Proms Concert At Robin Hill Raises Money For Mountbatten Hospice

Sunshine, picnics and world-class music combined for a memorable evening as the annual Proms concert returned to Robin Hill, raising money for Mountbatten Hospice.

Guests arrived early to enjoy picnics and refreshments before the music began, creating a relaxed atmosphere ahead of a programme featuring acclaimed soloists and the Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra.

The evening opened with soprano Thea Callaghan, whose performance captivated the audience with its powerful vocals and impressive range.

Award-winning pianist Thomas Luke followed with a varied programme that included classical works by Haydn, his interpretation of Michael Jackson's Human Nature and one of his own compositions, inspired by a visit to Texas.

Thomas won the keyboard category of Young Pianist of the Year in 2020.

Violinist Lizzie Bell, accompanied by pianist James Pearson, then took to the stage with a programme ranging from tango to Irish folk music and Vivaldi's Summer.

Between pieces, she spoke about her regular performances at London's Ronnie Scott's jazz club and her decade touring as orchestra leader for Nigel Kennedy's Four Seasons.

After the interval, the Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra filled the stage for a programme featuring music by Strauss, Arlen, Mendelssohn, Mozart, De Senneville and Grieg, before bringing the audience together with traditional Proms favourites including Rule, Britannia!, Jerusalem and Pomp and Circumstance.

As darkness fell, Union Flags waved across the crowd, with many audience members joining in the celebrations.

The evening reached its finale with the Dambusters March, accompanied by a spectacular fireworks display from the team behind the Isle of Wight Festival fireworks.

The Proms was organised by Paul Cox, who also staged a second concert the following evening celebrating music from the big screen, featuring scores from films including Harry Potter and Star Wars.

Both concerts raised money for Mountbatten Hospice, continuing the event's support for the Island charity.

• Thank you to the delightful Jo Macaulay for the review

• Credit for all images: Sienna Anderson (equally as delightful)