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22-Nov-2013
BBC Proms - 2013 Season: Doctor Who at the Proms: Encore
In conjunction with BBC Three's screening of 'Doctor Who at the Proms', Red Button offers fans the chance to see previously unscreened highlights from the concerts. With appearances by Matt Smith, Jenna Coleman, Madame Vastra and Strax. Featuring three pieces by Doctor Who's resident maestro, Murray Gold: The Companions Suite (Rose, Martha, Donna & Amy), The Final Chapter of Amelia Pond (from Angels Take Manhattan) and Vale Decem (a tribute to the 11 Doctors) .
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12-Sep-2013
BBC Proms - 2013 Season: Proms Plus Late: Part 8
Arts feature.
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08-Sep-2013
BBC Proms - 2013 Season: Proms Interval
Live from the Royal Albert Hall, Sean Rafferty and Suzy Klein look back at some of the festival highlights, and reporter Georgia Mann meets some of the Prommers. ENDS.
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08-Sep-2013
BBC Proms - 2013 Season: Prom 75: Prom 75 (part 2): Last Night of the Proms
The Last Night of the Proms live from the Royal Albert Hall, with the BBC Symphony Orchestra and Nigel Kennedy The Last Night begins with a celebratory new work by Anna Clyne and includes a rare performance of Britten's 1967 overture for chorus and orchestra, The Building of The House, a touch of Broadway magic and the sound of a glass ceiling being broken as Marin Alsop takes charge of her first Last Night. Nigel Kennedy and Joyce DiDonato are the star soloists in a programme that picks up sea-faring themes from Bantock and George Lloyd and includes a transatlantic flavour. Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Sean Rafferty and Suzy Klein Anna Clyne: Masquerade (BBC commission: world premiere) Wagner: The Mastersingers of Nuremberg - overture Bernstein: Chichester Psalms Vaughan Williams: The Lark Ascending Britten: The Building of the House Bernstein: Candide - 'Make Our Garden Grow' Massenet: Chérubin - 'Je suis gris! je suis ivre!' Handel: Xerxes - 'Frondi tenere e belle ... Ombra mai fù' Rossini: La donna del lago - 'Tanti affetti in tal momento!' 9:00pm Interval 9:20pm Bernstein: Candide - overture Verdi: Nabucco - 'Va, pensiero' (Chorus of the Hebrew Slaves) Arlen: Over the Rainbow Monti: Csárdás Trad. arr. Chris Hazell: Londonderry Air (Danny Boy) Rodgers: Carousel - 'You'll never walk alone' Bantock: The Sea Reivers Lloyd: HMS Trinidad March Arne: Rule, Britannia! Elgar: Pomp and Circumstance March No. 1 in D major ('Land of Hope and Glory') Parry orch. Elgar: Jerusalem Britten: National Anthem Joyce DiDonato (mezzo-soprano) Nigel Kennedy (violin) BBC Symphony Chorus BBC Symphony Orchestra Marin Alsop (conductor).
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08-Sep-2013
BBC Proms - 2013 Season: Prom 75: Prom 75 (part 1): Last Night of the Proms
The Last Night of the Proms live from the Royal Albert Hall, with the BBC Symphony Orchestra and Nigel Kennedy The Last Night begins with a celebratory new work by Anna Clyne and includes a rare performance of Britten's 1967 overture for chorus and orchestra, The Building of The House, a touch of Broadway magic and the sound of a glass ceiling being broken as Marin Alsop takes charge of her first Last Night. Nigel Kennedy and Joyce DiDonato are the star soloists in a programme that picks up sea-faring themes from Bantock and George Lloyd and includes a transatlantic flavour. Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Sean Rafferty and Suzy Klein Anna Clyne: Masquerade (BBC commission: world premiere) Wagner: The Mastersingers of Nuremberg - overture Bernstein: Chichester Psalms Vaughan Williams: The Lark Ascending Britten: The Building of the House Bernstein: Candide - 'Make Our Garden Grow' Massenet: Chérubin - 'Je suis gris! je suis ivre!' Handel: Xerxes - 'Frondi tenere e belle ... Ombra mai fù' Rossini: La donna del lago - 'Tanti affetti in tal momento!' 9:00pm Interval 9:20pm Bernstein: Candide - overture Verdi: Nabucco - 'Va, pensiero' (Chorus of the Hebrew Slaves) Arlen: Over the Rainbow Monti: Csárdás Trad. arr. Chris Hazell: Londonderry Air (Danny Boy) Rodgers: Carousel - 'You'll never walk alone' Bantock: The Sea Reivers Lloyd: HMS Trinidad March Arne: Rule, Britannia! Elgar: Pomp and Circumstance March No. 1 in D major ('Land of Hope and Glory') Parry orch. Elgar: Jerusalem Britten: National Anthem Joyce DiDonato (mezzo-soprano) Nigel Kennedy (violin) BBC Symphony Chorus BBC Symphony Orchestra Marin Alsop (conductor).
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08-Sep-2013
BBC Proms - BBC Proms in the Park: BBC Proms in the Park 2013
BBC Proms in the Park live from London's Hyde Park - the BBC Concert Orchestra conducted by Richard Balcombe presented by Sir Terry Wogan with special guests . London's Hyde Park - once the hunting ground of King Henry VIII and tonight host once again to the 40,000 crowd who gather to celebrate BBC Proms in the Park and the finale to the Last Night of the Proms. Time to re-kindle the feelgood factor and wave your flag to Elgar's Land of Hope and Glory, Rule Britannia and Parry's Jerusalem. As ever the BBC Concert Orchestra are on the Hyde Park stage to accompany special guests - operatic tenor Joseph Calleja; Strictly Come Dancing favourites Erin Boag and Anton du Beke; housewife gigastar Dame Edna Everage and pop legend Bryan Ferry. Also making a guest appearance violinist Nigel Kennedy hot foots it from his appearance at the Last Night of the Proms in the Royal Albert Hall to play for the park prommers. Bryan Ferry sings a greatest hits set with the 80 piece BBC Concert Orchestra including - Reason or Rhyme; Let's Stick Together; Love is the Drug; Jealous Guy and A Hard Rain's Gonna Fall. The hall may have the first woman to conduct the Last Night of the Proms in the shape of Marin Alsop but the park has the first housewife gigastar to lead the finale singalong. Yes, Edna May Everage - once just an average Australian housewife from Moonee Ponds - now a Dame of the British Empire and friend and confidente to aristocracy, prime ministers and presidents. With a flag in one hand and a bunch of gladdies in the other - Dame Edna leads the Royal Choral Society and the park revellers in the grand finale to the famous Last Night.
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07-Sep-2013
BBC Proms - 2013 Season: Prom 74: Prom 74 (part 2): Vienna Philharmonic
Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Donald Macleod Lorin Maazel directs Bruckner's mighty Symphony no 8, a work composed as a conscious tribute to three mighty Austro-German orchestral masters. Alongside it, music by J S Bach for Bruckner's own instrument - the organ. J. S. Bach arr. Guilmant: Cantata 'Wir danken dir, Gott, wir danken dir', BWV 29 - Sinfonia J. S. Bach: Chorale Prelude 'Allein Gott in der Höh' sie Ehr', BWV 662 J. S. Bach: Chorale Prelude 'Komm, Gott Schöpfer, heiliger Geist', BWV 667 J. S. Bach: Chorale Prelude 'Vor deinem Thron tret' ich hiermit', BWV 668 J. S. Bach: Prelude and Fugue in A minor, BWV 543 8.00pm Interval 8.25pm Bruckner: Symphony No. 8 in C minor (1890 version, ed. Nowak) Klaus Sonnleitner (organ) Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra Lorin Maazel (conductor) Lorin Maazel directs Bruckner's mighty Symphony no 8, a work composed as a conscious tribute to the three great Austro-German masters whose legacy Bruckner most admired: Beethoven, Schubert and Wagner. Before it, music for organ by J S Bach - a reminder both that Bruckner was himself an accomplished organist, and also that he himself gave six recitals on the Albert Hall organ in 1871. Tonight's soloist - the distinguished performer Klaus Sonnleitner - is present-day organist at St Florian's Abbey, Linz, where Bruckner himself was organist almost 160 years ago.
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07-Sep-2013
BBC Proms - 2013 Season: Prom 74: Prom 74 (part 1): Vienna Philharmonic
Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Donald Macleod Lorin Maazel directs Bruckner's mighty Symphony no 8, a work composed as a conscious tribute to three mighty Austro-German orchestral masters. Alongside it, music by J S Bach for Bruckner's own instrument - the organ. J. S. Bach arr. Guilmant: Cantata 'Wir danken dir, Gott, wir danken dir', BWV 29 - Sinfonia J. S. Bach: Chorale Prelude 'Allein Gott in der Höh' sie Ehr', BWV 662 J. S. Bach: Chorale Prelude 'Komm, Gott Schöpfer, heiliger Geist', BWV 667 J. S. Bach: Chorale Prelude 'Vor deinem Thron tret' ich hiermit', BWV 668 J. S. Bach: Prelude and Fugue in A minor, BWV 543 8.00pm Interval 8.25pm Bruckner: Symphony No. 8 in C minor (1890 version, ed. Nowak) Klaus Sonnleitner (organ) Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra Lorin Maazel (conductor) Lorin Maazel directs Bruckner's mighty Symphony no 8, a work composed as a conscious tribute to the three great Austro-German masters whose legacy Bruckner most admired: Beethoven, Schubert and Wagner. Before it, music for organ by J S Bach - a reminder both that Bruckner was himself an accomplished organist, and also that he himself gave six recitals on the Albert Hall organ in 1871. Tonight's soloist - the distinguished performer Klaus Sonnleitner - is present-day organist at St Florian's Abbey, Linz, where Bruckner himself was organist almost 160 years ago.
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06-Sep-2013
BBC Proms - 2013 Season: Prom 73: Imogen Cooper and Paul Lewis
Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Catherine Bott Imogen Cooper and Paul Lewis live at the BBC Proms with two great works by Schubert Schubert: Piano Sonata in C minor, D958 Schubert: Piano Sonata in C major, D812 'Grand Duo' Pianists Imogen Cooper and Paul Lewis return for the final Late Night Prom of the festival. Cooper plays Schubert's late, great Piano Sonata in C minor, its scherzo still informed by the Rossinian joie de vivre of the early symphonies, the surrounding movements infused with the sorrow and resignation of the song-cycles Winterreise and Schwanengesang. Published posthumously, the symphonically conceived Grand Duo dates from the summer of 1824 when the composer was engaged as music master to Marie and Caroline Esterhazy on the family's Slovakian estate. Imogen Cooper (piano) Paul Lewis (piano).
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06-Sep-2013
BBC Proms - 2013 Season: Prom 72: Prom 72 (part 2): Verdi & Tchaikovsky
Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Penny Gore The Orchestra Sinfonica di Milano Giuseppe Verdi and Xian Zhang at the BBC Proms perform Tchaikovsky's Manfred Symphony, and are joined by Joseph Calleja for arias by Verdi Verdi: La forza del destino - overture Verdi: Attila - 'O dolore! ed io vivea' Verdi: I vespri siciliani - 'À toi que j'ai chérie' Verdi: La traviata - Prelude (Act 1) Verdi: Simon Boccanegra - 'O inferno! ... Sento avvampar nell'anima' Verdi: Aida - Triumphal March (Act 2) Verdi: Luisa Miller - 'O! fede negar potessi ... Quando le sere al placido' Verdi: Rigoletto - 'La donna è mobile' 7.55pm Interval 8.15pm Tchaikovsky: Manfred Joseph Calleja (tenor) Orchestra Sinfonica di Milano Giuseppe Verdi Xian Zhang (conductor) The Orchestra Sinfonia di Milano Giuseppe Verdi under Chinese-American conductor Xian Zhang complete the season's Tchaikovsky Symphony series with his Byronic Manfred Symphony. And Maltese tenor Joseph Calleja warms up for the Last Night of the Proms by joining the orchestra for overtures and arias by Verdi.
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06-Sep-2013
BBC Proms - 2013 Season: Proms Plus Intro: Verdi's Orchestral Writing, Tchaikovsky's Manfred Symphony
Ian Skelly hosts a talk on Verdi's orchestral writing and Tchaikovsky's Manfred Symphony. Among his guests is the critic, writer and Oxford Univeristy Professor of English Literature Jonathan Bate and violinist Claire Holden, who recently performed in a production of Verdi's Falstaff with the Orchestra of the Age of Enlightenment.
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06-Sep-2013
BBC Proms - 2013 Season: Prom 72: Prom 72 (part 1): Verdi & Tchaikovsky
Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Penny Gore The Orchestra Sinfonica di Milano Giuseppe Verdi and Xian Zhang at the BBC Proms perform Tchaikovsky's Manfred Symphony, and are joined by Joseph Calleja for arias by Verdi Verdi: La forza del destino - overture Verdi: Attila - 'O dolore! ed io vivea' Verdi: I vespri siciliani - 'À toi que j'ai chérie' Verdi: La traviata - Prelude (Act 1) Verdi: Simon Boccanegra - 'O inferno! ... Sento avvampar nell'anima' Verdi: Aida - Triumphal March (Act 2) Verdi: Luisa Miller - 'O! fede negar potessi ... Quando le sere al placido' Verdi: Rigoletto - 'La donna è mobile' 7.55pm Interval 8.15pm Tchaikovsky: Manfred Joseph Calleja (tenor) Orchestra Sinfonica di Milano Giuseppe Verdi Xian Zhang (conductor) The Orchestra Sinfonia di Milano Giuseppe Verdi under Chinese-American conductor Xian Zhang complete the season's Tchaikovsky Symphony series with his Byronic Manfred Symphony. And Maltese tenor Joseph Calleja warms up for the Last Night of the Proms by joining the orchestra for overtures and arias by Verdi.
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06-Sep-2013
BBC Proms - 2013 Season: Prom 71: Prom 71 (part 2): Gorecki, Vaughan Williams & Tchaikovsky
Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Suzy Klein The BBC Symphony Orchestra & Osmo Vänskä live at the BBC Proms. Gorecki's famous 3rd Symphony, Vaughan Williams' Four Last Songs, & Tchaikovsky's great and final 6th Symphony. A series of farewells as Osmo Vänskä conducts the BBC Symphony Orchestra in a programme concluding the season's focus on Polish music and premiering Anthony Payne's orchestration of Vaughan Williams's Four Last Songs. BBC Radio 3 New Generation Artists Ruby Hughes and Jennifer Johnston are the soloists, Hughes singing the three Polish texts of Henryk Górecki's 'Symphony of Sorrowful Songs', Johnston singing Procris, Menelaus, Tired and Hands, Eyes and Heart in the Vaughan Williams. Tchaikovsky's 'Pathétique' is the penultimate instalment of this summer's cycle of his symphonies. Górecki: Symphony No. 3, 'Symphony of Sorrowful Songs' 8.30pm Interval 8.50pm Vaughan Williams Orch. A. Payne: Four Last Songs (BBC commission: world premiere) Tchaikovsky: Symphony No. 6 in B minor, 'Pathétique' Ruby Hughes (soprano) Jennifer Johnston (mezzo-soprano) BBC Symphony Orchestra Osmo Vänskä (conductor).
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06-Sep-2013
BBC Proms - 2013 Season: Prom 71: Prom 71 (part 1): Gorecki, Vaughan Williams & Tchaikovsky
Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Suzy Klein The BBC Symphony Orchestra & Osmo Vänskä live at the BBC Proms. Gorecki's famous 3rd Symphony, Vaughan Williams' Four Last Songs, & Tchaikovsky's great and final 6th Symphony. A series of farewells as Osmo Vänskä conducts the BBC Symphony Orchestra in a programme concluding the season's focus on Polish music and premiering Anthony Payne's orchestration of Vaughan Williams's Four Last Songs. BBC Radio 3 New Generation Artists Ruby Hughes and Jennifer Johnston are the soloists, Hughes singing the three Polish texts of Henryk Górecki's 'Symphony of Sorrowful Songs', Johnston singing Procris, Menelaus, Tired and Hands, Eyes and Heart in the Vaughan Williams. Tchaikovsky's 'Pathétique' is the penultimate instalment of this summer's cycle of his symphonies. Górecki: Symphony No. 3, 'Symphony of Sorrowful Songs' 8.30pm Interval 8.50pm Vaughan Williams Orch. A. Payne: Four Last Songs (BBC commission: world premiere) Tchaikovsky: Symphony No. 6 in B minor, 'Pathétique' Ruby Hughes (soprano) Jennifer Johnston (mezzo-soprano) BBC Symphony Orchestra Osmo Vänskä (conductor).
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04-Sep-2013
BBC Proms - 2013 Season: Prom 70: Britten & Lloyd
The BBC Singers, the Choristers of the Temple Church and David Hill, live at the BBC Proms, perform Benjamin Britten's 'A Boy was Born', and George Lloyd's Requiem for Princess Diana. Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Christopher Cook Britten: A Boy was Born Lloyd: Requiem (London premiere) Iestyn Davies (countertenor) Greg Morris (organ) Choristers of the Temple Church BBC Singers David Hill (conductor) Benjamin Britten's masterly Christmas work 'A Boy was Born' is one of his earliest compositions - completed when he only 19 - but is nonetheless a classic of the modern choral repertoire. Cast in, for choral music, the highly unusual form of a theme and variations, it's laid out for choirs of adult and treble voices. Brilliantly scored for its vocal forces, it counts as one of the most original works in the entire choral canon. In tonight's performance, the Temple Church choristers are joined by the BBC Singers - the group which gave the premiere of the work in 1934. This centenary Proms tribute to Benjamin Britten is matched by one to another composer born 100 years ago this year: George Lloyd, whose Requiem was his final composition, composed in memory of Diana, Princess of Wales, and tonight receiving its London premiere.
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04-Sep-2013
BBC Proms - 2013 Season: Prom 69: Prom 69 (part 2): Beethoven & Bruckner
The Oslo Philharmonic Orchestra and Vasily Petrenko, live at the BBC Proms, play Bruckner's Fourth Symphony, and, with Christian Ihle Hadland, Beethoven's Second Piano Concerto. Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Andrew McGregor Beethoven: Piano Concerto No. 2 in B flat major 7.35pm Interval 7.55pm Bruckner: Symphony No. 4 in E flat major, 'Romantic' Christian Ihle Hadland (piano) Oslo Philharmonic Orchestra Vasily Petrenko (conductor) In their second Proms appearance this summer Vasily Petrenko and the Oslo Philharmonic explore the Romantic landscape and Schubertian echoes of Bruckner's Fourth Symphony. Repeatedly revised by the composer during his lifetime, the symphony opens with a radiant sunrise. Last heard playing Brahms with the Signum Quartet (PCM 7), Christian Ihle Hadland joins Petrenko and the orchestra for Beethoven's Second Piano Concerto, built on the Mozartian model but already pointing to the bold gestures of the composer's maturity.
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04-Sep-2013
BBC Proms - 2013 Season: Proms Plus Intro: Bruckner
Louise Fryer explores Bruckner, the man behind the music, the inspirations and influences that led to his Romantic Symphony, with expert Roderick Swanston. Recorded earlier at the Royal College of Music.
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03-Sep-2013
BBC Proms - 2013 Season: Proms Plus Late: Blue-Eyed Hawk and Charlotte Higgins
Georgia Mann presents a session of music, played by the Blue-Eyed Hawk, of Trinity Laban Conservatoire of Music and Drama, and poetry written and read by Charlotte Higgins. The Proms Plus Late event was recorded last week in the Elgar Room at the Royal Albert Hall.
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03-Sep-2013
BBC Proms - 2013 Season: Prom 68: Prom 68 (part 2): Tchaikovsky, Szymanowski & Rachmaninov
The Oslo Philharmonic Orchestra and Vasily Petrenko, live at the BBC Proms, play Tchaikovsky's First Symphony, Szymanowski's First Violin Concerto (with Baiba Skride as soloist) and Rachmaninov's Symphonic Dances. Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Andrew McGregor Tchaikovsky: Symphony No. 1 in G minor, 'Winter Daydreams' 8.10 pm Interval 8.35 Szymanowski: Violin Concerto No.1 Rachmaninov: Symphonic Dances Baiba Skride (violin) Oslo Philharmonic Orchestra Vasily Petrenko (conductor) Proms debut violinist Baiba Skride joins the Oslo Philharmonic and its new Chief Conductor, Vasily Petrenko, to continue the Proms focus on Polish music in their performance of Szymanowski's Violin Concerto No. 1, an opulent nocturnal fantasy from a composer enchanted by the sound-worlds of North Africa and the southern Mediterranean, and inspired by the 'amorous conflagration' of Tadeusz Micinski's poem 'May Night'. Tchaikovsky's youthful Symphony No. 1, 'Winter Daydreams', and Rachmaninov's nostalgic final work, the Symphonic Dances of 1940, frame the concerto in a programme rich with dreams.
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03-Sep-2013
BBC Proms - 2013 Season: Prom 68: Prom 68 (part 1): Tchaikovsky, Szymanowski & Rachmaninov
The Oslo Philharmonic Orchestra and Vasily Petrenko, live at the BBC Proms, play Tchaikovsky's First Symphony, Szymanowski's First Violin Concerto (with Baiba Skride as soloist) and Rachmaninov's Symphonic Dances. Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Andrew McGregor Tchaikovsky: Symphony No. 1 in G minor, 'Winter Daydreams' 8.10 pm Interval 8.35 Szymanowski: Violin Concerto No.1 Rachmaninov: Symphonic Dances Baiba Skride (violin) Oslo Philharmonic Orchestra Vasily Petrenko (conductor) Proms debut violinist Baiba Skride joins the Oslo Philharmonic and its new Chief Conductor, Vasily Petrenko, to continue the Proms focus on Polish music in their performance of Szymanowski's Violin Concerto No. 1, an opulent nocturnal fantasy from a composer enchanted by the sound-worlds of North Africa and the southern Mediterranean, and inspired by the 'amorous conflagration' of Tadeusz Micinski's poem 'May Night'. Tchaikovsky's youthful Symphony No. 1, 'Winter Daydreams', and Rachmaninov's nostalgic final work, the Symphonic Dances of 1940, frame the concerto in a programme rich with dreams.
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03-Sep-2013
BBC Proms - 2013 Season: Proms Chamber Music: PCM 8: 8. Dowland
Fretwork, Ian Bostridge and Elizabeth Kenny live at the BBC Proms explore the music, life and world of the great English Lutenist John Dowland, born 450 years ago this year. Live from Cadogan Hall, London Presented by Petroc Trelawny Dowland: The King of Denmark's Galliard Dowland: Can she excuse my wrongs (The Earl of Essex's Galliard) Dowland: Flow, my tears (Lachrimae antiquae) Dowland: My thoughts are winged with hopes (Sir John Souch's Galliard) Dowland: Farewell Fancy (Chromatic fantasia) Dowland: Sorrow, stay, lend true repentant tears Dowland: Come again, sweet love doth now invite Dowland: Mr John Langton's Pavan Dowland: I saw my lady weep Dowland: Lachrimæ Amantis Dowland: If my complaints could passions move (Captain Digorie Piper's Galliard) Dowland: Lachrimæ tristes Dowland: In darkness let me dwell Dowland: Shall I strive with words to move (Sir Henry Noel's Galliard) Fretwork Ian Bostridge (tenor) Elizabeth Kenny (lute) In a concert to mark his birth, 450 years ago, singer Ian Bostridge, lutenist Elizabeth Kenny and viol consort Fretwork explore the music of John Dowland. Courtier, composer, internationally famous performer and occasional spy, Dowland was described by a contemporary as someone "whose heavenly touch upon the lute doth ravish human sense". Today's concert explores both that ravishing music - in songs, dances and instrumental works - and also Dowland's world and life - through musical portraits of his friends, associates and employers. And it includes the song which became his musical calling-card, one of the best known vocal works of the 17th century, and which came to be seen as the epitome of English melancholy: 'Flow my tears'.
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02-Sep-2013
BBC Proms - 2013 Season: Prom 67: Prom 67 (part 2): Arvo Part, Britten, Berlioz & Saint-Saens
Arvo Pärt, Britten, Berlioz and Saint-Saëns performed by the Orchestre de Paris and Paavo Järvi live at the BBC Proms with Janine Jansen as soloist in Britten's Violin Concerto Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Martin Handley Pärt: Cantus in memoriam Benjamin Britten Britten: Violin Concerto 8.15pm Interval 8.35pm Berlioz: Overture 'Le corsaire' Saint-Saëns: Symphony No. 3 in C minor, 'Organ' Janine Jansen (violin) Thierry Escaich (organ) Orchestre de Paris Paavo Järvi (conductor) The Cantus in memoriam Benjamin Britten was written by Arvo Pärt in response to his sense of loss for a composer he had never met but whose music he describes as possessing the "unusual purity" he himself sought as a composer. Britten's own Violin Concerto was written during the composer's war-time years in New York, "I feel so deeply about this piece...one experiences the incredible strength of it" says tonight's soloist Janine Jansen. In the second half of the concert Paavo Järvi leads his Orchestre de Paris in two French works: firstly the Mediterranean swagger of Berlioz's overture 'Le corsaire' and then the weight of full orchestra and organ in Saint-Saëns 'Third Symphony' which concludes a concert that journeys from Estonian introspection to Gallic extrovert display. An edited version of this Prom will be broadcast on Friday 6th September at 2pm.
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02-Sep-2013
BBC Proms - 2013 Season: Proms Plus Intro: Britten 100
Martin Handley talks to Paul Kildea about Britten and his place in 20th-century music. Recorded earlier at the Royal College of Music.
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02-Sep-2013
BBC Proms - 2013 Season: Prom 66: Prom 66 (part 2): Family Matinee: The Big Proms Bear Hunt
The Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra, the Liverpool Philharmonic Children's Choirs, In Harmony Liverpool, all under conductor Matthew Coorey combine forces with storyteller Michael Rosen and illustrator Tony Ross, live at the BBC Proms, in The Big Proms Bear Hunt, a family matinee including music by Mussorgsky, Grieg and Stravinsky. Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Louise Fryer John Adams: Short Ride in a Fast Machine Jonathan Willcocks: Meet the Orchestra Ian Stephens: We're going on a bear hunt Klaus Badelt arr. Stephens: Pirates of the Caribbean Alan Menken arr. Stephens: Under the Sea Villa-Lobos: Little train of the Caipira (Bachianas Brasileiras No. 2) Humperdinck: Hansel and Gretel - Evening Prayer Mussorgsky: Great Gate of Kiev 4.25pm Interval 4.45pm Mussorgsky: Great Gate of Kiev Grieg: 'In the Hall of the Mountain' King from Peer Gynt Shostakovich: A Spin through Moscow (Cheryomushki) Tchaikovsky: The Nutcracker - Trepak Arturo Marquez: Danzon No. 2 - excerpt Britten: Nocturne from Matinées Musicales Elgar: The Wild Bears, from "The Wand of Youth, Suite No.2" Ian Stephens: The "scramble back home" music Stravinsky: The Firebird - Berceuse and Finale Michael Rosen (storyteller) Tony Ross (illustrator) In Harmony Liverpool Liverpool Philharmonic Children's Choirs Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra Matthew Coorey (conductor).
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02-Sep-2013
BBC Proms - 2013 Season: Prom 66: Prom 66 (part 1): Family Matinee: The Big Proms Bear Hunt
The Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra, the Liverpool Philharmonic Children's Choirs, In Harmony Liverpool, all under conductor Matthew Coorey combine forces with storyteller Michael Rosen and illustrator Tony Ross, live at the BBC Proms, in The Big Proms Bear Hunt, a family matinee including music by Mussorgsky, Grieg and Stravinsky. Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Louise Fryer John Adams: Short Ride in a Fast Machine Jonathan Willcocks: Meet the Orchestra Ian Stephens: We're going on a bear hunt Klaus Badelt arr. Stephens: Pirates of the Caribbean Alan Menken arr. Stephens: Under the Sea Villa-Lobos: Little train of the Caipira (Bachianas Brasileiras No. 2) Humperdinck: Hansel and Gretel - Evening Prayer Mussorgsky: Great Gate of Kiev 4.25pm Interval 4.45pm Mussorgsky: Great Gate of Kiev Grieg: 'In the Hall of the Mountain' King from Peer Gynt Shostakovich: A Spin through Moscow (Cheryomushki) Tchaikovsky: The Nutcracker - Trepak Arturo Marquez: Danzon No. 2 - excerpt Britten: Nocturne from Matinées Musicales Elgar: The Wild Bears, from "The Wand of Youth, Suite No.2" Ian Stephens: The "scramble back home" music Stravinsky: The Firebird - Berceuse and Finale Michael Rosen (storyteller) Tony Ross (illustrator) In Harmony Liverpool Liverpool Philharmonic Children's Choirs Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra Matthew Coorey (conductor).
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01-Sep-2013
BBC Proms - 2013 Season: Prom 65: Prom 65 (part 2): Film Music Prom
Film music from British war films dominate the first half including Walton's original music for 'Battle of Britain'. Part 2 is given over to music with a space connection including the UK premiere of music from the latest Star Trek. Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Petroc Trelawny Alwyn: The True Glory - March Walton: Suite - Battle of Britain Richard Rodney Bennett: Lady Caroline Lamb - Elegy Lucas: Ice Cold in Alex - March Addinsell: Warsaw Concerto (from 'Dangerous Moonlight') 8.25 Interval 8.50 Strauss: Also sprach Zarathustra - opening Ligeti: Atmosphères (excerpt) Johann Strauss II: By the Beautiful Blue Danube - waltz (excerpt) M. Giacchino: Suite from Star Trek: Into Darkness UK premiere David Arnold: Independence Day - closing title Jerry Goldsmith: Alien - closing title John Williams: Star Wars Suite Valentina Lisitsa (piano) Lawrence Power (viola) BBC Concert Orchestra Keith Lockhart (conductor).
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01-Sep-2013
BBC Proms - 2013 Season: Proms Plus Literary: The Sound of Outer Space
Capturing the sound of dark matter, comets and distant planets is one of the toughest tasks a film composer can face. Matthew Sweet talks to composers Anna Meredith and Miguel Mera about the ways in which film composers have met the challenge. Recorded in front of an audience at the Royal College of Music as part of this summer's Proms Plus events.
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01-Sep-2013
BBC Proms - 2013 Season: Prom 65: Prom 65 (part 1): Film Music Prom
Film music from British war films dominate the first half including Walton's original music for 'Battle of Britain'. Part 2 is given over to music with a space connection including the UK premiere of music from the latest Star Trek. Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Petroc Trelawny Alwyn: The True Glory - March Walton: Suite - Battle of Britain Richard Rodney Bennett: Lady Caroline Lamb - Elegy Lucas: Ice Cold in Alex - March Addinsell: Warsaw Concerto (from 'Dangerous Moonlight') 8.25 Interval 8.50 Strauss: Also sprach Zarathustra - opening Ligeti: Atmosphères (excerpt) Johann Strauss II: By the Beautiful Blue Danube - waltz (excerpt) M. Giacchino: Suite from Star Trek: Into Darkness UK premiere David Arnold: Independence Day - closing title Jerry Goldsmith: Alien - closing title John Williams: Star Wars Suite Valentina Lisitsa (piano) Lawrence Power (viola) BBC Concert Orchestra Keith Lockhart (conductor).
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01-Sep-2013
BBC Proms - 2013 Season: Proms Saturday Matinees: PSM: 5. Camerata Nordica
Live from Cadogan Hall Presented by Clemency Burton-Hill String music by Britten, Tippet and Walton performed by the Camerata Nordica and Terje Tønnesen live at the BBC Proms. Britten: Simple Symphony Tippett: Little Music for strings Britten: Elegy for strings (world premiere) Britten: Lachrymae Walton: Sonata for strings Catherine Bullock (viola) Terje Tønnesen (violin/director) Camerata Nordica The Proms focus on Britten and contemporaries continues with the world premiere of his Elegy for strings. Written six years before the Simple Symphony, this early miniature is contrasted with works by Britten's contemporaries Tippett and Walton. Violinist Terje Tønnesen directs the Swedish ensemble Camerata Nordica in their Proms debut. They are joined by viola player Catherine Bullock who is the soloist in Britten's Lachrymae. An edited version of the Prom will be broadcast on Wednesday 4th September at 2pm.
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31-Aug-2013
BBC Proms - 2013 Season: Prom 64: Prom 64 (part 2): Bantock, Prokofiev, Sibelius & Strauss
Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Christopher Cook London Philharmonic Orchestra and Vladimir Jurowski live at the BBC Proms in music by Bantock, Prokofiev, Sibelius and Richard Strauss. Bantock: The Witch of Atlas Prokofiev: Piano Concerto No. 3 in C major 8:20pm Interval 8:40pm Sibelius: Pohjola's Daughter R Strauss: Also sprach Zarathustra Anika Vavic (piano) London Philharmonic Orchestra Vladimir Jurowski (conductor) Tonight's Prom traces the development of the tone-poem in music inspired by Nietzsche, Shelley and the Finnish epic, the Kalevala. The concert opens with Granville Bantock's 1902 tone-poem 'The Witch of Atlas', based on Shelley's eponymous poem. The Serbian-born pianist Anika Vavic joins the LPO, making her Proms debut in Prokofiev's virtuosic Piano Concerto No 3. The second half of the concert starts with Sibelius's dark fantasy 'Pohjola's Daughter', and concludes with the great sunrise of Richard Strauss's thrilling 'Also sprach Zarathustra'. This Prom will be repeated on Thursday 5th September at 2pm.
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31-Aug-2013
BBC Proms - 2013 Season: Prom 64: Prom 64 (part 1): Bantock, Prokofiev, Sibelius & Strauss
Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Christopher Cook London Philharmonic Orchestra and Vladimir Jurowski live at the BBC Proms in music by Bantock, Prokofiev, Sibelius and Richard Strauss. Bantock: The Witch of Atlas Prokofiev: Piano Concerto No. 3 in C major 8:20pm Interval 8:40pm Sibelius: Pohjola's Daughter R Strauss: Also sprach Zarathustra Anika Vavic (piano) London Philharmonic Orchestra Vladimir Jurowski (conductor) Tonight's Prom traces the development of the tone-poem in music inspired by Nietzsche, Shelley and the Finnish epic, the Kalevala. The concert opens with Granville Bantock's 1902 tone-poem 'The Witch of Atlas', based on Shelley's eponymous poem. The Serbian-born pianist Anika Vavic joins the LPO, making her Proms debut in Prokofiev's virtuosic Piano Concerto No 3. The second half of the concert starts with Sibelius's dark fantasy 'Pohjola's Daughter', and concludes with the great sunrise of Richard Strauss's thrilling 'Also sprach Zarathustra'. This Prom will be repeated on Thursday 5th September at 2pm.
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30-Aug-2013
BBC Proms - 2013 Season: Proms Plus Intro: Eotvos and Bruckner's Symphony No 7
Petroc Trelawny talks to Stephen Johnson about the music of Peter Eotvos, and Bruckner's 7th Symphony. Recorded earlier at the Royal College of Music.
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30-Aug-2013
BBC Proms - 2013 Season: Prom 63: Prom 63 (part 2): Mozart, Peter Eotvos and Bruckner
The Philharmonia Orchestra and Esa-Pekka Salonen live at the BBC Proms with the UK Premiere of Peter Eötvös's DoReMi, and Bruckner's mighty Symphony no.7 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Donald Macleod Mozart: Der Schauspieldirektor - Overture Peter Eötvös: DoReMi (UK premiere) 8:00pm Interval 8:20pm Bruckner: Symphony No. 7 in E major Midori (violin) Philharmonia Orchestra Esa-Pekka Salonen (conductor) Tonight's Prom features the UK premiere of Peter Eötvös's 2nd violin concerto titled DoReMi, and described by soloist Midori as "so rhapsodic and so individual". The Philharmonia under Esa-Pekka Salonen then perform Bruckner's tribute to Wagner, his mighty Symphony no.7, complete with Wagner tubas. This Prom will be repeated on Tuesday 3rd September at 2pm.
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30-Aug-2013
BBC Proms - 2013 Season: Prom 63: Prom 63 (part 1): Mozart, Peter Eotvos and Bruckner
The Philharmonia Orchestra and Esa-Pekka Salonen live at the BBC Proms with the UK Premiere of Peter Eötvös's DoReMi, and Bruckner's mighty Symphony no.7 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Donald Macleod Mozart: Der Schauspieldirektor - Overture Peter Eötvös: DoReMi (UK premiere) 8:00pm Interval 8:20pm Bruckner: Symphony No. 7 in E major Midori (violin) Philharmonia Orchestra Esa-Pekka Salonen (conductor) Tonight's Prom features the UK premiere of Peter Eötvös's 2nd violin concerto titled DoReMi, and described by soloist Midori as "so rhapsodic and so individual". The Philharmonia under Esa-Pekka Salonen then perform Bruckner's tribute to Wagner, his mighty Symphony no.7, complete with Wagner tubas. This Prom will be repeated on Tuesday 3rd September at 2pm.
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29-Aug-2013
BBC Proms - 2013 Season: Proms Composer Portraits: Charlotte Seither
Charlotte Seither discusses her commisssion with Andrew McGregor and introduces performances of her chamber works given by musicians from the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland.
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29-Aug-2013
BBC Proms - 2013 Season: Prom 62: A Celebration of Charlie Parker
The jazz pianist Django Bates hosts an evening with his Trio and the Norrbotten Big Band, in a celebration of the music of Charlie Parker. Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Jez Nelson Belovèd: Django Bates (piano); Petter Eldh (double bass); Peter Bruun (drums) Norrbotten Big Band Ashley Slater (guest vocalist) Music includes: Django Bates: The Study of Touch (UK Premiere) Plus versions of Charlie Parker classic tunes. Twenty-six years after first appearing at the BBC Proms with the big band Loose Tubes, Django Bates returns with his own trio in conjunction with the Grammy-nominated Norrbotten Big Band from Sweden. Charlie Parker is a beloved hero of Bates, and by presenting a celebration of this bebop pioneer, he adds his own spin to Parker classics, as well as including some of his own new material.
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29-Aug-2013
BBC Proms - 2013 Season: Prom 61: Prom 61 (part 2): Stravinsky, Brahms and Charlotte Seither
BBC Symphony Orchestra, BBC Singers and Josep Pons live at the BBC Proms. Stravinsky's Petrushka, a new work by Seither, and Frank Peter Zimmerman plays Brahms's much-loved Violin Concerto. Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Louise Fryer German composer Charlotte Seither adapts the words of the 17th-century poet Francesco de Lemene in a new work for the BBC Singers and the BBC Symphony Orchestra, using voices and syllables as spots of 'human colour'. Josep Pons conducts this world premiere alongside the 1947 version of Stravinsky's Petrushka, the a cappella motets Ave Maria and Pater noster, and the four-minute novelty Scherzo à la russe, written in Hollywood for the bandleader Paul Whiteman. Another German, the distinguished violinist Frank Peter Zimmermann, plays the concerto that Johannes Brahms composed for his great friend, Joseph Joachim. Stravinsky: Scherzo à la Russe Stravinsky: Ave Maria Stravinsky: Pater noster Brahms: Violin Concerto in D major 7:50pm Interval 8:10pm Charlotte Seither: Language of Leaving (BBC Commission: world premiere) Stravinsky: Petrushka (1947) Frank Peter Zimmermann (violin) BBC Singers BBC Symphony Orchestra Josep Pons (conductor) This Prom will be repeated on Monday 2nd September at 2pm.
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29-Aug-2013
BBC Proms - 2013 Season: Prom 61: Prom 61 (part 1): Stravinsky, Brahms and Charlotte Seither
BBC Symphony Orchestra, BBC Singers and Josep Pons live at the BBC Proms. Stravinsky's Petrushka, a new work by Seither, and Frank Peter Zimmerman plays Brahms's much-loved Violin Concerto. Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Louise Fryer German composer Charlotte Seither adapts the words of the 17th-century poet Francesco de Lemene in a new work for the BBC Singers and the BBC Symphony Orchestra, using voices and syllables as spots of 'human colour'. Josep Pons conducts this world premiere alongside the 1947 version of Stravinsky's Petrushka, the a cappella motets Ave Maria and Pater noster, and the four-minute novelty Scherzo à la russe, written in Hollywood for the bandleader Paul Whiteman. Another German, the distinguished violinist Frank Peter Zimmermann, plays the concerto that Johannes Brahms composed for his great friend, Joseph Joachim. Stravinsky: Scherzo à la Russe Stravinsky: Ave Maria Stravinsky: Pater noster Brahms: Violin Concerto in D major 7:50pm Interval 8:10pm Charlotte Seither: Language of Leaving (BBC Commission: world premiere) Stravinsky: Petrushka (1947) Frank Peter Zimmermann (violin) BBC Singers BBC Symphony Orchestra Josep Pons (conductor) This Prom will be repeated on Monday 2nd September at 2pm.
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28-Aug-2013
BBC Proms - 2013 Season: Prom 60: Prom 60 (part 2): Britten - Billy Budd
Britten 100 Glyndebourne Festival Opera and Andrew Davis live at the BBC Proms. Jacques Imbrailo stars as Billy Budd, the doomed pure-hearted sailor caught between the predatory Claggart, and the weak Captain Vere. Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Martin Handley Britten: Billy Budd - Act 1 (two-act revised version; semi-staged) 8:20pm Interval 8:40pm Britten: Billy Budd - Act 2 Billy Budd ..... Jacques Imbrailo (baritone) Captain Vere ..... Mark Padmore (tenor) John Claggart ..... Brindley Sherratt (bass) Mr Redburn ..... Stephen Gadd (baritone) Mr Flint ..... David Soar (bass-baritone) Lieutenant Ratcliffe ..... Darren Jeffery (bass) Red Whiskers ..... Alasdair Elliott (tenor) Donald ..... John Moore (baritone) Dansker ..... Jeremy White (bass) The Novice ..... Peter Gijsbertsen (tenor) Squeak ..... Colin Judson (tenor) Bosun ..... Richard Mosley-Evans (baritone) First Mate ..... Michael Wallace (baritone) Second Mate ..... Benjamin Cahn (baritone) Glyndebourne Festival Opera London Philharmonic Orchestra Andrew Davis (conductor) Andrew Davis conducts the London Philharmonic and the cast of Glyndebourne Festival Opera's production of Billy Budd. Based on Herman Melville's novella, the opera tells the story of a young sailor who is persecuted by the predatory master-at-arms John Claggart. His only hope of salvation is Captain 'Stary' Vere who is too rule-bound to help him. Jacques Imbrailo sings the innocent Budd, with Brindley Sherratt and Mark Padmore as Claggart and Vere.
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28-Aug-2013
BBC Proms - 2013 Season: Proms Plus Literary: Britten 100: Billy Budd
D.H. Lawrence hailed Herman Melville's novella, Billy Budd, a masterpiece when it was first published in 1924. Then, in 1951, came Britten's opera, adapted from the book. The writers Philip Hoare and Jamila Gavin join Rana Mitter to explore the book's themes of good and evil, justice and the law and the actor Peter Marinker will be on hand to illustrate their remarks with readings from the book. Producer: Zahid Warley.
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28-Aug-2013
BBC Proms - 2013 Season: Prom 60: Prom 60 (part 1): Britten - Billy Budd
Britten 100 Glyndebourne Festival Opera and Andrew Davis live at the BBC Proms. Jacques Imbrailo stars as Billy Budd, the doomed pure-hearted sailor caught between the predatory Claggart, and the weak Captain Vere. Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Martin Handley Britten: Billy Budd - Act 1 (two-act revised version; semi-staged) 8:20pm Interval 8:40pm Britten: Billy Budd - Act 2 Billy Budd ..... Jacques Imbrailo (baritone) Captain Vere ..... Mark Padmore (tenor) John Claggart ..... Brindley Sherratt (bass) Mr Redburn ..... Stephen Gadd (baritone) Mr Flint ..... David Soar (bass-baritone) Lieutenant Ratcliffe ..... Darren Jeffery (bass) Red Whiskers ..... Alasdair Elliott (tenor) Donald ..... John Moore (baritone) Dansker ..... Jeremy White (bass) The Novice ..... Peter Gijsbertsen (tenor) Squeak ..... Colin Judson (tenor) Bosun ..... Richard Mosley-Evans (baritone) First Mate ..... Michael Wallace (baritone) Second Mate ..... Benjamin Cahn (baritone) Glyndebourne Festival Opera London Philharmonic Orchestra Andrew Davis (conductor) Andrew Davis conducts the London Philharmonic and the cast of Glyndebourne Festival Opera's production of Billy Budd. Based on Herman Melville's novella, the opera tells the story of a young sailor who is persecuted by the predatory master-at-arms John Claggart. His only hope of salvation is Captain 'Stary' Vere who is too rule-bound to help him. Jacques Imbrailo sings the innocent Budd, with Brindley Sherratt and Mark Padmore as Claggart and Vere.
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27-Aug-2013
BBC Proms - 2013 Season: Proms Plus Late: Emily Dankworth, Caleb Klaces
Georgia Mann introduces a session of jazz music performed by singer Emily Dankworth and her jazz quartet, from the Guildhall School of Music and Drama, and poetry read by Caleb Klaces.
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27-Aug-2013
BBC Proms - 2013 Season: Prom 59: Prom 59 (part 2): Hollywood Rhapsody Prom
The John Wilson Orchestra live at the BBC Proms in a celebration of the Hollywood film scores. Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Suzy Klein Newman: Street Scene Kaper: Confetti Raskin: Laura - New Suite Herrmann: Psycho Suite Herrmann: Salammbo Aria (Citizen Kane) Korngold: Robin Hood - Suite Moross: The Big Country 8:20pm Interval 8:40pm Steiner: Casablanca - Suite Various: Main Title - Song Medley Waxman: A Place in the Sun Rózsa: Ben Hur - Suite Venera Gimadieva (soprano) Matthew Ford (vocalist) Jane Monheit (vocalist) John Wilson Orchestra John Wilson (conductor) John Wilson and his orchestra return to the Proms in a celebration of the Hollywood film scores that Wilson describes as 'literally unsung' and a medley of theme songs (featuring distinguished vocalists) from otherwise non-musical movies. Connecticut-born child prodigy Alfred Newman's 'Street Scene', from How to Marry a Millionaire, contrasts with the music of Jewish émigrés Erich Korngold, Max Steiner and Franz Waxman, with suites from Korngold's swashbuckling score for Robin Hood, Steiner's nostalgic music for Casablanca and Waxman's brooding score for A Place in the Sun - all of them Academy Award-winners - making for a red-carpet event at the Royal Albert Hall.
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27-Aug-2013
BBC Proms - 2013 Season: Proms Plus Literary: Music and Cinema
From the very first days of silent film to the contemporary CGI blockbuster, music has always played a crucial role in cinema, guiding the audience throught the story, keeping their attention, fixing time and place. The film composer Debbie Wiseman and critic David Benedict discuss with Matthew Sweet the ways in which movie makers have created mood with music. Recorded in front of an audience at the Royal College of Music as part of this year's Proms Plus events.
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27-Aug-2013
BBC Proms - 2013 Season: Prom 59: Prom 59 (part 1): Hollywood Rhapsody Prom
The John Wilson Orchestra live at the BBC Proms in a celebration of the Hollywood film scores. Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Suzy Klein Newman: Street Scene Kaper: Confetti Raskin: Laura - New Suite Herrmann: Psycho Suite Herrmann: Salammbo Aria (Citizen Kane) Korngold: Robin Hood - Suite Moross: The Big Country 8:20pm Interval 8:40pm Steiner: Casablanca - Suite Various: Main Title - Song Medley Waxman: A Place in the Sun Rózsa: Ben Hur - Suite Venera Gimadieva (soprano) Matthew Ford (vocalist) Jane Monheit (vocalist) John Wilson Orchestra John Wilson (conductor) John Wilson and his orchestra return to the Proms in a celebration of the Hollywood film scores that Wilson describes as 'literally unsung' and a medley of theme songs (featuring distinguished vocalists) from otherwise non-musical movies. Connecticut-born child prodigy Alfred Newman's 'Street Scene', from How to Marry a Millionaire, contrasts with the music of Jewish émigrés Erich Korngold, Max Steiner and Franz Waxman, with suites from Korngold's swashbuckling score for Robin Hood, Steiner's nostalgic music for Casablanca and Waxman's brooding score for A Place in the Sun - all of them Academy Award-winners - making for a red-carpet event at the Royal Albert Hall.
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27-Aug-2013
BBC Proms - 2013 Season: Prom 58: Light Organ Prom
The annual Royal Albert Hall organ Prom this year sees the mighty Henry Willis instrument in a concert of light music. It's performed by the young British organist Richard Hills - who has an impeccable pedigree as a 'classical' organ player, but also a long-standing interest in the music of the theatre organ. His programme evokes the glory days of the instrument, in the mid twentieth century, with a selection of arrangements, original works and lollipops. Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Christopher Cook Richard Hills (organ).
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27-Aug-2013
BBC Proms - 2013 Season: Proms Chamber Music: PCM 7: 7. Maconchy and Brahms
From Cadogan Hall, London The Signum Quartet and Christian Ihle Hadland live at the BBC Proms with a quartet by Elizabeth Maconchy, and Brahms's evergreen Piano Quintet Presented by Petroc Trelawny Maconchy: String Quartet No. 3 Brahms: Piano Quintet in F minor Signum Quartet Christian Ihle Hadland (piano) Nearly 21 years after her death, Elizabeth Maconchy remains one of 20th-century Britain's most alluring forgotten voices. International in outlook, she wrote music of great lyricism and subtlety, closer to the soundworld of central Europe than the English musical establishment. Today Radio 3 New Generation Artists the Signum Quartet perform Maconchy's Bartok-influenced String Quartet No 3, before joining forces with fellow NGA, Norwegian pianist Christian Ihle Hadland, for Brahms's evergreen Piano Quintet.
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26-Aug-2013
BBC Proms - 2013 Season: Prom 57: Prom 57 (part 3): Wagner - Parsifal
Wagner 200 The Hallé and Mark Elder perform Wagner's final opera Parsifal live at the BBC Proms, with Lars Cleveman in the title role and Katarina Dalayman as Kundry. Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Andrew McGregor Wagner: Parsifal - Act 1 (concert performance, sung in German) 6:00pm Interval 1 7:00pm Wagner: Parsifal - Act 2 8:45pm Interval 2 9:20pm Wagner: Parsifal - Act 3 Parsifal ..... Lars Cleveman (tenor) Kundry ..... Katarina Dalayman (mezzo-soprano) Gurnemanz ..... John Tomlinson (bass) Amfortas ..... Detlef Roth(baritone) Klingsor ..... Tom Fox (bass) Titurel ..... Reinhard Hagen (bass) Voice from above ..... Madeleine Shaw (mezzo-soprano) Knights ..... Robert Murray (tenor); Andrew Greenan (bass) Flowermaidens ..... Elizabeth Cragg (soprano); Anita Watson (soprano); Sarah Castle (mezzo-soprano); Ana James (soprano); Anna Devin (soprano); Madeleine Shaw (mezzo-soprano) Squires ..... Sarah Castle (mezzo-soprano); Madeleine Shaw (mezzo-soprano); Joshua Ellicott (tenor); Andrew Rees (tenor) Trinity Boys Choir Royal Opera Chorus Hallé Youth Choir The Hallé Mark Elder (conductor) Sir Mark Elder, Music Director of the Hallé, conducts them in Parsifal, Wagner's final music drama, an exploration of the value of compassion. The Knights of the Holy Grail face devastation: the sorcerer Klingsor, whom they rejected, has dealt their King Amfortas a wound that never heals. Their only hope lies in a prophecy that their salvation could come through 'a pure fool, made wise by compassion' - is Parsifal the man?
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26-Aug-2013
BBC Proms - 2013 Season: Prom 57: Prom 57 (part 2): Wagner - Parsifal
Wagner 200 The Hallé and Mark Elder perform Wagner's final opera Parsifal live at the BBC Proms, with Lars Cleveman in the title role and Katarina Dalayman as Kundry. Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Andrew McGregor Wagner: Parsifal - Act 1 (concert performance, sung in German) 6:00pm Interval 1 7:00pm Wagner: Parsifal - Act 2 8:45pm Interval 2 9:20pm Wagner: Parsifal - Act 3 Parsifal ..... Lars Cleveman (tenor) Kundry ..... Katarina Dalayman (mezzo-soprano) Gurnemanz ..... John Tomlinson (bass) Amfortas ..... Detlef Roth(baritone) Klingsor ..... Tom Fox (bass) Titurel ..... Reinhard Hagen (bass) Voice from above ..... Madeleine Shaw (mezzo-soprano) Knights ..... Robert Murray (tenor); Andrew Greenan (bass) Flowermaidens ..... Elizabeth Cragg (soprano); Anita Watson (soprano); Sarah Castle (mezzo-soprano); Ana James (soprano); Anna Devin (soprano); Madeleine Shaw (mezzo-soprano) Squires ..... Sarah Castle (mezzo-soprano); Madeleine Shaw (mezzo-soprano); Joshua Ellicott (tenor); Andrew Rees (tenor) Trinity Boys Choir Royal Opera Chorus Hallé Youth Choir The Hallé Mark Elder (conductor) Sir Mark Elder, Music Director of the Hallé, conducts them in Parsifal, Wagner's final music drama, an exploration of the value of compassion. The Knights of the Holy Grail face devastation: the sorcerer Klingsor, whom they rejected, has dealt their King Amfortas a wound that never heals. Their only hope lies in a prophecy that their salvation could come through 'a pure fool, made wise by compassion' - is Parsifal the man?
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26-Aug-2013
BBC Proms - 2013 Season: Proms Plus Intro: Introduction to Parsifal
Martin Handley talks to Stephen Fry and Stephen Johnson about Wagner's epic and final opera, Parsifal.
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26-Aug-2013
BBC Proms - 2013 Season: Prom 57: Prom 57 (part 1): Wagner - Parsifal
Wagner 200 The Hallé and Mark Elder perform Wagner's final opera Parsifal live at the BBC Proms, with Lars Cleveman in the title role and Katarina Dalayman as Kundry. Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Andrew McGregor Wagner: Parsifal - Act 1 (concert performance, sung in German) 6:00pm Interval 1 7:00pm Wagner: Parsifal - Act 2 8:45pm Interval 2 9:20pm Wagner: Parsifal - Act 3 Parsifal ..... Lars Cleveman (tenor) Kundry ..... Katarina Dalayman (mezzo-soprano) Gurnemanz ..... John Tomlinson (bass) Amfortas ..... Detlef Roth(baritone) Klingsor ..... Tom Fox (bass) Titurel ..... Reinhard Hagen (bass) Voice from above ..... Madeleine Shaw (mezzo-soprano) Knights ..... Robert Murray (tenor); Andrew Greenan (bass) Flowermaidens ..... Elizabeth Cragg (soprano); Anita Watson (soprano); Sarah Castle (mezzo-soprano); Ana James (soprano); Anna Devin (soprano); Madeleine Shaw (mezzo-soprano) Squires ..... Sarah Castle (mezzo-soprano); Madeleine Shaw (mezzo-soprano); Joshua Ellicott (tenor); Andrew Rees (tenor) Trinity Boys Choir Royal Opera Chorus Hallé Youth Choir The Hallé Mark Elder (conductor) Sir Mark Elder, Music Director of the Hallé, conducts them in Parsifal, Wagner's final music drama, an exploration of the value of compassion. The Knights of the Holy Grail face devastation: the sorcerer Klingsor, whom they rejected, has dealt their King Amfortas a wound that never heals. Their only hope lies in a prophecy that their salvation could come through 'a pure fool, made wise by compassion' - is Parsifal the man?
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25-Aug-2013
BBC Proms - 2013 Season: Prom 56: Prom 56 (part 2): Gustav Mahler Jugendorchester
The Gustav Mahler Jugendorchester, conducted by Philippe Jordan, play Wagner's Rienzi, Shostakovich's 5th Symphony and Ravel's Piano Concerto in G, with Jean-Yves Thibaudet. Live from the Proms. Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Sara Mohr-Pietsch Wagner: Rienzi - Overture Ravel: Piano Concerto in G major 8:15pm Interval 8:35pm Shostakovich: Symphony No. 5 in D minor Jean-Yves Thibaudet (piano) Gustav Mahler Jugendorchester Philippe Jordan (conductor) Founded by Claudio Abbado in 1986, the pan-European Gustav Mahler Jugendorchester remains one of the most musically exciting and technically polished youth orchestras in the world. Tonight, Philippe Jordan directs the GMJO in the overture to Wagner's Rienzi and Shostakovich's Fifth Symphony, written in an atmosphere of intense scrutiny and artistic repression, after the public denouncement of his opera The Lady Macbeth of the Mtsensk District. Ravel's jazz-inflected Piano Concerto in G major completes the programme, with the flamboyant French pianist Jean-Yves Thibaudet as the soloist. This Prom will be repeated on Sunday 1st September at 2pm.
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25-Aug-2013
BBC Proms - 2013 Season: Prom 56: Prom 56 (part 1): Gustav Mahler Jugendorchester
The Gustav Mahler Jugendorchester, conducted by Philippe Jordan, play Wagner's Rienzi, Shostakovich's 5th Symphony and Ravel's Piano Concerto in G, with Jean-Yves Thibaudet. Live from the Proms. Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Sara Mohr-Pietsch Wagner: Rienzi - Overture Ravel: Piano Concerto in G major 8:15pm Interval 8:35pm Shostakovich: Symphony No. 5 in D minor Jean-Yves Thibaudet (piano) Gustav Mahler Jugendorchester Philippe Jordan (conductor) Founded by Claudio Abbado in 1986, the pan-European Gustav Mahler Jugendorchester remains one of the most musically exciting and technically polished youth orchestras in the world. Tonight, Philippe Jordan directs the GMJO in the overture to Wagner's Rienzi and Shostakovich's Fifth Symphony, written in an atmosphere of intense scrutiny and artistic repression, after the public denouncement of his opera The Lady Macbeth of the Mtsensk District. Ravel's jazz-inflected Piano Concerto in G major completes the programme, with the flamboyant French pianist Jean-Yves Thibaudet as the soloist. This Prom will be repeated on Sunday 1st September at 2pm.
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25-Aug-2013
BBC Proms - 2013 Season: Proms Saturday Matinees: PSM 4: 4. English Chamber Orchestra
Britten 100 The English Chamber Orchestra performs two works written for the tenor Peter Pears, including Britten's Serenade for tenor, horn and strings. Plus a set of variations by multiple composers which marked the Queen's coronation in 1953. Live from Cadogan Hall, London Presented by Clemency Burton-Hill Purcell, arr. Britten: Chacony Lutoslawski: Paroles tissées Berkeley, Britten, Oldham, Searle, Tippett & Walton: Variations on an Elizabethan Theme (Sellinger's Round) Tansy Davies & John Woolrich: Variations on an Elizabethan Theme (Sellinger's Round) - new variations (BBC commission: world premiere) Britten: Serenade for tenor, horn and strings Ben Johnson (tenor) Richard Watkins (horn) English Chamber Orchestra Paul Watkins (conductor) To mark the centenary of Benjamin Britten, the English Chamber Orchestra focus on his evocative Serenade, together with one of his Purcell arrangments. The other two works in the programme are a set of songs which Lutoslawski composed for Peter Pears, and a set of Variations written collectively for the 1953 coronation. Britten contributed one variation, and the other composers were Lennox Berkeley, Arthur Oldham, Humphrey Searle, Michael Tippett and William Walton. For this performance there are two special new additions to the set, by Tansy Davies and John Woolrich. This concert will be repeated on Wednesday 28th August at 2pm.
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24-Aug-2013
BBC Proms - 2013 Season: Prom 55: Prom 55 (part 2): Lutoslawski, Shostakovich & Panufnik
Antoni Wit and the Warsaw Philharmonic Orchestra play Lutoslawski and Panufnik, with Alexander Melnikov in Shostakovich's Second Piano Concerto. Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Petroc Trelawny Lutoslawski: Concerto for Orchestra Shostakovich: Piano Concerto No. 2 in F major 8.30pm Interval 8.50pm Panufnik: Tragic Overture Panufnik: Lullaby Shostakovich: Symphony No. 6 in B minor Alexander Melnikov (piano) Warsaw Philharmonic Orchestra Antoni Wit (conductor) Antoni Wit and the Warsaw Philharmonic Orchestra make their Proms debuts as the festival continues its focus on Polish music during Lutoslawski's centenary year. Written for the Warsaw Philharmonic in 1954, Lutoslawski's virtuosic folk-inflected Concerto for Orchestra creates a unique sound-world. Lauded for his recording of Shostakovich's Preludes and Fugues, pianist Alexander Melnikov is the soloist in the composer's buoyant Piano Concerto No. 2. Andrzej Panufnik's Tragic Overture and Lullaby and Shostakovich's Sixth Symphony paint a vivid picture of two nations in parallel periods of anxiety. An edited version of this Prom will be broadcast on Friday 30th August at 2pm.
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24-Aug-2013
BBC Proms - 2013 Season: Proms Plus Intro: Lutoslawski, Panufnik and Polish Culture
Recorded at the Royal College of Music, London Andrew McGregor talks to Nick Reyland and Roxanna Panufnik about Lutoslawski and Panufnik and their place in the history of Polish culture.
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24-Aug-2013
BBC Proms - 2013 Season: Prom 55: Prom 55 (part 1): Lutoslawski, Shostakovich & Panufnik
Antoni Wit and the Warsaw Philharmonic Orchestra play Lutoslawski and Panufnik, with Alexander Melnikov in Shostakovich's Second Piano Concerto. Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Petroc Trelawny Lutoslawski: Concerto for Orchestra Shostakovich: Piano Concerto No. 2 in F major 8.30pm Interval 8.50pm Panufnik: Tragic Overture Panufnik: Lullaby Shostakovich: Symphony No. 6 in B minor Alexander Melnikov (piano) Warsaw Philharmonic Orchestra Antoni Wit (conductor) Antoni Wit and the Warsaw Philharmonic Orchestra make their Proms debuts as the festival continues its focus on Polish music during Lutoslawski's centenary year. Written for the Warsaw Philharmonic in 1954, Lutoslawski's virtuosic folk-inflected Concerto for Orchestra creates a unique sound-world. Lauded for his recording of Shostakovich's Preludes and Fugues, pianist Alexander Melnikov is the soloist in the composer's buoyant Piano Concerto No. 2. Andrzej Panufnik's Tragic Overture and Lullaby and Shostakovich's Sixth Symphony paint a vivid picture of two nations in parallel periods of anxiety. An edited version of this Prom will be broadcast on Friday 30th August at 2pm.
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23-Aug-2013
BBC Proms - 2013 Season: Prom 54: World Routes Prom
Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Lucy Duran The stars of this year's World Routes Academy Fidan Hajiyeva and Gochaq Askarov from Azerbaijan live at the BBC Proms. Plus music from Mali with Bassekou Kouyate and Ngoni Ba, as well as the worldwide debut of the all-star Da Kali Trio. In January 2013 UK-based Fidan Hajiyeva, at just 17, became the youngest member of the World Routes Academy. Launched in 2010, the BBC Radio 3 World Routes Academy aims to support and inspire young world music artists by bringing them together with an internationally renowned artist in the same field and belonging to the same tradition. Fidan's parents are from music-rich Azerbaijan and her mentor is the celebrated Azeri singer Gochaq Askarov. The World Routes Prom also includes a focus on Mali. Da Kali is an ensemble drawn from the long tradition of Malian griots or praise singers, and includes virtuoso balafon player Lassana Diabate, Hawa Diabate a powerful and versatile female griot, and Mamadou Kouyate, who has made the little known bass ngoni his own. Trio Da Kali's appearance at the BBC Proms will be their world premiere. The Trio has been handpicked by the Aga Khan Music Initiative for the next Kronos Quartet collaboration, which will debut in the USA in early 2014. Bassekou Kouyate is one of the true masters of the ngoni, an ancient traditional lute found throughout West Africa. He has collaborated with many musicians in and outside of Mali including Toumani Diabate, Taj Mahal, Toumani Diabate, Ali Farka Toure, Sir Paul McCartney, John Paul Jones, and many others. After his celebrated debut album 'Segu Blue' and the Grammy nominated follow up 'I speak fula', as well as hundreds of concerts all over the globe, he is back with his new album 'Jama ko.'.
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23-Aug-2013
BBC Proms - 2013 Season: Prom 53: Prom 53 (part 2): Tchaikovsky, Wagner, Prokofiev
Rotterdam Philharmonic Orchestra and Yannick Nézet-Séguin live at the BBC Proms with music by Tchaikovsky, Wagner and Prokofiev. Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Martin Handley Tchaikovsky: Fantasy-Overture 'Romeo and Juliet' Wagner, orch. Mottl: Wesendonck-Lieder 7.45pm Interval 8.05pm Prokofiev: Symphony No. 5 in B flat major Anna Caterina Antonacci (soprano) Rotterdam Philharmonic Orchestra Yannick Nézet-Séguin (conductor) Tonights Prom features the Rotterdam Philharmonic and opens with a tale of doomed love in Tchaikovsky's Fantasy-Overture 'Romeo and Juliet', conducted by the orchestra's charismatic Canadian Music Director Yannick Nézet-Séguin. They are then joined by Italian soprano Anna Caterina Antonacci for Wagner's 'Wesendonck Lieder', a song-cycle written by the composer while he was infatuated with Mathilde Wesendonck, the author of the poems, and the wife of Wagner's patron. The second half of the concert is devoted to Prokofiev's bright and energetic Fifth Symphony in B flat major. An edited version of this Prom will be broadcast on Thursday 29th August at 2pm.
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23-Aug-2013
BBC Proms - 2013 Season: Proms Plus Intro: Prokofiev and His Fifth Symphony
James Jolly discusses Prokofiev and his Fifth Symphony with Fiona McKnight, Archivist of the Prokofiev Archive at Goldsmiths University, and the musicologist David Nice.
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23-Aug-2013
BBC Proms - 2013 Season: Prom 53: Prom 53 (part 1): Tchaikovsky, Wagner, Prokofiev
Rotterdam Philharmonic Orchestra and Yannick Nézet-Séguin live at the BBC Proms with music by Tchaikovsky, Wagner and Prokofiev. Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Martin Handley Tchaikovsky: Fantasy-Overture 'Romeo and Juliet' Wagner, orch. Mottl: Wesendonck-Lieder 7.45pm Interval 8.05pm Prokofiev: Symphony No. 5 in B flat major Anna Caterina Antonacci (soprano) Rotterdam Philharmonic Orchestra Yannick Nézet-Séguin (conductor) Tonights Prom features the Rotterdam Philharmonic and opens with a tale of doomed love in Tchaikovsky's Fantasy-Overture 'Romeo and Juliet', conducted by the orchestra's charismatic Canadian Music Director Yannick Nézet-Séguin. They are then joined by Italian soprano Anna Caterina Antonacci for Wagner's 'Wesendonck Lieder', a song-cycle written by the composer while he was infatuated with Mathilde Wesendonck, the author of the poems, and the wife of Wagner's patron. The second half of the concert is devoted to Prokofiev's bright and energetic Fifth Symphony in B flat major. An edited version of this Prom will be broadcast on Thursday 29th August at 2pm.
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22-Aug-2013
BBC Proms - 2013 Season: Proms Composer Portraits: 3. Param Vir
Param Vir talks to Andrew McGregor about his work, and introduces performances of his chamber works, given by musicians from the Royal Academy of Music. Recorded earlier this evening at the Amaryllis Concert Hall in the Royal College of Music.
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22-Aug-2013
BBC Proms - 2013 Season: Prom 52: Prom 52 (part 2): Vir, Sibelius, Bantock & Elgar
The BBC Symphony Orchestra and Sakari Oramo perform Elgar's Enigma Variations & Sibelius's Violin Concerto, with soloist Lisa Batiashvili, live at the BBC Proms. Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Penny Gore Param Vir: Cave of Luminous Mind (BBC commission: world premiere) Sibelius: Violin Concerto in D minor 8.35pm Interval 8.55pm Bantock: Celtic Symphony Elgar: 'Enigma' Variations Lisa Batiashvili (violin) BBC Symphony Orchestra Sakari Oramo (conductor) Dedicated to the late Jonathan Harvey, Param Vir's Cave of Luminous Mind is inspired by the mindfulness of Tibetan Buddhism and the story of Buddhist master Milarepa's penitential progress on the Diamond Path. Chief Conductor and Elgar Medalwinner Sakari Oramo directs the BBC Symphony Orchestra in the world premiere of Vir's work, Elgar's 'Enigma' Variations and Granville Bantock's 1940 Celtic Symphony for strings and six harps. Georgian violinist Lisa Batiashvili plays Sibelius's exhilarating Violin Concerto, a work she recorded in 2008 to rave reviews. An edited version of this Prom will be broadcast on Tuesday 27th August at 2pm.
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22-Aug-2013
BBC Proms - 2013 Season: Prom 52: Prom 52 (part 1): Vir, Sibelius, Bantock & Elgar
The BBC Symphony Orchestra and Sakari Oramo perform Elgar's Enigma Variations & Sibelius's Violin Concerto, with soloist Lisa Batiashvili, live at the BBC Proms. Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Penny Gore Param Vir: Cave of Luminous Mind (BBC commission: world premiere) Sibelius: Violin Concerto in D minor 8.35pm Interval 8.55pm Bantock: Celtic Symphony Elgar: 'Enigma' Variations Lisa Batiashvili (violin) BBC Symphony Orchestra Sakari Oramo (conductor) Dedicated to the late Jonathan Harvey, Param Vir's Cave of Luminous Mind is inspired by the mindfulness of Tibetan Buddhism and the story of Buddhist master Milarepa's penitential progress on the Diamond Path. Chief Conductor and Elgar Medalwinner Sakari Oramo directs the BBC Symphony Orchestra in the world premiere of Vir's work, Elgar's 'Enigma' Variations and Granville Bantock's 1940 Celtic Symphony for strings and six harps. Georgian violinist Lisa Batiashvili plays Sibelius's exhilarating Violin Concerto, a work she recorded in 2008 to rave reviews. An edited version of this Prom will be broadcast on Tuesday 27th August at 2pm.
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21-Aug-2013
BBC Proms - 2013 Season: Proms Plus Late: Tomos Brangwyn, Adib Rostami, Mehdi Ganjvar, Kayo Chingonyi
Georgia Mann introduces a session mixing music by Tomos Brangwyn, Adib Rostami and Mehdi Ganjvar with Kayo Chingonyi's poetry.
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21-Aug-2013
BBC Proms - 2013 Season: Prom 51: Prom 51 (part 2): Tippett, Britten & Elgar
Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Sara Mohr-Pietsch Ian Bostridge, London Symphony Orchestra and Daniel Harding live at the BBC Proms in a concert honouring the memory of Sir Colin Davis through music by Britten, Tippett and Elgar. Tippett: The Mask of Time - Fanfare no. 5 Tippett: Concerto for Double String Orchestra Britten: Les illuminations 8.30pm Interval 8.50pm Elgar: Symphony No. 2 in E flat major Ian Bostridge (tenor) London Symphony Orchestra Daniel Harding (conductor) What was to have been the latest Proms appearance by Sir Colin Davis becomes, following his death earlier this year, a concert honouring his memory. Taking over as conductor, Daniel Harding performs music by the modern British composer with whom Sir Colin was perhaps most associated - Michael Tippett - including in his programme Tippett's wonderfully vigorous, energetic and inventive Concerto for strings. This year's Britten centenary is marked in his white-hot 1940 song-cycle to words by the precocious teenage poet, surrealist and libertine Arthur Rimbaud. Concluding the concert, the magisterial Second Symphony by the grandfather of 20th-century English music, Edward Elgar. An edited version of this Prom will be broadcast on Monday 26th August at 2pm.
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21-Aug-2013
BBC Proms - 2013 Season: Proms Plus Literary: Britten and Poetry
Benjamin Britten's compositions were inspired by the work of many poets and novelists, including Wilfred Owen, W.H. Auden, Blake, Shakespeare, Henry James and Thomas Mann. The actor Samuel West, who has narrated some of Britten's films, and writer Alexandra Harris explore the relationship between words and music. Presented by Ian McMillan and including readings by Malcolm Sinclair. Recorded in front of an audience at the Royal College of Music as part of this year's Proms Plus events.
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21-Aug-2013
BBC Proms - 2013 Season: Prom 51: Prom 51 (part 1): Tippett, Britten & Elgar
Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Sara Mohr-Pietsch Ian Bostridge, London Symphony Orchestra and Daniel Harding live at the BBC Proms in a concert honouring the memory of Sir Colin Davis through music by Britten, Tippett and Elgar. Tippett: The Mask of Time - Fanfare no. 5 Tippett: Concerto for Double String Orchestra Britten: Les illuminations 8.30pm Interval 8.50pm Elgar: Symphony No. 2 in E flat major Ian Bostridge (tenor) London Symphony Orchestra Daniel Harding (conductor) What was to have been the latest Proms appearance by Sir Colin Davis becomes, following his death earlier this year, a concert honouring his memory. Taking over as conductor, Daniel Harding performs music by the modern British composer with whom Sir Colin was perhaps most associated - Michael Tippett - including in his programme Tippett's wonderfully vigorous, energetic and inventive Concerto for strings. This year's Britten centenary is marked in his white-hot 1940 song-cycle to words by the precocious teenage poet, surrealist and libertine Arthur Rimbaud. Concluding the concert, the magisterial Second Symphony by the grandfather of 20th-century English music, Edward Elgar. An edited version of this Prom will be broadcast on Monday 26th August at 2pm.
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20-Aug-2013
BBC Proms - 2013 Season: Prom 50: White, Barry, Rzewski & Feldman
BBC SSO and Ilan Volkov live at the BBC Proms with Gerald Barry, Feldman's Coptic Light and the World Premiere of Frederic Rzewski's Piano Concerto with the composer as soloist. Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Andrew McGregor John White: Chord-Breaking Machine Gerald Barry: No other people. (UK premiere) Frederic Rzewski: Piano Concerto (BBC commission: world premiere) Feldman: Coptic Light Frederic Rzewski (piano) BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra Ilan Volkov (conductor) Ilan Volkov brings his spirit of adventure to this late night Prom, featuring music as beautiful as it is ground breaking. The BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra performs music by a quartet of visionary and idiosyncratic composers, including two premieres. John White's Chord-breaking Machine could be seen as belonging to a tradition of experimental English minimalists, deconstructing musical material into its constituent parts and reforming as repetitive machine structures; Irish maverick Gerald Barry's No Other People, tonight receiving its first UK performance, also draws on repetition and seemingly simple musical figures, but here to create strongly contrasting canvases of bold, wild and stark music. Frederic Rzewski's BBC Radio 3-commissioned Piano Concerto, tonally kaleidoscopic and stylistically far reaching, receives its world premiere, with the composer as soloist. And the concert concludes with Morton Feldman's late masterpiece, Coptic Light, a meditation for orchestra: a beatific and spiritual end to this late-night Prom.
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20-Aug-2013
BBC Proms - 2013 Season: Prom 49: Prom 49 (part 2): Berlioz, Mendelssohn, Bach & Beethoven
Stephen Hough, the Scottish Chamber Orchestra and Robin Ticciati live at the BBC Proms with music by Berlioz, Mendelssohn, Bach and Beethoven. Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Martin Handley Berlioz: Overture - King Lear Mendelssohn: Piano Concerto No 1 in G minor 7.50pm Interval 8.10pm J. S. Bach, orch. George Benjamin: The Art of Fugue - Canon and Fugue Beethoven: Symphony No. 3 in E flat major, 'Eroica' Stephen Hough (piano) Scottish Chamber Orchestra Robin Ticciati (conductor) Stephen Hough makes his second Proms appearance this summer with Mendelssohn's Piano Concerto No 1, famously sight-read by Liszt in the Erard piano showroom in Paris in 1831. Under its Principal Conductor Robin Ticciati, the Scottish Chamber Orchestra performs another work of the same year: Berlioz's King Lear, alongside Beethoven's mighty "Eroica" symphony, described by Berlioz as 'a funeral oration for a great hero'. George Benjamin pays tribute to Bach with orchestrated excerpts from The Art of Fugue. An edited version of this Prom will be broadcast on Sunday 25th August at 2pm.
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20-Aug-2013
BBC Proms - 2013 Season: Proms Plus Intro: The World of the Romantic Piano Concerto
The writer Judith Chernaik and Kenneth Hamilton, pianist and Professor of Music at Cardiff University, join Ian Skelly to explore the world of the Romantic piano concerto and Mendelssohn's contribution to the genre.
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20-Aug-2013
BBC Proms - 2013 Season: Prom 49: Prom 49 (part 1): Berlioz, Mendelssohn, Bach & Beethoven
Stephen Hough, the Scottish Chamber Orchestra and Robin Ticciati live at the BBC Proms with music by Berlioz, Mendelssohn, Bach and Beethoven. Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Martin Handley Berlioz: Overture - King Lear Mendelssohn: Piano Concerto No 1 in G minor 7.50pm Interval 8.10pm J. S. Bach, orch. George Benjamin: The Art of Fugue - Canon and Fugue Beethoven: Symphony No. 3 in E flat major, 'Eroica' Stephen Hough (piano) Scottish Chamber Orchestra Robin Ticciati (conductor) Stephen Hough makes his second Proms appearance this summer with Mendelssohn's Piano Concerto No 1, famously sight-read by Liszt in the Erard piano showroom in Paris in 1831. Under its Principal Conductor Robin Ticciati, the Scottish Chamber Orchestra performs another work of the same year: Berlioz's King Lear, alongside Beethoven's mighty "Eroica" symphony, described by Berlioz as 'a funeral oration for a great hero'. George Benjamin pays tribute to Bach with orchestrated excerpts from The Art of Fugue. An edited version of this Prom will be broadcast on Sunday 25th August at 2pm.
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20-Aug-2013
BBC Proms - 2013 Season: Proms Chamber Music: PCM 6: 6. London Conchord Ensemble
Robin Tritschler and London Conchord Ensemble at the BBC Proms perform music from the English pastoral tradition by Warlock and Imogen Holst, alongside Poulenc's witty Sextet. From Cadogan Hall, London Presented by Petroc Trelawny Poulenc: Sextet Imogen Holst: Phantasy Quartet Warlock: The Curlew Couperin, arr. Adès: Les baricades mistérieuses Robin Tritschler (tenor) London Conchord Ensemble Peter Warlock's yearning and melancholy song-cycle on poems by WB Yeats lies at the heart of this Prom, paired with another wistful piece of English pastoralia from the student pen of the young Imogen Holst. Alongside them, Poulenc's wonderfully witty and colourful Sextet for piano and wind instruments provides a spicy contrast, with - to finish - an elusive 17th-century harpsichord work by François Couperin, refracted through the contemporary prism of Thomas Adès's fertile musical imagination. An edited version of this Prom will be broadcast on Saturday 24th August at 2pm.
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19-Aug-2013
BBC Proms - 2013 Season: Prom 48: Prom 48 (part 2): Ravel, Matthias Pintscher and Stravinsky
Tine Thing Helseth, Marco Blaauw, BBC SSO and Matthias Pintscher live at the BBC Proms. Dance-inspired music by Stravinsky and Ravel alongside Pintscher's Double Trumpet Concerto. Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Penny Gore Ravel: Rapsodie espagnole Matthias Pintscher: Chute d'étoiles (London premiere) 8.15pm Interval 8.35pm Stravinsky: The Firebird Tine Thing Helseth (trumpet) Marco Blaauw (trumpet) BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra Matthias Pintscher (conductor) Composer-conductor Matthias Pintscher combines his twin roles this evening, as he joins the BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra to perform his own music alongside that of composers who have inspired him. Proms featured artist Tine Thing Helseth joins Marco Blaauw as the pair of virtuoso soloists in the London premiere of Matthias Pintscher's Double Trumpet Concerto, Chute d'etoiles. A dramatic and multi-layered work, it takes inspiration from the sculptures of Anselm Kiefer and Stravinsky's Rite of Spring. The piece is painted in vivid colours, richly textured, and pushes the techniques of soloists and orchestra to shattering effect. The concerto is sandwiched between two works which also combine a sense of drama with exquisite and masterfully orchestrated surfaces. Ravel's turn-of-the-century exploration of Spanish dance forms, Rapsodie espagnole and Stravinsky's ballet based on Russian folktales, The Firebird. An edited version of this Prom will be broadcast on Wednesday 21st August at 2pm.
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19-Aug-2013
BBC Proms - 2013 Season: Proms Plus Intro: Introduction to The Firebird
Louise Fryer and Jonathan Cross discuss Stravinsky's The Firebird. Recorded earlier this evening at the Amaryllis Fleming Concert Hall of the Royal College of Music.
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19-Aug-2013
BBC Proms - 2013 Season: Prom 48: Prom 48 (part 1): Ravel, Matthias Pintscher and Stravinsky
Tine Thing Helseth, Marco Blaauw, BBC SSO and Matthias Pintscher live at the BBC Proms. Dance-inspired music by Stravinsky and Ravel alongside Pintscher's Double Trumpet Concerto. Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Penny Gore Ravel: Rapsodie espagnole Matthias Pintscher: Chute d'étoiles (London premiere) 8.15pm Interval 8.35pm Stravinsky: The Firebird Tine Thing Helseth (trumpet) Marco Blaauw (trumpet) BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra Matthias Pintscher (conductor) Composer-conductor Matthias Pintscher combines his twin roles this evening, as he joins the BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra to perform his own music alongside that of composers who have inspired him. Proms featured artist Tine Thing Helseth joins Marco Blaauw as the pair of virtuoso soloists in the London premiere of Matthias Pintscher's Double Trumpet Concerto, Chute d'etoiles. A dramatic and multi-layered work, it takes inspiration from the sculptures of Anselm Kiefer and Stravinsky's Rite of Spring. The piece is painted in vivid colours, richly textured, and pushes the techniques of soloists and orchestra to shattering effect. The concerto is sandwiched between two works which also combine a sense of drama with exquisite and masterfully orchestrated surfaces. Ravel's turn-of-the-century exploration of Spanish dance forms, Rapsodie espagnole and Stravinsky's ballet based on Russian folktales, The Firebird. An edited version of this Prom will be broadcast on Wednesday 21st August at 2pm.
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19-Aug-2013
BBC Proms - 2013 Season: Prom 46: Prom 46 (part 1): Dvorak, Verdi, Tchaikovsky & Strauss
The CBSO under Andris Nelsons, live at the BBC Proms with Kristine Opolais singing music by Verdi and Tchaikovsky. Also orchestral works by Dvorak and Strauss. Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Petroc Trelawny Dvorák: Symphony No. 8 in G major 3.40pm Interval 4.00pm Verdi: Otello - Willow Song; Ave Maria Tchaikovsky: Eugene Onegin - Polonaise; Letter Scene Johann Strauss II: Emperor Waltz Johann Strauss II: Thunder and Lightning - polka Kristine Opolais (soprano) City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra Andris Nelsons (conductor) The City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra under its Music Director, conductor Andris Nelsons, accompany soprano Kristine Opolais in the Willow Song and Ave Maria from Verdi's Otello, as well as in the Letter Scene from Tchaikovsky's Eugene Onegin. But first, Dvorak's Symphony No. 8; and at the end two orchestral pieces by Johann Strauss II: the Emperor Waltz and the Thunder and Lightning polka. An edited version of this Prom will be broadcast on Thursday 22nd August at 2pm.
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18-Aug-2013
BBC Proms - 2013 Season: Prom 47: Prom 47 (part 2): Brahms's A German Requiem
Rachel Harnisch, Henk Neven, OAE and Marin Alsop live at the BBC Proms with one of the greats of the choral repertoire - Brahms's German Requiem - and works by Brahms and Schumann. Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Clemency Burton-Hill Brahms: Tragic Overture (op. 81) Schumann: Symphony No. 4 in D minor 8.15pm Interval 8.35pm Brahms: A German Requiem Rachel Harnisch (soprano) Henk Neven (baritone) Choir of the Enlightenment Orchestra of the Age of Enlightenment Marin Alsop (conductor) Inspired by the death of his own mother, the German Requiem of Johannes Brahms is famously a piece which sets out to console the living, rather than commending to eternity the souls of the dead. With texts assembled by Brahms himself from the Lutheran Bible, its deliberate avoidance of Christian theology was a source of concern at early performances, but the premiere of the complete work in 1868 was a triumphant turning-point in Brahms's career. Tonight's performance, using period instrument and choral forces of the sort and size Brahms himself would have known, places his masterwork in the context of his relationship with friends and fellow-composers Robert and Clara Schumann - including performances of Schumann's masterly Fourth Symphony and Brahms's own Tragic Overture. An edited version of this Prom will be broadcast on Friday 23rd August at 2pm.
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18-Aug-2013
BBC Proms - 2013 Season: Proms Plus Intro: Brahms
Laura Tunbridge and Julian Johnson discuss the music of Brahms. Recorded earlier this evening at the Amaryllis Fleming Concert Hall of the Royal College of Music.
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18-Aug-2013
BBC Proms - 2013 Season: Prom 47: Prom 47 (part 1): Brahms - A German Requiem
Rachel Harnisch, Henk Neven, OAE and Marin Alsop live at the BBC Proms with one of the greats of the choral repertoire - Brahms's German Requiem - and works by Brahms and Schumann. Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Clemency Burton-Hill Brahms: Tragic Overture (op. 81) Schumann: Symphony No. 4 in D minor 8.15pm Interval 8.35pm Brahms: A German Requiem Rachel Harnisch (soprano) Henk Neven (baritone) Choir of the Enlightenment Orchestra of the Age of Enlightenment Marin Alsop (conductor) Inspired by the death of his own mother, the German Requiem of Johannes Brahms is famously a piece which sets out to console the living, rather than commending to eternity the souls of the dead. With texts assembled by Brahms himself from the Lutheran Bible, its deliberate avoidance of Christian theology was a source of concern at early performances, but the premiere of the complete work in 1868 was a triumphant turning-point in Brahms's career. Tonight's performance, using period instrument and choral forces of the sort and size Brahms himself would have known, places his masterwork in the context of his relationship with friends and fellow-composers Robert and Clara Schumann - including performances of Schumann's masterly Fourth Symphony and Brahms's own Tragic Overture. An edited version of this Prom will be broadcast on Friday 23rd August at 2pm.
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18-Aug-2013
BBC Proms - 2013 Season: Prom 46: Prom 46 (part 2): Dvorak, Verdi, Tchaikovsky & Strauss
The CBSO under Andris Nelsons, live at the BBC Proms with Kristine Opolais singing music by Verdi and Tchaikovsky. Also orchestral works by Dvorak and Strauss. Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Petroc Trelawny Dvorák: Symphony No. 8 in G major 3.40pm Interval (see separate billing) 4.00pm Verdi: Otello - Willow Song; Ave Maria Tchaikovsky: Eugene Onegin - Polonaise; Letter Scene Johann Strauss II: Emperor Waltz Johann Strauss II: Thunder and Lightning - polka Kristine Opolais (soprano) City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra Andris Nelsons (conductor) The City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra under its Music Director, conductor Andris Nelsons, accompany soprano Kristine Opolais in the Willow Song and Ave Maria from Verdi's Otello, as well as in the Letter Scene from Tchaikovsky's Eugene Onegin. But first, Dvorak's Symphony No. 8; and at the end two orchestral pieces by Johann Strauss II: the Emperor Waltz and the Thunder and Lightning polka. An edited version of this Prom will be broadcast on Thursday 22nd August at 2pm.
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17-Aug-2013
BBC Proms - 2013 Season: Proms Plus Intro: The Midsummer Marriage
Louise Fryer talks to writer Oliver Soden, composer Michael Berkeley and pianist Paul Webster about Tippett's Midsummer Marriage. Oliver Soden is currently writing a book about how Tippett sets words in his music and will discuss the libretto and Tippett's relationship with T. S. Eliot. Michael Berkeley knew Tippett personally and has studied his music closely, as has pianist Paul Webster who has also been repetiteur in rehearsals for tonight's Prom Performance.
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17-Aug-2013
BBC Proms - 2013 Season: Prom 45: Prom 45 (part 2): Tippett - The Midsummer Marriage
Tippett's great opera The Midsummer Marriage with the BBC Symphony Orchestra and Sir Andrew Davis live at the BBC Proms Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Andrew McGregor Tippett: The Midsummer Marriage: Act 1 19.35 Interval 20:00 Tippett: The Midsummer Marriage: Act 2 20.35 Interval 21:00 Tippett: The Midsummer Marriage: Act 3 Mark ..... Paul Groves (tenor) Jenifer ..... Erin Wall (soprano) King Fisher ..... David Wilson-Johnson (baritone) Bella ..... Ailish Tynan (soprano) Jack ..... Allan Clayton (tenor) Sosotris ..... Catherine Wyn-Rogers (mezzo) He-Ancient ..... David Soar (bass) She-Ancient ..... Madeleine Shaw (mezzo) BBC Singers BBC Symphony Chorus BBC Symphony Orchestra Sir Andrew Davis (conductor) Stage Director, Kenneth Richardson Last heard at the Proms in 1977, The Midsummer Marriage is Tippett's answer to Mozart's The Magic Flute, an opera rich in symbolism and psychology, trials and transformations. Paul Groves and Erin Wall are Mark and Jenifer, Ailish Tynan and Allan Clayton, Bella and Jack, two couples tested by a series of supernatural interventions on the shortest night of the year. One of today's leading Tippett exponents, Sir Andrew Davis conducts the centrepiece of this summer's Proms focus on Tippett's music alongside Britten's centenary. An edited version of this Prom will be broadcast on Tuesday 20th August at 2pm.
