On September 9, Marin Alsop returns to London’s Royal Albert Hall for her third performance at London’s Last Night of the Proms. Leading the BBC Symphony Orchestra and Chorus, Alsop will be joined by British cellist Sheku Kanneh-Mason and Norwegian soprano Lise Davidsen. Featuring the world premiere of 1922, a celebration of the BBC’s centenary from fast-rising British composer James B. Wilson, their program will once again see the conductor put her own characteristic spin on the event’s trademark mix of singalongs, sea shanties, flag-waving and humor.
Ten years ago, Alsop’s Last Night of the Proms debut was hailed as “one of the slickest Last Nights in recent memory with music and mayhem, virtuosity and fun, held in reasonably stable equilibrium” (The Arts Desk, UK). The Guardian affirmed:
“Of all Last Nights in recent memory, this was the most enjoyable, the least hysterical and the most warm-hearted. … This was, essentially, a Last Night in which the music came first. … Alsop led the BBC Symphony Orchestra, Chorus and top soloists in works from Handel to Broadway. She indulged the audience with three tries at ‘Land of Hope and Glory,’ her beat funkier with every attempt.”
This year’s concert also features works by Wagner, Mascagni, Verdi, Elgar and more.