Don't miss the Proms | Auckland Entertainment | Events, Movies and TV Guide for Auckland

Playing under the baton of English conductor Anthony Inglis is the closest Simon Williams has come to performing at the original Last Night of the Proms in London's Royal Albert Hall.

"I have attended a number of Proms concerts, but have never had the opportunity to play in the actual programme,'' he says.

The French horn player, who's been with Auckland Philharmonia Orchestra full-time for eight years, says this year's Last Night of the Proms in Auckland will hold a special place in his heart because of the guest conductor, whose number of performances at the Royal Albert Hall is unmatched.

 "I'm really thrilled to be conducted by someone like him, and I'm sure it will add an extra something for the audience, too.''

In contrast to the usually dignified orchestral concerts, the final night of a proms series is traditionally a rowdy, unrestrained evening. The November 28 concert will feature popular masterpieces by Elgar, Britten and Walton plus less-classical, but equally popular music by Gilbert & Sullivan and Andrew Lloyd Webber.

Audiences are encouraged to sing along lustily with Land of Hope and Glory, Jerusalem and Rule, Britannia.

Williams says Proms has him feeling a little nostalgic.  "It has the ability to bring a great lump to the throat.''

Last Night of the Proms, Aotea Centre,
Nov 28, 7.30pm. Tickets: ph 357 3355 or see www.the-edge.co.nz