The Center for Performing Arts presented “Night Moves” this past weekend, performed by the Illinois Philharmonic Orchestra. Dedicated to the planets in the solar system, imagery for each of the planets was accompanied by the orchestra’s beautiful music, both tailored to the astrological themes of the planets.
The Illinois Philharmonic Orchestra has been playing in the local area for years, at colleges and high schools. With a number of changes in conductors/directors, some audience members find that the music has improved significantly, though it is worth mentioning that the orchestra has always been incredible.
Audience members at the event mentioned that they’ve been visiting the Illinois Philharmonic Orchestra for years, and it has been improving steadily. “We’ve been members for the last 30 years, and the last 10 years they have improved so much. The last several conductors were excellent, and the others didn’t run the tightest ship, so they brought in new conductors,” one attendee mentioned.
Another agreed that the music has improved, “We’ve been coming since the 80’s, and the new guys are more precise.” She mentioned that the current director, Stilian Kirov, also presents newer pieces from lesser known artists, and isn’t opposed to introducing some variety, “The new conductor picks pieces out of the box. He’s not afraid to take risks, he doesn’t just stick with the classic guys. He’ll give newer composers a chance.”
Another audience member described the performance as moving, “It was moving, I felt it in my body. I really liked when they brought the choir on, it added depth to the sound and was a perfect way to end it. I am fascinated by watching the musicians, I was watching the percussionists and the woodwinds,” said Lauren Healy, the Cultural Development Officer at GovState.
Throughout the performance, stage lights were dimmed and changed colors, from soft white to pale pink. A projector screen was lowered onto the stage and depicted imagery of the planets and their landscapes, with rumbling suspense and low gentle hums of music. Music ranged from mischievous to energetic. The planets in the solar system were described by a certain phrase, such as Mars, the Bringer of War.
Charles Amenta, from the Illinois Philharmonic Orchestra board of the directors, said: “It was very unusual to have the visuals, so that was another gentlemen’s conception, and he tries to choreograph it to the course.” The timing of the imagery was done in real time, “That’s all individual timing, it’s not very strict. The orchestra has to stay with the conductor, and he has to choreograph his visuals,” Amenta said. He explained that the visuals are not typically included in an orchestra, but they worked.
It’s currently unclear if the Illinois Philharmonic Orchestra will continue playing at the CPA due to disagreements about price, but the orchestra is happy to continue playing at the Center if an agreement is reached.