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17-Aug-2013
BBC Proms - 2013 Season: Prom 45: Prom 45 (part 1): Tippett - The Midsummer Marriage
Tippett's great opera The Midsummer Marriage with the BBC Symphony Orchestra and Sir Andrew Davis live at the BBC Proms Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Andrew McGregor Tippett: The Midsummer Marriage: Act 1 19.35 Interval 20:00 Tippett: The Midsummer Marriage: Act 2 20.35 Interval 21:00 Tippett: The Midsummer Marriage: Act 3 Mark ..... Paul Groves (tenor) Jenifer ..... Erin Wall (soprano) King Fisher ..... David Wilson-Johnson (baritone) Bella ..... Ailish Tynan (soprano) Jack ..... Allan Clayton (tenor) Sosotris ..... Catherine Wyn-Rogers (mezzo) He-Ancient ..... David Soar (bass) She-Ancient ..... Madeleine Shaw (mezzo) BBC Singers BBC Symphony Chorus BBC Symphony Orchestra Sir Andrew Davis (conductor) Stage Director, Kenneth Richardson Last heard at the Proms in 1977, The Midsummer Marriage is Tippett's answer to Mozart's The Magic Flute, an opera rich in symbolism and psychology, trials and transformations. Paul Groves and Erin Wall are Mark and Jenifer, Ailish Tynan and Allan Clayton, Bella and Jack, two couples tested by a series of supernatural interventions on the shortest night of the year. One of today's leading Tippett exponents, Sir Andrew Davis conducts the centrepiece of this summer's Proms focus on Tippett's music alongside Britten's centenary. An edited version of this Prom will be broadcast on Tuesday 20th August at 2pm.
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16-Aug-2013
BBC Proms - 2013 Season: Prom 44: Prom 44 (part 2): Stravinsky, Penderecki, Debussy & Ravel
Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Petroc Trelawny Charles Dutoit conducts the RPO live at the Royal Albert Hall from the BBC Proms in music by Stravinsky, Debussy, Penderecki and Ravel. Stravinsky: Fireworks Krzysztof Penderecki: Concerto grosso 8:15pm Interval 8:40pm Debussy: La mer Ravel: Daphnis and Chloe - Suite No. 2 Leonard Elschenbroich (cello) Daniel Muller-Schott (cello) Arto Noras (cello) Royal Philharmonic Orchestra Charles Dutoit (conductor) Tonight's Prom opens with Stravinsky's short but brilliant Fireworks, and is followed by the Concerto Grosso by Krzyzstof Penderecki, who is 80 this year, featuring a trio of cellists Leonard Elschenbroich, Daniel Muller-Schott and Arto Noras. The concerto plays with Baroque forms, the cellists playing against choirs of woodwind. The work was written in 2000 and has been championed by Dutoit in Japan, Philadelphia and Chicago. The second half of the concert features 2 French scores: Debussy's sensuous orchestrations in La Mer, and concludes with the second suite from Ravel's stunningly beautiful Daphnis and Chloe. An edited version of this Prom will be broadcast on Monday 19th August at 2pm.
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16-Aug-2013
BBC Proms - 2013 Season: Proms Plus Literary: The Life and Legacy of Rudolf Nureyev
Rudolf Nureyev was one of the greatest dancers of the 20th century. His charisma and electrifying stage presence made him a superstar and he transformed the status and even the expected appearance of the male dancer. Twenty years after his death the former director of the Royal Ballet, Dame Monica Mason, who partnered him in Hamlet, and his biographer, Julie Kavanagh, celebrate his life and legacy wit h Samira Ahmed. Recorded in front of an audience at the Royal College of Music as part of this year's Proms Plus events.
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16-Aug-2013
BBC Proms - 2013 Season: Prom 44: Prom 44 (part 1): Stravinsky, Penderecki, Debussy & Ravel
Charles Dutoit conducts the RPO live at the Royal Albert Hall from the BBC Proms in music by Stravinsky, Debussy, Penderecki and Ravel. Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Petroc Trelawny Stravinsky: Fireworks Krzysztof Penderecki: Concerto grosso 8:15pm Interval 8:40pm Debussy: La mer Ravel: Daphnis and Chloe - Suite No. 2 Leonard Elschenbroich (cello) Daniel Müller-Schott (cello) Arto Noras (cello) Royal Philharmonic Orchestra Charles Dutoit (conductor) Tonight's Prom opens with Stravinsky's short but brilliant Fireworks, and is followed by the Concerto Grosso by Krzyzstof Penderecki, who is 80 this year, featuring a trio of cellists Leonard Elschenbroich, Daniel Müller-Schott and Arto Noras. The concerto plays with Baroque forms, the cellists playing against choirs of woodwind. The work was written in 2000 and has been championed by Dutoit in Japan, Philadelphia and Chicago. The second half of the concert features 2 French scores: Debussy's sensuous orchestrations in La Mer, and concludes with the second suite from Ravel's stunningly beautiful Daphnis and Chloe. An edited version of this Prom will be broadcast on Monday 19th August at 2pm.
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15-Aug-2013
BBC Proms - 2013 Season: Proms Plus Intro: Tchaikovsky and His World
Ian Skelly talks to Rosamund Bartlett and Marina Frolova-Walker about Tchaikovsky and his world, looking at the influences in his life at the time of writing his Third Symphony. Recorded at the Royal College of Music.
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15-Aug-2013
BBC Proms - 2013 Season: Prom 43: Tallis Scholars
The Tallis Scholars and Peter Phillips perform sacred choral music by two Renaissance masters - the Italian Carlo Gesualdo and the Englishman John Taverner. Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Catherine Bott Taverner: Kyrie 'Leroy' Taverner: Missa Gloria tibi Trinitas - Gloria Gesualdo: Ave, dulcissima Maria Taverner: Missa Gloria tibi Trinitas - Credo Gesualdo: Ave, regina caelorum Taverner: Missa Gloria tibi Trinitas - Sanctus Gesualdo: Maria, mater gratiae Taverner: Missa Gloria tibi Trinitas - Agnus dei Tallis Scholars Peter Phillips (conductor) The Tallis Scholars are the choral group who, arguably, have done more than any other in this country to bring the sacred Renaissance masterpieces of the Golden Age back to life. In their 40th anniversary season they perform music by a composer who himself has an anniversary - Carlo Gesualdo, born 400 years ago this year. This 16th-century Neapolitan prince, notoriously, murdered his wife and her lover when he caught them in flagrante, and then - the story goes - spent the rest of his life in seclusion, atoning for this act of violence by composing a stream of sacred works whose highly-charged emotional expression shed a light on his own tortured state of mind. Alongside this intense, mannered music, a gloriously radiant setting of the mass by the English Tudor composer John Taverner - founding choirmaster of what is now Christ Church, Oxford, before falling from grace in the wake of his master - Cardinal Wolsey.
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15-Aug-2013
BBC Proms - 2013 Season: Prom 42: Prom 42 (part 2): Janacek, Beethoven & Tchaikovsky
Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Sara Mohr-Pietsch Kirill Karabits and the Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra in Janacek's Sinfonietta, Beethoven's 3rd Piano Concerto (with Sunwook Kim) and Tchaikovsky's 3rd Symphony. Janacek: Sinfonietta Beethoven: Piano Concerto No. 3 in C minor 8:05pm Interval 8.30pm Tchaikovsky: Symphony No. 3 in D major, 'Polish' Sunwook Kim (piano) Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra Kirill Karabits (conductor) This summer?s Tchaikovsky symphony cycle continues as Kirill Karabits conducts the Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra in the dance-infused Third Symphony, written in the summer of 1875 and dubbed the ?Polish? following its 1899 London premiere in the Crystal Palace. Leeds International Piano Competition-winner Sunwook Kim makes his Proms debut in Beethoven?s dramatic Piano Concerto No. 3 in a concert that begins with the dazzling brass fanfares and bustling street-life of Brno as translated into music in Janacek's 1926 Sinfonietta. An edited version of this Prom will be broadcast on Sunday 18th August at 2pm.
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15-Aug-2013
BBC Proms - 2013 Season: Prom 42: Prom 42 (part 1): Janacek, Beethoven & Tchaikovsky
Kirill Karabits and the Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra in Janacek's Sinfonietta, Beethoven's 3rd Piano Concerto (with Sunwook Kim) and Tchaikovsky's 3rd Symphony. Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Sara Mohr-Pietsch Janacek: Sinfonietta Beethoven: Piano Concerto No 3 in C minor 8:05pm Interval 8.30pm Tchaikovsky: Symphony No 3 in D major, 'Polish' Sunwook Kim (piano) Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra Kirill Karabits (conductor) This summer's Tchaikovsky symphony cycle continues as Kirill Karabits conducts the Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra in the dance-infused Third Symphony, written in the summer of 1875 and dubbed the 'Polish' following its 1899 London premiere in the Crystal Palace. Leeds International Piano Competition-winner Sunwook Kim makes his Proms debut in Beethoven's dramatic Piano Concerto No 3 in a concert that begins with the dazzling brass fanfares and bustling street-life of Brno as translated into music in Janacek's 1926 Sinfonietta. An edited version of this Prom will be broadcast on Sunday 18th August at 2pm.
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15-Aug-2013
BBC Proms - 2013 Season: Proms Plus Late: 4. Lauren Kinsella and Ahren Warner
Georgia Mann introduces a session with jazz vocalist and composer Lauren Kinsella, winner of the 2013 Kenny Wheeler Jazz Prize, accompanied on the piano by Dan Nicholls. Also, poet Ahren Warner reads some of his work.
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15-Aug-2013
BBC Proms - 2013 Season: Prom 41: Prom 41 (part 2): Borodin, Glazunov, Gubaidulina & Mussorgsky
The LSO and Valery Gergiev, live at the BBC Proms with music by Borodin, Glazunov, Gubaidulina and Musorgsky Live from the Royal Albert Hall Presented by Martin Handley Borodin: Symphony No 2 in B minor Glazunov: Piano Concerto No 2 in B major 8.20pm 8.45pm Sofia Gubaidulina: The Rider on the White Horse (UK premiere) Musorgsky, orch Ravel: Pictures at an Exhibition Daniil Trifonov (piano) Oleg Kinyaev (organ) London Symphony Orchestra Conductor Valery Gergiev Valery Gergiev conducts the LSO in a feast of Russian music, in which the UK premiere of Sofia Gubaidulina's The Rider on the White Horse is juxtaposed with Ravel's celebrated orchestration of Musorgsky's great Pictures at an Exhibition. Daniil Trifonov, who hit the headlines when he won the International Tchaikovsky Competition in 2011, makes his Proms debut with Glazunov's rarely heard Piano Concerto No 2, premiered in the first concert in Petrograd (St Petersburg) after the 1917 Revolution. An edited version of this Prom will be broadcast will be broadcast on Friday 16th August at 2pm.
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15-Aug-2013
BBC Proms - 2013 Season: Prom 41: Prom 41 (part 1): Borodin, Glazunov, Gubaidulina & Mussorgsky
The LSO and Valery Gergiev, live at the BBC Proms with music by Borodin, Glazunov, Gubaidulina and Musorgsky Live from the Royal Albert Hall Presented by Martin Handley Borodin: Symphony No 2 in B minor Glazunov: Piano Concerto No 2 in B major 8.20pm 8.45pm Sofia Gubaidulina: The Rider on the White Horse (UK premiere) Musorgsky, orch Ravel: Pictures at an Exhibition Daniil Trifonov (piano) Oleg Kinyaev (organ) London Symphony Orchestra Conductor Valery Gergiev Valery Gergiev conducts the LSO in a feast of Russian music, in which the UK premiere of Sofia Gubaidulina's The Rider on the White Horse is juxtaposed with Ravel's celebrated orchestration of Musorgsky's great Pictures at an Exhibition. Daniil Trifonov, who hit the headlines when he won the International Tchaikovsky Competition in 2011, makes his Proms debut with Glazunov's rarely heard Piano Concerto No 2, premiered in the first concert in Petrograd (St Petersburg) after the 1917 Revolution. An edited version of this Prom will be broadcast will be broadcast on Friday 16th August at 2pm.
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13-Aug-2013
BBC Proms - 2013 Season: Prom 40: 6 Music Prom
Laura Marling, Cerys Matthews, The Stranglers and London Sinfonietta live at the BBC Proms Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Tom Service and Steve Lamacq Laura Marling (singer) Cerys Matthews (singer) Anna Stéphany (mezzo-soprano) The Stranglers London Sinfonietta Andrew Gourlay (conductor) They may come from different ends of the radio dial but, for one night only, BBC Radio 6 Music's Steve Lamacq and Radio 3's Tom Service combine their passions for music to produce the first ever collaboration between these two diverse and distinctive radio stations. As well as featuring double Mercury Prize-nominated Laura Marling, 6 Music's own Cerys Matthews and original punk rock purveyors The Stranglers, the line-up inlcudes the London Sinfonietta, playing works by Varese, Berio, John Adam and Anna Meredith.
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13-Aug-2013
BBC Proms - 2013 Season: Proms Plus Intro: Vaughan Williams London Symphony
Vaughan Williams's A London Symphony was first performed in London in 1914. So: is it a tune-filled picture postcard, a dark premonition of a society devastated by war, or something more complex and subtle? Stephen Johnson and Kate Kennedy join Louise Fryer to talk about the Symphony that remained Vaughan Williams's own favourite even after he'd written seven more.
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13-Aug-2013
BBC Proms - 2013 Season: Prom 39: Prom 39 (part 1): Holst, Nishat Khan & Vaughan Williams
East meets West in two visions of India and a portrait of London. Nishat Khan's Sitar Concerto and Vaughan Williams's London Symphony with David Atherton and The BBC National Orchestra of Wales live at the BBC Proms. Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Suzy Klein Holst: Indra Nishat Khan: The Gate Of The Moon (Sitar Concerto No. 1) (BBC Commission: World Premiere) 19.45 Interval 20.10 Vaughan Williams: A London Symphony (Symphony No. 2) Nishat Khan (sitar) BBC National Orchestra of Wales David Atherton (conductor) Gustav Holst's fascination with Sanskrit literature found early expression in the 1903 tone-poem Indra, composed before the first set of his Hymns from the Rig Veda (heard on Radio 3 in Proms Chamber Music No 5, Monday 12 August 13:00). Sitar virtuoso Nishat Khan is a proms verteran, having first played as a soloist in 1989. This is the first time one of his own compositions has appeard at the Proms. Writing his concerto is a dream come true: "I have a huge love and respect for the Western classical tradition, and it's a daunting challenge to find a way of combining the sitar with this beautiful, gigantic orchestral sound". He's taken a minimalist approach, with the soloist partly playing composed lines and partly improvising; somtimes the forces meet in dialogue, sometimes embarking upon rhythmic exploration together, with a lot of interaction. He won't be using other indian instruments, though, rather exploiting the sounds of the orchestra. "I think of Western classical music as a huge ocean with so many different fish, plants and temperatures. Among the elements, he particularly loves the sound of the cello and the oboe, which he says combines beautifully with the sitar, bringing a "piercing nostalgia". First performed in 1914, Vaughan Williams's A London Symphony evokes the chimes of Westminster, a chill November in Bloomsbury and the bright lights of the Strand in a city that would soon be scarred by war. First half simulcast on BBC Asian Network. An edited version of this Prom will be broadcast on Thursday 15th August at 2pm.
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13-Aug-2013
BBC Proms - 2013 Season: Prom 39: Prom 39 (part 2): Holst, Nishat Khan & Vaughan Williams
Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Suzy Klein East meets West in two visions of India and a portrait of London. Nishat Khan's Sitar Concerto and Vaughan Williams's London Symphony with David Atherton and The BBC National Orchestra of Wales live at the BBC Proms. Holst: Indra Nishat Khan: The Gate Of The Moon (Sitar Concerto No. 1) (BBC Commission: World Premiere) 19.45 Interval Vaughan Williams: A London Symphony (Symphony No. 2) Nishat Khan (sitar) BBC National Orchestra of Wales David Atherton (conductor) Gustav Holst's fascination with Sanskrit literature found early expression in the 1903 tone-poem Indra, composed before the first set of his Hymns from the Rig Veda (heard on Radio 3 in Proms Chamber Music no.5 Monday 12 August 13:00). Sitar virtuoso Nishat Khan is a proms verteran, having first played as a soloist in 1989. This is the first time one of his own compositions has appeard at the Proms. Writing his concerto is a dream come true: "I have a huge love and respect for the Western classical tradition, and it's a daunting challenge to find a way of combining the sitar with this beautiful, gigantic orchestral sound". He's taken a minimalist approach, with soloist partly playing composed lines and partly improvising; somtimes the forces meet in dialogue, sometimes embarking upon rhythmic exploration together, and a lot of interaction. He won't be using other indian instruments, though, rather exploiting the sounds of the orchestra. "I think of Western classical music as a huge ocean with so many different fish, plants and temperatures. Among the elements, he particularly loves the sound of the cello and the oboe, which he says combines beautifully with the sitar, bringing a "piercing nostalgia". First performed in 1914, Vaughan Williams's A London Symphony evokes the chimes of Westminster, a chill November in Bloomsbury and the bright lights of the Strand in a city that would soon be scarred by war. First half simulcast on BBC Asian Network. An edited version of this Prom will be broadcast on Thursday 15th August at 2pm.
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13-Aug-2013
BBC Proms - 2013 Season: Proms Chamber Music: PCM 05: 5. Holst, Harrison Birtwistle
The Nash Ensemble and the BBC Singers join forces for a programme of 20th-century and contemporary works alongside two choral gems from the Tudor period. Live from Cadogan Hall, London Presented by Petroc Trelawny Gustav Holst: Choral Hymns from the Rig Veda (Group 3) William Cornysh: Ave Maria Mater Dei Imogen Holst: Hallo, my fancy, whither wilt thou go? Walter Lambe: Stella Caeli Harrison Birtwistle: The Moth Requiem (UK premiere) BBC Singers Nash Ensemble Nicholas Kok (conductor) Nicholas Kok conducts the UK premiere of a recent work by Sir Harrison Birtwistle - an elegy to twelve extinct species of lepidoptera, commemorated through their Latin names which are set for women's voices and ensemble of three harps and alto flute. Also in the programme, Gustav Holst's ravishing set of Sanskrit words - for which he made his own translations from the ancient texts - and one of the handful of compositions left behind by his daughter, Imogen. Completing the mix, two motets from that treasury of early Tudor sacred music compiled as the Eton Choirbook - an extraordinary part of the English musical history from a period whose music was a source of fascination to all three of the other composers in this afternoon's concert.
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12-Aug-2013
BBC Proms - 2013 Season: Proms Plus Intro: Beethoven's Ninth and the RPS
Petroc Trelawny discusses the link between Beethoven and the London-based Royal Philharmonic Society with music writer Helen Wallace, while scholar Amanda Glauert provides an introduction to his Symphony No. 9, a product from that fruitful relationship.
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12-Aug-2013
BBC Proms - 2013 Season: Prom 38: Prom 38 (part 2): Free Prom - Beethoven's Ninth Symphony
Beethoven's Ninth Symphony: National Youth Orchestra of Great Britain, youth choirs and soloists Lisa Milne, Jennifer Johnston, Toby Spence and Gerald Finley live at the BBC Proms. Plus music by Vaughan Williams and a world premiere by Mark-Anthony Turnage. Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Petroc Trelawny Vaughan Williams: Toward The Unknown Region Mark-Anthony Turnage: Frieze (BBC Co-Commission With The Royal Philharmonic Society And The New York Philharmonic: World Premiere) 20.00 Interval 20.25 Beethoven: Symphony No 9 In D Minor, 'Choral' Lisa Milne (soprano) Jennifer Johnston (mezzo-sporano) Toby Spence (tenor) Gerald Finley (bass) Codetta Irish Youth Chamber Choir National Youth Choir of Great Britain National Youth Orchestra of Great Britain Vasily Petrenko (conductor) The first ever major free Prom with a host of youthful performers celebrates the bicentenary this year of the Royal Philharmonic Society with the most famous piece the Society ever played a role in commissioning - and a brand new one too. The 'most famous' is surely Beethoven's last completed Symphony, the groundbreaking Choral Symphony - for which the National Youth Orchestra of Great Britain are joined by four soloists and three youthful choirs from the UK and Ireland, including from Derry-Londonderry, the UK City of Culture 2013. The 'brand new' is by British composer Mark-Anthony Turnage, who's been 'obsessed with Beethoven from the age of 8 - what a joy, therefore, to be asked by the RPS to write a piece inspired by Beethoven's great Symphony. Beethoven is a towering figure, but I find him more inspiring than intimidating.' Turnage's title refers to the famous Beethoven Frieze created in 1902 by the Viennese artist Gustav Klimt. An edited version of this Prom will be broadcast on Tuesday 13th August at 2pm.
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12-Aug-2013
BBC Proms - 2013 Season: Prom 38: Prom 38 (part 1): Free Prom - Beethoven's Ninth Symphony
Beethoven's Ninth Symphony: National Youth Orchestra of Great Britain, youth choirs and soloists Lisa Milne, Jennifer Johnston, Toby Spence and Gerald Finley live at the BBC Proms. Plus music by Vaughan Williams and a world premiere by Mark-Anthony Turnage. Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Petroc Trelawny Vaughan Williams: Toward The Unknown Region Mark-Anthony Turnage: Frieze (BBC Co-Commission With The Royal Philharmonic Society And The New York Philharmonic: World Premiere) 20.00 Interval 20.25 Beethoven: Symphony No 9 In D Minor, 'Choral' Lisa Milne (soprano) Jennifer Johnston (mezzo-sporano) Toby Spence (tenor) Gerald Finley (bass) Codetta Irish Youth Chamber Choir National Youth Choir of Great Britain National Youth Orchestra of Great Britain Vasily Petrenko (conductor) The first ever major free Prom with a host of youthful performers celebrates the bicentenary this year of the Royal Philharmonic Society with the most famous piece the Society ever played a role in commissioning - and a brand new one too. The 'most famous' is surely Beethoven's last completed Symphony, the groundbreaking Choral Symphony - for which the National Youth Orchestra of Great Britain are joined by four soloists and three youthful choirs from the UK and Ireland, including from Derry-Londonderry, the UK City of Culture 2013. The 'brand new' is by British composer Mark-Anthony Turnage, who's been 'obsessed with Beethoven from the age of 8 - what a joy, therefore, to be asked by the RPS to write a piece inspired by Beethoven's great Symphony. Beethoven is a towering figure, but I find him more inspiring than intimidating.' Turnage's title refers to the famous Beethoven Frieze created in 1902 by the Viennese artist Gustav Klimt. An edited version of this Prom will be broadcast on Tuesday 13th August at 2pm.
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11-Aug-2013
BBC Proms - 2013 Season: Proms Plus Intro: An Introduction to Urban Classics
Roger Wright, Director, BBC Proms, together with guests Claire Whitaker from Serious and Nii Sackey from Bigga Fish introduce tonight's Prom on Urban Classics - music taken from the vibrant, cross-cultural UK scene - performed by the BBC Symphony Orchestra under conductor Jules Buckley.
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11-Aug-2013
BBC Proms - 2013 Season: Prom 37: Prom 37 (part 2): Urban Classics Prom
Urban Classics Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Andrew McGregor Fazer, Laura Mvula, BBC SO and Jules Buckley live at the BBC proms Mosolov: The Iron Foundry Maverick Sabre Arr. Ben Cottrell: These Days Laura Mvula Arr. Tom Richards: Sing to the Moon Jacob Banks Arr. Ben Cottrell : Rainy Day Fazer Arr. Jules Buckley: Fireflies Lady Leshurr Arr. Jason Yarde: Blazin' Wretch 32 Arr. Tom Trapp: Blackout Laura Mvula Arr. Jules Buckley: Father Father 20.30 Interval 20.50 Henze: The Bassarids: Dance of the Maenads Lady Leshurr: Solo Maverick Sabre Arr. Tom Trapp: I Need Fazer Arr. Ben Cottrell : Movie Fazer & Young Artists: Chapters Jacob Banks Arr. Jules Buckley: Worthy Wretch 32 & Jacob Banks Arr. Jason Yarde: I'm Doing Ok Laura Mvula Arr. Jules Buckley: That's Alright Maverick Sabre Arr. Jules Buckley: Let Me Go Wretch 32 Arr. Jason Yarde: Traktor Labrinth Feat. Lady Leshurr Arr. Ben Cottrell: Let the Dogs Run Wild Jules Buckley: Finale Fazer (singer) Laura Mvula (singer) Maverick Sabre (singer) Lady Leshurr (singer) Wretch 32 (singer) Jacob Banks (singer) BBC Symphony Orchestra Jules Buckley (conductor) A dynamic meeting of musical cultures as conductor Jules Buckley brings together the BBC Symphony Orchestra with leading performers from the UK's vibrant urban music scene. In Urban Classics' experimental fusion of musical styles, high-octane orchestral showpieces by Mosolov and Henze rub shoulders with rap, R&B and soul. 'It's a culture clash,' says Jules Buckley. 'We're taking artists from different worlds and messing with their music, putting it in an orchestral context and exploring it in a new way.'.
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11-Aug-2013
BBC Proms - 2013 Season: Prom 37: Prom 37 (part 1): Urban Classics Prom
Urban Classics Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Andrew McGregor Fazer, Laura Mvula, BBC SO and Jules Buckley live at the BBC proms Mosolov: The Iron Foundry Maverick Sabre Arr. Ben Cottrell: These Days Laura Mvula Arr. Tom Richards: Sing to the Moon Jacob Banks Arr. Ben Cottrell : Rainy Day Fazer Arr. Jules Buckley: Fireflies Lady Leshurr Arr. Jason Yarde: Blazin' Wretch 32 Arr. Tom Trapp: Blackout Laura Mvula Arr. Jules Buckley: Father Father 20.30 Interval 20.50 Henze: The Bassarids: Dance of the Maenads Lady Leshurr: Solo Maverick Sabre Arr. Tom Trapp: I Need Fazer Arr. Ben Cottrell : Movie Fazer & Young Artists: Chapters Jacob Banks Arr. Jules Buckley: Worthy Wretch 32 & Jacob Banks Arr. Jason Yarde: I'm Doing Ok Laura Mvula Arr. Jules Buckley: That's Alright Maverick Sabre Arr. Jules Buckley: Let Me Go Wretch 32 Arr. Jason Yarde: Traktor Labrinth Feat. Lady Leshurr Arr. Ben Cottrell: Let the Dogs Run Wild Jules Buckley: Finale Fazer (singer) Laura Mvula (singer) Maverick Sabre (singer) Lady Leshurr (singer) Wretch 32 (singer) Jacob Banks (singer) BBC Symphony Orchestra Jules Buckley (conductor) A dynamic meeting of musical cultures as conductor Jules Buckley brings together the BBC Symphony Orchestra with leading performers from the UK's vibrant urban music scene. In Urban Classics' experimental fusion of musical styles, high-octane orchestral showpieces by Mosolov and Henze rub shoulders with rap, R&B and soul. 'It's a culture clash,' says Jules Buckley. 'We're taking artists from different worlds and messing with their music, putting it in an orchestral context and exploring it in a new way.'.
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11-Aug-2013
BBC Proms - 2013 Season: Proms Saturday Matinees: PSM03: 3. Camerata Ireland
Alison Balsom, Camerata Ireland, and Barry Douglas, live at the BBC proms, play music by Britten and his contemporaries. Live from Cadogan Hall, London Presented by Clemency Burton-Hill Britten: Young Apollo Lennox Berkeley: Serenade For Strings Shostakovich: Concerto For Piano, Trumpet and Strings (Piano Concerto No. 1) Priaulx Rainier: Movement For Strings (World Premiere) Britten: Variations on a Theme of Frank Bridge Alison Balsom (trumpet) Barry Douglas (piano/director) Camerata Ireland Pianist Barry Douglas directs Camerata Ireland in its Proms debut with a programme continuing the season's focus on the music of Benjamin Britten and his contemporaries. Withdrawn from performance for 40 years after its 1939 premiere, Britten's Young Apollo opens a sequence of works of brittle, edgy beauty, including the world premiere of Priaulx Rainier's 1951 Movement for strings. Lennox Berkeley's Serenade for strings and Britten's Variations on a Theme of Frank Bridge frame a performance of Shostakovich's Piano Concerto No.1, whose witty trumpet part is played by Alison Balsom. An edited version of this Prom will be broadcast on Wednesday 14th August at 2pm.
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10-Aug-2013
BBC Proms - 2013 Season: Prom 36: John Eliot Gardiner Conducts Bach
Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Catherine Bott Monteverdi Choir, English Baroque Soloists & Sir John Eliot Gardiner live at the BBC Proms in two oratorios by J S Bach - telling the story of Easter and the Ascension of Christ. J. S. Bach: Easter Oratorio J. S. Bach: Ascension Oratorio Hannah Morrison (soprano) Meg Bragle (alto) Nicholas Mulroy (tenor) Peter Harvey (bass) Monteverdi Choir English Baroque Soloists Sir John Eliot Gardiner (conductor) Sir John Eliot Gardiner's acclaimed Bach team - most famous for their year-long 'Bach Pilgrimage' in 2000, performing every one of Bach's cantatas - reassemble at the Royal Albert Hall for another Bach feast. On the bill are two complementary oratorios, telling the story of two crucial events in the life of Christ: the Resurrection on Easter Day, and his Ascension into Heaven.
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10-Aug-2013
BBC Proms - 2013 Season: BBC Proms Inspire Young Composers
The Aurora Orchestra under Nicholas Collon perfoms the winning entries in the 2013 BBC Proms Inspire Young Composers' Competition. Plus a visit to some of the Inspire events.
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10-Aug-2013
BBC Proms - 2013 Season: Proms Plus Intro: Mahler's Resurrection Symphony
James Jolly talks to Norman Lebrecht and Jeremy Barham about Mahler's conversion from Judaism to Christianity, spirituality and the social context of the Resurrection Symphony. Recorded earlier this evening at the Proms Plus event in the Amaryllis Fleming Concert Hall of the Royal College of Music.
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10-Aug-2013
BBC Proms - 2013 Season: Prom 35: Mahler - Resurrection Symphony
The Bavarian Radio Symphony Orchestra and Choir with conductor Mariss Jansons live at the BBC Proms in Mahler's transcendental Symphony no.2 'Resurrection'. Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London. Presented by Christopher Cook. Mahler: Symphony No. 2 in C minor, 'Resurrection' Genia Kühmeier (soprano) Gerhild Romberger (contralto) Bavarian Radio Symphony Chorus Bavarian Radio Symphony Orchestra Mariss Jansons (conductor) In the second of their two Proms appearances, Mariss Jansons and the Bavarian Radio Symphony Orchestra are joined by the Bavarian Radio Symphony Choir for Mahler's magnificent 2nd Symphony, the 'Resurrection' Symphony. It begins with a depiction of a funeral procession and opens out into a vision of life after death, with soprano and alto soloists joining for the last two movements and a choral climax making an unmissable impact. An edited version of this Prom will be broadcast on Monday 12th August at 2pm.
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09-Aug-2013
BBC Proms - 2013 Season: Prom 34: Vivaldi - The Four Seasons
Nigel Kennedy, Palestine Strings & Members of the Orchestra of Life, live at the BBC Proms with Vivaldi's Four Seasons. Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London. Presented by Martin Handley. Vivaldi: The Four Seasons Nigel Kennedy Palestine Strings Members of the Orchestra of Life Following his two Proms appearances in 2008 and his more recent one in 2011 to play solo Bach, Nigel Kennedy returns with Vivaldi's The Four Seasons - with the Palestine Strings from the Edward Said National Conservatory of Music as well as members of his own Orchestra of Life. Revisiting a work he recorded to great acclaim nearly 25 years ago, Kennedy brings fresh insights to these visionary concertos, including the addition of his own improvised links between them.
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09-Aug-2013
BBC Proms - 2013 Season: Prom 33: Prom 33 (part 2): Beethoven, Berlioz
Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London. Presented by Christopher Cook. The pianist Mitsuko Uchida returns to the Proms after a long absence, joining the Bavarian Radio Symphony and Mariss Jansons for Beethoven's fourth piano concerto. The concert concludes with Berlioz's gothic masterpiece, his Symphonie fantastique. Beethoven: Piano Concerto No. 4 in G major 7.40pm Interval 8.00pm Berlioz: Symphonie fantastique Mitsuko Uchida (piano) Bavarian Radio Symphony Orchestra Mariss Jansons (conductor) Mitsuko Uchida is a much loved figure on the concert platform, and this evening she returns to the Proms after an absence of almost 20 years, joining the Bavarian Radio Symphony for Beethoven's Piano Concerto no.4, in which musical ideas are tested to their limits in a dialogue between the keyboard and orchestra. The rest of the programme is devoted to Berlioz's monumental Symphonie fantastique, complete with opium-fuelled obsessions, a rural idyll and a danse macabre. The conductor Mariss Jansons, who celebrates his 70th birthday this year, is a regular at the Proms, and he demonstrates the closeness of his 10 year partnership with the Bavarian orchestra. An edited version of this Prom will be broadcast on Sunday 11th August at 2pm.
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09-Aug-2013
BBC Proms - 2013 Season: Proms Plus Literary: Sylvia Plath
To mark the 50th anniversary of the death of Sylvia Plath and the publication of her novel, The Bell Jar, the writer, Lavinia Greenlaw and the critic, Sally Bayley, look back on the legacy of a remarkable poet with readings by Buffy Davis. Born in Boston in 1932 Plath moved to England to study at Cambridge where she met and married the poet Ted Hughes. Her first collection of poems, Colossus, was published here in 1960. In 1962 she wrote most of the poems which would form her best known collection, Ariel. She died in February 1963 during one of the most severe winters on record in Britain. Ariel and The Bell Jar were published after her death. Recorded in front of an audience at the Royal College of Music as part of this year's Proms Plus events.
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09-Aug-2013
BBC Proms - 2013 Season: Prom 33: Prom 33 (part 1): Beethoven, Berlioz
Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London. Presented by Christopher Cook. The pianist Mitsuko Uchida returns to the Proms after a long absence, joining the Bavarian Radio Symphony and Mariss Jansons for Beethoven's fourth piano concerto. The concert concludes with Berlioz's gothic masterpiece, his Symphonie fantastique. Beethoven: Piano Concerto No. 4 in G major 7.40pm Interval 8.00pm Berlioz: Symphonie fantastique Mitsuko Uchida (piano) Bavarian Radio Symphony Orchestra Mariss Jansons (conductor) Mitsuko Uchida is a much loved figure on the concert platform, and this evening she returns to the Proms after an absence of almost 20 years, joining the Bavarian Radio Symphony for Beethoven's Piano Concerto no.4, in which musical ideas are tested to their limits in a dialogue between the keyboard and orchestra. The rest of the programme is devoted to Berlioz's monumental Symphonie fantastique, complete with opium-fuelled obsessions, a rural idyll and a danse macabre. The conductor Mariss Jansons, who celebrates his 70th birthday this year, is a regular at the Proms, and he demonstrates the closeness of his 10 year partnership with the Bavarian orchestra. An edited version of this Prom will be broadcast on Sunday 11th August at 2pm.
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08-Aug-2013
BBC Proms - 2013 Season: Proms Plus Late: 3. The Sam Watts Quintet and poet Amy Blakemore
Georgia Mann presents a session of jazz and poetry with the Sam Watts Quintet, featuring Sam Watts, piano; Thomas Seminar Ford, guitar; Lucia Capellaro, cello; Flo Moore, bass; Ben Brown, drums. Also in the session, the poet Amy Blakemore.
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08-Aug-2013
BBC Proms - 2013 Season: Prom 32: Prom 32 (part 2): Lutoslawski & Holst
The BBC Symphony Orchestra and Edward Gardner perform music by Holst, including The Planets, live at the BBC Proms. Louis Lortie is the soloist in Lutoslawski's Piano Concerto. Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Suzy Klein Lutoslawski: Symphonic Variations Holst: Egdon Heath Lutoslawski: Piano Concerto 8.35m Interval 8.55pm Holst: The Planets Louis Lortie (piano) BBC Symphony Chorus (women's voices) BBC Symphony Orchestra Edward Gardner (conductor) Leading champion of Lutoslawski's music and Music Director of English National Opera, Edward Gardner conducts the BBC Symphony Orchestra in a programme contrasting one each of the Polish composer's earliest and latest works with music by the British composer Gustav Holst. Completed shortly before the occupation of Poland, Lutoslawski's Symphonic Variations is juxtaposed with Holst's rarely heard tribute to Thomas Hardy, Egdon Heath. Louis Lortie is the soloist in Lutoslawski's monumental 1988 Piano Concerto in a concert that closes with Holst's extraordinarily visionary suite, The Planets. An edited version of this Prom will be broadcast on Friday 9th August at 2pm.
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08-Aug-2013
BBC Proms - 2013 Season: Prom 32: Prom 32 (part 1): Lutoslawski & Holst
The BBC Symphony Orchestra and Edward Gardner perform music by Holst, including The Planets, live at the BBC Proms. Louis Lortie is the soloist in Lutoslawski's Piano Concerto. Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Suzy Klein Lutoslawski: Symphonic Variations Holst: Egdon Heath Lutoslawski: Piano Concerto 8.35m Interval 8.55pm Holst: The Planets Louis Lortie (piano) BBC Symphony Chorus (women's voices) BBC Symphony Orchestra Edward Gardner (conductor) Leading champion of Lutoslawski's music and Music Director of English National Opera, Edward Gardner conducts the BBC Symphony Orchestra in a programme contrasting one each of the Polish composer's earliest and latest works with music by the British composer Gustav Holst. Completed shortly before the occupation of Poland, Lutoslawski's Symphonic Variations is juxtaposed with Holst's rarely heard tribute to Thomas Hardy, Egdon Heath. Louis Lortie is the soloist in Lutoslawski's monumental 1988 Piano Concerto in a concert that closes with Holst's extraordinarily visionary suite, The Planets. An edited version of this Prom will be broadcast on Friday 9th August at 2pm.
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07-Aug-2013
BBC Proms - 2013 Season: Prom 31: Prom 31 (part 2): Walton, Rubbra, Bruch & Korngold
The BBC Philharmonic and John Storgårds, live at the BBC Proms, perform Walton's 'Orb and Sceptre', Rubbra's 'Ode to the Queen', Bruch's Violin Concerto No 1 and Korngold's Symphony. Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Martin Handley Walton: March 'Orb and Sceptre' Rubbra: Ode to the Queen Bruch: Violin Concerto No 1 in G minor 8.25pm Interval 8.45pm Korngold: Symphony in F sharp minor Vilde Frang (violin) Susan Bickley (mezzo-soprano) BBC Philharmonic John Storgårds (conductor) The BBC Philharmonic and its Principal Guest Conductor return to the Royal Albert Hall for the first Proms performance of Korngold's Symphony. Dedicated to the memory of Franklin D Roosevelt, the symphony refers back to Korngold's score for the 1939 Errol Flynn and Bette Davis romance 'The Private Lives of Elizabeth and Essex'. Rubbra's 'Ode to the Queen' and Walton's 'Orb and Sceptre' celebrate the 60th anniversary of the Queen's coronation, while Vilde Frang joins Storgårds and the orchestra for Bruch's ever-popular Violin Concerto.
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07-Aug-2013
BBC Proms - 2013 Season: Prom 31: Prom 31 (part 1): Walton, Rubbra, Bruch & Korngold
The BBC Philharmonic and John Storgårds, live at the BBC Proms, perform Walton's 'Orb and Sceptre', Rubbra's 'Ode to the Queen', Bruch's Violin Concerto No 1 and Korngold's Symphony. Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Martin Handley Walton: March 'Orb and Sceptre' Rubbra: Ode to the Queen Bruch: Violin Concerto No 1 in G minor 8.25pm Interval 8.45pm Korngold: Symphony in F sharp minor Vilde Frang (violin) Susan Bickley (mezzo-soprano) BBC Philharmonic John Storgårds (conductor) The BBC Philharmonic and its Principal Guest Conductor return to the Royal Albert Hall for the first Proms performance of Korngold's Symphony. Dedicated to the memory of Franklin D Roosevelt, the symphony refers back to Korngold's score for the 1939 Errol Flynn and Bette Davis romance 'The Private Lives of Elizabeth and Essex'. Rubbra's 'Ode to the Queen' and Walton's 'Orb and Sceptre' celebrate the 60th anniversary of the Queen's coronation, while Vilde Frang joins Storgårds and the orchestra for Bruch's ever-popular Violin Concerto.
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06-Aug-2013
BBC Proms - 2013 Season: Prom 30: Prom 30 (part 2): Borodin, Prokofiev, Edward Cowie & Tchaikovsky
The BBC Philharmonic and Gianandrea Noseda, live at the BBC Proms, perform works by Borodin, Prokofiev, Edward Cowie and Tchaikovsky. Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Katie Derham Borodin: Overture and Polovtsian Dances from 'Prince Igor' Prokofiev: Piano Concerto No 2 8.30pm Interval 8.50pm Edward Cowie: Earth Music 1: The Great Barrier Reef (BBC commission: world premiere) Tchaikovsky: Symphony No 2 in C minor, 'Little Russian' Jean-Efflam Bavouzet (piano) BBC Philharmonic Gianandrea Noseda (conductor) Borodin's overture to 'Prince Igor' opens a programme celebrating the 70th birthday of composer Edward Cowie and the close musical relationship between the BBC Philharmonic, their Conductor Laureate Gianandrea Noseda and pianist Jean-Efflam Bavouzet. Bavouzet plays Prokofiev's brilliant Second Piano Concerto, its original score destroyed in the Russian Revolution and revised by the composer in Paris in 1923. The fragile beauty of the Great Barrier Reef is the subject of Edward Cowie's Earth Music 1, while the 'Little Russian' continues the season's Tchaikovsky symphony cycle. Repeated tomorrow at 2pm.
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06-Aug-2013
BBC Proms - 2013 Season: Prom 30: Prom 30 (part 1): Borodin, Prokofiev, Edward Cowie & Tchaikovsky
The BBC Philharmonic and Gianandrea Noseda, live at the BBC Proms, perform works by Borodin, Prokofiev, Edward Cowie and Tchaikovsky. Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Katie Derham Borodin: Overture and Polovtsian Dances from 'Prince Igor' Prokofiev: Piano Concerto No 2 8.30pm Interval 8.50pm Edward Cowie: Earth Music 1: The Great Barrier Reef (BBC commission: world premiere) Tchaikovsky: Symphony No 2 in C minor, 'Little Russian' Jean-Efflam Bavouzet (piano) BBC Philharmonic Gianandrea Noseda (conductor) Borodin's overture to 'Prince Igor' opens a programme celebrating the 70th birthday of composer Edward Cowie and the close musical relationship between the BBC Philharmonic, their Conductor Laureate Gianandrea Noseda and pianist Jean-Efflam Bavouzet. Bavouzet plays Prokofiev's brilliant Second Piano Concerto, its original score destroyed in the Russian Revolution and revised by the composer in Paris in 1923. The fragile beauty of the Great Barrier Reef is the subject of Edward Cowie's Earth Music 1, while the 'Little Russian' continues the season's Tchaikovsky symphony cycle. Repeated tomorrow at 2pm.
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06-Aug-2013
BBC Proms - 2013 Season: Proms Chamber Music: PCM 04: 4. tenThing
All-female 10-piece brass ensemble tenThing live from Cadogan Hall, London. Presented by Petroc Trelawny. Grieg: Holberg Suite - Praeludium Grieg: Lyric Pieces - Grandmother's Minuet, Op. 68 No. 2 Grieg: 19 Norwegian Folk Songs - Gjendine's Lullaby, Op. 66 No. 19 Grieg: Lyric Pieces - March of the Dwarfs, Op. 54 No. 3 Diana Burrell: Blaze (BBC commission: world premiere) Weill: The Threepenny Opera - suite Piazzolla: Oblivion Bizet: Carmen - Suite No. 2 tenThing Ahead of her Royal Albert Hall concerto debut later this month, Norwegian trumpeter Tine Thing Helseth brings her all-female 10-piece brass ensemble tenThing to Cadogan Hall. A bold new work by the British composer Diana Burrell is the centrepiece of a virtuosic programme of tangos, seguidillas, habaneras and serenades from Grieg, Piazzolla and Bizet. Repeated on Saturday at 2pm.
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05-Aug-2013
BBC Proms - 2013 Season: Prom 29: Prom 29 (part 3): Wagner - Tannhauser
Wagner 200 Donald Runnicles brings together an international cast and the Concert Association of the Chorus of the Deutsche Oper Berlin, where he is General Music Director, in this concert performance of Wagner's opera Tannhäuser. Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London. Presented by Louise Fryer. Wagner: Tannhäuser, Act 1 7.05pm: Interval 7.35pm Wagner: Tannhäuser, Act 2 8.45pm: Interval 9.15pm Wagner: Tannhäuser, Act 3 Tannhäuser ..... Robert Dean Smith(tenor) Elisabeth ..... Heidi Melton (soprano) Venus ..... Daniela Sindram (soprano) Landgraf ..... Ain Anger (bass) Wolfram ..... Christoph Pohl (baritone) Walter ..... Thomas Blondelle (tenor) Heinrich ..... Andrew Rees (tenor) Reimar ..... Brian Bannatyne-Scott (bass) Biterolf ..... Ashley Holland (bass) Shepherd Boy ..... Hila Fahima (soprano) Concert Association of the Chorus of the Deutsche Oper Berlin BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra Donald Runnicles (conductor) Knightly minstrel Tannhäuser has been lover of the godess Venus for a year and a day when he invokes the name of the Virgin Mary and is sent back to the mortal world. There he is reunited with Elisabeth, niece of Landgraf, and a singing tournament is arranged with her hand as the prize. When Tannhäuser sings in praise of Venus he is forced to become a pilgrim and seek absolution from the Pope in Rome .....
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05-Aug-2013
BBC Proms - 2013 Season: Prom 29: Prom 29 (part 2): Wagner - Tannhauser
Wagner 200 Donald Runnicles brings together an international cast and the Concert Association of the Chorus of the Deutsche Oper Berlin, where he is General Music Director, in this concert performance of Wagner's opera Tannhäuser. Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London. Presented by Louise Fryer. Wagner: Tannhäuser, Act 1 7.05pm: Interval 7.35pm Wagner: Tannhäuser, Act 2 8.45pm: Interval 9.15pm Wagner: Tannhäuser, Act 3 Tannhäuser ..... Robert Dean Smith(tenor) Elisabeth ..... Heidi Melton (soprano) Venus ..... Daniela Sindram (soprano) Landgraf ..... Ain Anger (bass) Wolfram ..... Christoph Pohl (baritone) Walter ..... Thomas Blondelle (tenor) Heinrich ..... Andrew Rees (tenor) Reimar ..... Brian Bannatyne-Scott (bass) Biterolf ..... Ashley Holland (bass) Shepherd Boy ..... Hila Fahima (soprano) Concert Association of the Chorus of the Deutsche Oper Berlin BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra Donald Runnicles (conductor) Knightly minstrel Tannhäuser has been lover of the godess Venus for a year and a day when he invokes the name of the Virgin Mary and is sent back to the mortal world. There he is reunited with Elisabeth, niece of Landgraf, and a singing tournament is arranged with her hand as the prize. When Tannhäuser sings in praise of Venus he is forced to become a pilgrim and seek absolution from the Pope in Rome .....
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05-Aug-2013
BBC Proms - 2013 Season: Proms Plus Intro: Wagner 200: Introduction to Tannhauser
Wagner 200 James Jolly discusses Wagner's Tannhäuser with Peggy Reynolds and Simon Rees. Recorded earlier this evening at the Proms Plus event in the Amaryllis Fleming Concert Hall of the Royal College of Music.
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05-Aug-2013
BBC Proms - 2013 Season: Prom 29: Prom 29 (part 1): Wagner - Tannhauser
Wagner 200 Donald Runnicles brings together an international cast and the Concert Association of the Chorus of the Deutsche Oper Berlin, where he is General Music Director, in this concert performance of Wagner's opera Tannhäuser. Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London. Presented by Louise Fryer. Wagner: Tannhäuser, Act 1 7.05pm: Interval 7.35pm Wagner: Tannhäuser, Act 2 8.45pm: Interval 9.15pm Wagner: Tannhäuser, Act 3 Tannhäuser ..... Robert Dean Smith(tenor) Elisabeth ..... Heidi Melton (soprano) Venus ..... Daniela Sindram (soprano) Landgraf ..... Ain Anger (bass) Wolfram ..... Christoph Pohl (baritone) Walter ..... Thomas Blondelle (tenor) Heinrich ..... Andrew Rees (tenor) Reimar ..... Brian Bannatyne-Scott (bass) Biterolf ..... Ashley Holland (bass) Shepherd Boy ..... Hila Fahima (soprano) Concert Association of the Chorus of the Deutsche Oper Berlin BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra Donald Runnicles (conductor) Knightly minstrel Tannhäuser has been lover of the godess Venus for a year and a day when he invokes the name of the Virgin Mary and is sent back to the mortal world. There he is reunited with Elisabeth, niece of Landgraf, and a singing tournament is arranged with her hand as the prize. When Tannhäuser sings in praise of Venus he is forced to become a pilgrim and seek absolution from the Pope in Rome .....
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04-Aug-2013
BBC Proms - 2013 Season: Prom 28: Prom 28 (part 2): J Strauss II, James MacMillan & Beethoven
Vadim Repin, BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra and Donald Runnicles live at the BBC Proms. Music includes a performance of James MacMillan's Violin Concerto. Live from the Royal Albert Hall Presented by Petroc Trelawny Johann Strauss II: By the Beautiful Blue Danube - waltz James MacMillan: Violin Concerto 8.10pm Interval 8.30 pm Beethoven: Overture 'Coriolan' Beethoven: Symphony No. 5 in C minor Vadim Repin (violin) BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra Donald Runnicles (conductor) A renowned interpreter of Austro-German repertoire, Donald Runnicles opens this concert with arguably the most famous waltz in the world - The Blue Danube - and the evening ends with the symphony which has one of the most recognisable openings of all time, Beethoven's Fifth. James MacMillan's Violin Concerto, which was premiered by Vadim Repin in 2010, is the centrepiece of the concert. The concerto is influenced strongly by Scottish traditional music, as the composer says "Fiddle music has long been under my skin, and in writing a violin concerto it is inevitable that it would rise up to the surface. Its roots are in song and dance, and these most ancient modes of expression and storytelling are at the heart of my new work." An edited version of this Prom will be broadcast on Monday 5th August at 2pm.
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04-Aug-2013
BBC Proms - 2013 Season: Proms Plus Literary: 03/08/2013
In 1818 Beethoven's 25 Scottish Songs set to music the words of writers like Robert Burns and James Hogg. Robert Crawford and Fiona Stafford discuss how the Romantic Movement linked the composer with the poetry of Scottish writers like Burns, James Macpherson and Walter Scott. Susan Hitch presents. Recorded in front of an audience at the Royal College of Music as part of this year's Proms Plus events.
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04-Aug-2013
BBC Proms - 2013 Season: Prom 28: Prom 28 (part 1): J Strauss II, James MacMillan & Beethoven
Vadim Repin, BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra and Donald Runnicles live at the BBC Proms. Music includes a performance of James MacMillan's Violin Concerto. Live from the Royal Albert Hall Presented by Petroc Trelawny Johann Strauss II: By the Beautiful Blue Danube - waltz James MacMillan: Violin Concerto 8.10pm Interval 8.30 pm Beethoven: Overture 'Coriolan' Beethoven: Symphony No. 5 in C minor Vadim Repin (violin) BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra Donald Runnicles (conductor) A renowned interpreter of Austro-German repertoire, Donald Runnicles opens this concert with arguably the most famous waltz in the world - The Blue Danube - and the evening ends with the symphony which has one of the most recognisable openings of all time, Beethoven's Fifth. James MacMillan's Violin Concerto, which was premiered by Vadim Repin in 2010, is the centrepiece of the concert. The concerto is influenced strongly by Scottish traditional music, as the composer says "Fiddle music has long been under my skin, and in writing a violin concerto it is inevitable that it would rise up to the surface. Its roots are in song and dance, and these most ancient modes of expression and storytelling are at the heart of my new work." An edited version of this Prom will be broadcast on Monday 5th August at 2pm.
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04-Aug-2013
BBC Proms - 2013 Season: Proms Saturday Matinees: PSM 02: 2. Britten, Tippett, Holst and L Berkeley
Britten 100 Live from Cadogan Hall, London Presented by Clemency Burton-Hill Sarah Connolly, Britten Sinfonia and Sian Edwards live from Cadogan Hall, London. Featuring music by Britten and his peers, Holst, Lennox Berkeley and Tippett. Britten: Prelude and Fugue Holst: St Paul's Suite Lennox Berkeley: Four Poems of St.Teresa of Avila Tippett: Fantasia concertante on a Theme of Corelli Britten: Phaedra Sarah Connolly (mezzo-soprano) Britten Sinfonia Sian Edwards (conductor) Today's Proms Saturday Matinee features mezzo-soprano Sarah Connolly in two great British works for voice and string orchestra - Britten's final vocal work Phaedra, and a rare chance to hear Lennox Berkeley's Four Poems of St Teresa of Avila. Plus the Britten Sinfonia perform some staples of the string repertoire - Holst's St Paul's Suite and Tippett's Fantasia Concertante on a Theme of Corelli. An edited version of this Prom will be broadcast on Wednesday 7th August at 2pm.
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03-Aug-2013
BBC Proms - 2013 Season: Prom 27: Prom 27 (part 3): Naresh Sohal, Rachmaninov & Tchaikovsky
The Royal Scottish National Orchestra and Peter Oundjian live at the BBC Proms, continuing the Proms Tchaikovsky symphony cycle with the Fifth, and Rachmaninov's Third Piano Concerto. Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Clemency Burton-Hill Sohal: The Cosmic Dance (BBC commission: world premiere) 8.15pm Interval (see separate billing) 8.35pm Rachmaninov: Piano Concerto No. 3 in D minor 9.25pm Interval (including Twenty Minutes - see separate billing) 9.50pm Tchaikovsky: Symphony No. 5 in E minor Nikolai Lugansky (piano) Royal Scottish National Orchestra Peter Oundjian (conductor) The Proms Tchaikovsky symphony cycle continues with a performance of the melancholy Fifth Symphony. The Royal Scottish National Orchestra is conducted by Peter Oundjian who makes his Proms debut. The concert begins with a commission by Punjabi-born British composer Naresh Sohal in a work which examines the idea of creation: The Cosmic Dance. The second part of the concert is devoted to Rachmaninov's hugely demanding Third Piano Concerto, its haunting opening melody based on an old traditional Russian chant. Russian pianist Nikolai Lugansky is the soloist. An edited version of this Prom will be broadcast on Sunday 4th August at 2pm.
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03-Aug-2013
BBC Proms - 2013 Season: Prom 27: Prom 27 (part 2): Naresh Sohal, Rachmaninov & Tchaikovsky
The Royal Scottish National Orchestra and Peter Oundjian live at the BBC Proms, continuing the Proms Tchaikovsky symphony cycle with the Fifth, and Rachmaninov's Third Piano Concerto. Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Clemency Burton-Hill Sohal: The Cosmic Dance (BBC commission: world premiere) 8.15pm Interval 8.35pm Rachmaninov: Piano Concerto No. 3 in D minor 9.25pm Interval 9.50pm Tchaikovsky: Symphony No. 5 in E minor Nikolai Lugansky (piano) Royal Scottish National Orchestra Peter Oundjian (conductor) The Proms Tchaikovsky symphony cycle continues with a performance of the melancholy Fifth Symphony. The Royal Scottish National Orchestra is conducted by Peter Oundjian who makes his Proms debut. The concert begins with a commission by Punjabi-born British composer Naresh Sohal in a work which examines the idea of creation: The Cosmic Dance. The second part of the concert is devoted to Rachmaninov's hugely demanding Third Piano Concerto, its haunting opening melody based on an old traditional Russian chant. Russian pianist Nikolai Lugansky is the soloist. An edited version of this Prom will be broadcast on Sunday 4th August at 2pm.
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03-Aug-2013
BBC Proms - 2013 Season: Prom 27: Prom 27 (part 1): Naresh Sohal, Rachmaninov & Tchaikovsky
The Royal Scottish National Orchestra and Peter Oundjian live at the BBC Proms, continuing the Proms Tchaikovsky symphony cycle with the Fifth, and Rachmaninov's Third Piano Concerto. Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Clemency Burton-Hill Sohal: The Cosmic Dance (BBC commission: world premiere) 8.15pm Interval 8.35pm Rachmaninov: Piano Concerto No. 3 in D minor 9.25pm Interval 9.50pm Tchaikovsky: Symphony No. 5 in E minor Nikolai Lugansky (piano) Royal Scottish National Orchestra Peter Oundjian (conductor) The Proms Tchaikovsky symphony cycle continues with a performance of the melancholy Fifth Symphony. The Royal Scottish National Orchestra is conducted by Peter Oundjian who makes his Proms debut. The concert begins with a commission by Punjabi-born British composer Naresh Sohal in a work which examines the idea of creation: The Cosmic Dance. The second part of the concert is devoted to Rachmaninov's hugely demanding Third Piano Concerto, its haunting opening melody based on an old traditional Russian chant. Russian pianist Nikolai Lugansky is the soloist. An edited version of this Prom will be broadcast on Sunday 4th August at 2pm.
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02-Aug-2013
BBC Proms - 2013 Season: Proms Plus Literary: Michael Tippett
Rana Mitter introduces an anthology of unexpected readings from the letters and autobiography of the English composer Michael Tippett. With guests Ivan Hewett and Oliver Soden. Recorded in front of an audience at the Royal College of Music as part of this year's Proms Plus events.
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02-Aug-2013
BBC Proms - 2013 Season: Prom 26: Prom 26 (part 2): Henze, Stravinsky & Tippett
Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Martin Handley The BBC Symphony Orchestra conducted by Oliver Knussen live at the BBC Proms in music by Henze, Stravinsky and Tippett. Henze: Barcarola Stravinsky: Concerto for piano and wind instruments 8.10pm Interval 8.35pm Stravinsky: Movements Tippett: Symphony No. 2 Peter Serkin (piano) BBC Symphony Orchestra Oliver Knussen (conductor) Composer-conductor Oliver Knussen directs the BBC Symphony Orchestra in Tippett's Symphony No. 2, inspired by the rhythmic energy of a Vivaldi bassline and the first in a series of works by Tippett to be featured at the 2013 BBC Proms in parallel with the Britten centenary. The celebrated American pianist Peter Serkin makes his Proms debut in Stravinsky's neo-Classical Concerto for piano and winds and compact serialist conceit Movements. Written in memory of his friend Paul Dessau, the late Hans Werner Henze's 1979 Barcarola opens this programme of 20th-century masterpieces. This Prom will be repeated on Friday 2nd August at 2pm.
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02-Aug-2013
BBC Proms - 2013 Season: Prom 26: Prom 26 (part 1): Henze, Stravinsky & Tippett
Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Martin Handley The BBC Symphony Orchestra conducted by Oliver Knussen live at the BBC Proms in music by Henze, Stravinsky and Tippett. Henze: Barcarola Stravinsky: Concerto for piano and wind instruments 8.10pm Interval 8.35pm Stravinsky: Movements Tippett: Symphony No. 2 Peter Serkin (piano) BBC Symphony Orchestra Oliver Knussen (conductor) Composer-conductor Oliver Knussen directs the BBC Symphony Orchestra in Tippett's Symphony No. 2, inspired by the rhythmic energy of a Vivaldi bassline and the first in a series of works by Tippett to be featured at the 2013 BBC Proms in parallel with the Britten centenary. The celebrated American pianist Peter Serkin makes his Proms debut in Stravinsky's neo-Classical Concerto for piano and winds and compact serialist conceit Movements. Written in memory of his friend Paul Dessau, the late Hans Werner Henze's 1979 Barcarola opens this programme of 20th-century masterpieces. This Prom will be repeated on Friday 2nd August at 2pm.
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01-Aug-2013
BBC Proms - 2013 Season: Prom 25: Zappa - The Adventures of Greggery Peccary
Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Andrew McGregor The Aurora Orchestra and Nicholas Collon live at the BBC Proms with a study by Nancarrow, Philip Glass's Symphony No 10 and Zappa's satire The Adventures of Greggery Peccary. Nancarrow, arr. Y. E. Mikhashoff: Study for Player Piano No. 7 Zappa, arr. Ali N. Askin: G-Spot Tornado Glass: Symphony No. 10 (UK premiere) Zappa, orch Ali N. Askin: The Adventures of Greggery Peccary Mitch Benn (narrator) Christopher Purves (baritone) Aurora Orchestra Nicholas Collon (conductor) The Aurora Orchestra under conductor Nicholas Collon live at the BBC Proms with an arrangement for orchestra of Conlon Nancarrow's Study for Player Piano No. 7, then Zappa's G-Spot Torando, also arranged for orchestra, followed by the UK premiere of Philip Glass's Symphony No 10. Finally, the first Proms performance of Frank Zappa's satire The Adventures of Greggery Peccary, with narrator Mitch Benn and baritone Christopher Purves.
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01-Aug-2013
BBC Proms - 2013 Season: Prom 24: Prom 24 (part 2): British Light Music
A celebration of British music with the BBC Concert Orchestra and Barry Wordsworth, including pieces written by Walton and Coates used to celebrate the coronation of the Queen 60 years ago. Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Petroc Trelawny and Ken Bruce Bantock: Pierrot of the Minute Elgar: Nursery Suite Arnold: Concerto for two pianos (three hands) 7.50pm Interval (including Proms Plus Intro - see separate billing) 8.15pm Walton: Crown Imperial Coates: The Three Elizabeths Arnold: Four English Dances, Set 1, Op. 27 Langford: Medley 'Say it with Music' Noriko Ogawa (piano) Kathryn Stott (piano) BBC Concert Orchestra Barry Wordsworth (conductor) The BBC Concert Orchestra and their Conductor Laureate Barry Wordsworth demonstrate their versatility in a mixed programme celebrating British music of different styles, including pieces written by Walton and Coates used to celebrate the coronation of Queen Elizabeth II 60 years ago, and Elgar's Nursery Suite, dedicated in 1931 to the Princesses Margaret and Elizabeth and their mother Elizabeth. The orchestra are joined by pianists Noriko Ogawa and Kathryn Stott in Malcolm Arnold's unashamedly attractive concerto and the programme ends with a celebration of old BBC radio signature tunes woven together in a medley by master arranger Gordon Langford. An edited version of this Prom will be broadcast on Thursday 1st August at 2pm.
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01-Aug-2013
BBC Proms - 2013 Season: Proms Plus Literary: Light Music at the BBC
The writers Simon Heffer and Andrew O'Hagan discuss the halcyon days of light music at the BBC and beyond with Matthew Sweet. With its jaunty melodies and cascading strings, they restore it to its proper place: the heart of British musical life. Recorded in front of an audience at the Royal College of Music as part of this year's Proms Plus events.
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01-Aug-2013
BBC Proms - 2013 Season: Prom 24: Prom 24 (part 1): British Light Music
A celebration of British music with the BBC Concert Orchestra and Barry Wordsworth, including pieces written by Walton and Coates used to celebrate the coronation of the Queen 60 years ago. Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Petroc Trelawny and Ken Bruce Bantock: Pierrot of the Minute Elgar: Nursery Suite Arnold: Concerto for two pianos (three hands) 7.50pm Interval (including Proms Plus Intro 8.15pm Walton: Crown Imperial Coates: The Three Elizabeths Arnold: Four English Dances, Set 1, Op. 27 Langford: Medley 'Say it with Music' Noriko Ogawa (piano) Kathryn Stott (piano) BBC Concert Orchestra Barry Wordsworth (conductor) The BBC Concert Orchestra and their Conductor Laureate Barry Wordsworth demonstrate their versatility in a mixed programme celebrating British music of different styles, including pieces written by Walton and Coates used to celebrate the coronation of Queen Elizabeth II 60 years ago, and Elgar's Nursery Suite, dedicated in 1931 to the Princesses Margaret and Elizabeth and their mother Elizabeth. The orchestra are joined by pianists Noriko Ogawa and Kathryn Stott in Malcolm Arnold's unashamedly attractive concerto and the programme ends with a celebration of old BBC radio signature tunes woven together in a medley by master arranger Gordon Langford. An edited version of this Prom will be broadcast on Thursday 1st August at 2pm.
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31-Jul-2013
BBC Proms - 2013 Season: Proms Plus Late: 2. Tir Eolas
Georgia Mann introduces a session with a folk ensemble from the Royal College of Music, Tir Eolas, including a line-up of vocals, flute, percussion, viola, guitar and whistle. The music session is interspersed with poetry readings by Richard O'Brien.
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31-Jul-2013
BBC Proms - 2013 Season: Prom 23: Prom 23 (part 2): Mozart, Schumann and Sibelius
Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Andrew McGregor Paul Lewis, the Mahler Chamber Orchestra and Daniel Harding live at the BBC Proms with one of Mozart's most elegant piano concertos and Sibelius's final one-movement symphony Mozart: Masonic Funeral Music, K477 Schumann: Symphony No. 2 in C major 8.15pm Interval 8.40pm Mozart: Piano Concerto No. 25 in C major, K503 Sibelius: Symphony No. 7 in C major Paul Lewis (piano) Mahler Chamber Orchestra Daniel Harding (conductor) Daniel Harding returns to the Proms after 10 years, directing the Mahler Chamber Orchestra, with which he has a long association, in a programme exploring the subtly different properties of the keys of C major and C minor. Paul Lewis is the soloist in Mozart's majestic C major Piano Concerto No 25, which contrasts with the composer's austerely beautiful Masonic Funeral Music. Two great symphonies acutely expressive of light and shade, Schumann's Second and Sibelius's Seventh, complete an imaginative and stimulating sequence of works. This Prom will be repeated on Wednesday 31st July at 2pm.
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31-Jul-2013
BBC Proms - 2013 Season: Proms Plus Intro: Mozart and Vienna
Nicholas Till and Richard Wigmore join James Jolly to explore Mozart's Vienna, seat of the Hapsburgs, administrative capital of a growing empire and centre of the musical world. It was less than a century before Mozart's birth that the Viennese and their allies drove the Turks from the gates of Vienna and pushed south creating a large empire. By the time Haydn, Mozart and Beethoven were walking its streets it had become a vibrant cosmopolitan city where the aristocracy lived in close proximity to the lower classes and catholic German speakers rubbed shoulders with immigrants from across the empire. With the ideas of the enlightenment being discussed in every coffee house and a population with money to spend, the scene was set for the composer of The Marriage of Figaro, Die Entfuhrung and The Magic Flute to entertain them. Recorded earlier this evening at the Royal College of Music.
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31-Jul-2013
BBC Proms - 2013 Season: Prom 23: Prom 23 (part 1): Mozart, Schumann and Sibelius
Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Andrew McGregor Paul Lewis, the Mahler Chamber Orchestra and Daniel Harding live at the BBC Proms with one of Mozart's most elegant piano concertos and Sibelius's final one-movement symphony Mozart: Masonic Funeral Music, K477 Schumann: Symphony No. 2 in C major 8.15pm Interval 8.40pm Mozart: Piano Concerto No. 25 in C major, K503 Sibelius: Symphony No. 7 in C major Paul Lewis (piano) Mahler Chamber Orchestra Daniel Harding (conductor) Daniel Harding returns to the Proms after 10 years, directing the Mahler Chamber Orchestra, with which he has a long association, in a programme exploring the subtly different properties of the keys of C major and C minor. Paul Lewis is the soloist in Mozart's majestic C major Piano Concerto No 25, which contrasts with the composer's austerely beautiful Masonic Funeral Music. Two great symphonies acutely expressive of light and shade, Schumann's Second and Sibelius's Seventh, complete an imaginative and stimulating sequence of works. This Prom will be repeated on Wednesday 31st July at 2pm.
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30-Jul-2013
BBC Proms - 2013 Season: Prom 22: Naturally 7
A cappella vocal group Naturally 7 live at the BBC Proms. With a soundworld that ranges from scratching and drums to brass and electric guitar all produced with just the human voice. Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Louise Fryer Who needs instruments when you have seven voices and seven bodies? Building on the heritage of gospel with a style described as 'vocal play', the group performs its own material alongside arrangements of classics including George Harrison's 'While My Guitar Gently Weeps' and Phil Collins's 'In the Air Tonight' which incorporate a range of sounds from scratching and drums to brass and electric guitar all produced with just the human voice.
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30-Jul-2013
BBC Proms - 2013 Season: Prom 21: Prom 21 (part 2): Colin Matthews, Prokofiev and Shostakovich
Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Katie Derham The BBC National Orchestra of Wales and Thomas Søndergård live at the BBC Proms with Russian masterpeices by Prokofiev and Shostakovich plus a UK premiere by Colin Matthews Colin Matthews: Turning Point (UK premiere) Prokofiev: Violin Concerto No. 2 in G minor 7.50pm Interval 8.10pm Shostakovich Symphony No. 11, 'The Year 1905' Daniel Hope (violin) BBC National Orchestra of Wales Thomas Søndergård (conductor) The BBC National Orchestra of Wales reutrns to the BBC Proms with Principal Conductor Thomas Søndergård to give the UK premiere of Colin Matthews's mercurial Turning Point. First performed in 2007 by the Concertgebouw of Amsterdam, it's a work the composer wrestled with over several years. The fast opening section came into being in 2003, but Matthews couldn't immediately find the way forward, and when he did a year later, the continuation was even faster, a whirling, scherzo-like episode. Once again, the composer ground to a halt, unable to continue. The 'turning point' came with a complete change of direction, music that was very slow and intense though based entirely on the same material that was heard earlier. The overall impression is, as Matthews puts it "of complex momentum countered by expressive simplicity". British violinist Daniel Hope has toured the world as a virtuoso soloist for many years. Acclaimed by critics as adventurous and brilliant, of probing intellect and commanding style, he's also been described as "the most exciting British string player since Jacqueline du Pré" by the Observer. Prokofiev's Second Violin Concerto was a landmark in his search for a new simplicity and a directness of expression. The flinty beauty of the concerto stands in sharp contrast to the granite heft of Shostakovich's Symphony No. 11, 'The Year 1905' written four years after the death of Joseph Stalin and studded through with revolutionary songs. This Prom will be repeated on Tuesday 30th July at 2pm.
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30-Jul-2013
BBC Proms - 2013 Season: Proms Plus Literary: The Spy Who Came in from the Cold
In a special event John le Carré celebrates the 50th anniversary of his groundbreaking Cold War espionage novel, The Spy who Came in from the Cold, the book which brought him international fame and which was described by Graham Greene as 'the best spy story I have ever read'. Anne McElvoy presents. Recorded in front of an audience at the Royal College of Music as part of this year's Proms Plus events, with readings by John Shrapnel.
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30-Jul-2013
BBC Proms - 2013 Season: Prom 21: Prom 21 (part 1): Colin Matthews, Prokofiev and Shostakovich
Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Katie Derham The BBC National Orchestra of Wales and Thomas Søndergård live at the BBC Proms with Russian masterpeices by Prokofiev and Shostakovich plus a UK premiere by Colin Matthews Colin Matthews: Turning Point (UK premiere) Prokofiev: Violin Concerto No. 2 in G minor 7.50pm Interval 8.10pm Shostakovich Symphony No. 11, 'The Year 1905' Daniel Hope (violin) BBC National Orchestra of Wales Thomas Søndergård (conductor) The BBC National Orchestra of Wales reutrns to the BBC Proms with Principal Conductor Thomas Søndergård to give the UK premiere of Colin Matthews's mercurial Turning Point. First performed in 2007 by the Concertgebouw of Amsterdam, it's a work the composer wrestled with over several years. The fast opening section came into being in 2003, but Matthews couldn't immediately find the way forward, and when he did a year later, the continuation was even faster, a whirling, scherzo-like episode. Once again, the composer ground to a halt, unable to continue. The 'turning point' came with a complete change of direction, music that was very slow and intense though based entirely on the same material that was heard earlier. The overall impression is, as Matthews puts it "of complex momentum countered by expressive simplicity". British violinist Daniel Hope has toured the world as a virtuoso soloist for many years. Acclaimed by critics as adventurous and brilliant, of probing intellect and commanding style, he's also been described as "the most exciting British string player since Jacqueline du Pré" by the Observer. Prokofiev's Second Violin Concerto was a landmark in his search for a new simplicity and a directness of expression. The flinty beauty of the concerto stands in sharp contrast to the granite heft of Shostakovich's Symphony No. 11, 'The Year 1905' written four years after the death of Joseph Stalin and studded through with revolutionary songs. This Prom will be repeated on Tuesday 30th July at 2pm.
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30-Jul-2013
BBC Proms - 2013 Season: Proms Chamber Music: PCM 03: 3. Britten Up-Close
Britten 100 Ruby Hughes, James Gilchrist, Christoph Denoth and Imogen Cooper live at the BBC Proms with a programme of bittersweet works by Benjamin Britten. Live from Cadogan Hall, London Presented by Petroc Trelawny Britten: Canticle I 'My beloved is mine' Britten: A Charm of Lullabies Britten: Night Piece (Notturno) Britten: Songs from the Chinese Britten: Canticle II 'Abraham and Isaac' Britten: Master Kilby (Folksong Arrangements, Vol. 6, England - No. 3) Ruby Hughes (mezzo-soprano) James Gilchrist (tenor) Christoph Denoth (guitar) Imogen Cooper (piano) A sequence of bittersweet works by Benjamin Britten for the third Proms Chamber Music concert, performed by a starry line-up of musicians including pianist Imogen Cooper and tenor James Gilchrist. The programme includes Britten's unnerving story of absolute faith, Abraham and Isaac, and two song-cycles - A Charm of Lullabies and Songs from the Chinese - alongside the exquisite Night Piece (Notturno) for piano.
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29-Jul-2013
BBC Proms - 2013 Season: Prom 20: Prom 20 (part 3): Wagner - Gotterdammerung
Wagner 200 Staatskapelle Berlin and Daniel Barenboim live at the BBC Proms in the final opera of Wagner's epic Ring Cycle: Götterdämmerung - The Twilight of the Gods. Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Tom Service Wagner: Götterdämmerung Prologue & Act 1 (concert performance, sung in German) 18.30 Interval 19.05 Act 2 20.10 Interval 20.45 Act 3 Brünnhilde .... Nina Stemme (soprano) Siegfried .... Andreas Schager (tenor) Hagen .... Mikhail Petrenko (bass) Gunther .... Gerd Grochowski (bass-baritone) Gutrune / Third Norn .... Anna Samuil (soprano) Alberich .... Johannes Martin Kränzle (bass-baritone) Waltraute / Second Norn .... Waltraud Meier (mezzo-soprano) First Norn .... Margarita Nekrasova (contralto) Woglinde .... Aga Mikolaj (soprano) Wellgunde .... Maria Gortsevskaya (soprano) Flosshilde .... Anna Lapkovskaja (mezzo-soprano) Royal Opera Chorus Staatskapelle Berlin Daniel Barenboim (conductor) Tom Service presents the final leg of Daniel Barenboim's Ring Cycle with the Staatskapelle Berlin - the first ever complete cycle at the BBC Proms. And it's not a happy ending: Götterdämmerung - The Twilight of the Gods - is the darkest of the four operas. The ecstatic love of Siegfried and Brünnhilde, celebrated at the end of the previous opera, is under threat from the plotting of the cunning Hagen. As the son of Alberich who created the all-powerful golden Ring, Hagen's single purpose is to regain the Ring at all costs. Soon Siegfried's fate is sealed: can Brünnhilde save the world?s.
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29-Jul-2013
BBC Proms - 2013 Season: Prom 20: Prom 20 (part 2): Wagner - Gotterdammerung
Wagner 200 Staatskapelle Berlin and Daniel Barenboim live at the BBC Proms in the final opera of Wagner's epic Ring Cycle: Götterdämmerung - The Twilight of the Gods. Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Tom Service Wagner: Götterdämmerung Prologue & Act 1 (concert performance, sung in German) 18.30 Interval 19.05 Act 2 20.10 Interval 20.45 Act 3 Brünnhilde .... Nina Stemme (soprano) Siegfried .... Andreas Schager (tenor) Hagen .... Mikhail Petrenko (bass) Gunther .... Gerd Grochowski (bass-baritone) Gutrune / Third Norn .... Anna Samuil (soprano) Alberich .... Johannes Martin Kränzle (bass-baritone) Waltraute / Second Norn .... Waltraud Meier (mezzo-soprano) First Norn .... Margarita Nekrasova (contralto) Woglinde .... Aga Mikolaj (soprano) Wellgunde .... Maria Gortsevskaya (soprano) Flosshilde .... Anna Lapkovskaja (mezzo-soprano) Royal Opera Chorus Staatskapelle Berlin Daniel Barenboim (conductor) Tom Service presents the final leg of Daniel Barenboim's Ring Cycle with the Staatskapelle Berlin - the first ever complete cycle at the BBC Proms. And it's not a happy ending: Götterdämmerung - The Twilight of the Gods - is the darkest of the four operas. The ecstatic love of Siegfried and Brünnhilde, celebrated at the end of the previous opera, is under threat from the plotting of the cunning Hagen. As the son of Alberich who created the all-powerful golden Ring, Hagen's single purpose is to regain the Ring at all costs. Soon Siegfried's fate is sealed: can Brünnhilde save the world?s.
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29-Jul-2013
BBC Proms - 2013 Season: Proms Plus Intro: Wagner 200: Introduction to Gotterdammerung
Wagner 200 Sara Mohr-Pietsch is joined by opera historian Sarah Lenton and writer and critic Philip Hensher for an introduction to tonight's opera, Götterdämmerung, the fourth and last in Wagner's Ring cycle. Recorded earlier today at the Royal College of Music.
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29-Jul-2013
BBC Proms - 2013 Season: Prom 20: Prom 20 (part 1): Wagner - Gotterdammerung
Wagner 200 Staatskapelle Berlin and Daniel Barenboim live at the BBC Proms in the final opera of Wagner's epic Ring Cycle: Götterdämmerung - The Twilight of the Gods. Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Tom Service Wagner: Götterdämmerung Prologue & Act 1 (concert performance, sung in German) 18.30 Interval 19.05 Act 2 20.10 Interval 20.45 Act 3 Brünnhilde .... Nina Stemme (soprano) Siegfried .... Andreas Schager (tenor) Hagen .... Mikhail Petrenko (bass) Gunther .... Gerd Grochowski (bass-baritone) Gutrune / Third Norn .... Anna Samuil (soprano) Alberich .... Johannes Martin Kränzle (bass-baritone) Waltraute / Second Norn .... Waltraud Meier (mezzo-soprano) First Norn .... Margarita Nekrasova (contralto) Woglinde .... Aga Mikolaj (soprano) Wellgunde .... Maria Gortsevskaya (soprano) Flosshilde .... Anna Lapkovskaja (mezzo-soprano) Royal Opera Chorus Staatskapelle Berlin Daniel Barenboim (conductor) Tom Service presents the final leg of Daniel Barenboim's Ring Cycle with the Staatskapelle Berlin - the first ever complete cycle at the BBC Proms. And it's not a happy ending: Götterdämmerung - The Twilight of the Gods - is the darkest of the four operas. The ecstatic love of Siegfried and Brünnhilde, celebrated at the end of the previous opera, is under threat from the plotting of the cunning Hagen. As the son of Alberich who created the all-powerful golden Ring, Hagen's single purpose is to regain the Ring at all costs. Soon Siegfried's fate is sealed: can Brünnhilde save the world?s.
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28-Jul-2013
BBC Proms - 2013 Season: Proms Plus Literary: Staging Wagner
Wagner's stage directions are notorious: giant dragons; underwater singing; horses on stage; storms; destruction by raging fires. Designer Peter Mumford, and Dr John Snelson from the ROH discuss the solutions available to 21st century artists and some of the famous 19th and 20th century stagings. Presented by Anne McElvoy. Recorded in front of an audience at the Royal College of Music as part of this year's Proms Plus events.
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28-Jul-2013
BBC Proms - 2013 Season: Prom 19: Prom 19: 3. Wagner - Tristan und Isolde
Wagner 200 Wagner's Tristan und Isolde performed by star soloists with the BBC Symphony Orchestra and Semyon Bychkov live at the BBC Proms. Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Martin Handley Wagner: Tristan and Isolde (concert performance, sung in German) Act 1 6.25pm Interval 7.00pm Act 2 8.20pm Interval8.55pm Act 3 Tristan .... Robert Dean Smith (tenor) King Mark.... Kwangchul Youn (bass) Isolde.... Violetta Urmana (soprano) Kurwenal.... Boaz Daniel (baritone) Melot.... David Wilson-Johnson (tenor) Brangane.... Mihoko Fujimura (soprano) Shepherd/Young Sailor.... Andrew Staples (tenor) Steersman.... Edward Price (baritone) BBC Singers (Men) BBC Symphony Chorus (Men) BBC Symphony Orchestra Semyon Bychkov (conductor) The Wagner bicentenary celebration continues with the composer's boldest fusion of legend and harmonic innovation, Tristan and Isolde, which forced him to break off work on his Ring cycle - near this very juncture in the Proms Ring, during the composition of Siegfried and before the final instalment, Götterdämmerung. Semyon Bychkov conducts the BBC Symphony Orchestra and a cast led by Violeta Urmana and Robert Dean Smith in a drama where love and death become one.
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28-Jul-2013
BBC Proms - 2013 Season: Prom 19: Prom 19 (part 2): Wagner - Tristan und Isolde
Wagner 200 Wagner's Tristan und Isolde performed by star soloists with the BBC Symphony Orchestra and Semyon Bychkov live at the BBC Proms. Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Martin Handley Wagner: Tristan and Isolde (concert performance, sung in German) Act 1 6.25pm Interval 7.00pm Act 2 8.20pm Interval8.55pm Act 3 Tristan .... Robert Dean Smith (tenor) King Mark.... Kwangchul Youn (bass) Isolde.... Violetta Urmana (soprano) Kurwenal.... Boaz Daniel (baritone) Melot.... David Wilson-Johnson (tenor) Brangane.... Mihoko Fujimura (soprano) Shepherd/Young Sailor.... Andrew Staples (tenor) Steersman.... Edward Price (baritone) BBC Singers (Men) BBC Symphony Chorus (Men) BBC Symphony Orchestra Semyon Bychkov (conductor) The Wagner bicentenary celebration continues with the composer's boldest fusion of legend and harmonic innovation, Tristan and Isolde, which forced him to break off work on his Ring cycle - near this very juncture in the Proms Ring, during the composition of Siegfried and before the final instalment, Götterdämmerung. Semyon Bychkov conducts the BBC Symphony Orchestra and a cast led by Violeta Urmana and Robert Dean Smith in a drama where love and death become one.
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28-Jul-2013
BBC Proms - 2013 Season: Prom 19: Prom 19 (part 1): Wagner - Tristan und Isolde
Wagner 200 Wagner's Tristan und Isolde performed by star soloists with the BBC Symphony Orchestra and Semyon Bychkov live at the BBC Proms. Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Martin Handley Wagner: Tristan and Isolde (concert performance, sung in German) Act 1 6.25pm Interval 7.00pm Act 2 8.20pm Interval8.55pm Act 3 Tristan .... Robert Dean Smith (tenor) King Mark.... Kwangchul Youn (bass) Isolde.... Violetta Urmana (soprano) Kurwenal.... Boaz Daniel (baritone) Melot.... David Wilson-Johnson (tenor) Brangane.... Mihoko Fujimura (soprano) Shepherd/Young Sailor.... Andrew Staples (tenor) Steersman.... Edward Price (baritone) BBC Singers (Men) BBC Symphony Chorus (Men) BBC Symphony Orchestra Semyon Bychkov (conductor) The Wagner bicentenary celebration continues with the composer's boldest fusion of legend and harmonic innovation, Tristan and Isolde, which forced him to break off work on his Ring cycle - near this very juncture in the Proms Ring, during the composition of Siegfried and before the final instalment, Götterdämmerung. Semyon Bychkov conducts the BBC Symphony Orchestra and a cast led by Violeta Urmana and Robert Dean Smith in a drama where love and death become one.
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27-Jul-2013
BBC Proms - 2013 Season: Prom 18: Prom 18 (part 3): Wagner - Siegfried
Wagner 200 Staatskapelle Berlin and Daniel Barenboim live at the BBC Proms with the third part of Wagner's Ring cycle, Siegfried Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Tom Service Wagner: Siegfried - Act 1 (concert performance; sung in German) 6.20pm Interval 6.50pm Wagner: Siegfried - Act 2 8.15pm Interval 8.45pm Wagner: Siegfried - Act 3 Siegfried ..... Lance Ryan (tenor) Brünnhilde ..... Nina Stemme (soprano) Wanderer ..... Terje Stensvold (bass-baritone) Mime ..... Peter Bronder (tenor) Alberich ..... Johannes Martin Kränzle (baritone) Fafner ..... Eric Halfvarson (bass) Woodbird ..... Rinnat Moriah (soprano) Erda ..... Anna Larsson (contralto) Staatskapelle Berlin Daniel Barenboim (conductor) Daniel Barenboim's Ring with the Staatskapelle Berlin - the first ever complete cycle at the BBC Proms - continues with the razored strings and yelping brass of a violent storm, the cloudburst of incestuous love, a bitter marital dispute and the first appearance of Wotan's rebel daughter, Brunnhilde, sung by a leading exponent of the role, Nina Stemme. The cunning dwarf, Mime, tries to manipulate Siegfried into stealing the magic ring from the dragon, Fafner, with the sword Nothung. But his plans go awry when Siegfried takes the ring for himself...
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27-Jul-2013
BBC Proms - 2013 Season: Prom 18: Prom 18 (part 2): Wagner - Siegfried
Wagner 200 Staatskapelle Berlin and Daniel Barenboim live at the BBC Proms with the third part of Wagner's Ring cycle, Siegfried Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Tom Service Wagner: Siegfried - Act 1 (concert performance; sung in German) 6.20pm Interval 6.50pm Wagner: Siegfried - Act 2 8.15pm Interval 8.45pm Wagner: Siegfried - Act 3 Siegfried ..... Lance Ryan (tenor) Brünnhilde ..... Nina Stemme (soprano) Wanderer ..... Terje Stensvold (bass-baritone) Mime ..... Peter Bronder (tenor) Alberich ..... Johannes Martin Kränzle (baritone) Fafner ..... Eric Halfvarson (bass) Woodbird ..... Rinnat Moriah (soprano) Erda ..... Anna Larsson (contralto) Staatskapelle Berlin Daniel Barenboim (conductor) Daniel Barenboim's Ring with the Staatskapelle Berlin - the first ever complete cycle at the BBC Proms - continues with the razored strings and yelping brass of a violent storm, the cloudburst of incestuous love, a bitter marital dispute and the first appearance of Wotan's rebel daughter, Brunnhilde, sung by a leading exponent of the role, Nina Stemme. The cunning dwarf, Mime, tries to manipulate Siegfried into stealing the magic ring from the dragon, Fafner, with the sword Nothung. But his plans go awry when Siegfried takes the ring for himself...
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27-Jul-2013
BBC Proms - 2013 Season: Proms Plus Intro: Introduction to Siegfried
Wagner 200 Sara Mohr-Pietsch is joined by Mark Berry, from Royal Holloway, University of London, and the BBC's Paul Mason, for an introduction to the third opera in Wagner's Ring cycle, Siegfried. Recorded earlier today at the Royal College of Music.
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27-Jul-2013
BBC Proms - 2013 Season: Prom 18: Prom 18 (part 1): Wagner - Siegfried
Wagner 200 Staatskapelle Berlin and Daniel Barenboim live at the BBC Proms with the third part of Wagner's Ring cycle, Siegfried Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Tom Service Wagner: Siegfried - Act 1 (concert performance; sung in German) 6.20pm Interval 6.50pm Wagner: Siegfried - Act 2 8.15pm Interval 8.45pm Wagner: Siegfried - Act 3 Siegfried ..... Lance Ryan (tenor) Brünnhilde ..... Nina Stemme (soprano) Wanderer ..... Terje Stensvold (bass-baritone) Mime ..... Peter Bronder (tenor) Alberich ..... Johannes Martin Kränzle (baritone) Fafner ..... Eric Halfvarson (bass) Woodbird ..... Rinnat Moriah (soprano) Erda ..... Anna Larsson (contralto) Staatskapelle Berlin Daniel Barenboim (conductor) Daniel Barenboim's Ring with the Staatskapelle Berlin - the first ever complete cycle at the BBC Proms - continues with the razored strings and yelping brass of a violent storm, the cloudburst of incestuous love, a bitter marital dispute and the first appearance of Wotan's rebel daughter, Brunnhilde, sung by a leading exponent of the role, Nina Stemme. The cunning dwarf, Mime, tries to manipulate Siegfried into stealing the magic ring from the dragon, Fafner, with the sword Nothung. But his plans go awry when Siegfried takes the ring for himself...
