BBC Proms 2025: A Grand Opening and Historic Firsts
The BBC Proms 2025 commenced on July 18, marking the beginning of an eight-week celebration of classical music. The First Night featured the BBC Symphony Orchestra under the baton of Chief Conductor Sakari Oramo, with violinist Lisa Batiashvili delivering a captivating performance of Sibelius's Violin Concerto. The program also included the world premiere of Errollyn Wallen's The Elements and Vaughan Williams's Sancta Civitas, commemorating its centenary. (bbc.com)
This season introduces several groundbreaking events. Notably, the Proms will host its first overnight concert in over four decades. The 'Dark Till Dawn Prom', curated by organist Anna Lapwood, promises a magical and intimate experience at the Royal Albert Hall. (bbc.com)
Another highlight is the 'Traitors Prom', presented by Claudia Winkleman. This concert will explore themes of intrigue and betrayal in classical music, featuring new arrangements of music from the hit TV show The Traitors, scored by Sam Watts. (the-independent.com)
The season also celebrates significant anniversaries, including the 50th anniversary of Dmitri Shostakovich's death, with performances of five of his symphonies. Additionally, the Proms will commemorate the 200th birthday of Johann Strauss II with a vibrant program featuring his works. (bbc.com)
A historic milestone will be achieved during the Last Night of the Proms, as Elim Chan becomes the first woman to conduct this iconic event. She will lead the BBC Symphony Orchestra and Chorus, with soloists Alison Balsom and Louise Alder. The program includes world premieres by composers Camille Pépin and Rachel Portman, the latter being the first woman to win an Academy Award for Best Original Score. (theguardian.com)
The 2025 Proms season promises a rich and diverse array of performances, blending traditional repertoire with innovative programming, and setting new precedents in the classical music world.