NZSO to play music by Radiohead guitarist in unique concert

NZSO to play music by Radiohead guitarist in unique concert series

The New Zealand Symphony Orchestra will perform music by Radiohead lead guitarist Jonny Greenwood in the second of its hit Shed Series of concerts in Wellington on 1 June.

The concert series features timeless classics and contemporary works performed in the relaxed setting of Shed 6 on Wellington’s waterfront. The first concert in April, featuring works by Frank Zappa, sold out.

Each performance is designed so audiences, including those new to the NZSO, can enjoy the Orchestra outside a traditional concert hall. Flexible seating means audience members can sit, stand or move around Shed 6 and purchase drinks at any time while the Orchestra performs.

“As a bit of an experiment, it was awesome to see the first Shed Series concert work, and also to become more than we had imagined,” says conductor Hamish McKeich.

“The second concert is another chance to hear the NZSO, the country’s flagship orchestra, up close and informal with some really great music that should keep you on your toes.”

The 1 June concert titled Juxtaposition features Hadyn’s powerful Symphony No. 60 and works by some of the most exciting composers alive today.

Along with being Radiohead’s lead guitarist and keyboardist, Greenwood is a sought-after composer for film. The NZSO will perform his Suite from the film There Will Be Blood.

Estonian Arvo Pärt is one of the most performed living classical composers in the world. Along with concerts and recordings, his music is often used in film and television. His haunting Fratres, which also featured in There Will Be Blood, will be performed by the NZSO.

Michael Norris is an award-winning New Zealand composer, whose works have been performed by orchestras and ensembles in New Zealand and overseas, including ensemble Stroma, which he co-founded. A suite of real-time audio effects Norris created have been used by some of the world’s top recording artists, including Brian Eno.

The NZSO will perform Norris’ 2008 work Heart Across the Night, inspired by the Thelonious Monk jazz classic Straight, No Chaser.

The Orchestra will also perform a surprise work that will link to the next concert in the Shed Series.
ENDS

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