Last Night of The Proms coming to Barnstaple

Barnstaple is set to come alive with the sounds of classical music and patriotic fervor as the North Devon Sinfonia brings the much-loved Last Night of the Proms to the historic Barnstaple Pannier Market on Friday, 20 September at 7pm. 

The concert, which marks the start of the town’s carnival weekend, promises to be a lively and uplifting event that will fill the hearts of residents and visitors alike.

The evening's program is designed to celebrate both local heritage and national pride. 

The first half of the concert will feature a special tribute to local composer Nigel Brooks, with the orchestra performing his Barnstaple Fair Suite in honour of the annual Barnstaple Fair, which will be in full swing during the week. 

The suite is a musical homage to the town’s rich cultural history, and its performance is sure to be a highlight of the evening.

The second half of the event will offer an array of musical delights, including stirring renditions of iconic works such as Jerusalem and God Save the King, ensuring the audience leaves feeling uplifted and ready for the carnival weekend.

Programme Highlights:

• Nigel Brooks – Barnstaple Fair Suite
• Elgar – Nimrod (from Enigma Variations), Pomp & Circumstance March No.1
• Vaughan Williams – Folk Song Suite
• Sibelius – Finlandia
• Gershwin – Summertime, I Got Rhythm
• Jerome Kern – Can’t Help Lovin’ Dat Man

Lee Baxendale, Cultural Producer, said: “We're thrilled to be working with North Devon Sinfonia to bring the Last Night of the Proms to Barnstaple, offering an evening of music that celebrates both local and community spirit. This event is a wonderful way to kick off the Carnival weekend, and we can't wait to see the town come alive with joy and excitement!”

Tickets for the concert are priced from just £7 and can be purchased online. 

As the Pannier Market is an unheated venue, attendees are encouraged to dress warmly to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable evening.

This event is made possible through the support of Flourishing Barnstaple, a North Devon Council initiative funded by the Government’s Cultural Development Fund and administered by Arts Council England.

In addition to the concert, the weekend will continue with a full slate of carnival activities. 

On Saturday, 21 September, the town will host a range of family-friendly events, culminating in the Barnstaple Carnival Parade at 6pm, followed by a spectacular fireworks display to close the celebrations.