John Malveaux: Angelique Kidjo & LA Phil Premiere Symphony No. 12 of Philip Glass

Angelique Kidjo and Philip Glass

John Malveaux of 

www.MusicUNTOLD.com 

writes:

1-13-2019 excited to attend LA Phil modern music concert to see long time friend, soprano Zanaida Robles, make her debut with the Los Angeles Philharmonic. Dr. Robles also sings with LA Master Chorale. The concert opened with composer Gabriella Smith Tumblebird Contrails. The pleasantly capturing single movement composition was inspired while sitting in the sand at the edge of the ocean, The second piece was John Adams Grand Pianola Music which included soprano Zanaida Robles with two other female voices singing wordless harmonies. I have not come to an opinion about the piece.

The second half was the world premiere of Philip Glass: Symphony No. 12 based on the music of David Bowie and Brian Eno featuring vocalist Angelique Kidjo. Although uplifting diversity and connecting genres, Kidjo's voice seemed a strange juxtaposition to my amateur ears. However, I appreciate Philip Glass and the LA Phil for the experience. Philip Glass selected Angelique Kidjo to sing the world premiere.  See pic of Philip Glass and Angelique Kidjo.