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This season, London Symphonia has had to make many difficult decisions dealing with the pandemic, including changing rules, and concerns about safety for audiences, musicians, and staff. However, since its inception, Symphonia have emphasized creating quality documents of our concerts, and have developed strong relationships with Sound Engineer Geoff Warder and Videographer Michael Fisher. Thus, we were well poised when the pandemic hit to shift into online performances, providing an opportunity for us to continue delivering live entertainment directly to people's homes.

With tremendous help from the community (Thank you!), and from granting programs (Thank you!), London Symphonia have endeavored to realize the entire season, with changes to accommodate rules and guidelines.

The list of hurdles has been significant.

Social distancing, wearing masks except when impeding performance, Plexiglas shields – you know the drill. At the last concert featuring Sarah Slean, there were 35 players on stage, stretching Symphonia to the limits. The Metropolitan United Church space is uneven, and it is hard for players to hear each other so spread apart, and with shields. Thus,  various monitors were added (speakers) to help fix these issues. As well, Sarah and the rhythm section (drums, bass, percussion) were situated together in the middle, radiating the sound out to the orchestra to help keep the rocking ship together.

Lastly, it was impossible to include the 60 piece choir originally intended, so the choir recorded their parts, and wove them into the live performance through playback – the magic of modern technology! It was great to include the London Singers Youth Edition, and give these singers a chance to do what they love – sing together – a rare happening these days. 

The next concert is December 20^th featuring the Celtic-fusion ensemble and London favorite Rant Maggie Rant.

Led by singer and violinist Lindsay Schindler, this high energy group brings a rich selection of traditional and original songs. London Symphonia felt they were a perfect fit to celebrate the holiday season. This concert features a 12 part brass instrument (horns, trumpets, trombones, and tuba) orchestra to play alongside, with new arrangements I have made just for the occasion. It has been a pleasure working with the ensemble, and adding colour to their songs with rich brass sonority and dynamic punch, creating what I believe will be a knee stomping, shiver creating, warm fuzzy, and occasional tear concert event!

If all goes as planned, Symphonia hopes to continue providing audiences with in-home live concert streaming even when concerts are open to attendees. For some elderly and mobility challenged people, being able to enjoy high-quality community entertainment at home or in a care centre is an optimal choice. Also, this opens us to audience potential from around the globe.

Please check out what we have to offer at London Symphonia and support live music in London!

Written by Scott Good