The Phoenix Symphony will welcome visionary conductor Steve Hackman and perform his orchestral synthesis “Brahms vs. Radiohead” on March 5 at ASU Gammage Auditorium.
The performance is a mashup of Radiohead’s beloved album OK Computer and Brahms’ First Symphony. The two combined masterpieces create an unforgettable — and somewhat controversial — orchestral synthesis, with Hackman conducting The Phoenix Symphony accompanied by three pop vocalists.
The piece offers a re-imagined experience of each work through the lens of the other, and explores the explosive tension they have in common. Brahms’ 19th-century orchestral sound palette is used throughout, but woven in, superimposed, and inserted are the melodies and music of Radiohead.
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At times one hears the melodies and words of Radiohead suspended over Brahms’ original music; at times the orchestra playing the music of Radiohead but filtered through the counterpoint and harmonies of Brahms. Every combination of synthesis is explored, as the music moves from one to the other so seamlessly that many times the audience is left wondering which is which, and how the combination was even possible.
Tickets are on sale now at www.asugammage.com or by calling 480.965.3434.
Hackman is a composer, conductor, producer, DJ, arranger, songwriter, singer, and pianist. He uses those wide-ranging abilities to create hybrid compositions that blur the lines between high and pop art.
The 75th Anniversary includes a robust mix of classics, pops and special performances, with some truly innovative and attention-grabbing programs scheduled. The entire season schedule can be viewed at www.phoenixsymphony.org.
Season ticket packages and single ticket sales are now available to the general public.
All audience members attending The Phoenix Symphony’s concerts will be required to show either a negative Covid-19 test taken within 72 hours (3 days) of the performance OR proof of vaccination against COVID-19 with a vaccine authorized by the Centers for Disease Control PLUS a photo ID.In addition, all guests attending Symphony Hall, ASU Gammage and Orpheum performances must maintain appropriate face coverings in accordance with current CDC guidelines except when eating or drinking.
The Phoenix Symphony was founded in 1947, and has grown over the years to become one of the state’s largest performing arts organizations. Its 75th Anniversary season comes on the heels of the cancellation of the 2020-21 season, and provides a unique opportunity to not only celebrate the organization’s history, but to celebrate its return as well.
Founded in 1947 as a part-time orchestra in Phoenix, a city of less than 100,000 people, and run by passionate volunteers, The Phoenix Symphony has grown alongside the capital city to become Arizona’s only full time orchestra. In addition to performing traditional and modern repertoire in the fall and spring in Symphony Hall, year round our world class musicians are actively engaged in the community. Through generous foundation, corporation, and individual support, TPS is strengthened by collaborating with the best guest conductors and artists across the nation and internationally. The core mission of The Phoenix Symphony is to provide the joy of music as a catalyst for discovery, knowledge, compassion, and connection. Annually, our orchestra members empower more than 120,000 students through education and outreach partnerships and create opportunities for healing and deeper connection for tens of thousands of adults experiencing homelessness, in Alzheimer’s care facilities, in hospitals, and in hospice. To learn more, visit phoenixsymphony.org
