Canadians have never been afraid of doing something weird, and The Nova Scotia symphony is no exception. From pop hits of Elton John and The Beatles to the greatest sci-fi symphonies, the group seeks to take listeners on a wild trip through musical outer space this year.
ELTON JOHN AND THE BEATLES USED TO LURE FANS
It’s safe to say symphonic music has seen better days. Orchestra’s the whole world over are getting creative in order to attract new legions of listeners. Sadly, Mozart just doesn’t cut it anymore. In order to start the 2016-2017 season off with a bang, Nova Scotia Symphony looks to pop culture to lure fans. They’re calling it Symphonic Fusion, and it has a taste for everyone. Whether you want to get down to Elton John, rock out to the Beatles or indulge in outer space theme music, Symphonic Fusion is a cornucopia of styles. Fans can expect to hear hits like Elton John’s “Rocket Man” and Billy Joel’s “The Piano Man” in the mashup show called The Piano Men. Symphonic Fusion will then take you across the universe with an array of Beatles tunes from their entire catalog.
LEGENDARY COMPOSER GOES TO OUTER SPACE
Howard Cable, the legendary composer responsible for this seeks to gain inspiration from outer space as well. Back by popular demand, the Sci-Fi Symphony hosted by Garret Wang will feature music from Star Wars, Lord of the Rings, Batman, Harry Potter and more. Playing more with the theme of outer space, Canada’s favorite musical astronaut Chris Hadfield will come to the symphony. Hadfield will perform original songs as well as famous cosmic themes from the Beatles, David Bowie, Apollo 13, E.T and more.
MAINSTREAM SHOWS CRUCIAL FOR CLASSICAL SUCCESS
Of course, the symphonies will still play the classic ballet’s like the Nutcracker and Swan Lake as well as the renowned works of Beethoven and Mozart however, it’s the mainstream shows that are really vital to bringing in revenue. Combining the Beatles, Elton John and outer space is a recipe for success no matter which way you cut it. These renditions may not be as technically complex as Igor Stravinsky but they just may help a new generation of fans get into the genre. If they really want to go the hip route, they should ditch Elton John, and The Beatles while pursuing something a little more modern. Skrillex with violins will probably go down great with the kids. Just wait for the drop.
