PwC has sealed a three-year sponsorship deal with the City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra (CBSO).

The support was announced as the CBSO bid farewell to its music director Andris Nelsons.

PwC partners and clients gathered at Mr Nelsons’ final concert with the CBSO at Symphony Hall on June 18, to celebrate the success of the orchestra under his baton and to mark the beginning of the new partnership.

Mark Smith, regional chairman of PwC in the Midlands, said: “PwC is committed to supporting a range of charities, including those in the arts sector.

“With funding under so much pressure, it’s vital for the corporate sector to support our arts community to ensure that organisations like the CBSO continue to thrive.

“They provide important cultural offerings to many people, they educate and nurture future talent, and bring economic benefits to the region.

“The CBSO is not only a world-class orchestra showcasing artistic excellence to the rest of the world, it also delivers a crucial educational and community programme.

“Working with schools and community groups across the region, CBSO musicians provide creative and exciting ways for children and adults to benefit by engaging with music.

“I hope our support over the coming years will contribute to the continued work of this exceptional orchestra.”

Stephen Maddock, CBSO chief executive, said: “We are extremely pleased to have PwC on board with us as a partner for the next three seasons.

“We are fortunate that the CBSO has been supported by the public purse for a long time, but with funding pressures becoming ever more acute, we could not exist without the generous support from corporate partners, private donors and other funders.

“We hope that PwC will see many benefits from their support, which will enable us to continue contributing to the region’s cultural life, as well as supporting our work with schools, universities and communities.

“We also hope they enjoy our new season, which starts in September, and offers something for everyone, whether regular concert-goers or those just discovering the pleasures that orchestral music can bring.”