Glissando

What a treat! It is pretty wonderful to hear harp music as a live experience as it is such a beautiful and resonant instrument. Getting to see eight playing at the same time was something else entirely. The set was rich and varied, French carols next to Scottish folk pieces and original composition. The pinnacle for me was an arrangement of Debussy’s ‘La Cathedrale Engloutie’ for all eight harpists. It was so evocative I could hear the bells peeling and knelling. Extraordinary! A well balanced gaggle of accomplished performers whose union and cohesion as a group ensemble was tangible. They listen to, respect and hold space for each other as each soloists steps forward with their own harp voice in the midst of group dynamics. Very powerful magic indeed.

Ropetackle Centre, 26 November 2017
Rating:
Enna Andrews