Royal Philharmonic Concert Orchestra

BST – ‘ALL THINGS ORCHESTRAL’ Performed by The Royal Philharmonic Concert Orchestra

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American Express presents BST Hyde Park’s much loved classical music experience, All Things Orchestral, returns to Hyde Park for a third year as part of the Open House programme on Thursday 10 July. Hosted once more by Myleene Klass, the Royal Philharmonic Concert Orchestra – conducted by Ben Palmer – will whisk the audience on a journey through time, celebrating Cinematic Classics and orchestral favourites to include Star Wars, Indiana Jones and a special segment to commemorate the 80th anniversary of VE Day.

All Things Orchestral is particularly excited to be linking with Marvel Studios to present the exclusive world premiere of The Fantastic Four: First Steps orchestral suite written by Academy Award®-winning composer and director Michael Giacchino as part of the launch of the new film.  This will offer a rare insight into the creative process of one of Hollywood’s most inventive musical voices, ahead of his return to the Marvel Cinematic Universe as composer.  

As well as Michael Giacchino, today we announce that the sensational string duo FIRL, brilliant baritone Benjamin Appl join the bill. Tickets are on sale now, visit www.bst-hydepark.com/events/all-things-orchestral-thurs-10-july

FIRL is made up of Eos Counsell (violin, programming) and Gay-Yee Westerhoff (cello, piano/keyboards), two of the founding members of the groundbreaking classical crossover group BOND, the most successful string quartet of all time, with five million albums sold and counting. In addition to being part of BOND, both Eos and Gay-Yee regularly contribute to soundtracks for film and TV, and have recorded for and worked with some of the biggest names around. A brand new adventure for these two accomplished musicians, FIRL’s debut album Wildwood is a collection of cinematic, nature-inspired compositions for cello, violin, piano and birdsong. FIRL recently launched their debut album at the prestigious Royal Albert Hall. This record incorporates memories of the temperate rainforests of Wales (Eos’s homeland), to Japan and the deep- rooted connection with nature that we all share.

Internationally acclaimed baritone Benjamin Appl joins the line-up for All Things Orchestral. Renowned for his expressive performances and described as having a voice “that belongs to the last of the old great masters of song” (Süddeutsche Zeitung), Appl has appeared at major venues including Carnegie Hall, Wigmore Hall, the Concertgebouw and the Elbphilharmonie. A Gramophone Young Artist of the Year and former BBC New Generation Artist, he regularly performs with leading orchestras such as the Royal Concertgebouw, Staatskapelle Dresden and the Philadelphia Orchestra, bringing a rare blend of emotional depth and vocal mastery to every stage he graces.

Academy Award®-winning composer and director Michael Giacchino, the creative force behind some of the most iconic scores in contemporary cinema including Up, The Incredibles, The Batman, Spider-Man: No Way Home and Rogue One: A Star Wars Story joins All Things Orchestral to introduce the brand-new music from Marvel Studios’ upcoming film, the cinematic event of the summer The Fantastic Four: First Steps, out in UK cinemas on 24 July, starring Pedro Pascal, Vanessa Kirby, Joseph Quinn and Ebon Moss-Bachrach. Known for his sweeping cinematic flair and emotional depth, Giacchino’s work has earned him an Oscar®, Golden Globe®, BAFTA and multiple GRAMMY®s.

The hugely successful previous editions have featured some of the biggest names in classical music – from acclaimed US composer Laura Karpman to MILǑS, Alfie Boe and Esther Abrami. Last year’s show was hailed by Ham & High as “a real treat”, with The Upcoming noting, “You couldn’t ask for much more from a family-friendly entertaining programme… it is reassuring to see orchestral music on the menu of a major festival.”

True to the accessible ethos of BST Hyde Park’s Open House, All Things Orchestral will offer affordable tickets. With many orchestras and arts organisations struggling, and attendance of classical performances in decline, All Things Orchestral is here to remind people of the power of classical music, and introduce it to new audiences. Gold Circle ticket prices are available from £7.95 on first release.

They will be joined by Ben Palmer, Artistic Director of Covent Garden Sinfonia and Chief Conductor of both the Orchestra da Camera di Pordenone and Babylon Orchester Berlin, is a leading conductor renowned for his work with major orchestras worldwide including the London and Montreal Symphony Orchestras. He is one of the most sought-after specialists in live-to-picture and studio conducting, having been personally authorised by John Williams to conduct his film scores in concert, and praised by Hans Zimmer as “a masterclass in conducting.”

Returning to compère for a third year, TV and radio presenter, classically trained musician, bestselling author and passionate campaigner, Myleene Klass has hosted major shows like The Classic BRITs, Popstar to OperaStar, The One Show and Musical Masterpieces, presented on Classic FM and Smooth Radio since 2006 and 2014 respectively, and released multiple No.1 classical albums alongside Sunday Times bestselling parenting books.

So, keep your eyes peeled for general sale and get your picnic blanket ready to join us for a celebration of the incredible summer of orchestral music!

