Spanish National Orchestra Debuts at Proms

The Spanish National Orchestra made its highly anticipated Proms debut at the Royal Albert Hall this week, nearly 90 years after its founding. The performance was led by outgoing chief conductor David Afkham, who presented a program rich in Spanish national treasures. This debut marked a significant milestone for the orchestra, which has a history of acclaimed performances, including earning a Latin Grammy for best flamenco album in 2010 under Josep Pons.

Afkham's tenure with the orchestra has been characterized by a focus on Spanish repertoire, and this Proms concert continued that tradition. While the program featured well-known Spanish works, it notably omitted contemporary Spanish music. The concert concluded with an encore that included a symbolic gesture, with Afkham modeling a football scarf, adding a touch of national pride and celebration to the event.

The orchestra's performance under Afkham's direction was a culmination of his decade-long leadership. He is set to hand over the baton to Kent Nagano for the upcoming season, making this Proms debut a celebratory farewell. The event drew a full house at the Royal Albert Hall, underscoring the orchestra's established reputation and the significance of their first Proms appearance.