Proms on the Wicket

The Proms series has been staged since 1895 and has grown from being a celebration of purely classical music to eight weeks of music across a range of genres. From Berlioz to Bollywood via jazz, musical theatre and children’s concerts, it all culminates in the Last Night and the traditional favourites of Elgar and Parry.

Guernsey has held its own Proms event since 2005 and this year’s Proms on the Wicket will take place at the KGV Playing Fields on Saturday 14 September.

The event aims to showcase the wealth of talented local musicians and welcomes back Guernsey Symphonic Winds to make their fifth appearance in the live concert. The band includes a large number of musicians who were taught by the Guernsey Music Service and was established nearly 20 years ago. Their programme will include a selection of uplifting and joyful music from the classical, military band, jazz, pop and musical theatre repertoire and there will be something that appeals to everyone.

The founding principle of the Proms series was to promote the best in classical music to the widest audience by keeping ticket prices low or free to attend. That principle has always been a key component of Proms on the Wicket, which remains free to attend thanks to the support of the local business community. The year the event welcomes a new principal sponsor, Highvern, alongside long term supporter Guernsey Arts.

“We are very proud to be supporting the Proms on the Wicket event this year, helping to deliver the joy of music to a wide and diverse audience,” said Kerrie Le Tissier, Director of Highvern.

“As a musician and member of Guernsey Symphonic Winds, and a huge fan of live music myself, I am delighted to be supporting this event as it gives islanders the rare opportunity to enjoy live music in an open space, free from the constraints of a traditional concert hall. Highvern is keen to embrace and encourage artistic talent in all its many forms and is excited to be playing such a large role in this annual showcase.”

To keep with the music theme, two musicals will be shown on the big screen before the concert and the event will finish with the second half of the Last Night of the Proms live from the Albert Hall. Organisers ask for donations on the gate to help cover the costs to stage the event. Donations are made in exchange for an all-important union jack flag to wave throughout the evening.