The world premiere of my orchestral arrangements of Cecile McLorin Salvant’s desert island ballads, beautifully rendered by Cecile, Sullivan Fortner, David Wong, Kush Abadey, and Orchestre national d’Île-de-France under the wonderful direction of maestro Bastien Stil, takes place on Saturday, April 20 at the Paris Philharmonie’s Cité de la Musique. There are subsequent performances across France the days to come with ONDIF and Orchestre national Avignon-Provence, and with Auditorium-Orchestre national de Lyon directed by Dirk Brossé — check Cécile’s website for details.
As you might imagine with a project of this scale, rehearsals have been intense — big thanks to maestro Bastien Stil for his sharp focus, attention to detail, consummate musicality, generous spirit, and most of all his judicious and efficient time management — perhaps *the* most important skill a conductor needs to possess! Watching Maestro Stil work has been a true inspiration.
And of course it has been a pure pleasure to work with Cécile, Sullivan, David, Kush, and all of the incredible musicians in ONDIF. They began the first rehearsal yesterday with my version of Brecht & Weill’s immortal “Barbara Song” and the sound sent shivers down my spine. What an unbelievable thrill! That first moment of hearing the music you’ve invested so much toil into suddenly come to life is unbelievably special, a moment I’ll carry with me for the rest of my days.
Un immense merci à tous mes amis de l’orchestre! Bon concert!