As a conductor, Alessandro Fabrizi has performed with orchestras from around the world. But London’s Royal Philharmonic Orchestra (RPO), he says, is special.
“Each orchestra has its own characteristics. Some times, a conductor bonds well with one particular skill section in an orchestra. But the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra is very versatile. The musicians can approach any kind of music with many different conductors,” he says. “And they can perform anything with just a few hours of rehearsals. That’s why they are one of the greatest orchestras in the world.”
Fabrizi and the RPO will make their UAE debut on February 19 when they perform at second Dubai Classics, the two-day classical music event at the Dubai World Trade Centre. The two-hour concert will feature music from Beethoven to Mozart, Dvorak and Barber, to contemporary masters Sibelius and John Williams, known for his work in films such as Star Wars, Jaws, Indiana Jones, Jurassic Park and E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial.
The event’s second night, on February 20, will feature the Moscow Virtuosi Chamber Orchestra, led by Vladimir Spivakov.
The first night’s programme will be classical music that a lot of people will recognise, says Italian conductor Fabrizi.
“It’s mostly a film programme but not just the works of Williams. The rest of the scores are all great classical pieces but that have been used in or associated with films,” he says.
Fabrizi, who began playing the piano at the age of five and quickly saw his curiosity in music turn into a passion, says he prepares for a show by studying the story of the composer, even before he learns the score.
“It’s mostly for my own curiosity but it helps to know about the life of the composer when he wrote that piece. It gives me a better understanding of what he wanted to convey with the score, the message he was sending. This way, I can give the correct tempo, the right colours and the balance.”
Spending a considerable number of days a year travelling, the 40-year-old considers himself an ambassador for classical music.
That many people think classical music is for the older generation, is wrong, he says.
“In countries such as Germany and in the UK, it’s thriving. I performed in Berlin recently and the hall was full of young people.
“I think the responsibility to correct that misconception lies with the management of orchestras. They need to have programmes that will attract younger people,” he says.
Classical music is a powerful tool for personal development, says Fabrizi. “It works on the core of your emotions and teaches you to work together with different people with various skills and abilities. It’s the perfect occasion to put together different people from different backgrounds to produce something beautiful together.
“Just look at the Dubai Classics: You’re going to have a British orchestra, an Italian conductor, coming together in the UAE. That’s the beauty of music.”
Dubai Classics runs from February 19-20 at the Dubai World Trade Centre. Tickets, starting from Dh350, are available on platinumlist.net.
Quote/Unquote
“It’s a real pleasure being invited to perform in Dubai, one of the world’s most innovative cities. The Orchestra has performed on many world stages and I’m sure this experience will be one of the most memorable.” — Ian Maclay, managing director of the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra.
“In our 35th anniversary year, our world tour will reach more countries and more people than ever before, showcasing the range and beauty of many of our favourite composers, particularly Tchaikovsky. Every member of our orchestra is excited to meet and inspire both existing fans in Dubai but also those who may be hearing their very first concert orchestra.” — Vladimir Spivakov, chief conductor, Moscow Virtuosi Chamber Orchestra.
