You’ll remember Conor spoke to Casper from Efterklang last week.
In that interview he wondered about the make-up of The Major Lift Orchestra, who accompany the band on their two Irish dates next weekend. Casper’s answer was a little vague, in that, you see, this is an orchestra that hasn’t actually been put together by the band. More news on this has just been forthcoming from another quarter, Cork Opera House.
“The Major Lift is an all-encompassing concept that Cork Opera House has big plans for. It’s about creative engagement with the community locally, nationally and internationally. Its first permutation is The Major Lift Orchestra, which is a professional orchestra that has been put together to present Efterklang’s forthcoming album Piramida for two exclusive Irish dates this September. The orchestra is made up of 24 players (including 2 vocalists Michelle O’Rourke and Laoise O’Hanlon) comprising of professional players led by Kenneth Rice, one of Ireland’s most versatile violin players, along with Cork Opera House musician in residence Kate Ellis on Cello.
Cork Opera House hopes to roll out many more Major Lift concepts in the future with the essence of each project being about reaching out, exploring potential and expanding creative worlds while at the same time providing many levels of engagement through collaboration on a local, national and international basis.”
Mmm, a concept eh? We like those. Especially when they’re backed up by a certain amount of ambition. Mary Hickson, the director of Cork Opera House, gave this comment.
“Cork Opera House is delighted to be bringing together such wonderful musicians for The Major Lift Orchestra and we are really looking forward to working with Efterklang again. Their performance with us during the Reich Effect Festival 2011 still stands out as one of the best performances we have had the pleasure to present at the Opera House and I have a feeling Piramida has the potential to top it!”
We’ve got the same feeling. So look at this footage, taken at Sydney Opera House, and have a think about next Saturday at THE Opera House.
Efterklang play Meeting House Square, Dublin, Fri Sept 14th, as part of the Absolut Fringe Festival, and Opera House, Cork Sat Sept 15th, with The Major Life Orchestra conducted by Matthew Coorey
