Bristol's Musical Mind
Classical Musical in Bristol
​Talking about classical music with Dr Liz Lane
Dr Liz Lane is a composer and a music technology lecturer of UWE Bristol.
In the interview, due to Dr Liz knowledge about classical music, we discuss the change and growth of classical music.
One of the key points that were discussed was how 'informal' the performances are now. During Dr Lane's childhood, she would remember that when going to concerts, it will mainly play traditional pieces, however, now classical music takes on different forms, ideas and cultures.
With the Bristol Beacon and St George being one of the largest venues that can host orchestras, they have become very important to the Bristol classical scene. As they are fundamental to this music scene, work is done to ensure that classical music goers are still interested in visiting the venues. Such examples is the Bristol Beacon renovation and the extension project that st George underwent in 2018
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Surprisingly enough Bristol does not have their own symphony orchestra but they do have an ensemble
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One interesting part I discuss with Liz was how classical music is adapting, by taking in form of ideas, forms and culture. One example in Bristol is the Surtaal Symphony, where a brass band, soprano voice and a Bhangra band called RSVP, plays a piece together
The future of classical music
By keeping the classical music scene interactive it's has become a vital part, especially when trying to keep the classical music scene afloat in Bristol. And with the use of the internet, it also becomes a bridge to other people, who do not hear this type of music, which can intrigue them. Current technology has also been used to help continue performances. This was very apparent during the COVID-19 pandemic, though it has stopped a lot of performances, it has not fully halted it, as people found ways to still perform with the help of recording software, streaming platforms and the Internet to share with other people. This technology did not exist nearly 20 years ago and that shows a massive cultural change in regard to technology and how that has helped the classical music scene if not all other music scenes.
Projects, people and other cultural events in the classical music scene
Classical Bristol is a monthly newsletter, dedicated to keeping people updated with the classical music scene in Bristol
St George is a well known venue for both classical and jazz music
Open up music is a charity organisation that enable young people with disabilities to still be a part of ensembles and perform music .
This project, performed by musicians from the age of 8 - 80 years old, presents the history of Bristol's aerospace industry.
This symphony is a mixture of a brass band, soprano voice and a Bhangra band called RSVP. This is a lovely example of how classical music has diversified by mixing cultures.
While the Bristol Beacon is ongoing changes, it is key to remember that this Hall is originally known for being the largest hall in the South West and the oldest music venue in Bristol.
Hover over the box to see the pictures and click on the picture to see the links