Its not the first time that I have heard one of Steve Reich's pieced played live. Though there is nothing quite like 18 Musicians.
With the full list of instruments that are played:
violin
cello
female voice
female voice
female voice
piano
piano
piano and maracas
marimba and maracas
marimba and xylophone
marimba and xylophone
marimba and xylophone
metallophone and piano
piano and marimba
marimba, xylophone, and piano
clarinet and bass clarinet
clarinet and bass clarinet
female voice and piano
His masterpiece was totally mesmerising with such high precision and total harmony, it was almost surreal to watch and joy to the ears.
Starting with one instrument, played by an individual artist, which in accordance set another off and with the primary instrument playing through out the full 45mins of performance. Absolutely astonishing for the artists, superbly dedication that was so very much admired.
Without a conductor, it was difficult to know who was leading, although a Xylophone seemed the core for certain pieces that were played throughout.
With the four female voices, initially, it was difficult to tell, what they were singing or where the sounds were coming from even. Gradually, it was understood that they are, in fact singing, mimicking sounds, of pitches that matched two of the instruments that were set side by side to the singers; Clarinets and Violins. This beautifully woven mixture of voices and instruments is such a delicate interplay that one compliments the other and at many times show'd how much control they had, as the manipulated the sounds constantly. Though what sounded so pleasing and looked so playful, was no doubt given a lot of focused attention to playing. How they managed to achieve to such perfection will always remain a puzzle to me.
Listening to this piece took me onto a journey of harmony, peace and tranquility. Listening to the beautiful sounds and watching the artists perform which for me put me into such a meditative state that I felt as if I was dreaming while awake, a complete Trance!
The most beautiful piece of music that I have heard ever. Steve Reich, a Genius he is.