Last Night of the Proms

Review

by Patrick Mulkern

A juicy and eclectic season judders to a close with a packed programme and Andrew Davis in charge of the BBC Symphony Orchestra. A veteran of the Last Night (he conducted the lion’s share in the 90s), he’s stayed well clear for 18 years. What’s tempted him back to this frenzied spectacle? Maybe he just likes to party.

Look out for saxophonist Jess Gillam, the breath of fresh air from Ulverston who reached the BBC Young Musician final in 2016; now 20, she’ll whack us between the ears with Milhaud’s Scaramouche. And there will be traditional First World War songs nationwide to mark the centenary of 1918.

Much to savour before the challenging but unstoppable bawl-along-and-wave-the-flag finale.

Summary

The classical music celebration continues live from the Royal Albert Hall with the ever-popular Marche militaire francaise by Saint-Saens. Award-winning 18-year-old saxophonist Jess Gillam performs Scaramouche by Milhaud. Plus, baritone Gerry Finley performs the Soliloquy from Rodgers and Hammerstein's Carousel, and there is a nationwide sing-along of traditional First World War songs with contributions from the Proms in the Park events in Swansea, Glasgow and Belfast. The event is then brought to its familiar and rousing close with Rule, Britannia!, Land of Hope and Glory and Jerusalem. The BBC Symphony Orchestra and Chorus and BBC Singers are conducted by Andrew Davis. Presented by Katie Derham.