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26-Jul-2013
BBC Proms - 2013 Season: Prom 17: 2. The Apotheosis of the Dance
The BBC Philharmonic and Juanjo Mena, live at the BBC Proms, perform John McCabe's 'Joybox', Beethoven's Symphony No 7, Falla's 'The Three-Cornered Hat' and Ravel's 'Bolero'. Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Penny Gore John McCabe: Joybox (BBC commission: world premiere) Beethoven: Symphony No. 7 in A major 8.20pm Interval 8.40pm Falla: The Three-Cornered Hat (complete) Ravel: Boléro Clara Mouriz (mezzo-soprano) Compañía Antonio Márquez (dance company) BBC Philharmonic Juanjo Mena (conductor) The world premiere of John McCabe's 'Joybox' opens a concert of music inspired by or written for dance, from the Bohemian stamp and whirl of Beethoven's Seventh Symphony to the slow-burn crescendo of Ravel's 'Boléro'. Mezzo-soprano Clara Mouriz and the Compañía Antonio Marquéz join conductor Juanjo Mena and the BBC Philharmonic in Falla's colourful Ballets Russes commission 'The Three-Cornered Hat', a tale of intrigue and jealousy shot through with the spirit of Spanish folk dances.
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26-Jul-2013
BBC Proms - 2013 Season: Prom 16: 2. Elgar, Bantock, Walton and Tchaikovsky
BBC National Orchestra of Wales and Jac van Steen launch the Proms Tchaikovsky cycle, and cellist Raphael Wallfisch celebrates his 60th birthday with Bantock's Sapphic Poem. Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Martin Handley Elgar: Falstaff Bantock: Sapphic Poem 8.20pm Interval 8.40pm Walton: Henry V - Touch Her Soft Lips and Part; Death of Falstaff Tchaikovsky: Symphony No. 4 in F minor Raphael Wallfisch (cello) BBC National Orchestra of Wales Jac van Steen (conductor) The baleful fanfare of Tchaikovsky's Fourth Symphony heralds the BBC Proms complete cycle of his symphonies. For conductor Jac van Steen, it's a realisation of extreme opposites, and overcoming the contrasts: "The first movement is born out of the chaos that is an inevitable part of this process, it is concerned with darkness and fate, leading to a euphoric finale, where the energy turns to light and joy". Celebrating his 60th birthday this year, Raphael Wallfisch is the soloist in the Proms premiere of Granville Bantock's Sapphic Poem, launching the Proms focus on the composer this summer. Rich, lyrical and lushly orchestrated, it is framed by two very different portraits of Sir John Falstaff by Edward Elgar and William Walton. This Prom will be repeated on Friday 26th July at 2pm.
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26-Jul-2013
BBC Proms - 2013 Season: Prom 17: 1. The Apotheosis of the Dance
The BBC Philharmonic and Juanjo Mena, live at the BBC Proms, perform John McCabe's 'Joybox', Beethoven's Symphony No 7, Falla's 'The Three-Cornered Hat' and Ravel's 'Bolero'. Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Penny Gore John McCabe: Joybox (BBC commission: world premiere) Beethoven: Symphony No. 7 in A major 8.20pm Interval 8.40pm Falla: The Three-Cornered Hat (complete) Ravel: Boléro Clara Mouriz (mezzo-soprano) Compañía Antonio Márquez (dance company) BBC Philharmonic Juanjo Mena (conductor) The world premiere of John McCabe's 'Joybox' opens a concert of music inspired by or written for dance, from the Bohemian stamp and whirl of Beethoven's Seventh Symphony to the slow-burn crescendo of Ravel's 'Boléro'. Mezzo-soprano Clara Mouriz and the Compañía Antonio Marquéz join conductor Juanjo Mena and the BBC Philharmonic in Falla's colourful Ballets Russes commission 'The Three-Cornered Hat', a tale of intrigue and jealousy shot through with the spirit of Spanish folk dances.
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25-Jul-2013
BBC Proms - 2013 Season: Proms Plus Literary: Playing Falstaff
What makes Falstaff, Prince Hal's fat, boastful and cowardly companion so irresistible to writers and composers? The character appears in several Shakespeare plays and in musical works by Verdi, Elgar, Vaughan Williams and Salieri. Samira Ahmed talks to Timothy West and Desmond Barrit about their experience of playing one of Shakespeare's greatest characters. Recorded in front of an audience at the Royal College of Music as one of this year's Proms Plus events.
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25-Jul-2013
BBC Proms - 2013 Season: Prom 16: 1. Elgar, Bantock, Walton and Tchaikovsky
BBC National Orchestra of Wales and Jac van Steen launch the Proms Tchaikovsky cycle, and cellist Raphael Wallfisch celebrates his 60th birthday with Bantock's Sapphic Poem. Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Martin Handley Elgar: Falstaff Bantock: Sapphic Poem 8.20pm Interval 8.40pm Walton: Henry V - Touch Her Soft Lips and Part; Death of Falstaff Tchaikovsky: Symphony No. 4 in F minor Raphael Wallfisch (cello) BBC National Orchestra of Wales Jac van Steen (conductor) The baleful fanfare of Tchaikovsky's Fourth Symphony heralds the BBC Proms complete cycle of his symphonies. For conductor Jac van Steen, it's a realisation of extreme opposites, and overcoming the contrasts: "The first movement is born out of the chaos that is an inevitable part of this process, it is concerned with darkness and fate, leading to a euphoric finale, where the energy turns to light and joy". Celebrating his 60th birthday this year, Raphael Wallfisch is the soloist in the Proms premiere of Granville Bantock's Sapphic Poem, launching the Proms focus on the composer this summer. Rich, lyrical and lushly orchestrated, it is framed by two very different portraits of Sir John Falstaff by Edward Elgar and William Walton. This Prom will be repeated on Friday 26th July at 2pm.
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24-Jul-2013
BBC Proms - 2013 Season: Prom 15: Prom 15: 3. Wagner - Die Walkure
Wagner 200 Staatskapelle Berlin and Daniel Barenboim live at the BBC Proms with the second part of Wagner's Ring cycle, Die Walküre Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Tom Service Wagner: Die Walküre - Act 1 (concert performance, sung in German) 6.00pm Interval 6.30pm Wagner: Die Walküre - Act 2 8.05pm Interval 8.35pm Wagner: Die Walküre - Act 3 Wotan ..... Bryn Terfel (bass-baritone) Fricka ..... Ekaterina Gubanova (mezzo-soprano) Siegmund ..... Simon O'Neill (tenor) Sieglinde ..... Anja Kampe (soprano) Hunding ..... Eric Halfvarson (bass) Brünnhilde ..... Nina Stemme (soprano) Gerhilde ..... Sonja Mühleck (soprano) Ortlinde ..... Carola Höhn (soprano) Waltraute ..... Ivonne Fuchs (mezzo-soprano) Schwertleite ..... Anaïk Morel (contralto) Helmwige ..... Susan Foster (soprano) Siegrune ..... Leann Sandel-Pantaleo (mezzo-soprano) Grimgerde ..... Anna Lapkovskaja (mezzo-soprano) Rossweisse ..... Simone Schröder (mezzo-soprano) Staatskapelle Berlin Daniel Barenboim (conductor) Daniel Barenboim's Ring cycle with the Staatskapelle Berlin continues with part two, Die Walküre, and more mythical and psychological forces at large. The opera opens with a turbulent prologue depicting the terrible storm and devastating events including incest and adultery that are about to shake the characters. Siegmund has been asked by Wotan to help him acquire the ring, but blots his copybook by falling for his long-lost twin sister Sieglinde. This angers Fricka, Wotan's consort, so much that she demands Siegmund's death. Brünnhilde, Wotan's rebel daughter who we meet for the first time, tries to defend him, but in punishment she is put to sleep on a rock surrounded by fire. Die Walküre is considered perhaps the most accessible of the Ring cycle operas, and ends with the powerful Magic Fire Music.
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24-Jul-2013
BBC Proms - 2013 Season: Prom 15: Prom 15: 2. Wagner - Die Walkure
Wagner 200 Staatskapelle Berlin and Daniel Barenboim live at the BBC Proms with the second part of Wagner's Ring cycle, Die Walküre Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Tom Service Wagner: Die Walküre - Act 1 (concert performance, sung in German) 6.00pm Interval 6.30pm Wagner: Die Walküre - Act 2 8.05pm Interval 8.35pm Wagner: Die Walküre - Act 3 Wotan ..... Bryn Terfel (bass-baritone) Fricka ..... Ekaterina Gubanova (mezzo-soprano) Siegmund ..... Simon O'Neill (tenor) Sieglinde ..... Anja Kampe (soprano) Hunding ..... Eric Halfvarson (bass) Brünnhilde ..... Nina Stemme (soprano) Gerhilde ..... Sonja Mühleck (soprano) Ortlinde ..... Carola Höhn (soprano) Waltraute ..... Ivonne Fuchs (mezzo-soprano) Schwertleite ..... Anaïk Morel (contralto) Helmwige ..... Susan Foster (soprano) Siegrune ..... Leann Sandel-Pantaleo (mezzo-soprano) Grimgerde ..... Anna Lapkovskaja (mezzo-soprano) Rossweisse ..... Simone Schröder (mezzo-soprano) Staatskapelle Berlin Daniel Barenboim (conductor) Daniel Barenboim's Ring cycle with the Staatskapelle Berlin continues with part two, Die Walküre, and more mythical and psychological forces at large. The opera opens with a turbulent prologue depicting the terrible storm and devastating events including incest and adultery that are about to shake the characters. Siegmund has been asked by Wotan to help him acquire the ring, but blots his copybook by falling for his long-lost twin sister Sieglinde. This angers Fricka, Wotan's consort, so much that she demands Siegmund's death. Brünnhilde, Wotan's rebel daughter who we meet for the first time, tries to defend him, but in punishment she is put to sleep on a rock surrounded by fire. Die Walküre is considered perhaps the most accessible of the Ring cycle operas, and ends with the powerful Magic Fire Music.
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24-Jul-2013
BBC Proms - 2013 Season: Proms Plus Intro: Introduction to Die WalkÃŒre
Sara Mohr-Pietsch continues her survey of Wagner's Ring Cycle, with Elaine Padmore and Patrick Carnegie joining her for an introduction to Die Walküre. Recorded at the Royal College of Music, London.
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24-Jul-2013
BBC Proms - 2013 Season: Prom 15: Prom 15: 1. Wagner - Die Walkure
Wagner 200 Staatskapelle Berlin and Daniel Barenboim live at the BBC Proms with the second part of Wagner's Ring cycle, Die Walküre Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Tom Service Wagner: Die Walküre - Act 1 (concert performance, sung in German) 6.00pm Interval 6.30pm Wagner: Die Walküre - Act 2 8.05pm Interval 8.35pm Wagner: Die Walküre - Act 3 Wotan ..... Bryn Terfel (bass-baritone) Fricka ..... Ekaterina Gubanova (mezzo-soprano) Siegmund ..... Simon O'Neill (tenor) Sieglinde ..... Anja Kampe (soprano) Hunding ..... Eric Halfvarson (bass) Brünnhilde ..... Nina Stemme (soprano) Gerhilde ..... Sonja Mühleck (soprano) Ortlinde ..... Carola Höhn (soprano) Waltraute ..... Ivonne Fuchs (mezzo-soprano) Schwertleite ..... Anaïk Morel (contralto) Helmwige ..... Susan Foster (soprano) Siegrune ..... Leann Sandel-Pantaleo (mezzo-soprano) Grimgerde ..... Anna Lapkovskaja (mezzo-soprano) Rossweisse ..... Simone Schröder (mezzo-soprano) Staatskapelle Berlin Daniel Barenboim (conductor) Daniel Barenboim's Ring cycle with the Staatskapelle Berlin continues with part two, Die Walküre, and more mythical and psychological forces at large. The opera opens with a turbulent prologue depicting the terrible storm and devastating events including incest and adultery that are about to shake the characters. Siegmund has been asked by Wotan to help him acquire the ring, but blots his copybook by falling for his long-lost twin sister Sieglinde. This angers Fricka, Wotan's consort, so much that she demands Siegmund's death. Brünnhilde, Wotan's rebel daughter who we meet for the first time, tries to defend him, but in punishment she is put to sleep on a rock surrounded by fire. Die Walküre is considered perhaps the most accessible of the Ring cycle operas, and ends with the powerful Magic Fire Music.
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23-Jul-2013
BBC Proms - 2013 Season: Proms Plus Late: Jazzlines and the Alex Woods Quartet
Georgia Mann introduces a session at the Royal Albert Hall shared by two bands including a line-up of sax, drums, guitar and piano: Jazzlines, from Birmingham's Town Hall Symphony Hall jazz programme, and the Alex Woods Quartet, from the Birmingham Conservatoire.
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23-Jul-2013
BBC Proms - 2013 Season: Prom 14: Wagner - Das Rheingold
Wagner 200 Following the success of his Beethoven symphony cycle last year, Daniel Barenboim launches his Proms Ring cycle, the first ever performance of Wagner's four Ring cycle operas in a single Proms Festival. Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Tom Service Wagner: Das Rheingold (concert performance, sung in German) Wotan ..... Iain Paterson (bass-baritone) Loge ..... Stephan Rügamer (tenor) Donner ..... Jan Buchwald (bass-baritone) Froh ..... Marius Vlad (tenor) Fricka ..... Ekaterina Gubanova (mezzo-soprano) Freia ..... Anna Samuil (soprano) Erda ..... Anna Larsson (contralto) Alberich ..... Johannes Martin Kränzle (baritone) Mime ..... Peter Bronder (tenor) Fasolt ..... Stephen Milling (bass) Fafner ..... Eric Halfvarson (bass) Woglinde ..... Aga Mikolaj (soprano) Wellgunde ..... Maria Gortsevskaya (mezzo-soprano) Flosshilde ..... Anna Lapkovskaja (mezzo-soprano) Staatskapelle Berlin Daniel Barenboim (conductor) The first opera in Wagner's Ring cycle, Das Rheingold, introduces us to mythical stories of sword-wielding heroes, castles, magic potions and scheming dwarves, and the central corrupting influence of the all-powerful ring, guarded by the cruel water-sprites, otherwise known as the Rhinemaidens. A lecherous Nibelung dwarf called Alberich seizes the gold and heads to Nibelheim where he builds an empire based on fear and slave labour. We also meet Wotan the chief god in his castle Valhalla, and who when he hears of the all-powerful ring, decides he wants it for himself. Das Rheingold is performed by Staatskapelle Berlin and a stellar cast from both Barenboim's Berlin and Milan ring cycles. This is the first ever performance of Wagner's four Ring cycle operas in a single Proms Festival. There will be no interval.
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23-Jul-2013
BBC Proms - 2013 Season: Proms Plus Intro: Introduction to Das Rheingold
Wagner 200 Recorded at the Royal College of Music, London Sara Mohr-Pietsch begins her inquiry into Wagner's Ring Cycle, with Nicholas Baragwanath and Mike Ashman joining her to discuss the background to Das Rheingold.
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23-Jul-2013
BBC Proms - 2013 Season: Proms Chamber Music: PCM02: 2. Praise to Thee, O Lord!
The Huelgas Ensemble and Paul van Nevel perform Renaissance sacred music - including rarely heard works by Polish composers. Live from Cadogan Hall, London Presented by Petroc Trelawny Anon: Chwala tobie, Gospodzinie Anon: Cracovia civitas Johannes Wanning: Dixit angelus ad Petrum Johannes Wanning: Et valde mane Mikolaj Zielenski: Mihi autem nimis Christoph Demantius: Neue liebliche Intraden und frölichen Polnischen Täntzen Luca Marenzio: Lamentabatur Jacob Luca Marenzio: Solo e pensoso i piu deserti campi Krzysztof Klabon: Sluchajcie mie Krzysztof Klabon: Tryumfuj, wierny poddany Huelgas Ensemble Paul van Nevel (conductor) One of the most enterprising and accomplished of the specialist vocal ensembles on today's early music scene, the Huelgas Ensemble and founder/conductor Paul van Nevel make their BBC Proms debut with a characteristically imaginative programme centering on the little-known repertoire of choral music from Renaissance Poland - most of it rarely heard these days, and some of it only recently re-discovered in the archives of the University of Warsaw. Alongside the Polish music are works by 16th-century composers from other corners of Europe - including the great Italian Luca Marenzio, the Dutch-born Johannes Wanning, and Christoph Demantius from Bohemia. This concert will be repeated on Saturday 27th July at 2pm.
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22-Jul-2013
BBC Proms - 2013: Prom 13: 2. National Youth Orchestra of the United States of America
The National Youth Orchestra of the USA and Valery Gergiev live at the BBC Proms with a programme of Tchaikovsky, Shostakovich and a new work by Sean Shepherd. Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Penny Gore Sean Shepherd: Magiya (BBC co-commission with Carnegie Hall: European premiere) Tchaikovsky: Violin Concerto 8.20pm Interval 8.40pm Shostakovich: Symphony No. 10 in E minor Joshua Bell (violin) National Youth Orchestra of the United States of America Valery Gergiev (conductor) Tonight's prom is the UK debut of the newly-formed National Youth Orchestra of the USA under conductor Valery Gergiev. The concert opens with the European premiere of American composer Sean Shepherd's Magiya, inspired by Russian musical traditions. Violinst Joshua Bell is soloist in Tchaikovsky's ever-popular Violin Concerto, and the Prom ends with Shostakovich's mighty 10th Symphony. This Prom will be repeated on Thursday 25th July at 2pm.
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22-Jul-2013
BBC Proms - 2013: Proms Plus Intro: Sean Shepherd and Shostakovich
Sean Shepherd talks about Magiya, his new BBC commission, and about working with the National Youth Orchestra of the USA. Gerard McBurney introduces Shostakovich's Symphony No. 10. Introduced by Ian Skelly. Recorded earlier today at the Royal College of Music.
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22-Jul-2013
BBC Proms - 2013: Prom 13: 1. National Youth Orchestra of the United States of America
The National Youth Orchestra of the USA and Valery Gergiev live at the BBC Proms with a programme of Tchaikovsky, Shostakovich and a new work by Sean Shepherd. Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Penny Gore Sean Shepherd: Magiya (BBC co-commission with Carnegie Hall: European premiere) Tchaikovsky: Violin Concerto 8.20pm Interval 8.40pm Shostakovich: Symphony No. 10 in E minor Joshua Bell (violin) National Youth Orchestra of the United States of America Valery Gergiev (conductor) Tonight's prom is the UK debut of the newly-formed National Youth Orchestra of the USA under conductor Valery Gergiev. The concert opens with the European premiere of American composer Sean Shepherd's Magiya, inspired by Russian musical traditions. Violinst Joshua Bell is soloist in Tchaikovsky's ever popular Violin Concerto, and the Prom ends with Shostakovich's mighty 10th Symphony. This Prom will be repeated on Thursday 25th July at 2pm.
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21-Jul-2013
BBC Proms - 2013: Prom 12: Prom 12: 2. Viva Verdi!
Verdi 200 The Orchestra of the Academy of St. Cecilia Rome and Antonio Pappano live at the BBC Proms with Verdi - an arrangement of his String Quartet and the 4 Sacred Pieces with soprano Maria Agresta Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Donald Macleod Verdi arr. C Hermann: String Quartet (version for string orchestra) Verdi: Ave Maria (1880) Verdi: Requiem - Libera me (original version) 8.15pm Interval 8.35pm Verdi: Four Sacred Pieces Maria Agresta (soprano) Orchestra and Chorus of the Academy of Santa Cecilia, Rome Antonio Pappano (conductor) The Orchestra and Chorus of the Academy of Santa Cecilia, Rome and Sir Antonio Pappano live at the BBC Proms, with an all-Verdi programme, featuring an arrangement for strings of his String Quartet followed by religious pieces, among them his 1880 Ave Maria; the original version of the Libera me from his dramatic Requiem, and his Four Sacred Pieces, with soprano Maria Agresta. This Prom will be repeated on Sunday 28th July at 2pm.
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21-Jul-2013
BBC Proms - 2013: Prom 12: Prom 12: 1. Viva Verdi!
Verdi 200 The Orchestra of the Academy of St. Cecilia Rome and Antonio Pappano live at the BBC Proms with Verdi - an arrangement of his String Quartet and the 4 Sacred Pieces with soprano Maria Agresta Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Donald Macleod Verdi arr. C Hermann: String Quartet (version for string orchestra) Verdi: Ave Maria (1880) Verdi: Requiem - Libera me (original version) 8.15pm Interval 8.35pm Verdi: Four Sacred Pieces Maria Agresta (soprano) Orchestra and Chorus of the Academy of Santa Cecilia, Rome Antonio Pappano (conductor) The Orchestra and Chorus of the Academy of Santa Cecilia, Rome and Sir Antonio Pappano live at the BBC Proms, with an all-Verdi programme, featuring an arrangement for strings of his String Quartet followed by religious pieces, among them his 1880 Ave Maria; the original version of the Libera me from his dramatic Requiem, and his Four Sacred Pieces, with soprano Maria Agresta. This Prom will be repeated on Sunday 28th July at 2pm.
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21-Jul-2013
BBC Proms - 2013: Proms Saturday Matinees: PSM01: 1. Handel in Rome
The Academy of Ancient Music and Richard Egarr live at the BBC Proms in a concert that celebrates Handel's visit to Rome to hear the music of Arcangelo Corelli Live from Cadogan Hall, London Presented by Clemency Burton-Hill Corelli: Concerto grosso in D major, Op. 6 No. 1 Handel: Cantata 'Pensieri notturni di Filli' Valentini: Concerto grosso in A minor for four violins, Op. 7 No. 11 Handel: Cantata 'Tra le fiamme' Corelli: Concerto grosso in F major, Op. 6 No. 12 Sophie Bevan (soprano) The Academy of Ancient Music Richard Egarr (conductor) Before setlling in Britain Handel visited to Rome to hear the famous Italian violinist and composer Arcangelo Corelli. Unable to write operas - which were temporarily banned in the Papal states - Handel turned his hand to writing sacred music. In this first of five Proms Saturday Matinees, Richard Egarr, Sophie Bevan and the Academy of Ancient Music examine Handel's vivacious Italian cantatas in the context of virtuosic concerti grossi and harpsichord music by Corelli and his compatriots. This concert will be repeated on Wednesday 24th July at 2pm.
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21-Jul-2013
BBC Proms - 2013: Prom 11: Stockhausen
Ex Cathedra and Jeffrey Skidmore live at the BBC Proms with the London premiere of one of Stockhausen's most remarkable choral works. Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Louise Fryer Stockhausen: Gesang der Jünglinge Stockhausen: Mittwoch aus 'Licht' - Welt-Parlament Kathinka Pasveer (sound projection) Ex Cathedra Jeffrey Skidmore (director) Louise Fryer introduces a concert of music by one of the 20th century's most provocative, revolutionary composers. Gesang der Jünglinge (Song of the Youths) dates from the mid 1950s and is generally hailed as Stockhausen's first electronic masterpiece, a mind-popping sonic translation of the biblical story of Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego, realised live tonight by Kathinka Pasveer who worked closely with the composer for over two decades. Welt-Parlament (World Parliament) was composed 30 years later and is a multi-lingual, virtuosic piece of choral writing for 37 singers, who form a futuristic world parliament discussing the theme of love. It receives its London premiere at the hands of Ex Cathedra and their director Jeffrey Skidmore, who promises listeners "an incredible spiritual feeling" by the end of this dazzling, demanding and hugely complex work.
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20-Jul-2013
BBC Proms - 2013: Prom 10: 2. Mozart, Schumann and Rachmaninov
The Orchestra of the Academy of Santa Cecilia, Rome and Antonio Pappano live at the BBC Proms with Mozart's Symphony 35, Schumann's Piano Concerto and Rachmaninov's 2nd Symphony. Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Sara Mohr-Pietsch Mozart: Symphony No. 35 in D major, K385 'Haffner' Schumann: Piano Concerto in A minor 7.30pm Interval 7.50pm Rachmaninov: Symphony No. 2 in E minor Jan Lisiecki (piano) Orchestra of the Academy of Santa Cecilia, Rome Antonio Pappano (conductor) Sir Antonio Pappano conducts his Orchestra of the Academy of Santa Cecilia, Rome, in a programme featuring two major symphonies as bookends. First, Mozart's Symphony 35, 'Haffner', which started life as a serenade, and at the end, Rachmaninov's colossal Symphony No. 2. In the middle, Schumann's Piano Concerto in A minor, a masterpiece of the romantic concerto, with young virtuoso Jan Lisiecki as soloist, making his Proms debut. This Prom will be repeated on Tuesday 23rd July at 2pm.
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20-Jul-2013
BBC Proms - 2013: Proms Plus Intro: Rachmaninov
Louise Fryer is joined by composer and musicologist William Mival to discuss Rachmaninov and his Symphony No. 2.
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20-Jul-2013
BBC Proms - 2013: Prom 10: 1. Mozart, Schumann and Rachmaninov
The Orchestra of the Academy of Santa Cecilia, Rome and Antonio Pappano live at the BBC Proms with Mozart's Symphony 35, Schumann's Piano Concerto and Rachmaninov's 2nd Symphony. Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Sara Mohr-Pietsch Mozart: Symphony No. 35 in D major, K385 'Haffner' Schumann: Piano Concerto in A minor 7.30pm Interval 7.50pm Rachmaninov: Symphony No. 2 in E minor Jan Lisiecki (piano) Orchestra of the Academy of Santa Cecilia, Rome Antonio Pappano (conductor) Sir Antonio Pappano conducts his Orchestra of the Academy of Santa Cecilia, Rome, in a programme featuring two major symphonies as bookends. First, Mozart's Symphony 35, 'Haffner', which started life as a serenade, and at the end, Rachmaninov's colossal Symphony No. 2. In the middle, Schumann's Piano Concerto in A minor, a masterpiece of the romantic concerto, with young virtuoso Jan Lisiecki as soloist, making his Proms debut. This Prom will be repeated on Tuesday 23rd July at 2pm.
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20-Jul-2013
BBC Proms - 2013: Proms Plus Intro: David Matthews and Nielsen
Louise Fryer speaks to David Matthews about his new commission and Daniel Grimley gives an introduction to Nielsen and his 'Inextinguishable' Symphony No. 4.
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19-Jul-2013
BBC Proms - 2013: Prom 09: 2. Stenhammar, Szymanowski and R Strauss
The BBC National Orchestra of Wales and Thomas Søndergård live at the BBC Proms with three of the most colourful orchestral scores in the repertory. Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Petroc Trelawny Stenhammar: Excelsior! Szymanowski: Symphony No. 3, 'The Song of the Night' 7.50pm Interval 8.10pm R Strauss: An Alpine Symphony Michael Weinius (tenor) BBC National Chorus of Wales BBC Symphony Chorus BBC National Orchestra of Wales Thomas Søndergård (conductor) Evocations of Nordic forests, Persian gardens and snow-capped mountains feature in Thomas Søndergård's first Prom as Principal Conductor of the BBC NOW. Stenhammar's joyful Excelsior! is an upbeat to the opulent, exotic sound-world of Szymanowski's Symphony No. 3, 'The Song of the Night'. And Strauss's epic Alpine Symphony is as much a statement of the composer's personal philosophy as a description of the natural world at its most dramatic. This Prom will be repeated on Monday 22nd July at 2pm.
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19-Jul-2013
BBC Proms - 2013: Prom 09: 1. Stenhammar, Szymanowski and R Strauss
The BBC National Orchestra of Wales and Thomas Søndergård live at the BBC Proms with three of the most colourful orchestral scores in the repertory. Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Petroc Trelawny Stenhammar: Excelsior! Szymanowski: Symphony No. 3, 'The Song of the Night' 7.50pm Interval 8.10pm R Strauss: An Alpine Symphony Michael Weinius (tenor) BBC National Chorus of Wales BBC Symphony Chorus BBC National Orchestra of Wales Thomas Søndergård (conductor) Evocations of Nordic forests, Persian gardens and snow-capped mountains feature in Thomas Søndergård's first Prom as Principal Conductor of the BBC NOW. Stenhammar's joyful Excelsior! is an upbeat to the opulent, exotic sound-world of Szymanowski's Symphony No. 3, 'The Song of the Night'. And Strauss's epic Alpine Symphony is as much a statement of the composer's personal philosophy as a description of the natural world at its most dramatic. This Prom will be repeated on Monday 22nd July at 2pm.
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18-Jul-2013
BBC Proms - 2013: Prom 08: 2. Britten, Lutoslawski and Thomas AdÃšs
The BBC Symphony Orchestra live at the BBC Proms perform music by Britten and LutosÅawski, alongside the premiere of a new work by tonight's conductor, Thomas AdÃšs Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Katie Derham Britten: Sinfonia da Requiem LutosÅawski: Cello Concerto 8.20pm Interval 8.40pm AdÃšs: Totentanz (world premiere) Paul Watkins (cello) Christianne Stotijn (mezzo-soprano) Simon Keenlyside (baritone) BBC Symphony Orchestra Thomas AdÃšs (condcutor) Britten's Sinfonia da Requiem opens a programme of testimony and remembrance. Former BBC SO Principal Cellist Paul Watkins is the soloist in LutosÅawski's bleak and beautiful Cello Concerto, composed for and dedicated to Mstislav Rostropovich in a period of violent protest and political repression in Poland. Thomas AdÃšs conducts the BBC Symphony Orchestra and soloists Christianne Stotijn and Simon Keenlyside in the world premiere of his Totentanz, a commission in memory of LutosÅawski, which sets an anonymous 15th-century text that accompanied a frieze destroyed when LÃŒbeck's Marienkirche was bombed in the Second World War. This Prom will be repeated on Sunday 21st July at 2pm.
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18-Jul-2013
BBC Proms - 2013: Proms Plus Literary: Poles in Britain
Polish is the third most spoken language in the UK, after English and Welsh, and the 2011 census found over half a million Poles living in Britain. But you don't need to speak Polish in order to embrace Polish culture, thanks to a current boom in translating Polish novels into English. Rana Mitter asks the Polish-born writers Eva Hoffman and A.M. Bakalar to provide a guide to the most exciting writing coming out of Poland today. Recorded in front of an audience at the Royal College of Music as part of this year's Proms Plus events.
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18-Jul-2013
BBC Proms - 2013: Prom 08: 1. Britten, Lutoslawski and Thomas AdÃšs
The BBC Symphony Orchestra live at the BBC Proms perform music by Britten and LutosÅawski, alongside the premiere of a new work by tonight's conductor, Thomas AdÃšs Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Katie Derham Britten: Sinfonia da Requiem LutosÅawski: Cello Concerto 8.20pm Interval 8.40pm AdÃšs: Totentanz (world premiere) Paul Watkins (cello) Christianne Stotijn (mezzo-soprano) Simon Keenlyside (baritone) BBC Symphony Orchestra Thomas AdÃšs (condcutor) Britten's Sinfonia da Requiem opens a programme of testimony and remembrance. Former BBC SO Principal Cellist Paul Watkins is the soloist in LutosÅawski's bleak and beautiful Cello Concerto, composed for and dedicated to Mstislav Rostropovich in a period of violent protest and political repression in Poland. Thomas AdÃšs conducts the BBC Symphony Orchestra and soloists Christianne Stotijn and Simon Keenlyside in the world premiere of his Totentanz, a commission in memory of LutosÅawski, which sets an anonymous 15th-century text that accompanied a frieze destroyed when LÃŒbeck's Marienkirche was bombed in the Second World War. This Prom will be repeated on Sunday 21st July at 2pm.
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17-Jul-2013
BBC Proms - 2013: Prom 06: 1. David Matthews, Rachmaninov and Nielsen
The BBC Philharmonic and Juanjo Mena live at the BBC Proms perform David Matthews' 'A Vision of the Sea', Rachmaninov's Piano Concerto No 2 and Nielsen's Symphony No 4. Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Petroc Trelawny David Matthews: A Vision of the Sea (BBC commission: world premiere) Rachmaninov: Piano Concerto No. 2 in C minor 8.05pm Interval 8.25pm Nielsen: Symphony No 4, 'Inextinguishable' Nobuyuki Tsujii (piano) BBC Philharmonic Juanjo Mena (conductor) Juanjo Mena conducts the world premiere of David Matthews' 'A Vision of the Sea', inspired by Shelley's poetry, the pull of the tide on the Kent coast and an evocation of sunrise. Nobuyuki Tsujii, who played to packed houses on his recent tour of Japan with the BBC Philharmonic, makes his proms debut in Rachmaninov's Second Piano Concerto before the orchestra performs Nielsen's irrepressible 'Inextinguishable' Fourth Symphony, music brimming with optimism and the sheer joy of living. This Prom will be repeated on Friday 19th July at 2pm.
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17-Jul-2013
BBC Proms - 2013: Prom 07: Gospel Prom
The Gospel Prom, live from the Royal Albert Hall, hosted by Pastor David Daniel. The Proms explores the emotive and richly varied world of gospel music, with leading vocal ensembles and community choirs combining to create a thrilling massed wall of sound. Favourites such as 'Swing Low, Sweet Chariot' and 'O Happy Day' are heard alongside popular hymns, calypso choruses, spirituals, and new songs inspired by funk and rock. Presented by Clemency Burton-Hill Pastor David Daniel (host) Muyiwa & Riversongz London Adventist Chorale Ken Burton (conductor) London Community Gospel Choir Rebecca Thomas (conductor) People's Christian Fellowship Choir Ruth Waldron (conductor).
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17-Jul-2013
BBC Proms - 2013: Prom 06: 2. David Matthews, Rachmaninov and Nielsen
The BBC Philharmonic and Juanjo Mena live at the BBC Proms perform David Matthews' 'A Vision of the Sea', Rachmaninov's Piano Concerto No 2 and Nielsen's Symphony No 4. Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Petroc Trelawny David Matthews: A Vision of the Sea (BBC commission: world premiere) Rachmaninov: Piano Concerto No. 2 in C minor 8.05pm Interval 8.25pm Nielsen: Symphony No 4, 'Inextinguishable' Nobuyuki Tsujii (piano) BBC Philharmonic Juanjo Mena (conductor) Juanjo Mena conducts the world premiere of David Matthews' 'A Vision of the Sea', inspired by Shelley's poetry, the pull of the tide on the Kent coast and an evocation of sunrise. Nobuyuki Tsujii, who played to packed houses on his recent tour of Japan with the BBC Philharmonic, makes his proms debut in Rachmaninov's Second Piano Concerto before the orchestra performs Nielsen's irrepressible 'Inextinguishable' Fourth Symphony, music brimming with optimism and the sheer joy of living. This Prom will be repeated on Friday 19th July at 2pm.
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16-Jul-2013
BBC Proms - 2013: Proms Plus Literary: Mahler in Words
Mahler in Words: conductor, rock star and blogger Kenneth Woods introduces a selection of readings about Gustav Mahler and discusses how the composer's intense relationship with Alma fed into the writing of his Fifth Symphony. Woods argues that the tempestuous monster of popular myth is not an accurate depiction of Mahler and there is a chance to hear rare audio of an orchestral player who actually worked under him. Rana Mitter presents. The reader is Nicholas Boulton. Recorded in front of an audience at the Royal College of Music as the first of this year's Literary Proms Plus events.
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16-Jul-2013
BBC Proms - 2013: Prom 05: 2. Bamberg Symphony Orchestra
Bamberg Symphony Orchestra, Arditti Quartet and Jonathan Nott live at the BBC Proms with one of Mahler's best-loved symphonies and the UK premiere of a work by Helmut Lachenmann. Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London. Presented by Christopher Cook Helmut Lachenmann: Tanzsuite mit Deutschlandlied (UK premiere) 8.10pm Interval 8.30pm Mahler: Symphony No. 5 in C sharp minor Arditti Quartet Bamberg Symphony Orchestra Jonathan Nott (conductor) Written over the summers of 1901 and 1902, Mahler's Fifth remains one of the best-loved symphonies in the repertory, its famous Adagietto a love-letter to his wife, Alma. Before it, the brilliantly virtuosic Arditti Quartet joins the Bamberg Symphony Orchestra for Helmut Lachenmann's Tanzsuite mit Deutschlandlied, an abrasive, unsettling example of the composer's 'musique concrète instrumentale', whose metallic timbres and subtle textures promise to transfix and enthrall. This Prom will be repeated on Thursday 18th July at 2pm.
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16-Jul-2013
BBC Proms - 2013: Prom 05: 1. Bamberg Symphony Orchestra
Bamberg Symphony Orchestra, Arditti Quartet and Jonathan Nott live at the BBC Proms with one of Mahler's best-loved symphonies and the UK premiere of a work by Helmut Lachenmann. Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London. Presented by Christopher Cook Helmut Lachenmann: Tanzsuite mit Deutschlandlied (UK premiere) 8.10pm Interval 8.30pm Mahler: Symphony No. 5 in C sharp minor Arditti Quartet Bamberg Symphony Orchestra Jonathan Nott (conductor) Written over the summers of 1901 and 1902, Mahler's Fifth remains one of the best-loved symphonies in the repertory, its famous Adagietto a love-letter to his wife, Alma. Before it, the brilliantly virtuosic Arditti Quartet joins the Bamberg Symphony Orchestra for Helmut Lachenmann's Tanzsuite mit Deutschlandlied, an abrasive, unsettling example of the composer's 'musique concrète instrumentale', whose metallic timbres and subtle textures promise to transfix and enthrall. This Prom will be repeated on Thursday 18th July at 2pm.
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16-Jul-2013
BBC Proms - 2013: Proms Chamber Music: PCM01: 1. Ravel, Mozart and Lutoslawski
Vilde Frang and Michail Lifits live at the BBC Proms with music by Ravel, Mozart, and the Partita by one of this year's featured composers, Lutoslawski. Live from Cadogan Hall, London Presented by Petroc Trelawny Ravel: Violin Sonata Mozart: Violin Sonata in G major, K379 Lutoslawski: Partita Vilde Frang (violin) Michail Lifits (piano) Petroc Trelawny introduces the first of this year's Proms Chamber Music concerts, live from Cadogan Hall in London. The charismatic young Norwegian violinist Vilde Frang makes her Proms concerto debut with the BBC Philharmonic later in the season, but today performs two of the best-loved chamber works in the repertory - Ravel's jazz-influenced work written in the 1920s, and Mozart's great sonata of 1781. And a rare chance to hear the expressive Partita by Witold Lutoslawski, whose centenary is celebrated across the Proms this year. This concert will be repeated on Saturday 20th July at 2pm.
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16-Jul-2013
BBC Proms - 2013: Proms Plus Intro: The History of French Dance
A discussion on the history of French ballet from Lully to Stravinsky and an examination of The Rite of Spring, 100 years after its premiere, with Jane Pritchard, Dance Historian at the Victoria & Albert Museum.
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16-Jul-2013
BBC Proms - 2013: Proms Plus Intro: The Soundworld of Doctor Who
Doctor Who enthusiast Matthew Sweet and guests look back over 50 years of the BBC series. Recorded earlier today at the Royal College of Music.
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15-Jul-2013
BBC Proms - 2013: Prom 04: 2. Les SiÃšcles - The Rite of Spring
Les Siècles and François-Xavier Roth live at the BBC Proms with dance music from the court of Louis XIV to the Ballets Russes Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Sara Mohr-Pietsch Stravinsky: The Rite of Spring Les Siècles François-Xavier Roth (conductor) An evening of riot and revolution in dance music from the court of Louis XIV to the Ballets Russes. Francois-Xavier Roth directs Les Siècles in the first period-instrument performance at the Proms of Stravinsky's The Rite of Spring, marking the work's centenary. Scenes from ballets by Lully, Rameau, Delibes and Massenet provide more than two centuries of historical context for the work that scandalised musical Paris at its premiere in 1913. An edited version of this Prom will be broadcast on Wednesday 17th July at 2pm.
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15-Jul-2013
BBC Proms - 2013: Prom 04: 1. Les SiÃšcles - The Rite of Spring
Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Sara Mohr-Pietsch Les Siècles and François-Xavier Roth live at the BBC Proms with dance music from the court of Louis XIV to the Ballets Russes Lully: Le bourgeois gentilhomme - overture and dances Rameau: Les Indes galantes - dances Delibes: Coppélia - excerpts Massenet: Le Cid - ballet music (excerpts) Les Siècles François-Xavier Roth (conductor) An evening of riot and revolution in dance music from the court of Louis XIV to the Ballets Russes. Francois-Xavier Roth directs Les Siècles in the first period-instrument performance at the Proms of Stravinsky's The Rite of Spring, marking the work's centenary. Scenes from ballets by Lully, Rameau, Delibes and Massenet provide more than two centuries of historical context for the work that scandalised musical Paris at its premiere in 1913. An edited version of this Prom will be broadcast on Wednesday 17th July at 2pm.
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14-Jul-2013
BBC Proms - 2013: Prom 02: 2. Doctor Who Prom
Doctor Who returns to the Proms to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the popular BBC series Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Louise Fryer Programme to include: Murray Gold Music from the Doctor Who series and other music from the series by Bizet, Debussy and Bach London Philharmonic Choir BBC National Orchestra of Wales Ben Foster (conductor) Doctor Who returns to the Proms to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the popular BBC series. As well as showcasing Murray Gold's music from the past eight years, the concert also journeys back to the early days of Doctor Who and the groundbreaking work of the BBC Radiophonic Workshop. Featuring special guests from the series, big screens and a host of monsters ready to invade the Royal Albert Hall, this is not the year to be exterminated! This Prom will be repeated on Tuesday 16th July at 2pm.
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14-Jul-2013
BBC Proms - 2013: Prom 02: 1. Doctor Who Prom
Doctor Who returns to the Proms to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the popular BBC series Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Louise Fryer Programme to include: Murray Gold Music from the Doctor Who series and other music from the series by Bizet, Debussy and Bach London Philharmonic Choir BBC National Orchestra of Wales Ben Foster (conductor) Doctor Who returns to the Proms to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the popular BBC series. As well as showcasing Murray Gold's music from the past eight years, the concert also journeys back to the early days of Doctor Who and the groundbreaking work of the BBC Radiophonic Workshop. Featuring special guests from the series, big screens and a host of monsters ready to invade the Royal Albert Hall, this is not the year to be exterminated! This Prom will be repeated on Tuesday 16th July at 2pm.
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13-Jul-2013
BBC Proms - 2013: Prom 01: 2. Julian Anderson, Britten, Rachmaninov, Lutoslawski, Vaughan Williams
The BBC Symphony Orchestra and Sakari Oramo live at the First Night of the BBC Proms, including music by Britten, Rachmaninov and Vaughan Williams Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Petroc Trelawny Vaughan Williams: A Sea Symphony Sally Matthews (soprano) Roderick Williams (baritone) Stephen Hough (piano) BBC Proms Youth Choir BBC Symphony Chorus BBC Symphony Orchestra Sakari Oramo (conductor) The 2013 Proms begins with a surge of natural energy in sea-inspired works by Britten and Vaughan Williams, the latter combining the 300-strong forces of the Proms Youth Choir and the BBC Symphony Chorus. Julian Anderson's new commission sets some lines concerning nature and time by the 19th-century mystical writer Richard Jefferies. Stephen Hough performs one of the best-loved works in the repertory, kicking off a season in which the piano concerto will loom large. And 100 years after his birth, Polish composer Witold Lutoslawski is celebrated alongside the music of his compatriots, beginning tonight with one of his most popular pieces. This Prom will be repeated on Monday 15th July at 2pm.
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13-Jul-2013
BBC Proms - 2013: Prom 01: 1. Julian Anderson, Britten, Rachmaninov, Lutoslawski, Vaughan Williams
The BBC Symphony Orchestra and Sakari Oramo live at the First Night of the BBC Proms, including music by Britten, Rachmaninov and Vaughan Williams Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Petroc Trelawny Julian Anderson: Harmony (BBC commission: world premiere) Britten: Four Sea Interludes from 'Peter Grimes' Rachmaninov: Rhapsody on a Theme of Paganini Lutoslawski: Variations on a Theme by Paganini Sally Matthews (soprano) Roderick Williams (baritone) Stephen Hough (piano) BBC Proms Youth Choir BBC Symphony Chorus BBC Symphony Orchestra Sakari Oramo (conductor) The 2013 Proms begins with a surge of natural energy in sea-inspired works by Britten and Vaughan Williams, the latter combining the 300-strong forces of the Proms Youth Choir and the BBC Symphony Chorus. Julian Anderson's new commission sets some lines concerning nature and time by the 19th-century mystical writer Richard Jefferies. Stephen Hough performs one of the best-loved works in the repertory, kicking off a season in which the piano concerto will loom large. And 100 years after his birth, Polish composer Witold Lutoslawski is celebrated alongside the music of his compatriots, beginning tonight with one of his most popular pieces. This Prom will be repeated on Monday 15th July at 2pm.
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12-Jul-2013
BBC Proms - 2013: Proms Preview
On the eve of the 2013 BBC Proms Petroc Trelawny previews the season live from the Royal Albert Hall - two months of many of the world's greatest artists, composers, orchestras and ensembles across 92 concerts including four Last Night celebrations around the UK.
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07-Jan-2013
BBC Proms - 2012 Season: Prom 75: Vienna Philharmonic
Another chance to hear one of the highlights of the 2012 Proms season. Presented by Martin Handley In their second Prom, Bernard Haitink and the Vienna Philharmonic perform symphonies by Haydn and Richard Strauss - two composers with whom both he and the orchestra have an unrivalled affinity. Whilst Haydn's last symphony, written while he was living in London, was an instant critical and commercial success, Strauss's work was initially less enthusiastically received until dedicated interpreters such as Haitink took it up. In this highly programmatic symphony, Strauss mingles childhood memories of schoolboy mountaineering with a deeper, philosophical exploration of the meaning of humanity's place on earth. Haydn: Symphony No. 104, 'London' R. Strauss: An Alpine Symphony.
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31-Dec-2012
BBC Proms - 2012 Season: Prom 71: St Louis Symphony
Another chance to hear one of the highlights of the 2012 Proms season. Presented by Katie Derham The St Louis Symphony Orchestra makes its Proms debut, under Music Director David Robertson. Brahms's dramatic overture opens the programme, followed by Beethoven's challenging and energetic Violin concerto, with Christian Tetzlaff, a soloist who has made regular appearances at the Proms. These two composers are at the pinnacle of Western music, and the next composer, Schoenberg, venerated both of them. He argued that his own new way of composing followed logically on from these greats. Gershwin may seem an unlikely pairing with Schoenberg, but both became firm friends when living in Hollywood, sharing an interest painting and tennis. Brahms: Tragic Overture Beethoven: Violin Concerto Schoenberg: Five Pieces for Orchestra Gershwin: An American in Paris Christian Tetzlaff (violin) St Louis Symphony David Robertson (conductor).
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09-Sep-2012
BBC Proms - 2012 Season: Prom 76: 2. Williams, Dvorak, Shostakovich, Leoncavallo, Lara, Rodgers
Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Sean Rafferty and Suzy Klein Jiri Belohlavek conducts the BBC Symphony Orchestra in the traditional Last Night of the Proms festivities with special guests violinist Nicola Benedetti and tenor Jospeh Calleja. The year's biggest musical party at the end of the world's greatest musical festival in what is a special summer for London promises to be a special event. Since taking the nation by storm as the 2004 BBC Young Musician of the Year, Scottish-born Nicola Benedetti has enhanced her reputation as one of Britain's most innovative and creative young violinists and tonight she's playing Bruch's luscious Violin Concerto, a piece often voted the nation's favourite. Also on stage is Joseph Calleja, the Maltese tenor who sings with the grace and elegance of the voices of a bygone era. In his last concert as chief conductor of the BBC Symphony Orchestra, Jiri Belohlavek brings with him two works by fellow Czechs - Dvorak and Suk. All this before the familiar home-grown classics bring down the curtain in time-honoured fashion. John Williams: Olympic Fanfare and Theme Dvorak: Carnival Overture op. 92 Shostakovich: Romance (from The Gadfly) Leoncavallo: Mattinata Lara: Granada Rodgers: You'll never walk alone (from Carousel) Wood: Fantasia on British Sea Songs Elgar: Pomp and Circumstance March no. 1 Parry (orch. Elgar): Jerusalem Britten: National Anthem Britten: Auld Lang Syne Joseph Calleja (tenor) Nicola Benedetti (violin) BBC Symphony Chorus BBC Symphony Orchestra Jiri Belohlavek (conductor).
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09-Sep-2012
BBC Proms - 2012 Season: Proms Plus: 08/09/2012
Suzy and Sean talk to some of tonight's peformers and introduce music recorded earlier this evening at Hyde Park in London as part of Proms in the Park.
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09-Sep-2012
BBC Proms - 2012 Season: Prom 76: 1. Simpson, Suk, Delius, Verdi, Massenet, Bruch, Puccini
Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Sean Rafferty and Suzy Klein Jiri Belohlavek conducts the BBC Symphony Orchestra in the traditional Last Night of the Proms festivities with special guests violinist Nicola Benedetti and tenor Jospeh Calleja. The year's biggest musical party at the end of the world's greatest musical festival in what is a special summer for London promises to be a special event. Since taking the nation by storm as the 2004 BBC Young Musician of the Year, Scottish-born Nicola Benedetti has enhanced her reputation as one of Britain's most innovative and creative young violinists and tonight she's playing Bruch's luscious Violin Concerto, a piece often voted the nation's favourite. Also on stage is Joseph Calleja, the Maltese tenor who sings with the grace and elegance of the voices of a bygone era. In his last concert as chief conductor of the BBC Symphony Orchestra, Jiri Belohlavek brings with him two works by fellow Czechs - Dvorak and Suk. All this before the familiar home-grown classics bring down the curtain in time-honoured fashion. Mark Simpson: Sparks [BBC commission, world premiere] Suk: Toward a New Life Delius: Songs of Farewell Verdi: Forse la soglia attinse... Ma se m'e forza perderti (from Ballo in Maschera) Massenet: Pourquoi me reveiller? (from Werther) Bruch: Violin Concerto no. 1 in G minor Puccini: E lucevan le stelle (from Tosca) Puccini: Nessun dorma (from Turandot) Joseph Calleja (tenor) Nicola Benedetti (violin) BBC Symphony Chorus BBC Symphony Orchestra Jiri Belohlavek (conductor).
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09-Sep-2012
BBC Proms - BBC Proms in the Park: BBC Proms in the Park 2012
BBC Proms in the Park live from London's Hyde Park - the BBC Concert Orchestra presented by Sir Terry Wogan with special guests - Alfie Boe; Il Divo and Kylie Minogue. London's Hyde Park - once the hunting ground of King Henry VIII and more recently the venue for London 2012's Triathlon and Open Water swimming. Tonight it's host once again to the 40,000 crowd who gather to celebrate BBC Proms in the Park and the finale to the Last Night of the Proms. Time to re-kindle the feelgood factor and wave your flag to Elgar's Land of Hope and Glory and Parry's Jerusalem. As ever the BBC Concert Orchestra in their 60th anniversary year are on the Hyde Park stage to accompany special guests - Alfie Boe; Il Divo, the London Community Gospel Choir and Kylie Minogue. Alfie serenades the audience with selection of operetta, neapolitan and musical theatre songs whilst pop opera quartet Il Divo perform greatest hits including Regresa a Mi (Unbreak My Heart) and Con ti Partiro (Time to Say Goodbye). Kylie closes the show with a selection of hits accompanied by the 70 piece BBC Concert Orchestra. 2012 marks Kylie's 25 years in the music business since she recorded her first hit The Loco-motion in Australia in 1987. Tonight's set list is a nostalgic trip of million selling songs including - On a Night Like This; Can't Get You Out of My Head; I Should Be So Lucky and All the Lovers.
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08-Sep-2012
BBC Proms - 2012 Season: Proms Plus Late: 07/09/2012
Informal post-Prom music and poetry from emerging young artists.
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08-Sep-2012
BBC Proms - 2012 Season: Prom 75: 2. Strauss
Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Martin Handley In their second Prom, Bernard Haitink and the Vienna Philharmonic perform symphonies by Haydn and Richard Strauss - two composers with whom both he and the orchestra have an unrivalled affinity. Whilst Haydn's last symphony, written while he was living in London, was an instant critical and commercial success, Strauss's work was initially less enthusiastically received until dedicated interpreters such as Haitink took it up. In this highly programmatic symphony, Strauss mingles childhood memories of schoolboy mountaineering with a deeper, philosophical exploration of the meaning of humanity's place on earth. R. Strauss: An Alpine Symphony.
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08-Sep-2012
BBC Proms - 2012 Season: Proms Plus: Proms Poetry Competition
Poet Wendy Cope and the presenter of The Verb, Ian McMillan, introduce the winning entries in the Proms Poetry Competition. The entries in the competition have all been inspired by a piece of music in this year's Proms.
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08-Sep-2012
BBC Proms - 2012 Season: Prom 75: 1. Haydn
Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Martin Handley In their second Prom, Bernard Haitink and the Vienna Philharmonic perform symphonies by Haydn and Richard Strauss - two composers with whom both he and the orchestra have an unrivalled affinity. Whilst Haydn's last symphony, written while he was living in London, was an instant critical and commercial success, Strauss's work was initially less enthusiastically received until dedicated interpreters such as Haitink took it up. In this highly programmatic symphony, Strauss mingles childhood memories of schoolboy mountaineering with a deeper, philosophical exploration of the meaning of humanity's place on earth. Haydn: Symphony No. 104, 'London'.
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07-Sep-2012
BBC Proms - 2012 Season: Prom 74 - Staff Benda Bilili, Baloji
Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Live for the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Mary Ann Kennedy A late night Prom with the Congolese street band Staff Benda Bilili, who perform music from their latest Album Bouger Le Monde (Make the World Move) and are also joined by the brilliant Congolese-Belgo rapper Baloji. Staff Benda Bilili, a group of paraplegic street musicians and ex-street kids from the Democratic Republic of Congo, are one of the most inspiring success stories in the global music scene. They live around the grounds of the zoo in Kinshasa and make music rooted in Soukous (or African rumba) with elements of old-school rhythm and blues, reggae and funk. In this late night Prom they perform material from their latest release Bouger Le Monde, and also join forces with the Congolese-born and Belgian-educated rapper Baloji, who mixes old and cutting-edge sounds with bitingly modern lyrics.
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07-Sep-2012
BBC Proms - 2012 Season: Prom 73: 2. Bruckner
Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Martin Handley. One of the great musical partnerships is celebrated tonight, as the pianist Murray Perahia joins conductor Bernard Haitink and the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra to perform Beethoven's Fourth Piano Concerto, undoubtedly the most personal - and radical - of the five. Bruckner's monumental last symphony also promises to be a highlight of this year's Proms. Bernard Haitink is one of the great interpreters of this profoundly spiritual music, and Bruckner himself described the Vienna Philharmonic as "the most superior" orchestra. 8.05pm Bruckner: Symphony No. 9 in D minor Murray Perahia (piano) Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra Bernard Haitink (conductor).
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07-Sep-2012
BBC Proms - 2012 Season: Prom 73: 1. Beethoven
Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Martin Handley. One of the great musical partnerships is celebrated tonight, as the pianist Murray Perahia joins conductor Bernard Haitink and the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra to perform Beethoven's Fourth Piano Concerto, undoubtedly the most personal - and radical - of the five. Bruckner's monumental last symphony also promises to be a highlight of this year's Proms. Bernard Haitink is one of the great interpreters of this profoundly spiritual music, and Bruckner himself described the Vienna Philharmonic as "the most superior" orchestra. Beethoven: Piano Concerto No. 4 in G Murray Perahia (piano) Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra Bernard Haitink (conductor).
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06-Sep-2012
BBC Proms - 2012 Season: Prom 72: 3. Nixon in China - Act 3
Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Andrew McGregor John Adams conducts his stunning opera Nixon in China, with a star-studded cast, the BBC Singers & BBC SO. Alice Goodman's poetic, intensely original libretto is based on Richard and Pat Nixon's historic three-day visit to China in 1972. Protagonists viewed initially as transcendent iconic figures are not so much satirised as seen for what they are. The score pounds away eclectically with nods to Broadway and rock, Minimalism and Igor Stravinsky, but there's no mistaking the identity of the composer, who conducts tonight, nor the colour and brilliance of one of the iconic works of our time. The Anglo-American cast includes Robert Orth as Nixon, Jessica Rivera as Mrs. Nixon, Gerald Finley as Chou En-Lai and Kathleen Kim as Madame Mao. Adams: Nixon in China - Act III Madame Mao ..... Kathleen Kim (soprano) Chairman Mao ..... Alan Oke (tenor) Chou En-lai ..... Gerald Finley (bass-baritone) President Nixon ..... Robert Orth (baritone) Pat Nixon ..... Jessica Rivera (soprano) Kissinger ..... James Rutherford (bass) First Secretary to Mao ..... Stephanie Marshall (mezzo-soprano) Second Secretary to Mao ..... Louise Poole (mezzo-soprano) Third Secretary to Mao ..... Susan Platts (mezzo-soprano) Mark Grey (sound director) Paul Curran (stage director) BBC Symphony Orchestra BBC Singers John Adams (conductor).
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06-Sep-2012
BBC Proms - 2012 Season: Prom 72: 2. Nixon in China - Act 2
Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Andrew McGregor John Adams conducts his stunning opera Nixon in China, with a star-studded cast, the BBC Singers & BBC SO. Alice Goodman's poetic, intensely original libretto is based on Richard and Pat Nixon's historic three-day visit to China in 1972. Protagonists viewed initially as transcendent iconic figures are not so much satirised as seen for what they are. The score pounds away eclectically with nods to Broadway and rock, Minimalism and Igor Stravinsky, but there's no mistaking the identity of the composer, who conducts tonight, nor the colour and brilliance of one of the iconic works of our time. The Anglo-American cast includes Robert Orth as Nixon, Jessica Rivera as Mrs. Nixon, Gerald Finley as Chou En-Lai and Kathleen Kim as Madame Mao. Adams: Nixon in China - Act II Madame Mao ..... Kathleen Kim (soprano) Chairman Mao ..... Alan Oke (tenor) Chou En-lai ..... Gerald Finley (bass-baritone) President Nixon ..... Robert Orth (baritone) Pat Nixon ..... Jessica Rivera (soprano) Kissinger ..... James Rutherford (bass) First Secretary to Mao ..... Stephanie Marshall (mezzo-soprano) Second Secretary to Mao ..... Louise Poole (mezzo-soprano) Third Secretary to Mao ..... Susan Platts (mezzo-soprano) Mark Grey (sound director) Paul Curran (stage director) BBC Symphony Orchestra BBC Singers John Adams (conductor).
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06-Sep-2012
BBC Proms - 2012 Season: Proms Plus: Nixon in China
Writer and broadcaster Rana Mitter and journalist Shuyun Sun discuss the political context of John Adams' first opera Nixon in China. Hosted by Louise Fryer. The opera tells the story of Richard Nixon's historic three day visit to China in 1972. Three years into his presidency the announcement that the anti-communist Republican president would visit Mao Tse-tung's China to improve international relations made world headlines. The visit was closely followed by the international press and scenes of Nixon and his wife Pat were widely televised around the globe. Composer John Adams describes this clash of capitalism and communism as 'an epochal event, one whose magnitude is hard to imagine from our present perspective'.
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06-Sep-2012
BBC Proms - 2012 Season: Prom 72: 1. Nixon in China - Act 1
Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Andrew McGregor John Adams conducts his stunning opera Nixon in China, with a star-studded cast, the BBC Singers & BBC SO. Alice Goodman's poetic, intensely original libretto is based on Richard and Pat Nixon's historic three-day visit to China in 1972. Protagonists viewed initially as transcendent iconic figures are not so much satirised as seen for what they are. The score pounds away eclectically with nods to Broadway and rock, Minimalism and Igor Stravinsky, but there's no mistaking the identity of the composer, who conducts tonight, nor the colour and brilliance of one of the iconic works of our time. The Anglo-American cast includes Robert Orth as Nixon, Jessica Rivera as Mrs. Nixon, Gerald Finley as Chou En-Lai and Kathleen Kim as Madame Mao. Adams: Nixon in China - Act I Madame Mao ..... Kathleen Kim (soprano) Chairman Mao ..... Alan Oke (tenor) Chou En-lai ..... Gerald Finley (bass-baritone) President Nixon ..... Robert Orth (baritone) Pat Nixon ..... Jessica Rivera (soprano) Kissinger ..... James Rutherford (bass) First Secretary to Mao ..... Stephanie Marshall (mezzo-soprano) Second Secretary to Mao ..... Louise Poole (mezzo-soprano) Third Secretary to Mao ..... Susan Platts (mezzo-soprano) Mark Grey (sound director) Paul Curran (stage director) BBC Symphony Orchestra BBC Singers John Adams (conductor).
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05-Sep-2012
BBC Proms - 2012 Season: Prom 71: 2. Schoenberg, Gershwin
Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Katie Derham The St Louis Symphony Orchestra makes its Proms debut, under Music Director David Robertson. Brahms's dramatic overture opens the programme, followed by Beethoven's challenging and energetic Violin concerto, with Christian Tetzlaff, a soloist who has made regular appearances at the Proms. These two composers are at the pinnacle of Western music, and the next composer, Schoenberg, venerated both of them. He argued that his own new way of composing followed logically on from these greats. Gershwin may seem an unlikely pairing with Schoenberg, but both became firm friends when living in Hollywood, sharing an interest painting and tennis. Schoenberg: Five Pieces for Orchestra Gershwin: An American in Paris Christian Tetzlaff (violin) St Louis Symphony David Robertson (conductor).
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05-Sep-2012
BBC Proms - 2012 Season: Prom 71: 1. Brahms, Beethoven
Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Katie Derham The St Louis Symphony Orchestra makes its Proms debut, under Music Director David Robertson. Brahms's dramatic overture opens the programme, followed by Beethoven's challenging and energetic Violin concerto, with Christian Tetzlaff, a soloist who has made regular appearances at the Proms. These two composers are at the pinnacle of Western music, and the next composer, Schoenberg, venerated both of them. He argued that his own new way of composing followed logically on from these greats. Gershwin may seem an unlikely pairing with Schoenberg, but both became firm friends when living in Hollywood, sharing an interest painting and tennis. Brahms: Tragic Overture Beethoven: Violin Concerto Christian Tetzlaff (violin) St Louis Symphony David Robertson (conductor).
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04-Sep-2012
BBC Proms - 2012 Season: Prom 70: Desert Island Discs - Part 2
Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Suzy Klein Suzy Klein and Kirsty Young present this Prom celebrating 70 years of the popular Radio 4 programme Desert Island Discs. Some castaways make guest appearances explaining their choices, which will be performed by a star-studded line-up of soloists. Music includes excerpts from Beethoven's Emperor Concerto played by Peter Donohoe, Elgar's Cello Concerto with soloist Nicolas Altstaedt, and Eric Coates's Sleepy Lagoon and the Dambusters March. Ailish Tynan (soprano) Nicolas Altstaedt (cello) Peter Donohoe (piano) Wayne Marshall (organ) Willard White (bass-baritone) Huddersfield Choral Society BBC Concert Orchestra Conductor Keith Lockhart.
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04-Sep-2012
BBC Proms - 2012 Season: Proms Plus: Desert Island Discs
Mariella Frostrup is joined by Oscar-winning lyricist Tim Rice and writer Kevin Jackson to explore the top choices and surprising omissions in guests' book choices on Desert Island Discs.
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04-Sep-2012
BBC Proms - 2012 Season: Prom 70: Desert Island Discs - Part 1
Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Suzy Klein Suzy Klein and Kirsty Young present this Prom celebrating 70 years of the popular Radio 4 programme Desert Island Discs. Some castaways make guest appearances explaining their choices, which will be performed by a star-studded line-up of soloists. Music includes excerpts from Beethoven's Emperor Concerto played by Peter Donohoe, Elgar's Cello Concerto with soloist Nicolas Altstaedt, and Eric Coates's Sleepy Lagoon and the Dambusters March. Ailish Tynan (soprano) Nicolas Altstaedt (cello) Peter Donohoe (piano) Wayne Marshall (organ) Willard White (bass-baritone) Huddersfield Choral Society BBC Concert Orchestra Conductor Keith Lockhart.
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04-Sep-2012
BBC Proms - 2012 Season: Proms Chamber Music: 8. PCM 08 - Pierre-Laurent Aimard
Live from Cadogan Hall, London Presented by Clemency Burton-Hill French pianist Pierre-Laurent Aimard performs music by compatriot Claude Debussy in the year of the 150th anniversary of his birth. A meticulous interpreter and a brilliant technician, Pierre-Laurent Aimard is a familiar face at the Proms and in this final Proms Chamber Music of the season, he turns his attention to the revolutionary piano works of Debussy. At the core of the programme is Debussy's Second Book of Preludes - short evocations, improvisatory in character and free in form - they are in Aimard's words "wonderful labyrinths in sound", and there is possibly no better guide through the labyrinth than Aimard. Debussy: Les soirs illuminés par l'ardeur du charbon Élégie Masques Préludes - Book 2.
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03-Sep-2012
BBC Proms - 2012 Season: Prom 69: 2. Mahler
Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Penny Gore The Leipzig Gewandhaus Orchestra under Riccardo Chailly in their second Prom perform Messiaen's dramatic 1964 memorial to the dead of two world wars, Et exspecto resurrectionem mortuorum, and Mahler's 6th Symphony which is a similarly wide-ranging soundscape moving from death-portending hammer-blows to alpine cow-bells. It also contains one of Mahler's most glorious slow movements. Together with the Turangalila Symphony, Messiaen's Et Expecto is one of his most often performed orchestral works. It is on a vast canvas with a wide dynamic range, full of orchestral effects and apocalyptic gongs. The Leipzig Gewandhaus Orchestra is one of the oldest symphony orchestras in the world. Riccardo Chially has been their conductor since 2005. Mahler: Symphony No. 6 in A minor Leipzig Gewandhaus Orchestra Riccardo Chailly (conductor).
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03-Sep-2012
BBC Proms - 2012 Season: Proms Live Interval: Proms Live Interval 08
The final Sunday evening live Prom interval from the Radio 3 box. There is another instalment of a regular mini-series, "Lucy Worsley's Kensington", which takes a characteristically quirky look at things of interest within a stone's throw of the Royal Albert Hall, plus other features and discussions looking ahead to the last week of Proms concerts.
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03-Sep-2012
BBC Proms - 2012 Season: Prom 69: 1. Messiaen
Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Penny Gore The Leipzig Gewandhaus Orchestra under Riccardo Chailly in their second Prom perform Messiaen's dramatic 1964 memorial to the dead of two world wars, Et exspecto resurrectionem mortuorum, and Mahler's 6th Symphony which is a similarly wide-ranging soundscape moving from death-portending hammer-blows to alpine cow-bells. It also contains one of Mahler's most glorious slow movements. Together with the Turangalila Symphony, Messiaen's Et Expecto is one of his most often performed orchestral works. It is on a vast canvas with a wide dynamic range, full of orchestral effects and apocalyptic gongs. The Leipzig Gewandhaus Orchestra is one of the oldest symphony orchestras in the world. Riccardo Chially has been their conductor since 2005. Messiaen: Et exspecto resurrectionem mortuorum Leipzig Gewandhaus Orchestra Riccardo Chailly (conductor).
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03-Sep-2012
BBC Proms - 2012 Season: Proms Plus: Mahler: Symphony No 6
Live from the Royal College of Music, London Presented by Stephen Johnson In preparation for this evening's Prom, Stephen Johnson explores Mahler's 6th Symphony with help from members of the BBC Symphony Orchestra.
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03-Sep-2012
BBC Proms - 2012 Season: Prom 68 - Bach
Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Christopher Cook In the second of his two Proms, organ virtuoso Cameron Carpenter continues to explore the music of the grandfather of composers for the instrument - J S Bach - in works performed both as Bach originally wrote them, and as reconceived by Cameron Carpenter himself. In the former category, this afternoon's Prom includes the well-known Fantasia and Fugue in G minor; in the latter, the famous Prelude and Fugue in D major, in a version cross-fertilised with the music of Gustav Mahler. And, in between, Cameron Carpenter demonstrates his prodigious abilities in that traditional organist's art - improvisation. J. S. Bach: Fantasia and Fugue in G minor, BWV 542 The Well-Tempered Clavier Book 1 - Prelude and Fugue No. 15 in G major, BWV 860 Improvisation on the Bourrée from Cello Suite No. 3 in C major, BWV 1009 J. S. Bach and Mahler, arr. C. Carpenter: Syncretic Prelude and Fugue in D major Cameron Carpenter (organ).
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02-Sep-2012
BBC Proms - 2012 Season: Prom 67: 2. Mendelssohn - Overture (The Fair Melusine); Symphony No 5
Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Donald Macleod In the first of their two Proms the dynamic Leipzig Gewandhaus Orchestra under Riccardo Chailly perform four works by Mendelssohn: the well-known overture Ruy Blas based on Victor Hugo's blood-and-thunder play, and the lesser known overture about the mermaid The Fair Melusine which Mendelssohn referred to as "the most intimate thing" he produced. The Danish violinist Nicolaj Znaider is the soloist in the ever-popular Violin Concerto. The Prom ends with the UK premiere of the original version of the Fifth Symphony, a work written in celebration of the Lutheran Reformation.. The Leipzig Gewandhaus Orchestra is one of the oldest symphony orchestras in the world. Mendelssohn became their music director in 1835 and held the position until his death in 1847. Riccardo Chailly has been its conductor since 2005. Mendelssohn: Overture - 'The Fair Melusine' Symphony No. 5 in D major, 'Reformation' (UK premiere of original version) Nikolaj Znaider (violin) Leipzig Gewandhaus Orchestra Riccardo Chailly (conductor.
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02-Sep-2012
BBC Proms - 2012 Season: Proms Plus: Mendelssohn
Musicologist John Deathridge, introduces an anthology of unexpected readings about Mendelssohn. Rana Mitter presents.
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02-Sep-2012
BBC Proms - 2012 Season: Prom 67: 1. Mendelssohn - Overture (Ruy Blas); Violin Concerto in E minor
Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Donald Macleod In the first of their two Proms the dynamic Leipzig Gewandhaus Orchestra under Riccardo Chailly perform four works by Mendelssohn: the well-known overture Ruy Blas based on Victor Hugo's blood-and-thunder play, and the lesser known overture about the mermaid The Fair Melusine which Mendelssohn referred to as "the most intimate thing" he produced. The Danish violinist Nikolaj Znaider is the soloist in the ever-popular Violin Concerto. The Prom ends with the UK premiere of the original version of the Fifth Symphony, a work written in celebration of the Lutheran Reformation.. The Leipzig Gewandhaus Orchestra is one of the oldest symphony orchestras in the world. Mendelssohn became their music director in 1835 and held the position until his death in 1847. Riccardo Chailly has been its conductor since 2005. Mendelssohn: Overture 'Ruy Blas' Violin Concerto in E minor Nikolaj Znaider (violin) Leipzig Gewandhaus Orchestra Riccardo Chailly (conductor.
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02-Sep-2012
BBC Proms - 2012 Season: Prom 66 - Bach
Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Christopher Cook The young American organ virtuoso Cameron Carpenter brings his extraordinary manual and pedal dexterity to bear on the mighty Royal Albert Hall organ in the first two concerts exploring the works of the greatest composer for the instrument, J S Bach, and his own extraordinary improvisations. Famous for his prodigious abilities and performance flair, Cameron Carpenter in these concerts plays Bach both in its original form and as viewed through the prism of other composers - including himself: the concert includes his reworking of part of a Bach solo violin partita. Alongside it are a chorale prelude arranged for piano by Busoni, and Henry Wood's and Busoni's arrangements of the famous D minor Toccata and Fugue re-imagined by Camerom Carpenter. J. S. Bach: Toccata and Fugue in F major, BWV 540 Partita No. 3 in E major for solo violin, BWV 1006 - excerpt (arr. C. Carpenter) Prelude and Fugue in A major, BWV 536 (6 mins) Chorale Prelude 'Nun freut euch, lieben Christen', BWV 734 (arr. Busoni/C. Carpenter) Carpenter: Improvisation on B-A-C-H J. S. Bach: "Evolutionary" Toccata and Fugue in D Minor, BWV 565, (arr. Wood, Busoni and Carpenter) Cameron Carpenter (organ).
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01-Sep-2012
BBC Proms - 2012 Season: Proms Plus: The Future of Orchestras
Journalist Shirley Apthorp and Mark Pemberton, Director of the Association of British Orchestras, discuss the future of orchestras with Andrew McGregor.
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01-Sep-2012
BBC Proms - 2012 Season: Prom 65 - The Spirit of Django
Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Jez Nelson Guitarist Martin Taylor joins the Britten Sinfonia and conductor Guy Barker in the London premiere of The Spirit of Django a tribute to the great jazz guitarist Django Reinhardt. This late-night Prom is a unique collaboration between two greats of the British jazz scene: multi award-winning guitarist Martin Taylor and trumpeter and arranger Guy Barker. Based on themes created by Taylor and then arranged and orchestrated by Barker the piece is inspired by legendary Gypsy jazz guitarist Django Reinhardt. The resulting homage is a suite lasting nearly an hour which suits the Proms well - as Barker remarks Reinhardt was an ideal subject: "Django was a fan of Debussy as well as Louis Armstrong", Martin Taylor & Guy Barker: The Spirit of Django - orchestral suite (London premiere) Martin Taylor (guitar) Guy Barker Jazz Orchestra Spirit of Django Britten Sinfonia Guy Barker (conductor).
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01-Sep-2012
BBC Proms - 2012 Season: Prom 64: 2. Lutoslawski
Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Andrew McGregor The Berliner Philharmoniker and Simon Rattle in their second Proms appearance perform music by Brahms and Lutoslawski. The orchestra is joined by distinguished pianist Yefim Bronfman who is soloist in Brahms's mighty Second Piano Concerto, known for its technical difficulty, length and for the fact that the pianist has to share some of the limelight with the lead cellist who has a beautiful three-minute solo at the start of the slow movement. Lutoslawski's Third Symphony was completed in the early 1980s during a troubled period in the composer's native Poland, it combines experimental techniques with craftsmanship, conviction and lyricism. Lutoslawski: Symphony No.3 Yefim Bronfman (piano) Berliner Philharmoniker Simon Rattle (conductor).
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01-Sep-2012
BBC Proms - 2012 Season: Prom 64: 1. Brahms
Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Andrew McGregor The Berliner Philharmoniker and Simon Rattle in their second Proms appearance perform music by Brahms and Lutoslawski. The orchestra is joined by distinguished pianist Yefim Bronfman who is soloist in Brahms's mighty Second Piano Concerto, known for its technical difficulty, length and for the fact that the pianist has to share some of the limelight with the lead cellist who has a beautiful three-minute solo at the start of the slow movement. Lutoslawski's Third Symphony was completed in the early 1980s during a troubled period in the composer's native Poland, it combines experimental techniques with craftsmanship, conviction and lyricism. Brahms: Piano Concerto No. 2 in B flat major Yefim Bronfman (piano) Berliner Philharmoniker Simon Rattle (conductor).
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31-Aug-2012
BBC Proms - 2012 Season: Proms Plus Late: 30/08/2012
Informal post-Prom music and poetry from emerging young artists.
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31-Aug-2012
BBC Proms - 2012 Season: Prom 63: 2. Debussy, Ravel
Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Andrew McGregor The Berliner Philharmoniker and Simon Rattle return to the Proms for the first of two concerts with an evening of wide-ranging sonic adventure. In the first half they present three different approaches to the experience of calm, firstly in Ligeti's slowly shifting sound-clouds, then with Wagner's sustained stillness through to Sibelius's most formidable and bleak evocation of a frozen landscape. The French second half is, in contrast, all about movement and dance. Tennis is not the only game played in Debussy's flirtatious ballet Jeux, while Ravel's suite, drawn from his famous ballet begins with a sunrise and ends in an orgy. Debussy: Jeux Ravel: Daphnis and Chloë - Suite No. 2 Berliner Philharmoniker Simon Rattle (conductor).
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31-Aug-2012
BBC Proms - 2012 Season: Prom 63: 1. Ligeti, Wagner, Sibelius
Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Andrew McGregor The Berliner Philharmoniker and Simon Rattle return to the Proms for the first of two concerts with an evening of wide-ranging sonic adventure. In the first half they present three different approaches to the experience of calm, firstly in Ligeti's slowly shifting sound-clouds, then with Wagner's sustained stillness through to Sibelius's most formidable and bleak evocation of a frozen landscape. The French second half is, in contrast, all about movement and dance. Tennis is not the only game played in Debussy's flirtatious ballet Jeux, while Ravel's suite, drawn from his famous ballet begins with a sunrise and ends in an orgy. Ligeti: Atmosphères Wagner: Lohengrin - Prelude, Act 1 Sibelius: Symphony No. 4 in A minor Berliner Philharmoniker Simon Rattle (conductor).
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31-Aug-2012
BBC Proms - 2012 Season: Prom 61: 1. Howells
Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Martin Handley Two masterpieces by English composers: Herbert Howells' exquisite Hymnus Paradisi and Elgar's noble First Symphony. Martyn Brabbins conducts the BBC SO, two choirs & soloists. Following his triumphant conducting of Havergal Brian's 'The Gothic' Symphony last year, Martyn Brabbins brings another British magnum opus to the Proms. Herbert Howells wrote Hymnus Paradisi 'for the drawer' in the wake of the tragically early death of his son. Only years later was he persuaded to release a finished score to the public. After this light-filled memorial from a composer closely identified with Gloucester Cathedral, we revisit the masterpiece that, in 1908 - the year of the first London Olympics - announced a Worcester man's arrival as perhaps the greatest of British symphonists. Howells: Hymnus Paradisi Miah Persson (soprano) Andrew Kennedy (tenor) BBC Symphony Chorus London Philharmonic Choir BBC Symphony Orchestra Martyn Brabbins (conductor).
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30-Aug-2012
BBC Proms - 2012 Season: Prom 62 - Eric Whitacre
Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Louise Fryer American composer Eric Whitacre has written some of the most widely sung, ravishingly scored, and greatly talked-about choral music of the last few years - especially through the pieces performed by his online Virtual Choir. Tonight his own choral group joins forces with the BBC Singers for a feast of music mainly by Whitacre himself. The Prom includes several of the composer's best-known pieces plus two new works, and also includes music by Leonard Bernstein together with three classic spiritual arrangements by Moses Hogan - both of them fellow countrymen. With the rich acoustics of the Albert Hall, and the thrilling sound of the 48-voice combined choirs, this will be a choral feast of a concert. Bernstein: Warm-Up Eric Whitacre: Alleluia Eric Whitacre: Leonardo Dreams of His Flying Machine J S Bach arr. E London: Bach Again Eric Whitacre: Higher, Faster, Stronger (BBC commission: world Premiere) Imogen Heap arr. Eric Whitacre: The Listening Chair (world premiere) Hogan: Three Spirituals Eric Whitacre: Cloudburst Eric Whitacre: Sleep Imogen Heap (vocals) Hila Plitmann (soprano) ensemblebash (percussion) Christopher Glynn (piano) BBC Singers Eric Whitacre Singers Eric Whitacre (conductor).
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30-Aug-2012
BBC Proms - 2012 Season: Prom 61: 2. Elgar
Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Martin Handley Two masterpieces by English composers: Herbert Howells' exquisite Hymnus Paradisi and Elgar's noble First Symphony. Martyn Brabbins conducts the BBC SO, two choirs & soloists. Following his triumphant conducting of Havergal Brian's 'The Gothic' Symphony last year, Martyn Brabbins brings another British magnum opus to the Proms. Herbert Howells wrote Hymnus Paradisi 'for the drawer' in the wake of the tragically early death of his son. Only years later was he persuaded to release a finished score to the public. After this light-filled memorial from a composer closely identified with Gloucester Cathedral, we revisit the masterpiece that, in 1908 - the year of the first London Olympics - announced a Worcester man's arrival as perhaps the greatest of British symphonists. Elgar: Symphony No.1 in A flat major Miah Persson (soprano) Andrew Kennedy (tenor) BBC Symphony Chorus London Philharmonic Choir BBC Symphony Orchestra Martyn Brabbins (conductor).
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30-Aug-2012
BBC Proms - 2012 Season: Proms Plus: John Bridcut
Susan Hitch is joined by the award winning film maker John Bridcut to discuss an anthology of unexpected readings about Elgar, including diaries, letters and reviews, read by the actor Simon Woods.
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29-Aug-2012
BBC Proms - 2012 Season: Prom 60: 2. Mozart - The Marriage of Figaro (Acts 3 and 4)
Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Suzy Klein Glyndebourne Festival Opera comes to the Proms with its new production of Mozart's The Marriage of Figaro, with Vito Priante as Figaro, Lydia Teuscher as Susanna, Sally Matthews as the Countess, and Audun Iversen as the Count. When Count Almaviva takes an over-eager interest in his cunning manservant's wife-to-be, he sets off an elaborate train of events and finds himself thwarted many times. But after a day of madness and a night of confusion, everything ends more or less happily. Since its inception, opera at Glyndebourne has been almost synonymous with Mozart: The Marriage of Figaro was the first work to be performed there, in May 1934. Servants outwit their master again in this latest production, new for 2012, which confirms a recent preference for period instruments. Mozart: The Marriage of Figaro - Acts III & IV Figaro ..... Vito Priante (bass) Susanna ..... Lydia Teuscher (soprano) Countess ..... Sally Matthews (soprano) Count ..... Audun Iversen (baritone) Bartolo ..... Andrew Shore (bass) Marcellina ..... Ann Murray (soprano) Cherubino ..... Isabel Leonard (soprano) Don Basilio ..... Alan Oke (tenor) Antonio ..... Nicholas Folwell (bass) Don Curzio ..... Colin Judson (tenor) Barbarina ..... Sarah Shafer (soprano) Glyndebourne Festival Opera Chorus Orchestra of the Age of Enlightenment Robin Ticciati (conductor).
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29-Aug-2012
BBC Proms - 2012 Season: Prom 60: 1. Mozart - The Marriage of Figaro (Acts 1 and 2)
Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Suzy Klein Glyndebourne Festival Opera comes to the Proms with its new production of Mozart's The Marriage of Figaro, with Vito Priante as Figaro, Lydia Teuscher as Susanna, Sally Matthews as the Countess, and Audun Iversen as the Count. When Count Almaviva takes an over-eager interest in his cunning manservant's wife-to-be, he sets off an elaborate train of events and finds himself thwarted many times. But after a day of madness and a night of confusion, everything ends more or less happily. Since its inception, opera at Glyndebourne has been almost synonymous with Mozart: The Marriage of Figaro was the first work to be performed there, in May 1934. Servants outwit their master again in this latest production, new for 2012, which confirms a recent preference for period instruments. Mozart: The Marriage of Figaro - Acts I & II Figaro ..... Vito Priante (bass) Susanna ..... Lydia Teuscher (soprano) Countess ..... Sally Matthews (soprano) Count ..... Audun Iversen (baritone) Bartolo ..... Andrew Shore (bass) Marcellina ..... Ann Murray (soprano) Cherubino ..... Isabel Leonard (soprano) Don Basilio ..... Alan Oke (tenor) Antonio ..... Nicholas Folwell (bass) Don Curzio ..... Colin Judson (tenor) Barbarina ..... Sarah Shafer (soprano) Glyndebourne Festival Opera Chorus Orchestra of the Age of Enlightenment Robin Ticciati (conductor).
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28-Aug-2012
BBC Proms - 2012 Season: Prom 59: 2. Prom 59 - Loewe, Loesser, Bernstein, Gershwin, Bock, Rodgers, Styne, Herman
Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Petroc Trelawny The John Wilson Orchestra and a starry cast of soloists present a tribute to the composers and arrangers responsible for creating The Broadway Sound. After last year's celebration of the Hollywood screen musical, John Wilson and his hand-picked orchestra present a tribute to the composers and arrangers responsible for creating the Broadway Sound. Among them such legendary tunesmiths as Jerome Kern, Cole Porter, Irving Berlin, Vincent Youmans, Richard Rodgers and Frank Loesser. Together with a cast of leading soloists the concert includes excerpts from Show Boat, No No Nanette, On Your Toes, Kiss Me Kate and Annie Get Your Gun. Loewe: Camelot - The Lusty Month Of May Loesser: Guys and Dolls - Sue Me Bernstein: On The Town - Ballet (Imaginary Coney Island) Gershwin: Porgy & Bess - Bess, You Is My Woman Now Bock: Fiorello - Little Tin Box Rodgers: Allegro - Come Home Bernstein: West Side Story - Balcony Scene Styne: Funny Girl - Don't Rain On My Parade Herman arr. Philip J. Lang: Mame - Mame Maida Vale Singers John Wilson Orchestra John Wilson, conductor.
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28-Aug-2012
BBC Proms - 2012 Season: Proms Plus: Clive James, Don Black
Clive James, poet, essayist and lyricist and Oscar-winning Don Black, lyricist of 'Born Free' and 'Tell Me on a Sunday' discuss the great songwriters and their personal favourites. Matthew Sweet presents. Producer Allegra McIlroy.
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28-Aug-2012
BBC Proms - 2012 Season: Prom 59: 1. Prom 59 - Gershwin, Porter, Kern, Willson, Rodgers, Adler and Ross
Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Petroc Trelawny The John Wilson Orchestra and a starry cast of soloists present a tribute to the composers and arrangers responsible for creating The Broadway Sound. After last year's celebration of the Hollywood screen musical, John Wilson and his hand-picked orchestra present a tribute to the composers and arrangers responsible for creating the Broadway Sound. Among them such legendary tunesmiths as Jerome Kern, Cole Porter, Irving Berlin, Vincent Youmans, Richard Rodgers and Frank Loesser. Together with a cast of leading soloists the concert includes excerpts from Show Boat, No No Nanette, On Your Toes, Kiss Me Kate and Annie Get Your Gun. Gershwin arr. Don Rose: Funny Face - Overture Porter arr. Don Walker: Kiss Me, Kate - Another' Openin', Another Show Kern arr. Robert Russell Bennett: Show Boat - Make Believe / Old Man River Rodgers arr. Don Walker: On Your Toes - Slaughter On Tenth Avenue Willson arr. Don Walker: The Music Man - Ya Got Trouble Rodgers arr. Hans Spialek: The Boys From Syracuse - Falling In Love With Love Rodgers arr. Robert Russell Bennett: South Pacific - Younger Than Springtime Adler and Ross: The Pajama Game - Seven and a Half Cents Sierra Bogess, soprano Anna-Jane Casey, belt girl Rodney Earl Clarke, bass Elizabeth Llewellyn, soprano Seth MacFarlane, baritone Julian Ovenden, tenor Maida Vale Singers John Wilson Orchestra John Wilson, conductor.
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28-Aug-2012
BBC Proms - 2012 Season: Prom 58: 2. Blind Boys of Alabama
Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Louise Fryer A Family Matinee Prom in which the Northern Sinfonia take us on a journey to the far corners of our musical world. The orchestra are joined by the BBC Proms Family Orchestra and Chorus, the Montenegrin guitar star Milos Karadaglic, the gospel vocal group Blind Boys of Alabama and Radio 3's World Routes Academy protégé, veena player Hari Sivanesan in a programme which features poplular classical works side by side with music from around the globe. Made up of families of all shapes and sizes, the BBC Proms Family Orchestra and Chorus are like none you have heard before; expect an age range of 8 to 80 on stage and more than the usual range of orchestral instruments. BBC Proms Family Orchestra & Chorus: Wish You Were Here Blind Boys of Alabama: Praying Time (a cappella) Blind Boys of Alabama, arr. Jason Yarde: People get ready; Take the High Road; Amazing Grace; Down By the Riverside Milos Karadaglic (guitar) Hari Sivanesan (veena) The Blind Boys of Alabama Northern Sinfonia Stephen Bell (conductor) The BBC Proms Family Orchestra & Chorus Lincoln Abbotts (director).
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28-Aug-2012
BBC Proms - 2012 Season: Prom 58: 1. Dvorak, Delius, Sivanesan, Falla, Rodrigo, Bizet
Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Louise Fryer A Family Matinee Prom in which the Northern Sinfonia take us on a journey to the far corners of our musical world. The orchestra are joined by the BBC Proms Family Orchestra and Chorus, the Montenegrin guitar star Milos Karadaglic, the gospel vocal group Blind Boys of Alabama and Radio 3's World Routes Academy protégé, veena player Hari Sivanesan in a programme which features poplular classical works side by side with music from around the globe. Made up of families of all shapes and sizes, the BBC Proms Family Orchestra and Chorus are like none you have heard before; expect an age range of 8 to 80 on stage and more than the usual range of orchestral instruments. Dvorák: Slavonic Dance in C major, Op. 46 No. 1 Delius: On Hearing the First Cuckoo in Spring Hari Sivanesan: Hari Sivanesan: Kala - Time Falla: El amor brujo - Ritual Fire Dance Rodrigo: Concierto de Aranjuez - 2nd movement Bizet: L'Arlésienne-Suite no.2: Farandole Milos Karadaglic (guitar) Hari Sivanesan (veena) The Blind Boys of Alabama Northern Sinfonia Stephen Bell (conductor) The BBC Proms Family Orchestra & Chorus Lincoln Abbotts (director).
