St George's Hall, Bradford
It's the second out of three Proms today. I should be cleaning my house up, but it will have to wait otherwise I am going to fall behind with the Proms and I won't be able to catch up again. [Only days left now until I get my regular routine back - keep going!]
This afternoon's Prom comes from St George's Hall in Bradford. I have never known the acquaintance of this city, and so it is news to me that there is another St George's Hall, separate to the one that so grandly defines the city of Liverpool.
What does a middle-class white man from the Wirral know about African music? Not a lot to be honest, and it is difficult to provide commentary without blushing and/or coming across as a hollow virtue-signaller.
The African Symphony is completely unlike any other symphony I have yet heard from a European orchestra. The instrumentation is indeed 'exotic' by comparison, but here's the thing: it's a welcome break. The music is full of joy, and with a persistent beat. It's celebratory. The whole show is happy, with a party atmosphere. Angélique Kidjo shares my never-been-to-Bradford status (until today for her, of course), and she vows to come back to visit at leisure. It's a place I know very little about, so I must also add it to my list.
We are introduced to Corinne Bailey Rae, and the music up-notches! There is some beautiful fingerpicked acoustic guitar - not sure if that is her playing?!
By saying that there is a movement that reminds me of Bamboléo by The Gypsy Kings, I am no doubt cross-linking two disciplines of music in error - but that's what it sounds like.
The momentum does not drop - it's upbeat throughout, and if anything only crescendos as the programme goes on. Audience participation begins, probably involuntarily - who could not be moved to dance by this incredible music?!
The presenter Linton Stephens calls it a 'roof raising performance,' and I couldn't have put it better myself.
Image: Pixabay.com
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