The BBC Proms can today reveal the full programme for The Earth Prom, featuring a host of music that has provided the dramatic and enthralling audio backdrop for the nation’s favourite wildlife documentaries, alongside impressive new offerings.

Music created for the BBC Studios National History Unit’s flagship documentaries will be performed by the BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra, as well as the premiere of a work devised and arranged by Iain Farrington especially for the BBC Proms, with the music of multi-Academy Award winning composer Hans Zimmer / Bleeding Fingers.

The music will be accompanied by stunning visuals from programmes such as Blue Planet I & II, Life Story, Africa, Life of Mammals, Planet Earth I & II, Seven Worlds One Planet and Wonders of the Monsoon. Springwatch presenters Chris Packham and Megan McCubbin will take to the stage in between each piece to talk the audience through the wonders of the natural world that appear onscreen, as well as introducing a montage to celebrate Sir David Attenborough.  

Megan McCubbin said: “The proms is a celebration of classical music like no other. Pairing stunning pictures to the iconic soundtracks from some of the largest natural history documentaries, it’ll be a night to remember and I cannot wait to be a part of it.”

The Prom, which will take place on Saturday 27^th August at the Royal Albert Hall, is being led by conductor Ben Palmer, and is a celebration of the BBC Studios’ world-famous Natural History Unit and the continued impact that the BBC has on our audience’s understanding of our planet.

The BBC and BBC Studios Natural History Unit have continued to develop, influence, expand and lead in their respective fields across the past century and, in the BBC’s centenary year, are looking forward to what the next 100 years holds.

The theme of the first half of the Prom is a look back at the work of the NHU over the years and includes works from composers such as Murray Gold, George Fenton, Ben Salisbury, Barnaby Edwards, Nitin Sawhney and Sarah Class.

The second half will focus on the Earth Symphony – Iain Farrington’s arrangement of Hans Zimmer / Bleeding Fingers music into a five-part spectacular made up of: Earth: The Beasts of the Land; Air: Those that Fly; Spirit: The Joy of Life; Water: The Mighty Ocean; Fire: Danger and Hope.

Hans Zimmer, who will be attending the Prom, said: “I’m delighted to be back at the BBC Proms this year, especially for one with themes so close to my heart. This Prom is a clear reminder that we need to speak up for the planet, whilst also celebrating the work done by so many to share the wonders of our world through audio and visual means.”

Rosemary Edwards, Executive Producer, BBC Studios’ Natural History Unit, said: “The Proms is the biggest classical music festival in the world, with an exceptional reputation that demonstrates the BBC at its very best. It was, therefore a privilege to collaborate on the Earth Prom. The BBC Studios Natural History Unit is known across the globe for its stunning, landmark films, celebrating the precious wildlife that share our planet. To combine those images with the music of many celebrated composers, who have worked on our natural history series over the year has been a  very exciting opportunity.”

David Pickard, Director, BBC Proms, said: “I am so pleased that we are able to celebrate the important role that music plays within these wildlife documentaries, reflecting and enhancing the astonishing film footage. The BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra under the guidance of Ben Palmer are sure to introduce new audiences to the wonders of live orchestral music and create an unforgettable experience for all.”

This concert will be live on BBC Radio 3 and recorded for broadcast on BBC Two on Monday 29 August.

Full details available on our website here.