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28-Aug-2012
BBC Proms - 2012 Season: Proms Chamber Music: 7. PCM 07 - Christine Schafer, Nash Ensemble
Live from Cadogan Hall, London Presented by Clemency Burton-Hill A recital given by the Nash Ensemble performing one of this season's featured composers, Debussy, with one of his last works, the lyrical and Autumnal Sonata for flute, viola and harp. That's contrasted by Schoenberg's extraordinary Expressionist melodrama Pierrot Lunaire, in which a murderous Pierrot's story is told by 'sprechgesang'. This half-speech half-sung style is something of a trademark for soprano Christine Schäfer, who joins the Nash Ensemble. Debussy: Sonata for flute, viola and harp Schoenberg: Pierrot Lunaire Christine Schäfer (Sprechstimme) Nash Ensemble Martyn Brabbins (conductor) This concert will be repeated on Saturday 1st September at 2pm.
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27-Aug-2012
BBC Proms - 2012 Season: Prom 57: 2. Strauss, Ravel
Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Petroc Trelawny A programme of four works which in different ways reach out beyond the sound-world of late Romanticism. Wagner's ultra-chromatic opera Parsifal pushes the boundaries of traditional tonality, while Berg's heartfelt Violin Concerto leaves normal tonality altogether. Richard Strauss's Suite from Der Rosenkavalier injects the Viennese Waltz with luscious harmonies to conjure up a fantasy of the past, and Ravel's ominously prescient La Valse seems to predict the dissolution of European culture after the First World War. The Gustav Mahler Jugendorchester is one of the great youth orchestras of the world and they make a welcome return with the Italian conductor Daniele Gatti who brings this programme fresh from a tour of the summer festivals of Salzburg, Lucerne and Edinburgh. They are joined in the Berg Violin Concerto by the German violinist Frank Peter Zimmermann who plays a Stradivarius once owned by the great Fritz Kreisler. R Strauss: Der Rosenkavalier - suite Ravel: La valse Frank Peter Zimmermann (violin) Gustav Mahler Jugendorchester Daniele Gatti (conductor) This Prom will be repeated on Friday 7th September at 2pm.
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27-Aug-2012
BBC Proms - 2012 Season: Proms Live Interval: Part 7
Another Sunday evening live Prom interval from the Radio 3 box, including guest prommer John Sessions. There is also a regular mini-series, "Lucy Worsley's Kensington", in which the historian takes a characteristically quirky look at things of interest within a stone's throw of the Royal Albert Hall. Plus other features and discussions looking ahead to this week's concerts.
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27-Aug-2012
BBC Proms - 2012 Season: Prom 57: 1. Wagner, Berg
Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Petroc Trelawny A programme of four works which in different ways reach out beyond the sound-world of late Romanticism. Wagner's ultra-chromatic opera Parsifal pushes the boundaries of traditional tonality, while Berg's heartfelt Violin Concerto leaves normal tonality altogether. Richard Strauss's Suite from Der Rosenkavalier injects the Viennese Waltz with luscious harmonies to conjure up a fantasy of the past, and Ravel's ominously prescient La Valse seems to predict the dissolution of European culture after the First World War. The Gustav Mahler Jugendorchester is one of the great youth orchestras of the world and they make a welcome return with the Italian conductor Daniele Gatti who brings this programme fresh from a tour of the summer festivals of Salzburg, Lucerne and Edinburgh. They are joined in the Berg Violin Concerto by the German violinist Frank Peter Zimmermann who plays a Stradivarius once owned by the great Fritz Kreisler. Wagner: Parsifal - Prelude (Act 3) and Good Friday Music Berg: Violin Concerto Frank Peter Zimmermann (violin) Gustav Mahler Jugendorchester Daniele Gatti (conductor) This Prom will be repeated on Friday 7th September at 2pm.
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27-Aug-2012
BBC Proms - 2012 Season: Proms Plus: Gustav Mahler Jugendorchester
Live from the Royal College of Music, London Presented by Andrew McGregor Musicians from the Gustav Mahler Jugendorchester join presenter Andrew McGregor to give some musical insights into tonight's Proms programme of Wagner, Berg, Richard Strauss and Ravel.
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26-Aug-2012
BBC Proms - 2012 Season: Proms Composer Portraits: Helen Grime
Following the World Premiere of her Night Songs in this evening's Prom, Helen Grime in conversation with Tom Service introduces performances of her chamber music given by students from the Royal College of Music. Helen Grime: 10 Miniatures for solo piano (2009) Helen Grime: To see the summer sky, for violin and viola (2009) Helen Grime: Shadowplay, for soprano saxophone and piano (2011).
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26-Aug-2012
BBC Proms - 2012 Season: Prom 56: 2. Helen Grime, Debussy
Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Louise Fryer Oliver Knussen celebrates his 60th birthday with the BBC Symphony Orchestra performing his own 3rd Symphony, works by Alexander Goehr, Helen Grime and Debussy's The Martyrdom of St Sebastian. Alexander Goehr's 80th birthday is marked by a revival of his imaginary ballet, and there's the world premiere of Helen Grime's Night Songs. Debussy's exquisite and refined incidental music for a mystery play appears complete for the first time at the Proms - with the BBC National Chorus of Wales and the New London Chamber Choir joining the three British soloists. Helen Grime: Night Songs (BBC commission: world premiere) Debussy: The Martyrdom of St Sebastian Claire Booth (soprano) Polly May (mezzo-soprano) Clare McCaldin (mezzo-soprano) BBC National Chorus of Wales New London Chamber Choir BBC Symphony Orchestra Oliver Knussen (conductor) This Prom will be repeated on Thursday 6 September at 2pm.
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26-Aug-2012
BBC Proms - 2012 Season: Prom 56: 1. Goehr, Knussen
Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Louise Fryer Oliver Knussen celebrates his 60th birthday with the BBC Symphony Orchestra performing his own 3rd Symphony, works by Alexander Goehr, Helen Grime and Debussy's The Martyrdom of St Sebastian. Alexander Goehr's 80th birthday is marked by a revival of his imaginary ballet, and there's the world premiere of Helen Grime's Night Songs. Debussy's exquisite and refined incidental music for a mystery play appears complete for the first time at the Proms - with the BBC National Chorus of Wales and the New London Chamber Choir joining the three British soloists. Alexander Goehr: Metamorphosis/Dance Oliver Knussen: Symphony No.3 Claire Booth (soprano) Polly May (mezzo-soprano) Clare McCaldin (mezzo-soprano) BBC National Chorus of Wales New London Chamber Choir BBC Symphony Orchestra Oliver Knussen (conductor) This Prom will be repeated on Thursday 6 September at 2pm.
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25-Aug-2012
BBC Proms - 2012 Season: Prom 55: 3. Britten - Peter Grimes (Act 3)
Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Martin Handley English National Opera, conducted by Edward Gardner, performs one of the greatest of all English operas. Australian tenor Stuart Skelton sings the title role of the unpredictable fisherman, Peter Grimes, an outsider in a closed Suffolk community. Only the schoolteacher Ellen Orford and the old sea captain Balstrode treat Grimes like a normal human being. But will their friendship be enough to defend him when local hostility boils over into virtual mob rule? English National Opera's revolutionary 2009 production of Britten's Peter Grimes revealed a side of the opera few had suspected. Not just one of the greatest of all English operas, but a masterpiece in a great European tradition - with musical echoes of Berg and German Expressionism. As the conductor, ENO's Music Director Edward Gardner, puts it: 'Grimes has a freedom, a strength and an emotionally connected, visceral quality that I don't think Britten ever quite recaptured - it's a piece that, at its best, feels unshackled and dangerous, and very un-English. That's why I rate it so highly.' Tonight at the Royal Albert Hall you can hear precisely what he means - as ENO reunite their cast for one night only at the BBC Proms. Britten: Peter Grimes - Act 3 Stuart Skelton .... Peter Grimes (tenor) Amanda Roocroft .... Ellen Orford (soprano) Iain Paterson .... Balstrode (bass-baritone) Rebecca de Pont Davies .... Auntie (mezzo-soprano) Mark Richardson .... Swallow (baritone) Leigh Melrose .... Ned Keene (baritone) Michael Colvin .... Bob Boles (tenor) Felicity Palmer .... Mrs Sedley (mezzo-soprano) Gillian Ramm .... 1st Niece (soprano) Mairead Buicke .... 2nd Niece (soprano) Darren Jeffery .... Hobson (bass-baritone) Stuart Kale .... Revd Horace Adams (tenor) Jacob Mason-White .... John (apprentice) ENO Chorus and Orchestra Edward Gardner (conductor).
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25-Aug-2012
BBC Proms - 2012 Season: Prom 55: 2. Britten - Peter Grimes (Act 2)
Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Martin Handley English National Opera, conducted by Edward Gardner, performs one of the greatest of all English operas. Australian tenor Stuart Skelton sings the title role of the unpredictable fisherman, Peter Grimes, an outsider in a closed Suffolk community. Only the schoolteacher Ellen Orford and the old sea captain Balstrode treat Grimes like a normal human being. But will their friendship be enough to defend him when local hostility boils over into virtual mob rule? English National Opera's revolutionary 2009 production of Britten's Peter Grimes revealed a side of the opera few had suspected. Not just one of the greatest of all English operas, but a masterpiece in a great European tradition - with musical echoes of Berg and German Expressionism. As the conductor, ENO's Music Director Edward Gardner, puts it: 'Grimes has a freedom, a strength and an emotionally connected, visceral quality that I don't think Britten ever quite recaptured - it's a piece that, at its best, feels unshackled and dangerous, and very un-English. That's why I rate it so highly.' Tonight at the Royal Albert Hall you can hear precisely what he means - as ENO reunite their cast for one night only at the BBC Proms. Britten: Peter Grimes - Act 2 Stuart Skelton .... Peter Grimes (tenor) Amanda Roocroft .... Ellen Orford (soprano) Iain Paterson .... Balstrode (bass-baritone) Rebecca de Pont Davies .... Auntie (mezzo-soprano) Mark Richardson .... Swallow (baritone) Leigh Melrose .... Ned Keene (baritone) Michael Colvin .... Bob Boles (tenor) Felicity Palmer .... Mrs Sedley (mezzo-soprano) Gillian Ramm .... 1st Niece (soprano) Mairead Buicke .... 2nd Niece (soprano) Darren Jeffery .... Hobson (bass-baritone) Stuart Kale .... Revd Horace Adams (tenor) Jacob Mason-White .... John (apprentice) ENO Chorus and Orchestra Edward Gardner (conductor).
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25-Aug-2012
BBC Proms - 2012 Season: Prom 55: 1. Britten - Peter Grimes (Act 1)
Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Martin Handley English National Opera, conducted by Edward Gardner, performs one of the greatest of all English operas. Australian tenor Stuart Skelton sings the title role of the unpredictable fisherman, Peter Grimes, an outsider in a closed Suffolk community. Only the schoolteacher Ellen Orford and the old sea captain Balstrode treat Grimes like a normal human being. But will their friendship be enough to defend him when local hostility boils over into virtual mob rule? English National Opera's revolutionary 2009 production of Britten's Peter Grimes revealed a side of the opera few had suspected. Not just one of the greatest of all English operas, but a masterpiece in a great European tradition - with musical echoes of Berg and German Expressionism. As the conductor, ENO's Music Director Edward Gardner, puts it: 'Grimes has a freedom, a strength and an emotionally connected, visceral quality that I don't think Britten ever quite recaptured - it's a piece that, at its best, feels unshackled and dangerous, and very un-English. That's why I rate it so highly.' Tonight at the Royal Albert Hall you can hear precisely what he means - as ENO reunite their cast for one night only at the BBC Proms. Britten: Peter Grimes (concert performance) - Act 1 Stuart Skelton .... Peter Grimes (tenor) Amanda Roocroft .... Ellen Orford (soprano) Iain Paterson .... Balstrode (bass-baritone) Rebecca de Pont Davies .... Auntie (mezzo-soprano) Mark Richardson .... Swallow (baritone) Leigh Melrose .... Ned Keene (baritone) Michael Colvin .... Bob Boles (tenor) Felicity Palmer .... Mrs Sedley (mezzo-soprano) Gillian Ramm .... 1st Niece (soprano) Mairead Buicke .... 2nd Niece (soprano) Darren Jeffery .... Hobson (bass-baritone) Stuart Kale .... Revd Horace Adams (tenor) Jacob Mason-White .... John (apprentice) ENO Chorus and Orchestra Edward Gardner (conductor).
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24-Aug-2012
BBC Proms - 2012 Season: Proms Plus: Ken Russell Celebration
Glenda Jackson MP and the film critic Mark Kermode celebrate the work of the late Ken Russell, the director of controversial films about Delius,Tchaikovsky, Elgar and Strauss - as well as 'Women in Love', for which Glenda Jackson won an Oscar. Matthew Sweet presents. Producer Gavin Heard.
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24-Aug-2012
BBC Proms - 2012 Season: Prom 54: 2. Shostakovich
Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Andrew McGregor Vasily Petrenko conducts the Royal Liverpool Philarmonic Orchestra in contrasting symphonies by Peter Maxwell Davies and Shostakovich and Tasmin Little performs Delius's rhapsodic Violin Concerto The concert opens with a work to celebrate Her Majesty's Diamond Jubilee, composed by the Master of the Queen's Music, Sir Peter Maxwell Davies. This is the London premiere of his Symphony no.9, a one movement work for orchestra and brass sextet. Vasily Petrenko and the RLPO premiered this work in Liverpool earlier this year in June. Violinist Tasmin Little is a passionate champion of Delius's music, and she joins the Orchestra in a performance of Delius' violin concerto, to mark the 150th anniversary of the composer's birth. The concert concludes with a performance of Shostakovich's Tenth Symphony; the RLPO under conductor Vasily Petrenko are known for their high-voltage performances of this dramatic repertoire. Shostakovich: Symphony No. 10 in E minor Tasmin Little (violin) Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra Vasily Petrenko (conductor) This Prom will be repeated on Tuesday 4th September at 2pm.
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24-Aug-2012
BBC Proms - 2012 Season: Prom 53: 1. Maxwell Davies, Delius
Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Andrew McGregor Vasily Petrenko conducts the Royal Liverpool Philarmonic Orchestra in contrasting symphonies by Peter Maxwell Davies and Shostakovich and Tasmin Little performs Delius's rhapsodic Violin Concerto The concert opens with a work to celebrate Her Majesty's Diamond Jubilee, composed by the Master of the Queen's Music, Sir Peter Maxwell Davies. This is the London premiere of his Symphony no.9, a one movement work for orchestra and brass sextet. Vasily Petrenko and the RLPO premiered this work in Liverpool earlier this year in June. Violinist Tasmin Little is a passionate champion of Delius's music, and she joins the Orchestra in a performance of Delius' violin concerto, to mark the 150th anniversary of the composer's birth. The concert concludes with a performance of Shostakovich's Tenth Symphony; the RLPO under conductor Vasily Petrenko are known for their high-voltage performances of this dramatic repertoire. Sir Peter Maxwell Davies: Symphony No. 9 (London premiere) Delius: Violin Concerto Tasmin Little (violin) Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra Vasily Petrenko (conductor) This Prom will be repeated on Tuesday 4th September at 2pm.
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23-Aug-2012
BBC Proms - 2012 Season: Prom 53 - Viadana, Bassano, Grandi, Gabrieli, Monteverdi
Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Catherine Bott 1612 Italian Vespers: Robert Hollingworth conducts his ensemble I Fagiolini in Italian music from 400 years ago - in up to 28 different parts and perfect for the wide open spaces of the Royal Albert Hall. Monteverdi's Vespers of 1610 is a Proms favourite, but Robert Hollingworth, conductor of I Fagiolini, reckons this is something even better: 'I adore Monteverdi's Vespers, but Lodovico Viadana's collection is even more forward-looking in its exchanges between inventive, expressive solos and choir. Viadana encouraged performers to double the choirs in large spaces, so we'll be doing that in the Royal Albert Hall with singers, cornett, sackbuts, strings and dulcians' - a kind of early bassoon. Alongside the Viadana, there is one piece by Monteverdi too - Salve Regina - and new reconstructions of two enormous works by Giovanni Gabrieli, for as many as 28 different parts. Like the Handel Water Music and Royal Fireworks Music Prom earlier in the season, it should be a great Baroque experience in the Royal Albert Hall - and a tremendous noise. Viadana: Salmi a quattro chori (1612) - Deus in adiutorium; Dixit Dominus Bassano: Divisions on Palestrina Introduxit me Rex Viadana: Salmi a quattro chori (1612) - Laetatus sum Viadana: O dulcissima Maria Viadana: Salmi a quattro chori (1612) - Lauda Ierusalem Grandi: Plorabo die ac nocte G.Gabrieli (reconstr. Keyte): Magnificat a 20/28 con il 'sicut locutus' (London premiere) Monteverdi: Salve Regina G.Gabrieli (reconstr. Keyte): In ecclesiis (world premiere) I Fagiolini Robert Hollingworth (conductor) This Prom will be repeated on Wednesday 5th September at 2pm.
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23-Aug-2012
BBC Proms - 2012 Season: Prom 52: 1. Prokofiev - Cinderella (Acts 1 and 2)
Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Penny Gore Valery Gergiev and the London Symphony Orchestra perform the complete score to Prokofiev's ballet Cinderella which contains some of the composer's most popular and melodious music. This is a rare opportunity to hear Prokofiev's generously melodic fairy-tale ballet score in its full glory under the baton of a conductor steeped in the Russian ballet repertoire. It tells the famous fairytale of poor Cinderella who lives with her wicked stepsisters and goes to the ball after a make-over from a fairy and falls in love with the prince. Able to stay only till midnight when the spell wears off, she loses her slipper which the prince uses to find her again. Prokofiev: Cinderella Op. 87 - Acts I & II London Symphony Orchestra Valery Gergiev (conductor).
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22-Aug-2012
BBC Proms - 2012 Season: Prom 51: 2. Shostakovich
Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Andrew McGregor Glinka's much-loved and exuberant overture to Ruslan and Lyudmila heads a programme which also includes a fasinating new work by Emily Howard and a monumental, barnstorming symphony by Shostakovich. Emily Howard's Calculus of the Nervous Sysytem has already received high acclaim at the 2011 Wien Modern Festival. Howard took her inspiration from Ada Lovelace, who was the pioneering mathematician daughter of Lord Byron, and the work's starting point was Lovelace's desire to generate a mathematical model for how the brain gives rise to thoughts, and nerves to feelings. Shostakovich's massive Seventh Symphony in C major, the 'Leningrad', was completed during the Second World War in December 1941, as German troops advanced deep into the city. The CBSO is conducted by its Music Director, Andris Nelsons. Shostakovich: Symphony No. 7, 'Leningrad' City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra Andris Nelsons (conductor) This Prom will be repeated on Monday 3rd September at 2pm.
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22-Aug-2012
BBC Proms - 2012 Season: Proms Plus: Faith and Doubt
The novelist Pat Barker and the Reverend Giles Fraser explore what Russian literature from Dostoevsky to Tolstoy can teach us about faith, doubt and redemption, with readings from their personal favourites. Ian McMillan presents. Producer Laura Thomas.
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22-Aug-2012
BBC Proms - 2012 Season: Prom 51: 1. Glinka, Emily Howard
Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Andrew McGregor Glinka's much-loved and exuberant overture to Ruslan and Lyudmila heads a programme which also includes a fasinating new work by Emily Howard and a monumental, barnstorming symphony by Shostakovich. Emily Howard's Calculus of the Nervous Sysytem has already received high acclaim at the 2011 Wien Modern Festival. Howard took her inspiration from Ada Lovelace, who was the pioneering mathematician daughter of Lord Byron, and the work's starting point was Lovelace's desire to generate a mathematical model for how the brain gives rise to thoughts, and nerves to feelings. Shostakovich's massive Seventh Symphony in C major, the 'Leningrad', was completed during the Second World War in December 1941, as German troops advanced deep into the city. The CBSO is conducted by its Music Director, Andris Nelsons. Glinka: Ruslan and Lyudmila - Overture Emily Howard: Calculus of the Nervous System (UK premiere) City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra Andris Nelsons (conductor) This Prom will be repeated on Monday 3rd September at 2pm.
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21-Aug-2012
BBC Proms - 2012 Season: Prom 50: 2. Delius, Nielsen
Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Penny Gore An overture and a symphony by two musical Titans - Beethoven and Nielsen - both celebrating the human capacity for hope in the face of oppression and suffering, frame a lyrical Mozart concerto and a rarely heard tone poem by Delius. Osmo Vänskä conducts the BBC Symphony Orchestra, with soloist Michael Collins who is celebrating his 50th birthday this year. Delius's Eventyr, inspired by a collection of Norwegian folk tales published in 1841, is making only its second appearance at the Proms. Delius: Eventyr (Once Upon a Time) Nielsen: Symphony No. 5 Michael Collins (clarinet) BBC Symphony Orchestra Osmo Vänskä (conductor) This Prom will be repeated on Sunday 2nd September at 2pm.
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21-Aug-2012
BBC Proms - 2012 Season: Prom 50: 1. Beethoven, Mozart
Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Penny Gore An overture and a symphony by two musical Titans - Beethoven and Nielsen - both celebrating the human capacity for hope in the face of oppression and suffering, frame a lyrical Mozart concerto and a rarely heard tone poem by Delius. Osmo Vänskä conducts the BBC Symphony Orchestra, with soloist Michael Collins who is celebrating his 50th birthday this year. Delius's Eventyr, inspired by a collection of Norwegian folk tales published in 1841, is making only its second appearance at the Proms. Beethoven: Egmont Overture Mozart: Clarinet Concerto Michael Collins (clarinet) BBC Symphony Orchestra Osmo Vänskä (conductor) This Prom will be repeated on Sunday 2nd September at 2pm.
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21-Aug-2012
BBC Proms - 2012 Season: Proms Chamber Music: 6. Escher Quartet
Live from Cadogan Hall, London Presented by Clemency Burton-Hill BBC New Generation Artists the Escher Quartet play two innovative string quartets by Hugh Wood and Debussy. Written as a young man by one of this season's featured composers, Debussy's early string quartet is a forward-looking work with its sensual colours and improvisatory feel. It's paired with the 4th String Quartet by Hugh Wood, a work recently selected for 'Encore' - a partneship scheme between the Royal Philharmonic Society and BBC Radio 3 - designed to give repeat performances of notable contemporary chamber compositions. Hugh Wood: String Quartet No 4 Debussy: String Quartet Escher Quartet This concert will be repeated on Saturday 25th August at 2pm.
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20-Aug-2012
BBC Proms - 2012 Season: Proms Plus Late: 19/08/2012
Informal post-Prom music and poetry from emerging young artists.
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20-Aug-2012
BBC Proms - 2012 Season: Prom 49: 2. The Yeoman of the Guard - Act 2
Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Catherine Bott Gilbert and Sullivan: The Yeomen of the Guard Gilbert and Sullivan's richest and most emotionally engaging operetta set at the Tower of London in the 16th Century, is considered by many to be Sullivan's finest musical score. Young Colonel Fairfax is imprisoned under the sentence of death for sorcery - in reality he's a scientist and alchemist - but a young girl, Phoebe Meryll and her father who served with Fairfax in the army plan to spring him from the Tower. Add to the story a lovelorn jailer, a young singer, a jester and the Yeomen themselves and you have the makings of a typical G&S operetta with lots of room for humour and twists of plot. The strong cast of soloists and an orchestra and conductor renowned for their G&S performances at the Proms will guarantee a memorable evening. Gilbert and Sullivan: The Yeomen of the Guard - Act II Elsie Maynard ..... Lisa Milne (soprano) Colonel Fairfax ..... Andrew Kennedy (tenor) Jack Point ..... Mark Stone (baritone) Dame Carruthers ..... Felicity Palmer (mezzo-soprano) Sergeant Meryll ..... Mark Richardson (baritone) Wilfred Shadbolt ..... Toby Stafford-Allen (bass) Phoebe Meryll ..... Heather Shipp (mezzo-soprano) Lieutenant Sir Richard Cholmondeley ..... Leigh Melrose (bass-baritone) Leonard Meryll ..... Tom Randle (tenor) Kate ..... Mary Bevan (soprano) First Yeoman ..... Jonathan McGovern (baritone) Second Yeoman ..... Marcus Farnsworth (baritone) Martin Duncan (director) BBC Singers BBC Concert Orchestra Jane Glover (conductor).
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20-Aug-2012
BBC Proms - 2012 Season: Proms Live Interval: 6. The Yeomen of the Guard
A Sunday live Prom interval from the Radio 3 box, with guest actor and director Fiona Shaw and another installment of a regular mini-series, Lucy Worsley's Kensington, which takes a characteristically quirky look at things of interest within a stone's throw of the Royal Albert Hall. Plus other features and discussions looking ahead to this week's Proms concerts.
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20-Aug-2012
BBC Proms - 2012 Season: Prom 49: 1. The Yeomen of the Guard - Act 1
Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Catherine Bott Gilbert and Sullivan: The Yeomen of the Guard Gilbert and Sullivan's richest and most emotionally engaging operetta set at the Tower of London in the 16th Century, is considered by many to be Sullivan's finest musical score. Young Colonel Fairfax is imprisoned under the sentence of death for sorcery - in reality he's a scientist and alchemist - but a young girl, Phoebe Meryll and her father who served with Fairfax in the army plan to spring him from the Tower. Add to the story a lovelorn jailer, a young singer, a jester and the Yeomen themselves and you have the makings of a typical G&S operetta with lots of room for humour and twists of plot. The strong cast of soloists and an orchestra and conductor renowned for their G&S performances at the Proms will guarantee a memorable evening. Gilbert and Sullivan: The Yeomen of the Guard - Act I Elsie Maynard ..... Lisa Milne (soprano) Colonel Fairfax ..... Andrew Kennedy (tenor) Jack Point ..... Mark Stone (baritone) Dame Carruthers ..... Felicity Palmer (mezzo-soprano) Sergeant Meryll ..... Mark Richardson (baritone) Wilfred Shadbolt ..... Toby Stafford-Allen (bass) Phoebe Meryll ..... Heather Shipp (mezzo-soprano) Lieutenant Sir Richard Cholmondeley ..... Leigh Melrose (bass-baritone) Leonard Meryll ..... Tom Randle (tenor) Kate ..... Mary Bevan (soprano) First Yeoman ..... Jonathan McGovern (baritone) Second Yeoman ..... Marcus Farnsworth (baritone) Martin Duncan (director) BBC Singers BBC Concert Orchestra Jane Glover (conductor).
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20-Aug-2012
BBC Proms - 2012 Season: Proms Plus: The Yeomen of the Guard
Live from the Royal College of Music, London Sara Mohr-Pietsch presents an exploration of tonight's Prom - The Yeomen of the Guard - with live extracts performed by members of the BBC Concert Orchestra and BBC Singers.
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19-Aug-2012
BBC Proms - 2012 Season: Proms Plus: Christine Rice
Leading mezzo-soprano Christine Rice reveals her literary passions and talks about what she'll be reading this summer. Matthew Sweet presents. Producer Luke Mulhall.
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19-Aug-2012
BBC Proms - 2012 Season: Prom 48: 2. Tchaikovsky
Presented by Petroc Trelawny Vladimir Jurowski conducts the London Philharmonic in one of his favourite symphonies, Tchaikovsky's Manfred. Plus Weber's Overture Der Freischütz and Mahler songs with Alice Coote. The London Philharmonic and their Principal Conductor Vladimir Jurowski perform three works exploring the relationship between humankind, the natural and the supernatural. They begin with the Overture to Weber's opera Der Freischütz - the story of a marksman who makes a pact with the devil to improve his aim. Mezzo-soprano Alice Coote joins the orchestra for Mahler's first great song cycle, Lieder eines fahrenden Gesellen - Songs of a Wayfarer: the wayfarer is a young man disappointed in love (as Mahler himself was at the time), wandering the countryside in the attempt to find consolation or oblivion in nature. Byron's Manfred - inspiration for Tchaikovsky's Manfred Symphony - is in an even worse state. Tortured by guilt over the death of his beloved Astarte, he wanders in the Alps, encountering the local people (symbolic of the 'normal' human life he cannot attain) and supernatural beings - can he find ultimate redemption? Tchaikovsky: Manfred Alice Coote (mezzo-soprano) London Philharmonic Orchestra Vladimir Jurowski (conductor) This Prom will be repeated on Wednesday 29th August at 2pm.
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19-Aug-2012
BBC Proms - 2012 Season: Prom 48: 1. Weber, Mahler
Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Petroc Trelawny Vladimir Jurowski conducts the London Philharmonic in one of his favourite symphonies, Tchaikovsky's Manfred. Plus Weber's Overture Der Freischütz and Mahler songs with Alice Coote. The London Philharmonic and their Principal Conductor Vladimir Jurowski perform three works exploring the relationship between humankind, the natural and the supernatural. They begin with the Overture to Weber's opera Der Freischütz - the story of a marksman who makes a pact with the devil to improve his aim. Mezzo-soprano Alice Coote joins the orchestra for Mahler's first great song cycle, Lieder eines fahrenden Gesellen - Songs of a Wayfarer: the wayfarer is a young man disappointed in love (as Mahler himself was at the time), wandering the countryside in the attempt to find consolation or oblivion in nature. Byron's Manfred - inspiration for Tchaikovsky's Manfred Symphony - is in an even worse state. Tortured by guilt over the death of his beloved Astarte, he wanders in the Alps, encountering the local people (symbolic of the 'normal' human life he cannot attain) and supernatural beings - can he find ultimate redemption? Weber: Der Freischütz - overture Mahler: Lieder eines fahrenden Gesellen Alice Coote (mezzo-soprano) London Philharmonic Orchestra Vladimir Jurowski (conductor) This Prom will be repeated on Wednesday 29th August at 2pm.
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19-Aug-2012
BBC Proms - 2012 Season: Proms Saturday Matinees: 4. PSM 04 - Goehr, Knussen, Bainbridge
Live from Cadogan Hall, London. Presented by Christopher Cook. Nicholas Collon conducts the BCMG and London Sinfonietta Voices in music by Goehr and Knussen, and a colourful new piece by Simon Bainbridge: The Garden of Earthly Delights. Linked Ophelia pieces by Oliver Knussen, 60 this year, follow Alexander Goehr's reflection on Bach's compositional procedures, which Knussen himself premiered, wearing his conductor's hat. Also born in 1952, Simon Bainbridge has developed a darker, less mercurial kind of idiom. Inspired by Hieronymus Bosch's extraordinary triptych, his eagerly awaited new work is a labyrinthine journey featuring mezzo-soprano and counter-tenor as well as a narrator. Alexander Goehr: ... a musical offering (J. S. B. 1985)... Oliver Knussen: Ophelia Dances Oliver Knussen: Ophelia's Last Dance Simon Bainbridge: The Garden of Earthly Delights (BBC commission: world premiere) Huw Watkins (piano) Lucy Schaufer (mezzo-soprano) Andrew Watts (counter-tenor) Samuel West (narrator) London Sinfonietta Voices Birmingham Contemporary Music Group Nicholas Collon (Conductor).
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18-Aug-2012
BBC Proms - 2012 Season: Prom 47: John Cage Centenary Celebration - Part 2
Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Andrew McGregor 100 years have passed since John Cage was born. This all-encompasing concert, curated by conductor Ilan Volkov, celebrates the composer's iconoclastic thinking, fertile imagination and arresting humour. "Pay attention" and "take delight" when Ilan volkov is joined by a host of players, improvisers and electronic artists. Music of structure, form, inventiveness and surprise is played from every corner of the Royal Albert Hall. A huge orchestra of 101 musicans is onstage for "101". 5 pianos for "Winter Music". John Tilbury plays Cage's exquisitely beautiful "Concerto for Prepared Piano and Orchestra", visual artist and composer Christian Marclay improvises with an orchestra. David Behrmann, Takehisa Kosugi, Keith Rowe and Christan Wolff create new art in improvisaion, and the evening finshes with music for Catci. "Music is everywhere - you just have to have the ears to hear it." John Cage. John Cage: Concerto for Prepared Piano and Orchestra John Cage: Four squared John Cage: But what about the noise of crumpling paper... John Cage: Experiences II (solo voice) John Cage: ear for EAR (Antiphonies) David Berhman, Takehisa Kosugi, Keith Rowe & Christian Wolff: Quartet - Improvisation John Cage: Branches John Tilbury (prepared piano / piano) Frank Denyer (piano) Aki Takahashi (piano) Christian Wolff (piano) Keith Rowe (guitar/electronics) David Behrman (electronics) Takehisa Kosugi (electronics) Christian Marclay (improvisation) Adam Bohman (cassette player) Jonathan Bohman (cassette player) Vicki Bennett (cassette player) Dylan Nyoukis (cassette player) Karen Constance (cassette player) Christoph Heemann (cassette player) Steve Beresford (cassette player) Mariam Rezaie (cassette player) John Butcher (instrumentalist) Angharad Davies (instrumentalist) Rhodri Davies (instrumentalist) Patrick Farmer (instrumentalist) Ram Gabay (instrumentalist) Lina Lapelyte (instrumentalist) John Lely (instrumentalist) Anton Lukoszevieze (instrumentalist) Robyn Schulkowsky (instrumentalist) Dimitra Lazaridou-Chatzigoga (instrumentalist) Joan La Barbara vocals) BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra Exaudi James Weeks (director of Exaudi) Ilan Volkov (conductor).
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18-Aug-2012
BBC Proms - 2012 Season: Prom 47: John Cage Centenary Celebration - Part 1
Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Andrew McGregor 100 years have passed since John Cage was born. This all-encompasing concert, curated by conductor Ilan Volkov, celebrates the composer's iconoclastic thinking, fertile imagination and arresting humour. "Pay attention" and "take delight" when Ilan volkov is joined by a host of players, improvisers and electronic artists. Music of structure, form, inventiveness and surprise is played from every corner of the Royal Albert Hall. A huge orchestra of 101 musicans is onstage for "101". 5 pianos for "Winter Music". John Tilbury plays Cage's exquisitely beautiful "Concerto for Prepared Piano and Orchestra", visual artist and composer Christian Marclay improvises with an orchestra. David Behrmann, Takehisa Kosugi, Keith Rowe and Christan Wolff create new art in improvisaion, and the evening finshes with music for Catci. "Music is everywhere - you just have to have the ears to hear it." John Cage. John Cage: 101 John Cage: Improvisation III Christian Marclay: Luggage 2012 - improvisation for orchestra John Cage: Atlas Eclipticalis / Winter Music / Cartridge Music John Tilbury (prepared piano / piano) Frank Denyer (piano) Aki Takahashi (piano) Christian Wolff (piano) Keith Rowe (guitar/electronics) David Behrman (electronics) Takehisa Kosugi (electronics) Christian Marclay (improvisation) Adam Bohman (cassette player) Jonathan Bohman (cassette player) Vicki Bennett (cassette player) Dylan Nyoukis (cassette player) Karen Constance (cassette player) Christoph Heemann (cassette player) Steve Beresford (cassette player) Mariam Rezaie (cassette player) John Butcher (instrumentalist) Angharad Davies (instrumentalist) Rhodri Davies (instrumentalist) Patrick Farmer (instrumentalist) Ram Gabay (instrumentalist) Lina Lapelyte (instrumentalist) John Lely (instrumentalist) Anton Lukoszevieze (instrumentalist) Robyn Schulkowsky (instrumentalist) Dimitra Lazaridou-Chatzigoga (instrumentalist) Joan La Barbara vocals) BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra Exaudi James Weeks (director of Exaudi) Ilan Volkov (conductor).
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17-Aug-2012
BBC Proms - 2012 Season: BBC Proms Inspire Young Composers' Concert
BBC Proms Inspire Young Composers' Concert The Aurora Orchestra, conducted by Nicholas Collon, performs the winning entries from this year's Proms Inspire Young Composers' Competition. Now in its fourteenth year, the BBC Proms Inspire Young Composers' Competition continues to provide a platform for budding composers across the UK, providing what most composers only dream of - the chance to have their music played by professional musicians and broadcast on BBC Radio 3. Entries of all genres and for any instrumentation are welcomed and each composition is judged on the following criteria - compositional idea, originality, creativity and appropriate technical ability. The only rules are that entries should last no longer than five minutes and be scored so that other musicians can perform them.
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17-Aug-2012
BBC Proms - 2012 Season: Prom 46: 2. Vaughan Williams - Symphony No 6
Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Martin Handley In this unusual programme, the BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra with their Associate Guest Conductor Andrew Manze perform three differently powerful symphonies by Vaughan Williams who was one of the most important British composers of the last century. These three starkly different works chronicle our national life in the troubled times of the 1930s and 40s. Vaughan Williams denied any prophetic statement of gathering European war clouds, but the 4th symphony, written in 1931-34, is still a work full of anger, menace and turbulence. Perhaps influenced by continental composers writing at the same time, Vaughan Williams was, perhaps unknowingly, holding up a mirror to the increasingly troubled times. In stark contrast to that world, and perhaps as a reaction to the Second World War itself, the 5th Symphony (1938-43) is warmly sunlit with mystical lyricism and is a return to the pastoral, nature visionary music that many people associate with Vaughan Williams. One of the greatest of English symphonies, it was premiered at the Proms in 1943 and the serene final cadence comes as near to perfect peace as any 20th century Symphony. The 6th symphony (1944-47) hits you between the eyes, with what is surely reflecting Britain ravaged by war - anguished and explosive. The last movement sinks to timeless, quiet desolation until we sink into oblivion. Vaughan Williams: Symphony No. 6 BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra Andrew Manze (conductor) This Prom will be repeated on Friday 31 August at 2.00pm.
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17-Aug-2012
BBC Proms - 2012 Season: Proms Plus: Ralph Vaughan Williams
Composer Anthony Payne with an anthology of unexpected readings about Ralph Vaughan Williams, including letters, private papers and reviews. Producer: Zahid Warley.
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17-Aug-2012
BBC Proms - 2012 Season: Prom 46: 1. Vaughan Williams - Symphonies Nos 5 and 6
Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Martin Handley In this unusual programme, the BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra with their Associate Guest Conductor Andrew Manze perform three differently powerful symphonies by Vaughan Williams who was one of the most important British composers of the last century. These three starkly different works chronicle our national life in the troubled times of the 1930s and 40s. Vaughan Williams denied any prophetic statement of gathering European war clouds, but the 4th symphony, written in 1931-34, is still a work full of anger, menace and turbulence. Perhaps influenced by continental composers writing at the same time, Vaughan Williams was, perhaps unknowingly, holding up a mirror to the increasingly troubled times. In stark contrast to that world, and perhaps as a reaction to the Second World War itself, the 5th Symphony (1938-43) is warmly sunlit with mystical lyricism and is a return to the pastoral, nature visionary music that many people associate with Vaughan Williams. One of the greatest of English symphonies, it was premiered at the Proms in 1943 and the serene final cadence comes as near to perfect peace as any 20th century Symphony. The 6th symphony (1944-47) hits you between the eyes, with what is surely reflecting Britain ravaged by war - anguished and explosive. The last movement sinks to timeless, quiet desolation until we sink into oblivion. Vaughan Williams: Symphony No. 4 Vaughan Williams: Symphony No. 5 BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra Andrew Manze (conductor) This Prom will be repeated on Friday 31 August at 2.00pm.
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16-Aug-2012
BBC Proms - 2012 Season: Prom 45: 2. Copland, Joan Tower, Villa-Lobos, Ginastera
Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Louise Fryer Marin Alsop & the São Paulo Symphony Orchestra with music from both American hemispheres, including Dvorák's ever-popular New World Symphony and works by Villa-Lobos, Joan Tower and Ginastera. Music from America North and South features tonight. First the masterpiece through which the Bohemian Dvorák, resident in New York, sought to establish an American musical identity, a symphony exuding nostalgia for his own native woods and fields. Later comes Copland's iconic Fanfare and highlights from Ginastera's best-known score. Joan Tower, whose childhood was spent partly in Bolivia, celebrates 'women who take risks and are adventurous', while distinguished Brazilian pianist Nelson Freire returns to the Proms to play one of Villa-Lobos's most attractive compositions. Copland: Fanfare for the Common Man Joan Tower: Fanfare for the Uncommon Woman Villa-Lobos: Momoprécoce Ginastera: Estancia - suite Nelson Freire (piano) São Paulo Symphony Orchestra Marin Alsop (conductor) This Prom will be repeated on Thursday 30 August at 2.00pm.
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16-Aug-2012
BBC Proms - 2012 Season: Proms Plus: Proms Plus Intro: Marin Alsop and Cathy Graham
Marin Alsop, the new Chief Conductor of the São Paulo Symphony Orchestra, and Cathy Graham of the British Council discuss the orchestra and its place in Brazilian musical life with Petroc Trelawny. Founded in 1954, the São Paulo Symphony Orchestra is the leading and largest orchestra in Latin America with 115 musicians and 52 singers. The orchestra performs over 100 concerts every season at its home, the Sala São Paulo, a restored train station, inaugurated in 1999 as a 1500-seat concert hall, and tours throughout Brazil and abroad. It also runs a publishing house dedicated to the works of Brazilian composers, and a composer in residence program, the most recent incumbent of which is Magnus Lindberg. The orchestra is dedicated to musical education - their outreach programmes were attended by 87,000 children and teenagers last year alone.
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16-Aug-2012
BBC Proms - 2012 Season: Prom 45: 1. Dvorak
Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Louise Fryer Marin Alsop & the São Paulo Symphony Orchestra with music from both American hemispheres, including Dvorák's ever-popular New World Symphony and works by Villa-Lobos, Joan Tower and Ginastera. Music from America North and South features tonight. First the masterpiece through which the Bohemian Dvorák, resident in New York, sought to establish an American musical identity, a symphony exuding nostalgia for his own native woods and fields. Later comes Copland's iconic Fanfare and highlights from Ginastera's best-known score. Joan Tower, whose childhood was spent partly in Bolivia, celebrates 'women who take risks and are adventurous', while distinguished Brazilian pianist Nelson Freire returns to the Proms to play one of Villa-Lobos's most attractive compositions. Dvorák: Symphony No. 9, 'From the New World' Nelson Freire (piano) São Paulo Symphony Orchestra Marin Alsop (conductor) This Prom will be repeated on Thursday 30 August at 2.00pm.
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15-Aug-2012
BBC Proms - 2012 Season: Prom 44 - Ligeti, Berio, Xenakis, Harvey, Andriessen, Cage
Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Tom Service Six classics of post-war music are featured in this Late Night Prom, reflecting Radio 3's Fifty Modern Classics. London Sinfonietta, London Sinfonietta Academy Ensemble and Andre de Ridder play Ligeti, Berio, Xenakis, Harvey, Andriessen and Cage The concert starts with Ligeti's playful Poeme with its 100 ticking metronomes; followed by Berio's iconoclastic Sequenza V for solo trombone; Xenakis's lively Phlegra; Jonathan Harvey's electronic mixture of bell and treble voice, Mortuos plango, vivos voco; Luis Andriessen's Minimalist musical clock, De snelheid; and ending with John Cage's infamous 4 minutes and thirty-three seconds of pure silence. Ligeti: Poème symphonique Berio Sequenza V Xenakis: Phlegra Jonathan Harvey: Mortuos plango, vivos voco Louis Andriessen: De snelheid John Cage: 4'33 Byron Fulcher (trombone) Sound Intermedia (sound projection) London Sinfonietta London Sinfonietta Academy Ensemble André de Ridder (conductor).
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15-Aug-2012
BBC Proms - 2012 Season: Prom 43: 2. Tchaikovsky
Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Katie Derham The Royal Philharmonic Orchestra and its Principal Conductor Charles Dutoit perform a French and Russian themed programme and are joined by young English pianist Benjamin Grosvenor for Saint-Saens's sparkling concerto. Charles Dutoit is a noted interpreter of French music but begins tonight's Prom with an Englishman's impression of Paris: in his150th anniversary year, Frederick Delius' evocation of the city in which he lived for almost a decade receives its first Proms performance since 1984. For much of the 19th century Paris was also home to Camille Saint-Saens and tonight his virtuosic and popular Piano Concerto No 2 in G minor is performed by twenty-year-old pianist Benjamin Grosvenor following his acclaimed First Night Proms debut in 2011. From Paris to St Petersburg for the second half of the evening with Tchaikovsky's penultimate, rousing Symphony No 5. Tchaikovsky: Symphony No. 5 in E minor Benjamin Grosvenor (piano) Royal Philharmonic Orchestra Charles Dutoit (conductor) This Prom will be repeated on Tuesday 28 August at 2.00pm.
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15-Aug-2012
BBC Proms - 2012 Season: Prom 43: 1. Delius, Saint-Saens
Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Katie Derham The Royal Philharmonic Orchestra and its Principal Conductor Charles Dutoit perform a French and Russian themed programme and are joined by young English pianist Benjamin Grosvenor for Saint-Saens's sparkling concerto. Charles Dutoit is a noted interpreter of French music but begins tonight's Prom with an Englishman's impression of Paris: in his150th anniversary year, Frederick Delius' evocation of the city in which he lived for almost a decade receives its first Proms performance since 1984. For much of the 19th century Paris was also home to Camille Saint-Saens and tonight his virtuosic and popular Piano Concerto No 2 in G minor is performed by twenty-year-old pianist Benjamin Grosvenor following his acclaimed First Night Proms debut in 2011. From Paris to St Petersburg for the second half of the evening with Tchaikovsky's penultimate, rousing Symphony No 5. Delius: Paris (The Song of a Great City) Saint-Saens: Piano Concerto No. 2 in G minor Benjamin Grosvenor (piano) Royal Philharmonic Orchestra Charles Dutoit (conductor) This Prom will be repeated on Tuesday 28 August at 2.00pm.
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14-Aug-2012
BBC Proms - 2012 Season: Proms Plus Late: 13/08/2012
Poetry and music from emerging young talent.
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14-Aug-2012
BBC Proms - 2012 Season: Proms Composer Portraits: Olga Neuwirth
Olga Neuwirth talks to Andrew McGregor about her music and introduces two of her chamber works played by musicians from the Royal Academy of Music. The subject of the third Composer Portrait of the 2012 Proms is the Austrian composer Olga Neuwirth, best known in the UK for her opera inspired by the David Lynch film 'Lost Highway'. Two of her chamber works are played by musicians from the Royal Academy of Music and introduced by the composer in conversation with Andrew McGregor. The pieces may be short and for small ensembles, but they both create a feeling of something much bigger - epic, even. Olga Neuwirth: ... ad auras ... (in memoriam H.), for two violins and wooden drum (1999) Marsyas II, for flute, viola, cello and piano (2005).
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14-Aug-2012
BBC Proms - 2012 Season: Prom 42: 2. Bartok
Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Petroc Trelawny Susanna Mälkki conducts the Philharmonia in Prokofiev's dramatically colourful Romeo and Juliet & Bartók's virtuosic Concerto for Orchestra. Viola player Lawrence Power joins them in a challenging new work by Olga Neuwirth. Susanna Mälkki returns to the Proms with two genre-defining 20th-century favourites. Revisiting the doomed love of Verona's most romantic couple, Prokofiev's Romeo and Juliet brought new life to the evening-length ballet, just as Bartók's Concerto for Orchestra demonstrated the potential of a seemingly contradictory title. Between these classics, Lawrence Power joins the Philharmonia Orchestra to tackle the fiendishly difficult solo part in Olga Neuwirth's recent work for viola and orchestra, comprising five breathtaking, seething, allusion-rich movements. Bartok: Concerto for Orchestra Lawrence Power (viola) Philharmonia Orchestra Susanna Mälkki (conductor) This Prom will be repeated on Sunday 26 August at 2.00pm.
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14-Aug-2012
BBC Proms - 2012 Season: Prom 42: 1. Prokofiev, Olga Neuwirth
Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Petroc Trelawny Susanna Mälkki conducts the Philharmonia in Prokofiev's dramatically colourful Romeo and Juliet & Bartók's virtuosic Concerto for Orchestra. Viola player Lawrence Power joins them in a challenging new work by Olga Neuwirth. Susanna Mälkki returns to the Proms with two genre-defining 20th-century favourites. Revisiting the doomed love of Verona's most romantic couple, Prokofiev's Romeo and Juliet brought new life to the evening-length ballet, just as Bartók's Concerto for Orchestra demonstrated the potential of a seemingly contradictory title. Between these classics, Lawrence Power joins the Philharmonia Orchestra to tackle the fiendishly difficult solo part in Olga Neuwirth's recent work for viola and orchestra, comprising five breathtaking, seething, allusion-rich movements. Prokofiev: Romeo and Juliet - Suite No. 1 Olga Neuwirth: Remnants of Songs... an Amphigory Lawrence Power (viola) Philharmonia Orchestra Susanna Mälkki (conductor) This Prom will be repeated on Sunday 26 August at 2.00pm.
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14-Aug-2012
BBC Proms - 2012 Season: Proms Chamber Music: PCM 05: 5. Benedetti, Grynyuk, Elschenbroich
Live from Cadogan Hall, London Presented by Clemency Burton-Hill Popular young artist, Nicola Benedetti, is joined by two friends for a programme which ranges from solo violin to piano trio. The programme begins with Benedetti alone on stage performing the famous Chaconne from Bach's Solo Violin Partita in D minor, one of the peaks of the violin repertoire not only technically but dramatically too. Benedetti is then joined by pianist Grynyuk in two arrangements from Korngold's opera 'Die tote Stadt' including the bittersweet melodies of Marietta's Song. Finally they are joined by cellist Elschenbroich for Brahms tightly argued final Piano Trio. J.S. Bach: Partita No. 2 in D minor, BWV 1004 - Chaconne Korngold: Die tote Stadt - Marietta's Song; Pierrot's Dance Song Brahms: Piano Trio No. 3 This concert will be repeated on Saturday 18th August at 2pm Nicola Benedetti (violin) Alexei Grynyuk (piano) Leonard Elschenbroich (cello).
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13-Aug-2012
BBC Proms - 2012 Season: Prom 41 - Schoenberg's Gurrelieder
Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Penny Gore Schoenberg's rarely performed choral blockbuster Gurrelieder. Jukka-Pekka Saraste conducts the BBC SO, a stellar line-up of soloists, and a massed choir of some 300 voices. Following Beethoven's 'Choral' Symphony on the opening night of the London Olympics, the closing night sees another choral blockbuster - Schoenberg's Gurrelieder. Based on the poetry of Jens Peter Jacobsen, the cantata traces the ill-fated relationship between Danish king, Waldemar Atterdag, and his mistress Tove. The medieval love-tragedy is an early masterpiece in which Schoenberg's late-Romantic voluptuousness attains a radiant C major sunrise apotheosis. Augmenting the forces of the BBC Symphony Orchestra and Chorus and the BBC Singers, Jukka-Pekka Saraste welcomes two guest choirs. Plus, an impressive international solo line-up is headed by New Zealand tenor Simon O'Neill as Waldemar, the cursed king. German soprano Angela Denoke makes her Proms debut. Schoenberg: Gurrelieder Waldemar ..... Simon O'Neil (tenor) Tove ..... Angela Denoke (soprano) Wood Dove ..... Katarina Karnéus (mezzo-soprano) Peasant ..... Neal Davies (bass-baritone) Klaus the Fool ..... Jeffrey Lloyd Roberts (tenor) Speaker ..... Wolfgang Schoene BBC Singers BBC Symphony Chorus Crouch End Festival Chorus New London Chamber Choir BBC Symphony Orchestra Jukka-Pekka Saraste (conductor) This Prom will be repeated on Friday 24th August at 2pm.
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13-Aug-2012
BBC Proms - 2012 Season: Proms Plus: Proms Plus Intro: Schoenberg's Gurrelieder
Live from the Royal College of Music, London Presented by Andrew McGregor Andrew McGregor and musicians of the BBCSO and the BBC Singers discuss Schoenberg's epic cantata Gurrelieder. This enormous work, a medieval love-tragedy, is an early masterpiece in which Schoenberg's late-romantic voluptuous style attains a radiant C-major apotheosis.
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13-Aug-2012
BBC Proms - 2012 Season: Prom 40: 2. Leighton Lucas, John Pickard, Gavin Bryars, George Benjamin, Derek Bourgeois
Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Louise Fryer Youth and a celebration of national ensembles are major strands at this year's Proms and they come together in this concert. Two ensembles share the bill and each introduces a brand-new work in the context of mixed programmes of British music. And a suitably patriotic touch in this Jubilee year comes in the form of Walton's Crown Imperial and Derek Bourgeois's virtuosic Blitz. Part Two: National Youth Brass Band Lucas: Chorale and Variations John Pickard: Wildfire Gavin Bryars: After the Underworlds (BBC Commission - world premiere) George Benjamin: Altitude Derek Bourgeois: Blitz National Youth Wind Orchestra of Great Britain James Gourlay (conductor) National Youth Brass Band of Great Britain Bramwell Tovey (conductor).
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13-Aug-2012
BBC Proms - 2012 Season: Proms Live Interval: Part 5
The fifth of eight Sunday evening live Proms intervals from the Radio 3 box, with guest Alison Balsom and another instalment of a regular mini-series, Lucy Worsley's Kensington, which takes a characteristically quirky look at things of interest within a stone's throw of the Royal Albert Hall, plus other features and discussions looking ahead to this week's concerts.
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13-Aug-2012
BBC Proms - 2012 Season: Prom 40: 1. Vaughan Williams, Holst, Gavin Higgins, Martin Ellerby, Walton
Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Louise Fryer Youth and a celebration of national ensembles are major strands at this year's Proms and they come together in this concert. Two ensembles share the bill and each introduces a brand-new work in the context of mixed programmes of British music. And a suitably patriotic touch in this Jubilee year comes in the form of Walton's Crown Imperial and Derek Bourgeois's virtuosic Blitz. Part One: National Youth Wind Orchestra Vaughan Williams: Flourish for Glorious John Holst: Suite No. 2 Gavin Higgins: Der Aufstand (BBC commission - world premiere) Martin Ellerby: Paris Sketches Walton: Crown Imperial National Youth Wind Orchestra of Great Britain James Gourlay (conductor) National Youth Brass Band of Great Britain Bramwell Tovey (conductor).
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12-Aug-2012
BBC Proms - 2012 Season: Prom 39 - Berlioz's Requiem
Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Sara Mohr-Pietsch Thierry Fischer's conducts his final concert as Principal Conductor of the BBC National Orchestra of Wales and scales the heights of Berlioz's monumental Requiem with massive choral and orchestral forces in the vast acoustic of the Royal Albert Hall. When Berlioz wrote his massive Requiem or "Grande mess des morts" in 1837, it took him just 3 months to write. Composing for truly overwhelming forces and first performed in the imposing church of Les Invalides in Paris, it was the dramatic possibilities of the text that excited the composer, who even reordered some of the text so as to maximize the impact. Ever the Romantic, Berlioz brings his ideals of freedom and expressive truth to his setting, alongside the deafening forces including four brass bands. The music of Berlioz has been the focus of Thierry's six years at the helm of the orchestra. It's not just that he likes the composer, but he feels as an artist a real need to perform his music on a regular basis. Over the years they've performed the Symphonie fantastique at the Proms as well as the revolutionary Symphonie funebre et triomphale. Here at the Proms, Thierry Fischer strives to respect Berlioz's wishes in staging the work. Instead of placing the brass bands at far flung corners of the Royal Albert Hall, the force of fifty players sit around the main body of the orchestra, on stage instead of offstage, focussing the dramatic sound. Berlioz: Requiem (Grande messe des morts) Toby Spence (tenor) BBC National Chorus of Wales Huddersfield Choral Society London Symphony Chorus BBC National Orchestra of Wales Thierry Fischer (conductor) This Prom will be repeated on Wednesday 15 August at 2.00pm.
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12-Aug-2012
BBC Proms - 2012 Season: Proms Saturday Matinees: 3. PSM 03 - Finnissy, Ferneyhough, Birtwistle, Elias
Live from Cadogan Hall, London Presented by Christopher Cook The Britten Sinfonia is joined by Susan Bickley, Nicolas Hodges Nicholas Daniels for a programme of contemporary British music by Finnissy, Ferneyhough, Birtwistle and Elias. Michael Finnissy's Piano Concerto No. 2 begins in the lower depths and explodes into transcendentally demanding piano writing before the other players enter. Harrison Birtwistle's Gigue Machine for solo piano, which Nicolas Hodges unveiled in Stuttgart earlier this year, also receives its first UK outing and Brian Elias's meticulously crafted Sophoclean scena, set in the original ancient Greek, gets its world premiere. Its cor anglais soloist, closely identified with the Britten Sinfonia as oboist and conductor, is a recent recipient of The Queen's Medal for Music. Michael Finnissy: Piano Concerto No. 2 (UK premiere) Brian Ferneyhough: Prometheus Harrison Birtwistle: Gigue Machine (UK premiere) Brian Elias: Electra Mourns (World premiere) Susan Bickley (mezzo-soprano) Nicholas Daniels (cor anglais) Nicolas Hodges (piano) Britten Sinfonia Clark Rundell (conductor).
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11-Aug-2012
BBC Proms - 2012 Season: Prom 38 - National Youth Jazz Orchestra
Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Petroc Trelawny The youthful members of the National Youth Jazz Orchestra conducted by Mark Armstrong perform a wide-ranging set, from Jazz classics through to a new work by Tim Garland. Founded in the mid-1960s the NYJO is world-famous as a glittering showcase for the country's best young jazz musicians with many of the current generation of top British jazz players having risen through its ranks. Known for their unique swinging big band sound they have always played a mix of classics and new works. In tonight's late-night Prom they perform compositions by Ellington and Monk through to contemporary pieces including the premiere of a new work by Tim Garland called 'Agro Alegria' described by its composer as 'almost a ballad' based on a dance rhythm from the flamenco tradition, with the word 'Agro' having the double meaning of planting and growing, but also a reference to the youthful rowdiness of the NYJO members. Ellington: Rockin' in Rhythm Nikki Iles: Hush Kenny Wheeler: Sweet Time Suite - Know Where You Are Monk (arr. Mark Armstrong) : 'Round Midnight Richardson: Groove Merchant Chris Whiter: The Change Arr. T. Stone: Return Flight Allington arr. Callu Au: Caravan Ellington: The Queen's Suite - Sunset and the Mocking Bird Tim Garland: Agro Alegria Tim Garland (saxophone) Mark Mondesir (drums) National Youth Jazz Orchestra Mark Armstrong (conductor).
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11-Aug-2012
BBC Proms - 2012 Season: Prom 37: Elgar: The Apostles - Part 2
Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Martin Handley Mark Elder conducts the Hallé and a distinguished cast of singers in one of the English choral tradition's major works: Elgar's dramatic and Biblical oratorio The Apostles. Elgar explores the inner feelings of Judas Iscariot with dramatic intensity, and Christ's anguished cry from the cross becomes a wordless lament. Elgar conceived the idea for The Apostles as a schoolboy, but the project came to fruition only in 1903 - after both The Dream of Gerontius and a visit to Bayreuth to hear Wagner's The Ring and Parsifal. Elgar: The Apostles (part II) Rebecca Evans (Soprano - The Angel Gabriel / The Blessed Virgin Mary) Alice Coote (Mezzo-Soprano - Mary Magdalene / Narrator 2) Paul Groves (Tenor - St John / Narrator 1) Jacques Imbrailo (Baritone - Jesus) Clive Bayley (Bass - Judas) David Kempster (Baritone - St Peter) Musicians from the Royal Northern College of Music and the University of Manchester (Chorus of Apostles) Hallé Choir Hallé Youth Choir London Philharmonic Choir Hallé Mark Elder (Conductor) This Prom will be repeated on Thursday 23rd August at 2pm.
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11-Aug-2012
BBC Proms - 2012 Season: Prom 37: Elgar: The Apostles - Part 1
Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Martin Handley Mark Elder conducts the Hallé and a distinguished cast of singers in one of the English choral tradition's major works: Elgar's dramatic and Biblical oratorio The Apostles. Elgar explores the inner feelings of Judas Iscariot with dramatic intensity, and Christ's anguished cry from the cross becomes a wordless lament. Elgar conceived the idea for The Apostles as a schoolboy, but the project came to fruition only in 1903 - after both The Dream of Gerontius and a visit to Bayreuth to hear Wagner's The Ring and Parsifal. Elgar: The Apostles (part I) Rebecca Evans (Soprano - The Angel Gabriel / The Blessed Virgin Mary) Alice Coote (Mezzo-Soprano - Mary Magdalene / Narrator 2) Paul Groves (Tenor - St John / Narrator 1) Jacques Imbrailo (Baritone - Jesus) Clive Bayley (Bass - Judas) David Kempster (Baritone - St Peter) Musicians from the Royal Northern College of Music and the University of Manchester (Chorus of Apostles) Hallé Choir Hallé Youth Choir London Philharmonic Choir Hallé Mark Elder (Conductor) This Prom will be repeated on Thursday 23rd August at 2pm.
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10-Aug-2012
BBC Proms - 2012 Season: Prom 36 - Ivor Novello
Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Katie Derham The Hallé Orchestra and conductor Mark Elder 'keep the home fires burning' in this Late Night Prom celebrating the work of Ivor Novello: actor, playwright, composer and raconteur. With singers Sophie Bevan and Toby Spence, and actor Simon Callow. Novello was the most consistently successful composer of British musicals before Andrew Lloyd Webber, but is now somewhat neglected. The Hallé is joined by soprano Sophie Bevan and tenor Toby Spence to sing through the Novello songbook, and they're helped along the way by Simon Callow as master of ceremonies. Ivor Novello: Till The Boys Come Home (Keep the Home Fires Burning) Glamorous Night: Overture Glamorous Night: Fold Your Wings Crest of the Wave: Why Isn't It You? The Dancing Years: I Can Give You the Starlight The Dancing Years: My Life Belongs To You Muranian Rhapsody The Dancing Years: My Dearest Dear King's Rhapsody: Someday My Heart Will Awake King's Rhapsody: The Violin Began to Play Glamorous Night: Shine Through My Dreams Pray for Me Careless Rapture: Love Made the Song 'We'll gather Lilacs' Sophie Bevan (soprano) Toby Spence (tenor) Simon Callow (actor) Hallé Mark Elder (conductor) This Prom will be repeated on Wednesday 22nd August at 2pm.
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10-Aug-2012
BBC Proms - 2012 Season: Proms Composer Portraits: Per Norgard
Ivan Hewett talks to Andrew McGregor about the music of Per Norgard and introduces performances of his chamber works Dancers Around Jupiter and String Quartet No 6, played by musicians from the RNCM.
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10-Aug-2012
BBC Proms - 2012 Season: Prom 35: 2. Norgard, Sibelius
Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Sara Mohr-Pietsch The BBC Philharmonic is joined by John Storgårds for his first Prom as Principal Guest Conductor in a celebration of Nordic composers with just a dash of British. Two symphonies by Sibelius frame the concert. Grieg's only complete Piano Concerto is played by Steven Osborne, and two composer anniversaries are celebrated with music by Per Nørgård and Frederick Delius. As Per Nørgård's celebrates his 80th birthday the Proms presents his exciting and unpredictable 7th symphony, composed for the opening of Copenhagen's new concert hall. Storgårds also champions music by British composers, turning the spotlight tonight on Delius in his 150th anniversary year. His evocative setting of words by Ernest Dowson is brought to life by baritone Roderick Williams. Per Nørgård: Symphony No. 7 (UK Premiere) Sibelius: Symphony No. 3 Roderick Williams (baritone) Steven Osborne (piano) BBC Philharmonic John Storgårds (conductor) This Prom will be repeated on Tuesday 21st August at 2pm.
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10-Aug-2012
BBC Proms - 2012 Season: Prom 35: 1. Sibelius, Delius, Grieg
Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Sara Mohr-Pietsch The BBC Philharmonic is joined by John Storgårds for his first Prom as Principal Guest Conductor in a celebration of Nordic composers with just a dash of British. Two symphonies by Sibelius frame the concert. Grieg's only complete Piano Concerto is played by Steven Osborne, and two composer anniversaries are celebrated with music by Per Nørgård and Frederick Delius. As Per Nørgård's celebrates his 80th birthday the Proms presents his exciting and unpredictable 7th symphony, composed for the opening of Copenhagen's new concert hall. Storgårds also champions music by British composers, turning the spotlight tonight on Delius in his 150th anniversary year. His evocative setting of words by Ernest Dowson is brought to life by baritone Roderick Williams. Sibelius: Symphony No. 6 Delius: Cynara Grieg: Piano Concerto Roderick Williams (baritone) Steven Osborne (piano) BBC Philharmonic John Storgårds (conductor) This Prom will be repeated on Tuesday 21st August at 2pm.
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09-Aug-2012
BBC Proms - 2012 Season: Prom 34: 2. Strauss
Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Penny Gore Schubert's Unfinished 8th Symphony and Strauss's thrilling Ein Heldenleben frame the witty Piano Concerto by Richard Dubugnon. The Labeque sisters are the soloists and Semyon Bychkov conducts the BBC Symphony Orchestra. Making a welcome return to the Proms following their three appearances in 2009, Katia and Marielle Labeque perform a dramatic piece designed to bring out their contrasting personalities. The Battlefield Concerto was specially written for them by French-Swiss composer and double bassist Richard Dubugnon - who was inspired by the painting The Battle of San Romano by the Florentine artist Paolo Uccello (1397-1475). Semyon Bychkov also conducts the BBC Symphony Orchestra in two great classics - the most famous of all unfinished symphonies, and the glorious autobiography (with battle scene) of a composer who lived long in difficult times - A Hero's Life. Strauss: Ein Heldenleben Katia and Marielle Labeque (pianos) BBC Symphony Orchestra Semyon Bychkov (conductor) This Prom will be repeated on Monday 20th August at 2pm.
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09-Aug-2012
BBC Proms - 2012 Season: Proms Plus Literary Passions: 4. Edward Gardner
The Music Director of the ENO Edward Gardner, who will be conducting a concert performance of Peter Grimes in this year's Proms season, reveals his literary passions and talks about what he'll be reading this summer. Rana Mitter presents. Producer Zahid Warley.
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09-Aug-2012
BBC Proms - 2012 Season: Prom 34: 1. Schubert, Richard Dubugnon
Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Penny Gore Schubert's Unfinished 8th Symphony and Strauss's thrilling Ein Heldenleben frame the witty Piano Concerto by Richard Dubugnon. The Labeque sisters are the soloists and Semyon Bychkov conducts the BBC Symphony Orchestra. Making a welcome return to the Proms following their three appearances in 2009, Katia and Marielle Labeque perform a dramatic piece designed to bring out their contrasting personalities. The Battlefield Concerto was specially written for them by French-Swiss composer and double bassist Richard Dubugnon - who was inspired by the painting The Battle of San Romano by the Florentine artist Paolo Uccello (1397-1475). Semyon Bychkov also conducts the BBC Symphony Orchestra in two great classics - the most famous of all unfinished symphonies, and the glorious autobiography (with battle scene) of a composer who lived long in difficult times - A Hero's Life. Schubert: Symphony No. 8 in B minor, 'Unfinished' Richard Dubugnon: Battlefield Concerto (UK Premiere) Katia and Marielle Labeque (pianos) BBC Symphony Orchestra Semyon Bychkov (conductor) This Prom will be repeated on Monday 20th August at 2pm.
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08-Aug-2012
BBC Proms - 2012 Season: Proms Plus Late: 07/08/2012
Informal post-Prom music and poetry from emerging young artists.
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08-Aug-2012
BBC Proms - 2012 Season: Prom 33: 2. Bruckner
Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Petroc Trelawny A dramatic world premiere by James Macmillan is set alongside tragically romantic music by Wagner and one of Bruckner's most expansive symphonies. A world premiere at the Proms is always exciting and this is no exception. Hot on the heels of his "Gloria", composed for the 50th anniversary of the re-consecration of Coventry Cathedral, is James MacMillan's dramatic and full-blooded "Credo", performed by the BBC Philharmonic, their chief conductor Juanjo Mena and the combined Manchester Chamber Choir, Northern Sinfonia Chorus and Rushley Singers. Bruckner's Sixth Symphony was one of his favourites - bold and expansive and entirely befitting of the space of the Royal Albert Hall. The concert opens with the Prelude to Wagner's landmark tale of tragic love - Tristan und Isolde - performed here with Wagner's rarely heard concert ending. Bruckner: Symphony No.6 Manchester Chamber Choir Northern Sinfonia Chorus Rushley Singers BBC Philharmonic Juanjo Mena (conductor) This Prom will be repeated on Sunday 19th August at 2pm.
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08-Aug-2012
BBC Proms - 2012 Season: Proms Plus: Religion in Music
Composer James MacMillan and Andrew Carwood, Director of Music at St Paul's Cathedral, consider the relationship between religion and music, with presenter Louise Fryer.
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08-Aug-2012
BBC Proms - 2012 Season: Prom 33: 1. Wagner, MacMillan
Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Petroc Trelawny A dramatic world premiere by James Macmillan is set alongside tragically romantic music by Wagner and one of Bruckner's most expansive symphonies. A world premiere at the Proms is always exciting and this is no exception. Hot on the heels of his "Gloria", composed for the 50th anniversary of the re-consecration of Coventry Cathedral, is James MacMillan's dramatic and full-blooded "Credo", performed by the BBC Philharmonic, their chief conductor Juanjo Mena and the combined Manchester Chamber Choir, Northern Sinfonia Chorus and Rushley Singers. Bruckner's Sixth Symphony was one of his favourites - bold and expansive and entirely befitting of the space of the Royal Albert Hall. The concert opens with the Prelude to Wagner's landmark tale of tragic love - Tristan und Isolde - performed here with Wagner's rarely heard concert ending. Wagner: Prelude from Tristan and Isolde James MacMillan: Credo (BBC, Ensemble Orchestral de Paris, Grafenegg Festival and De Doelen, Rotterdam co-commission: world premiere) Manchester Chamber Choir Northern Sinfonia Chorus Rushley Singers BBC Philharmonic Juanjo Mena (conductor) This Prom will be repeated on Sunday 19th August at 2pm.
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07-Aug-2012
BBC Proms - 2012 Season: Proms Plus: The Handmaid's Tale
Veteran war reporter Kate Adie and novelist Aminatta Forna discuss Margaret Atwood's groundbreaking feminist novel, 'The Handmaid's Tale', twenty five years after its publication, in which a religious revolution has overthrown the American government. Anne McElvoy presents. Producer Laura Thomas.
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07-Aug-2012
BBC Proms - 2012 Season: Prom 32 - Bernstein Mass
Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Katie Derham Bernstein devised his Mass not as a religious setting, but as 'a theatre piece for singers, players and dancers. It has courted controversy ever since it was first performed at the opening of the John F. Kennedy Center in Washington in 1971. There will be over 250 young people from across Wales and beyond joining members of the BBC National Orchestra and Chorus of Wales to perform it with charismatic conductor Kristjan Jarvi. The young performers come from the National Youth Orchestra and National Youth Choir of Wales, the Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama, 120 young choristers from primary schools across South Wales, and the award -winning choir Aelwyd y Waun Ddyfal - as well as a rock band and over 100 kazoos. Bernstein fuses a kaleidoscopic mix of musical, political and theological colours in a work which takes us through the movements of the mass, as the presiding celebrant gradually loses control of first his congregation and then his own mind. Elements of jazz, rock, Latin and blues rub shoulders with counterpoint, avant garde and the best of Bernstein's Broadway melodies. The 1970s world was deeply disturbed by the realities of the Cold War and Vietnam, confused sexualities and blurred moral boundaries. All the frustrations and all the anger are penned up in this explosive mix, bound by Bernstein's eclectic score and period lyrics from the composer and Stephen Schwartz, plus a rhyming couplet by Paul Simon. At the height of the cacophony, the celebrant smashes the chalice, seemingly destroying any hope that his god actually exists. But from the following silence, a soft hymn emerges, singing God a secret yet a simple song. As the final prayer dies, a warm and reassuring voice from the quadraphonic tape which interlaces the score declares 'The Mass is ended: go in peace'. Bernstein was born into the Jewish faith, but he was fascinated by the ritual of the Catholic Mass. In this work he said, he wanted to "communicate as directly and universally as I can a reaffirmation of faith". Despite his wishes - and the success of the premiere, critics slammed the "superficiality and pretentiousness" whilst Catholic clergy considered the work blasphemous. But when one such archbishop in Cincinnati spoke out against any Catholic to even see a production in 1972, he suffered a fatal stroke which in turn ensured the run was a sell-out success. Despite it's religious criticisms, the Vatican finally hosted a production in 2000 to commemorate the World Jubilee for Migrants. Increasingly this work, in which Bernstein wears his heart deeply engrained on his sleeve, is becoming a modern classic. Bernstein: Mass Morten Frank Larsen (bass-baritone) Julius Foo (treble) Ysgol Gynradd Gymraeg Pwll Coch, Caerdydd Ysgol Gynradd Gymunedol Gymraeg, Llantrisant Ysgol Gynradd Dolau, Llanharan Ysgol Gynradd Gymraeg, Rhydaman National Youth Choir of Wales Aelwyd y Waun Ddyfal Musicians from the Royal Welsh College of Music & Drama BBC National Chorus of Wales BBC National Orchestra of Wales National Youth Orchestra of Wales Kristjan Järvi (conductor) Thomas Kiemleb (stage director) This Prom will be repeated on Friday 17th August at 2pm.
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07-Aug-2012
BBC Proms - 2012 Season: Proms Chamber Music: PCM 04: 4. Pike, Altstaedt, Levit
From Cadogan Hall, London Presented by Clemency Burton-Hill Three leading soloists join forces to celebrate the 150th anniversary of the birth of Debussy. French composer Claude Debussy was one of the most forward-looking of early 20th century composers so his return to Classical form in these late Sonatas is one last party-trick from a composer who constantly rebelled and surprised. Ravel's Piano Trio was written in 1914 just as the First World War broke out. Finishing it at break-neck speed so he could enlist, he said he composed it 'with the sureness and lucidity of a madman'. The result is an elegant and virtuosic masterpiece that seems tinged with nostalgia. The performers are three leading young soloists, all of whom are, or have been, BBC New Generation Artists. Debussy: Sonata for violin and piano Debussy: Sonata for cello and piano Ravel: Piano Trio Jennifer Pike (violin) Nicolas Altstaedt (cello) Igor Levit (piano).
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06-Aug-2012
BBC Proms - 2012 Season: Prom 31: 2. Strauss, Musgrave, Respighi
Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Andrew McGregor Continuing the focus on the UK's musical youth, the BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra and their chief conductor Donald Runnicles are joined by the young players of the National Youth Orchestra of Scotland and former NYOS Leader Nicola Benedetti in a sparkling programme orchestral showpieces. A celebration of Scottish musical talent, tonight's concert includes music by two of Scotland's finest composers, including the London premiere of James MacMillan's Fanfare Upon One Note and the world premiere of Thea Musgrave's Loch Ness: a Postcard from Scotland. Alongside these works, the two groups join forces in music of drama and romanticism, emblematic of Donald Runnicles' musical personality, in Wagner's Overture to Die Meistersinger, Strauss's Don Juan and Respighi's grandly colourful tone-poem, Pines of Rome. Nicola Benedetti joins them for Bruch's romantically lyrical Scottish Fantasy. R. Strauss: Don Juan Thea Musgrave: Loch Ness - a Postcard from Scotland (BBC commission; world premiere) Respighi: Pines of Rome Nicola Benedetti (violin) National Youth Orchestra of Scotland BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra Donald Runnicles This Prom will be repeated on Thursday 16th August at 2pm.
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06-Aug-2012
BBC Proms - 2012 Season: Proms Live Interval: Part 4
The fourth of eight Sunday evening live Proms intervals from the Radio 3 box, including another instalment of a regular mini-series, Lucy Worsley's Kensington, which takes a characteristically quirky look at things of interest within a stone's throw of the Royal Albert Hall, plus other features and discussions looking ahead to this week's concerts.
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06-Aug-2012
BBC Proms - 2012 Season: Prom 31: 1. MacMillan, Wagner, Bruch
Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Andrew McGregor Continuing the focus on the UK's musical youth, the BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra and their chief conductor Donald Runnicles are joined by the young players of the National Youth Orchestra of Scotland and former NYOS Leader Nicola Benedetti in a sparkling programme orchestral showpieces. A celebration of Scottish musical talent, tonight's concert includes music by two of Scotland's finest composers, including the London premiere of James MacMillan's Fanfare Upon One Note and the world premiere of Thea Musgrave's Loch Ness: a Postcard from Scotland. Alongside these works, the two groups join forces in music of drama and romanticism, emblematic of Donald Runnicles' musical personality, in Wagner's Overture to Die Meistersinger, Strauss's Don Juan and Respighi's grandly colourful tone-poem, Pines of Rome. Nicola Benedetti joins them for Bruch's romantically lyrical Scottish Fantasy. James MacMillan: Fanfare Upon One Note (London premiere) Wagner: The Mastersingers of Nuremberg - Overture Bruch: Scottish Fantasy Nicola Benedetti (violin) National Youth Orchestra of Scotland BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra Donald Runnicles This Prom will be repeated on Thursday 16th August at 2pm.
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06-Aug-2012
BBC Proms - 2012 Season: Proms Plus: 05/08/2012
Matthew Rowe explores the music in tonight's Prom with live musical examples from members of the BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra. Including an introduction to the two premieres in tonight's programme.
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06-Aug-2012
BBC Proms - 2012 Season: Prom 30 - Chilcott, Parry
Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Catherine Bott The Angry Planet, Bob Chilcott's new environmental cantata for unaccompanied choirs, sets specially-written words by Charles Bennett exploring humanity's complex and often destructive relationship with the natural world, and the music brings together singers young and old, children and adults, professionals and amateurs - over 600 voices raised in song together with a signing choir for hearing impaired children. Ben Parry's Flame then takes the image of the Olympic torch as a beacon of light, life and understanding in the world. Bob Chilcott: The Angry Planet (world premiere) Ben Parry: Flame Laurie Ashworth (soprano) Children's Choirs from London Boroughs Signing Choir from Great Baddow High School National Youth Choir of Great Britain The Bach Choir BBC Singers David Hill (conductor).
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05-Aug-2012
BBC Proms - 2012 Season: Proms Plus Late: 04/08/2012
Informal post-Prom music and poetry from emerging young artists. With poetry from Kei Miller, and music from the Matt Robinson Quartet.
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05-Aug-2012
BBC Proms - 2012 Season: Prom 29: 2. Messiaen, Anna Meredith
Live from the Royal Albert Hall Presented by Petroc Trelawny One of the highlights of this year's celebration of youth at the BBC Proms is this evening's appearance by the talented National Youth Orchestra of Great Britain as they scale the heights in Messiaen's Turangalîla Symphony, an ecstatic song of love. The huge orchestral forces and soaring solos for the ondes martenot in Messiaen's Tristan-inspired symphony will surely fill the Royal Albert Hall with glorious sounds. Messiaen's twentieth century classic is framed by a BBC commission from one of America's rising talents and Anna Meredith's acclaimed tour de force of clapping, stamping, singing and body percussion, first performed earlier this year by NYO members and commissioned for the PRS for Music Foundation's New Music 20x12 programme as part of the Cultural Olympiad. Messiaen: Turangalîla Symphony Anna Meredith: HandsFree Cynthia Millar (ondes martenot) Joanna MacGregor (piano) National Youth Orchestra of Great Britain Vasily Petrenko (conductor) This Prom will be repeated on Tuesday 14th August at 2pm.
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05-Aug-2012
BBC Proms - 2012 Season: Prom 29: 1. Varese, Muhly
Live from the Royal Albert Hall Presented by Petroc Trelawny One of the highlights of this year's celebration of youth at the BBC Proms is this evening's appearance by the talented National Youth Orchestra of Great Britain as they scale the heights in Messiaen's Turangalîla Symphony, an ecstatic song of love. The huge orchestral forces and soaring solos for the ondes martenot in Messiaen's Tristan-inspired symphony will surely fill the Royal Albert Hall with glorious sounds. Messiaen's twentieth century classic is framed by a BBC commission from one of America's rising talents and Anna Meredith's acclaimed tour de force of clapping, stamping, singing and body percussion, first performed earlier this year by NYO members and commissioned for the PRS for Music Foundation's New Music 20x12 programme as part of the Cultural Olympiad. Varèse: Tuning Up Nico Muhly: Gait - BBC Commission, London Premiere Cynthia Millar (ondes martenot) Joanna MacGregor (piano) National Youth Orchestra of Great Britain Vasily Petrenko (conductor) This Prom will be repeated on Tuesday 14th August at 2pm.
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05-Aug-2012
BBC Proms - 2012 Season: Prom 28: 2. Stravinsky
Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Louise Fryer Launching a weekend featuring performances by young performers, the Ulster Youth Orchestra joins the Ulster Orchestra in a concert brimming with orchestral colour. The Ulster Orchestra's Principal Conductor, JoAnn Falletta, makes her Proms, debut while virtuoso flautist, Sir James Galway, makes a welcome return to the Proms. The members of the Ulster Youth Orchestra showcase their talent in a piece sparkling with Spanish dance rhythms and folk-like tunes - Chabrier's España is a musical postcard marking the composer's visit to Spain in 1882. Sir James Galway joins the Ulster Orchestra to perform Mozarts's Flute Concerto No. 2 in D major, K314, a work which began life as an oboe concerto and was adapted for flute by the composer in Mannheim in 1798. Dark Hedges for double orchestra and solo flute is a BBC commission for the BBC Proms by Elaine Agnew. The work is inspired by an avenue of over-arching beech trees planted near Armoy in 1750, close to the composer's home in Co. Antrim. The concert ends with music from Stravinsky's ballet, The Firebird. It tells the story of a prince who, with the help of a mysterious firebird, breaks a spell cast by the evil magician, King Kashei. The 1911 suite from the ballet is lavishly orchestrated and takes full advantage of the large orchestral forces provided by the combined forces of the youth and professional orchestras playing side by side on the stage of the Royal Albert Hall. Stravinsky: The Firebird - suite (1911) James Galway (flute) Ulster Youth Orchestra Ulster Orchestra JoAnn Falletta (conductor) This Prom will be repeated on Wednesday 8th August at 2pm.
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05-Aug-2012
BBC Proms - 2012 Season: Prom 28: 1. Chabrier, Mozart, Elaine Agnew
Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Louise Fryer Launching a weekend featuring performances by young performers, the Ulster Youth Orchestra joins the Ulster Orchestra in a concert brimming with orchestral colour. The Ulster Orchestra's Principal Conductor, JoAnn Falletta, makes her Proms, debut while virtuoso flautist, Sir James Galway, makes a welcome return to the Proms. The members of the Ulster Youth Orchestra showcase their talent in a piece sparkling with Spanish dance rhythms and folk-like tunes - Chabrier's España is a musical postcard marking the composer's visit to Spain in 1882. Sir James Galway joins the Ulster Orchestra to perform Mozarts's Flute Concerto No. 2 in D major, K314, a work which began life as an oboe concerto and was adapted for flute by the composer in Mannheim in 1798. Dark Hedges for double orchestra and solo flute is a BBC commission for the BBC Proms by Elaine Agnew. The work is inspired by an avenue of over-arching beech trees planted near Armoy in 1750, close to the composer's home in Co. Antrim. The concert ends with music from Stravinsky's ballet, The Firebird. It tells the story of a prince who, with the help of a mysterious firebird, breaks a spell cast by the evil magician, King Kashei. The 1911 suite from the ballet is lavishly orchestrated and takes full advantage of the large orchestral forces provided by the combined forces of the youth and professional orchestras playing side by side on the stage of the Royal Albert Hall. Chabrier: España Mozart: Flute Concerto No. 2 in D major, K314 Elaine Agnew: Dark Hedges (BBC commission, world premiere) James Galway (flute) Ulster Youth Orchestra Ulster Orchestra JoAnn Falletta (conductor) This Prom will be repeated on Wednesday 8th August at 2pm.
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04-Aug-2012
BBC Proms - 2012 Season: Prom 27: 2. Bruckner
Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Martin Handley Renowned for conducting Wagner and Bruckner, Chief Conductor Donald Runnicles plays the first of this season's BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra Proms in repertoire close to his heart. Wagner's intimate and private Idyll was written in 1870 to celebrate his second wife's birthday just after the birth of their son Siegfried. It is played here with the original 13 instruments but building to a larger string section. In contrast Bruckner wrote his 8th symphony to epic proportions. He is arguably the greatest Symphonist since Beethoven, and Bruckner's 8th is perhaps the most challenging and glorious of all his symphonies. The Nowak 1955 (1890) edition is played here. Bruckner: Symphony No. 8 in C minor (ed. Nowak, 1955) BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra Donald Runnicles (conductor) This Prom will be repeated on Monday 13th August at 2pm.
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04-Aug-2012
BBC Proms - 2012 Season: Proms Plus Literary Passions: 3. Sunset Song
Poet Jackie Kay and novelist Ali Smith discuss one of the great Scottish classic novels, 'Sunset Song', by Lewis Grassic Gibbon, set in a Scottish farming community and the first part of his Scots Quair trilogy.
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04-Aug-2012
BBC Proms - 2012 Season: Prom 27: 1. Wagner
Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Martin Handley Renowned for conducting Wagner and Bruckner, Chief Conductor Donald Runnicles plays the first of this season's BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra Proms in repertoire close to his heart. Wagner's intimate and private Idyll was written in 1870 to celebrate his second wife's birthday just after the birth of their son Siegfried. It is played here with the original 13 instruments but building to a larger string section. In contrast Bruckner wrote his 8th symphony to epic proportions. He is arguably the greatest Symphonist since Beethoven, and Bruckner's 8th is perhaps the most challenging and glorious of all his symphonies. The Nowak 1955 (1890) edition is played here. Wagner: Siegfried Idyll BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra Donald Runnicles (conductor) This Prom will be repeated on Monday 13th August at 2pm.
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03-Aug-2012
BBC Proms - 2012 Season: Prom 26: Bach: B Minor Mass - Part 2
Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Donald Macleod Nobody knows why it was written - it's one of the great mysteries of Bach's life. Why did he spend so much of his last two years reworking religious music he'd already written into an enormous setting of the Catholic Mass, in Latin? It's tempting to see the B minor Mass as a drawing-together-of-threads, the great composer's last religious will and testament, a monumental summation of his decades of work for the church... albeit usually for the Protestant Church, in German. Since the nineteenth century the Mass has become one of Bach's best-loved works - though it's almost always performed, as here, in concert halls rather than churches. But the English Concert, conductor Harry Bicket and their starry lineup of soloists are sure to bring new insights: their performance comes fresh from Leipzig, where they closed the 2012 Bachfest with the B minor Mass - in Bach's own church, the Thomaskirche. J S Bach: Mass in B minor (conclusion) This Prom will be repeated on Friday 10th August at 2pm.
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03-Aug-2012
BBC Proms - 2012 Season: Prom 26: Bach: B Minor Mass - Part 1
Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Donald Macleod Nobody knows why it was written - it's one of the great mysteries of Bach's life. Why did he spend so much of his last two years reworking religious music he'd already written into an enormous setting of the Catholic Mass, in Latin? It's tempting to see the B minor Mass as a drawing-together-of-threads, the great composer's last religious will and testament, a monumental summation of his decades of work for the church... albeit usually for the Protestant Church, in German. Since the nineteenth century the Mass has become one of Bach's best-loved works - though it's almost always performed, as here, in concert halls rather than churches. But the English Concert, conductor Harry Bicket and their starry lineup of soloists are sure to bring new insights: their performance comes fresh from Leipzig, where they closed the 2012 Bachfest with the B minor Mass - in Bach's own church, the Thomaskirche. J S Bach: Mass in B minor Joélle Harvey (soprano) Carolyn Sampson (soprano) Iestyn Davies (countertenor) Ed Lyon (tenor) Matthew Rose (bass) Choir of the English Concert The English Concert Harry Bicket conductor This Prom will be repeated on Friday 10th August at 2pm.
