Tonight Manchester's premier orchestra are performing a selection of works by the composer Philip Glass, including the UK debut of 'Ifè Songs'.
They start with 'Days And Nights In Rochina' which is gently moving with occasional injections of bombast, and gradually builds in volume and intensity. An orchestra is such an awesome sight live as you've always got something to look at. You can focus on one particular instrument (triangle man is my favourite) or you can find who has just made that sound or you can just watch the impressive sight of a legion of bows moving up an down in time on an army of violins or cellos.
Famed Beninese singer Angélique Kidjo enters the stage for the debut performance of 'Ifè Songs'. The first of these pieces is a dynamic, symphonic romp with her voice cutting through as a soaring instrument of defiance. The second song is gentler and more emotional. The third track is awesome, being sweeping and epic with some catchy vocal lines. The closing crescendo is incredible, with Angélique hitting an amazing final note.
Glass's 'Symphony No. 11' is stirring and probably the closest to his soundtrack work. The third movement is percussive and ominous. You could imagine all the movements in this piece soundtracking a creepy chase or an action setpiece in a movie.
Maybe it's the novelty of watching an orchestra live rather than a band but I thoroughly enjoyed myself.
The Halle Orchestra featuring Angelique Kidjo *****
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