Rule Britannia & Other Music from Last Night of the Proms

Immerse yourself in the grandeur and pageantry of the Last Night of the Proms with the Leeds Festival Chorus and the English Northern Philharmonia, conducted by Paul Daniel. This album, released on Naxos in 1998, captures the essence of British musical tradition with a selection of stirring and patriotic pieces that have become synonymous with this iconic event.

The album opens with William Walton's majestic "Crown Imperial," a coronation anthem that sets the tone for the proceedings. It's followed by Hubert Parry's "Jerusalem," a stirring choral piece that has become an unofficial national anthem. The heart of the album is Edward Elgar's "Enigma Variations," featuring the poignant "Nimrod" variation, a piece known for its deep emotional resonance.

The album also showcases Arthur Wood's "Fantasia on British Sea Songs," a lively suite that includes familiar tunes like "The Saucy Arethusa," "Tom Bowling," and "Rule Britannia!" Each piece is performed with the vigor and precision that the Leeds Festival Chorus is known for, accompanied by the rich, full sound of the English Northern Philharmonia.

The album concludes with a rousing performance of "Pomp and Circumstance Military Marches, Op. 39: No. 1 in D Major," a piece that never fails to bring the house down at the Last Night of the Proms. This album is a testament to the enduring power of these musical classics and the skill of the performers who bring them to life. Whether you're a seasoned concert-goer or a casual listener, this album offers a thrilling introduction to the musical spectacle that is the Last Night of the Proms.