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02-Aug-2012
BBC Proms - 2012 Season: Prom 25: 2. Tippett
Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Catherine Bott The BBC SO perform Ives, Barber and Zimmerman's jazz-influenced trumpet concerto with Hakan Hardenberger. And the BBC Proms Youth Choir debuts in Tippett's great oratorio A Child of Our Time. David Robertson conducts. Principal Guest Conductor, David Robertson, conducts two iconic American pieces before turning to works in which the emotive force of the African American spiritual is harnessed by composers of the old world. In Child of our time, Tippett drew on five spirituals to reaffirm the indispensable human values of compassion and brotherhood. Star trumpeter Hakan Hardenberger returns and an impressive array of international singing talent features alongside tonight's newly formed youthful chorus. Tippett: A Child of Our Time Håkan Hardenberger (trumpet) Sally Matthews (soprano) Sarah Connolly (mezzo-soprano) Paul Groves (tenor) Jubilant Sykes (bass-baritone) BBC Proms Youth Choir BBC Symphony Orchestra David Robertson (conductor) This Prom will be repeated on Thursday 9th August at 2pm.
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02-Aug-2012
BBC Proms - 2012 Season: Prom 25: 1. Ives, Barber, Zimmermann
Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Catherine Bott The BBC SO perform Ives, Barber and Zimmerman's jazz-influenced trumpet concerto with Hakan Hardenberger. And the BBC Proms Youth Choir debuts in Tippett's great oratorio A Child of Our Time. David Robertson conducts. Principal Guest Conductor, David Robertson, conducts two iconic American pieces before turning to works in which the emotive force of the African American spiritual is harnessed by composers of the old world. In Child of our time, Tippett drew on five spirituals to reaffirm the indispensable human values of compassion and brotherhood. Star trumpeter Hakan Hardenberger returns and an impressive array of international singing talent features alongside tonight's newly formed youthful chorus. Ives: The Unanswered Question Barber: Adagio for strings Zimmermann: Nobody knows de trouble I see Håkan Hardenberger (trumpet) Sally Matthews (soprano) Sarah Connolly (mezzo-soprano) Paul Groves (tenor) Jubilant Sykes (bass-baritone) BBC Proms Youth Choir BBC Symphony Orchestra David Robertson (conductor) This Prom will be repeated on Thursday 9th August at 2pm.
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01-Aug-2012
BBC Proms - 2012 Season: Prom 24: World Routes Academy
Live from the Royal Albert Hall Presented by Lucy Duran A Late Night Prom devoted to the vallenato music of Colombia, and featuring the protégé and the mentor of the 2012 World Routes Academy. London-born 20-year-old accordionist and singer José Hernando Arias Noguera performs with one of Colombia's top artists, accordion virtuoso Egidio Cuadrado, with new songs as well as vallenato standards including 'La Gota Fria', 'El Cantor de Fonseca', 'La Vieja Sara' and 'Matilde Lina'. They are joined by singer Carlos Maria Zabaleta, guitarists Edgardo Ramos and Jesus Enrique Saurith, percussionists Eder Polo, Alfredo Rosado and Rony Theran, with Mayte Montero playing gaita flute and Luis Ángel Pastor on double bass. Introduced by Lucy Duran. This is the third year of the World Routes Academy scheme, which brings together young UK-based performers of traditional roots music with top artists from the tradition to which they belong. José Hernando Arias Noguera was born and raised in West London - his parents emigrated to the UK from Colombia, but are not musicians themselves - José is largely self-taught, learning from recordings of great vallenato artists. In the World Routes Academy scheme he was able to make two trips to Colombia, involving intense mentoring sessions with Egidio Cuadrado, and also taking part in the celebrated Valledupar vallenato festival. He is aware that the vallenato tradition requires all-round musicianship: "The aim is to be a complete troubadour - to sing, to compose and to play the accordion at the same time. My dream is to make this music as well-known as salsa and to write lyrics in English for it.".
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01-Aug-2012
BBC Proms - 2012 Season: Prom 23: 2. Delius, Walton
Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Katie Derham A vibrantly colourful all-English Prom with the BBC National Orchestra and Chorus of Wales and conductor Laureate Tadaaki Otaka - a notable advocate of British music. The programme opens with Vaughan Williams's Tallis Fantasia, which uses the hidden spaces of the Royal Albert Hall acoustic to full effect. The first of two oratorios marks the 50th anniversary of the death of John Ireland, organist, choirmaster and Professor of Composition at the Royal College of Music. These Things Shall Be was commissioned by the BBC for the coronation of King George VI in 1937, setting a utopian text. The bass-baritone soloist is former Radio 3 new Generation Artist Jonathan Lemalu, who also takes the commanding role in Walton's dramatic retelling of the Biblical story, Belshazzar's Feast. With full orchestra and chorus augmented by two brass bands, it promises to raise the roof. Delius is another Proms anniversary for 2012, celebrated here with the Walk to the Paradise Garden from his opera A Village Romeo and Juliet. Tadaaki Otaka enjoys a long and prosperous relationship with the BBC National Orchestra of Wales, first as Principal Conductor (1987-95) and since as Laureate. In 2000 he was awarded the Elgar Medal for his services to British music. Delius: The Walk to the Paradise Garden Walton: Belshazzar's Feast Jonathan Lemalu (bass-baritone) London Brass BBC Symphony Chorus BBC National Chorus of Wales BBC National Orchestra of Wales Tadaaki Otaka (conductor) This Prom will be repeated on Tuesday 7th August at 2pm.
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01-Aug-2012
BBC Proms - 2012 Season: Prom 23: 1. Vaughan Williams, Ireland
Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Katie Derham A vibrantly colourful all-English Prom with the BBC National Orchestra and Chorus of Wales and conductor Laureate Tadaaki Otaka - a notable advocate of British music. The programme opens with Vaughan Williams's Tallis Fantasia, which uses the hidden spaces of the Royal Albert Hall acoustic to full effect. The first of two oratorios marks the 50th anniversary of the death of John Ireland, organist, choirmaster and Professor of Composition at the Royal College of Music. These Things Shall Be was commissioned by the BBC for the coronation of King George VI in 1937, setting a utopian text. The bass-baritone soloist is former Radio 3 new Generation Artist Jonathan Lemalu, who also takes the commanding role in Walton's dramatic retelling of the Biblical story, Belshazzar's Feast. With full orchestra and chorus augmented by two brass bands, it promises to raise the roof. Delius is another Proms anniversary for 2012, celebrated here with the Walk to the Paradise Garden from his opera A Village Romeo and Juliet. Tadaaki Otaka enjoys a long and prosperous relationship with the BBC National Orchestra of Wales, first as Principal Conductor (1987-95) and since as Laureate. In 2000 he was awarded the Elgar Medal for his services to British music. Vaughan Williams: Fantasia on a Theme by Thomas Tallis Ireland: These Things Shall Be Jonathan Lemalu (bass-baritone) London Brass BBC Symphony Chorus BBC National Chorus of Wales BBC National Orchestra of Wales Tadaaki Otaka (conductor) This Prom will be repeated on Tuesday 7th August at 2pm.
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31-Jul-2012
BBC Proms - 2012 Season: Proms Plus Literary Passions: 2. David Hill
Chief Conductor of the BBC Singers David Hill continues a series of events in which leading musicians from this year's Proms season reveal their literary passions and talk about what they're reading this summer.
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31-Jul-2012
BBC Proms - 2012 Season: Prom 22: 2. Mahler
Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Suzy Klein The BBC Philharmonic and their Conductor Laureate Gianandrea Noseda open tonight's Prom with Mozart's famous Don Giovanni Overture and celebrate Oliver Knussen's 60th Birthday with his second symphony. Gillian Keith is the soloist giving stratospheric voice to this setting of poems by Georg Trakl and Sylvia Plath. Mahler described his Seventh Symphony as 'light-hearted' and it is said to be the work that convinced Schoenberg of Mahler's greatness. Although one of his least performed symphonies its rich orchestration and imaginative use of unusual instruments, like guitar and mandolin, make it a compelling listen. Mahler: Symphony No. 7 This Prom will be repeated on Monday 6th August at 2pm.
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31-Jul-2012
BBC Proms - 2012 Season: Prom 22: 1. Mozart, Knussen
Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Suzy Klein The BBC Philharmonic and their Conductor Laureate Gianandrea Noseda open tonight's Prom with Mozart's famous Don Giovanni Overture and celebrate Oliver Knussen's 60th Birthday with his second symphony. Gillian Keith is the soloist giving stratospheric voice to this setting of poems by Georg Trakl and Sylvia Plath. Mahler described his Seventh Symphony as 'light-hearted' and it is said to be the work that convinced Schoenberg of Mahler's greatness. Although one of his least performed symphonies its rich orchestration and imaginative use of unusual instruments, like guitar and mandolin, make it a compelling listen. Mozart: Don Giovanni - Overture Oliver Knussen: Symphony No.2 This Prom will be repeated on Monday 6th August at 2pm.
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31-Jul-2012
BBC Proms - 2012 Season: Proms Chamber Music: PCM 03: 3. L'Arpeggiata
Presented by Clemency Burton-Hill The innovative period instrument ensemble L'Arpeggiata celebrate the Tarantella - a Mediterranean dance form which was born out of the myth that a venomous tarantula spider bite could only be cured by music and dancing. Known in the Middle Ages as 'tarantismo', the dance moves immitated the symptoms of a tarantula bite, such as excitability and restlessness. L'Arpeggiata perform a sequence of Baroque, traditional and improvised music on the theme, including works by Falconieri, Kapsberger, Kircher and Soler. Cazzati: Ciaccona Strozzi: Eraclito amoroso Trad: Stu' criatu Improvisation: Tarantella Napoletana Kapsberger: Toccata Prima Trad: La Carpinese Improvisation: Canario Marcello Vitale: Tarantella a Maria di Nardo' Improvisation: La dia Spagnola Strozzi: Che si puo fare Improvisation: Tarantella Italiana Soler: Fandango Kapsberger: L'Arpeggiata Monteverdi: Si dolce e'l tormento Marcello Vitale: Moresca Falconiero: La Suave Melodia Trad: Lu Passariellu Kircher: Antidotum Tarantulae L'Arpeggiata Christina Pluhar (theorbo/director).
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30-Jul-2012
BBC Proms - 2012 Season: Prom 21: 2. Bray, Stravinsky
Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Louise Fryer Mark Elder directs the Aldeburgh World Orchestra, a brand new ensemble of young musicians brought together from every continent, in music by Britten, Mahler and Stravinsky, plus a newly commisioned work by Charlotte Bray. Chosen by audition, and with a strict limit of twenty musicians from each continent, the orchestra will convene for three weeks in the Suffolk fishing town forever associated with Benjamin Britten. The programme begins with Britten's Sinfonia da Requiem, both a private memorial to his parents and a reaction to the developing menace of war. That's paired with two classic orchestral scores from the early twentieth century, which, though written just a few years apart inhabit completely different realms. The luxuriant Adagio from Mahler's Tenth symphony contrasts with the scandalous barbarities of Stravinsky's Rite but both have become musical icons. And before the Stravinsky comes a new work by one of the UK's most exciting new composing talents and one who already has an impressive list of international commissions to her name. Charlotte Bray: At the speed of stillness (BBC commission: world premiere) Stravinsky: The Rite of Spring Aldeburgh World Orchestra Sir Mark Elder (conductor).
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30-Jul-2012
BBC Proms - 2012 Season: Proms Live Interval: Part 3
Radio 3's regular Sunday look ahead to the coming week at the Proms, live from the presenter's box, including the latest in the series of "Lucy Worsley's Kensington", in which the historian takes a characteristically quirky look at things of interest within a stone's throw of the Royal Albert Hall. Plus features, live guests and discussions.
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30-Jul-2012
BBC Proms - 2012 Season: Prom 21: 1. Britten, Mahler
Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Louise Fryer Mark Elder directs the Aldeburgh World Orchestra, a brand new ensemble of young musicians brought together from every continent, in music by Britten, Mahler and Stravinsky, plus a newly commisioned work by Charlotte Bray. Chosen by audition, and with a strict limit of twenty musicians from each continent, the orchestra will convene for three weeks in the Suffolk fishing town forever associated with Benjamin Britten. The programme begins with Britten's Sinfonia da Requiem, both a private memorial to his parents and a reaction to the developing menace of war. That's paired with two classic orchestral scores from the early twentieth century, which, though written just a few years apart inhabit completely different realms. The luxuriant Adagio from Mahler's Tenth symphony contrasts with the scandalous barbarities of Stravinsky's Rite but both have become musical icons. And before the Stravinsky comes a new work by one of the UK's most exciting new composing talents and one who already has an impressive list of international commissions to her name. Britten: Sinfonia da Requiem Mahler: Symphony No. 10 - Adagio Aldeburgh World Orchestra Sir Mark Elder (conductor).
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30-Jul-2012
BBC Proms - 2012 Season: Proms Plus: Aldeburgh World Orchestra
Stephen Johnson and musicians from the Aldeburgh World Orchestra, specially created for the London 2012 Festival from young musicians from all over the world, give an illustrated introduction to the music in tonight's Prom. The Aldeburgh World Orchestra gathers together some of the finest emerging talent from over 30 countries, encapsulating the Olympic ideals of excellence, youth and diversity. It is part of Aldeburgh Music's Britten-Pears Young Artist Programme. Established 40 years ago, the Programme has made Aldeburgh one of the world's most important centres for supporting emerging musical talent. The Aldeburgh World Orchestra illustrates the far-reaching extent of Aldeburgh Music's artist development work, which now offers year-round training and performance opportunities to emerging professional musicians from across the globe. Planning for the AWO began three years ago, building on Aldeburgh Music's existing artist networks and reaching out beyond its traditional international links to embrace other conservatoires, festivals and youth orchestras around the world. These include the South African National Youth Orchestra, the Yong Siew Toh Conservatoire in Singapore, the Youth Orchestra of the Americas, the Buchman-Mehta School of Music in Israel, the Sydney Symphony Orchestra Fellowship scheme and many more. In addition to identifying exceptional talent through tried and tested routes, Aldeburgh Music also initiated the use of a new online audition platform, so that as many young artists as possible - regardless of location or background - could apply.
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30-Jul-2012
BBC Proms - 2012 Season: Prom 20: Aurora Orchestra Family Prom - Part 2
The Wallace & Gromit Prom Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Introduced by Ian McMillan The nation's favourite plasticine characters make their Proms debut in this programme of popular classics for all the family. With music by composers, John Adams, Debussy and Shostakovich and specially filmed Wallace & Gromit animations. Join the audience in the Royal Albert Hall as our dynamic duo prepare for the first performance of Wallace's brand-new Proms commission 'My Concerto in Ee, Lad'. After the Interval their short film about baking and murder - 'A Matter of Loaf and Death' - is performed with a live orchestral soundtrack. Tasmin Little (violin) Aurora Orchestra Nicholas Collon (conductor).
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30-Jul-2012
BBC Proms - 2012 Season: Prom 20: Aurora Orchestra Family Prom - Part 1
The Wallace & Gromit Prom Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Introduced by Ian McMillan The nation's favourite plasticine characters make their Proms debut in this programme of popular classics for all the family. With music by composers, John Adams, Debussy and Shostakovich and specially filmed Wallace & Gromit animations. Join the audience in the Royal Albert Hall as our dynamic duo prepare for the first performance of Wallace's brand-new Proms commission 'My Concerto in Ee, Lad'. After the Interval their short film about baking and murder - 'A Matter of Loaf and Death' - is performed with a live orchestral soundtrack. Tasmin Little (violin) Aurora Orchestra Nicholas Collon (conductor).
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29-Jul-2012
BBC Proms - 2012 Season: Prom 19: 2. Tchaikovsky
Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Petroc Trelawny. Thomas Dausgaard conducts the BBC Symphony Orchestra in Tchaikovsky's 6th Symphony, contemporary Danish music and Shostakovich's 1st Cello Concerto with soloist Daniel Muller-Schott. Thomas Dausgaard and the BBC Symphony Orchestra present a night of firsts. Making its UK premiere is maverick Rued Langgaard's tuba-rich 11th Symphony of 1945. There's also the UK premiere of octogenarian Pelle Gudmundsen-Holmgreen's Incontri. Daniel Muller-Schott makes his Poms debut as the soloist in Shostakovich's hyper-concentrated 1st Cello Concerto. And the Prom ends with Tchaikovsky's radical and deeply emotional 6th Symphony. Tchaikovsky: Symphony No. 6 in B minor 'Pathetique' Daniel Mueller-Schott (cello) BBC Symphony Orchestra Thomas Dausgaard (conductor) This Prom will be repeated on Friday 3rd August at 2pm.
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29-Jul-2012
BBC Proms - 2012 Season: Prom 19: 1. Langgaard, Gudmundsen-Holmgreen, Shostakovich
Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Petroc Trelawny. Thomas Dausgaard conducts the BBC Symphony Orchestra in Tchaikovsky's 6th Symphony, contemporary Danish music and Shostakovich's 1st Cello Concerto with soloist Daniel Muller-Schott. Thomas Dausgaard and the BBC Symphony Orchestra present a night of firsts. Making its UK premiere is maverick Rued Langgaard's tuba-rich 11th Symphony of 1945. There's also the UK premiere of octogenarian Pelle Gudmundsen-Holmgreen's Incontri. Daniel Muller-Schott makes his Poms debut as the soloist in Shostakovich's hyper-concentrated 1st Cello Concerto. And the Prom ends with Tchaikovsky's radical and deeply emotional 6th Symphony. Langgaard: Symphony No. 11 'Ixion' (UK Premiere) Pelle Gudmundsen-Holmgreen: Incontri (UK Premiere) Shostakovich: Cello concerto No. 1 in E flat major Daniel Mueller-Schott (cello) BBC Symphony Orchestra Thomas Dausgaard (conductor) This Prom will be repeated on Friday 3rd August at 2pm.
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29-Jul-2012
BBC Proms - 2012 Season: Proms Saturday Matinees: PSM 02: 2. Music from the Court of Louis XIII
Live from Cadogan Hall, London Presented by Christopher Cook Roger Norrington recreates the distinctive sounds of the orchestra of the French court of Louis XIV, Les 24 Violons du Roy. With suites by the important court musicians of the day - Lully, Marais, Campra and Lalande. For this special project, the Centre de Musique Baroque de Versailles has painstakingly recreated these early instruments, and they are played by musicians from the Royal College of Music and the French conservatoires of Paris and Orsay, reviving these unique musical textures as they might have been heard 300 years ago. Lully: Armide - suite Desmarets: Circé - suite Marais: Ariane & Bacchus - suite Campra: Tancrède - suite Lalande: Suite no.5 des Symphonies pour les Soupers du Roi (extracts) Royal College of Music Baroque Orchestra Centre de Musique Baroque Versailles Roger Norrington (conductor) This concert will be repeated on Sunday 12th August at 2pm.
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28-Jul-2012
BBC Proms - 2012 Season: Prom 18: Beethoven's Symphony No 9
Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Tom Service As the Olympic Games open in London, Daniel Barenboim and the West-Eastern Divan Orchestra reach the climax of their Beethoven Cycle with the iconic Ninth Symphony - a hymn to universal brotherhood. An impressive team of soloists joins the orchestra and the National Youth Choir of Great Britain to project the finale's epic vision of hope, reconciliation and triumph. A fitting way to mark this historic day. Beethoven: Symphony No. 9 in D minor, 'Choral' Anna Samuil (soprano) Waltraud Meier (mezzo-soprano) Michael König (tenor) René Pape (bass) National Youth Choir of Great Britain West-Eastern Divan Orchestra Daniel Barenboim (conductor) This concert will be repeated on Wednesday 1st August at 2pm.
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27-Jul-2012
BBC Proms - 2012 Season: Prom 16: 2. Ravel, Debussy
Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Martin Handley Ryan Wigglesworth conducts the BBC National Orchestra of Wales in an Entente Cordiale of British and French music. Joanna MacGregor, widely acclaimed as one of the world's most innovative musicians, is the soloist in Hugh Wood's jazz-influenced Piano Concerto. Hugh Wood celebrates his 80th birthday this year. Elgar's warm and sunny overture In the South opens the programme, a musical postcard from a happy holiday in Mediterranean Italy.The watery influence seeps into the French second half, which concludes with Debussy's revolutionary seascape La Mer, a sparkling of light at play on the ocean, forever associated with Hokusai's famous woodprint of the Great Wave. Around the same time, Ravel turned his attention to depicting a boat setting sail, fighting with wind and ocean's current. Originally one of his piano pieces, he later scored "Une barque sur l'ocean" with great precision for full orchestral colour. Henry Wood, founder of the Proms, was an early champion of Debussy in England, so it's fitting that Debussy's most popular piano pieces, La cathedrale engloutie, is heard in a rarely heard orchestration by Wood himself. Ravel: Une barque sur l'océan Debussy, orch. Henry Wood: La cathédrale engloutie Debussy: La mer Joanna MacGregor (piano) BBC National Orchestra of Wales Ryan Wigglesworth (conductor) This Prom will be repeated on Thursday 2nd August at 2pm.
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27-Jul-2012
BBC Proms - 2012 Season: Prom 17: Beethoven, Boulez
Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Tom Service Chamber music by Beethoven complements the current Proms cycle of his complete symphonies and is matched by Pierre Boulez's revolutionary work for voice and ensemble from the 1950's depicting 'the hammer without a master' in settings of texts by the Surrealist poet Rene Char. Beethoven: Piano Quintet in E flat major, Op. 16 Pierre Boulez: Le marteau sans maître Hilary Summers (alto) Members of the West-Eastern Divan Orchestra Pierre Boulez (conductor).
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27-Jul-2012
BBC Proms - 2012 Season: Prom 16: 1. Elgar, Hugh Wood
Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Martin Handley Ryan Wigglesworth conducts the BBC National Orchestra of Wales in an Entente Cordiale of British and French music. Joanna MacGregor, widely acclaimed as one of the world's most innovative musicians, is the soloist in Hugh Wood's jazz-influenced Piano Concerto. Hugh Wood celebrates his 80th birthday this year. Elgar's warm and sunny overture In the South opens the programme, a musical postcard from a happy holiday in Mediterranean Italy.The watery influence seeps into the French second half, which concludes with Debussy's revolutionary seascape La Mer, a sparkling of light at play on the ocean, forever associated with Hokusai's famous woodprint of the Great Wave. Around the same time, Ravel turned his attention to depicting a boat setting sail, fighting with wind and ocean's current. Originally one of his piano pieces, he later scored "Une barque sur l'ocean" with great precision for full orchestral colour. Henry Wood, founder of the Proms, was an early champion of Debussy in England, so it's fitting that Debussy's most popular piano pieces, La cathedrale engloutie, is heard in a rarely heard orchestration by Wood himself. Elgar: In the South (Alassio) Hugh Wood: Piano Concerto Joanna MacGregor (piano) BBC National Orchestra of Wales Ryan Wigglesworth (conductor) This Prom will be repeated on Thursday 2nd August at 2pm.
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27-Jul-2012
BBC Proms - 2012 Season: Proms Plus Late: Rob Brockway Trio, Adam O'Riordan
Informal post-Prom music and poetry from emerging young artists. Tonight's performers include the Rob Brockway Trio and Manchester poet Adam O'Riordan.
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26-Jul-2012
BBC Proms - 2012 Season: Prom 15: 2. Dvorak
Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Sara Mohr-Pietsch. Jiri Belohlavek conducts the BBC Symphony Orchestra in Dvorak's passionate 7th symphony and Vadim Gluzman makes his debut at the Proms as the soloist in Prokofiev's Violin Concerto No. 1 George Szell's orchestration of Smetana's autobiographical and poignant first string quartet, 'From My Life' makes its first appearance at the Proms tonight, as does tonight's tonight's artist, Vadim Gluzman. He joins the BBC Symphony Orchestra to perform Prokofiev's magical first Violin Concerto. And from the fairy-tale romance of the latter to the dark passion of Dvorak's Seventh Symphony - its premiere was directed here in London by the composer himself. Dvorak: Symphony No. 7 in D minor Vadim Gluzman (violin) BBC Symphony Orchestra Jirí Belohlávek (conductor) This Prom will be repeated on Tuesday 31st July at 2pm.
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26-Jul-2012
BBC Proms - 2012 Season: Prom 15: 1. Smetana, Prokofiev
Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Sara Mohr-Pietsch. Jiri Belohlavek conducts the BBC Symphony Orchestra in Dvorak's passionate 7th symphony and Vadim Gluzman makes his debut at the Proms as the soloist in Prokofiev's Violin Concerto No. 1 George Szell's orchestration of Smetana's autobiographical and poignant first string quartet, 'From My Life' makes its first appearance at the Proms tonight, as does tonight's tonight's artist, Vadim Gluzman. He joins the BBC Symphony Orchestra to perform Prokofiev's magical first Violin Concerto. And from the fairy-tale romance of the latter to the dark passion of Dvorak's Seventh Symphony - its premiere was directed here in London by the composer himself. Smetana, Orch. Szell: String Quartet No. 1 in E minor, 'From My Life'. Prokofiev: Violin Concerto No. 1 in D major Vadim Gluzman (violin) BBC Symphony Orchestra Jirí Belohlávek (conductor) This Prom will be repeated on Tuesday 31st July at 2pm.
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25-Jul-2012
BBC Proms - 2012 Season: Prom 14: Kronos Quartet
Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Andrew McGregor The Kronos Quartet makes its Proms debut with a typically eclectic Late Night programme which ranges from from Syrian folk-pop via Sofia Gubaidulina's Fourth Quartet to one based on 'Amazing Grace.' For almost 40 years, the Kronos Quartet has been reinventing the string quartet, regularly turning it into a multimedia experience. The group's first Proms appearance begins with high-octance Syrian folk-pop and ends with a Kronos commission blending classical strings with ethnic Balkan instruments, shouts, foot-stomping, bells and electronic overdubs. In between, varied fare from the group's eclectic repertoire plus a BBC commission inspired by the work of Delia Derbyshire of the BBC Radiophonic Workshop (responsible for the realisation of Ron Grainer's Doctor Who theme). Listen out, too, for the otherworldly Kronos arrangement of a Scandinavian folk lament. Omar Souleyman, arr. Jacob Garchik: I'll Prevent the Hunters from Hunting You (La sidounak sayyada) (UK premiere) Sofia Gubaidulina: String Quartet No. 4 Ben Johnston: String Quartet No. 4 'Amazing Grace' Nicole Lizée: The Golden Age of the Radiophonic Workshop (Fibre-Optic Flowers) (BBC commission: world premiere) Trad., transcr. Ljova, arr. Kronos Quartet: Tusen tankar (A Thousand Thoughts) Aleksandra Vrebalov: ... hold me, neighbour, in this storm ... Kronos Quartet.
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25-Jul-2012
BBC Proms - 2012 Season: Proms Plus: 24/07/2012
BBC correspondent Ed Stourton is joined by a panel of guests to explore the influence of the social and political uprisings of last year's 'Arab Spring' on contemporary Arabic literature.
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25-Jul-2012
BBC Proms - 2012 Season: Prom 13: 1. Beethoven, Boulez
Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Tom Service The West-Eastern Divan Orchestra, under the baton of Daniel Barenboim continues its Beethoven cycle with two dramatic symphonies: the compact Eighth and the Seventh, famously dubbed 'the apotheosis of dance'. It was the last piece conducted by Proms founder-conductor Henry Wood. This ebullient symphonic music is contrasted with Pierre Boulez's beautifully serene Anthèmes 2, scored for violin and live electronics. Beethoven: Symphony No. 8 in F major, Op. 93 Pierre Boulez: Anthèmes 2 Michael Barenboim (violin) IRCAM (live electronics) West-Eastern Divan Orchestra Daniel Barenboim (conductor) This Prom will be repeated on Monday 30th July at 2pm.
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24-Jul-2012
BBC Proms - 2012 Season: Prom 12: 2. Beethoven
Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Tom Service The West-Eastern Divan Orchestra, conducted by Daniel Barenboim performs two of Beethoven's most popular symphonies alongside two sparkling twentieth-century miniatures by Pierre Boulez. Beethoven's Symphonies No 6 in F major 'Pastoral' and No. 5 in C minor both broke new ground and have exerted influence on musical greats from Brahms to Berlioz. In his 'Pastoral' Symphony Beethoven evokes the Austrian countryside. During the Second World War the Fifth's opening rhythmic figure became synonymous with 'V for victory' (Morse code's three dots and a dash), the call sign used by the BBC to occupied Europe. Boulez's Mémoriale was written in memory of a young flautist colleague, while Messagesquisse spotlights the virtuosity of the orchestra's cellos. Beethoven: Symphony No. 5 in C minor Guy Eshed (flute) Hassan Moataz El Molla (cello) West-Eastern Divan Orchestra Daniel Barenboim (conductor) This concert will be repeated on Friday 27th July at 2pm.
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24-Jul-2012
BBC Proms - 2012 Season: Prom 12: 1. Beethoven, Boulez
Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Tom Service The West-Eastern Divan Orchestra, conducted by Daniel Barenboim performs two of Beethoven's most popular symphonies alongside two sparkling twentieth-century miniatures by Pierre Boulez. Beethoven's Symphonies No 6 in F major 'Pastoral' and No. 5 in C minor both broke new ground and have exerted influence on musical greats from Brahms to Berlioz. In his 'Pastoral' Symphony Beethoven evokes the Austrian countryside. During the Second World War the Fifth's opening rhythmic figure became synonymous with 'V for victory' (Morse code's three dots and a dash), the call sign used by the BBC to occupied Europe. Boulez's Mémoriale was written in memory of a young flautist colleague, while Messagesquisse spotlights the virtuosity of the orchestra's cellos. Beethoven: Symphony No. 6 in F major, 'Pastoral' Pierre Boulez: Mémoriale ('...explosante-fixe...'Originel) Pierre Boulez: Messagesquisse Guy Eshed (flute) Hassan Moataz El Molla (cello) West-Eastern Divan Orchestra Daniel Barenboim (conductor) This concert will be repeated on Friday 27th July at 2pm.
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24-Jul-2012
BBC Proms - 2012 Season: Proms Chamber Music: PCM 02: 2. Tenebrae
Live from Cadogan Hall, London Presented by Clemency Burton-Hill Vocal ensemble Tenebrae, in its Proms debut performance, conjures up the spirit of early 17th century London with old and new music based on the rhymes and street-cries of its inhabitants. Orlando Gibbons's The Cryes of London uses viols to accompany street vendors' cries, while Steve Martland's modern-day equivalent uses a marimba along with the voices in traditional songs such as 'Oranges and Lemons'. There's also the world premiere of Julian Philips's Sorowfull Songes, which sets an excerpt from the first anthology of English poetry, Tottel's Miscellany, published in London in 1557. Gibbons: First Set of Madrigals and Motets of Five Parts (1612) - selection Gibbons: The Cryes of London Julian Philips: Sorowfull Songes (BBC commission, world premiere) Steve Martland: Street Songs - selection Tenebrae Nigel Short (conductor) This concert will be repeated on Saturday 28th July at 2pm.
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23-Jul-2012
BBC Proms - 2012 Season: Proms Plus Literary: 3. The Trojans - Act 5
Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Donald Macleod From the Royal Opera's acclaimed new production directed by David McVicar, Antonio Pappano conducts a concert performance of Berlioz's The Trojans, with Bryan Hymel as Aeneas, Anna Caterina Antonacci as Cassandra and Eva Maria Westbroek as Dido. The Trojans is Berliozs' most ambitious work, one that he himself considered greater than anything he had done previously. Based on Virgil's epic poem The Aeneid, The Trojans tells the story of the destruction of Troy, and of the Trojan warrior Aeneas's quest to found a new dynasty in Italy. On the way he meets Dido, Queen of Carthage, and falls in love. In the ultimate battle between duty and love, which will prove stronger? 8.45pm Berlioz: The Trojans - Act 5 Aeneas ..... Bryan Hymel (tenor) Coroebus ..... Fabio Capitanucci (baritone) Panthus ..... Ashley Holland (baritone) Narbal ..... Brindley Sherratt (bass) Iopas ..... Ji-Min Park (tenor) Ascanius ..... Barbara Senator (mezzo-soprano) Cassandra ..... Anna Caterina Antonacci (soprano) Dido ..... Eva-Maria Westbroek (soprano) Anna ..... Hanna Hipp (mezzo-soprano) Hylas ..... Ed Lyon (tenor) Priam ..... Robert Lloyd (bass) Greek Chieftain ..... Lukas Jakobski (bass) Ghost of Hector ..... Jihoon Kim (bass) Helenus ..... Ji Hyun Kim (tenor) Hecuba ..... Pamela Helen Stephen (mezzo-soprano) Royal Opera Chorus Orchestra of the Royal Opera House Antonio Pappano (conductor).
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23-Jul-2012
BBC Proms - 2012 Season: Proms Plus Literary: 2. The Trojans - Acts 3 and 4
Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Donald Macleod From the Royal Opera's acclaimed new production directed by David McVicar, Antonio Pappano conducts a concert performance of Berlioz's The Trojans, with Bryan Hymel as Aeneas, Anna Caterina Antonacci as Cassandra and Eva Maria Westbroek as Dido. The Trojans is Berliozs' most ambitious work, one that he himself considered greater than anything he had done previously. Based on Virgil's epic poem The Aeneid, The Trojans tells the story of the destruction of Troy, and of the Trojan warrior Aeneas's quest to found a new dynasty in Italy. On the way he meets Dido, Queen of Carthage, and falls in love. In the ultimate battle between duty and love, which will prove stronger? Berlioz: The Trojans - Acts 3 & 4 Aeneas ..... Bryan Hymel (tenor) Coroebus ..... Fabio Capitanucci (baritone) Panthus ..... Ashley Holland (baritone) Narbal ..... Brindley Sherratt (bass) Iopas ..... Ji-Min Park (tenor) Ascanius ..... Barbara Senator (mezzo-soprano) Cassandra ..... Anna Caterina Antonacci (soprano) Dido ..... Eva-Maria Westbroek (soprano) Anna ..... Hanna Hipp (mezzo-soprano) Hylas ..... Ed Lyon (tenor) Priam ..... Robert Lloyd (bass) Greek Chieftain ..... Lukas Jakobski (bass) Ghost of Hector ..... Jihoon Kim (bass) Helenus ..... Ji Hyun Kim (tenor) Hecuba ..... Pamela Helen Stephen (mezzo-soprano) Royal Opera Chorus Orchestra of the Royal Opera House Antonio Pappano (conductor).
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23-Jul-2012
BBC Proms - 2012 Season: Proms Plus: Berlioz's The Trojans
Live from the Royal College of Music, London Sara Mohr-Pietsch introduces Berlioz's Trojans with the help of musicians from tonight Prom. Together they unpick Berlioz's music and how he tells the story in his opera of war, love and a man on a mission.
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23-Jul-2012
BBC Proms - 2012 Season: Proms Plus Literary: 1. The Trojans - Acts 1 and 2
Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Donald Macleod From the Royal Opera's acclaimed new production directed by David McVicar, Antonio Pappano conducts a concert performance of Berlioz's The Trojans, with Bryan Hymel as Aeneas, Anna Caterina Antonacci as Cassandra and Eva Maria Westbroek as Dido. The Trojans is Berliozs' most ambitious work, one that he himself considered greater than anything he had done previously. Based on Virgil's epic poem The Aeneid, The Trojans tells the story of the destruction of Troy, and of the Trojan warrior Aeneas's quest to found a new dynasty in Italy. On the way he meets Dido, Queen of Carthage, and falls in love. In the ultimate battle between duty and love, which will prove stronger? Berlioz: The Trojans - Acts 1 & 2 Aeneas ..... Bryan Hymel (tenor) Coroebus ..... Fabio Capitanucci (baritone) Panthus ..... Ashley Holland (baritone) Narbal ..... Brindley Sherratt (bass) Iopas ..... Ji-Min Park (tenor) Ascanius ..... Barbara Senator (mezzo-soprano) Cassandra ..... Anna Caterina Antonacci (soprano) Dido ..... Eva-Maria Westbroek (soprano) Anna ..... Hanna Hipp (mezzo-soprano) Hylas ..... Ed Lyon (tenor) Priam ..... Robert Lloyd (bass) Greek Chieftain ..... Lukas Jakobski (bass) Ghost of Hector ..... Jihoon Kim (bass) Helenus ..... Ji Hyun Kim (tenor) Hecuba ..... Pamela Helen Stephen (mezzo-soprano) Royal Opera Chorus Orchestra of the Royal Opera House Antonio Pappano (conductor).
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22-Jul-2012
BBC Proms - 2012 Season: Prom 10: 2. Beethoven
Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Tom Service Daniel Barenboim conducts the West-Eastern Divan Orchestra in the second concert of their five-part Beethoven symphony cycle, one of the highlights of this year's Proms season. Founded in 1999 with the aim of bringing together Arab and Israeli players, WEDO has gone far beyond the symbolic in its goal of building bridges through music, to become one of the world's most dynamic orchestras. Tonight, the Third and Fourth symphonies, alongside Pierre Boulez's playful work of 1984. 8.55pm Beethoven: Symphony No. 3 in E flat major, 'Eroica' Jussef Eisa (clarinet) IRCAM (live electronics) West-Eastern Divan Orchestra Daniel Barenboim (conductor) This Prom will be repeated on Thursday 26th July at 2pm.
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22-Jul-2012
BBC Proms - 2012 Season: Prom 10: 1. Beethoven, Boulez
Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Tom Service Daniel Barenboim conducts the West-Eastern Divan Orchestra in the second concert of their five-part Beethoven symphony cycle, one of the highlights of this year's Proms season. Founded in 1999 with the aim of bringing together Arab and Israeli players, WEDO has gone far beyond the symbolic in its goal of building bridges through music, to become one of the world's most dynamic orchestras. Tonight, the Third and Fourth symphonies, alongside Pierre Boulez's playful work of 1984. Beethoven: Symphony No. 4 in B flat major Pierre Boulez: Dialogue de I'ombre double 8.35pm Twenty Minutes: Goethe and the West-Eastern Divan (see separate billing) 8.55pm Beethoven: Symphony No. 3 in E flat major, 'Eroica' Jussef Eisa (clarinet) IRCAM (live electronics) West-Eastern Divan Orchestra Daniel Barenboim (conductor) This Prom will be repeated on Thursday 26th July at 2pm.
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22-Jul-2012
BBC Proms - 2012 Season: Proms Saturday Matinees: PSM 1: 1. AAM, Mahan Esfahani
Live from Cadogan Hall, London Presented by Christopher Cook Harpsichordist Mahan Esfahani joins the Academy of Ancient Music to perform Bach's Art of Fugue in a new instrumental arrangement by Esfahani himself. In doing so he revives the informal spirit of Bach's Leipzig coffee house concerts, in which the composer would direct his own band of musicians. Based on a single melody and consisting of 14 Fugues and 4 Canons, Bach explores the possibilities of what can be written by weaving the line of the melody against and around itself. Bach himself didn't stipulate the instrument (or instruments) for which he envisaged the work - the original manuscript is written in four voices on four separate lines and though Esfahani feels sure the work was undoubtedly written for a keyboard instrument, he says "it doesn't mean we can't explore another side of the music". J S Bach: The Art of Fugue (arr. Mahan Esfahani) Academy of Ancient Music Mahan Esfahani (harpsichord/director) This concert will be repeated on Sunday 29th July at 2pm.
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21-Jul-2012
BBC Proms - 2012 Season: Prom 09: 2. Beethoven
Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Tom Service Daniel Barenboim conducts the West-Eastern Divan Orchestra in the opening concert of their five-part Beethoven symphony cycle, one of the highlights of this year's Proms season. Founded in 1999 with the aim of bringing together Arab and Israeli players, WEDO has gone far beyond the symbolic in its goal of building bridges through music, to become one of the world's most dynamic orchestras. Each of the five concerts also offers the opportunity to hear the music of Pierre Boulez - like Beethoven, one of the great musical revolutionaries. Beethoven: Symphony No. 2 in D major West-Eastern Divan Orchestra Daniel Barenboim (conductor) This Prom will be repeated on Tuesday 24th July at 2pm.
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21-Jul-2012
BBC Proms - 2012 Season: Proms Plus: Barenboim and Beethoven
Daniel Barenboim and Beethoven. Some sixty years after making his international debut, the great pianist and conductor talks to Proms Director Roger Wright about his abiding passion for the music of Beethoven.
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21-Jul-2012
BBC Proms - 2012 Season: Prom 09: 1. Beethoven, Boulez
Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Tom Service Daniel Barenboim conducts the West-Eastern Divan Orchestra in the opening concert of their five-part Beethoven symphony cycle, one of the highlights of this year's Proms season. Founded in 1999 with the aim of bringing together Arab and Israeli players, WEDO has gone far beyond the symbolic in its goal of building bridges through music, to become one of the world's most dynamic orchestras. Each of the five concerts also offers the opportunity to hear the music of Pierre Boulez - like Beethoven, one of the great musical revolutionaries. Beethoven: Symphony No. 1 in C major Boulez: Dérive 2 8.50pm Interval: Proms Plus [see separate billing] 9.10pm Beethoven: Symphony No. 2 in D major West-Eastern Divan Orchestra Daniel Barenboim (conductor) This Prom will be repeated on Tuesday 24th July at 2pm.
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20-Jul-2012
BBC Proms - 2012 Season: Prom 08: 2. Judas Maccabaeus - Parts 2 and 3
Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Donald Macleod Handel's dramatic oratorio, Judas Maccabaeus, tells of the struggle for liberty and peace in Second Century Judea. It was a great success at its first performance in 1747 - proving even more popular than the Messiah. Handel's triumphant score includes the famous Chorus "See, the conqu'ring hero comes!" and is celebratory and direct in its impact. In tonight's performance, distinguished Handelian Laurence Cummings directs the Orchestra of the Age of Enlightenment alongside the Choir of the Enlightenment and a starry line-up of esteemed soloists. In his libretto for the oratorio, the Revd Thomas Morrell made use of the first book of Maccabaeus, in the Apocrypha, as his main source, with the backdrop of the Jewish resistance to the Syrian conquest of Judea in 169 BC. Following the death of Mattathias, his son Judas is proclaimed the new leader of the Israelites by his brother Simon. In Act I, Judas promises to fight for and restore his people's liberty, and is acclaimed for heroic defeats of two invading forces at the beginning of Act II. Following further triumph in defeating the Egyptian army outside Jerusalem in Act III, the independence of Judea is recognised and the promised liberty and peace is secured. However, there is indirect contemporary relevance in the sentiment of the oratorio's libretto, as Morell drew a clear parallel between Judas and the Duke of Cumberland who was seen as a heroic figurehead for the English Protestants following the 1745 Jacobite rebellion. Handel: Judas Maccabaeus (1750 version) - Part II John Mark Ainsley (Judas Maccabaeus) Alastair Miles (Simon/Eupolemus) Rosemary Joshua (Israelitish Woman) Christine Rice (Israelitish Man) Tim Mead (Israelitish messenger/priest) Choir of the Enlightenment Orchestra of the Age of Enlightenment Laurence Cummings (director) This Prom will be repeated on Monday 23rd July at 2pm.
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20-Jul-2012
BBC Proms - 2012 Season: Prom 08: Judas Maccabaeus - Part 1
Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Donald Macleod Handel's dramatic oratorio, Judas Maccabaeus, tells of the struggle for liberty and peace in Second Century Judea. It was a great success at its first performance in 1747 - proving even more popular than the Messiah. Handel's triumphant score includes the famous Chorus "See, the conqu'ring hero comes!" and is celebratory and direct in its impact. In tonight's performance, distinguished Handelian Laurence Cummings directs the Orchestra of the Age of Enlightenment alongside the Choir of the Enlightenment and a starry line-up of esteemed soloists. In his libretto for the oratorio, the Revd Thomas Morrell made use of the first book of Maccabaeus, in the Apocrypha, as his main source, with the backdrop of the Jewish resistance to the Syrian conquest of Judea in 169 BC. Following the death of Mattathias, his son Judas is proclaimed the new leader of the Israelites by his brother Simon. In Act I, Judas promises to fight for and restore his people's liberty, and is acclaimed for heroic defeats of two invading forces at the beginning of Act II. Following further triumph in defeating the Egyptian army outside Jerusalem in Act III, the independence of Judea is recognised and the promised liberty and peace is secured. However, there is indirect contemporary relevance in the sentiment of the oratorio's libretto, as Morell drew a clear parallel between Judas and the Duke of Cumberland who was seen as a heroic figurehead for the English Protestants following the 1745 Jacobite rebellion. Handel: Judas Maccabaeus (1750 version) - Part I 8.25pm Twenty Minutes: No Conquering Hero (see separate billing) 8.45pm Handel: Judas Maccabaeus (1750 version) - Parts II & III John Mark Ainsley (Judas Maccabaeus) Alastair Miles (Simon/Eupolemus) Rosemary Joshua (Israelitish Woman) Christine Rice (Israelitish Man) Tim Mead (Israelitish messenger/priest) Choir of the Enlightenment Orchestra of the Age of Enlightenment Laurence Cummings (director) This Prom will be repeated on Monday 23rd July at 2pm.
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19-Jul-2012
BBC Proms - 2012 Season: Prom 06: 2. Prokofiev
Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Petroc Trelawny Tonight's Prom opens with a new work which composer Fung Lam describes as "elegant, understated and highly lyrical". An intensely romantic lyricism also characterises Rachmaninov's popular concerto, while Prokofiev takes up a darker theme in his dramatic 6th Symphony, which looks back to the Second World War. Fung Lam's "Endless Forms" is inspired by the last sentence of Darwin's "The Origin of Species", and "celebrates an insight into the diversity of life", explains the composer. "The title also relates to Buddhism's view of life as endless cycles of forms: birth, death, rebirth. The subject of spiritual enlightenment is a recurring theme in my output." Rachmaninov's 2nd Piano Concerto is the triumphant work that crowned his recovery from a period of crippling depression in 1901. Prokofiev's bleak and powerful 6th Symphony is perhaps the most personal and poignant of his symphonies, completed in the exhausted aftermath of the Second World War and with mounting pressures on the Soviet Front. Prokofiev: Symphony No. 6 in E flat minor Kirill Gerstein (piano) Sakari Oramo (conductor) This Prom will be repeated on Friday 20th July at 2pm.
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19-Jul-2012
BBC Proms - 2012 Season: Prom 07: Le Concert Spirituel
Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Katie Derham In this Jubilee year, Handel's music for royal occasions is brought to the Proms by a leading French period instrument ensemble. Both the Water Music suites and the Music for the Royal Fireworks were originally performed outside, in Green Park and on the river Thames, with a large group of players required. Here, Le Concert Spirituel is expanded to an ensemble of 80 musicians, to recreate the resplendent atmosphere of these festive occasions. Handel: Water music - suite in F major Handel: Water music - suite in D major Handel: Water music - suite in G major Handel: Music for the Royal Fireworks Le Concert Spirituel Hervé Niquet (conductor) This concert will be repeated on Wednesday 25th July at 2pm.
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19-Jul-2012
BBC Proms - 2012 Season: Prom 06: 1. Fung Lam, Rachmaninov
Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Petroc Trelawny Tonight's Prom opens with a new work which composer Fung Lam describes as "elegant, understated and highly lyrical". An intensely romantic lyricism also characterises Rachmaninov's popular concerto, while Prokofiev takes up a darker theme in his dramatic 6th Symphony, which looks back to the Second World War. Fung Lam's "Endless Forms" is inspired by the last sentence of Darwin's "The Origin of Species", and "celebrates an insight into the diversity of life", explains the composer. "The title also relates to Buddhism's view of life as endless cycles of forms: birth, death, rebirth. The subject of spiritual enlightenment is a recurring theme in my output." Rachmaninov's 2nd Piano Concerto is the triumphant work that crowned his recovery from a period of crippling depression in 1901. Prokofiev's bleak and powerful 6th Symphony is perhaps the most personal and poignant of his symphonies, completed in the exhausted aftermath of the Second World War and with mounting pressures on the Soviet Front. Fung Lam: Endless Forms (BBC commission: world premiere) Rachmaninov: Piano Concerto No. 2 in C minor Kirill Gerstein (piano) BBC Symphony Orchestra Sakari Oramo (conductor) This Prom will be repeated on Friday 20th July at 2pm.
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19-Jul-2012
BBC Proms - 2012 Season: Proms Plus Literary Passions: 1. Jane Glover
Conductor Jane Glover begins a new four part series in which musicians from this year's Proms season reveal their literary passions and talk about what they're reading this summer. The presenter is Rana Mitter with extracts performed by Simon Callow.
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18-Jul-2012
BBC Proms - 2012 Season: Proms Live Interval: 1. Prom 03
The first of eight Sunday evening live Proms intervals from the Radio 3 box, including a regular mini-series, "Lucy Worsley's Kensington", in which the historian takes a characteristically quirky look at things of interest within a stone's throw of the Royal Albert Hall. Plus other features and discussions looking ahead to this week's concerts.
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18-Jul-2012
BBC Proms - 2012 Season: Prom 05: 2. Saariaho, Sibelius
Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Louise Fryer Nietzsche once said that "life without music would be a mistake". There is no danger of that as the BBC Philharmonic and their Chief Conductor Juanjo Mena take to the stage at the Royal Albert Hall for the first of their four Proms this season. Music by Richard Strauss is the focus before the interval with his Nietzsche-inspired symphonic poem "Also sprach Zarathustra" and glorious "Four Last Songs" sung by Anne Schwanewilms. The literary influence continues with Kaija Saariaho's "Laterna magica" which alludes to film director Ingmar Bergman's autobiography. The programme ends with Sibelius's remarkable, single-movement final symphony. Kaija Saariaho: Laterna magica (UK premiere) Sibelius: Symphony no.7 in C major Anne Schwanewilms (soprano) BBC Philharmonic Juanjo Mena (conductor) This Prom will be repeated on Thursday 19 July at 2pm.
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18-Jul-2012
BBC Proms - 2012 Season: Prom 05: 1. Strauss
Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Louise Fryer Nietzsche once said that "life without music would be a mistake". There is no danger of that as the BBC Philharmonic and their Chief Conductor Juanjo Mena take to the stage at the Royal Albert Hall for the first of their four Proms this season. Music by Richard Strauss is the focus before the interval with his Nietzsche-inspired symphonic poem "Also sprach Zarathustra" and glorious "Four Last Songs" sung by Anne Schwanewilms. The literary influence continues with Kaija Saariaho's "Laterna magica" which alludes to film director Ingmar Bergman's autobiography. The programme ends with Sibelius's remarkable, single-movement final symphony. R Strauss: Also sprach Zarathustra R Strauss: Four Last Songs Anne Schwanewilms (soprano) BBC Philharmonic Juanjo Mena (conductor) This Prom will be repeated on Thursday 19 July at 2pm.
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17-Jul-2012
BBC Proms - 2012 Season: Prom 04: 2. Adams
Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Katie Derham Leading West Coast composer-conductor, John Adams launches this year's celebration of young orchestras and choirs as two major music colleges from either side of the Atlantic share the Royal Albert Hall stage. In a suitably continent-crossing programme Adams conducts them in Respighi's exuberantly cinematic survey of the festivals of Rome, the eternal city, and ends with his own symphonic triptych evoking the mood of 1950s Los Angeles. Ravel's vivacious, blues-tinged concerto elegantly bridges the two worlds. John Adams: City Noir Imogen Cooper (piano) Juilliard Orchestra Orchestra of the Royal Academy of Music John Adams (conductor) This Prom will be repeated on Wednesday 18th July at 2pm.
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17-Jul-2012
BBC Proms - 2012 Season: Proms Plus: Juilliard School and Royal Academy of Music
Recorded earlier this evening in front of a live audience at the Royal College of Music. Louise Fryer talks to Ara Guzelimian from New York's Juilliard School of Music and Jonathan Freeman-Attwood from London's Royal Academy of Music about their respective music colleges and the long-standing series of transatlantic collaborations between the two which tonight's Prom showcases.
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17-Jul-2012
BBC Proms - 2012 Season: Prom 04: 1. Respighi, Ravel
Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Katie Derham Leading West Coast composer-conductor, John Adams launches this year's celebration of young orchestras and choirs as two major music colleges from either side of the Atlantic share the Royal Albert Hall stage. In a suitably continent-crossing programme Adams conducts them in Respighi's exuberantly cinematic survey of the festivals of Rome, the eternal city, and ends with his own symphonic triptych evoking the mood of 1950s Los Angeles. Ravel's vivacious, blues-tinged concerto elegantly bridges the two worlds. Respighi: Roman Festivals Ravel: Piano Concerto in G major Imogen Cooper (piano) Juilliard Orchestra Orchestra of the Royal Academy of Music John Adams (conductor) This Prom will be repeated on Wednesday 18th July at 2pm.
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17-Jul-2012
BBC Proms - 2012 Season: Proms Chamber Music: PCM01: 1. Alice Coote
Live from Cadogan Hall, London Presented by Clemency Burton-Hill British mezzo-soprano Alice Coote and her regular accompanist Julius Drake perform a personal selection of French songs by Gounod, Saint-Saëns, Fauré, Satie, Hahn and Poulenc. Widely sought after on the international opera stage, Alice Coote makes the first of three appearances in this year's Proms season to launch the Proms Chamber Music series. At the heart of each song is the marriage of melody and French poetry and this programme takes us on a voyage through French 'mélodie' from its early blossoming in the middle of the 19th Century with music by Gounod and Saint-Saëns, through its full bloom in the radiant Belle Époque gems of Faure and Hahn through to its late flowering in the works of Poulenc. Poulenc: Voyage à Paris. Fauré: Poeme d'un jour; En sourdine; Au bord de l'eau; Les roses d'Ispahan; Le secret; Notre amour. Gounod: Au printemps. Saint-Saëns: Aimons-nous. Hahn: L'énamourée; Fumée; Dans la nuit; L'heure exquise. Satie: Je te veux. Poulenc: C'est ainsi que tu es; Hôtel; Les chemins de l'amour. Alice Coote (mezzo-soprano), Julius Drake (piano). This concert will be repeated on Saturday 21st July at 2pm.
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16-Jul-2012
BBC Proms - 2012 Season: Prom 03: 2. Pelleas et Melisande - Acts 4-5
Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Suzy Klein For the 150th anniversary of Debussy's birth, John Eliot Gardiner conducts the operatic masterpiece, Pelléas et Mélisande. Debussy's score is full of atmospheric suggestion and insinuating eroticism, and it follows the story of the mysterious Mélisande, rescued from the forest by Golaud, who marries her then discovers his half-brother Pelléas has also fallen in love with her. This doomed love is the central focus of the opera, but there is much that is opaque, obtuse, elusive. John Eliot Gardiner says that "to conduct Pelléas et Mélisande is to enter another world." He has recently performed this landmark piece in Paris at the Opera Comique with his period instrument ensemble, and this is the first time it will be heard at the Proms on the instruments of Debussy's time. Debussy: Pelléas et Mélisande - Acts 4-5 Philip Addis (Pelléas) Karen Vourc'h (Mélisande) Laurent Naouri (Golaud) John Tomlinson (Arkel) Elodie Méchain (Geneviève) Dima Bawab (Yniold) Nahuel di Pierro (Doctor/Shepherd) Monteverdi Choir Orchestre Révolutionnaire et Romantique John Eliot Gardiner (conductor).
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16-Jul-2012
BBC Proms - 2012 Season: Prom 03: 1. Pelleas et Melisande - Acts 1-3
Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Suzy Klein For the 150th anniversary of Debussy's birth, John Eliot Gardiner conducts the operatic masterpiece, Pelléas et Mélisande. Debussy's score is full of atmospheric suggestion and insinuating eroticism, and it follows the story of the mysterious Mélisande, rescued from the forest by Golaud, who marries her then discovers his half-brother Pelléas has also fallen in love with her. This doomed love is the central focus of the opera, but there is much that is opaque, obtuse, elusive. John Eliot Gardiner says that "to conduct Pelléas et Mélisande is to enter another world." He has recently performed this landmark piece in Paris at the Opera Comique with his period instrument ensemble, and this is the first time it will be heard at the Proms on the instruments of Debussy's time. Debussy: Pelléas et Mélisande - Acts 1-3 8.40pm Twenty Minutes: Proms Plus Live (see separate billing) 9.00pm Debussy: Pelléas et Mélisande - Acts 4-5 Philip Addis (Pelléas) Karen Vourc'h (Mélisande) Laurent Naouri (Golaud) John Tomlinson (Arkel) Elodie Méchain (Geneviève) Dima Bawab (Yniold) Nahuel di Pierro (Doctor/Shepherd) Monteverdi Choir Orchestre Révolutionnaire et Romantique John Eliot Gardiner (conductor).
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16-Jul-2012
BBC Proms - 2012 Season: Proms Plus: Debussy's Pelleas et Melisande
Louise Fryer explores the music and symbolism in Debussy's only completed opera, based on the popular late 19th century play by Maurice Maeterlinck. The subject of the opera is doomed and forbidden love set in a claustrophobic, dream-like atmosphere which perfectly suited the music of Debussy. Louise is joined by musicologist Professor Richard Langham Smith and poet and French literature specialist Professor Patrick McGuinness.
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15-Jul-2012
BBC Proms - 2012 Season: Prom 02: My Fair Lady - Part 2
My Fair Lady Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Petroc Trelawny Eliza Doolittle, a Cockney flower girl takes speech lessons from professor Henry Higgins, a phoneticist, so that she may pass as a well-born lady in Lerner and Loewe's classic Broadway musical 'My Fair Lady' performed complete by the John Wilson Orchestra. Anthony Andrews as Professor Henry Higgins and Annalene Beechey as Eliza Doolittle lead an all-star cast in the John Wilson Orchestra's first ever recreation of a complete musical. As conductor John Wilson says "this really is the perfect light opera, flawless in its construction, book, lyrics, the way the songs weave in and out of, and develop the narrative - it's a joy." Although a Broadway classic it's also the archetypal London show with its roots in George Bernard Shaw's 'Pygmalion' and so it fits neatly into the London theme running through this year's Proms. For this semi-staged performance Wilson has dusted down the orchestrations for the 1964 film version of the work rather than the original stage orchestration to give the full-bodied sound of an orchestra of 70 to fill the Royal Albert Hall in what promises to be one of the highlights of the season. Anthony Andrews (Professor Henry Higgins) Annalene Beechey (Eliza Doolittle) Alun Armstrong (Doolittle) James Fleet (Colonel Pickering) Sian Phillips (Mrs Higgins) Jenny Galloway (Mrs Pearce) Julian Ovenden (Freddie) Shaun Kerrison (Stage director) John Wilson Orchestra John Wilson (Conductor) Lerner & Loewe: My Fair Lady Act II This Prom will be repeated on Tuesday 17th July at 2pm.
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15-Jul-2012
BBC Proms - 2012 Season: Prom 02: My Fair Lady - Part 1
My Fair Lady. Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London. Presented by Petroc Trelawny. Eliza Doolittle, a Cockney flower girl takes speech lessons from professor Henry Higgins, a phoneticist, so that she may pass as a well-born lady in Lerner and Loewe's classic Broadway musical 'My Fair Lady' performed complete by the John Wilson Orchestra. Anthony Andrews as Professor Henry Higgins and Annalene Beechey as Eliza Doolittle lead an all-star cast in the John Wilson Orchestra's first ever recreation of a complete musical. As conductor John Wilson says "this really is the perfect light opera, flawless in its construction, book, lyrics, the way the songs weave in and out of, and develop the narrative - it's a joy." Although a Broadway classic it's also the archetypal London show with its roots in George Bernard Shaw's 'Pygmalion' and so it fits neatly into the London theme running through this year's Proms. For this semi-staged performance, Wilson has dusted down the orchestrations for the 1964 film version of the work rather than the original stage orchestration, to let the full-bodied sound of an orchestra of 70 to fill the Royal Albert Hall in what promises to be one of the highlights of the season. Anthony Andrews (Professor Henry Higgins) Annalene Beechey (Eliza Doolittle) Alun Armstrong (Doolittle) James Fleet (Colonel Pickering) Sian Phillips (Mrs Higgins) Jenny Galloway (Mrs Pearce) Julian Ovenden (Freddie) John Wilson Orchestra John Wilson (Conductor) Shaun Kerrison (Stage director) Lerner & Loewe: My Fair Lady Act I This Prom will be repeated on Tuesday 17th July at 2pm.
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15-Jul-2012
BBC Proms - 2012 Season: Proms Plus: George Bernard Shaw's Pygmalion
A hundred years after it was written Professor Roy Foster and biographer Michael Holroyd discuss George Bernard Shaw's 'Pygmalion', the play which inspired 'My Fair Lady'. Shaw created the character of Eliza Doolittle for Mrs Patrick Campbell, She played the role in the first British production in 1914 with Herbert Beerbohm Tree as Henry Higgins. 'The reformer England needs today is an energetic phonetic enthusiast: that is why I have made such a one the hero of a popular play', wrote Shaw. Matthew Sweet presents.
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14-Jul-2012
BBC Proms - 2012 Season: Prom 01: First Night of the Proms 2012 - Part 2
Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Petroc Trelawny The BBC Symphony Orchestra and Chorus with the First Night of the 2012 Proms. In the year of the London Olympics four British conductors pass the baton in an all-English programme. Expect proceedings to get off to a bang with Mark-Anthony Turnage's punchy brass and percussion fanfare. After that London itself is celebrated with Elgar's pen portrait of the city at the turn of the 20th century and described by the composer as 'cheerful and Londony'. Yokshireman Frederick Delius was born 150 years ago and will be celebrated throughout the season with some of his major works, tonight it's his setting of Walt Whitman's poem Sea Drift, an exploration of the experience of bereavement through a seabird's loss of his mate. With this year also being Her Majesty the Queen's Diamond Jubilee it's music with a royal connections that makes up the second half: Michael Tippett's joyous and lyrical Suite for the Birthday of Prince Charles and Elgar's Coronation Ode, which brings the concert to a rousing climax. Tippett: Suite for the Birthday of Prince Charles (#) Elgar: Coronation Ode (1911 version) (*) Susan Gritton (soprano) Sarah Connolly (mezzo soprano) Robert Murray (tenor) Gerald Finley (bass baritone) Bryn Terfel (bass baritone) BBC Symphony Chorus BBC Symphony Orchestra (*) Edward Gardner (conductor) (+) Sir Roger Norrington (conductor) () Sir Mark Elder (conductor) (#) Martyn Brabbins (conductor) This Prom will be repeated on Monday 16th July at 2pm.
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14-Jul-2012
BBC Proms - 2012 Season: Prom 01: First Night of the Proms 2012 - Part 1
Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Petroc Trelawny The BBC Symphony Orchestra and Chorus with the First Night of the 2012 Proms. In the year of the London Olympics four British conductors pass the baton in an all-English programme. Expect proceedings to get off to a bang with Mark-Anthony Turnage's punchy brass and percussion fanfare. After that London itself is celebrated with Elgar's pen portrait of the city at the turn of the 20th century and described by the composer as 'cheerful and Londony'. Yorkshireman Frederick Delius was born 150 years ago and will be celebrated throughout the season with some of his major works, tonight it's his setting of Walt Whitman's poem Sea Drift, an exploration of the experience of bereavement through a seabird's loss of his mate. With this year also being Her Majesty the Queen's Diamond Jubilee, it's music with a royal connections that makes up the second half: Michael Tippett's joyous and lyrical Suite for the Birthday of Prince Charles and Elgar's Coronation Ode, which brings the concert to a rousing climax. Mark: Anthony Turnage: Canon Fever (*) Elgar: Overture 'Cockaigne (In London Town)' (+) Delius: Sea Drift () 8.20pm Discovering Music: Elgar's Coronation Ode (see separate billing) 8.40pm Tippett: Suite for the Birthday of Prince Charles (#) Elgar: Coronation Ode (1911 version) (*) Susan Gritton (soprano) Sarah Connolly (mezzo-soprano) Robert Murray (tenor) Gerald Finley (bass-baritone) Bryn Terfel (bass-baritone) BBC Symphony Chorus BBC Symphony Orchestra (*) Edward Gardner (conductor) (+) Sir Roger Norrington (conductor) () Sir Mark Elder (conductor) (#) Martyn Brabbins (conductor) This Prom will be repeated on Monday 16th July at 2pm.
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11-Sep-2011
BBC Proms - 2011: Prom 74: Last Night of the Proms: 2. Chopin, Grainger, Britten, Rodgers, Elgar, Arne, Parry
BBC PROMS 2011 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Sean Rafferty and Suzy Klein Conductor Edward Gardner leads the traditional festivities of the Last Night of the Proms with performers including super-star pianist Lang Lang playing Liszt and soprano Susan Bullock singing Wagner. Gardner, who is the youngest Last Night conductor since Sir Henry Wood himself on the first Last Night in 1895, brings a youthful verve to the celebrations, and it's an event he's looking forward to greatly: "I was aware of the Last Night as a kid and to be involved is extraordinary." He's joined by leading dramatic soprano Susan Bullock who performs Brunnhilde's famous 'Immolation Scene' which concludes Wagner's epic Ring cycle, as well as leading the customary communal singing after the Interval. Super-star pianist Lang Lang - the man who's inspired millions of Chinese children to take up the piano - performs Liszt, a composer who he describes as a "rock star" but also a "truly great musician" - words that could equally describe Lang Lang himself. But it's the Prommers who give the Proms their special atmosphere. Standing night after night in the arena and the gallery their attentiveness and enthusiasm for the music inspires performers to produce exceptional performances. They also organise the nightly collection which raises thousands of pounds every year for musical charities. So it's fitting that this year the party begins with a celebration of the Prommers with a new work by Peter Maxwell Davies commissioned by the Musicians Belevolent Fund who are one of the beneficiaries of the annual collection Chopin: Grande Polonaise brillante, Op. 22 Grainger: Mo nighean dubh (My Dark-Haired Maiden) Britten: The Young Person's Guide to the Orchestra Rodgers: The Sound of Music - 'Climb ev'ry mountain' Rodgers: Carousel - 'You'll never walk alone' Elgar: Pomp and Circumstance March No. 1 in D major ('Land of Hope and Glory') Arne: Rule Britannia Parry (orch. Elgar): Jerusalem The National Anthem Lang Lang (piano) Susan Bullock (soprano) The Fanfare Trumpeters of the Household Division BBC Symphony Chorus BBC Symphony Orchestra Edward Gardner (conductor).
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11-Sep-2011
BBC Proms - 2011: Prom 74: Last Night of the Proms: 1. Maxwell Davies, Bartok, Wagner, Liszt
BBC PROMS 2011 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Sean Rafferty and Suzy Klein Conductor Edward Gardner leads the traditional festivities of the Last Night of the Proms with performers including super-star pianist Lang Lang playing Liszt and soprano Susan Bullock singing Wagner. Gardner, who is the youngest Last Night conductor since Sir Henry Wood himself on the first Last Night in 1895, brings a youthful verve to the celebrations, and it's an event he's looking forward to greatly: "I was aware of the Last Night as a kid and to be involved is extraordinary." He's joined by leading dramatic soprano Susan Bullock who performs Brunnhilde's famous 'Immolation Scene' which concludes Wagner's epic Ring cycle, as well as leading the customary communal singing after the Interval. Super-star pianist Lang Lang - the man who's inspired millions of Chinese children to take up the piano - performs Liszt, a composer who he describes as a "rock star" but also a "truly great musician" - words that could equally describe Lang Lang himself. But it's the Prommers who give the Proms their special atmosphere. Standing night after night in the arena and the gallery their attentiveness and enthusiasm for the music inspires performers to produce exceptional performances. They also organise the nightly collection which raises thousands of pounds every year for musical charities. So it's fitting that this year the party begins with a celebration of the Prommers with a new work by Peter Maxwell Davies commissioned by the Musicians Belevolent Fund who are one of the beneficiaries of the annual collection Sir Peter Maxwell Davies: Musica benevolens (Musicians Benevolent Fund commission - World Premiere) Bartók: The Miraculous Mandarin - suite Wagner: Götterdämmerung - Immolation Scene Liszt: Piano Concerto No. 1 in E flat major Lang Lang (piano) Susan Bullock (soprano) The Fanfare Trumpeters of the Household Division BBC Symphony Chorus BBC Symphony Orchestra Edward Gardner (conductor).
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11-Sep-2011
BBC Proms - 2011: BBC Proms in the Park
Now in its 16th year - Sir Terry Wogan presents BBC Proms in the Park, live from London's Hyde Park. The BBC Concert Orchestra is conducted by their Principal Conductor Keith Lockhart in a selection of popular classics and are joined by some very special guests. This year's guests include mezzo soprano Katherine Jenkins; tenor Russell Watson; singer-songwriter Josh Groban and finale guests Westlife. Veteran entertainer Rolf Harris brings the sound of the didgeridoo and wobble board to the Last Night celebrations and the pianist Lang Lang attempts to be the first artist to play both Proms in the Park and the Last Night of the Proms on the same evening. Finally, the Hyde Park crowd link up to the Royal Albert Hall to join in the nation's biggest singalong and the Last Night of the Proms Finale.
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10-Sep-2011
BBC Proms - 2011: Prom 73: 2. Weber's Der Freischutz (Act 3)
BBC PROMS 2011 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Martin Handley A rare chance to hear Weber's opera Der Freischutz, one of the cornerstones of German Romantic opera, reimagined by Berlioz for audiences at the Paris Opera. As originally composed, the work has spoken dialogue in German but, for the Paris production of 1841, Berlioz - a huge fan of Weber - replaced the dialogue with recitatives as well as adding the ballet expected by French audiences at the time. Sir John Eliot Gardiner conducts, and tenor Andrew Kennedy as the forester-hero, Max, and the Belgian soprano Sophie Karthauser as his beloved Agathe lead the international cast in this dramatic tale of romance and magic. Weber: Der Freischütz (Act 3) Andrew Kennedy (Max) Sophie Karthäuser (Agathe) Gidon Saks (Kaspar) Virginie Pochon (Ännchen) Matthew Brook (Kuno) Luc Bertin-Hugault (A Hermit) Christian Pelissier (Zamiel) Samuel Evans (Kilian) Robert Davies (Ottokar) Monteverdi Choir Orchestre Révolutionnaire et Romantique Sir John Eliot Gardiner (conductor).
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10-Sep-2011
BBC Proms - 2011: Prom 73: 1. Weber's Der Freischutz (Acts 1 and 2)
BBC PROMS 2011 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Martin Handley A rare chance to hear Weber's opera Der Freischutz, one of the cornerstones of German Romantic opera, reimagined by Berlioz for audiences at the Paris Opera. As originally composed, the work has spoken dialogue in German but, for the Paris production of 1841, Berlioz - a huge fan of Weber - replaced the dialogue with recitatives as well as adding the ballet expected by French audiences at the time. Sir John Eliot Gardiner conducts, and tenor Andrew Kennedy as the forester-hero, Max, and the Belgian soprano Sophie Karthauser as his beloved Agathe lead the international cast in this dramatic tale of romance and magic. Weber: Der Freischütz (French Version, 1841) (Acts 1 & 2) Andrew Kennedy (Max) Sophie Karthäuser (Agathe) Gidon Saks (Kaspar) Virginie Pochon (Ännchen) Matthew Brook (Kuno) Luc Bertin-Hugault (A Hermit) Christian Pelissier (Zamiel) Samuel Evans (Kilian) Robert Davies (Ottokar) Monteverdi Choir Orchestre Révolutionnaire et Romantique Sir John Eliot Gardiner (conductor).
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09-Sep-2011
BBC Proms - 2011: Prom 72: 2. Rachmaninov, Ravel
BBC PROMS 2011 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Petroc Trelawny One of the world's great orchestras comes to the Proms with a programme of familiar classics including Rachmaninov's Symphonic Dances, written for Philadelphia. Charles Dutoit conducts, and violinist Janine Jansen joins the orchestra for the ever-popular Tchaikovsky Concerto. These works are bookended by Sibelius's nationalistic tone poem and Ravel's apotheosis of the waltz, a piece whose unstoppable whirling may have been intended as a metaphor for the fate of European civilisation. Rachmaninov: Symphonic Dances Ravel: La valse Janine Jansen (violin) Philadelphia Orchestra Charles Dutoit (conductor).
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09-Sep-2011
BBC Proms - 2011: Prom 72: 1. Sibelius, Tchaikovsky
BBC PROMS 2011 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Petroc Trelawny One of the world's great orchestras comes to the Proms with a programme of familiar classics including Rachmaninov's Symphonic Dances, written for Philadelphia. Charles Dutoit conducts, and violinist Janine Jansen joins the orchestra for the ever-popular Tchaikovsky Concerto. These works are bookended by Sibelius's nationalistic tone poem and Ravel's apotheosis of the waltz, a piece whose unstoppable whirling may have been intended as a metaphor for the fate of European civilisation. Sibelius: Finlandia Tchaikovsky: Violin Concerto Janine Jansen (violin) Philadelphia Orchestra Charles Dutoit (conductor).
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08-Sep-2011
BBC Proms - 2011: Prom 71 - Stan Kenton Tribute
BBC PROMS 2011 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Jez Nelson A Late Night centenary tribute to the great American band leader Stan Kenton whose orchestra during the late 1940s and early 1950s was the biggest jazz attraction in the world. Drawing to its ranks the cream of America's soloists and arrangers his famous 'wall of sound' is still hugely influential on the big bands today. The BBC Big Band celebrates his legacy in a programme that includes some of his classical arrangements with special guest vocalist Claire Martin. Kenton: Artistry in Rhythm (excerpt) Sampson (arr. Bill Holman): Stompin' At The Savoy Strouse: (arr. Bill Holman): Lot Of Livin' To Do Greer (arr. Kenton): All About Ronnie Warren (arr. Kenton): Jeepers Creepers Johnston (arr Paich): My Old Flame Kenton: Concerto To End All Concertos Lecuona (arr. Bill Holman): Malaguena Burke (arr. Kenton): Black Coffee Strayhorn (arr. Niehaus): Daydream Richards: Cuban Fire Suite Claire Martin (vocalist) BBC Big Band Jiggs Whigham (conductor).
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08-Sep-2011
BBC Proms - 2011: Prom 70: 2. Holst
BBC PROMS 2011 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Katie Derham Head into outer space with Holst's planetary survey. Plus Sir Harrison Birtwistle's new Violin Concerto - his first for a stringed instrument - and Frank Bridge's Keats-inspired symphonic poem Isabella. Frank Bridge is at his most romantic and Lisztian in this symphonic poem , given its world premiere at the Proms by founder-conductor Henry Wood. Birtwistle's Violin Concerto was commissioned by the Boston Symphony Orchestra for Christian Tetzlaff and unveiled by him in March to rave reviews. The composer himself studied the clarinet, although he says, 'I had some violin lessons at school, so I have a memory of the physical feel of the instrument, in a sense. It's rather like remembering how to bowl a leg break in cricket, even if I couldn't do it now.' Holst's The Planets displays astonishing verve in its orchestration and in the radicalism of much of its content for its time. Holst: The Planets Christian Tetzlaff (violin) Holst Singers BBC Symphony Orchestra David Robertson (conductor) This Prom will be repeated on Sunday 11 September at 2pm.
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08-Sep-2011
BBC Proms - 2011: Prom 70: 1. Bridge, Birtwistle
BBC PROMS 2011 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Katie Derham Head into outer space with Holst's planetary survey. Plus Sir Harrison Birtwistle's new Violin Concerto - his first for a stringed instrument - and Frank Bridge's Keats-inspired symphonic poem Isabella. Frank Bridge is at his most romantic and Lisztian in this symphonic poem , given its world premiere at the Proms by founder-conductor Henry Wood. Birtwistle's Violin Concerto was commissioned by the Boston Symphony Orchestra for Christian Tetzlaff and unveiled by him in March to rave reviews. The composer himself studied the clarinet, although he says, 'I had some violin lessons at school, so I have a memory of the physical feel of the instrument, in a sense. It's rather like remembering how to bowl a leg break in cricket, even if I couldn't do it now.' Holst's The Planets displays astonishing verve in its orchestration and in the radicalism of much of its content for its time. Bridge: Isabella Harrison Birtwistle: Concerto for Violin and Orchestra (UK Premiere) Christian Tetzlaff (violin) Holst Singers BBC Symphony Orchestra David Robertson (conductor) This Prom will be repeated on Sunday 11 September at 2pm.
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07-Sep-2011
BBC Proms - 2011: Prom 69: 2. Mahler
BBC PROMS 2011 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Petroc Trelawny The Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra returns for the second of two concerts with its Music Director Manfred Honeck. Mahler's turbulent Fifth Symphony is the main work. Written whilst he was recuperating from a sudden life-threatening illness, it is full of nostalgia. The famous Adagietto leads into a wonderfully transformative final movement. Before this the orchestra are joined by the celebrated German violinist Anne-Sophie Mutter for 'Time Chant' - a never ending aria by her compatriot, Wolfgang Rihm. Wagner's ethereal Prelude to Lohengrin opens the programme. Mahler: Symphony No. 5 in C sharp minor Anne-Sophie Mutter (violin) Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra Manfred Honeck (conductor) This Prom will be repeated on Friday 9 September at 2.30pm.
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07-Sep-2011
BBC Proms - 2011: Prom 69: 1. Wagner, Rihm
BBC PROMS 2011 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Petroc Trelawny The Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra returns for the second of two concerts with its Music Director Manfred Honeck. Mahler's turbulent Fifth Symphony is the main work. Written whilst he was recuperating from a sudden life-threatening illness, it is full of nostalgia. The famous Adagietto leads into a wonderfully transformative final movement. Before this the orchestra are joined by the celebrated German violinist Anne-Sophie Mutter for 'Time Chant' - a never ending aria by her compatriot, Wolfgang Rihm. Wagner's ethereal Prelude to Lohengrin opens the programme. Wagner: Lohengrin (Prelude, Act 1) Wolfgang Rihm: Gesungene Zeit Anne-Sophie Mutter (violin) Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra Manfred Honeck (conductor) This Prom will be repeated on Friday 9 September at 2.30pm.
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06-Sep-2011
BBC Proms - 2011: Prom 68: 2. Tchaikovsky
BBC PROMS 2011 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Suzy Klein The Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra visits the Proms with its Music Director Manfred Honeck, bringing favourites by Beethoven and Tchaikovsky. First on the programme though is a concert rarity: a flamboyant orchestral work by Walther Braunfels, whose career was knocked off course in Nazi Germany. Although profoundly influenced by Wagner he was also a huge admirer of Berlioz, as is evident in this work. Beethoven's Fourth Piano concerto, played by Hélène Grimaud, shows the intimate as well as the dramatic side of the composer. Tchaikovsky's triumphant symphony concludes the programme. This is the first of two Proms with the Pittsburgh Orchestra. Tchaikovsky: Symphony No. 5 in E minor Hélène Grimaud (piano) Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra Manfred Honeck (conductor) This Prom will be repeated on Thursday 8 September at 2.30pm.
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06-Sep-2011
BBC Proms - 2011: Prom 68: 1. Braunfels, Beethoven
BBC PROMS 2011 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Suzy Klein The Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra visits the Proms with its Music Director Manfred Honeck, bringing favourites by Beethoven and Tchaikovsky. First on the programme though is a concert rarity: a flamboyant orchestral work by Walther Braunfels, whose career was knocked off course in Nazi Germany. Although profoundly influenced by Wagner he was also a huge admirer of Berlioz, as is evident in this work. Beethoven's Fourth Piano concerto, played by Hélène Grimaud, shows the intimate as well as the dramatic side of the composer. Tchaikovsky's triumphant symphony concludes the programme. This is the first of two Proms with the Pittsburgh Orchestra. Braunfels: Fantastic Appearances of a Theme of Hector Berlioz Beethoven: Piano Concerto No. 4 in G major Hélène Grimaud (piano) Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra Manfred Honeck (conductor) This Prom will be repeated on Thursday 8 September at 2.30pm.
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06-Sep-2011
BBC Proms - 2011: Proms Chamber Music: 8. Christian Tetzlaff, Lars Vogt
BBC PROMS CHAMBER MUSIC 2011 Live from Cadogan Hall, London Presented by Catherine Bott Featured Proms artist Christian Tetzlaff is joined by pianist Lars Vogt for a Proms Saturday matinée. Mozart's final Violin Sonata is followed by Bartok's first. A favourite composer of Tetzlaff's, Bartok stretches tonality in his Sonata, combining dance rhythms with rhapsodic passages and requires a virtuosic technique from the performers. Mozart: Violin Sonata in A major, K526 Bartok: Violin Sonata No. 1 Christian Tetzlaff (violin) Lars Vogt (piano) This Prom will be repeated on Saturday 10 September at 2pm.
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05-Sep-2011
BBC Proms - 2011: Prom 67 - Beethoven's Missa Solemnis
BBC PROMS 2011 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Andrew McGregor In the last of this season's Choral Sundays, Sir Colin Davis tackles the largest and longest of Beethoven's non-stage works, the Missa Solemnis. This monumental work seems to skirt the boundaries of whether it is music made for the concert hall or the church. "My chief aim was to awaken and permanently instill religious feelings not only into the singers but also into the listeners," Beethoven himself wrote of the work. The London Symphony Orchestra and Chorus, and London Philharmonic Choir lead the huge forces in what Beethoven considered to be his supreme achievement in music. The quartet of soloists, made up of soprano Helena Juntunen, mezzo Sarah Connolly, tenor Paul Groves, and bass Matthew Rose, have demanding roles in this work, where the orchestra, chorus, and quartet each take on changing and challenging musical roles. Beethoven: Missa Solemnis Helena Juntunen (soprano) Sarah Connolly (mezzo-soprano) Paul Groves (tenor) Matthew Rose (bass) London Philharmonic Choir London Symphony Chorus London Symphony Orchestra Sir Colin Davis (conductor) This prom will be repeated on Tuesday 6 September at 2.30pm.
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05-Sep-2011
BBC Proms - 2011: Prom 66 - Escaich, Bach, Reger, Franck, Liszt
BBC PROMS 2011 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Catherine Bott Making his Prom debut the Parisian organist Thierry Escaich, one of today's most famed exponents of the art of improvisation, demonstrates his skills in a variety of styles on the mighty Albert Hall instrument, and also plays concert works by four great organist-composers from the 18th and 19th centuries. Improvisation has always been part of the organist's musical armoury, and never more so than amongst the great French players of the instrument. Thierry Escaich: Overture in the Baroque Style (improvisation) J. S. Bach: Chorale Prelude 'Nun komm, der Heiden Heiland', BWV 659 Thierry Escaich: Evocation III (on 'Nun komm, der Heiden Heiland') (UK Premiere) Reger: Chorale Prelude 'Jauchz, Erd, und Himmel, juble hell', Op. 67 No. 15 Franck: Chorale No. 2 in B minor Liszt: Adagio in D flat major, S759 Thierry Escaich: Triptych on Themes by Liszt (improvisation) Thierry Escaich (organ).
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04-Sep-2011
BBC Proms - 2011: Prom 65: 2. Rachmaninov, Kodaly
BBC PROMS 2011 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Penny Gore The BBC National Orchestra of Wales and Principal Guest Conductor Jac van Steen bring two dazzling concertos to the Proms. Canadian pianist Marc-André Hamelin displays his virtuosity in Rachmaninov's ever popular Rhapsody, and Proms featured organist David Goode plays Michael Berkeley's demanding concerto, which receives its London premiere. The programme includes two musical pictures: Elgar's Edwardian soundscape of Old London Town, and Kodály's suite Háry János, which brings to life the unlikely exploits of an old Hungarian hero. Michael Berkeley had the cavernous space of Westminster cathedral in mind with his organ concerto, he was a choirboy there. A central theme is of fire, a force that cleanses and obliterates all in its path. The Royal Albert Hall, with its immense Henry Willis organ and generous acoustic should prove an ideal venue. A sense of ritual and religious theatre also comes from offstage trumpets, high in the gallery. Soloist David Goode has already delighted promenaders twice this season, in Janacek's Glagolitic Mass and Havergal Brian's Gothic Symphony. An exceptional talent, he remains undaunted by the challenges of the concerto. Marc-André Hamelin has won great critical acclaim for his "jaw dropping technique" and "probing musicianship". He's been a tireless advocate of less familiar concertos, and he also is a composer. Here he brings his formidable talents to bear on a great favourite of the piano repertoire. Rachmaninov's Rhapsody is one of the most brilliant works for piano and orchestra, though with an underlying sense of devilry. Rachmaninov: Rhapsody on a theme of Paganini Kodály: Háry János - suite Marc-André Hamelin (piano) David Goode (organ) BBC National Orchestra of Wales Jac van Steen (conductor) This prom will be repeated on Monday 5 September at 2.00pm.
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04-Sep-2011
BBC Proms - 2011: Prom 65: 1. Elgar, M Berkeley
BBC PROMS 2011 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Penny Gore The BBC National Orchestra of Wales and Principal Guest Conductor Jac van Steen bring two dazzling concertos to the Proms. Canadian pianist Marc-André Hamelin displays his virtuosity in Rachmaninov's ever popular Rhapsody, and Proms featured organist David Goode plays Michael Berkeley's demanding concerto, which receives its London premiere. The programme includes two musical pictures: Elgar's Edwardian soundscape of Old London Town, and Kodály's suite Háry János, which brings to life the unlikely exploits of an old Hungarian hero. Michael Berkeley had the cavernous space of Westminster cathedral in mind with his organ concerto, he was a choirboy there. A central theme is of fire, a force that cleanses and obliterates all in its path. The Royal Albert Hall, with its immense Henry Willis organ and generous acoustic should prove an ideal venue. A sense of ritual and religious theatre also comes from offstage trumpets, high in the gallery. Soloist David Goode has already delighted promenaders twice this season, in Janacek's Glagolitic Mass and Havergal Brian's Gothic Symphony. An exceptional talent, he remains undaunted by the challenges of the concerto. Marc-André Hamelin has won great critical acclaim for his "jaw dropping technique" and "probing musicianship". He's been a tireless advocate of less familiar concertos, and he also is a composer. Here he brings his formidable talents to bear on a great favourite of the piano repertoire. Rachmaninov's Rhapsody is one of the most brilliant works for piano and orchestra, though with an underlying sense of devilry. Elgar: Overture Cockaigne (In London Town) Michael Berkeley: Organ Concerto (London premiere) Marc-André Hamelin (piano) David Goode (organ) BBC National Orchestra of Wales Jac van Steen (conductor) This prom will be repeated on Monday 5 September at 2.00pm.
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04-Sep-2011
BBC Proms - 2011: Proms Saturday Matinees: 4. PSM 04 - Tippett, Tavener, Gubaidulina
BBC PROMS SATURDAY MATINEE 2011 Live from Cadogan Hall, London Presented by Christopher Cook Strings and voices are centre-stage in this concert - with a solo cello taking the part of protagonists both human and divine. In Tavener's "Popule meus", the cello represents the all-merciful God in a piece which explores modern man's rejection of the Deity. In Gubaidulina's "Canticle of the Sun", setting the famous hymn to creation by St Francis of Assisi, the cello becomes the saint himself, glorying in the world around him, in life and even death. Added to this mix, the ever life-enhancing music of Sir Michael Tippett - a suite for strings, together with a part-song setting Gerard Manley Hopkins' celebration of a bird in flight, and a motet which commemorates another formed of winged creature - the heavenly host of angels. Tippett: The Windhover Tippett: Plebs angelica Sir John Tavener: Popule meus (UK Premiere) Tippett: Little Music for Strings Sofia Gubaidulina: The Canticle of the Sun Natalie Clein (cello) BBC Singers Britten Sinfonia David Hill (conductor).
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03-Sep-2011
BBC Proms - 2011: Prom 64 - Audience Choice
BBC PROMS 2011 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Catherine Bott An Audience Choice Late Night Prom. The Budapest Festival Orchestra and Music Director Ivan Fischer have a wide repertoire - and in the second of their two Proms tonight they're letting the audience in the Royal Albert Hall choose precisely what they want to hear. So tune in and be surprised! Budapest Festival Orchestra Iván Fischer (conductor).
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03-Sep-2011
BBC Proms - 2011: Prom 63: 2. Mahler
BBC PROMS 2011 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Suzy Klein Ivan Fischer and the Budapest Festival Orchestra perform the usual 4-movement version of Mahler's First Symphony after the interval, and the extra movement Blumine before it. And around Blumine are two devilish dances by their compatriot Franz Liszt - continuing the Proms celebrations of his bicentenary this year. The concert opens with the First Mephisto Waltz (inspired by the demon Mephistopheles who tempts Faust) and the first half ends with Dejan Lazic as the virtuoso soloist in the Totentanz - Dance of Death. It was in Budapest back in 1889 that Mahler - then Director of the Royal Budapest Opera - conducted the premiere of his First Symphony. At that point it had 5 movements, not the four we're used to today: in the 1890s Mahler removed a slow movement that he'd called Blumine - 'bouquet of flowers'. The Budapest Festival Orchestra was only founded in 1983, but it's already universally recognised as one of the world's great orchestras. Conducted throughout its life by Music Director and joint founder Ivan Fischer, the orchestra has built a reputation for shedding new light on old favourites. Mahler: Symphony No. 1 in D major Dejan Lazic (piano) Budapest Festival Orchestra Iván Fischer (conductor) This Prom will be repeated on Sunday 4 September at 2pm.
