Anna Lapwood: Reviving Classical Music with All-Night Prom at Royal Albert Hall

Anna Lapwood, a rising star in the classical music scene, is set to curate the first all-night Prom at the Royal Albert Hall in over four decades, which will run from 11 PM to 7 AM on August 8, 2025. This event marks a significant development in her burgeoning career and aims to rejuvenate the classical music genre by engaging a diverse audience through innovative performances.

Lapwood, who has garnered over 1 million followers on social media platforms such as Instagram and TikTok, is known for her eclectic musical style, blending classical compositions with contemporary music. Her recent album, "Firedove," features arrangements of film scores and modern minimalist pieces alongside traditional classical works. According to Lapwood, the all-night Prom will be an "explosion of energy," featuring a collaborative lineup that includes pianist Hayato Sumino and the Norwegian ensemble Barokksolistene, who are renowned for their unique nighttime performances.

The Royal Albert Hall's iconic Henry Willis organ, with its 10,000 pipes, will serve as the centerpiece of the event. "I hope that no one will be asleep!" exclaimed Lapwood, emphasizing her intention to keep the audience engaged throughout the night with an interactive atmosphere, including rest areas and snacks to ensure attendees remain alert and entertained.

Historically, the Proms have been a staple in London's cultural landscape, providing a platform for both classical and contemporary music. The last all-night Prom was held in 1984, making this revival particularly significant. Lapwood's initiative reflects a broader trend within the classical music community to attract younger audiences and diversify the genre's appeal. According to Dr. Richard Smith, a musicologist at the University of Cambridge, "Lapwood's approach to integrating various musical styles could bridge the gap between traditional classical music and modern genres, making it more accessible to a wider audience."

Lapwood's musical journey began at Pembroke College, Cambridge, where she became the youngest director of music at an Oxbridge college at just 21 years old. Despite her success, she recently made the difficult decision to step down from her position to focus on her performance career and new role as associate director at the Royal Albert Hall. This decision, as she described, was challenging due to the demands of balancing administrative duties with her artistic ambitions.

Her rise to fame has been punctuated by numerous high-profile performances and collaborations, including an impromptu organ lesson with actor Tom Cruise and a viral performance with the electronic music group Bonobo. These experiences highlight Lapwood's ability to connect with both classical and popular music audiences, a skill she considers essential for contemporary musicians.

Looking ahead, Lapwood's future is filled with exciting prospects, including a recital at the Walt Disney Concert Hall in Los Angeles and a collaboration with Jonny Greenwood in Manchester. "I want to encourage flexibility in programming," she stated, emphasizing the importance of allowing artists to explore their current passions in music. This philosophy is not just about performance; it also extends to her vision for the future of classical music, where diverse influences and inclusivity play a crucial role.

As Lapwood prepares for the all-night Prom, her commitment to revitalizing classical music not only showcases her talent but also signals a potential shift in how the genre is perceived and experienced in the modern era. The upcoming event promises to be a transformative experience for both performers and audiences, reinforcing the idea that classical music can thrive in contemporary cultural contexts.