BATTLE Proms returns to Highclere Castle this summer.
In addition to a full orchestral programme of sublime classical music, this unique open-air picnic concert on Saturday, August 2 features a carefully choreographed Spitfire aerial display, live cannon fire and a stunning firework finale.
The concert takes place on the lawns directly in front of this iconic building, affording wonderful views of the striking Downton Abbey architecture and offering incredible photo opportunities, especially during the dramatic firework finale!
This year the thrilling and ever popular mounted skill-at-arms display by an expert cavalry troop will be carried out in WW1 regalia to mark the 100th anniversary of the start of the First World War, just one of many elements in the 2014 programme that will pay homage to this important historical anniversary.
Battle Promenaders will also be treated to the Battle Proms signature piece – Beethoven’s Battle Symphony – performed as he intended with the full complement of 193 live firing cannon providing a thunderous percussion!
Conducted by Douglas Coombes and performed by the New English Concert Orchestra, the programme will also include soul-stirring classical favourites suited to the grandeur of the historic settings.
From Tchaikovsky’s 1812 Overture (which also gets the ‘Battle Proms treatment’ of live cannon fire) to a sing-along finale packed with all the prom favourites such as Jerusalem, Land of Hope and Glory and Rule Britannia.
Much loved Songs of Praise presenter and celebrated compère, Pam Rhodes will be hosting the event, and there will be a virtuoso performance of Weber’s Clarinet Concerto No. 1 as young clarinettist Jordan Black makes his first Battle Proms appearance.
Soprano Denise Leigh will perform enchanting arias before bringing the finale to life - and the crowd to their feet – as the spectacular firework display lights up the summer sky.
Widely regarded as one of the most exciting summer proms concerts in the country, this is an event that fans return to year after year, to enjoy a memorable night out with friends or for a significant celebration.
Tickets: battleproms.com, 01432 355 416.
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