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03-Sep-2011
BBC Proms - 2011: Prom 63: 1. Liszt, Mahler
BBC PROMS 2011 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Suzy Klein Ivan Fischer and the Budapest Festival Orchestra perform the usual 4-movement version of Mahler's First Symphony after the interval, and the extra movement Blumine before it. And around Blumine are two devilish dances by their compatriot Franz Liszt - continuing the Proms celebrations of his bicentenary this year. The concert opens with the First Mephisto Waltz (inspired by the demon Mephistopheles who tempts Faust) and the first half ends with Dejan Lazic as the virtuoso soloist in the Totentanz - Dance of Death. It was in Budapest back in 1889 that Mahler - then Director of the Royal Budapest Opera - conducted the premiere of his First Symphony. At that point it had 5 movements, not the four we're used to today: in the 1890s Mahler removed a slow movement that he'd called Blumine - 'bouquet of flowers'. The Budapest Festival Orchestra was only founded in 1983, but it's already universally recognised as one of the world's great orchestras. Conducted throughout its life by Music Director and joint founder Ivan Fischer, the orchestra has built a reputation for shedding new light on old favourites. Liszt: Der Tanz in der Dorfschenke (Mephisto Waltz No. 1) Mahler: Blumine Liszt: Totentanz Dejan Lazic (piano) Budapest Festival Orchestra Iván Fischer (conductor) This Prom will be repeated on Sunday 4 September at 2pm.
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01-Sep-2011
BBC Proms - 2011: Proms Composer Portraits: Graham Fitkin
Graham Fitkin, in conversation with Tom Service, discusses his Cello Concerto for Yo-Yo Ma and introduces performances of his chamber works Sciosophy, Hurl and Sinew by musicians from the London Sinfonietta Academy Ensemble.
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01-Sep-2011
BBC Proms - 2011: Prom 61: 2. Beethoven
BBC PROMS 2011 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Martin Handley Featured artist Yo-Yo Ma takes centre stage with a new work conceived especially for him by British composer Graham Fitkin. After the interval, the BBC SO's Principal Guest Conductor, David Robertson, directs the traditional annual Proms performance of Beethoven's Ninth, perhaps the richest, most provocative statement in the symphonic canon. An impressive team of soloists joins the BBC Symphony Chorus to project the finale's optimistic vision of hard-won triumph over adversity. Beethoven: Symphony No. 9 in D minor, 'Choral' Christine Brewer (soprano) Karen Cargill (mezzo-soprano) Toby Spence (tenor) Iain Paterson (bass-baritone) BBC Symphony Chorus Philharmonia Chorus BBC Symphony Orchestra David Robertson (conductor) This Prom will be repeated on Friday 2 September at 2.30pm.
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01-Sep-2011
BBC Proms - 2011: Prom 61: 1. Fitkin
BBC PROMS 2011 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Martin Handley Featured artist Yo-Yo Ma takes centre stage with a new work conceived especially for him by British composer Graham Fitkin. After the interval, the BBC SO's Principal Guest Conductor, David Robertson, directs the traditional annual Proms performance of Beethoven's Ninth, perhaps the richest, most provocative statement in the symphonic canon. An impressive team of soloists joins the BBC Symphony Chorus to project the finale's optimistic vision of hard-won triumph over adversity. Graham Fitkin: Cello Concerto Christine Brewer (soprano) Karen Cargill (mezzo-soprano) Toby Spence (tenor) Iain Paterson (bass-baritone) BBC Symphony Chorus Philharmonia Chorus BBC Symphony Orchestra David Robertson (conductor) This Prom will be repeated on Friday 2 September at 2.30pm.
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31-Aug-2011
BBC Proms - 2011: Prom 60: 2. Bruckner
BBC PROMS 2011 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Tom Service The young French pianist, David Fray, makes his Proms debut playing a grandly imposing Mozart concerto, and Jaap Van Zweden conducts Bruckner's Eighth Symphony - a momentous musical journey from darkness to life. Tonight's conductor, Jaap van Zweden, was the youngest ever concertmaster of the Royal Concertgebouw Orchestra and in that role played almost all the Bruckner symphonies under some of the greatest Bruckner interpreters. Now the conductor of the Netherlands Radio Philharmonic Orchestra, he has been recording his own critically-acclaimed cycle of the Bruckner symphonies. Bruckner: Symphony No. 8 in C minor David Fray (piano) Netherlands Radio Philharmonic Orchestra Jaap van Zweden (conductor) This Prom will be repeated on Thursday 1 September at 2.30pm.
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31-Aug-2011
BBC Proms - 2011: Prom 60: 1. Mozart
BBC PROMS 2011 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Tom Service The young French pianist, David Fray, makes his Proms debut playing a grandly imposing Mozart concerto, and Jaap Van Zweden conducts Bruckner's Eighth Symphony - a momentous musical journey from darkness to life. Tonight's conductor, Jaap van Zweden, was the youngest ever concertmaster of the Royal Concertgebouw Orchestra and in that role played almost all the Bruckner symphonies under some of the greatest Bruckner interpreters. Now the conductor of the Netherlands Radio Philharmonic Orchestra, he has been recording his own critically-acclaimed cycle of the Bruckner symphonies. Mozart: Piano Concerto No. 25 in C major, K503 David Fray (piano) Netherlands Radio Philharmonic Orchestra Jaap van Zweden (conductor) This Prom will be repeated on Thursday 1 September at 2.30pm.
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30-Aug-2011
BBC Proms - 2011: Prom 59: Hooray for Hollywood - Part 2
BBC PROMS 2011 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Suzy Klein John Wilson and his Orchestra are joined by starry soloists and the Maida Vale Singers to celebrate the Golden Age of Hollywood film Musicals, from the earliest days through to the 1960s. Back in the mid 20th century the Hollywood studios attracted the best composers, lyricists and orchestrators to write for their stars. The results are what John Wilson calls "miniature works of art" which were played by orchestras composed of virtuoso players. Matching that, the John Wilson Orchestra is made up of the cream of Britain's orchestral musicians who have wowed Proms audiences with the passion and sheer vivacity of their playing. They perform classics from the 1930s onwards, from films starring Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers including the title numbers from 'Shall We Dance' and 'Top Hat', through the 40s and 50s with numbers from 'Strike up the Band' and 'Guys and Dolls', through to hit musical films from the 60s including 'Gypsy' and 'West Side Story'. Hooray for Hollywood, part 2 Caroline O'Connor (vocalist) Clare Teal (vocalist) Annalene Beechey (vocalist) Matthew Ford (vocalist) Sarah Fox (vocalist) Charles Castronovo (vocalist) The Maida Vale Singers The John Wilson Orchestra John Wilson (conductor).
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30-Aug-2011
BBC Proms - 2011: Prom 59: Hooray for Hollywood - Part 1
BBC PROMS 2011 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Suzy Klein John Wilson and his Orchestra are joined by starry soloists and the Maida Vale Singers to celebrate the Golden Age of Hollywood film Musicals, from the earliest days through to the 1960s. Back in the mid 20th century the Hollywood studios attracted the best composers, lyricists and orchestrators to write for their stars. The results are what John Wilson calls "miniature works of art" which were played by orchestras composed of virtuoso players. Matching that, the John Wilson Orchestra is made up of the cream of Britain's orchestral musicians who have wowed Proms audiences with the passion and sheer vivacity of their playing. They perform classics from the 1930s onwards, from films starring Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers including the title numbers from 'Shall We Dance' and 'Top Hat', through the 40s and 50s with numbers from 'Strike up the Band' and 'Guys and Dolls', through to hit musical films from the 60s including 'Gypsy' and 'West Side Story'. Hooray for Hollywood, part 1 Caroline O'Connor (vocalist) Clare Teal (vocalist) Annalene Beechey (vocalist) Matthew Ford (vocalist) Sarah Fox (vocalist) Charles Castronovo (vocalist) The Maida Vale Singers The John Wilson Orchestra John Wilson (conductor).
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30-Aug-2011
BBC Proms - 2011: Proms Chamber Music: 7. PCM 07 - Fitkin, Gismonti/Carneiro, Rachmaninov
BBC PROMS CHAMBER MUSIC Live from Cadogan Hall, London Presented by Catherine Bott Yo-Yo Ma and Kathryn Stott play in a typically eclectic programme combining the old and the new. Graham Fitkin's L was composed in 2005 for Yo-Yo Ma's 50th birthday and today receives its London premiere. After a Brazilian interlude, this is followed by one of the most romantic works of the cello repertoire: Rachmaninov's Cello Sonata. Graham Fitkin's new Cello Concerto will be performed by Yo-Yo Ma in a Prom later this week. Graham Fitkin: L (London Premiere) Egberto Gismonti/Geraldo Carneiro: Bodas de prata and Quatro cantos Rachmaninov: Cello Sonata in G minor Yo-Yo Ma (cello) Kathryn Stott (piano) This Prom will be repeated on Saturday 3rd September at 2pm.
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29-Aug-2011
BBC Proms - 2011: Prom 58: Mendelssohn's Elijah - Part 2
BBC PROMS 2011 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Penny Gore Mendelssohn's oratorio on the Biblical story of the prophet Elijah has been a favourite with English audiences for over 150 years. Conductor Paul McCreesh breathes new life into it in this performance with period instruments, a raft of enthusiastic choirs and a starry line-up of soloists. Mendelssohn wrote Elijah for the 1846 Birmingham Festival and clearly set out to write a work in the tradition of his revered Baroque predecessors, Bach and Handel. Opinions have differed as to whether he succeeded, with some people finding Elijah full of Victorian sentimentality. Given Paul McCreesh's track record in earlier music, this is the perfect opportunity to hear the work afresh, free of accrued conventions. Mendelssohn: Elijah - Part 2 Rosemary Joshua (soprano) Sarah Connolly (mezzo-soprano) Robert Murray (tenor) Simon Keenlyside (baritone) Taplow Youth Choir Ulster Youth Chamber Choir Chetham's Chamber Choir North East Youth Chorale Wroclaw Philharmonic Choir Gabrieli Consort & Players Paul McCreesh (conductor) This Prom will be repeated on Tuesday 30 August at 2.30pm.
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29-Aug-2011
BBC Proms - 2011: Prom 58: Mendelssohn's Elijah - Part 1
BBC PROMS 2011 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Penny Gore Mendelssohn's oratorio on the Biblical story of the prophet Elijah has been a favourite with English audiences for over 150 years. Conductor Paul McCreesh breathes new life into it in this performance with period instruments, a raft of enthusiastic choirs and a starry line-up of soloists. Mendelssohn wrote Elijah for the 1846 Birmingham Festival and clearly set out to write a work in the tradition of his revered Baroque predecessors, Bach and Handel. Opinions have differed as to whether he succeeded, with some people finding Elijah full of Victorian sentimentality. Given Paul McCreesh's track record in earlier music, this is the perfect opportunity to hear the work afresh, free of accrued conventions. Mendelssohn: Elijah - Part 1 Rosemary Joshua (soprano) Sarah Connolly (mezzo-soprano) Robert Murray (tenor) Simon Keenlyside (baritone) Taplow Youth Choir Ulster Youth Chamber Choir Chetham's Chamber Choir North East Youth Chorale Wroclaw Philharmonic Choir Gabrieli Consort & Players Paul McCreesh (conductor) This Prom will be repeated on Tuesday 30 August at 2.30pm.
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28-Aug-2011
BBC Proms - 2011: Prom 57: 2. Beethoven
BBC PROMS 2011 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Petroc Trelawny Distinguished international guests, the Tonhalle Orchestra Zurich and David Zinman, present top-flight Viennese classics and a post-minimalist work from Sweden. Anders Hillborg's Cold Heat leavens high-art finesse with the rampaging pulse and flow of street music. Quite a contrast with the autumnal poise of Mozart's final piano concerto, tonight featuring Maria João Pires, whose Late Night Chopin recital was a highlight of last year's Proms. After the interval, one of the great pinnacles of Western art music, a work inspired by the ideals of the French Revolution. Beethoven famously struck out the dedication to Napoleon Bonaparte when the latter declared himself Emperor but the heroic musical drama of the 'Eroica' stands for all time. Beethoven: Symphony No. 3 in E flat major, 'Eroica' Maria João Pires (piano) Tonhalle Orchestra Zurich David Zinman (conductor) This Prom will be repeated on Monday 29 August at 2pm.
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28-Aug-2011
BBC Proms - 2011: Prom 57: 1. Hillborg, Mozart
BBC PROMS 2011 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Petroc Trelawny Distinguished international guests, the Tonhalle Orchestra Zurich and David Zinman, present top-flight Viennese classics and a post-minimalist work from Sweden. Anders Hillborg's Cold Heat leavens high-art finesse with the rampaging pulse and flow of street music. Quite a contrast with the autumnal poise of Mozart's final piano concerto, tonight featuring Maria João Pires, whose Late Night Chopin recital was a highlight of last year's Proms. After the interval, one of the great pinnacles of Western art music, a work inspired by the ideals of the French Revolution. Beethoven famously struck out the dedication to Napoleon Bonaparte when the latter declared himself Emperor but the heroic musical drama of the 'Eroica' stands for all time. Anders Hillborg: Cold Heat (UK premiere) Mozart: Piano Concerto No. 27 in B flat major, K595 Maria João Pires (piano) Tonhalle Orchestra Zurich David Zinman (conductor) This Prom will be repeated on Monday 29 August at 2pm.
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28-Aug-2011
BBC Proms - 2011: Proms Saturday Matinees: 3. PSM 03 - Hildegard, Britten, Birtwistle, Wishart
BBC PROMS SATURDAY MATINEES 2011 Live from Cadogan Hall Presented by Christopher Cook Medieval and modern, mystical and material all collide in this Prom which has as its focus songs by the 11th century German Abbess Hildegard of Bingen, performed both in their original versions and as re-imagined in a brand new work by Stevie Wishart. Her BBC commission takes Hildegard's words to create "a sonic tapestry of frayed threads from hundreds of years ago, woven into a new pattern". Completing the programme, two modern works which also have their roots in the medieval world - Britten's cycle wittily juxtaposes sacred and secular lyrics and is one of his last works, while Harrison Birtwistle's setting takes words from a source that was to become a well-spring of inspiration in his later career - the legend of Sir Gawain and the Green Knight - and is one of his earliest published pieces Hildegard of Bingen: Symphonia armonie celestium revelationum - selection Britten: Sacred and Profane Sir Harrison Birtwistle: Narration: A Description of the Passing of a Year Stevie Wishart: Out of This World (BBC Commission; world premiere) BBC Singers Sinfonye Stevie Wishart (director) Robert Hollingworth (conductor).
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27-Aug-2011
BBC Proms - 2011: Prom 56: 2. Mahler
BBC PROMS 2011 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Tom Service Mahler's epic Sixth Symphony, the Tragic, complete with fateful hammer blows: Semyon Bychkov conducts the BBC Symphony Orchestra. Plus an early piano concerto by Richard Strauss. In Semyon Bychkov's second Prom this season, he conducts one of Mahler's most perfectly realised works, 'the only Sixth, despite the "Pastoral" ', in the words of Alban Berg. This is music of exceptional range and power, whose hammer-blows seem to portend the crises in Mahler's own life and the wider world. The curtain-raiser is a mini-concerto with echoes of Brahms and Liszt, especially in its treatment of the piano.Kirill Gerstein, an exceptional artist with roots in jazz as well as the classics, makes his first Proms appearance in the main hall. Mahler: Symphony No. 6 in A minor Kirill Gerstein (piano) BBC Symphony Orchestra Semyon Bychkov (conductor) This Prom will be repeated on Sunday 28th August at 2pm.
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27-Aug-2011
BBC Proms - 2011: Prom 56: 1. Strauss
BBC PROMS 2011 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Tom Service Mahler's epic Sixth Symphony, the Tragic, complete with fateful hammer blows: Semyon Bychkov conducts the BBC Symphony Orchestra. Plus an early piano concerto by Richard Strauss. In Semyon Bychkov's second Prom this season, he conducts one of Mahler's most perfectly realised works, 'the only Sixth, despite the "Pastoral" ', in the words of Alban Berg. This is music of exceptional range and power, whose hammer-blows seem to portend the crises in Mahler's own life and the wider world. The curtain-raiser is a mini-concerto with echoes of Brahms and Liszt, especially in its treatment of the piano.Kirill Gerstein, an exceptional artist with roots in jazz as well as the classics, makes his first Proms appearance in the main hall. R. Strauss: Burleske Kirill Gerstein (piano) BBC Symphony Orchestra Semyon Bychkov (conductor) This Prom will be repeated on Sunday 28th August at 2pm.
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26-Aug-2011
BBC Proms - 2011: Prom 55: 3. Rinaldo - Act 3
BBC PROMS 2011 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Martin Handley Glyndebourne Festival Opera makes its annual visit to the Proms with a new production of Handel's Rinaldo. Handel sets the action in the first Crusade, giving ample opportunity for battle scenes, a love story, abduction, magic, disguise and ultimately, a gracious conquering hero. For Handel this was his first opera written for the London stage, so he was out to impress, filling it with vivid, exciting and poignant arias, including the famous 'Lascia ch'io pianga'. The young knight Rinaldo is in love with Almirena, daughter of Goffredo, the leader of the Crusade. They are laying seige to the Saracens in Jerusalem, who are led by Argante. Argante's lover Armida is a powerful sorceress, and she attacks Rinaldo's forces and abducts Almirena. The period performance specialist Ottavio Dantone directs the Orchestra of the Age of Enlightenment and a superb cast including Sonia Prina in the title role. Handel: Rinaldo Act III Sonia Prina (Rinaldo) Varduhi Abrahamyan (Goffredo) Annett Fritsch (Almirena) Brenda Rae (Armida) Luca Pisaroni (Argante) Tim Mead (Eustazio) William Towers (A Christian Magician) Glyndebourne Festival Opera Orchestra of the Age of Enlightenment Ottavio Dantone (director).
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26-Aug-2011
BBC Proms - 2011: Prom 55: 2. Handel's Rinaldo - Act 2
BBC PROMS 2011 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Martin Handley Glyndebourne Festival Opera makes its annual visit to the Proms with a new production of Handel's Rinaldo. Handel sets the action in the first Crusade, giving ample opportunity for battle scenes, a love story, abduction, magic, disguise and ultimately, a gracious conquering hero. For Handel this was his first opera written for the London stage, so he was out to impress, filling it with vivid, exciting and poignant arias, including the famous 'Lascia ch'io pianga'. The young knight Rinaldo is in love with Almirena, daughter of Goffredo, the leader of the Crusade. They are laying seige to the Saracens in Jerusalem, who are led by Argante. Argante's lover Armida is a powerful sorceress, and she attacks Rinaldo's forces and abducts Almirena. The period performance specialist Ottavio Dantone directs the Orchestra of the Age of Enlightenment and a superb cast including Sonia Prina in the title role. Handel: Rinaldo Act II Sonia Prina (Rinaldo) Varduhi Abrahamyan (Goffredo) Annett Fritsch (Almirena) Brenda Rae (Armida) Luca Pisaroni (Argante) Tim Mead (Eustazio) William Towers (A Christian Magician) Glyndebourne Festival Opera Orchestra of the Age of Enlightenment Ottavio Dantone (director).
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26-Aug-2011
BBC Proms - 2011: Prom 55: 1. Handel's Rinaldo - Act 1
BBC PROMS 2011 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Martin Handley Glyndebourne Festival Opera makes its annual visit to the Proms with a new production of Handel's Rinaldo. Handel sets the action in the first Crusade, giving ample opportunity for battle scenes, a love story, abduction, magic, disguise and ultimately, a gracious conquering hero. For Handel this was his first opera written for the London stage, so he was out to impress, filling it with vivid, exciting and poignant arias, including the famous 'Lascia ch'io pianga'. The young knight Rinaldo is in love with Almirena, daughter of Goffredo, the leader of the Crusade. They are laying seige to the Saracens in Jerusalem, who are led by Argante. Argante's lover Armida is a powerful sorceress, and she attacks Rinaldo's forces and abducts Almirena. The period performance specialist Ottavio Dantone directs the Orchestra of the Age of Enlightenment and a superb cast including Sonia Prina in the title role. Handel: Rinaldo (semi-staged; sung in Italian) Act I Sonia Prina (Rinaldo) Varduhi Abrahamyan (Goffredo) Annett Fritsch (Almirena) Brenda Rae (Armida) Luca Pisaroni (Argante) Tim Mead (Eustazio) William Towers (A Christian Magician) Glyndebourne Festival Opera Orchestra of the Age of Enlightenment Ottavio Dantone (director).
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25-Aug-2011
BBC Proms - 2011: Prom 54 - Liszt
BBC PROMS 2011 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Andrew McGregor. A Late Night Prom celebrating the keyboard genius of anniversary composer, Franz Liszt. French pianist Marc-Andre Hamelin plays a selection of virtuosic works spanning the whole of the composer-pianist's imaginative and emotional world. Liszt: Legend No. 2 (St. Francis of Paola Walking on the Water) Liszt: Fantasia and Fugue on B-A-C-H Liszt: Bénédiction de Dieu dans las solitude Liszt: Venezia e Napoli Marc-André Hamelin (piano).
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25-Aug-2011
BBC Proms - 2011: Prom 53: 2. Tchaikovsky
BBC PROMS 2011 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Louise Fryer Sir Colin Davis conducts an orchestra of brilliant young musicians in a programme which ranges from Stravinsky's so-called 'war symphony' via the heady orientalism of Ravel to the dramatic Fate motif of Tchaikovsky's Fourth Symphony. The leading American mezzo soprano, Susan Graham joins them for Ravel's vision of the Orient, which is by turns sensuous, voluptuous and erotic. Tchaikovsky: Symphony No. 4 in F minor Susan Graham (mezzo-soprano) Gustav Mahler Jugendorchester Sir Colin Davis (conductor) This Prom will be repeated on Wednesday 31st August at 2.30pm.
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25-Aug-2011
BBC Proms - 2011: Prom 53: 1. Stravinsky, Ravel
BBC PROMS 2011 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Louise Fryer Sir Colin Davis conducts an orchestra of brilliant young musicians in a programme which ranges from Stravinsky's so-called 'war symphony' via the heady orientalism of Ravel to the dramatic Fate motif of Tchaikovsky's Fourth Symphony. The leading American mezzo soprano, Susan Graham joins them for Ravel's vision of the Orient, which is by turns sensuous, voluptuous and erotic. Stravinsky: Symphony in Three Movements Ravel: Shéhérazade Susan Graham (mezzo-soprano) Gustav Mahler Jugendorchester Sir Colin Davis (conductor) This Prom will be repeated on Wednesday 31st August at 2.30pm.
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24-Aug-2011
BBC Proms - 2011: Prom 52: Dutilleux: Slava's Fanfare. Prokofiev: 2. Symphony No 5
BBC PROMS 2011 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Suzy Klein Valery Gergiev and his London Symphony Orchestra feature pairings of works by Prokofiev and Dutilleux. Prokofiev is represented by two very contrasted symphonies, the 1st and the 5th, and Dutilleux by a fanfare that he composed for Rostropovich to conduct and a concerto that he wrote for the great American violinist Isaac Stern to play. Gergiev always has something special to say about Prokofiev and the very different worlds of the Haydn-inspired 1st Symphony (the 'Classical') and the wartime 5th (written in a single month in 1944) are bound to bring out the best in him. Orchestra and conductor are joined by the virtuoso Greek violinist Leonidas Kavakos for Dutilleux's nocturnal concerto, whose title translates as 'The Tree of Dreams'. Dutilleux celebrated his 95th birthday earlier this year and his music celebrates what he calls 'the joy of sound'. That joy is certainly apparent in the short fanfare that he composed for Mstislav Rostropovich's 70th birthday, whose spatial arrangement of instruments should suit the Royal Albert Hall perfectly. Henri Dutilleux: Slava's Fanfare Prokofiev: Symphony No. 5 in B flat major Leonidas Kavakos (violin) London Symphony Orchestra Valery Gergiev (conductor) This Prom will be repeated on Friday 26th August at 2.30pm.
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24-Aug-2011
BBC Proms - 2011: Prom 52: Prokofiev: Symphony No 1. Dutilleux: 1. L'arbre des songes
BBC PROMS 2011 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Suzy Klein Valery Gergiev and his London Symphony Orchestra feature pairings of works by Prokofiev and Dutilleux. Prokofiev is represented by two very contrasted symphonies, the 1st and the 5th, and Dutilleux by a fanfare that he composed for Rostropovich to conduct and a concerto that he wrote for the great American violinist Isaac Stern to play. Gergiev always has something special to say about Prokofiev and the very different worlds of the Haydn-inspired 1st Symphony (the 'Classical') and the wartime 5th (written in a single month in 1944) are bound to bring out the best in him. Orchestra and conductor are joined by the virtuoso Greek violinist Leonidas Kavakos for Dutilleux's nocturnal concerto, whose title translates as 'The Tree of Dreams'. Dutilleux celebrated his 95th birthday earlier this year and his music celebrates what he calls 'the joy of sound'. That joy is certainly apparent in the short fanfare that he composed for Mstislav Rostropovich's 70th birthday, whose spatial arrangement of instruments should suit the Royal Albert Hall perfectly. Prokofiev: Symphony No. 1 in D major, "Classical" Henri Dutilleux: L'arbre des songes Leonidas Kavakos (violin) London Symphony Orchestra Valery Gergiev (conductor) This Prom will be repeated on Friday 26th August at 2.30pm.
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24-Aug-2011
BBC Proms - 2011: Prom 51: 2. Brahms
BBC PROMS 2011 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Penny Gore Wagner, Liszt and Brahms's First Symphony from Thomas Dausgaard and the BBC Symphony Orchestra, plus the world premiere of Kevin Volans's Piano Concerto for soloist Barry Douglas. After the familiar strains of Wagner's rousing overture there's a real rarity: Liszt's La notte is an extended version of a piano piece from the Années de pèlerinage to which the composer added a middle section recalling his Hungarian roots. A late work that he wanted played at his own funeral, it is new to the Proms. So too is Kevin Volans's concerto, hot off the press and written for tonight's soloist. Expect the unexpected from a creative figure born in South Africa but now resident in Ireland whose output resists compartmentalisation. The long shadow of Ludwig van Beethoven inhibited Brahms's early attempts at symphonic writing but he surpassed all expectations with the magnificence of his First Symphony. Brahms: Symphony No. 1 in C minor Barry Douglas (piano) BBC Symphony Orchestra Thomas Dausgaard (conductor) This Prom will be repeated on Thursday 25th August at 2.30pm.
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23-Aug-2011
BBC Proms - 2011: Proms Composer Portraits: Kevin Volans
PROMS PLUS PORTRAIT Kevin Volans, in conversation with Martin Handley, discusses the world premiere of his Piano Concerto No. 3 and introduces performances of his chamber works, including 1,000 Bars, Asanga and his 10th String Quartet by musicians from the Royal Academy of Music.
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23-Aug-2011
BBC Proms - 2011: Prom 51: 1. Wagner, Liszt, Volans
BBC PROMS 2011 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Penny Gore Wagner, Liszt and Brahms's First Symphony from Thomas Dausgaard and the BBC Symphony Orchestra, plus the world premiere of Kevin Volans's Piano Concerto for soloist Barry Douglas. After the familiar strains of Wagner's rousing overture there's a real rarity: Liszt's La notte is an extended version of a piano piece from the Années de pèlerinage to which the composer added a middle section recalling his Hungarian roots. A late work that he wanted played at his own funeral, it is new to the Proms. So too is Kevin Volans's concerto, hot off the press and written for tonight's soloist. Expect the unexpected from a creative figure born in South Africa but now resident in Ireland whose output resists compartmentalisation. The long shadow of Ludwig van Beethoven inhibited Brahms's early attempts at symphonic writing but he surpassed all expectations with the magnificence of his First Symphony. Wagner: The Mastersingers of Nuremberg - Overture Liszt: La Notte Kevin Volans: Piano Concerto No. 3 (BBC Commission; World premiere) Barry Douglas (piano) BBC Symphony Orchestra Thomas Dausgaard (conductor) This Prom will be repeated on Thursday 25th August at 2.30pm.
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23-Aug-2011
BBC Proms - 2011: Proms Chamber Music: 6. PCM 06 - Martinu, Dutilleux, Prokofiev
BBC PROMS CHAMBER MUSIC 2011 Live from Cadogan Hall, London Presented by Catherine Bott The internationally renowned flautist Emmanuel Pahud is a featured artist at this year's Proms, and he brings a chamber programme to Cadogan Hall with his regular pianist, Eric Le Sage. Three contrasting works share the same genesis, all being composed in the early 1940s under the shadow of World War II, but all have a sunny nature. Martinu's sonorous work was completed in America after he fled his native Czechoslovakia, and it has a seriousness at its core. Prokofiev's magnificent sonata was written in Moscow, and is one of his classic works - both brilliantly virtuosic and warmly lyrical. Dutilleux's Sonatine, an early work in his long and disinguished career, follows in the footsteps of his predecessor Debussy. Martinu: Flute Sonata Henri Dutilleux: Sonatine Prokofiev: Flute Sonata Emmanuel Pahud (flute) Eric Le Sage (piano) This Prom will be repeated on Saturday 27th August at 2pm.
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22-Aug-2011
BBC Proms - 2011: Prom 50: 2. Mozart
BBC PROMS 2011 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Sara Mohr-Pietsch Continuing the Proms Choral Sundays with Mozart's tragic masterpiece which was composed in the final months of his life and left unfinished at his death. Also on the programme is the young Benjamin Britten's tribute to his teacher, Frank Bridge, and a new work by Colin Matthews which arose out of what the composer describes as an obsession with the First World War. The work sets texts from the poet, Christopher Reid's Airs and Ditties of No Man's Land which have as their scenario the image of the corpses of two soldiers hanging on the barbed wire of no-man's-land. As they do so, scraps of song, memories and reflections pass through their minds. Stephen Layton conducts Polyphony, the group that he founded in 1986, along with the City of London Sinfonia of which he is now the Principal Conductor. Mozart (compl. Süssmayr): Requiem in D minor Emma Bell (soprano) Renata Pokupic (mezzo-soprano) Ian Bostridge (tenor) Roderick Williams (baritone) James Rutherford (bass) Polyphony City of London Sinfonia Stephen Layton (conductor) This Prom will be repeated on Tuesday 23rd August at 2.30pm.
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22-Aug-2011
BBC Proms - 2011: Prom 50: 1. Britten, Matthews
BBC PROMS 2011 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Sara Mohr-Pietsch Continuing the Proms Choral Sundays with Mozart's tragic masterpiece which was composed in the final months of his life and left unfinished at his death. Also on the programme is the young Benjamin Britten's tribute to his teacher, Frank Bridge, and a new work by Colin Matthews which arose out of what the composer describes as an obsession with the First World War. The work sets texts from the poet, Christopher Reid's Airs and Ditties of No Man's Land which have as their scenario the image of the corpses of two soldiers hanging on the barbed wire of no-man's-land. As they do so, scraps of song, memories and reflections pass through their minds. Stephen Layton conducts Polyphony, the group that he founded in 1986, along with the City of London Sinfonia of which he is now the Principal Conductor. Britten: Variations on a Theme of Frank Bridge Colin Matthews: No Man's Land (world premiere) Emma Bell (soprano) Renata Pokupic (mezzo-soprano) Ian Bostridge (tenor) Roderick Williams (baritone) James Rutherford (bass) Polyphony City of London Sinfonia Stephen Layton (conductor) This Prom will be repeated on Tuesday 23rd August at 2.30pm.
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21-Aug-2011
BBC Proms - 2011: Prom 49: 2. Brahms - Symphony No 4
BBC PROMS 2011 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Louise Fryer Bernard Haitink conducts the Chamber Orchestra of Europe and pianist Emanuel Ax in music by Brahms. In their second concert of Brahms's masterworks at this year's Proms, they open with a work long central to Emanuel Ax's repertoire. Brahms's Second Piano Concerto is on a grand Romantic scale and makes huge technical demands on the soloist. After the interval, the composer's astonishing final symphony, where the balance between expressiveness and structural control is most perfectly maintained. Brahms: Symphony No. 4 in E minor Emanuel Ax (piano) Chamber Orchestra of Europe Bernard Haitink (conductor) This Prom will be repeated on Monday 22nd August at 2pm.
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21-Aug-2011
BBC Proms - 2011: Prom 49: 1. Brahms - Piano Concerto No 2
Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Louise Fryer Bernard Haitink conducts the Chamber Orchestra of Europe and pianist Emanuel Ax in music by Brahms. In their second concert of Brahms's masterworks at this year's Proms, they open with a work long central to Emanuel Ax's repertoire. Brahms's Second Piano Concerto is on a grand Romantic scale and makes huge technical demands on the soloist. After the interval, the composer's astonishing final symphony, where the balance between expressiveness and structural control is most perfectly maintained. Brahms: Piano Concerto No.2 in B flat major Emanuel Ax (piano) Chamber Orchestra of Europe Bernard Haitink (conductor) This Prom will be repeated on Monday 22nd August at 2pm.
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21-Aug-2011
BBC Proms - 2011: Proms Saturday Matinees: 2. PSM 02 - Maxwell Davies, Aperghis, Birtwistle
BBC PROMS SATURDAY MATINEES 2011 Live from the Cadogan Hall Presented by Christopher Cook A concert of contemporary musical encounters. The new piano concerto by Greek-born French composer Georges Aperghis takes its inspiration from the technique of filming dialogue with shot and reverse shot, while Harrison Birtwistle vividly retells the Biblical story of Jacob wrestling with the Angel. Meanwhile, Peter Maxwell Davies reflects on a sonnet by Michelangelo in a work specially composed for the BBC Singers. David Atherton conducts the London Sinfonietta and BBC Singers with Nicolas Hodges, a pianist who excels in cutting-edge contemporary music. Andrew West and Jeffrey Lloyd-Roberts take the challenging parts of Jacob and the Angel. Sir Peter Maxwell Davies: Il rozzo martello Georges Aperghis: Champ-Contrechamp (BBC Commission; World Premiere) Sir Harrison Birtwistle: Angel Fighter (UK premiere) Jeffrey Lloyd-Roberts (tenor) Andrew Watts (Counter tenor) Nicolas Hodges (Piano) BBC Singers London Sinfonietta David Atherton (conductor).
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20-Aug-2011
BBC Proms - 2011: Prom 48 - Brahms, Schumann
BBC PROMS 2011 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Petroc Trelawny The BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra and their Associate Guest Conductor, Andrew Manze, continue the celebration of Brahms in this late night concert with a richly romantic programme with pianist Angela Hewitt. Angela Hewitt starts the concert on solo piano with the first two of the popular Op. 117 Intermezzos by Brahms written in 1892. Inspired by a Scottish folk song the first's beautiful melody is concealed in an inner part, and the second intermezzo uses arpeggios as a texture. They are two sad lullabies and some of the last piano music Brahms wrote before he died in 1897. At the beginning of Brahms' life, in 1853 he met Robert Schumann who became his musical father figure during their short but intense friendship. Schumann's Introduction and Allegro was written in 1849 just before Brahms met the Schumanns and was premiered with Clara Schumann at the keyboard. It was later dedicated to Brahms, and Clara was to became the great love of Brahms's life. Finally we observe Brahms through the prism of an admirer - Arnold Schoenberg - who arranged his piano quartet for orchestra in 1937 and highlighted the influence that Brahms had in music travelling from Bach and Beethoven, through to the music composed in the twentieth century. Brahms: Three intermezzos, Op. 117 - Nos. 1 & 2 Schumann: Introduction and Concert Allegro, Op. 134 Brahm, Arr. Schoenberg: Piano Quartet No. 1 in G minor Angela Hewitt (piano) BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra Andrew Manze (conductor).
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20-Aug-2011
BBC Proms - 2011: Prom 47: 2. Piano Concerto No 1
BBC PROMS 2011 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Martin Handley The Chamber Orchestra of Europe celebrates its 30th anniversary this year, and in tonight's Prom, with the conductor Bernard Haitink, focuses on the expressive musical world of Brahms. The Third Symphony is generally upbeat, but the energy of the final movement floats away to a quiet and elusive end. The First Piano Concerto is bound up with Brahms's intense friendship with Robert Schumann and his wife Clara, and his sense of loss at Schumann's tragic downward spiral into madness. Emanuel Ax is the soloist, a pianist renowned for his sensitive interpretations, and he rejoins the orchestra for more Brahms tomorrow. Haitink, a distinguished interpreter of Brahms, admires the COE's ability to play together like chamber musicians. Brahms: Piano Concerto No. 1 in D minor Emanuel Ax (piano) Chamber Orchestra of Europe Bernard Haitink (conductor) This Prom will be repeated on Wednesday 24th August at 2.25pm.
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20-Aug-2011
BBC Proms - 2011: Prom 47: 1. Symphony No 3
BBC PROMS 2011 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Martin Handley The Chamber Orchestra of Europe celebrates its 30th anniversary this year, and in tonight's Prom, with the conductor Bernard Haitink, focuses on the expressive musical world of Brahms. The Third Symphony is generally upbeat, but the energy of the final movement floats away to a quiet and elusive end. The First Piano Concerto is bound up with Brahms's intense friendship with Robert Schumann and his wife Clara, and his sense of loss at Schumann's tragic downward spiral into madness. Emanuel Ax is the soloist, a pianist renowned for his sensitive interpretations, and he rejoins the orchestra for more Brahms tomorrow. Haitink, a distinguished interpreter of Brahms, admires the COE's ability to play together like chamber musicians. Brahms: Symphony No. 3 in F major Emanuel Ax (piano) Chamber Orchestra of Europe Bernard Haitink (conductor) This Prom will be repeated on Wednesday 24th August at 2.25pm.
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19-Aug-2011
BBC Proms - 2011: Prom 46 - Viktoria Mullova, Matthew Barley
BBC PROMS 2011 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Andrew McGregor A concert celebrating the special partnership of Russian-born violinist Viktoria Mullova and her husband, British cellist Matthew Barley. Together with three friends they explore folk, gypsy and jazz-inpired music that encompasses a masterpiece by the Hungarian composer Zoltan Kodaly and the worlds of the Modern Jazz Quartet and the American jazz-rock group Weather Report. As well as making an intriguing programme, the music in the concert says something about Viktoria Mullova herself. According to her husband, she 'loves simplicity and emotional directness and power, as well as virtuosity that comes from the heart and for the heart (as opposed to showing off)'. Bratsch, Arr. Barley: Bi Lovengo John Lewis/Bratch, Arr. Barley: Django Kodaly: Duo, Op. 7 Joe Zawinul, Arr. Barley: Pursuit of the Woman with the Feathered Hat Matthew Barley: Yura Joe Zawinul, Arr. Barley: The Peasant DuOud, Arr. Barley: For Nedim (for Nadia) Viktoria Mullova (violin) Matthew Barley (cello) Julian Joseph (piano) Paul Clarvis (percussion) Sam Walton (percussion).
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19-Aug-2011
BBC Proms - 2011: Proms Composer Portraits: Thomas Larcher
PROMS PLUS PORTRAIT Andrew McGregor talks to composer Thomas Larcher, whose Double Concerto for violin, cello and orchestra was given its world premiere in this evening's Prom The composer also introduces performances of his Antennen- Requiem für H. and extracts from his Cello Sonata and Kraken by musicians from the Royal Northern College of Music.
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19-Aug-2011
BBC Proms - 2011: Prom 45: 2. Bruckner
BBC PROMS 2011 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Katie Derham The BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra and principal guest conductor Ilan Volkov are joined by Proms featured artists, Viktoria Mullova and Matthew Barley, for the world premiere of Thomas Larcher's BBC Commission. The second half of the concert is dedicated to Bruckner's vast architectural masterpiece - his fifth symphony. The leading Austrian composer Thomas Larcher's first double concerto is predominantly solemn and sacred but very rhythmical. It utilises a concertino group as well as the two soloists and the orchestra to bring an added dimension of colour. The cellist Matthew Barley has helped Larcher incorporate improvisation and free time in the piece, building on aspects of rhythm, but Larcher says there is still a grounding in Mozart, Bach and Beethoven. Ilan Volkov is a renowned interpreter of Bruckner's Music. The 5th Symphony is one of his longest symphonies and, arguably, his most complex work. A huge challenge to perform, it is also a Symphony which embodies a unique atmosphere of spiritual exaltation in a dramatic struggle to overcome the pain and frustration of life. Bruckner: Symphony No. 5 in B flat major (ed. Nowak) Viktoria Mullova (violin) Matthew Barley (cello) Christof Dienz (electric zither) Martin Brandlmayr (percussion) Luka Juhart (accordian) Thomas Larcher (prepared piano) BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra Ilan Volkov (conductor) This Prom will be repeated on Sunday 21st August at 2pm.
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19-Aug-2011
BBC Proms - 2011: Prom 45: 1. Larcher
BBC PROMS 2011 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Katie Derham The BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra and principal guest conductor Ilan Volkov are joined by Proms featured artists, Viktoria Mullova and Matthew Barley, for the world premiere of Thomas Larcher's BBC Commission. The second half of the concert is dedicated to Bruckner's vast architectural masterpiece - his fifth symphony. The leading Austrian composer Thomas Larcher's first double concerto is predominantly solemn and sacred but very rhythmical. It utilises a concertino group as well as the two soloists and the orchestra to bring an added dimension of colour. The cellist Matthew Barley has helped Larcher incorporate improvisation and free time in the piece, building on aspects of rhythm, but Larcher says there is still a grounding in Mozart, Bach and Beethoven. Ilan Volkov is a renowned interpreter of Bruckner's Music. The 5th Symphony is one of his longest symphonies and, arguably, his most complex work. A huge challenge to perform, it is also a Symphony which embodies a unique atmosphere of spiritual exaltation in a dramatic struggle to overcome the pain and frustration of life. Thomas Larcher: Concerto for Violin, Cello and Orchestra (BBC commission; world premiere) Viktoria Mullova (violin) Matthew Barley (cello) Christof Dienz (electric zither) Martin Brandlmayr (percussion) Luka Juhart (accordian) Thomas Larcher (prepared piano) BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra Ilan Volkov (conductor) This Prom will be repeated on Sunday 21st August at 2pm.
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18-Aug-2011
BBC Proms - 2011: Prom 44: 2. Stravinsky, Tchaikovsky
BBC PROMS 2011 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Katie Derham An all-Russian programme, beginning with a four-movement suite taken from the first ballet score that Shostakovich wrote - The Age of Gold. The ballet itself was a failure - unlike the other dance work represented in this evening's concert, Petrushka. It is one of the great 20th-century ballets and its story of a puppet who comes to life elicited a colourful, masterly and hugely influential score from the young Stravinsky. The final music on the programme is by one of Stravinsky's heroes, Tchaikovsky. His special brand of passion, energy and lyricism is a perfect match for the story of Francesca da Rimini - the heroine of a murderous tale from Dante's Divine Comedy. The relationship between London's Philharmonia Orchestra and Principal Conductor and Artistic Director Esa-Pekka Salonen has deepened and matured in the three seasons that they've been together. They bring the fruits of this relationship to the Proms, including Shostakovich's 1st Violin Concerto with former Radio 3 New Generation Artist Lisa Batiashvili as soloist. Stravinsky: Petrushka (1947 version) Tchaikovsky: Francesca da Rimini Lisa Batiashvili (violin) Philharmonic Orchestra Esa-Pekka Salonen (conductor) This Prom will be repeated on Friday 19th August 2011 at 2.20pm.
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18-Aug-2011
BBC Proms - 2011: Prom 44: 1. Shostakovich
BBC PROMS 2011 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Katie Derham An all-Russian programme, beginning with a four-movement suite taken from the first ballet score that Shostakovich wrote - The Age of Gold. The ballet itself was a failure - unlike the other dance work represented in this evening's concert, Petrushka. It is one of the great 20th-century ballets and its story of a puppet who comes to life elicited a colourful, masterly and hugely influential score from the young Stravinsky. The final music on the programme is by one of Stravinsky's heroes, Tchaikovsky. His special brand of passion, energy and lyricism is a perfect match for the story of Francesca da Rimini - the heroine of a murderous tale from Dante's Divine Comedy. The relationship between London's Philharmonia Orchestra and Principal Conductor and Artistic Director Esa-Pekka Salonen has deepened and matured in the three seasons that they've been together. They bring the fruits of this relationship to the Proms, including Shostakovich's 1st Violin Concerto with former Radio 3 New Generation Artist Lisa Batiashvili as soloist. Shostakovich: The Age of Gold - Suite Shostakovich: Violin Concerto No. 1 in A minor Lisa Batiashvili (violin) Philharmonic Orchestra Esa-Pekka Salonen (conductor) This Prom will be repeated on Friday 19th August 2011 at 2.20pm.
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17-Aug-2011
BBC Proms - 2011: Prom 43: 3. Prokofiev
BBC PROMS 2011 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Martin Handley Andrew Litton and the RPO perform a programme by composers who have something, or someone, in common: Boston Symphony Orchestra conductor Serge Koussevitzky. Copland's Fanfare was later incorporated into his Third Symphony, written for the Koussevitzky Music Foundation, which also commissioned Bartók at a time when he found himself in grave financial difficulty. Tonight, Yuja Wang makes her Proms debut in his fiendishly difficult Concerto No 2. Koussevitzky also championed Barber's music in the 1940s, and the original version of Prokofiev's Fourth Symphony was commissioned for the BSO's 50th anniversary and premiered under him. Prokofiev: Symphony No. 4 (revised version, 1947) Yuja Wang (piano) Royal Philharmonic Orchestra Andrew Litton (conductor) This prom will be repeated on Thursday 18th August at 2.15pm.
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17-Aug-2011
BBC Proms - 2011: Prom 43: 2. Barber, Bartok
BBC PROMS 2011 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Martin Handley Andrew Litton and the RPO perform a programme by composers who have something, or someone, in common: Boston Symphony Orchestra conductor Serge Koussevitzky. Copland's Fanfare was later incorporated into his Third Symphony, written for the Koussevitzky Music Foundation, which also commissioned Bartók at a time when he found himself in grave financial difficulty. Tonight, Yuja Wang makes her Proms debut in his fiendishly difficult Concerto No 2. Koussevitzky also championed Barber's music in the 1940s, and the original version of Prokofiev's Fourth Symphony was commissioned for the BSO's 50th anniversary and premiered under him. Barber: Adagio for Strings Bartok: Piano Concerto No. 2 Yuja Wang (piano) Royal Philharmonic Orchestra Andrew Litton (conductor) This prom will be repeated on Thursday 18th August at 2.15pm.
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17-Aug-2011
BBC Proms - 2011: Prom 43: 1. Copland, Bax
BBC PROMS 2011 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Martin Handley Andrew Litton and the RPO perform a programme by composers who have something, or someone, in common: Boston Symphony Orchestra conductor Serge Koussevitzky. Copland's Fanfare was later incorporated into his Third Symphony, written for the Koussevitzky Music Foundation, which also commissioned Bartók at a time when he found himself in grave financial difficulty. Tonight, Yuja Wang makes her Proms debut in his fiendishly difficult Concerto No 2. Koussevitzky also championed Barber's music in the 1940s, and the original version of Prokofiev's Fourth Symphony was commissioned for the BSO's 50th anniversary and premiered under him. Copland: Fanfare for the Common Man Bax: Symphony No. 2 Yuja Wang (piano) Royal Philharmonic Orchestra Andrew Litton (conductor) This prom will be repeated on Thursday 18th August at 2.15pm.
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16-Aug-2011
BBC Proms - 2011: Prom 42: 2. Swan Lake - Acts 2 and 3
BBC PROMS 2011 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Sara Mohr-Pietsch Valery Gergiev brings the Orchestra of the Mariinsky Theatre to the Proms with music from their homeland. Two years ago their performance of Tchaikovsky's ballet-score The Sleeping Beauty was a highlight of the season. This year they bring another of Tchaikovsky's great dance works, Swan Lake. Swan Lake tells the story of Prince Siegfried and his love for the Swan Queen, Odette. She and her swan retinue are human beings under the spell of an evil sorcerer - swans by day, human beings by night. The story of how the terrible spell is eventually broken and Siegfried and Odette united for ever is one of the most romantic and passionate tales told in the world of ballet. Tchaikovsky's score is both vivid and subtle, especially when, as this evening, it is heard complete, rather than in the more often heard suite. Tchaikovsky: Swan Lake, Acts 2 and 3 Orchestra of the Mariinsky Theatre Valery Gergiev (conductor).
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16-Aug-2011
BBC Proms - 2011: Prom 42: 1. Swan Lake - Act 1
BBC PROMS 2011 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Sara Mohr-Pietsch Valery Gergiev brings the Orchestra of the Mariinsky Theatre to the Proms with music from their homeland. Two years ago their performance of Tchaikovsky's ballet-score The Sleeping Beauty was a highlight of the season. This year they bring another of Tchaikovsky's great dance works, Swan Lake. Swan Lake tells the story of Prince Siegfried and his love for the Swan Queen, Odette. She and her swan retinue are human beings under the spell of an evil sorcerer - swans by day, human beings by night. The story of how the terrible spell is eventually broken and Siegfried and Odette united for ever is one of the most romantic and passionate tales told in the world of ballet. Tchaikovsky's score is both vivid and subtle, especially when, as this evening, it is heard complete, rather than in the more often heard suite. Tchaikovsky: Swan Lake, Act 1 Orchestra of the Mariinsky Theatre Valery Gergiev (conductor).
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16-Aug-2011
BBC Proms - 2011: Proms Chamber Music: 5. PCM 05 - Nicholas Daniel, Tom Poster, Aronowitz Ensemble
BBC PROMS CHAMBER MUSIC 2011 From the Cadogan Hall Presented by Catherine Bott Another chance to hear a concert which pairs youthful works by English composers Frank Bridge and his pupil Benjamin Britten. Written when the composer was just 19, Britten's Phantasy oboe quartet is full of flamboyant and lyrical writing which today's oboist Nicholas Daniel describes as "a virtuoso piece in every respect". Britten honoured his mentor with two sets of variations - the famous set for string orchestra - and this newly-rediscovered piano piece. Bridge's own Piano Quintet was written before the events of the First World War cast a shadow over his creative outlook. Britten: Phantasy for oboe and string trio Bridge: Three Idylls for string quartet - No. 2 Britten: Piano Variations on a Theme of Frank Bridge (London premiere) Bridge: Piano Quintet Nicholas Daniel (oboe) Tom Poster (piano) Aronowitz Ensemble.
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15-Aug-2011
BBC Proms - 2011: Prom 41: 2. Purcell
BBC PROMS 2011 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Christopher Cook Continuing Proms Choral Sundays: Jiri Belohlavek conducts a recreation of an all-Britten concert originally conducted in 1963 by the composer, but with a contemporary twist provided by Joby Talbot, revisiting Britten's great hero Purcell. For Britten, the Spring Symphony represented 'the reawakening of the earth and life', while the Cantata Misericordium tells the Biblical story of the Good Samaritan. Britten: Spring Symphony Amanda Roocroft (soprano) Christine Rice (mezzo-soprano) Alan Oke (tenor) Leigh Melrose (baritone) Trinity Boys Choir BBC Singers BBC Symphony Chorus BBC Symphony Orchestra Mark Wigglesworth (conductor) This prom will be repeated on Wednesday 17th August at 2.15pm.
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15-Aug-2011
BBC Proms - 2011: Prom 41: 1. Purcell
BBC PROMS 2011 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Christopher Cook Continuing Proms Choral Sundays: Jiri Belohlavek conducts a recreation of an all-Britten concert originally conducted in 1963 by the composer, but with a contemporary twist provided by Joby Talbot, revisiting Britten's great hero Purcell. For Britten, the Spring Symphony represented 'the reawakening of the earth and life', while the Cantata Misericordium tells the Biblical story of the Good Samaritan. Purcell, Arr. Joby Talbot: Chacony in G Minor (BBC commission; World Premiere) Britten: Cantata Misericordium Britten: Sinfonia da Requiem Amanda Roocroft (soprano) Christine Rice (mezzo-soprano) Alan Oke (tenor) Leigh Melrose (baritone) Trinity Boys Choir BBC Singers BBC Symphony Chorus BBC Symphony Orchestra Mark Wigglesworth (conductor) This prom will be repeated on Wednesday 17th August at 2.15pm.
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14-Aug-2011
BBC Proms - 2011: Prom 40: Comedy Prom - Part 2
BBC PROMS 2011 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Louise Fryer Maverick Australian comedian Tim Minchin brings his own inimitable style of musical fun to the Royal Albert Hall as he hosts this first ever Comedy Prom. He'll be joined by pianist Danny Driver, who takes on both Reizenstein's Concerto popolare and conductor Andrew Litton. Soprano Susan Bullock, cabaret duo Kit and the Widow, and conducting sensation Sue Perkins all make an appearance alongside the ever versatile BBC Concert Orchestra and MD Jules Buckley. Part Two Performers to include: Tim Minchin Sue Perkins Kit and the Widow Susan Bullock (soprano) Danny Driver (piano) Beardyman The Boy with Tape on his Face Doc Brown The Mongrels BBC Concert Orchestra Jules Buckley (conductor) Andrew Litton (conductor).
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14-Aug-2011
BBC Proms - 2011: Prom 40: Comedy Prom - Part 1
BBC PROMS 2011 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Louise Fryer Maverick Australian comedian Tim Minchin brings his own inimitable style of musical fun to the Royal Albert Hall as he hosts this first ever Comedy Prom. He'll be joined by pianist Danny Driver, who takes on both Reizenstein's Concerto popolare and conductor Andrew Litton. Soprano Susan Bullock, cabaret duo Kit and the Widow, and conducting sensation Sue Perkins all make an appearance alongside the ever versatile BBC Concert Orchestra and MD Jules Buckley. Part One Performers to include: Tim Minchin Sue Perkins Kit and the Widow Susan Bullock (soprano) Danny Driver (piano) Beardyman The Boy with Tape on his Face Doc Brown The Mongrels BBC Concert Orchestra Jules Buckley (conductor) Andrew Litton (conductor).
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14-Aug-2011
BBC Proms - 2011: Proms Saturday Matinees: 1. PSM 01 - Bennett, Dutilleux, Maconchy
BBC PROMS SATURDAY MATINEES 2011 Live from the Cadogan Hall Presented by Christopher Cook Sir Richard Rodney Bennett, one of Britain's most respected and versatile musicians, celebrates his 75th birthday this year and the first of this season's contemporary music matinees pays tribute to his distinctive creative voice and to two of his favourite composers Sir Richard Rodney Bennett: Dream Dancing Henri Dutilleux: Les citations Maconchy: Romanza Sir Richard Rodney Bennett: Jazz Calendar Paul Silverthorne (viola) London Sinfonietta Nicholas Collon (conductor).
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13-Aug-2011
BBC Proms - 2011: Prom 39 - Spaghetti Western Orchestra
BBC PROMS 2011 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Charles Hazlewood The inventive multi-taskers of the Spaghetti Western Orchestra perform the epic scores of Ennio Morricone from the films of Sergio Leone. The Australian group recreates Morricone's classic soundtracks from films such as 'Once Upon a Time in the West' and 'For a Few Dollars More' with only five players by using extraordinary virtuosity on a variety of instruments conventional and rather less so. "We really embraced the absurdity of a bunch of Aussie guys trying to do what Morricone did with a cast of hundreds", so expect new uses for an asthma inhaler and a cornflake packet as well as a rich vein of humour. Spaghetti Western Orchestra.
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13-Aug-2011
BBC Proms - 2011: Proms Plus: BBC Proms Inspire Young Composers' Concert
BBC Proms Inspire Young Composers' Concert The Aurora Orchestra, conducted by Nicholas Collon, performs the winning entries from this year's Proms Inspire Young Composers' Competition. Now in its thirteenth year, the BBC Proms Inspire Young Composers' Competition continues to provide a platform for budding composers across the UK, providing what most composers only dream of - the chance to have their music played by professional musicians and broadcast on BBC Radio 3. Entries of all genres and for any instrumentation are welcomed and each composition is judged on the following criteria - compositional idea, originality, creativity and appropriate technical ability. The only rules are that entries should last no longer than five minutes and be scored so that other musicians can perform them.
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13-Aug-2011
BBC Proms - 2011: Prom 38: 2. John Williams, Johnny Greenwood, John Barry
BBC PROMS 2011 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Katie Derham The BBC Concert Orchestra and principal conductor Keith Lockhart are joined by violinist Chloe Hanslip in this concert of music for the silver screen from both sides of the Atlantic. Celebrating the centenary of his birth there's a tribute to the film composers' composer Bernard Herrmann, alongside music by today's greatest living exponent John Williams. Passages from Henry V accompany William Walton's iconic music, and there's a tribute to the late John Barry with two of his most famous themes. With additional music by Ennio Morricone, Richard Rodney Bennett at 75, and a brand new suite from last year's film Norwegian Wood - music by BBC Concert Orchestra's composer in residence, Jonny Greenwood - this promises to be a spectacular celebration of the best of classic and modern film music. John Williams: Music from Star Wars, Schindler's List and Harry Potter Jonny Greenwood arr. Robert Ziegler: Norwegian Wood - suite (BBC Commission, World Premiere) Sir Richard Rodney Bennett: Murder on the Orient Express - suite Barry: Out of Africa - Love Theme Various: Music from the James Bond films Chloë Hanslip (violin) BBC Concert Orchestra Keith Lockhart (conductor).
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13-Aug-2011
BBC Proms - 2011: Prom 38: 1. Herrmann, Morricone, Walton
BBC PROMS 2011 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Katie Derham The BBC Concert Orchestra and principal conductor Keith Lockhart are joined by violinist Chloe Hanslip in this concert of music for the silver screen from both sides of the Atlantic. Celebrating the centenary of his birth there's a tribute to the film composers' composer Bernard Herrmann, alongside music by today's greatest living exponent John Williams. Passages from Henry V accompany William Walton's iconic music, and there's a tribute to the late John Barry with two of his most famous themes. With additional music by Ennio Morricone, Richard Rodney Bennett at 75, and a brand new suite from last year's film Norwegian Wood - music by BBC Concert Orchestra's composer in residence, Jonny Greenwood - this promises to be a spectacular celebration of the best of classic and modern film music. Herrmann: Music from The Man Who Knew Too Much, Citizen Kane, North by Northwest and Psycho Ennio Morricone: Cinema Paradiso - theme Walton arr. Muir Mathieson: Henry V - suite Chloë Hanslip (violin) BBC Concert Orchestra Keith Lockhart (conductor).
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12-Aug-2011
BBC Proms - 2011: Prom 37: 2. Holst, Elgar
BBC PROMS 2011 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Martin Handley Chief Guest Conductor of the BBC Philharmonic, Vassily Sinaisky, continues his exploration of less-frequented corners of the repertoire, proceeding from an invigorating British concert-opener to an uncommon yet inescapably familiar concerto. Inspired by the fact that Bach and Beethoven arranged their own violin concertos for the keyboard, Dejan LaziÄ has done the same for the Brahms with engagingly idiomatic results. Julian Lloyd Webber is an ardent champion of Holst's Invocation. The concert ends with the masterpiece that put Elgar's name on the world's musical map, with his affectionate sketches of 'friends pictured within' - a firm favourite that retains its own aura of mystery. Holst: Invocation Elgar: Enigma Variations Dejan LaziÄ (piano) Julian Lloyd-Webber (cello) BBC Philharmonic Vassily Sinaisky (conductor) This Prom will be repeated on Tuesday 16th August at 2.30pm.
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12-Aug-2011
BBC Proms - 2011: Prom 37: 1. Bridge, Brahms
BBC PROMS 2011 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Martin Handley Chief Guest Conductor of the BBC Philharmonic, Vassily Sinaisky, continues his exploration of less-frequented corners of the repertoire, proceeding from an invigorating British concert-opener to an uncommon yet inescapably familiar concerto. Inspired by the fact that Bach and Beethoven arranged their own violin concertos for the keyboard, Dejan LaziÄ has done the same for the Brahms with engagingly idiomatic results. Julian Lloyd Webber is an ardent champion of Holst's Invocation. The concert ends with the masterpiece that put Elgar's name on the world's musical map, with his affectionate sketches of 'friends pictured within' - a firm favourite that retains its own aura of mystery. Bridge: Overture, 'Rebus' Brahms arr. LaziÄ: 'Piano Concerto No.3' in D major (after Violin Concerto) (UK Premiere) Dejan LaziÄ (piano) Julian Lloyd-Webber (cello) BBC Philharmonic Vassily Sinaisky (conductor) This Prom will be repeated on Tuesday 16th August at 2.30pm.
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11-Aug-2011
BBC Proms - 2011: Prom 36 - Steve Reich and Ensemble Modern
BBC PROMS 2011 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Andrew McGregor Steve Reich brings his distinctive and pioneering style to the Proms, in celebration of his 75th birthday this year. His hypnotic rhythms and elements taken from jazz and non-Western traditions produce some ravishing music. Clapping Music shows off the percussive abilities of two people who make music with nothing but their own bodies. In Electric Counterpoint a single electric guitarist builds up alluring layers of sound with a multiple guitar soundtrack. Music for 18 Musicians is a seminal piece from the 1970s and one of Reich's best-known works. The exotic colours and percussive textures are very striking, as is the unusual ensemble, featuring multiple pianos, marimbas and xylophones. It is a work Reich himself is still very satisfied with, and its enduring nature has led to many contemporary electronica artists sampling it today. Steve Reich: Clapping Music Electric Counterpoint Music for 18 Musicians Steve Reich (percussion, piano) Mats Bergström (guitar) Synergy Vocals Ensemble Modern.
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11-Aug-2011
BBC Proms - 2011: Prom 35: 2. Rachmaninov
PROMS 2011 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Louise Fryer The Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra and Kirill Karabits perform three colourful scores, two of them with connections to Karabits's Ukrainian homeland. The concert begins with a swashbuckling tone-poem by Liszt telling the story of a legendary Ukrainian, Mazeppa, and it ends with Rachmaninov's most famous (and most lyrical) symphony. Between them comes a real novelty - a melody-filled concerto for wordless soprano and orchestra by Ukrainian-born composer Reinhold Glière. The effervescent Irish soprano Ailish Tynan takes the extraordinary solo part. Kirill Karabits has been Principal Conductor of the Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra for two seasons now and their relationship is blossoming into something rather special. Rachmaninov: Symphony No. 2 in E minor Ailish Tynan (soprano) Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra Kirill Karabits (conductor) This Prom will be repeated on Monday 15th August at 2pm.
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11-Aug-2011
BBC Proms - 2011: Prom 35: 1. Liszt, Gliere
PROMS 2011 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Louise Fryer The Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra and Kirill Karabits perform three colourful scores, two of them with connections to Karabits's Ukrainian homeland. The concert begins with a swashbuckling tone-poem by Liszt telling the story of a legendary Ukrainian, Mazeppa, and it ends with Rachmaninov's most famous (and most lyrical) symphony. Between them comes a real novelty - a melody-filled concerto for wordless soprano and orchestra by Ukrainian-born composer Reinhold Glière. The effervescent Irish soprano Ailish Tynan takes the extraordinary solo part. Kirill Karabits has been Principal Conductor of the Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra for two seasons now and their relationship is blossoming into something rather special. Liszt: Mazeppa Glière: Concerto for Coloratura Soprano Ailish Tynan (soprano) Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra Kirill Karabits (conductor) This Prom will be repeated on Monday 15th August at 2pm.
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10-Aug-2011
BBC Proms - 2011: Prom 34: 2. Dupre, Saint-Saens
BBC PROMS 2011 Live from the Royal Albert Hall Presented by Andrew McGregor French and English music combine in this Proms Entente-Cordiale. Saint-Saëns' ever-popular Organ Symphony dominates the programme, joined by a new double concerto, half man, half beast, from Simon Holt. Plus Proms featured composer Frank Bridge's orchestral picture of the wild and windy Sussex Downs, overlooking the Channel. French organ virtuoso Marcel Dupré was a regular visitor to the Royal Albert Hall throughout his life. He became a great friend of Sir Henry Wood and played the Organ Symphony at the Proms in 1935. Cortège et litanie is a dazzling crescendo, using the mighty Royal Albert Hall organ together with full symphony orchestra. The inspirational Parisian conductor Francois-Xavier Roth made a great impact at the Proms last year at the helm of the BBC National Orchestra of Wales, with whom he's Associate Guest Conductor. He gave the premiere of Simon Holt's Centauromachy in Cardiff last November. Written for solo clarinet and flugelhorn, it explores the dual nature of the mythical centaur and it's played by the two orchestral Principals for whom it was written. Radio 3 New Generation Artist Ben Johnson joins the orchestra for Bridge's noble and poignant setting of Rupert Brooke's most famous poem from the Great War. Dupré: Cortège et litanie Saint-Saëns: Symphony No. 3 in C minor, 'Organ' Ben Johnson (tenor) Robert Plane (clarinet) Philippe Schartz (flugelhorn) Thomas Trotter (organ) BBC National Orchestra of Wales François-Xavier Roth (conductor) This Prom will be repeated on Sunday 14th August at 2pm.
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10-Aug-2011
BBC Proms - 2011: Prom 34: 1. Bridge, Simon Holt
BBC PROMS 2011 Live from the Royal Albert Hall Presented by Andrew McGregor French and English music combine in this Proms Entente-Cordiale. Saint-Saëns' ever-popular Organ Symphony dominates the programme, joined by a new double concerto, half man, half beast, from Simon Holt. Plus Proms featured composer Frank Bridge's orchestral picture of the wild and windy Sussex Downs, overlooking the Channel. French organ virtuoso Marcel Dupré was a regular visitor to the Royal Albert Hall throughout his life. He became a great friend of Sir Henry Wood and played the Organ Symphony at the Proms in 1935. Cortège et litanie is a dazzling crescendo, using the mighty Royal Albert Hall organ together with full symphony orchestra. The inspirational Parisian conductor Francois-Xavier Roth made a great impact at the Proms last year at the helm of the BBC National Orchestra of Wales, with whom he's Associate Guest Conductor. He gave the premiere of Simon Holt's Centauromachy in Cardiff last November. Written for solo clarinet and flugelhorn, it explores the dual nature of the mythical centaur and it's played by the two orchestral Principals for whom it was written. Radio 3 New Generation Artist Ben Johnson joins the orchestra for Bridge's noble and poignant setting of Rupert Brooke's most famous poem from the Great War. Bridge: Enter Spring Bridge: Blow out you bugles Simon Holt: Centauromachy (BBC Commission, London Premiere) Ben Johnson (tenor) Robert Plane (clarinet) Philippe Schartz (flugelhorn) Thomas Trotter (organ) BBC National Orchestra of Wales François-Xavier Roth (conductor) This Prom will be repeated on Sunday 14th August at 2pm.
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09-Aug-2011
BBC Proms - 2011: Prom 33: 2. Nielsen
PROMS 2011 Live from the Royal Albert Hall in London Presented by Katie Derham The Royal Stockholm Philharmonic Orchestra comes to the Proms with its new Chief Conductor, Sakari Oramo. Sibelius claimed that his magical Sixth Symphony would offer the public 'pure cold water' rather than the 'cocktails' composed by his contemporaries. A contrasting symphony ends this concert: Nielsen's extrovert Fourth Symphony, which emerges from the dark days of the First World War. Between these two symphonies, the critically-acclaimed young German-Japanese pianist, Alice Sara Ott, makes her Proms debut playing the ever popular Grieg Concerto. Nielsen: Symphony No. 4, 'Inextinguishable' Alice Sara Ott (piano) Royal Stockholm Philharmonic Orchestra Sakari Oramo (conductor) This Prom will be repeated on Friday 12th August at 2pm.
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09-Aug-2011
BBC Proms - 2011: Prom 33: 1. Sibelius, Grieg
PROMS 2011 Live from the Royal Albert Hall in London Presented by Katie Derham The Royal Stockholm Philharmonic Orchestra comes to the Proms with its new Chief Conductor, Sakari Oramo. Sibelius claimed that his magical Sixth Symphony would offer the public 'pure cold water' rather than the 'cocktails' composed by his contemporaries. A contrasting symphony ends this concert: Nielsen's extrovert Fourth Symphony, which emerges from the dark days of the First World War. Between these two symphonies, the critically-acclaimed young German-Japanese pianist, Alice Sara Ott, makes her Proms debut playing the ever popular Grieg Concerto. Sibelius: Symphony No. 6 in D minor Grieg: Piano Concerto in A minor Alice Sara Ott (piano) Royal Stockholm Philharmonic Orchestra Sakari Oramo (conductor) This Prom will be repeated on Friday 12th August at 2pm.
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09-Aug-2011
BBC Proms - 2011: Proms Chamber Music: 4. Khatia Buniatishvili
BBC PROMS CHAMBER MUSIC 2011 Live from Cadogan Hall, London Presented by Catherine Bott BBC New Generation Artist Khatia Buniatishvili explores the virtuosity of two great composer-pianists. Liszt - one of this year's anniversary compoers - is a favourite of hers and she begins her concert with his Sonata in B minor, technically one of the most demanding works ever written for piano. Similarly virtuosic is Prokofiev's 7th Sonata, a work written amid Stalin's brutal rule in the early years of World War II it contains some of the composers most dissonant and troubled music. Khatia Buniatishvili very much admires pianists of previous generations, a passion which influences her own unique style of pianism. Liszt: Piano Sonata in B minor Liszt: Liebesträume - No. 3: O Lieb, so lang du lieben kannst! Prokofiev: Piano Sonata No. 7 in B flat major Khatia Buniatishvili (piano) This Prom will be repeated on Saturday 13th August at 2pm.
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08-Aug-2011
BBC Proms - 2011: Prom 32: 2. Mahler
PROMS 2011 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Sara Mohr-Pietsch Christian Tetzlaff plays Brahms' great Violin Concerto, with Edward Gardner conducting the BBC Symphony Orchestra. And four top soloists and the BBC Singers join for the orchestra for the original version of Mahler's rarely-heard Das klagende Lied. Featured artist Christian Tetzlaff has played many of the great violin concertos but this is his first Proms performance of the big-boned, technically demanding work by Brahms, all of whose concertos can be heard during this Proms season. With his early Das klagende Lied, Mahler hit upon his own unique style. Tonight's account includes 'Waldmärchen', the emotive first panel dealing with the quest of brother knights for a flower that will win a queen's hand but leads to sibling murder. The score of this original three-part version of the work resurfaced as recently as 1969. Mahler: Das klagende Lied (original version) Christian Tetzlaff (violin) Melanie Diener (soprano) Anna Larsson (mezzo-soprano) Stuart Skelton (tenor) Christopher Purves (baritone) Augustus Bell (treble) Matthew Lloyd-Wilson (treble) Oluwatimilehin Otudeko (treble) Theodore Beeny (treble) Thomas Fetherstonhaugh (treble) Timothy Fairbairn (treble) BBC Singers BBC Symphony Orchestra Edward Gardner (conductor) This Prom will be repeated on Thursday 11th August at 2pm.
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08-Aug-2011
BBC Proms - 2011: Prom 32: 1. Brahms
PROMS 2011 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Sara Mohr-Pietsch Christian Tetzlaff plays Brahms' great Violin Concerto, with Edward Gardner conducting the BBC Symphony Orchestra. And four top soloists and the BBC Singers join for the orchestra for the original version of Mahler's rarely-heard Das klagende Lied. Featured artist Christian Tetzlaff has played many of the great violin concertos but this is his first Proms performance of the big-boned, technically demanding work by Brahms, all of whose concertos can be heard during this Proms season. With his early Das klagende Lied, Mahler hit upon his own unique style. Tonight's account includes 'Waldmärchen', the emotive first panel dealing with the quest of brother knights for a flower that will win a queen's hand but leads to sibling murder. The score of this original three-part version of the work resurfaced as recently as 1969. Brahms: Violin Concerto in D major Christian Tetzlaff (violin) Melanie Diener (soprano) Anna Larsson (mezzo-soprano) Stuart Skelton (tenor) Christopher Purves (baritone) Augustus Bell (treble) Matthew Lloyd-Wilson (treble) Oluwatimilehin Otudeko (treble) Theodore Beeny (treble) Thomas Fetherstonhaugh (treble) Timothy Fairbairn (treble) BBC Singers BBC Symphony Orchestra Edward Gardner (conductor) This Prom will be repeated on Thursday 11th August at 2pm.
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07-Aug-2011
BBC Proms - 2011: Prom 31 - Nigel Kennedy in Bach
BBC PROMS 2011 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Suzy Klein Nigel Kennedy brings his unique musical style and his love of the works of Bach to a programme of solo violin works. J. S. Bach: Partita No. 3 in E major - Prelude Partita No. 2 in D minor Nigel Kennedy (violin).
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07-Aug-2011
BBC Proms - 2011: Prom 30: 2. Prokofiev
BBC PROMS 2011 Live from the Royal Albert Hall Presented by Petroc Trelawny The National Orchestra of Great Britain is joined by an equally youthful soloist - Benjamin Grosvenor, who turned 19 in July: he plays the Piano Concerto by another young prodigy, Benjamin Britten. Russian-born conductor Vladimir Jurowski conducts the NYOGB in music from one of the greatest and best-loved of all Russian ballets: Sergey Prokofiev's take on Shakespeare's teenage lovers Romeo and Juliet. And the concert starts bang up to date, with a piece by Prokofiev's grandson, Gabriel Prokofiev - a concerto created for the astonishing turntables virtuoso DJ Switch. If you're over the age of 18 you can't join the National Youth Orchestra of Great Britain. But their playing is stunning, and their annual appearance at the BBC Proms is always a highlight of the season. Prokofiev: Romeo and Juliet - selection Benjamin Grosvenor (piano) DJ Switch (turntables) National Youth Orchestra of Great Britain Vladimir Jurowski (conductor) This Prom will be repeated on Wednesday 10th August at 2pm.
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07-Aug-2011
BBC Proms - 2011: Prom 30: 1. Gabriel Prokofiev, Britten
BBC PROMS 2011 Live from the Royal Albert Hall Presented by Petroc Trelawny The National Orchestra of Great Britain is joined by an equally youthful soloist - Benjamin Grosvenor, who turned 19 in July: he plays the Piano Concerto by another young prodigy, Benjamin Britten. Russian-born conductor Vladimir Jurowski conducts the NYOGB in music from one of the greatest and best-loved of all Russian ballets: Sergey Prokofiev's take on Shakespeare's teenage lovers Romeo and Juliet. And the concert starts bang up to date, with a piece by Prokofiev's grandson, Gabriel Prokofiev - a concerto created for the astonishing turntables virtuoso DJ Switch. If you're over the age of 18 you can't join the National Youth Orchestra of Great Britain. But their playing is stunning, and their annual appearance at the BBC Proms is always a highlight of the season. Gabriel Prokofiev: Concerto for Turntables and Orchestra Britten: Piano Concerto Benjamin Grosvenor (piano) DJ Switch (turntables) National Youth Orchestra of Great Britain Vladimir Jurowski (conductor) This Prom will be repeated on Wednesday 10th August at 2pm.
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06-Aug-2011
BBC Proms - 2011: Prom 29 - Mahler
BBC PROMS 2011 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Donald Macleod In one of the most eagerly anticipated Proms of the season the Simon Bolivar Symphony Orchestra returns to the Royal Albert Hall to perform Mahler's epic 'Resurrection' Symphony. Formed from pupils of Venezuela's El Sistema programme, an initiative that offers every child a free musical education, the players have been performing together since childhood, and have lit up concert halls around the world with their technical skill, passion and deep musicality - as their concert master violinist Alejandro Carreno says: "for us this isn't a job, not even a concert, for us music is all of life". Tonight under the baton of fellow El Sistema alumni Gustavo Dudamel they team up with the young singers of the National Youth Choir of Great Britain and distinguished soloists to perform a colossus of the repertoire. Written for vast forces, Mahler's symphony takes a journey from the graveside, asks the question 'is there life after death?' and ends with a triumphant promise of eternal life. It's a work Alejandro Carreno and all the orchestra love, "Mahler's music is so descriptive, the atmosphere it creates is like that of an opera. We hugely enjoy playing his music." Mahler: Symphony No. 2 in C minor 'Resurrection' Miah Persson (soprano) Anna Larsson (mezzo-soprano) National Youth Choir of Great Britain Simón Bolívar Symphony Orchestra of Venezuela Gustavo Dudamel (conductor) The Prom will be repeated on Tuesday 9th August at 2pm.
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05-Aug-2011
BBC Proms - 2011: Prom 28 - Victoria
BBC PROMS 2011 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Martin Handley Marking the 400th anniversary of his death, music by the great Spanish Renaissance composer Victoria performed by one of the world's leading specialists in early music - the Tallis Scholars. At the heart of their programme is Victoria's glorious Requiem - composed in 1603 for the funeral rites of the Dowager Empress Maria, sister of Philip II of Spain - a summation and a farewell to the music of Spain's Golden Age. Victoria: Dum complerentur Victoria: Lamentations for Good Friday Victoria: Officium defunctorum (Requiem) The Tallis Scholars Peter Phillips (conductor).
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05-Aug-2011
BBC Proms - 2011: Prom 27: 2. Brahms
BBC PROMS 2011 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Martin Handley The BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra opens this Prom with a major world premiere by Robin Holloway and continue the Brahms focus of this Proms season. Renowned Strauss conductor Donald Runnicles is joined by international soprano Hillevi Martinpelto for the beautifully reflective Four Last Songs. Robin Holloway's Fifth Concerto for Orchestra challenges him to write on a smaller scale than previously, and this BBC commission contains some of his most opaque counterpoint and most varied orchestral textures. He describes the piece as like Manhattan, "when Sprawl is impossible, you must build upwards instead". The premiere of Richard Strauss' Four Last Songs was given in the Royal Albert Hall in 1950, just after the composer's death. They were his last completed works, and are full of calmness and acceptance. Brahms then journeys away from contemplation to revel in triumph and joy by the end of his masterful Second Symphony. Brahms: Symphony No.2 in D major Hillevi Martinpelto (soprano) BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra Donald Runnicles (conductor) This Prom will be repeated on Monday 8th August at 2pm.
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05-Aug-2011
BBC Proms - 2011: Prom 27: 1. Robin Holloway, Strauss
BBC PROMS 2011 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Martin Handley The BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra opens this Prom with a major world premiere by Robin Holloway and continue the Brahms focus of this Proms season. Renowned Strauss conductor Donald Runnicles is joined by international soprano Hillevi Martinpelto for the beautifully reflective Four Last Songs. Robin Holloway's Fifth Concerto for Orchestra challenges him to write on a smaller scale than previously, and this BBC commission contains some of his most opaque counterpoint and most varied orchestral textures. He describes the piece as like Manhattan, "when Sprawl is impossible, you must build upwards instead". The premiere of Richard Strauss' Four Last Songs was given in the Royal Albert Hall in 1950, just after the composer's death. They were his last completed works, and are full of calmness and acceptance. Brahms then journeys away from contemplation to revel in triumph and joy by the end of his masterful Second Symphony. Robin Holloway: Fifth Concerto for Orchestra (BBC Commission: world premiere) R.Strauss: Four Last Songs Hillevi Martinpelto (soprano) BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra Donald Runnicles (conductor) This Prom will be repeated on Monday 8th August at 2pm.
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04-Aug-2011
BBC Proms - 2011: Prom 26: 2. Ravel
BBC PROMS 2011 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Andrew McGregor The BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra with chief conductor Donald Runnicles throws the musical focus on France, including a celebration of Henri Dutilleux's 95th Birthday. 'Tout un monde lointain' is one of Dutilleux's best loved works. Commissioned by the great Cellist, Mstislav Rostropovich, it ranks among the great cello concertos of the 20th century. The very French and vivid instrumental imagination and harmony evoke dreamlike qualities in Baudelaire's poems - the inspiration for this work. The masterly composition and orchestration of Maurice Ravel then take us to Spain, with his ever popular Bolero, and to Ancient Greece with his orchestral and choral masterpiece Daphnis and Chloë - written for the Ballets Russes in 1912. Ravel's slightly older contemporary, Debussy, also had his work Prelude a L'après-midi d'un faune staged and popularised by Diaghilev's Ballets Russes, and it sets up a world of breathtaking orchestral textures. Ravel: Daphnis and Chloë Lynn Harrell (cello) Edinburgh Festival Chorus The BBC Scottish Symphoy Orchestra Donald Runnicles (conductor) This Prom will be repeated on Sunday 7th August at 2pm.
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04-Aug-2011
BBC Proms - 2011: Prom 26: 1. Debussy, Dutilleux, Ravel
BBC PROMS 2011 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Andrew McGregor The BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra with chief conductor Donald Runnicles throws the musical focus on France, including a celebration of Henri Dutilleux's 95th Birthday. 'Tout un monde lointain' is one of Dutilleux's best loved works. Commissioned by the great Cellist, Mstislav Rostropovich, it ranks among the great cello concertos of the 20th century. The very French and vivid instrumental imagination and harmony evoke dreamlike qualities in Baudelaire's poems - the inspiration for this work. The masterly composition and orchestration of Maurice Ravel then take us to Spain, with his ever popular Bolero, and to Ancient Greece with his orchestral and choral masterpiece Daphnis and Chloë - written for the Ballets Russes in 1912. Ravel's slightly older contemporary, Debussy, also had his work Prelude a L'après-midi d'un faune staged and popularised by Diaghilev's Ballets Russes, and it sets up a world of breathtaking orchestral textures. Debussy: Prélude à l'après-midi d'un faune Henri Dutilleux: 'Tout un monde lointain ...' Ravel: Boléro Lynn Harrell (cello) Edinburgh Festival Chorus The BBC Scottish Symphoy Orchestra Donald Runnicles (conductor) This Prom will be repeated on Sunday 7th August at 2pm.
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03-Aug-2011
BBC Proms - 2011: Prom 25 - Grainger
BBC PROMS 2011 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Charles Hazlewood A Late Night Prom celebrating anniversary composer Percy Grainger. Northumbrian piper Kathryn Tickell leads the way into the musical world of a composer she finds 'quirky and outrageous and very unconventional', concentrating on Grainger's fascinating and varied responses to folk music. Trad: Green Bushes Grainger: Green Bushes Early One Morning, Tulluchgorum and Music for a New Crossing (medley) Grainger: Molly on the Shore Shepherd's Hey (medley) Grainger: Early One Morning Trad: Sea Shanty Grainger: Shallow Brown Trad: Scotch Strathspey & Reel Grainger: Scotch Strathspey & Reel June Tabor (folk singer) Wilson Family (Shanty singers) Kathryn Tickell Band BBC Singers (men's voices) Northern Sinfonia John Harle (conductor).
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03-Aug-2011
BBC Proms - 2011: Prom 24: 2. Grainger, Strauss
BBC PROMS 2011 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Louise Fryer Tasmin Little performs Elgar's great Violin Concerto with Sir Andrew Davis and the BBC Symphony Orchestra. And to mark the 50th anniversary of Grainger's death, his In a Nutshell Suite receives a first outing at the Proms. The Violin Concerto is preceded by the BBC Singers performing one of Elgar's most radical part-songs, notated in two keys simultaneously in a manner which parallels the incorrigible experiments of the Australian composer Percy Grainger. Grainger's orchestral suite reaches its grand finale - called the Gum Suckers' March - by way of some unpredictable and darkly complex invention. And to round off the Prom there's music by Richard Strauss: once considered dangerously radical itself, his perky symphonic poem documents the adventures of a purely mythical rascal. Grainger: Irish Tune from County Derry Grainger:Suite 'In a Nutshell' R. Strauss: Till Eulenspiegels lustige Streiche Tasmin Little (violin) BBC Singers BBC Symphony Orchestra Sir Andrew Davis (conductor) This Prom will be repeated on Friday 5th August at 2pm.
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03-Aug-2011
BBC Proms - 2011: Prom 24: 1. Elgar
BBC PROMS 2011 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Louise Fryer Tasmin Little performs Elgar's great Violin Concerto with Sir Andrew Davis and the BBC Symphony Orchestra. And to mark the 50th anniversary of Grainger's death, his In a Nutshell Suite receives a first outing at the Proms. The Violin Concerto is preceded by the BBC Singers performing one of Elgar's most radical part-songs, notated in two keys simultaneously in a manner which parallels the incorrigible experiments of the Australian composer Percy Grainger. Grainger's orchestral suite reaches its grand finale - called the Gum Suckers' March - by way of some unpredictable and darkly complex invention. And to round off the Prom there's music by Richard Strauss: once considered dangerously radical itself, his perky symphonic poem documents the adventures of a purely mythical rascal. Elgar: There is sweet music Elgar: Violin Concerto in B minor Tasmin Little (violin) BBC Singers BBC Symphony Orchestra Sir Andrew Davis (conductor) This Prom will be repeated on Friday 5th August at 2pm.
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02-Aug-2011
BBC Proms - 2011: Prom 23: 2. Liszt
BBC PROMS 2011 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Martin Handley Energy and Romantic drive characterise the music of tonight's Prom with the BBC Philharmonic, conductor Gianandrea Noseda and pianist Stephen Hough . Beethoven's exhilarating Fourth Symphony is the perfect curtain-raiser to Saint-Saëns's sparkling Fifth Piano Concerto, with its colourful reminiscences of his foreign travels. The second half continues this season's anniversary exploration of Liszt's major works with his turbulent Dante Symphony, bringing to vivid musical life the dark world of the Inferno and Purgatorio sections of the Italian Renaissance poet's Divine Comedy. Liszt: Dante Symphony Stephen Hough (piano) Julia Doyle (soprano) CBSO Chorus (women's voices) BBC Philharmonic Gianandrea Noseda (conductor) This Prom will be repeated on Thursday 4th August at 2pm.
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02-Aug-2011
BBC Proms - 2011: Prom 23: 1. Beethoven, Saint-Saens
BBC PROMS 2011 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Martin Handley Energy and Romantic drive characterise the music of tonight's Prom with the BBC Philharmonic, conductor Gianandrea Noseda and pianist Stephen Hough . Beethoven's exhilarating Fourth Symphony is the perfect curtain-raiser to Saint-Saëns's sparkling Fifth Piano Concerto, with its colourful reminiscences of his foreign travels. The second half continues this season's anniversary exploration of Liszt's major works with his turbulent Dante Symphony, bringing to vivid musical life the dark world of the Inferno and Purgatorio sections of the Italian Renaissance poet's Divine Comedy. Beethoven: Symphony No. 4 in B flat major Saint-Saëns: Piano Concerto No. 5 in F major ('Egyptian') Stephen Hough (piano) Julia Doyle (soprano) CBSO Chorus (women's voices) BBC Philharmonic Gianandrea Noseda (conductor) This Prom will be repeated on Thursday 4th August at 2pm.
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02-Aug-2011
BBC Proms - 2011: Proms Chamber Music: 3. PCM 03 - Les Talens Lyriques
BBC Proms Chamber Music 2011 Live from Cadogan Hall, London Presented by Catherine Bott Christophe Rousset and his ensemble Les Talens Lyriques explore French Baroque music with an Italian flavour, taking the Italian-born naturalised Frenchman Lully as their inspiration. Couperin and Rameau blend the best of both countries in their vivacious and delicately poised instrumental works and Montéclair retells the classical story of the death of Lucretia in music of drama and passion. Couperin: Les nations - La Piémontoise (excerpts) Lully: Armida's monologue : "Ah, Rinaldo ! Dove sei ?" (from the ballet Les amours déguisés) Rameau: Pièces de clavecin en concerts - Premier concert Montéclair: Cantata "Morte di Lucrezia" Les Talens Lyriques: Eugénie Warnier (soprano) Virginie Descharmes (violin) Yuki Koike (violin) Jocelyn Daubigney (flute) Stefanie Troffaes (flute) Isabelle Saint-Yves (viola da gamba) Christophe Rousset (harpsichord/director) This Prom will be repeated on Saturday 6th August at 2pm.
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01-Aug-2011
BBC Proms - 2011: Prom 22: 2. Vocalise, The Bells
BBC PROMS 2011 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Penny Gore The third Proms Choral Sunday explores the unique sound world of Rachmaninov. Three contrasting short works are framed by his cantata, Spring, which he composed in 1902 just after his famous Second Piano Concerto, and the evocative choral symphony, The Bells, composed a decade later. The Russian text of Spring tells of a man who harbours murderous thoughts towards his unfaithful wife during the winter, but is released from his anger and frustration by the return of spring. For The Bells, Rachmaninov turned to a Russian translation of poems by Edgar Allan Poe, and the work's four movements mirror the human life span from birth to death through the 'Silver Sleigh Bells', 'Mellow Wedding Bells', 'Loud Alarum Bells' and 'Mournful Iron Bells'. Rachmaninov: Vocalise Rachmaninov: The Bells Svetla Vassileva (soprano) Misha Didyk (tenor) Alexei Tanovitski (bass) Chorus of the Mariinsky Theatre BBC Philharmonic Gianandrea Noseda (conductor) This Prom will be repeated on Wednesday 3rd August at 2pm.
