BBC Northern Soul Orchestrated comes to Birmingham’s Symphony Hall
The Orchestra transformed key Northern Soul tracks.
Photo: Rachelle Townley
Tonight I’ve swapped the Rivoli Ballroom in South London for the polished seats of the Birmingham Symphony Hall. I was not there to hear Handel’s Messiah, but classic Northern Soul tracks, performed by a full orchestra and six vocalists.
Being seated, I had some initial scepticism as to how the energy would translate compared to the typical dusty dancehall... I had nothing to be worried about! Each singer brought their own soul to the night, keeping the melodies true to our favourites, but adding some of their own personality for that extra sprinkle of fun.
Slowly, as you look around the room, people have begun leaping out of their seats, unable to contain their excitement. It did feel like a more intimate, upmarket all-nighter at some points.
When the first few chords of tracks like Out on the Floor and Do I Love You (Indeed I do) dropped, that’s when the room really began to react. Claps, cheers and some good old-fashioned shuffling could be found occurring from the stalls and even in the walkways.
My personal favourite cover of the night was Rita & the Tiara’s Gone With the Wind Is My Love. It had been sped up to match the vigour of the orchestra. I couldn’t resist anymore; I joined the group dancing to the side of the stage and had a right old time. You’d catch me by the water station in the foyer during the interval, catching my breath.
The key theme of the evening was nostalgia, mixed with the notion that we have to keep Northern Soul alive for the new and next generations. The Orchestra arrangements were respectful to the originals throughout, yet at times certain tracks had been edited to feel more cinematic and encapsulate the air of the venue... truly special.
Leaving the venue, you’d be greeted by a sea of smiling (yet slightly warm) faces. It was one of the most uplifting displays of Northern Soul I’ve ever witnessed. You could tell that everyone there has their own story about the magic of the genre. The BBC Northern Soul evening was a huge success and perfectly replicated the event that sparked it all: their evening at the Royal Albert Hall.
If you’re a fan of orchestral music, Northern Soul, or both, take a moment to check out the event and keep an eye out for any future events.
All photos by Rachelle Townley.
