ROCK god Bev Bevan cannot wait to return to the Symphony Hall stage to perform at a Fusion of Music and Dance in May.

The former Electric Light Orchestra drummer, who this year will be inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in America, is the patron of the charity concert which the News is backing.

The 72-year-old musician has been patron of the charity, which was founded by Halesowen's Leigh Perry, for five years and is looking forward to the concert on Sunday, May 7.

He said: "I've done three concerts with Leigh now, and I love the Birmingham Symphony Hall, it is one of my favourite venues, I often watch acts there.

"The last concert I was really busy and only ended up playing percussion but this time I plan to play a few numbers and get involved in the rehearsals beforehand."

The former Move and Black Sabbath member enjoys seeing the pupils of the Dorridge Music School performing at the iconic venue.

He said: "It is such a great family day, the look of wonder on the children's faces when they come on stage in front of thousands of people is incredible to see.

"There are so many amateur musicians who are used to playing at village halls and schools and they also get the chance to perform at such a special venue.

"It is so impressive seeing Leigh Perry put on the concert, she has such confidence as a performer and is in charge of all the performers on the night."

This year’s line-up includes Britain’s Got Talent finalists Beau Dermott and Richard and Adam, rising opera starlet Faith Tucker and the Town Hall Gospel Choir, among many others.

The concert is raising money for the Birmingham Dogs Home and the MS Society as well as raising awareness for Delete Blood Cancer, urging members of the public to become donors, in memory of DMS pupil Riya Dandekar who tragically died.

2017 will be a busy year for Bev Bevan.

"I am just finalising the details of a 60 or 70 date tour with Jasper Carrott which will see us playing up and down the country, but I made sure I kept the date free for A Fusion of Music and Dance.

Another big date in the calendar is the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Induction on Friday, April 7, in New York.

But Bev is still not sure whether he will attend, along with other ELO founders Roy Wood, Richard Tandy and Jeff Lynne.

"I am supposed to be playing a gig in Stafford that night," he said.

"But I would like to be involved, Jeff has got his own ELO band going now but I am delighted to be inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, it is a real honour."

Founder of A Fusion of Music and Dance Leigh Perry said: "I'm truly honoured that Bev agreed to become the patron of DMS five years ago and will once again be with me and the performers at symphony hall.  

"He will be playing drums and percussion as well as co-hosting the event."

She added: "It wouldn't be the same without him . He is a great support to me and the school and shares our love of both music and supporting charities." 

Halesowen News:

Bev and Leigh, this year the money goes to Birmingham Dogs Home

"We are all looking forward to having him play at the Symphony Hall with us again in May."

Tickets are still on sale for the concert, for more information call DMS on 01564 772831, email dorridgemusicschool@hotmail.com or visit website www.dmsfusionlive.com.