The BBC Proms 2026 season promises a rich tapestry of musical experiences, from intimate baroque recitals to thundering Berlioz spectacles, alongside a strong showing of contemporary works. With 18 premieres scattered throughout the season, the programme balances tradition and innovation.
Early music enthusiasts are well served, with highlights including a late-night programme of Purcell, Handel and Dowland by Ensemble Jupiter and tenor Laurence Kilsby on 21 July. Notre-Dame organist Olivier Latry presents an all-Bach recital on 26 July, featuring transcriptions and an improvisation. The Orchestra of the Age of Enlightenment pairs Zelenka and Haydn spiritual works on 9 August, crowned by Arcangelo’s performance of Bach’s Mass in B minor on 10 September.
Three major Berlioz works feature, a rare treat outside anniversaries. Sir Antonio Pappano conducts the colossal Requiem on 15 August with its vast forces. Les Siècles under Jakob Lehmann perform La Damnation de Faust on 30 August, and Thomas Adès conducts the National Youth Orchestra in the Symphonie Fantastique alongside his own Dante ballet on 8 August.
New music includes Jessie Montgomery’s cello concerto These Righteous Paths with Abel Selaocoe on 20 July, Thea Musgrave’s Bassoon Concerto Out of the Darkness on 23 August, and Brett Dean’s The World’s Wife on 29 July. Minimalism is celebrated with Steve Reich’s 90th birthday, marked by performances of his Music for 18 Musicians.
