York Proms hailed success as crowd fills Museum Gardens

A sold-out crowd filled Museum Gardens on Sunday (July 28) to listen to the orchestra, conducted by Ben Crick.

They waved flags as music played from classical greats, famous operas and films which could be heard across York.   

A firework display lit up the skies afterwards, bringing the night to a close.

York Proms attendees dock Union Jack outfits for the event (Image: York Proms)

Organiser Rebecca Newman said she was “absolutely thrilled” with the success of this year’s York Proms – particularly as heavy rain hit last year’s event, leading to fears that it wouldn’t be able to go ahead.

“Another sell-out crowd and this time the weather was very kind to us,” Rebecca said. “It was a balmy summer evening and with the date being the latest summer date we've ever had, the night fell earlier and the stage lights, big screen and fireworks really came into their own. 

Visitors get into the spirit at this year's York Proms (Image: York Proms)

“Everyone pulled together to make it happen and I was humble by their efforts.”

Rebecca praised those who came to the event, saying: “We had no security issues and the gate teams managed get everyone who had queued into the gardens within an hour and a quarter of the gates opening, which is an incredible result for so many people.

Attendees wave flags at this year's York Proms (Image: York Proms)

“We have a great crowd who are always in good spirits but patient and respectful of the gardens and the staff, so that helps a lot.”

Tenor Joshua Baxter and soprano Jane Burnell performed with the opera at Museum Gardens.

The orchestra on stage at this year's York Proms in Museum Gardens (Image: York Proms)

They are both currently performing with Buxton Opera.

Joshua, who is in his early 30s, studied at the Royal Academy of Music and performs across the UK and Europe.

Visitors enjoy the sun at the York Proms (Image: York Proms)

Jane, who studied at Leeds College of Music and then the Royal Northern College of Music, is in her mid-20s and has made her professional debut this year.

Rebecca said she is “definitely one to watch”.

People enjoyed picnics and on-site catering at the event, which included drinks supplied by Acaster Malbis brewery Ainsty Ales.

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Rebecca said she aims to use local suppliers whenever possible.

“I take every opportunity to source suppliers from York and the surrounding area wherever possible and champion the amazing businesses we have in our area,” she explained.

To coincide with the showcase, this month the York Proms released a podcast to share how the community has expanded since the first event in 2017.

Rebecca hopes to grow this podcast further.

“There is so much to the York Proms that we can celebrate, aside from the music, including the history of the gardens and the people who make it possible," she said.

For more information about York Proms, visit the event’s website: www.yorkproms.com