BBC Proms season announced for 2025
The upcoming BBC Proms season marks the festival’s 131st year and its 99th under BBC stewardship, featuring nearly two months of daily performances from 17 July to 12 September, reports BritPanorama.
In this year’s lineup, standing tickets—often referred to as “Promming”—remain affordable at £8, with broadcasts available live on BBC Radio 3 and online, alongside 25 concerts being televised on iPlayer for a year. Notably, the season celebrates significant anniversaries, including the 50th anniversary of Benjamin Britten’s death and the 90th birthday of Steve Reich.
However, the planning has been complicated by the backdrop of geopolitical tensions, particularly regarding the 250th anniversary of American independence amid a fraught political climate in the U.S. This year’s programme is filled with American music, showcasing orchestras, conductors, and soloists from the United States amidst ongoing controversies surrounding the BBC.
Sam Jackson, controller of BBC Radio 3 and the Proms, emphasized the importance of not allowing geopolitical issues to affect the celebration of music. “We cannot ever let the current geopolitical situation stifle great music,” Jackson stated, defending the decision to feature American composers such as Bernstein, Copland, and Barber alongside new commissions from contemporary figures like Jessie Montgomery.
Protests during the Proms are becoming familiar, as seen last year with controversies stemming from artistic choices. Jackson acknowledged this reality, emphasizing that the Proms should remain a neutral platform where art and music are celebrated without the imposition of political viewpoints. “It would be a dangerous world if we said that because of the actions of one country, the BBC should therefore start taking a view on whether American music should be heard,” he remarked.
Jackson brings extensive experience from his prior roles, including managing Classic FM and working in the record industry. This season’s repertoire reflects a diverse array of international orchestras, including the Los Angeles Philharmonic and the Berlin Philharmonic, along with notable soloists such as Martha Argerich, celebrating a remarkable return after six decades.
This year’s programme also showcases a significant commitment to accessibility, featuring the Paraorchestra and soloists who exemplify resilience, like Felix Klieser, a horn player who performs with his feet due to being born without arms.
This year sees an array of 20 newly commissioned works that exemplify the Proms’ commitment to innovation, including a new Concerto for Orchestra by Wynton Marsalis and a Triple Concerto by Gwilym Simcock. Concerts extend beyond London, with multiple performances scheduled across various locations, appealing to a broader audience.
Despite the impressive programming, Jackson acknowledges challenges facing the BBC, including the impending expiration of its Royal Charter. Discussions about future funding remain ongoing, creating uncertainty around the organisation’s longevity. “I don’t think anybody seriously expects that the BBC is not going to exist,” he affirmed, while also recognizing that planning must continue amidst these challenges.
With the Proms attracting significant audiences—over 90% ticket sales for the Royal Albert Hall and a notable increase in online viewership—Jackson remains optimistic about the future, underscoring the importance of championing the Proms as a cultural landmark. “We need to say how special it is and be unashamed about evangelising,” he concluded.
Booking for Proms Passes opens on 14 May, with general booking available on 16 May.
