A SYMPHONY AMONG SAPLINGS

By Tom Ffiske | Immersive Wire ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Press Invite

Every once in a while, I like to be surprised. The kind of surprise where you wander into a room with light expectations, take a seat among plants, soft lighting, and the occasional tree, and simply settle in for a lovely time. What I didn’t expect was not only some fantastic performances from the cast but also an atmosphere unlike any other music venue. Sure, you could go to the Royal Albert Hall and listen to some great orchestral pieces, but this? This was something else; more intimate, more colloquial, and undeniably relaxing.

DEBUT is a series of concerts and symphonies run by a single person, who coordinates the invites. These concerts are also held at the Brunel Museum, and bring together talented musicians from across the UK and beyond. The setlist ranged from classical staples (Mozart, for instance) to more modern pieces, including selections from Les Misérables. We were treated to a pianist improvising beautifully based on audience suggestions, a baritone singer with a voice so deep it resonated through the space, and an ensemble of instrumentalists complementing each other seamlessly. These artists change every month, but with a promised consistency of high quality.

But what struck me the most wasn’t just the quality of the music – though it was excellent. What truly stood out was the camaraderie between the performers. They weren’t just playing; they were conversing, laughing, even pausing mid-piece to exchange playful feedback. It felt like an intimate glimpse into their creative process, a reminder that music is not just about technical skill but also about connection and spontaneity. The whole experience was wonderfully relaxed, free from the stiffness that can sometimes accompany classical performances. I found myself lost in thought, yet completely engaged with the flow of the evening. It was like tagging long with a bunch of pals.

I left feeling incredibly happy. In fact, I was so inspired that soon after, we wandered into a jazz bar to soak up even more live music. If that’s not a testament to the magic of DEBUT, I don’t know what is.

DEBUT plays at Shoreditch Treehouse at the end of every month.

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