Lucy Noble, Artistic Director at AEG Presents, says “We’re delighted to bring All Things Orchestral back to BST Hyde Park for its third year! These concerts have helped show that classical and orchestral music is for everyone to enjoy, and we’re so thrilled to celebrate some of the world’s most exciting music – performed by the finest musicians – in an accessible and affordable way. Whether you’re a classical fan, or if you’ve never seen an orchestra perform live before, there will be something for people of all ages to enjoy – we’re looking forward to the perfect summer evening for all the family.”

Using BST Hyde Park’s famous Great Oak Stage, which has hosted the world’s biggest music legends since 2013, fans will be taken on a summer evening’s journey through classical music, both traditional and modern. This special event promises to be a spectacle for thousands of fans, offering not only the allure of exceptional music but also the beauty of the surroundings.

This historic park has been graced by legendary artists such as The Rolling Stones, Elton John, Carole King, Bruce Springsteen, Barbara Streisand, Billy Joel, Taylor Swift, Justin Bieber, and many more, adding an extra layer of magic to the experience.

Open House returns this summer – full dates and programme here: https://www.bst-hydepark.com/OPEN. It will take place across two weeks, starting from Monday 30th June – Thursday 10th July. Enjoy the long days and warm summer nights with an action-packed programme and free entry in the heart of Hyde Park.

BST Hyde Park returns with more superstars and unique shows. It has become THE place to be in the London summer, a date in the diary for hundreds of thousands of fans every year. This June and July will see more legendary artists take to the stage over three weekends with headliners Olivia Rodrigo (27 June), Zach Bryan (28 + 29 June) Noah Kahan (4 July), Sabrina Carpenter (5 + 6 July), neil young and the chrome hearts (11 July), Stevie Wonder (12 July) and Jeff Lynne’s ELO (13 July) taking over Hyde Park

https://www.bst-hydepark.com

Paloma Faith set for Hampton Court Palace Festival

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We are excited to announce that Paloma Faith will perform on 18th June and tickets for this concert will go on sale on Monday 19th January at 11am.

On confirming her date at the Festival, Paloma said: "I'm so thrilled to be playing at Hampton Court Palace Festival this June. I hear that the atmosphere is so intimate in the open air setting of base court – it will be the perfect setting for my summer concert." 
 
Renowned for her unique style, the Hackney-born singer has soared to fame since her early days on the cabaret scene. Now she is one of the leading lights, and has proudly received Four BRIT Award nominations to date, including British Female Solo Artist and Best British Album.
 
Paloma has worked with a legendary roster of music icons and singer-songwriters including Pharrell Williams, Diane Warren, John Legend and Raphael Saadiq; producing two double platinum selling albums in the UK. At the Festival, she will delight the audience with songs from her recent and most successful album to date,A Perfect Contradiction with top ten singles Can’t Rely on You and her first Number 1 Only Love Can Hurt Like This.

Britain’s favourite tenor Alfie Boe will return to the Festival on 19th June with his band performing classic tracks from a selection of his albums, including his latest album Serenata, which sees him bringing the magic and romance of the Italian Riviera to the UK. His success has seen him conquer the world’s most prestigious opera stages, led the cast of Les Miserables for nearly a year, and stolen the show at the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Concert at Buckingham Palace.
 
King of boogie woogie, Jools Holland & his Rhythm & Blues Orchestra will perform two energy-fuelled shows at the Palace where he will be joined by the fantastic Gilson Lavis on drums and the fabulous Ruby Turner and Louise Marshall. His passion for music has made him a doyen of the music scene, and he was awarded an OBE in 2003 for his services to the British music industry. With his show ‘Later with…Jools Holland’ now in its 45th series, and Jools’ Annual Hootenanny in its 22nd, Jools’ name has become synonymous with quality music.
 
The sumptuous sounds of the MGM Studio Orchestra will be revived by John Wilson & The John Wilson Orchestra on 14th June as they pay tribute to composers George Gershwin, Irving Berlin, Cole Porter, Harry Warren, Jerome Kern and Andre Previn, among others by performing some of Hollywood’s best loved songs and show-stopping sequences from the MGM film musicals.

Celebrated for his sold out annual appearances with the John Wilson Orchestra at the BBC Proms, all of which have been broadcast on television, John Wilson has established an international reputation as a conductor, arranger and scholar. The John Wilson Orchestra is a unique hand-picked ensemble of some of the world’s finest musicians specialising in authentic concert performances of classic film musical scores.
 
The Royal Philharmonic Concert Orchestra returns for a glorious evening ofFanfare & Fireworks. Against the backdrop of the Tudor courtyard the Orchestra will perform scores from the mainstream masters of classical music, culminating in Handel’s rousing Music for the Royal Fireworks. After the concert, Festival-goers will experience a spectacular fireworks display over the Palace.

