Philip Glass and his London visit

Having sadly missed Mr Glass on Friday at the Barbican Centre and with the realisation that tickets had sold out for his show the following day at the Union Chapel (note: great venue!), we were persistent in waiting in line for return tickets on that following day in the chilly evening (15/12/2012). Fortunately enough, we were approached on and sold tickets at face value by a humble and friendly man. YAY!

If you don't know of Philip Glass - you don't necessarily need to, but if you're into influential composers of the 20th century who form "minimalist" styles, then you jolly well should do!

The legend America composer was welcomed in London for two nights only in his 75th year of age, and it was pretty legendary to share this momentous occasion with him and his fellow collaborators.





I must admit I haven't heard too much of his music, besides his mixes with (the late) Ravi Shankar and some music for plenty of films he's been involved with. However, I'm open to all and was in store for some repetitive and trancey keyboard skills + flutes and saxophones + an occasional high pitched lady's voice. Highly noted songs played were 'Raising the Sail' - from The Truman Show, ‘The Grid’ from his film score for Koyaanisqatsi and returned at the finale to play 'Spaceship' from Einstein on the Beach. The mellow, ambient and repetitively played parts did accidentally send me to sleep at some points in the first half especially. I believe this may be due to the glass of wine I'd downed beforehand!

The hardest thing about the Union Chapel is being at the front of the queue for unreserved seating...the fact that you are to CHOOSE your own seating over one of the many pews! This is not for the indecisive. Who says front rows are always best? Maybe? Like going to a cinema - head tilted upwards? Strain? No thanks. Hence, after 10 minutes of decision making, we headed up to the next level for a full-frontal corner view and a cooler less-claustrophobic climate - plus were lucky to be facing Philip! Yippee.

I enjoy the fact that this man is ever so modest. He shyly spoke through the microphone keeping it short, simple and to the point, and frequently muttering. He also had sheets of music scattered by his feet and at one point was unable find his required sheet music. A true artist - love it!

Somewhat crazy and a tad psychedelic. Woah. Although the tunes he played were not completely suited to me usual likes...all in all, it was a grand show.


Privileged.


Thank you Glass and your gang x