Castle Howard Announce Spitfire Fly Over for Proms 2017

The evocative sound of the last remaining Spitfire with its original wartime service engine will open Castle Howard’s Proms 2017 in patriotic style on Saturday 19 August when it flies over the classical music fans, adding further pageantry to the traditional al fresco summer concert.

The announcement made by Castle Howard and LPH Concerts today reveals that Supermarine Spitfire MK XI serial number PL 965 – the only Spitfire in the world flying on her original wartime service engine and presented in her original RAF 16 Squadron colours as she served in 1944/1945 – will fly over the gathered audiences as they picnic on the lawns. The spectacle will create a highly anticipated opening to the concert by Classical Brit award winners Blake, best-selling classical soprano Joanna Forest and the renowned London Gala Orchestra.

“This year’s Proms gets right back to what people love the most about summer concerts – flag-waving and feel-good fun at North Yorkshire’s social event of the season,” comments marketing manager, Rachel Underwood. “We’re delighted to welcome such talented performers, and having a fly-past by the Spitfire is just the perfect cherry on this Great British cake!”

The Spitfire will be piloted by Peter Teichman who comments, “I am very excited to fly our wonderful Spitfire for Castle Howard’s audience, at what is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful historic houses in the UK. It will be a fabulous night of music and nostalgia.”

Taking to the stage, Classical Brit award winners Blake are renowned for performing classical and pop songs in stunning harmony vocal arrangements. Blake comprises three young men who enthrall fans the world over with their amazing singing, hit albums and charismatic stage presence. With over a million albums sold, No. 1 hits in ten countries and nearly 150 TV appearances around the globe, Blake continue to build their reputation as one of today’s most eclectic and exciting classical ‘crossover’ groups.

Soprano Joanna Forest’s debut album ‘Stars Are Rising’ went straight to number one in the classical charts when it was released earlier this year. Joanna is one of the most exciting new British sopranos in the UK right now.

The renowned London Gala Orchestra also join the line up and will be playing popular classics, songs from musicals and Proms favourites including Jerusalem, Rule Britannia and Pomp & Circumstance No1, all of which will create a magical evening of music.

Gates open at 6pm with the main programme starting at 7.30pm.

Tickets are on sale now at an early bird rate and can be purchased online at www.castlehoward.co.uk

Ticket Details:

Adults: £32.50*

Children: £5.00*

Castle Howard members save 10%

Under 5s go free

*Subject to booking fees

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