Proms in the Park strikes the right chord with Hinckley park-goers

Mason Moore | Hinckley Reporter | 12 June 2023

CROWDS of classical music fans congregated in Hollycroft Park to enjoy a feast of well-known scores at the annual ‘Proms in the Park’ concert on Saturday night (10 June).

**Many park-goers enjoyed the free concert** (Image: Ted Cottrell)

They headed on down to the award-winning park to bask in the sunshine and enjoy the much-loved free event, which was organised by Hinckley and Bosworth Borough Council and Hinckley Round Table respectively.

It featured performances from the Royal Birmingham Conservatoire’s Wind Orchestra – an ensemble which is made up of more than 50 young talented musicians, who performed under the baton of acclaimed conductor David Gordon-Shute.

Some of the many well-known scores that they performed were from feature films, such as Star Wars: The Force Awakens, Lord of the Rings, and Saving Private Ryan.

There was even an arrangement specially for a wind band who performed a score from Peter Graham’s Metropolis, and British favourites by William Walton, Malcolm Arnold, and Henry Wood.

The night ended in true flag-waving style with Elgar’s “Pomp and Circumstance March No. 1”.

Hinckley-based gin distillery, Bond Street Distillery, provided an outdoor bar for adult visitors, and served up a range of other refreshments and ice cream. Local charity Hinckley Round Table held a raffle, to help fundraise for good local causes.

Council Leader for Hinckley and Bosworth Borough Council, Stuart Bray, said: “This year’s Proms in the Park came swiftly after the coronation of His Majesty King Charles III.

“It was another great opportunity to celebrate this momentous occasion in the country’s history. We welcomed David Gordon-Shute and the Royal Birmingham Conservatoire Wind Orchestra, and truly enjoyed a great evening.

“Everyone had a fabulous time, waving flags and enjoying the glorious sunshine and live music out in the beautiful setting of Hollycroft Park. It was wonderful to see so many smiling faces.

“My thanks to everyone involved in organising this event, to the performers, to the Friends of Hollycroft Park and to everyone who came along on Saturday night.”