Incredible life story of deaf percussion star
Perth Concert Hall saw a world-famous percussionist who has overcome deafness share her incredible life story with Perthshire school children and adults.
‘A Conversation with Dame Evelyn Glennie’ on Wednesday night was hosted by Perthshire Society of Natural Science (PSNS) to celebrate its 150th anniversary.
After an introduction by PSNS vice-president David Bowler, Dame Evelyn captivated her audience by launching straight into a virtuosic solo performance on snare drum.
Dame Evelyn then joined Horsecross creative director of classical music, James Waters, for a fascinating conversation about her musical beginnings, her influences, her drive to become the world’s first solo percussionist and how she adapted to her deafness by learning to use her whole body as a sensory organ for sound waves.
She illustrated her story with wonderful performances on the Mike Bell, PSNS council
marimba and vibraphone and an almost mystical improvisation played on a variety of percussion instruments.
The second half began with three short pieces played with skill and passion by Perth and Kinross Percussion Ensemble, conducted by percussion tutor Lynsey Paterson.
The evening concluded with some questions from the floor answered with humour and sincerity by the charismatic musician.
She was thanked by Alistair Godfrey of PSNS Council and the audience departed with new insights into the creative mind of one of Scotland’s most revered musical icons.
Next week PSNS is launching its 2017-2018 season of Curious Minds talks with Kimberley Bennet of Abertay University talking about The Remarkable Physiology of the Seal at the AK Bell Library at 7.30pm on Friday, October 13. Dame Evelyn (left) and Perth fans. Photo: Mike Bell