Conductor of the Concert and Big Bands, Ian Swatman, looks ahead to Friday…
Yes, it’s nearly here!! When we set off on the musical journey for 2012/13 back in the distant days of September, Friday 15th March seemed a long way away, but now a mere four days separate us from what, I’m sure, will be a memorable evening.
Variety is the spice, as they say, and Friday will present no less than 16 new additions to the Concert and Big Bands repertoire. Wednesday nights have been productive!
The Concert Band will meet the challenge of Paul Hart’s Cartoon head-on, alongside another performance of Platform One, once again in the presence of composer James Rae. Gospel tones will be present in a Canadian Brass arrangement of Amazing Grace, which gives various soloists in the band the chance to shine in a New Orleans street parade style! These works alongside, among others, a tremendous Sweeney Todd medley will complete the first half.
Music from jazz and Big band legends will fill the Colyer-Fergusson Hall in the second half. The swing of Basie, Satchmo, Ellington will be blasted from ensemble and soloists alike. Steph Richardson will sing like Ella and provide that much-anticipated touch of Bond!
I would just like to take this opportunity to thank all involved with these ensembles. The efforts of all enhances my musical life and I’m eternally grateful.
It’s Bond to Basie; it’s Friday night – don’t miss it!!
Ian Swatman
More details about the concert online here.
