Spanish National Orchestra Makes Historic Proms Debut with David 2026

The Spanish National Orchestra made a long-awaited Proms debut at the Royal Albert Hall under chief conductor David Afkham, delivering a program rich in Spanish repertoire that celebrated their nearly 90-year legacy. The concert marked both a beginning and an end, as Afkham prepares to hand over the baton to Kent Nagano next season.

The Historic Proms Debut

Nearly nine decades after their founding, the Spanish National Orchestra finally performed at the BBC Proms, a milestone that had been eagerly anticipated by classical music enthusiasts. The packed Royal Albert Hall welcomed the ensemble with warmth, and the orchestra responded with a program heavy on national treasures. David Afkham, who has led the orchestra for over a decade, brought out the best in Spanish music, building on a legacy that earned the orchestra a Latin Grammy for Best Flamenco Album under Josep Pons in 2010.

A Program of Spanish Treasures

The evening opened with Ravel's Alborada del gracioso, its wriggling seguidilla immediately showcasing the orchestra's rhythmic precision. The solo bassoon captured the mournful jester's character with poignant clarity. Following that, De Falla's Fantasia baetica was heard for the first time at the Proms, performed in Francisco Coll's colorful 2022 orchestration. Both pieces originated as solo piano works, but in these comfortable, mid-paced accounts, virtuosity became something softer and more relaxed.

Guitarist Rafael Aguirre, winner of an astonishing 13 first prizes at international competitions, delivered a lean-back account of Rodrigo's Concierto de Aranjuez. His playing was good-natured and folk-direct in the framing outer movements, while he found a different color for the wistful slow movement. His cadenza beckoned the audience in rather than reaching out, creating an intimate moment. Afkham kept the orchestra on a tight rein, sensitive to his soloist, though the effect was oddly muted at times.

Key Works Performed

Takeaways from the Concert

• The Spanish National Orchestra's Proms debut was a historic event, nearly 90 years in the making.
• David Afkham's tenure as chief conductor ended on a high note, with a program that played to the orchestra's strengths in Spanish repertoire.
• Rafael Aguirre's performance of Rodrigo's Concierto de Aranjuez was a highlight, showcasing his sensitivity and technical mastery.
• The concert notably lacked contemporary Spanish music, focusing instead on iconic works from the early 20th century.

FAQ

The concert concluded with Ravel's Boléro, bringing the evening full circle. Afkham, sporting a football scarf during the encore, added a touch of humor to the celebrations. For classical music fans, this Proms debut was a momentous occasion that showcased the depth and passion of Spanish music. As the orchestra looks ahead to a new era under Kent Nagano, this performance will be remembered as a fitting tribute to their enduring legacy.