LSO Percussion Ensemble: Steve Reich at 90

The evening is built around the percussive pulse of Steve Reich, celebrating his ninth decade through three works that trace his fascination with interlocking rhythms. You will hear Music for Pieces of Wood, where five musicians use simple wooden blocks to create a complex, resonating pattern of sound. The programme also includes the Quartet for two pianos and two vibraphones, alongside the Sextet, which incorporates synthesizers and bowed metal. Listen for the way Reich uses small shifts in timing to create a shimmering effect, where the steady beat seems to fluctuate even as it remains constant. We can expect a performance that moves from the stripped-back clarity of raw wood to the dense, multi-layered textures of the larger ensemble pieces. The music relies on phase-shifting, a technique where identical patterns gradually move out of sync, creating new melodies that emerge almost by accident from the rhythmic friction.

The LSO Percussion Ensemble is drawn from the principal players of the London Symphony Orchestra. Based at their home in Old Street, these musicians are known for their precision and ability to navigate the most intricate contemporary scores. While the full orchestra handles the symphonic repertoire, this smaller configuration allows the percussionists to showcase the technical demands of chamber music. They have a long-standing association with the minimalist tradition, often bringing a sharp, orchestral clarity to the steady pulses and rigorous structures found in modern American composition.

The performance takes place at LSO St Luke's in London. With a running time of approximately 85 minutes, this is a concise and focused concert that works well for those who prefer a shorter evening without an interval. The venue is a converted church known for its clear acoustics, which suit the sharp attacks of percussion instruments. There is no specific dress code for this event, and the accessible price point makes it an approachable choice for someone new to minimalist music.