The Prom on The Close has firmly established itself in the Bristol social calendar and is regarded as one of the leading outdoor classical concerts in the South West.

This year's concert on Saturday July 4 will feature soprano Natasha Marsh and tenor Nicky Spence, supported by The Emerald Ensemble and complemented by the Clifton College choir and musicians.

Prom on The Close, supported by the Western Daily Press and the Bristol Evening Post, has a fantastic reputation as Bristol's finest summer party, a fantastic concert set against the stunning backdrop of Clifton College.

Marsh is one of the UK's most exciting opera singers and is a highly respected soprano within the opera world. Her debut album 'Amour' hit the top of the classic charts within its first week of release.

Spence is a highly accomplished tenor who is slowly taking the classical music world by storm. He won the coveted Katherine Ferrier Singers Prize at the age of just 18 and has toured with the likes of Lesley Garrett, Katherine Jenkins and Bryn Terfel.

To celebrate its centenary this year, the University of Bristol is also linking up with Prom on The Close, with alumni, staff and students able to enjoy the summer party and concert to mark the milestone year.

There will be a marquee exclusively for Bristol alumni, with the opportunity to enjoy a drink or picnic with your fellow alumni, friends and family.

Tania Jane Rawlinson, the university's director of campaigns and alumni relations, said: "The Prom on The Close is one of the highlights of the University's centenary alumni weekend, the biggest event for former students the university has ever hosted.

"Alumni from all parts of the world are preparing for a weekend of renewing friendships, and re-discovering the familiar and brand new faces of the University and the city of Bristol. We are very excited about joining forces with Clifton College for the Prom on the Close and hope many Bristolians will celebrate with us."

The Emerald Ensemble will be performing many popular classics from the big screen, and conductor Jae Alexander is making a welcome return to The Prom on The Close.

The Emerald Ensemble is Bristol's professional chamber orchestra, a lively and dynamic ensemble which was formed in 1994 by Roger Huckle. It is the largest independent classical music organisation based in the South West and has an extensive national concert and education programme.

Clifton College has a worldwide reputation for excellence in music and its thriving music department, under the leadership of Director, James Hills, is continuing to support and encourage some of the most promising performers of the future.

Whether you are looking to enjoy luxury hospitality or a picnic on the close with friends and family, The Prom on The Close provides a magical and unforgettable atmosphere. As the sun sets behind the beautiful buildings, relax to the sound of wonderful music culminating in a grand finale in typical Prom tradition.

Prom on The Close takes place on Saturday July 4. Gates open at 4.30pm; the concert starts at 7.30pm. Tickets start from £20. Visit www.promontheclose.com for further details. Booking line 0870 7740577.

Jacqueline Dolan, Bristol Evening Post

2008 event will take place on Saturday 5th July. Line-up to be announced shortly! Please visit www.promontheclose.com for further details.

Here are the reviews from our most recent concerts...

2007

The internationally-acclaimed tenor, Russell Watson, starred in 2007. He was supported by the fabulous All Angels and the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, conducted by Nick Davies. (More...)

2006

Lesley Garrett, the UK´s best-loved opera singer, was the star of the 2006 Prom on The Close accompanied by the internationally-acclaimed Royal Philharmonic Orchestra conducted by Philip Ellis.

"Lesley Garrett's warm personality and fantastic voice helped make the 2006 Prom on The Close the brightest and best yet." (More...)

Concert-goer Adam Anderson, 28, a carpenter from Weston-super-Mare:

Julian Telling, Chairman of the Prom: