Last Thursday (26th September) I dusted off a frock and put my fancy face on to attend the 2024-25 season opener of the BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra at Glasgow City Halls.
The orchestra: something new
We took our seats and settled in to the relaxed vibe of the room, eager to experience something new. Composer Helen Grime kicked off the event with work derived from Zoe Gilbert’s novel, Folk, stories taken from Scots, Irish and Manx folklore. The piece gave spotlight to soprano Claire Booth who’s characterisation was engaging and vibrant. The orchestration was challenging but mesmerising in its shapes and textures. If you’re into your abstract electronica then it might be one for you to check out. Following a wee wine break we were back for the main event, Mahler’s Fifth Symphony.
Mahler’s Fifth Symphony
Now, I don’t use the word agog lightly, or ever, but it’s the only way to describe myself during this to be honest. The fifth Symphony is a transformative work, oscillating myriad emotional landscapes; one moment you languish in a dream-like state, aware of the orchestra in the periphery of your mind only, and then you find yourself amidst an opulence of sound so strong you can feel it in your eyeballs.
Palm-reddening
The musicians, expertly conducted by Ryan Wigglesworth, deserved the rapturous and palm-reddening applause given by the audience. So that was my experience; It was a bucket list outing and very memorable. To find out if it’s your jam, you’ll need to get yourself along, and with a program so varied and accessible, why wouldn’t ye?
Featured Photo Credit:BBC/Martin Shields.