Reviews

Being a Ravel fan, I was interested to review this intimate concert presented in a delightful setting with tables, chairs and flickering candles, subtle lighting along with views of bubbling wine glasses and plates of culinary delights.

It graciously set the mood for an afternoon of sophistication a la Francoise, celebrating the 150th anniversary of renowned French composer Maurice Ravel's birth along with various composers connected to his lifelong experiences and artistic growth, and all complete with an on-screen translation.

James O’Donnell, Conductor, Organist and Teacher, previously Organist and Master of the Choristers at Westminster Abbey and now Professor of Organ and Sacred Music at Yale University amongst other musical activities as an international performer was guest artist this last weekend performing a relatively unknown work with a fascinating history by Belgian composer Joseph Jongen along with Saint-Saens classic Organ Symphony. Unfortunately I missed the performance of Bach’s famous Toccato and Fugue in D minor as it was only included in the concert the following day.

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.

Musical Theatre is based on confabulations and conceits wrapped up in glamour, a good tune, snappy lyrics and elegant dances. The creators of The Forgotten Songbook have taken the challenge of inventing within this genre head on, and have created layers of narrative, snappy and soulful songs with lovely tunes and engaging choreography.