The BBC Philharmonic delivered a striking performance of Mahler’s Symphony No. 7 (1905) at Prom number 5, under conductor John Storgårds. Known as one of Mahler’s more elusive works, the symphony’s shifting moods and contrasting textures were handled with clarity and conviction. Storgårds draws some coherence from the often fragmented structure, bringing out both the nightmarish and jubilant elements with decent pacing and then vibrant orchestral colour.

Mahler’s Seventh is sometimes called “The Song of the Night” (although not by Mahler himself); and it was in the two atmospheric ‘Nachtmusik’ movements that the whole ensemble particularly shone. Solo contributions from horns and guitar were beautifully given, the lavish Finale also thrillingly executed.

The first half of the evening featured the world premiere of Monologues for the Curious (2025), a BBC new commission by British composer Tom Coult. Setting eerie fragments of M.R. James to music, the piece balances some playfulness with dread. Tenor Allan Clayton delivered a gripping performance, capturing the piece’s theatrical tone and emotional subtlety — although perhaps not so much when he was called upon to play the harmonica(!). Coult’s inventive orchestration and sly humour proves both accessible and intriguing.

This was a compelling and intelligent programme. Storgårds and the BBC Philharmonic offered both an exciting new commission and a masterful account of a misunderstood Mahler symphony.

Tickets for all 72 Proms are available from just £8 on the Royal Albert Hall’s BBC Proms 2025 website.