What The World Needs Now: The Burt Bacharach Songbook

We expect this evening to highlight the intricate craftsmanship of Burt Bacharach’s songbook, a repertoire defined by its unusual time signatures and lush harmonic structures. Rather than the smaller jazz or pop ensembles often associated with these hits, the Royal Philharmonic Concert Orchestra provides a panoramic symphonic backdrop. You will hear how these melodies, which often sound effortless, rely on a sophisticated blend of brass and strings to achieve their distinctive sound. The evening is likely to balance upbeat, rhythmic anthems with the more delicate, wistful ballads that Bacharach composed throughout his career. Listen for the specific way the woodwinds interact with the vocalists, mirroring the vocal phrasing that made these songs famous in the mid-twentieth century. While the exact running order remains to be seen, the programme serves as a comprehensive study of a composer who successfully bridged the gap between easy-listening pop and orchestral complexity.

The Royal Philharmonic Concert Orchestra is celebrated for its versatility, frequently performing across the UK in venues ranging from grand halls to open-air festivals. They are joined by conductor Rob Shirakbari, who brings a deep understanding of this specific musical style. The vocal duties are shared by Rumer and Ed Harcourt. Rumer is widely recognised for her smooth, nostalgic vocal tone which aligns closely with vintage pop traditions, while Ed Harcourt is known for his multi-instrumental skills and emotive delivery. Together, this ensemble specialises in bringing a polished, large-scale sound to celebrated popular catalogues.

This performance takes place at the Victoria Theatre in Halifax, a venue known for its traditional atmosphere. Given the accessible nature of the music and the focus on well-known melodies, this event is well-suited if you are new to orchestral concerts or looking for a familiar entry point into symphonic music. The programme is presented in English. While no specific dress code is required, many attendees at this venue opt for smart-casual attire. You should check the venue arrivals information closer to the date, as a specific running time has not been confirmed for this October date.