BBC Proms 2018

7.30PM, RADIO 3

Proms performances of Verdi’s great Requiem Mass seem to have an extra resonance. The vastness of the Royal Albert Hall suits the scale of the music, and the concentration of the Proms audience brings a depth of understanding and emotion to the work. The Mass takes us to Hell and back as the contralto section warns of God’s wrath heading humanity’s way, but Verdi leaves listeners with a vision of light and hope.

The London Philharmonic Choir and Orchestra take us through this mighty work tonight.