Proms 2026 John Wilson Conducts the Sinfonia of London Strings

‘I alone hold the key to this wild parade.’ Benjamin Britten is the keystone of this second concert by John Wilson and the Sinfonia of London (see 24 July), a family tree of English music. The shimmering, kaleidoscopic visions of the composer’s orchestral song-cycle Les illuminations – performed by rising-star soprano Julie Roset – and the taut, witty invention of his Variations on a Theme of Frank Bridge are framed by works by members of Britten’s circle: teachers, friends and colleagues. Imogen Holst’s Suite for String Orchestra – her homage to England’s musical past and vision for its future – receives its Proms premiere.

John Wilson © Astrid Ackermann