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01-Aug-2011
BBC Proms - 2011: Prom 22: Rachmaninov: 1. Spring, Women's and Men's Dances (Aleko), Three Russian Songs
BBC PROMS 2011 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Penny Gore The third Proms Choral Sunday explores the unique sound world of Rachmaninov. Three contrasting short works are framed by his cantata, Spring, which he composed in 1902 just after his famous Second Piano Concerto, and the evocative choral symphony, The Bells, composed a decade later. The Russian text of Spring tells of a man who harbours murderous thoughts towards his unfaithful wife during the winter, but is released from his anger and frustration by the return of spring. For The Bells, Rachmaninov turned to a Russian translation of poems by Edgar Allan Poe, and the work's four movements mirror the human life span from birth to death through the 'Silver Sleigh Bells', 'Mellow Wedding Bells', 'Loud Alarum Bells' and 'Mournful Iron Bells'. Rachmaninov: Spring Rachmaninov: Aleko - Women's and Men's Dances Rachmaninov: Three Russian Songs Svetla Vassileva (soprano) Misha Didyk (tenor) Alexei Tanovitski (bass) Chorus of the Mariinsky Theatre BBC Philharmonic Gianandrea Noseda (conductor) This Prom will be repeated on Wednesday 3rd August at 2pm.
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01-Aug-2011
BBC Proms - 2011: Prom 21: 2. Prokofiev, Strauss
BBC PROMS 2011 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Rob Cowan A Prom full of orchestral spectacle and panache. The centrepiece is Prokofiev's patriotic cantata based on music he wrote for Eisenstein's film about the epic struggles of the medieval Russian hero, Alexander Nevsky. Richard Strauss's hero, Don Juan, is less bloodthirsty but every bit as colourful, while Salome is one of Strauss's most seductive heroines. Violinist Midori joins the CBSO and Andris Nelsons for Walton's Concerto - a dramatic and lyrical work that makes huge technical demands on the soloist. Prokofiev:Alexander Nevsky - cantata R.Strauss: Salome - Dance of the Seven Veils Midori (violin) Nadezhda Serdiuk (mezzo-soprano) CBSO Chorus City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra Andris Nelsons (conductor) This Prom will be repeated on Tuesday 2nd August at 2pm.
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01-Aug-2011
BBC Proms - 2011: Prom 21: 1. Strauss, Walton
BBC PROMS 2011 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Rob Cowan A Prom full of orchestral spectacle and panache. The centrepiece is Prokofiev's patriotic cantata based on music he wrote for Eisenstein's film about the epic struggles of the medieval Russian hero, Alexander Nevsky. Richard Strauss's hero, Don Juan, is less bloodthirsty but every bit as colourful, while Salome is one of Strauss's most seductive heroines. Violinist Midori joins the CBSO and Andris Nelsons for Walton's Concerto - a dramatic and lyrical work that makes huge technical demands on the soloist. R.Strauss: Don Juan Walton:Violin Concerto Midori (violin) Nadezhda Serdiuk (mezzo-soprano) CBSO Chorus City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra Andris Nelsons (conductor) This Prom will be repeated on Tuesday 2nd August at 2pm.
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31-Jul-2011
BBC Proms - 2011: Prom 20: Horrible Histories - Part 2
BBC PROMS 2011 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Sarah Walker The Proms teams up with CBBC's popular television series "Horrible Histories" for a free family concert of songs by Richie Webb and stories and orchestral favourites, including music by Richard Strauss, Saint-Saëns, Prokofiev, Vaughan-Williams, Berlioz, Handel, Lully, Mozart, Mendelssohn and Stravinsky. It all adds up to a horrible history of classical music! Part 2 Mathew Baynton (actor) Simon Farnaby (actor) Martha Howe-Douglas (actor) Jim Howick (actor) Laurence Rickard (actor) Ben Willbond (actor) Rattus Rattus (presenter) Louise Fryer (presenter) Choirs from The Music Centre Kids Company Choir Aurora Orchestra Nicholas Collon (Conductor).
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31-Jul-2011
BBC Proms - 2011: Prom 20: Horrible Histories - Part 1
BBC PROMS 2011 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Sarah Walker The Proms teams up with CBBC's popular television series "Horrible Histories" for a family concert of songs by Richie Webb and stories and orchestral favourites, including music by Richard Strauss, Saint-Saëns, Prokofiev, Vaughan-Williams, Berlioz, Handel, Lully, Mozart, Mendelssohn and Stravinsky. It all adds up to a horrible history of classical music! Part 1 Mathew Baynton (actor) Simon Farnaby (actor) Martha Howe-Douglas (actor) Jim Howick (actor) Laurence Rickard (actor) Ben Willbond (actor) Rattus Rattus (presenter) Louise Fryer (presenter) Choirs from The Music Centre Kids Company Choir Aurora Orchestra Nicholas Collon (Conductor).
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30-Jul-2011
BBC Proms - 2011: Prom 19: 2. Castiglioni, Debussy
Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Petroc Trelawny A typically thought-provoking programme from the BBC Symphony Orchestra's Artist in Association, Oliver Knussen, showcasing pieces rarely heard in the concert hall alongside 20th-century classics. All the composers are masters of orchestral colour, and each creates a unique and concentrated soundworld. Arthur Honegger's depictions of a steam locomotive and pastoral idyll are followed by Frank Bridge's quietly anguished Shakespearean scene of death by drowning (from Hamlet) and the splintered, wintry fluidity of Italian composer Niccolò Castiglioni. Soprano Claire Booth (who made her professional debut in the music of Knussen) sings Berg's heady paean to the restorative powers of fermented grape juice. And the concert closes with Debussy's astonishing, inspirational evocation of shifting seas. Castiglioni: Inverno in-ver Debussy: La Mer Claire Booth (soprano) BBC Symphony Orchestra Oliver Knussen (conductor) This Prom will be repeated on Monday 1st August at 2pm.
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30-Jul-2011
BBC Proms - 2011: Prom 19: 1. Honegger, Bridge, Berg
Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Petroc Trelawny A typically thought-provoking programme from the BBC Symphony Orchestra's Artist in Association, Oliver Knussen, showcasing pieces rarely heard in the concert hall alongside 20th-century classics. All the composers are masters of orchestral colour, and each creates a unique and concentrated soundworld. Arthur Honegger's depictions of a steam locomotive and pastoral idyll are followed by Frank Bridge's quietly anguished Shakespearean scene of death by drowning (from Hamlet) and the splintered, wintry fluidity of Italian composer Niccolò Castiglioni. Soprano Claire Booth (who made her professional debut in the music of Knussen) sings Berg's heady paean to the restorative powers of fermented grape juice. And the concert closes with Debussy's astonishing, inspirational evocation of shifting seas. Honegger: Pacific 231 Honegger: Pastorale d'été Bridge: There is a Willow Grows Aslant a Brook Berg: Der Wein Claire Booth (soprano) BBC Symphony Orchestra Oliver Knussen (conductor) This Prom will be repeated on Monday 1st August at 2pm.
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29-Jul-2011
BBC Proms - 2011: Prom 18: 2. Carter, Beethoven
Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Suzy Klein Renowned flautist Emmanuel Pahud joins the BBC National Orchestra of Wales and conductor Thierry Fischer for two major new concertos. Framing them are two of Beethoven's most inventive and joyous symphonies. Carter's Flute Concerto is a dazzling creation. Written in 2008 at the age of 99, it contrasts the flute's lyrical qualities with a percussive orchestral texture. Dalbavie set out to write a homage to Debussy, and whilst his concerto is certainly rooted in the great French tradition, it's also full of fireworks and exploding excitement. Elliott Carter: Flute Concerto (UK premiere) Beethoven: Symphony no. 7 in A major Emmanuel Pahud (flute) BBC National Orchestra of Wales Thierry Fischer (conductor) This Prom will be repeated on Sunday 31st July at 2pm.
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29-Jul-2011
BBC Proms - 2011: Prom 18: 1. Beethoven, Dalbavie
Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Suzy Klein Renowned flautist Emmanuel Pahud joins the BBC National Orchestra of Wales and conductor Thierry Fischer for two major new concertos. Framing them are two of Beethoven's most inventive and joyous symphonies. Carter's Flute Concerto is a dazzling creation. Written in 2008 at the age of 99, it contrasts the flute's lyrical qualities with a percussive orchestral texture. Dalbavie set out to write a homage to Debussy, and whilst his concerto is certainly rooted in the great French tradition, it's also full of fireworks and exploding excitement. Beethoven: Symphony no. 1 in C major Marc-André Dalbavie: Flute Concerto (London premiere) Emmanuel Pahud (flute) BBC National Orchestra of Wales Thierry Fischer (conductor) This Prom will be repeated on Sunday 31st July at 2pm.
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29-Jul-2011
BBC Proms - 2011: Prom 17 - World Routes Academy
Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Lucy Duran For the 2011 World Routes Academy, acclaimed South Indian singer Aruna Sairam and her protégé, London born veena player Hari Sivanesan, present a concert of the classical music of South India. Having worked together as mentor and protégé both in India and the UK throughout 2011, Aruna Sairam and Hari Sivanesan bring a unique programme of music for the voice and the veena, drawing on centuries of musical tradition. The World Routes Academy aims to support and inspire young UK based world music artists by bringing them together with an internationally renowned artist in the same field and belonging to the same tradition. BBC Radio 3 appointed young London born veena player Hari Sivanesan as its 2011 World Routes Academy protégé and paired him up with mentor Aruna Sairam, who is based in Chennai, and is regarded as the leading South Indian female vocalist of her generation. Set 1: Hari Sivanesan (veena) Pirashanna Thevarajah (percussion) Set 2: Aruna Sairam (vocalist) Set 3: Aruna Sairam (vocalist) Hari Sivanesan (veena with percussion and mrindangam) Aruna Sairam (vocals) Hari Sivanesan (veena) Pirashanna Thevarajah (percussion) Patri Satish Kumar (mrindangam) Bangalore RN Prakash (ghatam) Jyotsna Srikanth (violin).
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29-Jul-2011
BBC Proms - 2011: Proms Composer Portraits: Pascal Dusapin
Presented by Andrew McGregor at the Royal College of Music. Pascal Dusapin discusses his chamber music with Andrew McGregor, and introduces performances of his String Quartet No.6, 'Hinterland', and Trio Rombach by musicians from the Guildhall School of Music & Drama.
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29-Jul-2011
BBC Proms - 2011: Prom 16: 2. Stravinsky
Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Martin Handley French connections abound in the first of two proms given by the BBC National Orchestra of Wales under Principal Conductor Thierry Fischer. Berlioz's dramatic Corsaire overture and Fauré's elegant Pavane preface the UK premiere of a new quartet concerto by Pascal Dusapin. Stravinsky's blazing Firebird, premiered in Paris for Diaghilev's Ballet Russes, completes the programme. Dusapin (b.1955) is one of the leading composers in France today. His new quartet, written for the Arditti Quartet, uses orchestral forces to expand the territory of the soloists. Dusapin explores the relationship between the orchestra and soloists, with musical ideas migrating from the quartet to the orchestral forces behind. Stravinsky: The Firebird (complete ballet) Arditti Quartet BBC National Orchestra of Wales Thierry Fischer (conductor) This Prom will be repeated on Friday 29th July at 2pm.
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28-Jul-2011
BBC Proms - 2011: Prom 16: 1. Berlioz, Faure, Dusapin
Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Martin Handley French connections abound in the first of two proms given by the BBC National Orchestra of Wales under Principal Conductor Thierry Fischer. Berlioz's dramatic Corsaire overture and Fauré's elegant Pavane preface the UK premiere of a new quartet concerto by Pascal Dusapin. Stravinsky's blazing Firebird, premiered in Paris for Diaghilev's Ballet Russes, completes the programme. Dusapin (b.1955) is one of the leading composers in France today. His new quartet, written for the Arditti Quartet, uses orchestral forces to expand the territory of the soloists. Dusapin explores the relationship between the orchestra and soloists, with musical ideas migrating from the quartet to the orchestral forces behind. Berlioz: Overture 'Le corsaire' Fauré: Pavane Pascal: Dusapin: String Quartet no.6, 'Hinterland' ('Hapax' for string quartet and orchestra) Arditti Quartet BBC National Orchestra of Wales Thierry Fischer (conductor) This Prom will be repeated on Friday 29th July at 2pm.
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27-Jul-2011
BBC Proms - 2011: Prom 15: 2. Liszt
BBC PROMS 2011 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Rob Cowan The dynamic Vladimir Jurowksi conducts the London Philharmonic in an all-Hungarian programme, including a rare performance of the Goethe-inspired Faust Symphony by Franz Liszt, one of this year's featured composers. The multi award winning pianist, Jean-Efflam Bavouzet, plays one of the most technically challenging of all piano concertos, and the programme opens with Kodaly's effervescent dances. After declaring for years that: 'Anything to do with Goethe is dangerous to handle,' Liszt finally found inspiration for his 'three character portraits' after a visit from the novelist, George Eliot. The symphony concludes with a grandiose setting of the 'Chorus mysticus' unheard at the Proms since 1967. Liszt: A Faust Symphony Jean-Efflam Bavouzet (piano) Marco Jentzsch (tenor) London Philharmonic Choir (men's voices) London Symphony Chorus (men's voices) London Philharmonic Orchestra Vladimir Jurowski (conductor) This Prom will be repeated on Thursday 28th July at 2pm.
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27-Jul-2011
BBC Proms - 2011: Prom 15: 1. Kodaly, Bartok
Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Rob Cowan The dynamic Vladimir Jurowksi conducts the London Philharmonic in an all-Hungarian programme, including a rare performance of the Goethe-inspired Faust Symphony by Franz Liszt, one of this year's featured composers. The multi award winning pianist, Jean-Efflam Bavouzet, plays one of the most technically challenging of all piano concertos, and the programme opens with Kodaly's effervescent dances. After declaring for years that: 'Anything to do with Goethe is dangerous to handle,' Liszt finally found inspiration for his 'three character portraits' after a visit from the novelist, George Eliot. The symphony concludes with a grandiose setting of the 'Chorus mysticus' unheard at the Proms since 1967. Kodaly: Dances of Galanta Bartok: Piano Concerto No.1 Jean-Efflam Bavouzet (piano) Marco Jentzsch (tenor) London Philharmonic Choir (men's voices) London Symphony Chorus (men's voices) London Philharmonic Orchestra Vladimir Jurowski (conductor) This Prom will be repeated on Thursday 28th July at 2pm.
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26-Jul-2011
BBC Proms - 2011: Prom 14 - Mahler's Symphony No 9
Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Penny Gore Mahler's last completed symphony, and one he never lived to hear, is brought to life in the Royal Albert Hall by Sir Roger Norrington in one of his final concerts as Principal Conductor of the Stuttgart Radio Symphony Orchestra, a post he has held for 13 years. The Ninth Symphony was a work written at a time of personal crisis for Mahler, following the death of his daughter Maria, the loss of his job at the Vienna Court Opera and the diagnosis of his own heart disease. Musically, however, while allusions to death abound, ultimately the work fades into peaceful resignation; as Alban Berg described it: "it expresses an extraordinary love of the earth, of nature, the longing to live in peace, to enjoy it completely to the very heart of one's being, before death comes, as irresistibly it does". Mahler: Symphony No. 9 Stuttgart Radio Symphony Orchestra (SWR) Sir Roger Norrington (conductor) This Prom will be repeated on Wednesday 27th July at 2pm.
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26-Jul-2011
BBC Proms - 2011: Proms Chamber Music: 2. PCM 02 - Elias String Quartet, Julian Bliss
BBC PROMS CHAMBER MUSIC 2011 Live from Cadogan Hall, London Presented by Catherine Bott The second of this year's Proms Chamber Music concerts features old and new. Radio 3 New Generation Artists the Elias Quartet play Purcell, Brahms, and the world premiere of a new Celtic-inspired work by Sally Beamish, and are joined by clarinetist Julian Bliss for Brahms's glowing, autumnal quintet. Purcell: Fantasia No. 6 in F major Purcell: Fantasia No. 7 in C minor Sally Beamish: Reed Stanzas (String Quartet No. 3) BBC Commission, World Premiere Brahms: Clarinet Quintet in B minor Julian Bliss (clarinet) Elias Quartet This Prom will be repeated on Saturday 30th July at 2pm.
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25-Jul-2011
BBC Proms - 2011: Prom 13 - Verdi's Requiem
Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Donald Macleod Verdi's Requiem - his great sacred masterpiece - storms the heavens with a stellar line up of soloists and massed choirs in the second of the Proms Choral Sundays. The ultimate in dramatic intensity, this extraordinary work speaks of heaven and hell, fire and earth, darkness and light in music that is as much theatrical as devotional. Verdi completed it in 1874, and conducted the premiere himself in Milan. Three large-scale choirs and the BBC Symphony Orchestra conducted by a Verdi specialist whose recent Cologne recording, which also featured bass Ferruccio Furlanetto, has been much acclaimed. Soloists Marina Poplavskaya and Joseph Calleja both sang alongside Furlanetto in last year's Simon Boccanegra at the Royal Opera House. Verdi: Requiem Marina Poplavskaya (soprano) Mariana Pentcheva (mezzo-soprano) Joseph Calleja (tenor) Ferruccio Furlanetto (bass) BBC Symphony Chorus BBC National Chorus of Wales London Philharmonic Choir BBC Symphony Orchestra Semyon Bychkov (conductor) This Prom will be repeated on Tuesday 26th July at 2pm.
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24-Jul-2011
BBC Proms - 2011: Prom 11: Human Planet - Part 2
BBC PROMS 2011 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Louise Fryer Music composed by Nitin Sawhney for the acclaimed BBC One series 'Human Planet', alongside artists from across the globe who featured in Radio 3's accompanying series 'Music Planet'. Charles Hazlewood conducts the BBC Concert Orchestra, whose players also make an appearance as the Scrapheap Orchestra, with instruments created from junk objects. 'Human Planet' was the first BBC Natural History series to focus on the human race, demonstrating how people around the world have adapted to sometimes harsh environments to survive. 'Music Planet' visited the same locations and environments, and explored the music of those places. The TV score is interleaved with Music Planet artists, starting with the mighty voice of Greenland's Rasmus Lyberth, followed by Zambian singer and storyteller Enock Mbongwe, and Mongolian throat-singers Khusugtun. Later on, Ayarkhaan, three women from the Sakha Republic, create a thunderous sound from their mouth harps, and the Bibilang Shark-Calling Group perform their unique repertoire of songs for shark hunting. The project to create a Scrapheap Orchestra from junk and found objects will be the subject of a television film to be broadcast on BBC FOUR in the autumn. Part Two Enock Mbongwe Ayarkhaan Bibilang Shark-Calling Group Khusugtun Rasmus BBC Concert Orchestra Charles Hazlewood (conductor).
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24-Jul-2011
BBC Proms - 2011: Prom 11: Human Planet - Part 1
BBC PROMS 2011 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Louise Fryer Music composed by Nitin Sawhney for the acclaimed BBC One series 'Human Planet', alongside artists from across the globe who featured in Radio 3's accompanying series 'Music Planet'. Charles Hazlewood conducts the BBC Concert Orchestra, whose players also make an appearance as the Scrapheap Orchestra, with instruments created from junk objects. 'Human Planet' was the first BBC Natural History series to focus on the human race, demonstrating how people around the world have adapted to sometimes harsh environments to survive. 'Music Planet' visited the same locations and environments, and explored the music of those places. The TV score is interleaved with Music Planet artists, starting with the mighty voice of Greenland's Rasmus Lyberth, followed by Zambian singer and storyteller Enock Mbongwe, and Mongolian throat-singers Khusugtun. Later on, Ayarkhaan, three women from the Sakha Republic, create a thunderous sound from their mouth harps, and the Bibilang Shark-Calling Group perform their unique repertoire of songs for shark hunting. The project to create a Scrapheap Orchestra from junk and found objects will be the subject of a television film to be broadcast on BBC FOUR in the autumn. Part One Enock Mbongwe Ayarkhaan Bibilang Shark-Calling Group Khusugtun Rasmus BBC Concert Orchestra Charles Hazlewood (conductor).
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23-Jul-2011
BBC Proms - 2011: Prom 10: 2. Ravel, Falla, Debussy
BBC PROMS 2011 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Petroc Trelawny Juanjo Mena, the new Chief Conductor of the BBC Philharmonic, makes his Proms debut with a glittering and inventive Franco-Spanish programme. Debussy's three evocative Images are intespersed with equally colourful impressions of Spain by Ravel, while Falla supplies the authentic Spanish experience with his haunting depiction of the sights, sounds and scents of Andalusia and the gardens of the Alhambra in Granada. Ravel: Alborada del gracioso Falla: Nights in the Gardens of Spain Debussy: Images - Ibéria Steven Osborne (piano) BBC Philharmonic Juanjo Mena (conductor) This Prom will be repeated on Monday 25 July at 2pm.
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23-Jul-2011
BBC Proms - 2011: Prom 10: 1. Debussy, Ravel
BBC PROMS 2011 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Petroc Trelawny Juanjo Mena, the new Chief Conductor of the BBC Philharmonic, makes his Proms debut with a glittering and inventive Franco-Spanish programme. Debussy's three evocative Images are interspersed with equally colourful impressions of Spain by Ravel, while Falla supplies the authentic Spanish experience with his haunting depiction of the sights, sounds and scents of Andalusia and the gardens of the Alhambra in Granada. Debussy: Images - Gigues Ravel: Rapsodie espagnole Debussy: Images - Rondes de printemps Steven Osborne (piano) BBC Philharmonic Juanjo Mena (conductor) This Prom will be repeated on Monday 25 July at 2pm.
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22-Jul-2011
BBC Proms - 2011: Prom 09: 2. Bartok, Janacek
BBC PROMS 2011 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Martin Handley Two works by Sibelius begin this concert with Sir Mark Elder and the Hallé. Scènes Historiques Suite No 2 reveals the composer's lighter side, opening with The Chase, in which horns are heard through the mist, followed by a wild chase, with impelling rhythms. The great Seventh Symphony has long been admired for its intensity and concision; its conclusion has been called "the grandest celebration of C major there ever was". Bartók's last completed concerto was written in conditions of great poverty and adversity during the composer's exile in New York, but none of this is apparent from the work itself., which is generally melodic, mellow, even nostalgic in tone. It is championed tonight by András Schiff, appearing at the Proms for the first time since his 2006 solo recital. And, to close, a joyous sequence of sonic snapshots: Janácek's Sinfonietta is his typically bold evocation of a beloved city, the Moravian regional capital, Brno. Bartók: Piano Concerto No. 3 Janácek: Sinfonietta András Schiff (piano) Hallé Sir Mark Elder (conductor) This Prom will be repeated on Sunday 24 July at 2pm.
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22-Jul-2011
BBC Proms - 2011: Proms Plus: Proms Intro: Bela Bartok
Louise Fryer is joined by musicologist and author Malcolm Gillies and Hungarian poet and translator George Szirtes to explore the life and works of one of this Prom season's featured composers, Bela Bartok.
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22-Jul-2011
BBC Proms - 2011: Prom 09: 1. Sibelius
BBC PROMS 2011 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Martin Handley Two works by Sibelius begin this concert with Sir Mark Elder and the Hallé. Scènes Historiques Suite No 2 reveals the composer's lighter side, opening with The Chase, in which horns are heard through the mist, followed by a wild chase, with impelling rhythms. The great Seventh Symphony has long been admired for its intensity and concision; its conclusion has been called "the grandest celebration of C major there ever was". Bartók's last completed concerto was written in conditions of great poverty and adversity during the composer's exile in New York, but none of this is apparent from the work itself., which is generally melodic, mellow, even nostalgic in tone. It is championed tonight by András Schiff, appearing at the Proms for the first time since his 2006 solo recital. And, to close, a joyous sequence of sonic snapshots: Janácek's Sinfonietta is his typically bold evocation of a beloved city, the Moravian regional capital, Brno. Sibelius: Scènes historiques - Suite No. 2 Sibelius: Symphony No. 7 in C major András Schiff (piano) Hallé Sir Mark Elder (conductor) This Prom will be repeated on Sunday 24 July at 2pm.
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21-Jul-2011
BBC Proms - 2011: Prom 08: 2. Smetana
BBC PROMS 2011 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Tom Service A Czech evening with Dvorak's Cello Concerto and a Proms first performance for the six symphonic poems of Má vlast by Smetana. Dvorák's Cello Concerto is full of melody and heartfelt sentiment, to which French cellist Jean-Guihen Queyras will bring both youthful urgency and intimacy, if his recording with tonight's conductor is anything to go by. The work is widely regarded as the finest concerto ever written for the instrument. Nostalgia turns to nationalism in the second half, with Smetana's Má vlast - a glorious musical touchstone for 'the resurrection of the Czech nation, its future happiness and glory'. Smetana: Má vlast Jean-Guihen Queyras (cello) BBC Symphony Orchestra Jiri Belohlávek (conductor) This Prom will be repeated on Friday 22 July at 2pm.
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21-Jul-2011
BBC Proms - 2011: Proms Plus: Proms Literary - The Literary Life of the Cello
Instruments in Literature: the Cello. How well do the great works of fiction portray instruments in their pages? Music critic and Professor of English, Peggy Reynolds is joined by a cellist from the BBC Symphony Orchestra to explore the cello's literary life across the ages - and to perform its literary incarnations. Night Waves presenter Rana Mitter hosts this discussion recorded in front of an audience at the Royal College of Music. The programme is part of Radio 3's Proms Plus Literary exploring some of the literary and cultural dimensions of this year's Proms concerts, in front of an audience at the Royal College of Music, right next door to the Albert Hall and just in advance of the concerts themselves.
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21-Jul-2011
BBC Proms - 2011: Prom 08: 1. Dvorak
BBC PROMS 2011 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Tom Service A Czech evening with Dvorak's Cello Concerto and a Proms first performance for the six symphonic poems of Má vlast by Smetana. Dvorák's Cello Concerto is full of melody and heartfelt sentiment, to which French cellist Jean-Guihen Queyras will bring both youthful urgency and intimacy, if his recording with tonight's conductor is anything to go by. The work is widely regarded as the finest concerto ever written for the instrument. Nostalgia turns to nationalism in the second half, with Smetana's Má vlast - a glorious musical touchstone for 'the resurrection of the Czech nation, its future happiness and glory'. Dvorák: Cello Concerto in B minor Jean-Guihen Queyras (cello) BBC Symphony Orchestra Jiri Belohlávek (conductor) This Prom will be repeated on Friday 22 July at 2pm.
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20-Jul-2011
BBC Proms - 2011: Prom 07 - Schubert's String Quintet
BBC PROMS 2011 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Petroc Trelawny One of the greatest pieces of chamber music for the first of this season's Late Night Proms. A leading quartet of our time is joined by the distinguished cellist and founder member of the Berg Quartet, Valentin Erben. Barely thirty years old, but already near death, Schubert had his String Quintet rejected by his publisher and only performed and published many years after his death. But its exploratory outer movements and the sublimely transcendent slow movement, continue to inspire musicians, poets, film makers and audiences to this day. Schubert: Quintet in C major, D956 Belcea Quartet Valentin Erben (cello).
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20-Jul-2011
BBC Proms - 2011: Prom 06: 2. Stravinsky
BBC PROMS 2011 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Rob Cowan The most influential orchestral work of the 20th century is at the heart of tonight's Prom. Stravinsky's Rite caused a scandal at its premiere in 1913 and still sounds sensational nearly 100 years later. Myung-Whun Chung conducts the Orchestre Philharmonique de Radio France in this riot of orchestral colour. The first half of the concert pairs works by German Romantics from either end of the 19th century, Weber's Oberon overture and Brahms's beautiful Double Concerto, featuring the brothers Capuçon as soloists. Brahms's final work for orchestra, the Double Concerto, was in part a gesture of reconciliation towards his friend the violinist Joseph Joachim and makes huge demands on both soloists. Stravinsky: The Rite of Spring Renaud Capuçon (violin) Gautier Capuçon (cello) Orchestre Philharmonique de Radio France Myung-Whun Chung (conductor) This Prom will be repeated on Thursday 21 July at 2pm.
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20-Jul-2011
BBC Proms - 2011: Prom 06: 1. Weber, Brahms
BBC PROMS 2011 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Rob Cowan The most influential orchestral work of the 20th century is at the heart of tonight's Prom. Stravinsky's Rite caused a scandal at its premiere in 1913 and still sounds sensational nearly 100 years later. Myung-Whun Chung conducts the Orchestre Philharmonique de Radio France in this riot of orchestral colour. The first half of the concert pairs works by German Romantics from either end of the 19th century, Weber's Oberon overture and Brahms's beautiful Double Concerto, featuring the brothers Capuçon as soloists. Brahms's final work for orchestra, the Double Concerto, was in part a gesture of reconciliation towards his friend the violinist Joseph Joachim and makes huge demands on both soloists. Weber: Oberon - overture Brahms: Concerto in A minor for Violin and Cello (Double Concerto) Renaud Capuçon (violin) Gautier Capuçon (cello) Orchestre Philharmonique de Radio France Myung-Whun Chung (conductor) This Prom will be repeated on Thursday 21 July at 2pm.
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19-Jul-2011
BBC Proms - 2011: Prom 05: 2. Beethoven
BBC PROMS 2011 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Rob Cowan Myung-Whun Chung conducts the Orchestre Philharmonique de Radio France and is joined by Proms first-timers Gautier and Renaud Capuçon, and pianist Frank Braley for Beethoven's Triple Concerto. There's also colourful music by Messiaen alongside the UK premiere of an exciting new work for large orchestra by Pascal Dusapin. Pascal Dusapin is one of the most exciting contemporary voices around, combining stylistic experimentation with emotional directness. Dusapin studied briefly with Olivier Messiaen, whose first orchestral work, Les offrandes oubliées, opens the concert. Beethoven: Concerto in C major for Violin, Cello & Piano (Triple Concerto) Renaud Capuçon (violin) Gautier Capuçon (cello) Frank Braley (piano) Orchestre Philharmonique de Radio France Myung-Whun Chung (conductor) This Prom will be repeated on Wednesday 20 July at 2pm.
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19-Jul-2011
BBC Proms - 2011: Prom 05: 1. Messiaen, Dusapin
BBC PROMS 2011 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Rob Cowan Myung-Whun Chung conducts the Orchestre Philharmonique de Radio France and is joined by Proms first-timers Gautier and Renaud Capuçon, and pianist Frank Braley for Beethoven's Triple Concerto. There's also colourful music by Messiaen alongside the UK premiere of an exciting new work for large orchestra by Pascal Dusapin. Pascal Dusapin is one of the most exciting contemporary voices around, combining stylistic experimentation with emotional directness. Dusapin studied briefly with Olivier Messiaen, whose first orchestral work, Les offrandes oubliées, opens the concert. Messiaen: Les offrandes oubliées Pascal Dusapin: Morning in Long Island - Concerto No. 1 for large orchestra (BBC co-commission with Radio France; UK Premiere) Renaud Capuçon (violin) Gautier Capuçon (cello) Frank Braley (piano) Orchestre Philharmonique de Radio France Myung-Whun Chung (conductor) This Prom will be repeated on Wednesday 20 July at 2pm.
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19-Jul-2011
BBC Proms - 2011: Proms Plus: Proms Intro: William Tell
Recorded in front of a live audience at the Royal College of Music, opera historian Benjamin Walton and Royal Opera House programme contributor Sarah Lenton join Petroc Trelawny to explore Rossini's William Tell, and the influence it had on the grand tradition of French opera.
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18-Jul-2011
BBC Proms - 2011: Prom 04 - Proms Choral Sunday: Havergal Brian's Gothic Symphony
BBC PROMS 2011 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Tom Service The first Choral Sunday of the season boasts the grandest statement of British choral music, Havergal Brian's Gothic Symphony. Two BBC orchestras, four brass bands, six choruses, four youth choruses and four star soloists join together for the Proms debut of this epic English "Symphony of a Thousand". According to conductor Martyn Brabbins it will be one of the biggest classical undertakings ever mounted - "It's going to be a fantastic sonic spectacle, Gothic in the sense of architecture, detail, grandeur and mystery". Written in 1920, it's only been performed in concert five times since. The Gothic Symphony won a place in the Guinness Book of Records for being the longest symphony, requiring the largest forces. This is a rare chance to hear a unique and massive work, and not to be missed. Brian: Symphony No. 1 in D minor, 'The Gothic' Susan Gritton (soprano) Christine Rice (mezzo-soprano) Peter Auty (tenor) Alastair Miles (bass) CBSO Youth Chorus Eltham College Boys' Choir Southend Boys' and Girls' Choirs Bach Choir BBC National Chorus of Wales Brighton Festival Chorus Côr Caerdydd Huddersfield Choral Society London Symphony Chorus BBC Concert Orchestra BBC National Orchestra of Wales Martyn Brabbins (conductor) This Prom will be repeated on Tuesday 19 July at 2pm.
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18-Jul-2011
BBC Proms - 2011: Proms Plus Choral Sundays: Havergal Brian's Choral Symphony
PROMS PLUS Live from the Royal College of Music, London Sarah Walker presents the first in a series of live introductions to the music being performed in Proms Choral Sundays. Havergal Brian's Gothic Symphony is explored with help from musicians from the BBC National Orchestra of Wales performing live extracts from the work. Havergal Brian's Gothic Symphony is a work like no other: It calls for two orchestras, multiple choirs and soloists plus brass bands, and at almost two hours long is in the Guinness Book of Records under 'Longest Symphony'. Sarah Walker will look at the inspirations behind the work, and introduce listeners to Brian's distinctive musical sound-world.
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18-Jul-2011
BBC Proms - 2011: Prom 03 - Alain, Liszt, Bach, Bingham
BBC PROMS 2011 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Louise Fryer British organist Stephen Farr puts the mighty Albert Hall instrument through its paces in a programme which celebrates two musical anniversaries and includes the world premiere of a major new work. The anniversary composers are Jehan Alain, the French organist born in 1911 and killed in World War II, and Franz Liszt, whose music for organ is the match, in virtuosity and sheer elan, of his more familiar works for piano. Concluding the programme, Stephen Farr gives the first performance of a characteristically imaginative new work for organ by the British composer Judith Bingham. This suite of pieces depicts a lavish, but imaginary, ceremonial crown in which is framed seven fabulous gemstones of legend. Each movement of the suite takes one of these jewels to represents an aspect of royalty, good and bad - such as divinity and splendour, but also treachery and cruelty, representing the best and the worst of the human race. Alain: Litanies Liszt: Prelude 'Weinen, Klagen, Sorgen, Zagen' (arr. Winterberger) JS Bach: Chorale Prelude 'Erbarm dich mein, o Herre Gott', BWV 721 Judith Bingham: The Everlasting Crown (World Premiere) Stephen Farr (organ).
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17-Jul-2011
BBC Proms - 2011: Prom 02: 3. William Tell Acts 3 and 4
BBC PROMS 2011 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Sean Rafferty Antonio Pappano comes to the Proms with his Orchestra and Chorus of the Academy of Santa Cecilia, Rome, for a rare performance of Rossini's grandest of operas about the legendary founding fathers of Switzerland and the hero who shoots an apple from his son's head. Michele Pertusi takes the title role and the character of Arnold, one of Rossini's most demanding tenor parts, (complete with numerous high Cs), is sung by the American tenor John Osborn. Rossini: William Tell, Acts III and IV William Tell ...... Michele Pertusi (baritone) Arnold Melchthal ...... John Osborn (tenor) Walter Furst ...... Matthew Rose (bass) Melchthal ...... Frédéric Caton (bass) Jemmy ...... Elena Xanthoudakis (soprano) Gesler ...... Nicolas Courjal (bass) Rodolphe ...... Carlo Bosi (tenor) Ruodi ...... Celso Albelo (tenor) Leuthold ...... Mark Stone (baritone) Mathilde ...... Malyn Byström (soprano) Hedwige ...... Patricia Bardon (mezzo-soprano) Huntsman ...... Davide Malvestio (bass) Orchestra and Chorus of the Academy of Santa Cecilia, Rome Antonio Pappano (conductor).
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17-Jul-2011
BBC Proms - 2011: Prom 02: 2. William Tell Act 2
BBC PROMS 2011 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Sean Rafferty Antonio Pappano comes to the Proms with his Orchestra and Chorus of the Academy of Santa Cecilia, Rome, for a rare performance of Rossini's grandest of operas about the legendary founding fathers of Switzerland and the hero who shoots an apple from his son's head. Michele Pertusi takes the title role and the character of Arnold, one of Rossini's most demanding tenor parts, (complete with numerous high Cs), is sung by the American tenor John Osborn. Rossini: William Tell, Act II William Tell ...... Michele Pertusi (baritone) Arnold Melchthal ...... John Osborn (tenor) Walter Furst ...... Matthew Rose (bass) Melchthal ...... Frédéric Caton (bass) Jemmy ...... Elena Xanthoudakis (soprano) Gesler ...... Nicolas Courjal (bass) Rodolphe ...... Carlo Bosi (tenor) Ruodi ...... Celso Albelo (tenor) Leuthold ...... Mark Stone (baritone) Mathilde ...... Malyn Byström (soprano) Hedwige ...... Patricia Bardon (mezzo-soprano) Huntsman ...... Davide Malvestio (bass) Orchestra and Chorus of the Academy of Santa Cecilia, Rome Antonio Pappano (conductor).
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17-Jul-2011
BBC Proms - 2011: Prom 02: 1. William Tell Act 1
BBC PROMS 2011 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Sean Rafferty Antonio Pappano comes to the Proms with his Orchestra and Chorus of the Academy of Santa Cecilia, Rome, for a rare performance of Rossini's grandest of operas about the legendary founding fathers of Switzerland and the hero who shoots an apple from his son's head. Michele Pertusi takes the title role and the character of Arnold, one of Rossini's most demanding tenor parts, (complete with numerous high Cs), is sung by the American tenor John Osborn. Rossini: William Tell, Act I William Tell ...... Michele Pertusi (baritone) Arnold Melchthal ...... John Osborn (tenor) Walter Furst ...... Matthew Rose (bass) Melchthal ...... Frédéric Caton (bass) Jemmy ...... Elena Xanthoudakis (soprano) Gesler ...... Nicolas Courjal (bass) Rodolphe ...... Carlo Bosi (tenor) Ruodi ...... Celso Albelo (tenor) Leuthold ...... Mark Stone (baritone) Mathilde ...... Malyn Byström (soprano) Hedwige ...... Patricia Bardon (mezzo-soprano) Huntsman ...... Davide Malvestio (bass) Orchestra and Chorus of the Academy of Santa Cecilia, Rome Antonio Pappano (conductor).
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16-Jul-2011
BBC Proms - 2011: Prom 1: 2. Janacek
BBC PROMS 2011 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Petroc Trelawny New British music, Brahms and Liszt and lavish choral works are some of the musical threads which trace their way through the 2011 Proms season and they are all represented in this opening celebration. The performers are the BBC Symphony Orchestra and Chorus and a starry line-up of soloists under the baton of Chief Conductor of the BBC Symphony Orchestra Jiri Belohlavek. A new work by leading British composer Judith Weir provides the opening flourish - a short choral and orchestral fanfare based on the four words of the title: Stars, Night, Music and Light. Brahms and Liszt not only form a witty partnership in rhyming slang they are both in their own ways at the core of European music in the 19th Century and many of their major works appear throughout the season. Tonight's concert includes Brahms's festive overture and Liszt's virtuosic concerto performed by young British pianist Benjamin Grosvenor who makes his Proms debut. After the interval Belohlavek leads orchestra, chorus and soloists in Janacek's extraordinary celebration of Slavic culture. Janacek: Glagolitic Mass Benjamin Grosvenor (piano) Hibla Gerzmava (soprano) Dagmar Peckova (mezzo-soprano) Stefan Vinke (tenor) Jan Martiník (bass) David Goode (organ) BBC Singers BBC Symphony Chorus BBC Symphony Orchestra Jiri Belohlavek (conductor) This Prom will be repeated on Monday 18 July at 2pm.
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16-Jul-2011
BBC Proms - 2011: Prom 1: 1. Weir, Brahms, Liszt
BBC PROMS 2011 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Petroc Trelawny New British music, Brahms and Liszt and lavish choral works are some of the musical threads which trace their way through the 2011 Proms season and they are all represented in this opening celebration. The performers are the BBC Symphony Orchestra and Chorus and a starry line-up of soloists under the baton of Chief Conductor of the BBC Symphony Orchestra Jiri Belohlavek. A new work by leading British composer Judith Weir provides the opening flourish - a short choral and orchestral fanfare based on the four words of the title: Stars, Night, Music and Light. Brahms and Liszt not only form a witty partnership in rhyming slang they are both in their own ways at the core of European music in the 19th Century and many of their major works appear throughout the season. Tonight's concert includes Brahms's festive overture and Liszt's virtuosic concerto performed by young British pianist Benjamin Grosvenor who makes his Proms debut. After the interval Belohlavek leads orchestra, chorus and soloists in Janacek's extraordinary celebration of Slavic culture. Judith Weir: Stars, Night, Music and Light (BBC commission; world premiere) Brahms: Academic Festival Overture Liszt: Piano Concerto No. 2 in A major Benjamin Grosvenor (piano) Hibla Gerzmava (soprano) Dagmar Peckova (mezzo-soprano) Stefan Vinke (tenor) Jan Martiník (bass) David Goode (organ) BBC Singers BBC Symphony Chorus BBC Symphony Orchestra Jiri Belohlavek (conductor) This Prom will be repeated on Monday 18 July at 2pm.
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01-Jan-2011
BBC Proms - 2010: Prom 76: Last Night of the Proms
From the BBC Proms 2010 Presented by Sean Rafferty and Suzy Klein Another chance to hear the traditional Last Night festivities as Jirí Belohlàvek and the BBC Symphony Orchestra perform an evening of great music, vivid colour and occasional noises-off. Adding the solo glamour are American soprano Renée Fleming and Ukrainian born viola player Maxim Rysanov each acknowledged for the excellence of their music making as well as their on-stage elegance. Known for her roles as great operatic heroines, Fleming sings a series of intimate songs by Richard Strauss and what is perhaps her signature piece - Rusalka's romantic entreaty to the moon. Rysanov, a current Radio 3 New Generation Artist, performs his own arrangement of Tchaikovsky's Variations on a Rococo Theme and movements from Vaughan Williams rarely-heard Viola Suite. Other works include the premiere of Jonathan Dove's joyous setting of a poem by Walt Whitman, Tchaikovsky's sun-drenched homage to Italy and there's an opportunity for the combined forces of the BBC Singers and BBC Symphony Chorus to shine in Parry's much loved choral ode. All this and the traditional Last Night fare make this one of the musical highlights of the year. Jonathan Dove: A Song of Joys (BBC Commission - world premiere) Tchaikovsky: Capriccio italien Tchaikovsky arr. Rysanov: Variations on a Rococo Theme Parry: Blest Pair of Sirens R. Strauss: Verführung, Op. 33. No. 1 R. Strauss: Freundliche Vision, Op. 48 No. 1 R. Strauss: Ständchen, Op. 17 No. 2 R. Strauss: Winterweihe, Op. 48. No. 4 R. Strauss: Zueignung, Op. 10 No. 1 Chabrier: Joyeuse Marche Smetana: Dalibor - "Dobra! Já mu je dam! ... Jak je mi?" Dvorak: Rusalka - Song to the Moon Vaughan Williams: Suite for viola and small orchestra - Prelude; Galop Wagner: Lohengrin - Bridal Chorus Rodgers & Hammerstein: Carousel - 'You'll never walk alone' Trad, arr. Nic Raine: Fisher's Hornpipe Arne arr. Sargent: Rule, Britannia! Parry, orch. Elgar: Jerusalem Elgar: Pomp and Circumstance March No. 1 in D major ('Land of Hope and Glory') The National Anthem Auld Lang Syne BBC Singers BBC Symphony Chorus BBC Symphony Orchestra Renée Fleming (soprano) Maxim Rysanov (viola) Jirí Belohlàvek (conductor).
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28-Dec-2010
BBC Proms - 2010: Prom 07 - Maria Joao Pires
From the BBC Proms 2010 Presented by Petroc Trelawny For such a huge venue - it holds almost six thousand people - the Royal Albert Hall can be amazingly intimate when the focus is on a single performer. What better way for the Proms to celebrate the 200th birthday this year of Frédéric Chopin than another chance to hear a late-night performance of his Nocturnes for solo piano, played in July by acclaimed Portuguese pianist Maria João Pires. Chopin: Nocturnes, op 9, nos. 1, 2 and 3 op 15, nos. 1, 2 and 3 op 27, nos. 1 and 2 op 62, nos. 1 and 2 op 72, no 1 Lento con gran espressione, KK IVa No.16 Maria João Pires (piano).
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12-Sep-2010
BBC Proms - 2010: BBC Proms in the Park
Sir Terry Wogan presents BBC Proms in the Park, live from London's Hyde Park, before an enthusiatic audience of 40,000 revellers. The BBC Concert Orchestra is conducted by Martin Yates in a selection of popular classics. This year's special guests include Dame Kiri Te Kanawa, who introduces to the stage the winner of BBC Radio 2's Kiri Prize - the culmination of a nationwide search for an opera star for the future. Jose Carreras makes a welcome return to Hyde Park - it is his third visit to BBC Proms in the Park. He will join his friend Dame Kiri in duet and song. West End and Broadway star Kerry Ellis and Queen guitarist Brian May perform music from their latest collaboration - Anthem - and song writing genius Neil Sedaka closes the show with songs from a career spanning five decades. Finally, Gareth Malone is on hand to conduct the Hyde Park crowd in the nation's biggest singalong and the Last Night of the Proms Finale.
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12-Sep-2010
BBC Proms - 2010: Prom 76: Last Night of the Proms - Part 2
BBC Proms 2010 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Sean Rafferty and Suzy Klein Sean Rafferty and Suzy Klein host the traditional Last Night festivities as Jiri Belohlavek and the BBC Symphony Orchestra perform an evening of great music, vivid colour and occasional noises-off. Adding the solo glamour are American soprano Renee Fleming and Ukrainian born viola player Maxim Rysanov each acknowledged for the excellence of their music making as well as their on-stage elegance. Known for her roles as great operatic heroines, Fleming sings a series of intimate songs by Richard Strauss and what is perhaps her signature piece - Rusalka's romantic entreaty to the moon. Rysanov, a current Radio 3 New Generation Artist, performs his own arrangement of Tchaikovsky's Variations on a Rococo Theme and movements from Vaughan Williams rarely-heard Viola Suite. Other works include the premiere of Jonathan Dove's joyous setting of a poem by Walt Whitman, Tchaikovsky's sun-drenched homage to Italy and there's an opportunity for the combined forces of the BBC Singers and BBC Symphony Chorus to shine in Parry's much loved choral ode. All this and the traditional Last Night fare make this one of the musical highlights of the year. Chabrier: Joyeuse Marche Smetana: Dalibor - "Dobra! Ja mu je dam! ... Jak je mi?" Dvorak: Rusalka - Song to the Moon Vaughan Williams: Suite for viola and small orchestra - Prelude; Galop Wagner: Lohengrin - Bridal Chorus Rodgers & Hammerstein: Carousel - 'You'll never walk alone' Trad, arr. Nic Raine: Fisher's Hornpipe Arne arr. Sargent: Rule, Britannia! Parry, orch. Elgar: Jerusalem Elgar: Pomp and Circumstance March No. 1 in D major ('Land of Hope and Glory') The National Anthem Auld Lang Syne BBC Singers BBC Symphony Chorus BBC Symphony Orchestra Renee Fleming (soprano) Maxim Rysanov (viola) Jiri Belohlavek (conductor).
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12-Sep-2010
BBC Proms - 2010: Prom 76: Last Night of the Proms - Part 1
BBC Proms 2010 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Sean Rafferty and Suzy Klein Sean Rafferty and Suzy Klein host the traditional Last Night festivities as Jiri Belohlavek and the BBC Symphony Orchestra perform an evening of great music, vivid colour and occasional noises-off. Adding the solo glamour are American soprano Renee Fleming and Ukrainian born viola player Maxim Rysanov each acknowledged for the excellence of their music making as well as their on-stage elegance. Known for her roles as great operatic heroines, Fleming sings a series of intimate songs by Richard Strauss and what is perhaps her signature piece - Rusalka's romantic entreaty to the moon. Rysanov, a current Radio 3 New Generation Artist, performs his own arrangement of Tchaikovsky's Variations on a Rococo Theme and movements from Vaughan Williams rarely-heard Viola Suite. Other works include the premiere of Jonathan Dove's joyous setting of a poem by Walt Whitman, Tchaikovsky's sun-drenched homage to Italy and there's an opportunity for the combined forces of the BBC Singers and BBC Symphony Chorus to shine in Parry's much loved choral ode. All this and the traditional Last Night fare make this one of the musical highlights of the year. Jonathan Dove: A Song of Joys (BBC Commission - world premiere) Tchaikovsky: Capriccio italien Tchaikovsky arr. Rysanov: Variations on a Rococo Theme Parry: Blest Pair of Sirens R. Strauss: Verfahrung, Op. 33. No. 1 R. Strauss: Freundliche Vision, Op. 48 No. 1 R. Strauss: Standchen, Op. 17 No. 2 R. Strauss: Winterweihe, Op. 48. No. 4 R. Strauss: Zueignung, Op. 10 No. 1 BBC Singers BBC Symphony Chorus BBC Symphony Orchestra Renee Fleming (soprano) Maxim Rysanov (viola) Jiri Belohlavek (conductor).
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11-Sep-2010
BBC Proms - 2010: Prom 75 - Monteverdi's Vespers
BBC PROMS 2010 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Martin Handley Sir John Eliot Gardiner conducts the Monteverdi Choir and English Baroque Soloists in Monteverdi's resplendent Vespers. Published 400 years ago in 1610, Monteverdi's choral masterpiece is a glorious summation of the different styles of Venetian church music of the 1600s. Sir John Eliot Gardiner and his Monteverdi Choir make the most of the vast spaces of the Royal Albert Hall to perform the music with which they made their Proms debut in 1968. Monteverdi Choir English Baroque Soloists The London Oratory Junior Choir & The Schola Cantorum of The Cardinal Vaughan Memorial School His Majestys Sagbutts and Cornetts Sir John Eliot Gardiner (conductor).
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10-Sep-2010
BBC Proms - 2010: Prom 74: Schubert, Schumann, Mozart - Part 2
BBC PROMS 2010 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Katie Derham The Romantic spirit of bicentenary composer Schumann hovers above the central works of this concert. His lyrical 'Introduction and Allegro appassionato' - in effect a single-movement piano concerto - is played by Finghin Collins, and Dorothea Röschmann is the soloist in Robin Holloway's illumination of Schumann's last song cycle, which sets poems and prayers by Mary Queen of Scots, written during her incarceration by her cousin Elizabeth I. Gianandrea Noseda frames these works with two well-known penultimate symphonies - Schubert's tantalisingly 'Unfinished' but nonetheless perfect work, and what is probably Mozart's darkest masterpiece. Schumann, orch. Robin Holloway: RELIQUARY - Scenes from the life of Mary Queen of Scots enclosing an instrumentation of Robert Schumann's "Gedichte der Königin Maria Stuart", Op. 135 (BBC commission: world premiere) Mozart: Symphony No. 40 in G minor Finghin Collins (piano) Dorothea Röschmann (soprano) BBC Philharmonic Gianandrea Noseda (conductor).
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10-Sep-2010
BBC Proms - 2010: Prom 74: Schubert, Schumann, Mozart - Part 1
BBC PROMS 2010 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Katie Derham The Romantic spirit of bicentenary composer Schumann hovers above the central works of this concert. His lyrical 'Introduction and Allegro appassionato' - in effect a single-movement piano concerto - is played by Finghin Collins, and Dorothea Röschmann is the soloist in Robin Holloway's illumination of Schumann's last song cycle, which sets poems and prayers by Mary Queen of Scots, written during her incarceration by her cousin Elizabeth I. Gianandrea Noseda frames these works with two well-known penultimate symphonies - Schubert's tantalisingly 'Unfinished' but nonetheless perfect work, and what is probably Mozart's darkest masterpiece. Schubert: Symphony No. 8 in B minor, 'Unfinished' Schumann: Introduction and Allegro appassionato in G major, Op. 92 Finghin Collins (piano) Dorothea Röschmann (soprano) BBC Philharmonic Gianandrea Noseda (conductor).
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09-Sep-2010
BBC Proms - 2010: Prom 73 - Penguin Cafe
BBC PROMS 2010 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Catherine Bott 'I think our recordings have been put in the classical, folk, pop, rock, avantgarde, chillout, world and dance sections of record shop,' says Arthur Jeffes, leader of Penguin Café, the 21st-century reincarnation of the Penguin Café Orchestra made famous by his father Simon Jeffes. For its debut in this Late Night Prom the Penguin Café's wide-ranging lineup of ukulele, dulcitone, penny whistles and guitars alongside violin, cello and piano, is supplemented by the Northumbrian smallpipes - played by their star champion Kathryn Tickell. Kathryn Tickell (Northumbrian smallpipes) Penguin Café.
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09-Sep-2010
BBC Proms - 2010: Proms Composer Portraits: Tansy Davies
Tansy Davies, in conversation with Tom Service, discusses her new Proms commission and introduces her chamber works grind show (electric), salt box and neon, performed by musicians from the Guildhall School of Music & Drama.
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09-Sep-2010
BBC Proms - 2010: Prom 72: Wagner, Davies, Bruckner - Part 2
BBC PROMS 2010 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Penny Gore Bruckner, like his hero Wagner, composed on a vast scale. The BBC Symphony Orchestra's Chief Conductor, Jiri Belohlávek, pairs the festive prelude from Act 3 of Wagner's 'swan knight' romance with the most overarching and open-hearted of Bruckner's nine symphonies - a work whose slow movement was composed in the shadow of Wagner's death and enshrines Bruckner's musical memorial to the man he revered as the 'Master'. Always a composer of vivid and funky surprises, Tansy Davies promises in her new work to take us on a journey through the Tarot pack. Bruckner: Symphony No. 7 in E major BBC Symphony Orchestra Jiri Belohlávek (conductor).
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09-Sep-2010
BBC Proms - 2010: Prom 72: Wagner, Davies, Bruckner - Part 1
BBC PROMS 2010 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Penny Gore Bruckner, like his hero Wagner, composed on a vast scale. The BBC Symphony Orchestra's Chief Conductor, Jiri Belohlávek, pairs the festive prelude from Act 3 of Wagner's 'swan knight' romance with the most overarching and open-hearted of Bruckner's nine symphonies - a work whose slow movement was composed in the shadow of Wagner's death and enshrines Bruckner's musical memorial to the man he revered as the 'Master'. Always a composer of vivid and funky surprises, Tansy Davies promises in her new work to take us on a journey through the Tarot pack. Wagner: Lohengrin - Prelude (Act 3) Tansy Davies: Wild Card (BBC Commission; World Premiere) BBC Symphony Orchestra Jiri Belohlávek (conductor).
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08-Sep-2010
BBC Proms - 2010: Prom 70: Debussy, Stravinsky - Part 2
BBC PROMS 2010 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Suzy Klein The Orchestre National de France and Music Director Daniele Gatti present three vibrant masterpieces with Parisian connections. Debussy's subtly shifting impression of the sea, completed in Eastborne and first performed in Paris, is now one of his best-loved works. His earlier Prelude, inspired by a Mallarmé poem, alludes to the desires and dreams of the faun. Nijinsky danced his erotic choreography to Debussy's score for the Ballets russes in 1912, and this connection is followed through with Stravinsky's primeval Rite of Spring, which was performed by the Ballets russes in Paris the following year and provoked an even more sensational scandal for Diaghilev's company. Stravinsky: The Rite of Spring Orchestre National de France Daniele Gatti (conductor).
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08-Sep-2010
BBC Proms - 2010: Prom 70: Debussy, Stravinsky - Part 1
BBC PROMS 2010 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Suzy Klein The Orchestre National de France and Music Director Daniele Gatti present three vibrant masterpieces with Parisian connections. Debussy's subtly shifting impression of the sea, completed in Eastborne and first performed in Paris, is now one of his best-loved works. His earlier Prelude, inspired by a Mallarmé poem, alludes to the desires and dreams of the faun. Nijinsky danced his erotic choreography to Debussy's score for the Ballets russes in 1912, and this connection is followed through with Stravinsky's primeval Rite of Spring, which was performed by the Ballets russes in Paris the following year and provoked an even more sensational scandal for Diaghilev's company. Debussy: Prélude à l'après-midi d'un faune Debussy: La mer Orchestre National de France Daniele Gatti (conductor).
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08-Sep-2010
BBC Proms - 2010: Prom 70: Ensemble Matheus
BBC PROMS 2010 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Louise Fryer The musicians of Ensemble Matheus from Brittany in the far west of France have been making a name for themselves in recent years with their thrilling performances of Baroque music. Tonight they make their Proms debut with their founder-director Jean-Christophe Spinosi in music from the heart of their repertory, by Handel, Telemann and Vivaldi. Celebrated French countertenor Philippe Jaroussky and Canadian contralto Marie-Nicole Lemieux join the group for arias and duets by Handel and one of his greatest operatic rivals in early eighteenth-century London, Nicola Porpora - including music he wrote for the famous castrato Farinelli. Handel: Julius Caesar - Empiro dirò tu sei Vivaldi: La fida ninfa - 'Aure lievi, che spirate' Vivaldi: Orlando furioso - 'Sol da te, mio dolce amore' & 'Sorge l'irato nembo' Telemann: Concerto in E minor for recorder, flute and strings Porpora: Polifemo - 'Alto Giove' Vivaldi: Orlando furioso - 'Ah sleale...Io ti getto elmo' Vivaldi: Concerto for two violins in D major, RV 513 Vivaldi: La fida ninfa - 'Dimmi pastore' Marie-Nicole Lemieux (contralto) Philippe Jaroussky (countertenor) Laurence Paugam (violin) Alexis Kossenko (recorder) Jean-Marc Goujon (flute) Ensemble Matheus Jean-Christophe Spinosi (violin/director).
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08-Sep-2010
BBC Proms - 2010: Prom 69: Berlioz, Beethoven, MacMillan, Respighi - Part 2
BBC PROMS 2010 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Katie Derham The Royal Scottish National Orchestra and its French-born Music Director, Stéphane Denève, are joined by Paul Lewis as he completes his cycle of the five Beethoven piano concertos with the last and most proudly majestic of them all. Also featured are spectacular orchestral showpieces by Berlioz and Respighi, inspired respectively by Rome's lively street life and its imperial past; and cementing Celtic connections, the RSNO introduces a recent symphonic suite drawn from the Scottish composer James MacMillan's opera The Sacrifice, inspired by the medieval folk tales of The Mabinogion and premiered to great acclaim in 2007. James MacMillan: The Sacrifice - Three Interludes (London premiere) Respighi: Pines of Rome Paul Lewis (piano) Royal Scottish National Orchestra Stéphane Denève (conductor).
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08-Sep-2010
BBC Proms - 2010: Prom 69: Berlioz, Beethoven, MacMillan, Respighi - Part 1
BBC PROMS 2010 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Katie Derham The Royal Scottish National Orchestra and its French-born Music Director, Stéphane Denève, are joined by Paul Lewis as he completes his cycle of the five Beethoven piano concertos with the last and most proudly majestic of them all. Also featured are spectacular orchestral showpieces by Berlioz and Respighi, inspired respectively by Rome's lively street life and its imperial past; and cementing Celtic connections, the RSNO introduces a recent symphonic suite drawn from the Scottish composer James MacMillan's opera The Sacrifice, inspired by the medieval folk tales of The Mabinogion and premiered to great acclaim in 2007. Berlioz: Overture 'Roman Carnival' Beethoven: Piano Concerto No. 5 in E flat major, Op. 73 'Emperor' Paul Lewis (piano) Royal Scottish National Orchestra Stéphane Denève (conductor).
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08-Sep-2010
BBC Proms - 2010: Proms Chamber Music: 8. PCM 08 - Le Poeme Harmonique
BBC PROMS 2010 Live from Cadogan Hall, London Presented by Catherine Bott Vibrant French ensemble Le Poème Harmonique and their director Vincent Dumestre conjure up the carnivalesque atmosphere of 17th century Venice, where the streets and palaces provided a cultural melting pot for both popular and artistic styles of the day. Along with Claudio Monteverdi's expressive 'Lament of the Nymph', there's music by lesser-known contemporaries Benedetto Ferrari and Francesco Manelli, the first composer to write operas for the paying public as opposed to the privileged court. Monteverdi: Lamento della ninfa Monteverdi: Dormo Ancora (from Il Ritorno d'Ulisse in Patrria) Marini: Sonata terza Manelli: Bergamasca: La Barchetta passaggiera Manelli: Canzonetta: Sguardo lusinghiero Manelli: Jacara: Aria alla napolitana Manelli: Ciaccona: Acceso mio core Ferrari: Chi non sa come Amor Ferrari: Son ruinato, appassionato Anon: Villanella ch'all'acqua vai Le Poème Harmonique Vincent Dumestre (theorbo/baroque guitar/director) This Prom will be repeated on Saturday 11th September at 2.00pm.
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08-Sep-2010
BBC Proms - 2010: Prom 68: Bliss, Bax, Sibelius, Parry - Part 2
BBC PROMS 2010 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Andrew McGregor To complete Henry Wood day, the Ulster Orchestra and its Principal Guest Conductor Paul Watkins perform music either premiered by or closely associated with Sir Henry Wood, founder conductor of the Proms. There is inevitably a strong English flavour to the programme with works by Arthur Bliss, Arnold Bax and Hubert Parry. An English composer forgotten now, but who gained recognition in her day, is Dorothy Howell, whose symphonic poem 'Lamia' was given its first performance at a Henry Wood Prom in 1919. The other works from Russia and Finland were all given their UK premiere performances by Henry Wood - including Rachmaninov's expansive First Piano Concerto, played tonight by soloist Steven Osborne. Sibelius: Karelia Suite Parry: Symphonic Variations Tchaikovsky: Eugene Onegin - Waltz and Polonaise Steven Osborne (piano) Ulster Orchestra Paul Watkins (conductor).
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08-Sep-2010
BBC Proms - 2010: Proms Plus: Proms Literary Festival: From Howards End to Henry Wood
Matthew Sweet explores the Edwardian cultural landscape in 1910, to understand the painting, literature and theatrical performance that would have been part of the experience of the audience who attended the last night of the Proms 100 years ago. Historian Juliet Gardiner, writer Juliet Nicolson and art historian Lynda Nead join an audience at the Royal College of Music to talk about the key arts and social movements of the time, discuss the extent to which international artistic trends permeated British work, and whether the iconoclastic power of modernism would have already been evident to arts-goers of the time. Producer: Lisa Davis.
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08-Sep-2010
BBC Proms - 2010: Prom 68: Bliss, Bax, Sibelius, Parry - Part 1
BBC PROMS 2010 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Andrew McGregor To complete Henry Wood day, the Ulster Orchestra and its Principal Guest Conductor Paul Watkins perform music either premiered by or closely associated with Sir Henry Wood, founder conductor of the Proms. There is inevitably a strong English flavour to the programme with works by Arthur Bliss, Arnold Bax and Hubert Parry. An English composer forgotten now, but who gained recognition in her day, is Dorothy Howell, whose symphonic poem 'Lamia' was given its first performance at a Henry Wood Prom in 1919. The other works from Russia and Finland were all given their UK premiere performances by Henry Wood - including Rachmaninov's expansive First Piano Concerto, played tonight by soloist Steven Osborne. Bliss: Birthday Fanfare for Sir Henry Wood Bax: London Pageant Dorothy Howell: Lamia Rachmaninov: Piano Concerto No. 1 in F sharp minor (revised version) Steven Osborne (piano) Ulster Orchestra Paul Watkins (conductor).
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08-Sep-2010
BBC Proms - 2010: Prom 67: Last Night of the Proms 1910 - Part 2
BBC PROMS 2010 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Sara Mohr-Pietsch In the first of two concerts paying tribute to Proms founder conductor Sir Henry Wood, Paul Daniel joins the BBC Concert Orchestra in a recreation of the mammoth Last Night of the Proms from 1910. The original programme has been supplemented by a BBC commission, continuing Wood's commitment to new works. David Matthews' Dark Pastoral is based on a small fragment of a Cello Concerto by Vaughan Williams. Henry Wood: Fantasia on British Sea-Songs Edward German: Merrie England - 'Who were the Yeomen of England?' Dorothy Forster: Mifanwy Elgar: Pomp and Circumstance March No. 4 in G major The National Anthem Jennifer Larmore (mezzo-soprano) Sergei Leiferkus (baritone) Steven Isserlis (cello) BBC Concert Orchestra Paul Daniel (conductor).
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08-Sep-2010
BBC Proms - 2010: Prom 67: Last Night of the Proms 1910 - Part 1
BBC PROMS 2010 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Sara Mohr-Pietsch In the first of two concerts paying tribute to Proms founder conductor Sir Henry Wood, Paul Daniel joins the BBC Concert Orchestra in a recreation of the mammoth Last Night of the Proms from 1910. The original programme has been supplemented by a BBC commission, continuing Wood's commitment to new works. David Matthews' Dark Pastoral is based on a small fragment of a Cello Concerto by Vaughan Williams. Wagner: The Flying Dutchman - overture Beethoven: Rondino for wind octet Paganini, arr. Pitt: Moto perpetuo Musorgsky, orch. Henry Wood: The Peep-Show Bizet: 'L'Arlésienne - Suites Nos. 1 & 2 (excerpts) David Matthews/Vaughan Williams: Dark Pastoral (BBC commission: world premiere) Dvorák: Rondo in G minor, Op. 94 Beethoven: Overture 'Leonora' No. 3, Op. 72 Thomas: Mignon - 'Connais-tu le pays?' Dvorák, orch. Henry Wood: Humoresque in G flat major, Op. 101 No. 7 Wagner: Kaisermarsch Jennifer Larmore (mezzo-soprano) Sergei Leiferkus (baritone) Steven Isserlis (cello) BBC Concert Orchestra Paul Daniel (conductor).
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08-Sep-2010
BBC Proms - 2010: Prom 66: Wagner, Strauss, Webern, Berg - Part 2
BBC PROMS 2010 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Petroc Trelawny In the second of their two BBC Proms this year, Simon Rattle and his renowned Berlin orchestra play music from the heart of the Austro-German repertoire. The atmospheric prelude to Wagner's last opera, is followed by Richard Strauss's swansong, with popular Finnish soprano, Karita Mattila, composed in the 1940s but full of nostalgia for the first Romantic age. After the interval, music from the avant-garde maelstrom of early twentieth-century Vienna, as Schoenberg and his pupils Berg and Webern take their cue from the innovations of Wagner, Strauss and Mahler to split traditional tonality at the seams. Schoenberg: Five Pieces for Orchestra, Op. 16 (Original version 1909) Webern: Six Pieces for Orchestra, Op. 6 (1928 version) Berg: Three Pieces for Orchestra, Op. 6 (1929 version) Karita Mattila (soprano) Berliner Philharmoniker Sir Simon Rattle (conductor) This Prom will be repeated on Friday 10th September at 2.20pm.
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08-Sep-2010
BBC Proms - 2010: Prom 66: Wagner, Strauss, Webern, Berg - Part 1
BBC PROMS 2010 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Petroc Trelawny In the second of their two BBC Proms this year, Simon Rattle and his renowned Berlin orchestra play music from the heart of the Austro-German repertoire. The atmospheric prelude to Wagner's last opera, is followed by Richard Strauss's swansong, with popular Finnish soprano, Karita Mattila, composed in the 1940s but full of nostalgia for the first Romantic age. After the interval, music from the avant-garde maelstrom of early twentieth-century Vienna, as Schoenberg and his pupils Berg and Webern take their cue from the innovations of Wagner, Strauss and Mahler to split traditional tonality at the seams. Wagner: Parsifal - Prelude (Act 1) R. Strauss: Four Last Songs Karita Mattila (soprano) Berliner Philharmoniker Sir Simon Rattle (conductor) This Prom will be repeated on Friday 10th September at 2.20pm.
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08-Sep-2010
BBC Proms - 2010: Proms Chamber Music: PSM 05 - BBC Singers, Endymion
BBC PROMS 2010 Live from Cadogan Hall, London Presented by Catherine Bott Music which casts a glance over its shoulder to the works of previous generations is the keynote of this Proms Saturday Matinee, including pieces by living composers which have been inspired by the music of earlier times. Judith Weir's All the Ends of the Earth takes as its starting-point the newly-invented style of four-part singing developed at Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris in the 13th century, while Brian Ferneyhough's work for string quartet is based on music by the Tudor composer Christopher Tye. Jonathan Harvey's motet for Easter is inspired by the work of Tye's contemporary John Taverner, as is Gabriel Jackson's new piece, a BBC commission, which makes a 21st-century contribution to the popular Renaissance form initiated by Taverner, the In nomine. Completing the programme, another BBC commission by the Edinburgh-born but California-based Thea Musgrave. Ithaca sets a modern poetic description of Odysseus' epic journey back to his island home after the Trojan Wars. And - a classical companion-piece - Bayan Northcott, in his Hymn to Cybele, sets words by Catullus in honour of the wild mountain Mother-Goddess whose followers were noted for their orgiastic nocturnal dances of self-mutilation. Judith Weir: All the Ends of the Earth Thea Musgrave: Ithaca (BBC commission; World Premiere) Bayan Northcott: Hymn to Cybele Brian Ferneyhough: Dum transisset I-IV (London premiere) Taverner: Dum transisset Jonathan Harvey: Dum transisset sabbatum Taverner: Missa Gloria tibi Trinitas - In nomine Domini (Benedictus) Gabriel Jackson: In nomine Domini (BBC commission: world premiere) Arditti Quartet Endymion BBC Singers David Hill (conductor).
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04-Sep-2010
BBC Proms - 2010: Prom 65: Beethoven, Mahler - Part 2
BBC PROMS 2010 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Andrew McGregor Simon Rattle and his renowned Berlin Philharmoniker bring a feast of Austro-German classics to the Proms, in two concerts on successive nights, beginning with symphonies by Beethoven and Mahler - the youthful, precocious piece with which Mahler launched his symphonic odyssey, and Beethoven's punchy 4th Symphony, a work packed with drama beneath its sunny surfaces. Mahler: Symphony No. 1 in D major Berliner Philharmoniker Sir Simon Rattle, conductor This Prom will be repeated on Monday 13th September at 2.00pm.
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04-Sep-2010
BBC Proms - 2010: Proms Plus: Proms Literary Festival - Berlin Writing
Philip Kerr, the best-selling author of the Berlin Noir trilogy joins presenter Anne McElvoy to discuss writing inspired by the city of Berlin. He argues that Berlin is the "Ur" city of the 20th century: it was the city to which people fled after the Russian Revolution, the permissive, cultural heart of the Weimar Republic and the centre of the Cold War. The influence of Berlin on British writers and artists has been tremendous and there'll be excerpts of writing by Stephen Spender, Christopher Isherwood, John Le Carre and David Bowie. Their conversation is recorded in front of an audience at the Royal College of Music as part of this year's Proms Literary Festival.
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04-Sep-2010
BBC Proms - 2010: Prom 65: Beethoven, Mahler - Part 1
BBC PROMS 2010 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Andrew McGregor Simon Rattle and his renowned Berlin Philharmoniker bring a feast of Austro-German classics to the Proms, in two concerts on successive nights, beginning with symphonies by Beethoven and Mahler - the youthful, precocious piece with which Mahler launched his symphonic odyssey, and Beethoven's punchy 4th Symphony, a work packed with drama beneath its sunny surfaces. Beethoven: Symphony No. 4 in B flat major Berliner Philharmoniker Sir Simon Rattle, conductor This Prom will be repeated on Monday 13th September at 2.00pm.
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03-Sep-2010
BBC Proms - 2010: Prom 64: WF Bach, Arne, Pergolesi
BBC PROMS 2010 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Tom Service The Early Opera Company and its conductor Christian Curnyn feature three composers born in 1710 who straddled the divide between the baroque and classical styles. Thomas Arne was the leading figure in London in his day, and his symphonies show off the latest trends in taste and refinement. JS Bach's eldest son, Wilhelm Friedemann, showed great promise, but had a disappointingly uneven career, although his music forged a new path. Pergolesi's Stabat Mater, a work of great lyrical beauty, is still as popular today as it was in the composer's tragically short lifetime. W. F. Bach: Sinfonia in D minor Arne: Symphony No. 4 in C minor Pergolesi: Stabat mater Elizabeth Watts, soprano Anna Stephany, mezzo-soprano Early Opera Company Christian Curnyn, conductor.
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03-Sep-2010
BBC Proms - 2010: Prom 63: Rameau, Canteloube, Matalon, Mussorgsky - Part 2
BBC PROMS 2010 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Louise Fryer The BBC National Orchestra of Wales' French-born associate conductor, François-Xavier Roth, directs a mainly French-flavoured programme beginning with a brilliant suite by Rameau and a selection of Canteloube's seductive folk song settings. The title of Paris-based Argentinian composer Martin Matalon's new work translates as 'Lines of Flight' and relates to a technique in drawing where added lines produce depth and perspective in a picture. Finally a rarely-heard version of Musorgsky's Pictures at an Exhibition, orchestrated with characteristic flair and imagination by founder of the Proms, Sir Henry Wood. Martin Matalon: Lignes de fuite (UK premiere) Musorgsky, arr. Henry Wood: Pictures at an Exhibition Anna Caterina Antonacci, soprano BBC National Orchestra of Wales François-Xavier Roth, conductor This prom will be repeated on Thursday 9th September at 2.20pm.
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03-Sep-2010
BBC Proms - 2010: Proms Plus: Proms Literary Festival - Poetry about Music
Ian McMillan presents a Proms Literary Festival programme recorded in front of an audience at the Royal College of Music, exploring poetry about music. Poetry and music have been associated from the earliest tradition of oral epic poetry, and music has inspired poets from Shakespeare to Emily Dickinson, for example in her work "Musicians wrestle everywhere" Tonight's guests, David Harsent and Jo Shapcott, have both been inspired to writer poems about music. David's recent collection includes "Duet" and "Harp Strings" and he has regularly worked with Harrison Birtwistle to write libretti for opera, including The Minotaur. Jo Shapcott poems include "Shapcott's Variations" and she has written lyrics for or had her words set to music by composers such as John McCabe, Detlev Glamert, Errolyn Wallen and John Woolrich. David Harsent and Jo Shapcott join Ian McMillan to explore how the subject of music itself inspires poets, the difference between writing poetry and writing libretti, and the orchestration of a poem.
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03-Sep-2010
BBC Proms - 2010: Prom 63: Rameau, Canteloube, Matalon, Mussorgsky - Part 1
BBC PROMS 2010 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Louise Fryer The BBC National Orchestra of Wales' French-born associate conductor, François-Xavier Roth, directs a mainly French-flavoured programme beginning with a brilliant suite by Rameau and a selection of Canteloube's seductive folk song settings. The title of Paris-based Argentinian composer Martin Matalon's new work translates as 'Lines of Flight' and relates to a technique in drawing where added lines produce depth and perspective in a picture. Finally a rarely-heard version of Musorgsky's Pictures at an Exhibition, orchestrated with characteristic flair and imagination by founder of the Proms, Sir Henry Wood. Rameau: Dardanus - suite Canteloube: Songs of the Auvergne - selection Anna Caterina Antonacci, soprano BBC National Orchestra of Wales François-Xavier Roth, conductor This prom will be repeated on Thursday 9th September at 2.20pm.
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02-Sep-2010
BBC Proms - 2010: Prom 62: Hindemith, Mahler, Bruckner - Part 2
BBC PROMS 2010 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Suzy Klein The Proms welcomes the last of its youth orchestras for this season. The Gustav Mahler Youth Orchestra was founded 25 years ago by Claudio Abbado and nowadays chooses from among the world's leading conductors for its tours. The veteran Swedish maestro Herbert Blomstedt has made something of a speciality of the music of Hindemith and Bruckner and the concert features symphonies by both composers - the orchestral work that Hindemith based on his opera about 'Mathis the Painter' and Bruckner's final unfinished masterpiece. Between these symphonies, the leading German baritone Christian Gerhaher sings Mahler's youthful 'Songs of a Wayfarer', telling of a young man's unrequited love. Bruckner: Symphony No. 9 in D minor Christian Gerhaher, baritone Gustav Mahler Jugendorchester Herbert Blomstedt, conductor This Prom will be repeated on Thursday 16th September at 2.00pm.
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02-Sep-2010
BBC Proms - 2010: Prom 62: Hindemith, Mahler, Bruckner - Part 1
BBC PROMS 2010 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Suzy Klein The Proms welcomes the last of its youth orchestras for this season. The Gustav Mahler Youth Orchestra was founded 25 years ago by Claudio Abbado and nowadays chooses from among the world's leading conductors for its tours. The veteran Swedish maestro Herbert Blomstedt has made something of a speciality of the music of Hindemith and Bruckner and the concert features symphonies by both composers - the orchestral work that Hindemith based on his opera about 'Mathis the Painter' and Bruckner's final unfinished masterpiece. Between these symphonies, the leading German baritone Christian Gerhaher sings Mahler's youthful 'Songs of a Wayfarer', telling of a young man's unrequited love. Hindemith: Symphony 'Mathis der Maler' Mahler: Lieder eines fahrenden Gesellen Christian Gerhaher, baritone Gustav Mahler Jugendorchester Herbert Blomstedt, conductor This Prom will be repeated on Thursday 16th September at 2.00pm.
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01-Sep-2010
BBC Proms - 2010: Prom 61: 2. Hansel und Gretel - Act 3
BBC PROMS 2010 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Martin Handley Glyndebourne Festival Opera brings Hansel and Gretel to the Proms. Humperdinck's tuneful opera adds layers of psychological meaning to Grimm's fairy tale of abandoned children, absent parents and things that go bump in the woods at night. A delicious blend of styles from the fairy-music of Mendelssohn to the opulent harmonies and orchestration of Wagner, this is children's opera for grown-ups. Act III Alice Coote, Hänsel Lydia Teuscher, Gretel Irmgard Vilsmaier, Mother William Dazeley, Father Wolfgang Ablinger-Sperrhacke, Witch Tara Erraught, Sandman Ida Falk Winland, Dew Fairy Glyndebourne Festival Chorus London Philharmonic Orchestra Robin Ticciati, conductor.
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01-Sep-2010
BBC Proms - 2010: Proms Plus: Proms Literary Festival - Hansel and Gretel
Ian McMillan is joined by Anne Fine, former Children's Laureate and prize-winning author, and the well-known child psychotherapist Margaret Rustin to discuss the manifold and sometimes unexpected themes of the Grimm Brothers' 'Hansel and Gretel', the many interpretations it has been given and the story's continuing relevance to children today. Recorded in front of an audience at the Royal College of Music as part of the Proms Literary Festival, prior to a BBC Proms performance of Humperdinck's operatic version of the story.
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01-Sep-2010
BBC Proms - 2010: Prom 61: 1. Hansel und Gretel - Acts 1, 2
BBC PROMS 2010 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Martin Handley Glyndebourne Festival Opera brings Hansel und Gretel to the Proms. Humperdinck's tuneful opera adds layers of psychological meaning to Grimm's fairy tale of abandoned children, absent parents and things that go bump in the woods at night. A delicious blend of styles from the fairy-music of Mendelssohn to the opulent harmonies and orchestration of Wagner, this is children's opera for grown-ups. Humperdinck: Hänsel und Gretel (semi-staged; sung in German) Acts I & II Alice Coote, Hänsel Lydia Teuscher, Gretel Irmgard Vilsmaier, Mother William Dazeley, Father Wolfgang Ablinger-Sperrhacke, Witch Tara Erraught, Sandman Ida Falk Winland, Dew Fairy Glyndebourne Festival Chorus London Philharmonic Orchestra Robin Ticciati, conductor.
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31-Aug-2010
BBC Proms - 2010: Prom 60: Walton, Arnol, Bernstein, Gershwin - Part 2
BBC PROMS 2010 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Katie Derham Making his Proms debut, the BBC Concert Orchestra's new Principal Conductor Keith Lockhart brings some American dazzle to the Royal Albert Hall, along with some classic pieces associated with his other orchestra, the Boston Pops. The programme includes a BBC commission from Graham Fitkin, who has composed PK for combined forces of the BBC Concert Orchestra and a family community group of musicians from Cornwall where he lives. Bernstein: West Side Story - Symphonic Dances Gershwin: Shall We Dance? - Promenade ('Walking the Dog') John Williams: Hook - Flight to Neverland Various: You Must Remember This: A Cinematic Sing-Along Warren, arr. Don Sebesky: 42nd Street BBC Proms Family Orchestra & Chorus Graham Fitkin, conductor Lincoln Abbotts, conductor BBC Concert Orchestra Keith Lockhart, conductor.
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31-Aug-2010
BBC Proms - 2010: Prom 60: Walton, Arnold, Bernstein, Gershwin - Part 1
BBC PROMS 2010 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Katie Derham Making his Proms debut, the BBC Concert Orchestra's new Principal Conductor Keith Lockhart brings some American dazzle to the Royal Albert Hall, along with some classic pieces associated with his other orchestra, the Boston Pops. The programme includes a BBC commission from Graham Fitkin, who has composed PK for combined forces of the BBC Concert Orchestra and a family community group of musicians from Cornwall where he lives. Walton: Spitfire Prelude and Fugue Butterworth: The Banks of Green Willow Arnold: Four Cornish Dances Graham Fitkin: PK (BBC commission: world premiere) BBC Proms Family Orchestra & Chorus Graham Fitkin, conductor Lincoln Abbotts, conductor BBC Concert Orchestra Keith Lockhart, conductor.
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31-Aug-2010
BBC Proms - 2010: Proms Chamber Music: 7. PCM 07 - Lars Vogt
BBC PROMS 2010 Live from the Cadogan Hall, London Presented by Catherine Bott. Following his Proms performance of Grieg's Concerto last night, pianist Lars Vogt plays a more intimate concert of chamber works. The recital begins with Janacek's impressionistic last major piano work, it's 'mistiness' captured in these miniatures by evocative harmonies and constantly shifting perspectives. Schubert's Sonata is by contrast one of his more expansive solo works in which the easy-going tone is interrupted by anguished outbursts, though the mood lightens again for the playful conclusion. Janacek: In the Mists Schubert: Piano Sonata in G major, D894 Lars Vogt, piano This Prom will be repeated on Saturday 4th September at 2.00pm.
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31-Aug-2010
BBC Proms - 2010: Prom 59: Children's Prom - Part 2
BBC PROMS 2010 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Louise Fryer The dynamic young conductor Nicholas Collon and his Aurora Orchestra take a whistle-stop tour through some exciting and enchanting moments in classical music for this Children's Prom. Helping them on their journey are talented young musicians from the National Children's and National Youth Chamber Orchestras. Adding to the fun onstage are Capoeira dancers, and a few additional surprises along the way. Rimsky-Korsakov: Flight of the Bumblebee Prokofiev :Romeo and Juliet - Montagues and Capulets Satie, orch. Debussy: Gymnopédie No. 1 Shostakovich: Symphony No. 10, 2nd movement Chris WIllis: 'Mash-Up' Bernstein: Candide Overture Aurora Orchestra National Children's Chamber Orchestra National Youth Chamber Orchestra Nicholas Collon, conductor.
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31-Aug-2010
BBC Proms - 2010: Prom 59: Children's Prom - Part 1
BBC PROMS 2010 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Louise Fryer The dynamic young conductor Nicholas Collon and his Aurora Orchestra take a whistle-stop tour through some exciting and enchanting moments in classical music for this Children's Prom. Helping them on their journey are talented young musicians from the National Children's and National Youth Chamber Orchestras. Adding to the fun onstage are Capoeira dancers, and a few additional surprises along the way. Gabrieli: Canzon from the Sacrae Symphoniae Lully: Alceste Suite - Louré pour les pecheurs John Adams: Chamber Symphony - Finale Bach (arr. Chris Willis): Fugue Brahms: Hungarian Dance No. 5 in F sharp minor Aurora Orchestra National Children's Chamber Orchestra National Youth Chamber Orchestra Nicholas Collon, conductor.
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30-Aug-2010
BBC Proms - 2010: Prom 58: Dvorak, Martinu, Grieg, Janacek - Part 3
BBC PROMS 2010 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Petroc Trelawny Sir John Eliot Gardiner and the visiting Czech Philharmonic Orchestra frame their programme with Dvorak's ebullient, life-affirming Carnival Overture and his radiant 8th Symphony. In between, Martinu's 6th Symphony dances with Czech and Moravian folk melodies and rhythms; there's a detour to the Norwegian fjords for Grieg's Piano Concerto with Lars Vogt; and back to the Moravian Janacek whose gentle Ballad of Blanik was inspired by recent Czech independence and the new nation's legendary guardians. Janácek: The Ballad of Blaník Dvorák: Symphony No. 8 in G major Lars Vogt, piano Czech Philhamonic Orchestra Sir John Eliot Gardiner, conductor This Prom will be repeated on Tuesday 7th September at 2.20pm.
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30-Aug-2010
BBC Proms - 2010: Proms Plus: Proms Literary Festival - Surrealists
An examination of Czech genius from Kafka and Capek to Hrabal and beyond. Rana Mitter and his guests Rajendra Chitnis and James Hawes explode the stereotype of a nation enchanted by erotic surrealism and existential gloom. Producer: Zahid Warley.
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30-Aug-2010
BBC Proms - 2010: Prom 58: Dvorak, Martinu, Grieg, Janacek - Part 2
BBC PROMS 2010 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Petroc Trelawny Sir John Eliot Gardiner and the visiting Czech Philharmonic Orchestra frame their programme with Dvorak's ebullient, life-affirming Carnival Overture and his radiant 8th Symphony. In between, Martinu's 6th Symphony dances with Czech and Moravian folk melodies and rhythms; there's a detour to the Norwegian fjords for Grieg's Piano Concerto with Lars Vogt; and back to the Moravian Janacek whose gentle Ballad of Blanik was inspired by recent Czech independence and the new nation's legendary guardians. Grieg: Piano Concerto in A minor Lars Vogt, piano Czech Philhamonic Orchestra Sir John Eliot Gardiner, conductor This Prom will be repeated on Tuesday 7th September at 2.20pm.
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30-Aug-2010
BBC Proms - 2010: Prom 58: Dvorak, Martinu, Grieg, Janacek - Part 1
BBC PROMS 2010 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Petroc Trelawny Sir John Eliot Gardiner and the visiting Czech Philharmonic Orchestra frame their programme with Dvorak's ebullient, life-affirming Carnival Overture and his radiant 8th Symphony. In between, Martinu's 6th Symphony dances with Czech and Moravian folk melodies and rhythms; there's a detour to the Norwegian fjords for Grieg's Piano Concerto with Lars Vogt; and back to the Moravian Janacek whose gentle Ballad of Blanik was inspired by recent Czech independence and the new nation's legendary guardians. Dvorák: Overture, 'Carnival' Martinu: Fantaisies symphoniques (Symphony No. 6) Lars Vogt, piano Czech Philhamonic Orchestra Sir John Eliot Gardiner, conductor This Prom will be repeated on Tuesday 7th September at 2.20pm.
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29-Aug-2010
BBC Proms - 2010: Prom 57: Berg, Beethoven - Part 2
BBC PROMS 2010 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Penny Gore. In the second concert of their visit to the Proms, the Minnesota Orchestra and Osmo Vanska perform Berg's last completed work alongside Beethoven's final symphony. Violinist Gil Shaham is the soloist in Berg's concerto: a heartfelt tribute to a dead friend and dedicated "To the memory of an angel", and for the annual Proms performance of Beethoven's 9th - a work championing the brotherhood of humanity - the orchestra are joined by a line-up of international soloists and the BBC Symphony Chorus. Beethoven: Symphony No. 9 in D minor, 'Choral' Gil Shaham, violin Helena Juntunen, soprano Charlotte Hellekant, mezzo-soprano Eric Cutler, tenor Neal Davies, bass BBC Symphony Chorus Minnesota Orchestra Osmo Vänskä, conductor This Prom will be repeated on Monday 6th September at 2.00pm.
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29-Aug-2010
BBC Proms - 2010: Prom 57: Berg, Beethoven - Part 1
BBC PROMS 2010 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Penny Gore. In the second concert of their visit to the Proms, the Minnesota Orchestra and Osmo Vanska perform Berg's last completed work alongside Beethoven's final symphony. Violinist Gil Shaham is the soloist in Berg's concerto: a heartfelt tribute to a dead friend and dedicated "To the memory of an angel", and for the annual Proms performance of Beethoven's 9th - a work championing the brotherhood of humanity - the orchestra are joined by a line-up of international soloists and the BBC Symphony Chorus. Berg: Violin Concerto Gil Shaham, violin Helena Juntunen, soprano Charlotte Hellekant, mezzo-soprano Eric Cutler, tenor Neal Davies, bass BBC Symphony Chorus Minnesota Orchestra Osmo Vänskä, conductor This Prom will be repeated on Monday 6th September at 2.00pm.
