Performer: Chineke! Orchestra

Jonathon Heyward steps in to conduct Chineke! in two UK premieres and Shostakovich's rip-roaring Tenth Symphony. 

Chineke! Orchestra likes to do things differently and this concert, conducted by Andrew Grams, pairs symphonies by Tchaikovsky and the singer-songwriter-guitarist Armatrading. 

No hard hitters or big beasts in this colourful potpourri from the remarkable Chineke! Orchestra, conducted by Anthony Parnther, but a chance to savour both the unknown and the familiar.

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.

An overwhelming feeling of “could have been worse” as orchestras receive the long-awaited news of their Arts Council funding.

In the run up to Carl Craig’s collaboration with Chineke! at the Royal Albert Hall, we talk to the veteran techno DJ about classical music and his creative process.