Hampton Court Palace Festival announce Cliff Richard, Frankie Valli & the Four Seasons and more

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British icon, Cliff Richard, will be this year’s headline artist and will sing in the stunning open-air court of King Henry VIII’s Palace for two nights – Saturday 22nd and Sunday 23rd June. Having established himself as one of Europe’s authentic rock ‘n’ roll stars and selling a staggering 250 million records to date, Cliff will delight the audience with his spectacular live performance of best loved classics and new songs

Following a sensational sell out performance last year, which marked their UK comeback after a 20 year break,the Festival is delighted to welcome back Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons, one of America’s most successful pop and rock group from the 1960s. The group will give fans another chance to hear many of theirclassic hits such as Big Girls Don’t Cry, Walk Like A Man, Can’t Take My Eyes Off Of You, Bye, Bye, Baby (Baby Goodbye) and December 1963 (Oh What A Night)

The UK’s best ever selling classical artist Russell Watson will also be performing with his orchestra. Having won four Classical BRITS, Russell will perform many of his well-known songs including those from ‘Anthems’, his most recent album release. Russell’s special guests will be Amore, the stunning classical vocal quartet.  Commenting on his appearance at the Festival, Russell said, “I'm delighted to be taking part in the Hampton Court Palace Festival this summer. I'm thoroughly looking forward to performing alongside some truly great artists and musical talent."

We are also delighted to host the incredible Lisa Stansfield for her only London date this year. A multi Brit Award winner, Lisa has sold over 20 million records throughout her career. Best known for her smash hits All Around the World, So Natural and All Woman, the audience will be treated to her greatest hits. Lisa said: "After having such a great time last year in the UK with my three sold out shows, I'm so excited to be touring once again and I cannot wait to perform at Hampton Court Palace this June!"

Bringing 50s glamour and rock ‘n’ roll to the Festival is the hugely popular singer Imelda May. With a triple platinum album under her belt and gold certified album Mayhem, Imelda will wow the audience with her powerful vocal.

Incredible blues rock duo, Joe Bonamassa and Beth Hart, will make their Festival debut this year. One of the world’s greatest guitar players and a child prodigy, Joe Bonamassa was opening shows for blues icon B.B. King by the age of 12. Singer-songwriter Beth Hart is known for her powerful vocals and soul-baring performances. Beth and Joe will feature songs from their highly anticipated second album due to be released in May, alongside selections from their critically acclaimed debut duo album, Don’t Explain. Beth and Joe are very excited by their new project and plan to bring their individual virtuoso strengths to a grand live stage in the beautiful setting of Hampton Court Palace.

We are also thrilled that the internationally acclaimed Björn Again, will bring a night of ABBA fun to theFestival. Designed as a rocked-up, light-hearted show, it rapidly achieved world-wide cult status and was acknowledged for single-handedly initiating the ABBA revival which brought about ABBA Gold, Muriel’s Wedding and MAMMA MIA! The enduring appeal of ABBA is reflected in the ongoing success of the Björn Again show, having amassed 5,000 performances in 71 countries in 25 years. The show was created and founded in 1988 in Melbourne by Australian director and musician Rod Stephen. Recently acknowledged by ABBA’s blonde vocalist Agnetha Fältskog, Rod aims to keep his typically Australian production at the top and will continue for as long as people want to hear the much-loved ABBA repertoire performed the Björn Again way.

Now a veteran of the Hampton Court Palace Festival, Jools Holland will be one of the highlights of our summer concerts. His passion for music has made him a doyen of the music scene, and he was awarded an OBE in 2003 for his services to the British music industry. Jools’ phenomenal success has seen him sell millions of records throughout the course of his career and he holds the unique status of performing with musicians who have achieved success in every decade of the 20th Century. Special guests include the fantastic former Squeeze drummer Gilson Lavis, Roland Gift (the voice of Fine Young Cannibals) and Ruby Turner who together withJools and his fantastic Rhythm & Blues Orchestra will raise the roof of the magnificent Palace once again.

The Royal Philharmonic Concert Orchestra also returns to the Festival for another spectacular classicalevening. The Orchestra will perform scores from the mainstream masters of classical music: Handel’s Music for the Royal Fireworks to Tchaikovsky’s waltz; from Swan Lake to Ravel’s Bolero. Young and upcoming trumpeter Melissa Venema from the Netherlands will perform the ever popular classic, Haydn’s Trumpet Concerto. There will be a long interval so that Festival-goers can enjoy their picnics and Champagne in the Palace Gardens as the sun sets. A fireworks display will provide a visual fanfare to round off this superb evening

In addition to the music, Hampton Court Palace Festival is renowned for creating a truly unforgettable experience. Artists perform in the historic main courtyard of the magnificent Tudor Palace providing an intimate atmosphere for an audience of 3,000. Corporate hospitality is available in the State Apartments and Festival-goers can also arrive early (doors open at 5pm) to enjoy picnics, courtesy of Jamie Oliver’s Fabulous Feasts, on the Palace Garden lawn or underneath a luxury waterside gazebo before the show.