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29-Aug-2010
BBC Proms - 2010: Proms Chamber Music: PSM 04 - Nash Ensemble, Robin Holloway
BBC Proms 2010 Live from Cadogan Hall, London Presented by Catherine Bott The Nash Ensemble and tenor Toby Spence perform a programme combining past and present with music by Schumann and Robin Holloway. Robin Holloway's 5 Fantasy-Pieces frame the Schumann song-cycle that inspired them, and the concert ends with Schumann's romantic Piano Quartet. Holloway: Fantasy-Pieces (on the Heine 'Liederkreis' of Schumann) Op.16 Schumann: Liederkreis, Op.24 Schumann: Piano Quartet in E flat major, Op.47 Toby Spence, tenor Ian Brown, piano Nash Ensemble Edward Gardner, conductor.
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29-Aug-2010
BBC Proms - 2010: Proms Plus: Proms Literary Festival - Schiller
Rana Mitter is joined by singer-songwriter Billy Bragg, verse playwright Peter Oswald and poet David Constantine to discuss Friedrich Schiller's Ode to Joy, famously set to music by Beethoven in his 9th Symphony which will be performed as part of tonight's Prom. Both Schiller and Beethoven saw Europe torn apart by war and revolution. Our guests tonight discuss how the optimism of the Ode to Joy, Friedrich Schiller's great work on unity and brotherhood, is tempered by an anxiety about the realities of war. The sentiments of the poem have a continuing universal appeal - it was performed by Leonard Bernstein to celebrate the fall of the Berlin Wall, has become the anthem of the European Union, and Billy Bragg created a version to be sung by choirs of English schoolchildren. Rana Mitter and guests explore different versions of the Ode to Joy in a Proms Literary Festival programme recorded in front of an audience at the Royal College of Music. Producer: Allegra McIlroy.
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28-Aug-2010
BBC Proms - 2010: Prom 56: Barber, Shostakovich, Bruckner - Part 2
BBC PROMS 2010 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Rob Cowan The first of two Proms given by the Minnesota Orchestra from the United States led by their Chief Conductor Osmo Vanska. Tonight they begin with a rarely-heard work by Samuel Barber, a cinematically imagined tone poem which he wrote as a young man after reading Shelly's 'Prometheus Unbound'. Shostakovich's 1st Cello Concerto - one of the most popular works in the cello repertoire but also one of the most difficult - is performed by young American cellist Alisa Weilerstein and the concert ends with Bruckner's 4th Symphony, labelled 'Romantic' by the composer and inspired by tales of medieval romance. Bruckner: Symphony No.4 in E flat major - "Romantic" Alisa Weilerstein, cello Minnesota Orchestra Osmo Vänskä, conductor This Prom will be repeated on Friday 3rd September at 2.00pm.
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28-Aug-2010
BBC Proms - 2010: Proms Plus: Proms Intro - Minnesota
Martin Handley presents a Proms Plus event from the Royal College of Music, with Brian Newhouse, host of the Minnesota Orchestra's broadcasts, and violist Sam Bergman, who discuss the works in tonight's Prom and orchestral life in Minnesota.
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28-Aug-2010
BBC Proms - 2010: Prom 56: Barber, Shostakovich, Bruckner - Part 1
BBC PROMS 2010 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Rob Cowan The first of two Proms given by the Minnesota Orchestra from the United States led by their Chief Conductor Osmo Vanska. Tonight they begin with a rarely-heard work by Samuel Barber, a cinematically imagined tone poem which he wrote as a young man after reading Shelley's 'Prometheus Unbound'. Shostakovich's 1st Cello Concerto - one of the most popular works in the cello repertoire but also one of the most difficult - is performed by young American cellist Alisa Weilerstein and the concert ends with Bruckner's 4th Symphony, labelled 'Romantic' by the composer and inspired by tales of medieval romance. Barber: Music for a Scene from Shelley Shostakovich: Cello Concerto No.1 in E flat major Alisa Weilerstein, cello Minnesota Orchestra Osmo Vänskä, conductor This Prom will be repeated on Friday 3rd September at 2.00pm.
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27-Aug-2010
BBC Proms - 2010: Prom 55 - Jamie Cullum
BBC PROMS 2010 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Suzy Klein Jazz singer, songwriter and pianist Jamie Cullum is joined by the Heritage Orchestra to perform a set of classic number is this Late Night Prom. Cullum has spent the last 10 years forging his own unique brand of music, influenced by pop, rock and electronica, but always with jazz at its core. Tonight he is joined by the Heritage Orchestra - a 40-piece line-up originally formed to play at London's Cargo club, and always found at the cutting edge of boundary-crossing musical projects.
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27-Aug-2010
BBC Proms - 2010: Prom 54: Turnage, Barber, Sibelius - Part 2
BBC PROMS 2010 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Andrew McGregor The BBC Symphony Orchestra's Principal Guest Conductor, David Robertson, conducts two enduring works by composers who fashioned a new aesthetic out of Romantic roots, and the world premiere of a new commission in his 50th-birthday year from jazz-inspired Mark-Anthony Turnage, who has resolved not to write 'an old man's piece'! The expansive melodies and edgy pace of centenary composer Samuel Barber are at their most powerful in the Violin Concerto, played here by Israeli-American virtuoso Gil Shaham. Sibelius's Second Symphony traces a path from terse drama to great affirmation. Sibelius: Symphony No.2 in D major Gil Shaham, violin BBC Symphony Orchestra David Robertson, conductor This Prom is repeated on Wednesday 8th September at 2.00pm.
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27-Aug-2010
BBC Proms - 2010: Prom 54: Turner, Barber, Sibelius - Part 1
BBC PROMS 2010 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Andrew McGregor The BBC Symphony Orchestra's Principal Guest Conductor, David Robertson, conducts two enduring works by composers who fashioned a new aesthetic out of Romantic roots, and the world premiere of a new commission in his 50th-birthday year from jazz-inspired Mark-Anthony Turnage, who has resolved not to write 'an old man's piece'! The expansive melodies and edgy pace of centenary composer Samuel Barber are at their most powerful in the Violin Concerto, played here by Israeli-American virtuoso Gil Shaham. Sibelius's Second Symphony traces a path from terse drama to great affirmation. Mark-Anthony Turnage: Hammered Out (World Premiere - BBC co-commission with Los Angeles Phiharmonic) Barber: Violin Concerto Gil Shaham, violin BBC Symphony Orchestra David Robertson, conductor This Prom is repeated on Wednesday 8th September at 2.00pm.
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26-Aug-2010
BBC Proms - 2010: Prom 53: Mozart, Sorensen, Grieg - Part 2
BBC PROMS 2010 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Fiona Talkington The Norwegian Chamber Orchestra performs with joint Artistic Director Isabelle van Keulen and Principal Guest Director Leif Ove Andsnes leading from violin and piano respectively. Two contrasting works by Mozart - the sparkling 'Haffner' Symphony and the more dramatic C minor Piano Concerto - frame Scandinavian pieces new and old: Grieg's beloved string-orchestra classic and Danish Bent Sørensen's new piano concerto, La mattina, which the composer regards as containing both his 'darkest and most profound' music. Grieg: Holberg Suite Mozart: Piano Concerto No. 24 in C minor, K491 Leif Ove Andsnes, piano/director Norwegian Chamber Orchestra Isabelle van Keulen, director/leader *Per Kristian Skalstad, conductor This Prom is repeated on Thursday 2nd September at 2.00pm.
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26-Aug-2010
BBC Proms - 2010: Proms Plus: Proms Intro - The Norwegian Chamber Orchestra
The Artistic Directors of the Norwegian Chamber Orchestra, Isabelle van Keulen and Terje Tønnesen, join Fiona Talkington to discuss the work of the orchestra, and composer Bent Sørensen talks about his new piano concerto, La mattina, receiving its UK premiere this evening.
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26-Aug-2010
BBC Proms - 2010: Prom 53: Mozart, Sorensen, Grieg - Part 1
BBC PROMS 2010 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Fiona Talkington The Norwegian Chamber Orchestra performs with joint Artistic Director Isabelle van Keulen and Principal Guest Director Leif Ove Andsnes leading from violin and piano respectively. Two contrasting works by Mozart - the sparkling 'Haffner' Symphony and the more dramatic C minor Piano Concerto - frame Scandinavian pieces new and old: Grieg's beloved string-orchestra classic and Danish Bent Sørensen's new piano concerto, La mattina, which the composer regards as containing both his 'darkest and most profound' music. Mozart: Symphony No. 35 in D major, K385 'Haffner' Bent Sørensen: La mattina* (UK premiere) Leif Ove Andsnes, piano/director Norwegian Chamber Orchestra Isabelle van Keulen, director/leader *Per Kristian Skalstad, conductor This Prom is repeated on Thursday 2nd September at 2.00pm.
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25-Aug-2010
BBC Proms - 2010: Prom 52: Strauss, Ravel, Scriabin - Part 2
BBC PROMS 2010 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Suzy Klein Vladimir Ashkenazy and the visiting Sydney Symphony perform Richard Strauss's lushly romantic waltzes which conjure up eighteenth-century Vienna, and Scriabin's multi-coloured Third Symphony which portrays the cosmic dance between the human spirit and the cosmos. French-born pianist Hélène Grimaud joins them for Ravel's Piano Concerto in G, which dances to the rhythms of the Jazz Age. Scriabin: Symphony No.3 in C major - "The Divine Poem" Hélène Grimaud, piano Sydney Symphony Vladimir Ashkenazy, conductor This Prom is repeated on Tuesday 31st August at 2.00pm.
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25-Aug-2010
BBC Proms - 2010: Proms Plus: Proms Literary Festival: Divine Poetry
Composer James MacMillan, whose music often reflects his Catholic faith, and religious poet Michael Symmons Roberts explore the relationship between poetry and the divine. From John Donne to Elizabeth Bishop to John Berryman, writers have used poetry to contemplate the sacred. And poetry has in turn inspired composers in their own exploration of the divine, from Elgar's Dream of Gerontius, a personal favourite of James Macmillan, to Alexander Scriabin's The Divine Poem which is part of tonight's BBC Prom. James Macmillan and Michael Symmons Roberts have often worked together to create new poems and new compositions. They join presenter Susan Hitch and an audience at the Royal College of Music to share their ideas on why poetry is the written form that lends itself to musings on the divine, why it continues to appeal to composers, and how music and language can illuminate each other. Recorded in front of an audience at the Royal College of Music as part of this year's Proms Literary Festival. Producer: Allegra McIlroy.
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25-Aug-2010
BBC Proms - 2010: Prom 52: Strauss, Ravel, Scriabin - Part 1
BBC PROMS 2010 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Suzy Klein Vladimir Ashkenazy and the visiting Sydney Symphony perform Richard Strauss's lushly romantic waltzes which conjure up eighteenth-century Vienna, and Scriabin's multi-coloured Third Symphony which portrays the cosmic dance between the human spirit and the cosmos. French-born pianist Hélène Grimaud joins them for Ravel's Piano Concerto in G, which dances to the rhythms of the Jazz Age. R. Strauss: Der Rosenkavalier - suite Ravel: Piano Concerto in G major Hélène Grimaud, piano Sydney Symphony Vladimir Ashkenazy, conductor This Prom is repeated on Tuesday 31st August at 2.00pm.
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24-Aug-2010
BBC Proms - 2010: Prom 51: Schumann, Berlioz, Schnelzer, Schumann - Part 2
BBC PROMS 2010 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Martin Handley Swedish soprano Nina Stemme sings Berlioz's tender songs of love sought, found and lost with the Swedish Chamber Orchestra, Örebro, conducted by Thomas Dausgaard. Also in the programme, romantic symphonies by Schumann and a new work by Albert Schnelzer. Eight years before he began his First Symphony in 1841, Schumann began an earlier one. Thomas Dausgaard - who has recorded a complete Schumann cycle with his agile Swedish Chamber Orchestra - opens with its sprightly first movement and ends the Proms' Schumann bicentenary symphony cycle with the biggest and most stirring of the set. Swedish composer Albert Schnelzer pays tribute both to Haydn's playful character and to film director Tim Burton, born in the Californian city of Burbank. Albert Schnelzer: A Freak in Burbank (UK premiere) Schumann: Symphony No. 2 in C major Nina Stemme, soprano Swedish Chamber Orchestra, Örebro Thomas Dausgaard, conductor This Prom is repeated on Monday 30th August at 2.00pm.
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24-Aug-2010
BBC Proms - 2010: Prom 51: Schumann, Berlioz, Schnelzer - Part 1
BBC PROMS 2010 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Martin Handley Swedish soprano Nina Stemme sings Berlioz's tender songs of love sought, found and lost with the Swedish Chamber Orchestra, Örebro, conducted by Thomas Dausgaard. Also in the programme, romantic symphonies by Schumann and a new work by Albert Schnelzer. Eight years before he began his First Symphony in 1841, Schumann began an earlier one. Thomas Dausgaard - who has recorded a complete Schumann cycle with his agile Swedish Chamber Orchestra - opens with its sprightly first movement and ends the Proms' Schumann bicentenary symphony cycle with the biggest and most stirring of the set. Swedish composer Albert Schnelzer pays tribute both to Haydn's playful character and to film director Tim Burton, born in the Californian city of Burbank. Schumann: Symphony in G minor, 'Zwickau' (incomplete) Berlioz: Les nuits d'été Nina Stemme, soprano Swedish Chamber Orchestra, Örebro Thomas Dausgaard, conductor This Prom is repeated on Monday 30th August at 2.00pm.
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24-Aug-2010
BBC Proms - 2010: Proms Chamber Music: PCM 06: 6. Stile Antico
BBC PROMS CHAMBER MUSIC 2010 Live from Cadogan Hall, London Presented by Louise Fryer The young British vocal ensemble Stile Antico perform The Song of Songs - sensuous polyphonic music from the courts of Renaissance Europe. The programme celebrates some of the greatest composers of the age, with works by Ceballos, Clemens non Papa, Gombert, Guerrero, Lassus, Palestrina, Praetorius, Victoria and Vivanco, interspersed with plainchant. Repeated on Saturday 28th August at 2.00pm.
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23-Aug-2010
BBC Proms - 2010: Prom 50: Mozart, Bartok, Haydn - Part 2
BBC PROMS 2010 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Louise Fryer The BBC Symphony Orchestra's Principal Guest Conductor, David Robertson, makes the first of two appearances this season. Between Mozart's final operatic overture and the most determinedly optimistic of Haydn's 'London' symphonies come two contrasting works by Bartók: the unusually mellow and good-humoured Piano Concerto No. 3, featuring distinguished pianist Richard Goode, and the compact burst of fierce vocal virtuosity in which Bartók retells the Romanian coming-of-age parable of nine young hunters fleeing their roost. Bartók: Cantata profana Haydn: Symphony No.102 in B flat major Richard Goode, piano Nicholas Phan, tenor Ashley Holland, baritone BBC Singers BBC Symphony Chorus BBC Symphony Orchestra David Robertson, conductor.
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23-Aug-2010
BBC Proms - 2010: Prom 50: Mozart, Bartok, Haydn - Part 1
BBC PROMS 2010 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Louise Fryer The BBC Symphony Orchestra's Principal Guest Conductor, David Robertson, makes the first of two appearances this season. Between Mozart's final operatic overture and the most determinedly optimistic of Haydn's 'London' symphonies come two contrasting works by Bartók: the unusually mellow and good-humoured Piano Concerto No. 3, featuring distinguished pianist Richard Goode, and the compact burst of fierce vocal virtuosity in which Bartók retells the Romanian coming-of-age parable of nine young hunters fleeing their roost. Mozart: The Magic Flute - Overture Bartók: Piano Concerto No.3 Richard Goode, piano Nicholas Phan, tenor Ashley Holland, baritone BBC Singers BBC Symphony Chorus BBC Symphony Orchestra David Robertson, conductor.
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23-Aug-2010
BBC Proms - 2010: Prom 49 - A Celebration of Rodgers and Hammerstein
BBC PROMS 2010 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Petroc Trelawny Kim Criswell heads the cast marking the 50th anniversary of the death of American lyricist Oscar Hammerstein II. With the John Wilson Orchestra under John Wilson they perform a glorious medley of songs from the evergreen musicals Hammerstein wrote with composer Richard Rodgers, the Waltz king of the musical. From the ground-breaking scores of Oklahoma! and the dark-themed Carousel, to the family favourites - The King and I and The Sound of Music. Musicals expert John Wilson conducts the lushly-scored movie orchestrations. Featuring excerpts from Oklahoma!, Carousel, South Pacific, The King and I, Flower Drum Song and The Sound of Music. Kim Criswell, Sierra Bogess, Julian Ovenden, Anna-Jane Casey and Rod Gilfry, vocalists Maida Vale Singers John Wilson Orchestra John Wilson, conductor.
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22-Aug-2010
BBC Proms - 2010: Prom 48: Wagner, Mahler, Beethoven - Part 2
BBC PROMS 2010 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Rob Cowan The young Montreal-born Yannick Nézet-Séguin has quickly become one of the names to watch among conductors. He brings the orchestra of which he is now Music Director to the Proms for a concert that includes one of Wagner's early operatic overtures and Beethoven's groundbreaking 3rd Symphony. Orchestra and conductor are joined by one of the world's leading baritones, Simon Keenlyside, for Mahler's poignant songs setting poems by Friedrich Rückert on the subjects of life, love and death. Beethoven: Symphony No.3 in E flat major "Eroica" Simon Keenlyside, baritone Rotterdam Philharmonic Orchestra Yannick Nézet-Séguin, conductor This Prom will be repeated on Tuesday 14th September at 2.00pm.
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22-Aug-2010
BBC Proms - 2010: Proms Plus: Proms Literary Festival: Romanticism
Matthew Sweet is joined by critic Jonathan Bate and playwright Gabriel Gbadamosi to discuss the shared themes of the Romantic movement - the emotion and intuition which connect its poetry, visual art and music. Romanticism means Brahms, Schumann, Schubert and Chopin but how did their work link to Byron, Keats, Blake and Heine? Recorded in front of an audience at the Royal College of Music.
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22-Aug-2010
BBC Proms - 2010: Prom 48: Wagner, Mahler, Beethoven - Part 1
BBC PROMS 2010 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Rob Cowan The young Montreal-born Yannick Nézet-Séguin has quickly become one of the names to watch among conductors. He brings the orchestra of which he is now Music Director to the Proms for a concert that includes one of Wagner's early operatic overtures and Beethoven's groundbreaking 3rd Symphony. Orchestra and conductor are joined by one of the world's leading baritones, Simon Keenlyside, for Mahler's poignant songs setting poems by Friedrich Rückert on the subjects of life, love and death. Wagner: Tannhäuser - Overture Mahler: Rückert-Lieder Simon Keenlyside, baritone Rotterdam Philharmonic Orchestra Yannick Nézet-Séguin, conductor This Prom will be repeated on Tuesday 14th September at 2.00pm.
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22-Aug-2010
BBC Proms - 2010: Proms Chamber Music: PSM 03 - I Fagiolini
BBC PROMS 2010 Proms Saturday Matinee live from Cadogan Hall, London Presented by Louise Fryer. Two leading vocal and instrumental ensembles combine for a programme of music from the Renaissance to the present. Britten quoted Dowland's well-known lute song in his Lachrymae, which spotlights the viola, and former Radio 3 New Generation Artist Lawrence Power also appears in Israeli composer Betty Olivero's war-torn work that draws on Monteverdi's L'Orfeo, as well as the laments of mourning women. Meanwhile Brett Dean responds both to Carlo Gesualdo's music and to his violent temper. Dowland: Flow, my tears Britten: Lachrymae Gesualdo: Tenebrae Responsories for Maundy Thursday - 'Tristis est anima mea' (Responsory 2) Gesualdo: Moro, lasso, al mio duolo Brett Dean: Carlo Monteverdi: Lamento della ninfa Monteverdi: L'Orfeo - excerpts Betty Olivero: Neharot, Neharot (UK Premiere) Lawrence Power, viola I Fagiolini Robert Hollingworth, director Britten Sinfonia, Ryan Wigglesworth conductor.
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21-Aug-2010
BBC Proms - 2010: Prom 46: Mosolov, Part, Ravel, Scriabin - Part 2
BBC Proms 2010 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Sara Mohr-Pietsch Esa-Pekka Salonen has been Principal Conductor of the Philharmonia Orchestra for less than two years, but his distinctive programming and conducting has already made its mark on London's concert life, and their BBC Prom together epitomises their relationship. It starts with a bang - Alexander Mosolov's futuristic aural picture of industrial 1920s Soviet Russia - and continues with a UK premiere from Estonian composer Arvo Pärt, bringing to a climax the BBC Proms celebrations of his 75th birthday. Two early twentieth-century classics complete the programme: Ravel's remarkable piano concerto for the left hand only, and a sensual ochestral showpiece from Scriabin. Ravel: Piano Concerto for the Left Hand Scriabin: The Poem of Ecstasy Philharmonia Orchestra Jean-Efflam Bavouzet (piano) Esa-Pekka Salonen (conductor) This Prom will be repeated on Thursday 26th August at 2.20pm.
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20-Aug-2010
BBC Proms - 2010: Prom 45: Mozart, Liszt, Dillon, Tchaikovsky - Part 2
BBC Proms 2010 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Martin Handley Marking the 75th anniversary of the formation of the BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra, this Prom recreates the programme from 1962 when they first appeared at the Proms, with the addition of the UK premiere of James Dillon's single-movement 'La navette' which weaves string and woodwind textures across a sturdy framework of brass and percussion. A Mozart overture and two perennial Russian favourites are complemented by Liszt's virtuosic showpiece concerto with pianist Boris Giltburg. James Dillon: La navette (UK premiere) Tchaikovsky: Symphony No. 2 in C minor, 'Little Russian' BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra Boris Giltburg (piano) Martyn Brabbins (conductor) This Prom will be repeated on Friday 27th August at 2.20pm.
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20-Aug-2010
BBC Proms - 2010: Proms Composer Portraits: 3. James Dillon
BBC Proms 2010 Proms Composer Portrait Presented by Andrew McGregor Following the UK premiere of his work 'La navette' in tonight's Prom, composer James Dillon talks to Andrew McGregor about his music and introduces performances of his chamber works performed by students from the Royal Scottish Academy MusicLab. James Dillon - Zone (...de azul) James Dillon - Charm James Dillon - Dragonfly James Dillon - .Once Upon a Time Sarah Hayes (flute/piccolo) Fraser Langston (clarinet) Arlene Cochrane (oboe) Anna Mary Lynch (bassoon) David Smith (horn) Bryan Allen (trumpet) Davur Juul Magnussen (trombone) Willem Mathlener (violin) Viola: Emma Peebles (viola) Duncan Strachan (cello) Chris Sergeant (double bass) Ed Cohen (piano).
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19-Aug-2010
BBC Proms - 2010: Prom 44: Beethoven, Rachmaninov, Tchaikovsky - Part 2
BBC Proms 2010 Live from the Royal Albert Hall Presented by Suzy Klein The Russian National Orchestra returns to the Proms in this its 20th anniversary year. After a dramatic overture by Beethoven, depicting the heroic Roman general Coriolanus, the orchestra focuses on music from its homeland. Rachmaninov is a composer close to the heart of tonight's soloist, Nikolai Lugansky, who performs the radiant and inventive piano variations on Paganini's theme. Tchaikovsky's orchestral suite was initially conceived as a symphony, but he found this form to be more flexible, and he also included a set of flamboyant variations at the end. Tchaikovsky: Suite No. 3 in G major, Op. 55 Russian National Orchestra Nikolai Lugansky (piano) Andrey Boreyko (conductor) This Prom will be repeated on Wednesday 1st September at 2.20pm.
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19-Aug-2010
BBC Proms - 2010: Prom 44: Beethoven, Rachmaninov, Tchaikovsky - Part 1
BBC Proms 2010 Live from the Royal Albert Hall Presented by Suzy Klein The Russian National Orchestra returns to the Proms in this its 20th anniversary year. After a dramatic overture by Beethoven, depicting the heroic Roman general Coriolanus, the orchestra focuses on music from its homeland. Rachmaninov is a composer close to the heart of tonight's soloist, Nikolai Lugansky, who performs the radiant and inventive piano variations on Paganini's theme. Tchaikovsky's orchestral suite was initially conceived as a symphony, but he found this form to be more flexible, and he also included a set of flamboyant variations at the end. Beethoven: Overture 'Coriolan' Rachmaninov: Rhapsody on a Theme of Paganini Russian National Orchestra Nikolai Lugansky (piano) Andrey Boreyko (conductor) This Prom will be repeated on Wednesday 1st September at 2.20pm.
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18-Aug-2010
BBC Proms - 2010: Prom 42: Part, Britten, Watkins, Shostakovich - Part 2
BBC Proms 2010 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Sara Mohr-Pietsch Edward Gardner conducts the BBC Symphony Orchestra in the four evocative Sea Interludes from Britten's opera Peter Grimes, the heartrending strings and tolling bell of the Cantus by Arvo Pärt (75 this year) which forms a hypnotic tribute to Britten, and the Fifth Symphony by one of Britten's great friends - a work which brought Shostakovich back into favour with Soviet authorities. Former Radio 3 New Generation Artist Alina Ibragimova is the soloist in the new concerto by Huw Watkins, who often appears as a pianist with her in recitals. Shostakovich: Symphony No. 5 in D minor BBC Symphony Orchestra Alina Ibragimova (violin) Edward Gardner (conductor) This Prom will be repeated on Tuesday 24th August at 2.20pm.
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18-Aug-2010
BBC Proms - 2010: Prom 43 - Part: St John Passion
BBC Proms 2010 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Martin Handley The thoughtful, dignified, spacious music of the Estonian composer Arvo Pärt has become one of the most distinctive sounds in contemporary music, and this evening's Late Night Prom presents a performance of a choral work which summarises his unassuming and deceptively simple style - a setting of the Christian Passion narrative from the Gospel according to St John. Arvo Pärt : St John Passion Andrew Kennedy (tenor - Pilate) Brindley Sherratt (baritone - Jesus) Iain Farrington (organ) Endymion BBC Singers David Hill (conductor) Extra notes: Pärt's St John Passion is not a work in which the harrowing events of Christ's arrest, trial, crucifixion and death are used as the vehicle for large-scale, overly dramatic musical gestures. Rather, the piece makes its impact through quiet understatement and ritualised intensity - the music only occasionally raising its voice. In our noisy, over-emotionalised, hyper-sensitive contemporary world Pärt's piece takes us to a place of deep contemplation and solemn ceremony - sounding both fresh and modern, and - at the same time - as if it springs from some great well of primeval music. An unforgettable late-night listen, which will turn the great spaces of the Albert Hall into something like an ancient Romanesque basilica...
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18-Aug-2010
BBC Proms - 2010: Proms Composer Portraits: 2. Huw Watkins
BBC Proms 2010 Presented by Andrew McGregor Following the premiere of his Violin Concerto in tonight's Prom, composer Huw Watkins talks to Andrew McGregor about his music and introduces performances of his chamber works performed by Watkins himself and students from the Royal College of Music. Huw Watkins - Gig Nicola Crowe (flute) Jessica Grimes (clarinet) Mali Lewis (harp) Yuka Matsumoto (violin) Agata Policinska Malocco (violin) Edmund Smith (viola) Frederique Legrand (cello) Huw Watkins - Four Inventions Huw Watkins (piano) Huw Watkins - Sad Steps Charis Jenson (violin) Anna Blackmur (violin) Rebecca Dyson (viola) Jessica Tickle (viola) Ariana Kashefi (cello) Colin Clark (cello) Huw Watkins (piano).
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18-Aug-2010
BBC Proms - 2010: Prom 42: Part, Britten, Watkins, Shostakovich - Part 1
BBC Proms 2010 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Sara Mohr-Pietsch Edward Gardner conducts the BBC Symphony Orchestra in the four evocative Sea Interludes from Britten's opera Peter Grimes, the heartrending strings and tolling bell of the Cantus by Arvo Pärt (75 this year) which forms a hypnotic tribute to Britten, and the Fifth Symphony by one of Britten's great friends - a work which brought Shostakovich back into favour with Soviet authorities. Former Radio 3 New Generation Artist Alina Ibragimova is the soloist in the new concerto by Huw Watkins, who often appears as a pianist with her in recitals. Arvo Pärt: Cantus in memoriam Benjamin Britten Britten: Four Sea Interludes from 'Peter Grimes' Huw Watkins: Violin Concerto (BBC commission: world premiere) BBC Symphony Orchestra Alina Ibragimova (violin) Edward Gardner (conductor) This Prom will be repeated on Tuesday 24th August at 2.20pm.
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17-Aug-2010
BBC Proms - 2010: Prom 41: Scriabin, Stravinsky, Part 2
BBC Proms 2010 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Andrew McGregor Valery Gergiev and the LSO perform the scintillating ballet score that Stravinsky wrote one hundred years ago for Diaghilev's Ballets Russes. Based on the Russian folk tale of the exotic Firebird imprisoned by the evil magician Kashchey, the work made him famous overnight. Scriabin too was nothing if not ambitious: he began his symphonic output with a massive work in six movements, complete with a choral finale in praise of art and including two solo vocal roles, taken tonight by members of Gergiev's Mariinsky Theatre. Stravinsky: The Firebird (complete) Nadezhda Serdiuk (mezzo-soprano) Sergei Skorokhodov (tenor) London Symphony Chorus London Symphony Orchestra Valery Gergiev (conductor) This Prom is repeated on Monday 23rd August at 2pm.
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17-Aug-2010
BBC Proms - 2010: Proms Plus: Proms Literary Festival - Pasternak
Susan Hitch explores the life and work of Boris Pasternak, Nobel Prize-winning poet and author, who died 50 years ago. Her guests on stage at the Proms Literary Festival are Jonathan Myerson, who dramatized Dr Zhivago for the BBC, and Professor of Russian Donald Rayfield. Pasternak is most famous in the UK for his sprawling epic novel Dr Zhivago which sets the concerns, desires and stories of individuals in the vast landscape of Russian revolutionary politics and history. Susan and guests discuss the circumstances of the book's publication: it was smuggled out of Russia during the height of the Cold War, and the subsequent film adaptation by David Lean made Pasternak a global literary hero. But does that tell the real story of Pasternak? Jonathan Myerson and Donald Rayfield explore the misunderstood complexity of the novel, and the fact that the compromises Pasternak adopted in his life mean he's no straightforward Cold War darling of the West. Recorded in front of an audience, with readings performed by Adjoa Andoh, at the Royal College of Music just before BBC Prom 41 which has a Russian flavour with music from Scriabin and Stravinsky and is conducted by Valery Gergiev.
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17-Aug-2010
BBC Proms - 2010: Prom 41: Scriabin, Stravinsky - Part 1
BBC Proms 2010 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Andrew McGregor Valery Gergiev and the LSO perform the scintillating ballet score that Stravinsky wrote one hundred years ago for Diaghilev's Ballets Russes. Based on the Russian folk tale of the exotic Firebird imprisoned by the evil magician Kashchey, the work made him famous overnight. Scriabin too was nothing if not ambitious: he began his symphonic output with a massive work in six movements, complete with a choral finale in praise of art and including two solo vocal roles, taken tonight by members of Gergiev's Mariinsky Theatre. Scriabin: Symphony No. 1 in E major Nadezhda Serdiuk (mezzo-soprano) Sergei Skorokhodov (tenor) London Symphony Chorus London Symphony Orchestra Valery Gergiev (conductor) This Prom is repeated on Monday 23rd August at 2pm.
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16-Aug-2010
BBC Proms - 2010: Prom 40: Mussorgsky, Scriabin, Prokofiev - Part 2
BBC Proms 2010 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Martin Handley Who better to conduct an all-Russian programme at the BBC Proms than Vladimir Jurowski, the dynamic Russian Principal Conductor of the London Philharmonic Orchestra. Tonight's concert ranges from Mussorgsky's vision of a witches' sabbath (with a bit of help from his friend Rimsky) through Scriabin's dreams, to powerhouse works by the two central Russian composers of the twentieth century. Prokofiev's hard-hitting Third Symphony uses music from his opera The Fiery Angel, while Shostakovich was writing his First Violin Concerto at the very time that the Soviet authorities announced their clampdown on music that didn't conform. Julia Fischer is the soloist, returning to the Proms after her triumphant debut with the Brahms Concerto two years ago. Scriabin:Rêverie Prokofiev:Symphony No. 3 in C minor London Philharmonic Orchestra Julia Fischer (violin) Vladimir Jurowski (conductor) This Prom will be repeated on Friday 20th August at 2pm.
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16-Aug-2010
BBC Proms - 2010: Proms Plus: Proms Literary Festival - Tolstoy
Susan Hitch joins an audience at the Royal College of Music to mark one hundred years since the death of Leo Tolstoy, author of War and Peace and Anna Karenina - a writer whose works regularly appear in the top ten of the greatest novels of all time. Susan's guests on stage are James Meek, former Moscow correspondent and prize-winning author of "The People's Act of Love" set in turn of the century Russia, and Anthony Briggs, translator of a recent edition of War and Peace and a biographer of Tolstoy. We know Tolstoy is a great writer - but what about the man himself? James Meek and Anthony Briggs debate his personal influence. Why did he become such an international philosphical celebrity - with hordes of reporters despatched to his deathbed, logging Tolstoy's last hours and morsels consumed in minute detail? Do we need to remember him more as a spiritual teacher who counted Ghandhi amongst his followers, rather than a novelist? And do James and Anthony believe his books give signs of an author who embraced the diversity of human experience - or reveal what he believed to be his misanthropy and pessimism? Part of a series of debates at this year's Proms Literary Festival celebrating the three Russian authors whose anniversaries fall this year: Chekhov, Pasternak and Tolstoy himself. Producer: Natalie Steed.
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16-Aug-2010
BBC Proms - 2010: Prom 40: Mussorgsky, Scriabin, Prokofiev - Part 1
BBC Proms 2010 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Martin Handley Who better to conduct an all-Russian programme at the BBC Proms than Vladimir Jurowski, the dynamic Russian Principal Conductor of the London Philharmonic Orchestra. Tonight's concert ranges from Mussorgsky's vision of a witches' sabbath (with a bit of help from his friend Rimsky) through Scriabin's dreams, to powerhouse works by the two central Russian composers of the twentieth century. Prokofiev's hard-hitting Third Symphony uses music from his opera The Fiery Angel, while Shostakovich was writing his First Violin Concerto at the very time that the Soviet authorities announced their clampdown on music that didn't conform. Julia Fischer is the soloist, returning to the Proms after her triumphant debut with the Brahms Concerto two years ago. Musorgsky, arr. Rimsky-Korsakov: A Night on the Bare Mountain Shostakovich: Violin Concerto No. 1 in A minor, Op. 77 London Philharmonic Orchestra Julia Fischer (violin) Vladimir Jurowski (conductor) This Prom will be repeated on Friday 20th August at 2pm.
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15-Aug-2010
BBC Proms - 2010: Proms Plus: Proms Intro: Bach
The idea of performing Bach transcriptions is highly appealing to tonight's conductor Andrew Litton. In this Proms Intro for Bach Day, Sara Mohr-Pietsch asks him what makes a good transcription and why Bach's music has been re-imagined by so many other composers. Two young UK-based composers have reworked Bach themselves for this concert, and they give their insights into the musical process.
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15-Aug-2010
BBC Proms - 2010: Proms 38 - Bach Organ Music
BBC Proms 2010 Live from the Royal Albert Hall Presented by Sara Mohr-Pietsch The mighty Father Willis organ of the Albert Hall is unleashed by David Briggs, Organist Emeritus at Gloucester Cathedral, for the third of today's Bach Proms. The programme starts with two contrasting original works for the instrument - a small-scale chorale prelude based on the Advent hymn "Sleepers Wake", preceded by the great Passacaglia in C minor: twenty-one variations and a fugue founded on a repeated bass line. Three pieces demonstrate the organ's traditional role playing transcriptions of orchestral works - a role extending back to Bach's own day - including the cantata movement 'Sheep may safely graze', and David Briggs's own arrangement of the best known of Bach's orchestral suites, including the popular 'Air on the G String'. Bach: Passacaglia and Fugue in C minor, BWV 582 Bach: Chorale Prelude 'Wachet auf, ruft uns die Stimme', BWV 645 Bach, arr. Stainton B Taylor: Aria 'Schafe können sicher weiden', BWV 208 Bach, arr. Virgil Fox:'Komm, süsser Tod', BWV 478 Bach, arr. David Briggs:Orchestral Suite No. 3 in D major, BWV 1068 David Briggs (organ).
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15-Aug-2010
BBC Proms - 2010: Proms Chamber Music: PSM 02 - Brandenburg Concertos
BBC Proms 2010 Live from Cadogan Hall, London Presented by Catherine Bott Proms Bach Day continues with the second concert of Brandenburg Concertos given by the English Baroque Soloists and John Eliot Gardiner. Bach: Brandenburg Concerto No. 3 in G major, BWV 1048 Bach: Brandenburg Concerto No. 5 in D major BWV 1050 Bach: Brandenburg Concerto No. 2 in F major, BWV 1047 English Baroque Soloists Sir John Eliot Gardiner (conductor).
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15-Aug-2010
BBC Proms - 2010: Proms Chamber Music: PSM 01 - Brandenburg Concertos
BBC Proms 2010 Live from Cadogan Hall, London Presented by Catherine Bott Proms Bach Day launches with the complete Brandenburg Concertos in two concerts given by the English Baroque Soloists and conductor John Eliot Gardiner. Written for the small orchestra of fine musicians at the court of Anhalt-Cöthen, where Bach was Kapellmeister for six years from 1717, each concerto uses a different line-up of musicians. "No other set of concertos" maintains Gardiner, "can compare with Bach's for diversity of instrument make-up, for the prominence and variety of wind instruments, or for the myriad textural contrasts this allows." Bach: Brandenburg Concerto No. 1 in F major, BWV 1046 Bach: Brandenburg Concerto No. 6 in B flat major, BWV 1051 Bach: Brandenburg Concerto No. 4 in G major BWV 1049 English Baroque Soloists Sir John Eliot Gardiner (conductor).
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15-Aug-2010
BBC Proms - 2010: Prom 39: Bach Orchestral Transcriptions - Part 2
BBC Proms 2010 Live from the Royal Albert Hall Presented by Sara Mohr-Pietsch As a grand finale to Proms Bach Day, the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra conducted by Andrew Litton play works by J S Bach in arrangements made in the last hundred years or so, ranging from the subtleties of Walton's Wise Virgins Suite and the playfulness of Grainger's version of "Sheep may safely graze", to the richly-scored reworkings by Stokowski, Henry Wood, Sargent, Bantock and Respighi. Plus two special commissions from young composers who have taken Bach pieces as a springboard for their compositions. Grainger: Blithe Bells Bach, arr. Sargent: Air from Orchestral Suite No. 3 in D major, BWV 1068 Alissa Firsova: Bach Allegro (BBC commission: world premiere) Bach, orch. Bantock: Wachet auf, ruft uns die Stimme, BWV 645 Bach, orch. Respighi: Passacaglia and Fugue in C minor, BWV 582 Royal Philharmonic Orchestra Andrew Litton (conductor) This Prom is repeated on Thursday 19th August at 2pm.
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15-Aug-2010
BBC Proms - 2010: Prom 39: Bach Orchestral Transcriptions - Part 1
BBC Proms 2010 Live from the Royal Albert Hall Presented by Sara Mohr-Pietsch As a grand finale to Proms Bach Day, the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra conducted by Andrew Litton play works by J S Bach in arrangements made in the last hundred years or so, ranging from the subtleties of Walton's Wise Virgins Suite and the playfulness of Grainger's version of "Sheep may safely graze", to the richly-scored reworkings by Stokowski, Henry Wood, Sargent, Bantock and Respighi. Plus two special commissions from young composers who have taken Bach pieces as a springboard for their compositions. Bach, orch. Stokowski: Toccata and Fugue in D minor, BWV 565 Bach, orch. Henry Wood: 'Suite No. 6' - Prelude; Finale Tarik O'Regan Latent Manifest (BBC commission: world premiere) Walton: The Wise Virgins - suite Royal Philharmonic Orchestra Andrew Litton (conductor) This Prom is repeated on Thursday 19th August at 2pm.
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12-Aug-2010
BBC Proms - 2010: Prom 35: Ligeti, Tchaikovsky, Sibelius - Part 3
BBC PROMS 2010 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Andrew McGregor Thomas Dausgaard conducts his Danish orchestra and choirs in an expansive, almost cosmic, programme. Three short choral pieces by György Ligeti - including Lux aeterna, heard in Stanley Kubrick's 2001: A Space Odyssey - take us to ethereal heights, while Ligeti himself recognised the mesmeric, free-floating character of Rued Langgaard's 1918 Music of the Spheres as prefiguring his own style. Tchaikovsky's captivating concerto and Sibelius's Fifth Symphony, overwhelming in its nobly expansive final-movement 'Swan Hymn' climax, complete the evening. Sibelius: Symphony No. 5 in E flat major Henning Kraggerud (violin) Inger Dam-Jensen (soprano) Danish National Concert Choir Danish National Vocal Ensemble Danish National Symphony Orchestra Thomas Dausgaard (conductor) This Prom will be repeated on Monday 16th August at 2pm.
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12-Aug-2010
BBC Proms - 2010: Prom 34: Schreker, Korngold, Mahler - Part 2
BBC PROMS 2010 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London. Presented by Suzy Klein. The conductor Ingo Metzmacher and his Berlin orchestra evoke the spirit of turn-of the century Vienna with an orchestral dream sequence, a romantic concerto and an epic symphony. Gustav Mahler had a profound influence on the younger generation of Austrian composers, and Franz Schreker was no exception. In his operas he experimented with sounds and colours in a highly expressive way, and this orchestral interlude could almost be a counterpart to Mahler's nocturnal movements in his Seventh Symphony. In his youth, Erich Korngold was mentored by Mahler, who pronounced the younger composer to be a genius when only 9 years old. After leaving Vienna for Hollywood he focussed on the movies, but his Violin Concerto marked a return to the concert platform and is suffused with lush harmonies recalling his early days in Austria, as well as cleverly incorporating themes from his film scores. It remains one of his most popular works. Mahler's symphonies are at once highly personal and universal, running the full gamut of human emotions. The Seventh includes bittersweet questions on the meaning of existence, a night-walk, a nightmarish scherzo, a magical serenade and an exuberant celebratory finale. Mahler: Symphony No. 7 Leonidas Kavakos (violin) Deutsches Symphonie-Orchester Berlin Ingo Metzmacher (conductor) This Prom will be repeated on Friday 17th September at 2pm.
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12-Aug-2010
BBC Proms - 2010: Prom 34: Schreker, Korngold, Mahler - Part 1
BBC PROMS 2010 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London. Presented by Suzy Klein. The conductor Ingo Metzmacher and his Berlin orchestra evoke the spirit of turn-of the century Vienna with an orchestral dream sequence, a romantic concerto and an epic symphony. Gustav Mahler had a profound influence on the younger generation of Austrian composers, and Franz Schreker was no exception. In his operas he experimented with sounds and colours in a highly expressive way, and this orchestral interlude could almost be a counterpart to Mahler's nocturnal movements in his Seventh Symphony. In his youth, Erich Korngold was mentored by Mahler, who pronounced the younger composer to be a genius when only 9 years old. After leaving Vienna for Hollywood he focussed on the movies, but his Violin Concerto marked a return to the concert platform and is suffused with lush harmonies recalling his early days in Austria, as well as cleverly incorporating themes from his film scores. It remains one of his most popular works. Mahler's symphonies are at once highly personal and universal, running the full gamut of human emotions. The Seventh includes bittersweet questions on the meaning of existence, a night-walk, a nightmarish scherzo, a magical serenade and an exuberant celebratory finale. Schreker: Der ferne Klang - Nachtstück Korngold: Violin Concerto Leonidas Kavakos (violin) Deutsches Symphonie-Orchester Berlin Ingo Metzmacher (conductor) This Prom will be repeated on Friday 17th September at 2pm.
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12-Aug-2010
BBC Proms - 2010: Prom 35: Ligeti, Tchaikovsky, Sibelius - Part 2
BBC PROMS 2010 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Andrew McGregor Thomas Dausgaard conducts his Danish orchestra and choirs in an expansive, almost cosmic, programme. Three short choral pieces by György Ligeti - including Lux aeterna, heard in Stanley Kubrick's 2001: A Space Odyssey - take us to ethereal heights, while Ligeti himself recognised the mesmeric, free-floating character of Rued Langgaard's 1918 Music of the Spheres as prefiguring his own style. Tchaikovsky's captivating concerto and Sibelius's Fifth Symphony, overwhelming in its nobly expansive final-movement 'Swan Hymn' climax, complete the evening. Ligeti: Lux aeterna Langgaard: Music of the Spheres (UK premiere) Henning Kraggerud (violin) Inger Dam-Jensen (soprano) Danish National Concert Choir Danish National Vocal Ensemble Danish National Symphony Orchestra Thomas Dausgaard (conductor) This Prom will be repeated on Monday 16th August at 2pm.
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12-Aug-2010
BBC Proms - 2010: Prom 35: Ligeti, Tchaikovsky, Sibelius - Part 1
BBC PROMS 2010 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Andrew McGregor Thomas Dausgaard conducts his Danish orchestra and choirs in an expansive, almost cosmic, programme. Three short choral pieces by György Ligeti - including Lux aeterna, heard in Stanley Kubrick's 2001: A Space Odyssey - take us to ethereal heights, while Ligeti himself recognised the mesmeric, free-floating character of Rued Langgaard's 1918 Music of the Spheres as prefiguring his own style. Tchaikovsky's captivating concerto and Sibelius's Fifth Symphony, overwhelming in its nobly expansive final-movement 'Swan Hymn' climax, complete the evening. Ligeti: Night Ligeti: Morning Tchaikovsky: Violin Concerto Henning Kraggerud (violin) Inger Dam-Jensen (soprano) Danish National Concert Choir Danish National Vocal Ensemble Danish National Symphony Orchestra Thomas Dausgaard (conductor) This Prom will be repeated on Monday 16th August at 2pm.
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10-Aug-2010
BBC Proms - 2010: Prom 32: Tchaikovsky, Janacek, Berlioz - Part 2
BBC PROMS 2010 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Sara Mohr-Pietsch The European Youth Orchestra performs three gripping orchestral narratives: Tchaikovsky's hyper-Romantic portrayal of Shakespeare's star-crossed lovers with possibly the world's most famous love-theme, Janacek's powerful depiction of 3 episodes from Gogol's novel about Cossack bravery; and finally Berlioz's symphonic re-imagining of Byron's epic poem about the travels of a world-weary young man, disillusioned with a life of pleasure. Berlioz portrays the melancholy dreamer through the solo viola. Berlioz: Harold in Italy Maxim Rysanov (viola) European Union Youth Orchestra Matthias Bamert (conductor) This Prom will be repeated on Wednesday 18th August at 2pm.
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10-Aug-2010
BBC Proms - 2010: Prom 33 - Ilham Al Madfai and Friends
BBC PROMS 2010 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Lucy Duran. Two generations interpreting Iraqi music for a contemporary audience: Pioneering Iraqi singer and guitarist Ilham Al Madfai and his group play his own songs and traditional Iraqi favourites, and are joined by Ilham's student, oud player Khyam Allami. Damascus-born and London-raised, Khyam is the first student of Radio 3's World Routes Academy. The music promises to be rhythmically powerful, as the band includes not only a Western-style bass guitar and drum kit rhythm section, but also two additional percussionists. Traditional Iraqi instruments the joza (spike fiddle) and qanun (zither) are also included in the line-up. Ilham Al Madfai (guitar/vocals) Khyam Allami (oud) Saro Kevorkian (drums) Faisal Ghazi; Walid Kamel (oriental percussion) Andrea Piccioni (percussion) Omar Bashir (oud) Azad Omar Mohammed (ney) Jamil Al Asadi (qanoon) Luca Scansani (electric bass) EXTRA NOTES: Ilham Al-Madfai was once known as the Beatle of Baghdad. He formed his first band in the 1960s, the first band in Iraq that used "modern" instruments in playing Arabic music. His family was against his involvement in music, and sent him to London to study architecture. But he continued to perform with a group, particularly at Cafe Baghdad in London. Leading musicians attended his gigs including Paul McCartney, Donovan and Georgie Fame. Ilham returned to Iraq to develop his musical career. He introduced Spanish guitar rhythms from Andalusia to Iraqi folk song, appealing to a newer, younger audience. He reached a peak in popularity during the 70s, becoming Iraq's most popular musician of the time.
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10-Aug-2010
BBC Proms - 2010: Proms Plus: Childe Harold
Tom Holland, award winning historian of Rubicon, and novelist Ben Markovits join presenter Matthew Sweet to explore Childe Harold's Pilgrimage - the poem which thrust Lord Byron into stardom and made him a Romantic hero overnight. The poem tells the story of a disillisioned young man's overseas journey and was inspired by Byron's own travels in southern Europe. But it also launched the idea of the Byronic hero, who became so influential in the romantic era. Tonight's BBC Proms concert features Hector Berlioz's musical version - Harold in Italy. Matthew Sweet guests are two writers who have re-interpreted Byron for the twenty-first century.Tom Holland has written a novel based on the myth of Byron's life and work called "The Vampyre". He describes Byron as the "David Bowie of his age" - able to reinvent himself to the world, but not just a doomed poet - also a brilliantly successful writer. Benjamin Markovits has written the first parts of a trilogy about Byron's life and loves. Their discussion is recorded in front of an audience at the Royal College of Music as part of this year's Proms Literary Festival.
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10-Aug-2010
BBC Proms - 2010: Prom 32: Tchaikovsky, Janacek, Berlioz - Part 1
BBC PROMS 2010 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Sara Mohr-Pietsch The European Youth Orchestra performs three gripping orchestral narratives: Tchaikovsky's hyper-Romantic portrayal of Shakespeare's star-crossed lovers with possibly the world's most famous love-theme, Janacek's powerful depiction of 3 episodes from Gogol's novel about Cossack bravery; and finally Berlioz's symphonic re-imagining of Byron's epic poem about the travels of a world-weary young man, disillusioned with a life of pleasure. Berlioz portrays the melancholy dreamer through the solo viola. Tchaikovsky: Fantasy Overture 'Romeo and Juliet' Janacek: Taras Bulba Maxim Rysanov (viola) European Union Youth Orchestra Matthias Bamert (conductor) This Prom will be repeated on Wednesday 18th August at 2pm.
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09-Aug-2010
BBC Proms - 2010: Prom 30 - BBC Symphony Chorus and London Brass
BBC PROMS 2010 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London. Presented by Sara Mohr-Pietsch. Choral music with a French flavour in this Prom matinee with the BBC Symphony Chorus conducted by its Director, Stephen Jackson. Bookends to the programme are two masterworks from the 20th century a cappella choral repertoire. Daniel-Lesur's Le Cantique de Cantiques, composed in 1953, is a beautifully-shaped and lusciously-scored setting of words from the Biblical Song of Songs, in which the eroticism of the ancient texts is portrayed in music of dreamy sensuality. Poulenc's Figure Humaine confronts the dark reality of life in Occupied France and is one of the most thrilling moments in the entire choral repertoire. In between, two works for brass by Toru Takemitsu - music of harmonic elegance and dream-like stillness, and a new piece by Stephen Montague, exploring the joys of language and human utterance. Daniel-Lesur: Le cantique des cantiques Takemitsu: Garden Rain* Stephen Montague: Wilful Chants (BBC commission: world premiere) Takemitsu: Signals from Heaven* Poulenc: Figure humaine BBC Symphony Chorus Soloists from Trinity College of Music Chamber Choir London Brass O Duo Stephen Jackson (conductor) *Andrew Crowley (conductor) EXTRA NOTES: Daniel-Lesur's Le Cantique de Cantiques, composed in 1953, is a beautifully-shaped and lusciously-scored setting of words from the Biblical Song of Songs, in which the eroticism of the ancient texts is portrayed in music of dreamy sensuality. Poulenc's Figure Humaine confronts the dark reality of life in Occupied France and Composed to be performed on the long-awaited day of liberation, Poulenc's cantata - setting words by poet-turned-Resistance-member Paul Eluard - is a paean to his homeland, culminating in a hymn to liberty which is one of the most thrilling moments in the entire choral repertoire. Toru Takemitsu - though Japanese - counted Claude Debussy as a major influence and his music, like much of Debussy's, has a harmonic elegance and dream-like stillness. In contrast, Stephen Montague's new piece - a BBC commission here receiving its first performance - is an energetic exploration of the joys of language and human utterance, a virtuoso tapestry of many different world languages and even some that don't exist!
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09-Aug-2010
BBC Proms - 2010: Prom 31: Part 2
BBC PROMS 2010 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Martin Handley Sir Andrew Davis returns to the BBC Proms as Conductor Laureate of the BBC Symphony Orchestra with a typically wide-ranging programme of music whose pairings reflect musical homages. 'Mozart always smiled; his music also smiled,' said Messiaen of Mozart - which explains the title of his Mozart tribute Un sourire. That prefaces one of Mozart's ebullient piano concertos, and the second half of the concert couples one of Brahms's greatest works with a tribute from one of his English admirers Parry: Elegy for Brahms Brahms: Symphony No. 4 in E minor Louis Lortie (piano) BBC Symphony Orchestra Sir Andrew Davis (conductor) This Prom will be repeated on Friday 13th August at 2pm.
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09-Aug-2010
BBC Proms - 2010: Prom 31: Part 1
BBC PROMS 2010 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Martin Handley Sir Andrew Davis returns to the BBC Proms as Conductor Laureate of the BBC Symphony Orchestra with a typically wide-ranging programme of music whose pairings reflect musical homages. 'Mozart always smiled; his music also smiled,' said Messiaen of Mozart - which explains the title of his Mozart tribute Un sourire. That prefaces one of Mozart's ebullient piano concertos, and the second half of the concert couples one of Brahms's greatest works with a tribute from one of his English admirers Messiaen: Un sourire Mozart: Piano Concerto No. 17 in G major, K453 Louis Lortie (piano) BBC Symphony Orchestra Sir Andrew Davis (conductor) This Prom will be repeated on Friday 13th August at 2pm.
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08-Aug-2010
BBC Proms - 2010: Prom 29: Part 2
BBC PROMS 2010 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Donald Macleod. The National Youth Orchestra's annual Prom puts the spotlight this year on two brilliantly orchestrated nineteenth century French masterworks: Paul Dukas's thrilling mix of witty narrative and symphonic momentum and the symphony that made the young Hector Berlioz's name. Both works have a dark side - the Sorcerer's Apprentice summoning the anarchic spirits while his master is out of the way and the opium-fuelled nightmares of a young love-sick artist which include his own execution and a witches Sabbath. The programme also includes the London premiere of Julian Anderson's own capricious, contrast-packed 'Fantasias' a work which showcases the plentiful talent in each of the NYO's instrumental sections in turn. Berlioz: Symphonie fantastique National Youth Orchestra of Great Britain Semyon Bychkov (conductor) This Prom will be repeated on Thursday 12th August at 2pm.
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08-Aug-2010
BBC Proms - 2010: Prom 29: Part 1
BBC PROMS 2010 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Donald Macleod. The National Youth Orchestra's annual Prom puts the spotlight this year on two brilliantly orchestrated nineteenth century French masterworks: Paul Dukas's thrilling mix of witty narrative and symphonic momentum and the symphony that made the young Hector Berlioz's name. Both works have a dark side - the Sorcerer's Apprentice summoning the anarchic spirits while his master is out of the way and the opium-fuelled nightmares of a young love-sick artist which include his own execution and a witches Sabbath. The programme also includes the London premiere of Julian Anderson's own capricious, contrast-packed 'Fantasias' a work which showcases the plentiful talent in each of the NYO's instrumental sections in turn. Dukas: The Sorcerer's Apprentice Julian Anderson: Fantasias (London premiere) National Youth Orchestra of Great Britain Semyon Bychkov (conductor) This Prom will be repeated on Thursday 12th August at 2pm.
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07-Aug-2010
BBC Proms - 2010: Prom 28: Birmingham Contemporary Music Group
BBC PROMS 2010 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Petroc Trelawny Ilan Volkov, a great champion of contemporary music, conducts music by three generations of British composers alongside a new work by Danish composer Hans Abrahamsen, whose Wald (Forest) takes its cue from a theme on the composer's own instrument, the horn. Oliver Knussen: Two Organa Hans Abrahamsen: Wald (BBC co-commission with Asko SchÃ¶nberg: UK premiere) Luke Bedford: Or voit tout en aventure George Benjamin: Three Inventions Claire Booth, soprano Birmingham Contemporary Music Group Ilan Volkov, conductor.
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07-Aug-2010
BBC Proms - 2010: Aurora Orchestra, Nicholas Collon
Each year the Proms holds a competition for young composers. Entries are received from all over the country and judged by a distinguished panel of composers. The winners have their entries played in a special concert given by the Aurora Orchestra and conducted by Nicholas Collon, held at the Royal College of Music. The young composers also receive a commission to write a new work to be performed at the Royal Albert Hall later in the year. Sara Mohr-Pietsch introduces the concert, meets some of the composers and finds out a little of what goes on behind the scenes.
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07-Aug-2010
BBC Proms - 2010: Prom 27: Foulds, Beethoven, Strauss - Part 2
BBC PROMS 2010 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Penny Gore The pianist Paul Lewis pays his third visit to the Royal Albert Hall this season for the next concerto in his Beethoven concerto cycle, this time with the Halle and its Music Director, Sir Mark Elder. Beethoven's Third concerto is more turbulent than those that precede it, and it shows a more experimental side of Beethoven's musical language. The concert opens with music by John Foulds who had a varied life as a musician - as a cellist with the Halle, as a conductor, a cinema pianist, and a composer of both serious and light music. He had a fascination for Indian music and mysticism, and this had an impact on his work. In this symphonic poem he evokes a spring day. In the final work Strauss places himself at the forefront of his epic tone poem, casting himself as the central heroic figure and portraying his own life as a struggle against adversity. R. Strauss: Ein Heldenleben Paul Lewis, piano Halle Sir Mark Elder, conductor This Prom will be repeated on Wednesday 11th August at 2pm.
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06-Aug-2010
BBC Proms - 2010: Prom 26: Mahler: Symphonies Nos 4 and 5 - Part 2
BBC PROMS 2010 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Andrew McGregor Valery Gergiev makes the first of his two appearances this season conducting the World Orchestra for Peace, an ensemble of first-rate players from around the world, in two symphonies by Mahler whose 150th anniversary it is. The often child-like innocence of the Fourth is followed by the funereal, stormy and ultimately life-affirming Fifth. Mahler: Symphony No.5 in C sharp minor Camilla Tilling, soprano World Orchestra for Peace Valery Gergiev, conductor This Prom will be repeated on Tuesday 10th August at 2pm.
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05-Aug-2010
BBC Proms - 2010: Prom 25: BBC Singers/London Sinfonietta
BBC PROMS 2010 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Louise Fryer This Late Night Prom pairs music by Igor Stravinsky with one of the composers he most admired - J S Bach. At the heart of the concert the two composers overlap in Stravinsky's orchestral arrangement of one of the Bach's masterpieces: the great Canonic Variations on "Vom Himmel Hoch", in which he subjects a Lutheran Christmas hymn to a staggering array of blindingly clever techniques - but all-the-while producing music so charming and fluent that the unsuspecting listener would never know what was going on below the surface. The concert ends with a work by Stravinsky which, like Bach's, combines austerity with a deeply-felt spirituality: Threni - setting words from the Biblical Lamentations of Jeremiah. Bach: Chorale "Ach mein herzliebes Jesulein" Bach: Canonic Variations on "Von Himmel hoch" BWV769 Bach arr. Stravinsky: Chorale Variations on "Von Himmel hoch" BWV 769 Stravinsky: Threni Elizabeth Atherton, soprano Hilary Summers, mezzo-soprano Alan Oke, tenor Andrew Kennedy, tenor David Wilson-Johnson, baritone Sir John Tomlinson, bass Daniel Hyde, organ BBC Singers London Sinfonietta David Atherton, conductor.
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05-Aug-2010
BBC Proms - 2010: Prom 24: BBCSSO/Runnicles (2)
BBC PROMS 2010 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Donald Macleod Chief conductor Donald Runnicles teams up once again at the Proms with the BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra and Scottish mezzo Karen Cargill to perform Mahler's massive Third Symphony. The composer himself wrote 'My symphony will be something such as the world has not had before! The whole of Nature finds a voice.' The Royal Scottish National Orchestra Junior Chorus are joined by the ladies of the Edinburgh Festival chorus to create the sound world of bells and an angelic choir before the symphony reaches its radiant conclusion. Mahler: Symphony No.3 in D minor Karen Cargill, mezzo-soprano Edinburgh Festival Chorus (women's voices) Royal Scottish National Orchestra Junior Chorus BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra Donald Runnicles, conductor.
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04-Aug-2010
BBC Proms - 2010: Prom 23: Foulds, Vaughan Williams, Elgar - Part 1
BBC PROMS 2010 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Katie Derham Donald Runnicles makes his first Proms appearance as Chief Conductor of the BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra in an all-British programme featuring former BBC Young Musician of the Year Nicola Benedetti in her Prom debut. The concert features Vaughan Williams' choral masterpiece written for sixteen solo singers and orchestra as a tribute to Proms founder, Henry Wood. Tonight's performance showcases singers from the Royal Scottish Academy of Music and Drama. Foulds: Dynamic Triptych Vaughan Williams: Serenade to Music Emily Mitchell, Natalie Montakhab, sopranos Jemma Brown, Beth Mackay, Rebecca Afonwy-Jones, Lynda-Jane Workman, mezzo-sopranos Stephen Chambers, Warren Gillespie, John Pumphrey, Ronan Busfield, tenors James Birchall, Owain Browne, Michel de Souza, Ross McInroy, basses Ashley Wass, piano Nicola Benedetti, violin BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra Donald Runnicles, conductor This Prom will be repeated on Monday 9th August at 2pm.
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04-Aug-2010
BBC Proms - 2010: Prom 23: Foulds, Vaughan Williams, Elgar - Part 2
BBC PROMS 2010 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Katie Derham Donald Runnicles makes his first Proms appearance as Chief Conductor of the BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra in an all-British programme featuring former BBC Young Musician of the Year Nicola Benedetti in her Prom debut. The concert features Vaughan Williams' choral masterpiece written for sixteen solo singers and orchestra as a tribute to Proms founder, Henry Wood. Tonight's performance showcases singers from the Royal Scottish Academy of Music and Drama. Vaughan Williams: The Lark Ascending Elgar: Symphony No.1 in A flat major Elin Pritchard, Marie Claire Breen, Emily Mitchell, Natalie Montakhab, sopranos Jemma Brown, Beth Mackay, Rebecca Afonwy-Jones, Lynda-Jane Workman, mezzo-sopranos Stephen Chambers, Warren Gillespie, John Pumphrey, Ronan Busfield, tenors James Birchall, Owain Browne, Michel de Souza, Ross McInroy, basses Ashley Wass, piano Nicola Benedetti, violin BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra Donald Runnicles, conductor This Prom will be repeated on Monday 9th August at 2pm.
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04-Aug-2010
BBC Proms - 2010: Proms Plus: Proms Literary Festival: Pepys
Journalist and author Max Hastings and historian Jenny Uglow join presenter Ian McMillan for performed extracts and discussion to mark the 350 years since Samuel Pepys started the most influential diary in British history. It's one of the most important sources for the English Restoration period - and from 1660 onwards provides eyewitness accounts of great events, such as the Plague of London, the Great Fire of London and the second Anglo-Dutch War. But why does Pepys' work still talk to us across three and a half centuries? Is it the intimate confessions of his sexual misdemeanours - including being caught in flagrante by his wife? Or the frustrated insecurity about his career and need to work harder? Or is it the fascinating timeless window on one man's inner self? Jenny Uglow's recently published biography of Charles II's reign draws heavily on Pepys for the set-pieces of the age. Max Hastings has recommended reading Pepys at bedtime as a corrective to any ideas that we face unprecedented disorder in our own age. They bring their own perspectives on Pepys to an audience at the Royal College of Music as part of the Proms Literary Festival. The Verb's Ian McMillan is the host.
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03-Aug-2010
BBC Proms - 2010: Prom 22: Mozart, Ligeti, Ravel - Part 2
BBC PROMS 2010 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Penny Gore The BBC Symphony Orchestra and Jonathan Nott present a typically wide-ranging programme placing contemporary works alongside classics of the repertoire and ending with three glittering showpieces by Ravel. Pierre Laurent Aimard plays an adventurous solo piece by Ligeti and concertos by Mozart and George Benjamin - the latter an exploration of the contrasting and complementary sounds that the piano and orchestra can make. Ravel: Valses nobles et sentimentales Ravel: Miroirs - Une barque sur l'ocean Ravel: La Valse Pierre-Laurent Aimard, piano BBC Symphony Orchestra Jonathan Nott, conductor This Prom will be repeated on Friday 6th August at 2pm.
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03-Aug-2010
BBC Proms - 2010: Prom 22: Mozart, Ligeti, Ravel - Part 1
BBC PROMS 2010 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Penny Gore The BBC Symphony Orchestra and Jonathan Nott present a typically wide-ranging programme placing contemporary works alongside classics of the repertoire and ending with three glittering showpieces by Ravel. Pierre Laurent Aimard plays an adventurous solo piece by Ligeti and concertos by Mozart and George Benjamin - the latter an exploration of the contrasting and complementary sounds that the piano and orchestra can make. Mozart: Piano Concerto No 27 in B flat, K595 Ligeti: Musica ricercata - No 2: Mesto, rigido e ceremoniale George Benjamin: Duet (London premiere) Pierre-Laurent Aimard, piano BBC Symphony Orchestra Jonathan Nott, conductor This Prom will be repeated on Friday 6th August at 2pm.
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02-Aug-2010
BBC Proms - 2010: Prom 21: Berlioz, Wagner - Part 2
BBC PROMS 2010 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Andrew McGregor. Sir Simon Rattle evokes two iconic pairs of lovers in Berlioz's response to Shakespeare, and Wagner's re-working of a medieval celtic legend, with the distinguished soloists Violetta Urman and Ben Heppner as Isolde and Tristan, accompanied by the Orchestra of the Age of Enlightenment. Berlioz first discovered Shakespeare through performances of Hamlet and Romeo and Juliet, involving his future wife Harriet Smithson, and these had a deep influence on his work. In his dramatic symphony based on the star-crossed lovers' tale, he pays hommage to Beethoven, and in later life he looked upon this Love Scene as one of his greatest achievements. Attending one of the early performances of Romeo and Juliet in Paris was Richard Wagner, who later drew inspiration from this for Tristan and Isolde. He became intrigued with the medieval romantic legend at a time when he was enthralled with Matilde von Wesendonck, and he poured some of his most heartfelt passion into the opera. Act 2 is laden with the erotically charged symbolism of Night and Day, with the lovers constrained by propriety in the Day, only able to freely express their desires in the Night. Wagner: Tristan und Isolde - Act 2 Isolde.....................Violeta Urmana, soprano Tristan...........................Ben Heppner, tenor King Mark.................Franz-Josef Selig, bass Brangane......Sarah Connolly, mezzo-soprano Melot......................Timothy Robinson, tenor Kurwenal......................Henk Neven, baritone Orchestra of the Age of Enlightenment Sir Simon Rattle, conductor This Prom will be repeated on Thursday 5th August at 2pm.
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02-Aug-2010
BBC Proms - 2010: Proms Plus: Proms Literary Festival: The History of Love
Novelist Howard Jacobson and classics scholar Mary Beard chart the inspirational influence of famous love affairs from Tristan and Isolde to Romeo and Juliet. One is held-up as the archetypal story of doomed young lovers. The other is a timeless tragic love-triangle. Romeo and Juliet and Tristan and Isolde have bequeathed powerful ideas about the course of true love. In fact, medieval and early modern storylines have proved remarkably robust in shaping the way we think about love. But can we trace the components of the great romances of myth and literature? Passion, ardour, youth and violence perhaps? And how do some of the other great historical figures add to our understanding, for instance, Anthony and Cleopatra or Dido and Aeneas? Howard Jacobson and Mary Beard join presenter Rana Mitter and an audience at the BBC Proms Literary Festival to discuss what they believe to be the great examples of the love affair and choose their favourite readings to illustrate how language evokes their power. Recorded in front of an audience at the Royal College of Music before Prom 21 which features Berlioz and Wagner's classic interpretations of these two stories.
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02-Aug-2010
BBC Proms - 2010: Prom 21: Berlioz, Wagner - Part 1
BBC PROMS 2010 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Andrew McGregor. Sir Simon Rattle evokes two iconic pairs of lovers in Berlioz's response to Shakespeare, and Wagner's re-working of a medieval celtic legend, with the distinguished soloists Violetta Urman and Ben Heppner as Isolde and Tristan, accompanied by the Orchestra of the Age of Enlightenment. Berlioz first discovered Shakespeare through performances of Hamlet and Romeo and Juliet, involving his future wife Harriet Smithson, and these had a deep influence on his work. In his dramatic symphony based on the star-crossed lovers' tale, he pays hommage to Beethoven, and in later life he looked upon this Love Scene as one of his greatest achievements. Attending one of the early performances of Romeo and Juliet in Paris was Richard Wagner, who later drew inspiration from this for Tristan and Isolde. He became intrigued with the medieval romantic legend at a time when he was enthralled with Matilde von Wesendonck, and he poured some of his most heartfelt passion into the opera. Act 2 is laden with the erotically charged symbolism of Night and Day, with the lovers constrained by propriety in the Day, only able to freely express their desires in the Night. Berlioz: Romeo and Juliet: Love Scene Isolde.....................Violeta Urmana, soprano Tristan...........................Ben Heppner, tenor King Mark.................Franz-Josef Selig, bass Brangane......Sarah Connolly, mezzo-soprano Melot......................Timothy Robinson, tenor Kurwenal......................Henk Neven, baritone Orchestra of the Age of Enlightenment Sir Simon Rattle, conductor This Prom will be repeated on Thursday 5th August at 2pm.
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02-Aug-2010
BBC Proms - 2010: Prom 20: Wayne Marshall - Organ
BBC PROMS 2010 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Louise Fryer. Wayne Marshall returns to the Proms with a programme of Wagner, whose operatic grandeur translates very well to the king of instruments, particularly when played on the Royal Albert Hall's magnificent organ. In previous proms performances Marshall has thrilled audiences with his flamboyant improvisation skills, and these can be heard again in an improvisation on themes from Tristan and Isolde. Wagner arr. Lemare: The Mastersingers of Nuremberg Overture Wagner arr. Lemare: Tannhauser Overture Improvisation on themes from Wagner's "Tristan and Isolde" Wagner arr. Lemare: The Ride of the Valkyries from Die Walkure Wayne Marshall, organ.
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01-Aug-2010
BBC Proms - 2010: Prom 19: Sondheim at 80 - Part 2
BBC PROMS 2010 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Petroc Trelawny. Sondheim at 80 In celebration of Stephen Sondheim's unique talents a star-studded cast performs songs from some of his best-loved shows. Bryn Terfel is the demon barber of Fleet Street and he's joined by Maria Freedman, Simon Russell Beale, Julian Ovenden, Caroline O'Connor, Daniel Evans and Jenna Russell, with a special guest appearance from Dame Judi Dench. David Charles Abell conducts the BBC Concert Orchestra, aspiring young performers supported by the BBC Performing Arts Fund, and a specially formed BBC Proms Sondheim Ensemble. Sondheim: Selections from Sweeney Todd, Company, A Funny Thing Happened On The Way To The Forum, Merrily We Roll Along and Sunday In The Park With George. Bryn Terfel, Maria Friedman, Simon Russell Beale, Dame Judi Dench Julian Ovenden, Caroline O'Connor, Daniel Evans & Jenna Russell, vocalists BBC Proms Sondheim Ensemble BBC Performing Arts Fund Singers BBC Concert Orchestra David Charles Abell, conductor.
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01-Aug-2010
BBC Proms - 2010: Proms Plus: Proms Intro: Stephen Sondheim
Highlights from the Proms Plus event earlier this evening at the Royal College of Music at which Petroc Trelawny talked to the composer and lyricist Stephen Sondheim about his work and to tonight's conductor David Charles Abell.
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31-Jul-2010
BBC Proms - 2010: Proms Plus: Proms Intro: Schumann
To celebrate the 200th anniversary of Schumann's birth, pianist Lucy Parham talks to Sara Mohr-Pietsch about his life and works. Their discussion, recorded earlier today at the Royal College of Music, is interspersed with readings from Robert and Clara Schumann's diaries.
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31-Jul-2010
BBC Proms - 2010: Prom 19: Sondheim at 80 - Part 1
BBC PROMS 2010 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Petroc Trelawny. Sondheim at 80 In celebration of Stephen Sondheim's unique talents a star-studded cast performs songs from some of his best-loved shows. Bryn Terfel is the demon barber of Fleet Street and he's joined by Maria Freedman, Simon Russell Beale, Julian Ovenden, Caroline O'Connor, Daniel Evans and Jenna Russell, with a special guest appearance from Dame Judi Dench. David Charles Abell conducts the BBC Concert Orchestra, aspiring young performers supported by the BBC Performing Arts Fund, and a specially formed BBC Proms Sondheim Ensemble. Sondheim: Selections from The Frogs, Follies, Sunday In The Park With George, Into The Woods and A Little Night Music. Bryn Terfel, Maria Friedman, Simon Russell Beale, Dame Judi Dench Julian Ovenden, Caroline O'Connor, Daniel Evans & Jenna Russell, vocalists BBC Proms Sondheim Ensemble BBC Performing Arts Fund Singers BBC Concert Orchestra David Charles Abell, conductor.
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31-Jul-2010
BBC Proms - 2010: Proms Composer Portraits: 1. Colin Matthews
Tom Service talks to Colin Matthews and introduces a selection of his chamber works performed by musicians from the Royal Academy of Music. Chaconne with Chorale and Moto perpetuo Scorrevole Calmo Duo No. 3 Enigma No. 1 Britten arr. Matthews: Sonnet.
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31-Jul-2010
BBC Proms - 2010: Prom 18: Dean, Mahler, Shostakovich - Part 2
BBC PROMS 2010 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Tom Service Youth Orchestras have played an important part in the Proms for many years and the first of this year's visitors has travelled the furthest. The Australian Youth Orchestra brings with it music by its compatriot Brett Dean (who is also a former viola-player in the Berlin Philharmonic Orchestra) and by Shostakovich. His powerful 10th Symphony includes coded references both to his own love for a young woman and also to the brutality of Josef Stalin, who had died in the year the symphony was composed. The orchestra and conductor Sir Mark Elder are also joined by the young Russian mezzo-soprano Ekaterina Gubanova for some of Mahler's songs - settings of poems from the folk-based collection called Des Knaben Wunderhorn (The Youth's Magic Horn). Brett Dean: Amphitheatre (London premiere) Shostakovich: Symphony No 10 in E minor Ekaterina Gubanova (mezzo-soprano) The Australian Youth Orchestra Sir Mark Elder (conductor) This Prom will be repeated on Wednesday 4th August at 2pm.
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31-Jul-2010
BBC Proms - 2010: Prom 18: Dean, Mahler, Shostakovich - Part 1
BBC PROMS 2010 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Tom Service Youth Orchestras have played an important part in the Proms for many years and the first of this year's visitors has travelled the furthest. The Australian Youth Orchestra brings with it music by its compatriot Brett Dean (who is also a former viola-player in the Berlin Philharmonic Orchestra) and by Shostakovich. His powerful 10th Symphony includes coded references both to his own love for a young woman and also to the brutality of Josef Stalin, who had died in the year the symphony was composed. The orchestra and conductor Sir Mark Elder are also joined by the young Russian mezzo-soprano Ekaterina Gubanova for some of Mahler's songs - settings of poems from the folk-based collection called Des Knaben Wunderhorn (The Youth's Magic Horn). Brett Dean: Amphitheatre (London premiere) Mahler: Des Knaben Wunderhorn - selection Ekaterina Gubanova (mezzo-soprano) The Australian Youth Orchestra Sir Mark Elder (conductor) This Prom will be repeated on Wednesday 4th August at 2pm.
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31-Jul-2010
BBC Proms - 2010: Prom 17 - Scottish Chamber Orchestra
BBC PROMS 2010 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Louise Fryer Douglas Boyd directs members of the Scottish Chamber Orchestra in two classics for wind ensemble. Dvorák: Serenade in D minor for winds, cello and double bass, Op. 44 Mozart: Serenade in B flat, K361 'Gran Partita' Scottish Chamber Orchestra Douglas Boyd (conductor).
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31-Jul-2010
BBC Proms - 2010: Prom 16: Wagner, Beethoven, Dvorak - Part 2
BBC PROMS 2010 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Katie Derham Pianist Paul Lewis continues his cycle of all five Beethoven piano concertos. Beethoven revised No 2 many times before it was published. He was developing the form and there is still a youthful feel about this concerto, looking back in style to Haydn and Mozart. The Beethoven concerto is framed by Wagner's lively overture to Rienzi, which opened the very first Prom in 1895, and the ever-popular New World Symphony by Dvorak. The CBSO is conducted by its Latvian Music Director Andris Nelsons. Dvorak: Symphony No 9 in E minor 'From the New World' Paul Lewis (piano) City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra Andris Nelsons (conductor) This Prom will be repeated on Tuesday 3rd August at 2pm.
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31-Jul-2010
BBC Proms - 2010: Prom 15: Stockhausen, Matthews, Schumann - Part 3
BBC PROMS 2010 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Martin Handley Oliver Knussen conducts the BBC Symphony Orchestra in this wide-ranging programme, opening with Stockhausen's festive overture from 1977 and continuing with a trio of recent British works, including Colin Matthew's Violin Concerto with soloist Leila Josefowicz. The Proms' Schumann symphony cycle, celebrating the bicentenary of the composer's birth, continues with the Third Symphony. It's the most pictorial, evoking by turns a beer garden by the Rhine and the Gothic magnificence of Cologne Cathedral. A century later Bernd Alois Zimmermann's witty Rhine-Church Festival Dances, celebrated the same German region. Zimmermann: Rheinische Kirmestanze Schumann: Symphony No 3 in E flat, 'Rhenish' Leila Josefowicz (violin) BBC Symphony Orchestra Oliver Knussen (conductor) This Prom will be repeated on Monday 2nd August at 2pm.
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31-Jul-2010
BBC Proms - 2010: Prom 15: Stockhausen, Birtwistle, Matthews, Bedford, Zimmerman, Schumann: Stockhausen, Matthews, Schumann - Part 2
BBC PROMS 2010 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Martin Handley Oliver Knussen conducts the BBC Symphony Orchestra in this wide-ranging programme, opening with Stockhausen's festive overture from 1977 and continuing with a trio of recent British works, including Colin Matthew's Violin Concerto with soloist Leila Josefowicz. The Proms' Schumann symphony cycle, celebrating the bicentenary of the composer's birth, continues with the Third Symphony. It's the most pictorial, evoking by turns a beer garden by the Rhine and the Gothic magnificence of Cologne Cathedral. A century later Bernd Alois Zimmermann's witty Rhine-Church Festival Dances, celebrated the same German region. Sir Harrison Birtwistle: Sonance Severance 2000 Colin Matthews: Violin Concerto (London premiere) Luke Bedford: Outblaze the Sky Leila Josefowicz (violin) BBC Symphony Orchestra Oliver Knussen (conductor) This Prom will be repeated on Monday 2nd August at 2pm.
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31-Jul-2010
BBC Proms - 2010: Prom 15: Stockhausen, Birtwistle, Matthews, Bedford, Zimmerman, Schumann: Stockhausen, Matthews, Schumann - Part 1
BBC PROMS 2010 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Martin Handley Oliver Knussen conducts the BBC Symphony Orchestra in this wide-ranging programme, opening with Stockhausen's festive overture from 1977 and continuing with a trio of recent British works, including Colin Matthew's Violin Concerto with soloist Leila Josefowicz. The Proms' Schumann symphony cycle, celebrating the bicentenary of the composer's birth, continues with the Third Symphony. It's the most pictorial, evoking by turns a beer garden by the Rhine and the Gothic magnificence of Cologne Cathedral. A century later Bernd Alois Zimmermann's witty Rhine-Church Festival Dances, celebrated the same German region. Stockhausen: Jubilee Leila Josefowicz (violin) BBC Symphony Orchestra Oliver Knussen (conductor) This Prom will be repeated on Monday 2nd August at 2pm.
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31-Jul-2010
BBC Proms - 2010: Prom 14: Beethoven: Beethoven - Part 2
BBC PROMS 2010 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Katie Derham A welcome return to the Proms for this polished German chamber orchestra in the second of the season's Beethoven Nights which revive a tradition common during the first decades of the Proms. Tonight, Artistic Director Paavo Jarvi conducts three works by Beethoven beginning with his First Symphony in which he staked his claim as the rightful heir to the Classical symphonic tradition. The orchestra is joined by American soloist Hilary Hahn in the richly expressive Violin Concerto - a work whose technical difficulties make it a pinnacle of the violin repertoire. The programme concludes with the Fifth Symphony with its explosive opening four-note motive among the most recognised and arresting beginnings to any work of classical music. Beethoven: Symphony No. 1 in C Beethoven: Violin Concerto in D Hilary Hahn (violin) Deutsche Kammerphilharmonie Bremen Paavo Järvi (conductor) This Prom will be repeated on Friday 30th July at 2pm.
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31-Jul-2010
BBC Proms - 2010: Proms Plus: Proms Literary Festival: Beethoven
Rana Mitter discusses whether we should still consider Beethoven as the embodiment of the archetypal romantic artist with a tortured soul. With guests Phil Grabsky, director of the film 'In Search of Beethoven' and eighteenth century historian Tim Blanning. Recorded in front of an audience at the Royal College of Music as part of the Proms Literary Festival.
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31-Jul-2010
BBC Proms - 2010: Prom 14: Beethoven: Beethoven - Part 1
BBC PROMS 2010 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Katie Derham A welcome return to the Proms for this polished German chamber orchestra in the second of the season's Beethoven Nights which revive a tradition common during the first decades of the Proms. Tonight, Artistic Director Paavo Jarvi conducts three works by Beethoven beginning with his First Symphony in which he staked his claim as the rightful heir to the Classical symphonic tradition. The orchestra is joined by American soloist Hilary Hahn in the richly expressive Violin Concerto - a work whose technical difficulties make it a pinnacle of the violin repertoire. The programme concludes with the Fifth Symphony with its explosive opening four-note motive among the most recognised and arresting beginnings to any work of classical music. Beethoven: Symphony No 1 in C Beethoven: Violin Concerto in D Hilary Hahn (violin) Deutsche Kammerphilharmonie Bremen Paavo Jarvi (conductor) This Prom will be repeated on Friday 30th July at 2pm.
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31-Jul-2010
BBC Proms - 2010: Prom 13: Cherubini, Schumann, Holt, Strauss: Cherubini, Schumann, Holt, Strauss - Part 2
BBC PROMS 2010 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Suzy Klein Principal conductor Thierry Fischer directs the BBC National Orchestra of Wales in a programme full of drama, excitement and the unexpected, opening with an overture of dark and stormy tensions. Schumann's optimistic first symphony then launches a complete cycle at the 2010 BBC Proms, marking the bicentenary of the composer's birth. Simon Holt's percussion concerto is scored for a collection of instruments laid out on a table, in much the same fashion that Holt's great uncle, a taxidermist, laid out the tools of his trade. Finally, music based on the exploits of a mischievous villain from German folklore. Merry Till Eulenspiegel cavorts through life, until he must answer for his crimes and trumpets and drums herald his journey to the scaffold, where his pranks are ended. Simon Holt: a table of noises (London premiere) Strauss: Till Eulenspiegels lustige Streiche Colin Currie (percussion) BBC National Orchestra of Wales Thierry Fischer (conductor) This Prom will be repeated on Thursday 29th July at 2pm.
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31-Jul-2010
BBC Proms - 2010: Prom 13: Cherubini, Schumann, Holt, Strauss: Cherubini, Schumann, Holt, Strauss - Part 1
BBC PROMS 2010 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Suzy Klein Principal conductor Thierry Fischer directs the BBC National Orchestra of Wales in a programme full of drama, excitement and the unexpected, opening with an overture of dark and stormy tensions. Schumann's optimistic first symphony then launches a complete cycle at the 2010 BBC Proms, marking the bicentenary of the composer's birth. Simon Holt's percussion concerto is scored for a collection of instruments laid out on a table, in much the same fashion that Holt's great uncle, a taxidermist, laid out the tools of his trade. Finally, music based on the exploits of a mischievous villain from German folklore. Merry Till Eulenspiegel cavorts through life, until he must answer for his crimes and trumpets and drums herald his journey to the scaffold, where his pranks are ended. Cherubini: Médée - overture Colin Currie (percussion) BBC National Orchestra of Wales Thierry Fischer (conductor) This Prom will be repeated on Thursday 29th July at 2pm.
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31-Jul-2010
BBC Proms - 2010: Prom 12: Schumann, J Strauss II, J Strauss I - Part 2
BBC PROMS 2010 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Sara Mohr-Pietsch Schumann's lyrical Piano Concerto continues the season's bicentenary celebrations of the composer's birth. Conducted by Vassily Sinaisky, the BBC Philharmonic is joined by acclaimed pianist Christian Zacharias who is fascinated by Schumann's music. 'Schumann, of course, is not easy', says Zacharias. 'He has rhythmically intricate ideas which suggest one thing but which actually hide another', like the 'hidden waltz' of the finale. After the interval, the spirit of the traditional Proms Viennese night is revived, with a variety of classics from the Strauss family. Dvorak: Slavonic Dance in E minor Op 72 No 2 Johann Strauss II: Die Fledermaus - overture Thunder and Lightning - polka Emperor Waltz By the Beautiful Blue Danube - waltz Johann Strauss I: Radetzky March Christian Zacharias (piano) BBC Philharmonic Vassily Sinaisky (conductor) This Prom will be repeated on Wednesday 28th July at 2pm.
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31-Jul-2010
BBC Proms - 2010: Prom 12: Schumann, J Strauss II, J Strauss I: Schumann, J Strauss II, J Strauss I - Part 1
BBC PROMS 2010 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Sara Mohr-Pietsch Schumann's lyrical Piano Concerto continues the season's bicentenary celebrations of the composer's birth. Conducted by Vassily Sinaisky, the BBC Philharmonic is joined by acclaimed pianist Christian Zacharias who is fascinated by Schumann's music. 'Schumann, of course, is not easy', says Zacharias. 'He has rhythmically intricate ideas which suggest one thing but which actually hide another', like the 'hidden waltz' of the finale. After the interval, the spirit of the traditional Proms Viennese night is revived, with a variety of classics from the Strauss family. Schumann: Overture, Scherzo and Finale, Op. 52 Schumann: Piano Concerto in A minor Christian Zacharias (piano) BBC Philharmonic Vassily Sinaisky (conductor) This Prom will be repeated on Wednesday 28th July at 2pm.
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31-Jul-2010
BBC Proms - 2010: Prom 10: Doctor Who Prom - Part 2
BBC PROMS 2010 Live from the Royal Albert Hall, London Presented by Petroc Trelawny The Doctor is back. Two years ago he appeared at the Proms via video link, this year he's here in person. Doctor Who (Matt Smith) comes to the Royal Albert Hall with his assistant Amy Pond (Karen Gillan) for an action-packed evening alongside the BBC National Orchestra of Wales and the London Philharmonic Choir. Monsters from the current run of the massively successful BBC series threaten to disrupt proceedings, and only the Doctor - ably assisted by conductors Ben Foster and Grant Llewellyn - can save the day. They're joined by Grant Llewellyn, a regular partner with the orchestra, for some classical favourites with a suitably celestial theme, including Mars from Holst's Planets Suite and John Adams's thrilling Short Ride in a Fast Machine (possibly even a time machine!). The score for each TV programme is written by Murray Gold and recorded by the BBC National Orchestra of Wales in their Cardiff studio, conducted by Ben Foster. Thrills, spills, adventures, monsters and special guests are all guaranteed along the way in this Proms spectacular. Petroc Trelawny has the unenviable task of keeping everything in order for Radio 3 - though sadly without the help of a sonic screwdriver. Murray Gold: Music from Doctor Who - Amy; Liz, Lizards, Vampires and Vincent; This is Gallifrey / Vale Decem; Pandorica Suite; Song of Freedom; Doctor Who Theme Orff: Carmina Burana - O Fortuna Wagner: Ride of the Valkyries (from Die Walküre) The Doctor (Matt Smith) Amy Pond (Karen Gillan) Rory (Arthur Darvil) Mark Chambers: singer Yamit Mamo: singer Murray Gold Band London Philharmonic Choir BBC National Orchestra of Wales Ben Foster (conductor) Grant Llewellyn (conductor).
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