If you ever fancy a slice of British culture that’s a bit posh but still fun, the Proms is your ticket. Yes, that’s right! The BBC Proms, an eight-week-long music festival, offers everything from classical masterpieces to modern compositions, right in the heart of London. It’s one of those experiences where you can be captivated by Wagner one minute and laughing at an unexpected burst of applause the next. You might even find yourself humming along to the last note on your way to the nearest pub.
Let’s rewind to the first time I ever stepped into the Royal Albert Hall. Honestly, my heart skipped a beat as I approached the grand circular building, and yes, I did take a moment to soak in its stunning architecture. A cup of rather dodgy tea (I won’t name names, but it was lukewarm at best) in hand, I felt a little nervous—would I be the only one wearing slightly scuffed shoes among a sea of smartly-dressed concertgoers? Spoiler alert: I absolutely was, but nobody seemed to notice or care.
The Proms runs from July to September, showcasing a dizzying array of performances. Think of it as an epic musical buffet, with more choices than you can shake a baton at. You have orchestras, choirs, and sometimes even surprise guests popping up for a cheeky encore.
Now, here’s what’s brilliant about the Proms: it’s inclusive. You don’t need to be an expert in Beethoven or wear a top hat. People come in all sorts of attire. I once saw a guy in a full tuxedo—and he wasn’t even in the orchestra! I admit, I giggled a bit as he strutted about like he owned the place.
On most nights, you can buy standing tickets for as little as £6! Which, let me tell you, is a steal for a night of exceptional music. Picture this: you and your mates jostling for a spot as the lights dim, the atmosphere crackling with excitement. You’re standing in what feels like a huge, elegant living room filled with strangers, yet everyone feels connected through the music.
The schedule is packed, and you might find yourself overwhelmed by the options. A few highlights in the 2023 programme included:
And if you fancy trying something new, look for themed nights. Sometimes they throw in quirky features like post-concert discussions where you can literally mingle with experts. Just don’t ask them about your dodgy tea experience—you may leave them scratching their heads instead!
Speaking of mingling, I once thought it would be clever to engage in a deep chat with a fellow Proms-goer about Elgar. In my excitement, I accidentally spilled my drink all over his newly polished shoes! Thankfully, he had a great sense of humour about it. He might have thought I was trying to make a bold statement about ‘drenching musical history’ or something equally pretentious. Instead, we ended up bonding over shared laughs and a moment that made the night even more memorable. I’ll just say, sometimes life’s little oopsies can lead to nice surprises.
The Proms’ charm goes beyond the music. Consider this:
Food stalls: Sure, you can grab a quick bite at the concession stands (though the veggie burger is a wild card, my friends). But don’t forget to explore nearby eateries. Just a short stroll away, you’ll find various dining options that steal the spotlight.
The Hall Itself: Take time to admire the Royal Albert Hall’s gorgeous interior. Grab a programme on your way in, and have a read as you soak it all in (the history, not the lukewarm tea).
If you’re planning a trip to the Proms this year, expect a few treats. There’s a whole set of world premieres lined up, plus collaborations with incredible artists from various genres. And don’t miss the chance to join in during the Last Night of the Proms—trust me, it’s a riot. There’s always that classic flag-waving, where the audience transforms into boisterous, slightly uncoordinated versions of flag-waving performers. There’s a certain joy in the chaos, and you’ll leave feeling as if you’ve been part of something special.
Don’t limit your experience to just the Proms. London’s bustling with things to see and do!
Kensington Gardens: Take a stroll before or after your concert. It’s a lovely spot to unwind and have a quick picnic.
The Science Museum: A couple of blocks away, if you fancy sprinkling a bit of knowledge on top of your musical education.
So, the Proms offers an experience that’s both classy and a little cheeky—a melting pot of musical heritage that welcomes all. It’s a highlight that can brighten up any summer. The excitement of sharing a space with so many like-minded people, all there for the love of music, makes it an unforgettable outing. And let’s be honest, who doesn’t want to go and witness Beethoven’s 5th while standing among fellow music lovers, with bad tea in hand?
If you haven’t yet, now’s your chance to swing into this unique British tradition. What say you? Have you attended the Proms before, or do you have a musical experience that made your heart skip a beat? Drop your stories in the comments; I’d love to hear about them!
