Performer: Ilan Volkov

Grisey and Stockhausen show the value of old-school technique in a festival of music from the recent past and futuristic present.

A powerful enthusiasm for ideas links highly contrasting works by Ives, Gershwin, Zappa and George Lewis, in a thrilling evening conducted by Ilan Volkov.

Given a new production by Evgeny Titov, Benjamin's second full-length opera is musically brilliant, but its examination of our inner darkness lacks heart. 

With a focus on Shostakovich, and many prestigious guest orchestras from around Europe, this year’s BBC Proms confirms orchestral music can make a big public statement.

Stretching over 8 weeks, and with concerts in London and 6 cities across the UK, this year’s BBC Proms has a vast offering – including guest orchestras, premieres, and celebrations of Holst, Bruckner and Schoenberg.