|
katharismós
wennaaa.bs
|
|
Mahler 2
Sunday, August 19, 2018
The performance for Mahler 2 just ended a few hours ago. How did it go? It was AMAZING. This performance is one of those that you'll leave the concert hall not the same person as you entered. It's hard to put into words, all I can say is that this performance in particular was such a profound experience for me. The whole piece is about 'The Resurrection' - what happens after life and death? Is there eternal life after death? There's a total of five movements in this piece. The first movement starts off in a dark, rather jerky and slightly eerie feeling - the musical interpretation of death. Then it progresses on to a folk tune and slightly peppy mood before going back down again. And at the end, the glorious and majestic sound of resurrection and how death has been conquered! Side note: If you want to learn about Mahler 2 and how the events unfold, the video below is super interesting and informative. These few years I was like, nah classical music is not relevant today. Contemporary music is what I should be going towards. But today, I've recaptured the beauty of classical music again. SO many moments I had goosebumps because of the sheer beauty of the music. As with Beethoven Symphony 9 two years ago, the chorus had to sit for an hour before it was our turn to sing. I thought I would be bored from the waiting, but nope. My mind and eyes were fixated on the conductor for the entire hour, especially his hands that had such authority and gusto in bringing out the dynamics of the orchestra. I really loved the string section, so so beautiful. Not to mention, the mezzo-soprano Caitlin Hulcup. Oh my word her voice was breathtaking. Her sound filled the whole hall with such power, clarity and a warmth to her tone. I was reminded why in the past I wanted to be a classical singer - because of voices like hers that are to die for. I honestly thought the mezzo-soprano soloist would be outshined by the soprano soloist, but her voice commanded the entire hall. Amazing. One moment that I'll never forget, is the part where the entire orchestra was rumbling (resembling the opening of the grave) for an entire 5-7s. I loved that Prof Chan let this moment sink in, and then BAM. Here we go, the resurrection from death to life - that was my favourite moment. The chorus then joins in with the orchestra and soloists as we celebrate the resurrection, ending the entire piece on a high. I hope I will never forget these moments. Simply life-changing. The music that was made today.. the passion and dedication behind all of these just made it so special. I guess there's still this part of me is able to appreciate classical music. I don't think my life was this impacted through contemporary music. Only classical music has this power, this very thing that resonates with you and shakes your core and entire being. It's very personal and I have to say that I do think it's relevant for everyone. Mahler wrote this in the 19th century and is still played today - Symphony No. 2 hailed as one of the top 5 classical pieces of today. 
A photo that a colleague of mine took in the Esplanade Concert Hall. So gorgeous, I love this!
There's something about the gathering of people who loves classical singing. The bonds forged, friendships made with like-minded people will be something I treasure so dearly. Met so many nice people from this project. I hope I'll get to sing with them again someday!
Mandatory after-concert photo with Maestro Mr Toh
Of course, ending this post to the man who's taught me so much about choral/classical singing, about life, about striving our best to perform the best piece of music for the audience, about the intrinsic rewards in each performance - thank you. I always say this and I'll say it again, what you've taught me over the years is so invaluable. No other teacher has taught me this profoundly. Till next time I perform under your guidance again, Mr Toh! Ah, what a day. My heart is so full. *EDIT: Straits Times did a write-up on our performance! What lovely comments they gave us - https://www.straitstimes.com/lifestyle/music-makers-steady-confident-sound Posted by wen xin at 1:52 AM
|