The 2026 BBC Proms will feature a diverse array of music, including selections from the James Bond films and a celebration of progressive rock. The season will run for eight weeks, starting on July 17, and will include 86 concerts across various locations such as London, Gateshead, Bristol, Middlesbrough, Sunderland, and Mold.
Concert Highlights
This year’s programme will celebrate notable composers and musicians, including:
- Benjamin Britten, marking the 50th anniversary of his death
- Miles Davis, in honor of his centenary
- Steve Reich, who will celebrate his 90th birthday with performances of his works
Other highlights include:
- A tribute to Disney composer Alan Menken
- A concert featuring the Met Orchestra from New York, focusing on Mahler and Strauss
- A celebration of Paul Simon’s “Graceland” album, led by South Africa’s Ladysmith Black Mambazo
Notable Performers
The season will showcase a variety of talented musicians, including:
- Dame Evelyn Glennie, percussionist
- Louise Alder, soprano
- Yuja Wang, pianist
- Yunchan Lim, performing Ravel’s piano concerto in G Major
Additionally, the Paraorchestra will present an immersive performance of Steve Reich’s “Music for 18 Musicians” at Bristol’s Beacon Hall, marking 50 years since its premiere. The concert will feature disabled musicians, including soloist Alessandro Vazzana, who plays an innovative instrument using eye movements.
Special Events
The Proms will also include a “Bond and Beyond” concert on August 25, hosted by actor Nick Mohammed, featuring music from popular James Bond films. The Prog Prom on July 18 will explore progressive rock, curated by BBC 6 Music DJ Stuart Maconie, with orchestral arrangements of hits by bands such as Genesis and Jethro Tull.
In addition to these events, the Proms will mark the 250th anniversary of the signing of the US Declaration of Independence with a season of American music, featuring works by Leonard Bernstein, George Gershwin, and Aaron Copland.
The season will conclude on September 12 with the traditional Last Night celebrations, conducted by Sakari Oramo. The finale will include a medley of sea shanties and the classic “Pomp and Circumstance.” More than 300,000 tickets will be available, with a significant portion priced at £8.
Source: Original report