Listen to This

Listen to This is a program designed to assist audiences to “understand, explore, and listen to orchestral music like never before”. What a marvellous opportunity! Hearing music played by some of our most accomplished musicians and having it conducted and explained by one of our busiest, and much-loved conductors and music educators.

Following in the tradition of the late Richard Gill, these special programs give educational insights into the language of the music and the individual contributions of all the parts of the orchestra. For those who know their music – or those who love it and want to learn more – it is a wonderful opportunity to hear and see the orchestra in a more relaxed environment. And to have the music explained by those who know it best.

In this performance, Benjamin Northey and the Sydney Symphony Orchestra introduced the audience to the music of Jean Sibelius through his very moving patriotic symphony Finlandia.

Northey meets the audience with the same energy and enthusiasm with which he conducts. His love of the music is obvious. He explains it expressively, describing the various motifs in each section of the symphony and the way they are played by each section of the orchestra.

His explanations are clear, his manner entertaining – and his use of humour charming.

The members of the orchestra seem just as enthusiastic about sharing their contribution to the educational process. They react to his humour, the clarity of his explanations, his obvious love of sharing their work. It is interesting to see the orchestra is this more relaxed environment, and to have the opportunity to hear and appreciate the contribution of each section of the orchestra separately.

The program too, is excellent, especially, for those who are new to orchestral music. Not only does it provide information about the composer and the music, there are images of the each of the instruments, a short but detailed explanation of how they are constructed, their sound, and their contribution to the orchestra. As well there is a diagram of their placement in the orchestra. What a great teaching tool – for the young … and not so young!

Then there is the experience of hearing the music with a greater understanding of the intricacies of the composition, the genius of the composer to be able say through music so much and so deeply, the clever coming together of the parts of the orchestra – and the passion of the conductor.

The city Recital Hall is an exellent venue for a musical experience such as this. It is intimate, and the acoustics are exceptional. The enthusiastic listening and appreciative response of the very large audience indicate that special programs such as these are an important part of the SSO’s season.

Carol Wimmer

Images Courtesy of Sydney Symphony Orchestra