MUSIC REVIEW: MIAF Nigel Westlake

In his introductory talk, composer (and conductor for the night) Nigel Westlake described the program as a retrospective of his works for guitar, which had been composed for ‘inspirational’ guitarists. Chief of these was Slava Grigoryan who was on centre stage for the whole evening, at times joined by pianist Michael Kieran Harvey, fellow-guitarists – his brother Leonard and Doug de Vries – and, after interval, the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra. Stellar performers all, but there was a deeper level to this concert, which was a rare insight into the creative process of composition, and the bonds formed between musicians. In a heart-stopping tribute to his son Eli, who died tragically earlier this year, Westlake dedicated the concert to him, and told a warmly sympathetic audience that his family was present in the music composed in a peaceful and supportive home. Similarly, the bond between Westlake and Slava Grigoryan was evident throughout the night. The first part of the concert, featuring the well-known Hinchinbrook Riffs, Jovian Moons and Songs from the Forest was faultless in execution – but the best was kept for last. This was a new work for guitars, Shards of Jaisalmer, whose intricacy, melodic sweetness and resonance was both classic Westlake and hinted at new influences and directions for the composer’s work. After interval the MSO joined Grigoryan for the dynamic Shadow Dances, a showpiece for the guitarist’s virtuosity, and then the popular Antarctica – Suite for Guitar and Orchestra, drawing on music originally composed for the IMAX film Antarctica. As a suite it worked beautifully, moving from an evocation of the chilly landscape (with Julie Raines’ harp in tandem with the solo guitar, and the drone of the strings) to an “icy blast” of music before the semi-comic relief of the penguin ballet and then the stunning Ice Core/ Finale. A stunningly successful concert – on every level. Nigel Westlake – Shadow Dances Bookings: The Arts Centre, Hamer Hall Date/Time: Tuesday 14 October at 8pm Bookings: Ticketmaster on 1300 136 166 www.melbournefestival.com.au