Paraorchestra

The Paraorchestra 360 events at the Southbank are a fantastic experience. Even though I have been in and around ensembles photographing them quite closely. There is something special about these events.

The Paraorchestra was formed by Charles Hazlewood to create an opportunity for disabled musicians to have better opportunities to perform in the arts. Their performances at the Southbank are 360 performances where musicians are spread around the Clore ballroom and you are free to walk around and experience the different dynamics. With this approach, every member of the orchestra is equally important and it is fascinating to experience. Even for somebody like me who’s photographed ensembles close up, I love the experience of being able to walk around each performer and to see their different approaches to how they play their instrument and interpret the music.

Tonight they played Górecki’s Symphony No.3, Symphony of Sorrowful Songs. A Classic FM favourite and I must admit, one of mine. Victoria Oruwari did a fantastic job of singing this amazing piece.

If you get a chance to experience one of these 360 events. They are something special.