If the previous Welsh Proms are anything to go by, then this year’s should be as spectacular as ever. The week long classical music event is now in its 31st year, and this year conductor Owain Arwel Hughes CBE has pulled out all the stops, with five main concerts featuring incredible orchestras and soloists, as well as debuts of new work and compositions from renowned artists.
This year commemorates many anniversaries, including the centenary of Roald Dahl’s birth, the centenary of the Battle of the Somme, and the 50th anniversary of the Aberfan disaster. The five main shows are as follows: Verdi: Requiem, The Planets / Shadows of War, Classical Extravaganza, Brass & Voices, and the ever popular Last Night of the Proms. All performances feature popular and well known orchestras and choirs joining together to create unforgettable performances. Choirs, choruses and orchestras from all around the UK are set to perform, but this does not detract from the Welsh talent, with the Welsh National Opera orchestra teaming up with numerous Welsh choirs and four popular Welsh soloists to perform Requiem to mark the first day of the Proms. Other Welsh acts are set to perform alongside the Liverpool and Bournemouth orchestras, with the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra rounding up the event.
The Last Night of the Proms sounds incredible, with the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra commemorating their 70th anniversary and world famous compositions set to be performed include Tchaikovsky’s Swan Lake, Star Wars and A Midsummer Night’s Dream and a world premiere performance of a celebration of the life of Roald Dahl. Welsh songs are to be played concluding the Welsh Proms, showcasing Wales’ raw musical talent which is continuously reaffirmed each year of the Proms. Additional events are running alongside the main shows, with organ, jazz and family performances appealing to younger audiences and people who want to experience classical music for the first time.
This July is full of musical events, but the Welsh Proms is not one to be missed. Owain Arwel Hughes CBE’s directing will be faultless as ever, each year becoming better than the last.
words BETH GIRDLER-MASLEN
The Welsh Proms, St David’s Hall, Cardiff, Sat 16 – Sat 23 July. Tickets: £7.50 – £30.50. Info: 029 2087 8444 / www.welshproms.com