Philharmonic at the Apple Store

Well, this is the first time I am not using a musical or similar quote before my writing, because today I’m writing about classical music and there are no words. D’oh!
Right, let me get to the story. A lovely friend in London sent us a link with information about a free Philharmonic Concert in Berlin at the Apple Store. The word free is always a massive temptation for us, so off we went to check it out.
To cut a long story short, renowned conductor and composer Esa-Pekka Salonen came to talk to the small audience about his new App ‘The Orchestra’. It looked pretty cool – you can see and hear what it is really like to sit behind the violins or drums (pretty awful actually…). You can learn more about the performers as well as the instruments. The App gives users a chance to get a 360 degree view of an orchestra, so if you are interested in this kind of thing, get the App! Or click here for more information in German.
The conductor spoke about the importance of technology in classical music. Normally, people go to listen to classical performances because they are traditional. However, Mr Salonen was saying how classical music is dangerously distancing itself from modern times. In fact, technology should be embraced. Using technology is better for the environment and faster downloading of music can only be a good thing, as performers will have more time to practice. However he couldn’t imagine iPads being used during a performance instead of sheet music, but perhaps this is the way forward.
The MC of the talk was pretty annoying, as she kept trying to worm her way into the conversation when everyone had obviously come to listen to the composer. On a brighter note, the audience had some fun questions – apparently being a conductor is fun PLUS you get the best seat in the house… Something to keep in mind for a future job maybe?
Once the talk was finished, the Philharmonic Orchestra came out and played some music for us. Mr Salonen had composed some music for the violin – not my favourite instrument really – and Jason and I didn’t really like it. I have to admit, it reminded me of the famous Psycho shower scene… but otherwise the music with all the performers together was very enjoyable. A bit of a different way to spend an evening, but very pleasant none-the-less.