Legendary conductor John Wilson and his orchestral supergroup, the Sinfonia of London, continue the 150th anniversary celebrations of Rachmaninov. His much-loved Second Piano Concerto is played by the brilliant incoming BBC New Generation Artist Alim Beisembayev. The concert showcases three composers’ ability to transform their pain and anguish into captivating masterpieces. The Rachmaninov takes centre stage, with its hauntingly beautiful melodies written as he overcame his depression, resulting in one of the most beloved pieces of classical music of all time. In the second half, we enter the emotional world of William Walton’s First Symphony, an intense work charting a tumultuous love affair. And Lili Boulanger was close to death when she wrote her enchanting D’un Matin de Printemps, which nevertheless brings an optimistic spring morning feel to get things underway at this Prom. Petroc Trelawny presents with special guests Wayne Marshall and Hannah Catherine Jones.