Sir Roger Norrington talks about the “number one gig in the world”

By Chris Billingham

Tomorrow evening will see the Royal Albert Hall fill with excitement and anticipation as some of the world’s finest classical musicians perform at the Last Night of the Proms, the conclusion to 2013’s BBC Proms. Marin Alsop will direct an evening beginning with a celebratory new work by Anna Clyne, going on to include a rare performance of Britten’s 1967 overture for chorus and orchestra ‘The Building of the House’ and of course concluding with the traditional and much-loved classics, including ‘Land of Hope and Glory’.

Southern Sinfonia’s Patron, Sir Roger Norrington, conducted the Last Night of the Proms in 2008. In an exclusive interview, he describes the event as “the number one gig in the world”, stating that it is exciting that it means “so many things to so many people”.

When asked about particular memories and highlights of the 2008 event, Sir Roger said that “conducting ‘Land of Hope and Glory’ was a wonderful feeling. Between those in the Royal Albert Hall, the thousands of people in the park and everyone watching worldwide – it’s the definitely the biggest choir I’ll ever have!”

As well as leading from the podium, it will also be Marin Alsop’s responsibility to deliver the traditional ‘Last Night’ speech. When asked about his speaking duties, Sir Roger talked about how “nerve making” this particular section of the evening was. He explained: “it’s a big responsibility as you have to thank everyone for the whole of the Proms, the greatest music festival in the world”.

What is it that makes the festival so special? For Sir Roger it is largely about “the warmth of feeling coming off the audience, like an electric fire. They really are one of the best audiences in the world”. With this level of support from the crowd, Marin Alsop is sure to have a spectacular evening.

However, it has not come without its controversy, and tomorrow night will see history in the making as Alsop becomes the Last Night’s first female conductor. This been discussed in the press at great length, with musicians as varied as mezzo soprano Sarah Connolly and conductor Vasily Petrenko weighing in on the debate. However, Sir Roger says: “I think it’s great that a woman is conducting. She is a very good conductor and I will be watching with interest and enjoyment”.

And that is surely all that matters, the excitement and buzz that tomorrow’s event, and indeed the whole of the Proms, creates.

A member of our team is lucky enough to be attending tomorrow; look out for what she has to say about the evening very soon on our blog. Have you managed to get a ticket? What has been your Proms 2013 highlight? Southern Sinfonia loved the National Youth Orchestra of the United States of American Prom (Pictured Left).

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