Matt Roberts (cond); Phil Meadows (alt/sop/comp); Percy Pursglove (tpt/flug); Flo Moore (bs); Zoe Gilby (voice); Liam Noble (pno); Tim Giles (dms) + Royal Northern Sinfonia + Jambone.
(Review by Lance)
The furniture removers had been on stage, shifting piano, drums, music stands, mics and all the usual paraphernalia needed to accommodate a symphony orchestra, a big band, and soloists.
This was the north-east premiere of Phil Meadows new suite, Lifecycles.
The 37 strong Sinfonia occupied the centre ground with Jambone to their rear and the three principals out front.
So many changes of mood and tempo as befits the title - think of The Seven Ages of Man from As You Like It.
I learned several things from this set. Zoe Gilby is more than 'just a jazz singer'. In what must surely have been one of the most demanding gigs of her career, she came through with flying colours. At times, almost a coloratura delivery - and didn't she look as good as she sounded?
I overheard her ma saying that she was proud of her - we all were Hils!
Percy Pursglove is one helluva trumpet player - apart from the chorus where it sounded like he was regurgitating - he ranks alongside, and above, most of his contemporaries!
Meadows too is the business both as a composer and saxman. Add Noble, Moore, and Giles who need no introductions - their credentials are sound - made this one memorable afternoon. Oh and let's not forget harpist Olivia Jageurs - impressive.
Trumpet player Matt Roberts (he's from Darlington and they have a festival next weekend) conducted, successfully bringing all the elements together. An amazing sight to see the whole Sinfonia, seemingly, jamming away freestyle behind the soloists. Bradley Creswick (first violin) was having a ball - but then - weren't we all?
Lance.
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