Classical Trumpeter Alison Balsom Retires After 2025 Proms Final Concert

Classical trumpeter Alison Balsom has announced her retirement from performing after one final concert at the Last Night of the Proms in 2025, where she will play the Hummel Trumpet Concerto in E-flat major. Balsom, who has been playing the trumpet for 40 years, described this performance as a fitting and final statement on her career and the instrument she has championed. She emphasized the unsustainable nature of the demanding touring schedule combined with family life, noting that the intensity required to perform at the highest level cannot be sustained long term. Married to filmmaker Sir Sam Mendes, Balsom cited the importance of spending more time with her family as a key reason for stepping back from the stage. She reflected on her career path with authenticity and passion, stating that she has reached the natural end of her journey as a trumpet soloist. The Last Night of the Proms 2025, airing on September 13, will mark her farewell, recapturing the inspiration she felt as a child watching that very concert on television.