The 2023 Proms will pay special tribute to the extraordinary film music of Alfred Hitchcock, featuring orchestral suites composed expressly for his films. This year’s festival will include two concerts featuring music from “The Man Who Knew Too Much,” the 1934 spy thriller that was later re-arranged by Bernard Herrmann for Hitchcock’s Hollywood remake in 1956. The new works will feature prominently in a concert at London’s legendary Royal Albert Hall. This performance will deepen the relationship of the music to its movie origin.
As if by some cosmic happenstance, the climactic sequence of “The Man Who Knew Too Much” is set inside that very same Albert Hall. There, for example, actor Jimmy Stewart’s impassioned pursuit of an assassin. Hitchcock’s impact and legacy are still felt today, especially with his captivating, filmic soundscape. They’ll reverberate in the hall where he made most of his poetic turns.
Elim Chan conducting the Last Night of the Proms on September 13. Timin Wang Audiences are sure to be amazed by a spine-tingling climax drawn from Alfred Hitchcock’s taste for the cinematic macabre. This year’s Proms includes 86 concerts throughout the festival. Join us in anticipating sets from Gateshead, Bristol, Bradford, Belfast, and Sunderland, all along weaving a wonderfully rich tapestry of musical expression!
Artistic planning director Hannah Donat worked in unison with Sam Jackson, controller of BBC Radio 3, to curate this year’s festival. Their collaboration would come to be central to its success. Donat added that she was thrilled to be bringing Hitchcock’s music into the main stage of the Proms.
“There’s a piece of music that I’d wanted to get into the Proms for some time,” – Hannah Donat.
She said including music about and from Hitchcock’s films helps to make the festival even more special. It’s more than an inspiring documentary – it’s a loving homage to cinema fans.
“The final scene takes place in the Albert Hall,” – Hannah Donat.
Her enthusiasm embodies a commitment to connecting the worlds of classical music and popular culture, to deepen and enrich every audience member’s experience.
“It’s one of those little winks to the audience that I like to include during the season,” – Hannah Donat.
Edward Gardner will return to the rostrum for his 24th appearance at the Proms this August. This is a huge accomplishment for him, both personally and professionally. His continued involvement reinforces the years and years of excellence that have long been a part of this annual gathering.
Their acceptance into classical music repertoire, often shown by inclusion on major programs, is indicated through the regular inclusion of works from Hitchcock’s repertoire. Audiences are getting ready for the Last Night of the Proms on September 13. They should look forward to an exciting night that combines familiar memories with new interpretations of their favorite music.
Canadian mezzo-soprano Emily D’Angelo, already a star in the making, makes her Proms debut with Norwegian soprano Mari Eriksmoen and the Hallé orchestra. D’Angelo’s voice, which has brought him much fame and praise, has been called
“a thing of wonder.” – source.
This year’s rich and varied lineup demonstrates a blend of honoring and celebrating talent while recognizing and honoring musical legacy.
This artist Hannah Donat reflected on the magic of live performances at the Royal Albert Hall and just what makes this kind of experience special.
“People don’t worry too much about knowing the repertoire inside out – there’s just something spectacular about the Albert Hall and seeing the orchestra onstage.” – Hannah Donat.
With this in mind, the Proms are incredibly successful at being inclusive, accessible and enjoyable to everyone, not just those with a deep knowledge of classical music. This multidisciplinary, community-minded approach is perhaps most immediately seen in each concert’s intention of welcoming both established enthusiasts and casual attendees.
Alongside Hitchcock’s music, festival artistic director Anna Lapwood will be working on a host of other projects during the festival. She told us about how captivated she was with the Royal Albert Hall after dark.
“I spend a lot of time at the Albert Hall in the middle of the night, practising, and I find it fascinating that the building is still just running overnight,” – Anna Lapwood.
Lapwood stressed the energy in the space, including during off hours. He compared it to the magic of “A Night At The Museum.” Her observations make clear the Royal Albert Hall’s double agenda. It serves as a dynamic performance venue while shows are on. It doubles as an arts & culture incubator both day and night.
This year’s Proms has been an incredible program that sought to bridge the gaps between many different types of music. More importantly, it truly engages a broad audience.
“Everyone likes to go to Wimbledon, even if they don’t watch tennis for the rest of the year; and everyone likes to go to a Prom, even if they’re not going to concerts for the rest of the season,” – Hannah Donat.
This year’s fest looks to be another amazing cultural musical celebration. ‘Tis the season for rehearsing and planning as we get ready for another amazing Proms season. Patrons should expect thrilling performances featuring an electrifying combination of beloved favorites and new works that showcase today’s artistry.
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