Prom director David Pickard says: ‘There is no other classical music festival in the world to match the range and breadth of the BBC Proms. It is the place where so many discover orchestral music for the first time – whether through a cornerstone of the classical repertoire, ground-breaking new work or collaborations with some of today’s most exciting artists.’
Here, we tell you all you need to know about the annual bonanza.
What Even Is The Proms?
The Proms is an annual eight-week classical music festival that has existed in one shape or form since 1895. Proms is short for ‘promenade concert’; the idea initially was that the event was a very democratic one, with the audience being free to stroll around as they absorbed the ‘serious music’. So intent were the organisers on bringing music to the masses that smoking and drinking and even lying down were permitted.
What Is It Like Today?
To get a taste of the Proms in this day and age, have a look at last year’s highlights here.
Who Will We Hear From?
This Proms season promises works from classic composers like Vivaldi, Beethoven, Stravinsky, Grieg and Holst as well as plenty of exciting new commissions. There will be lots to whet the appetites of children and families, too. Find full listings here.
When Is It?
The BBC Proms 2023 starts tonight, with Prom 1: First Night of the Proms, which will include a series of Nordic pieces. Every night thereafter will offer a different delight. It all winds up on Saturday September 9, with Prom 71: Last Night of the Proms, which will showcase patriotic favourites like Jerusalem, Land of Hope and Glory and Rule Britannia.
Where Do The Proms Take Place?
This year, there will be 84 shows, involving over 3,000 musicians. Most of the events will take place at the flagship venue, the Royal Albert Hall.
What If I Haven’t Bought A Ticket?
Tickets are still available for some events. All Proms will be broadcast live on BBC Radio Three and will be available on BBC Sounds for a year. A number will be shown on BBC TV, with catch-up options on iPlayer.
What Must I Be Sure Not To Miss?
We predict that Prom 11: Horrible Histories’ ‘Orrible Opera at 6pm on Saturday July 22 will be a particular highlight. This will be a typically brilliant and irreverent introduction to opera for young people.
By Becky Ladenburg
July 2023
