WASO is fast becoming one of my favourite ways to spend a Friday night, it’s the best way to wind down after a long week. It’s a perfect distraction that allows you to socialise without having to talk too much. There’s something really lovely about letting your imagination run wild as you listen to an orchestral performance.
The night opened with Debussy’s Prélude à ‘L’après-midi d’un faune’ gently inviting the listener into its light and floral notes. Writing this now makes me realise I should have had some gin to go with this. I wonder which gin I should pair this with? I digress. Despite its reputation as an impressionist piece, I found myself pondering it in the context of romantic music and its exploration of the natural world. When considering the poem after which this piece was written that imagery feels even more appropriate. It’s somewhat reminiscent of Disney’s Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, whose protagonist’s plight somewhat resembles the travels of some dweller of the woods.
The perceptions of cinematic themes followed into the second composition of the evening, with my guest calling it “Star Wars-esque”. I haven’t seen enough of the film franchise to be able to recall where in the concerto this association could have been prompted. Either that or I was too engrossed by Karen Gomyo’s fervency on the violin. It was delightful to witness a musician as consumed by their playing as I was. And impressive given she had to execute the notes while I was free to sit back and indulge in my music induced intoxication.
The pacing of the night perfectly positioned Franck’s Symphony in D Minor as its ending. The dramatic and hearty work draws you in from the inside out. If you happen to be accompanied by someone on your wavelength you’re likely to find yourself exhaling in the same moments. It plays out like some kind of aural yoga where you might find yourself breathing in a collective pattern.
In a world of excessive imagery constantly demanding my visual attention, going into an orchestral performance gives a welcome break to my eyes and my cognition. The ebbs and flows of the symphonies welcome your wondering brain and dare not cast judgement on your silent wandering thoughts. What better way to end your week?