The BBC Proms 2025, running from Friday 18 July to Saturday 13 September at the Royal Albert Hall and venues across the UK, will feature 86 concerts showcasing over 3,000 artists in what promises to be an extraordinary eight-week celebration of classical music and beyond.
First Night Highlights
The First Night of the Proms 2025, scheduled for Friday 18 July at the Royal Albert Hall, promises a spectacular opening to the festival with a diverse program conducted by Sakari Oramo. The evening begins with Sir Arthur Bliss's Birthday Fanfare for Sir Henry Wood, followed by Mendelssohn's evocative 'Hebrides' Overture and Sibelius's Violin Concerto performed by acclaimed violinist Lisa Batiashvili. The second half features the world premiere of "The Elements" by Errollyn Wallen, a BBC commission, and concludes with Ralph Vaughan Williams's oratorio "Sancta Civitas," which was completed a century ago.
The performance will showcase an impressive lineup of soloists including tenor Caspar Singh and baritone Gerald Finley, alongside the BBC Symphony Orchestra, BBC Symphony Chorus, and BBC Singers. Classical music enthusiasts can experience this opening concert live at the Royal Albert Hall or tune in to the broadcast on BBC Two and BBC iPlayer. This carefully curated program blends established masterpieces with new compositions, setting the tone for the festival's commitment to both tradition and innovation.
Samara Joy's Jazz Debut
Samara Joy, the 25-year-old jazz vocalist from the Bronx, will make her Carnegie Hall debut on April 30, 2025, marking a significant milestone in her meteoric rise to jazz stardom. With five Grammy Awards already under her belt—including Best New Artist in 2023 and two wins each for Best Jazz Vocal Album and Best Jazz Performance—Joy has established herself as one of the most prominent voices in contemporary jazz. Her classic sound has resonated particularly with younger audiences, as she's become a star of "JazzTok," introducing the genre to a new generation through social media platforms where strangers have gravitated toward her authentic performances.
Joy's 2025 is shaping up to be another landmark year in her career, with several prestigious appearances scheduled. Beyond her Carnegie Hall debut, she will receive the Ella Fitzgerald Award at the 2025 Montreal Jazz Festival on June 28, and perform at international venues including the TSF Jazz Chantilly Festival in France and the Montreux Jazz Festival in Switzerland. Coming from a rich musical lineage—her grandparents founded the Philadelphia gospel group The Savettes and her father toured with gospel artist Andraé Crouch—Joy brings an authenticity to jazz that has earned her fans ranging from everyday listeners to celebrities like Anita Baker, Regina King, and Chaka Khan.
Promming Ticket Guide
Promming is a beloved BBC Proms tradition that offers affordable access to world-class performances for just £8 per ticket (including booking fees). These standing tickets are available in the Arena and Gallery areas of the Royal Albert Hall, with a limited number of seated spaces for those unable to stand. Day Promming tickets typically become available at 9:30am on the day of each concert and can be purchased until 5 minutes before the performance starts.
To secure your Promming tickets, simply visit the concert's event page on the BBC Proms website where a red 'Day Promming' button will appear when tickets are available. For select popular performances, tickets are released at 9:30am the day before the concert. Alternative options include Weekend Promming Passes (ranging from £19.50-£26.00) that cover multiple concerts, or Season Passes for £272 that include access to almost all shows including the coveted Last Night of the Proms. No formal dress code applies—wear whatever makes you comfortable while enjoying this accessible cultural experience.
Where to Stay: Mercure London Hyde Park Hotel
For guests attending the BBC Proms 2025 at the Royal Albert Hall, the Mercure London Hyde Park Hotel offers a stylish and convenient stay just minutes away from the venue. Nestled in a tranquil garden square near Paddington Station and Hyde Park, the hotel features boutique-style rooms, complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi, a 24-hour fitness centre, and the charming Bella Italia restaurant on-site.
With excellent transport links and a peaceful yet central location, Mercure London Hyde Park is the perfect base for concertgoers looking to enjoy the Proms and explore London’s cultural treasures. Whether you're in town for a single night or an extended stay, the hotel combines modern comfort with classic London charm—making your musical getaway both relaxing and memorable.
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