Summer Proms
The first Summer Proms began back in 1894 when the Manager of the Queen’s Hall, Mr. Robert Newman devised the concept of bringing classical music to the masses by holding a series of summer concerts open to all. Whilst classical music had always had an audience, concerts had always been associated with the wealthier classes and this was his opportunity to educate and reach out to anyone and everyone who wanted to hear some of the finest musical recitals.
With the help of young musician and conductor Henry Wood, Newman set about devising a programme that would feature a number of ‘easier’ pieces and gradually introduce more complex and challenging musical performances. The first of Newman’s ‘Promenade Concerts’ was performed on August 10th, 1895 – so called because, as is still the case today, a large part of the seating area had no seats and so audiences had to stand for up to three hours during the performances. Regular ‘Prommers’, however, will agree that this is certainly the best place to be.
The Proms consists of 70 main Prom concerts at the Royal Albert Hall over the course of the summer, however, there are also numerous other Summer Proms that take place in many castles, abbeys and country houses around the UK running from July to September. Here are just a few of the better known locations and what you can expect when you get there.
London, BBC Proms in the Park
The London part of the Proms in the Park celebrations traditionally offers a wide and eclectic mixture of music; combining contemporary classical with the more traditional. Audiences can expect to see performances from favourite sopranos and tenors such as Lesley Garrett and Jose Carreras, as well as solo musical performances and celebrity compares. A live performance from the BBC Concert Orchestra is followed by a live big-screen link up with the Royal Albert Hall for the traditional finale of ‘Land of Hope and Glory’, ‘Jerusalem’ and the National Anthem.
Belfast, BBC Proms in the Park
Held at City Hall, Donegall Square, the city of Belfast can expect a musical extravaganza from the Ulster Orchestra as well as a host of local and international talent.
Glasgow, BBC Proms in the Park
Held on Glasgow Green, the Glasgow Proms in the Park has traditionally strived to offer a combination of classical and contemporary music for its audiences. Crowds at the 2008 concert can expect to see the Scottish Symphony Orchestra, the National Youth Choir of Scotland and…The Red Hot Chilli Peppers.
Swansea, BBC Proms in the Park
Held at Singleton Park, the Welsh Summer Proms has a large audience capacity. The National Orchestra and Chorus of Wales perform a large selection of classical anthems. A satellite link up with the Royal Albert Hall for the traditional Last Night celebrations promises a breathtaking climax of audience-participation singing and fireworks.
Weston Park Summer Proms, Staffordshire
Previous Proms at Weston Park have attracted massive crowds, and with such a picturesque setting it should come as no surprise. With a combination of classical anthems, movie themes, operatic favourites and patriotic music, audiences can expect a rousing evening shared with a number of celebrity performers from the world of classical music and stars of the West End. The 2008 Summer Proms features a WWII Spitfire display and fabulous firework finale.
Calke Abbey Summer Proms, Derbyshire
The beautiful historic setting of Calke Abbey only rouses the senses more during the amazing WWII Spitfire demonstration, perfectly choreographed to the theme from the Dambusters by the English National Orchestra. This is British patriotism at its very finest. Audiences can enjoy this splendid picnic arena as they watch and listen to some of the finest performances from the classical world.
Castle Howard Proms, North Yorkshire
One of the grandest private residences in the UK, Castle Howard makes a particularly beautiful backdrop for the annual Summer Proms. The WWII Spitfire aerial display once again confirms this as an evening of patriotism and audiences are always more than happy to join in with their Union Jack flags flying high throughout the spectacular firework display.
Harewood House Proms, Leeds
Home to the Queen’s cousin, the Earl of Harewood, Harewood House makes for a particularly special location to hold an outdoor concert that celebrates all things British. With a stunning performance from the English National Orchestra as well as the WWII Spitfire display, the programme is packed with all of the popular classics, film themes and of course, a flag-waving frenzy for ‘Rule Britannia’ and ‘Land of Hope and Glory’.
Leeds Castle, Kent. Music Proms
Set on two islands on the River Len in Kent, Leeds castle provides a glorious backdrop for this grand annual afternoon picnic prom. The 2008 ‘Family Prom in the Big Top’ promises a real family event with the British Philharmonic Orchestra performing a mixture of classical compositions as well as the theme tunes from ‘Harry Potter’, ‘Superman’, ‘Stars and Stripes Forever’ and, of course, ‘Land of Hope and Glory’.
Going to a Prom
Anyone and everyone is welcome at the Summer Proms, which is why they can make for a great day’s entertainment with the whole family. Bringing a picnic is positively encouraged, though remember that you are visiting a stately home so all guests are asked to respect the grounds and not drop litter. If you’re going to be there for the whole day, then bring enough clothes to keep you warm in the evening. There are no seats provided so bring your own chairs or a rug to sit on but again, guests are asked to respect others and avoid blocking views where possible.
The use of recording equipment is prohibited but there are usually souvenir programmes and CDs on sale after the event for you to watch again and again. Barbeques and garden flares are also prohibited, as are pets – remember that there will be an aerial display and a fireworks display so guests of a nervous disposition or with sensitivity to bright lights should be wary.
