Full Breakdown
Mark Simpson's *The Immortal* Premieres at Liverpool Philharmonic Hall
3/30/2026, 10:40:33 PM
Overview of the Performance
The premiere of Mark Simpson's *The Immortal* took place at the Liverpool Philharmonic Hall, conducted by Daniela Candillari. This new version of the gothic oratorio, which features a libretto by Melanie Challenger, departs from the original by omitting the full choir and some percussion elements. The work delves into the life of Frederic Myers, a Victorian scholar and founder of the Society for Psychical Research, who sought to explore the existence of life after death through séances. The title character, "The Immortal," refers to Myers' lost love, whose tragic drowning left a profound emotional impact on him.
Musical Elements and Performance Quality
The performance showcased a range of vocal talents, particularly from the eight-member Exaudi ensemble, which created a dynamic soundscape incorporating snippets from historical séance transcripts and traditional religious texts. The oratorio's emotional depth was highlighted by baritone soloist Rory Musgrave, who portrayed Myers. His poignant delivery of the line, “I wanted her to be immortal,” encapsulated the existential themes of the work. However, the use of microphones for the soloist drew mixed reactions, as some audience members found the sound distorted at times.
Conductor's Mastery and Additional Works
Daniela Candillari's conducting was noted for its precision and warmth, effectively guiding the orchestra through the contrasting pieces performed that evening. The concert opened with Edward Elgar's *Serenade for Strings*, which set a light and lilting tone. Following the intermission, Candillari led a compelling rendition of Jean Sibelius's Second Symphony, demonstrating her rapport with the orchestra. The performance was characterized by a vibrant momentum, particularly in the allegretto, and culminated in a powerful finale that left the audience uplifted.
Audience Reception and Future Prospects
The evening was marked by a blend of vivid light and darkness, reflecting the thematic contrasts within *The Immortal*. Audience members expressed appreciation for Candillari's ability to navigate the complexities of the score, and there is hope for her return to conduct future performances at the venue.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I wanted her to be immortal.” — Rory Musgrave, Baritone Soloist
- “ Bravo to Candillari who maintained masterful control of the sometimes eerie, often fearsomely raging, forces of orchestra and voices while also giving Musgrave, possessor of a sonorous bass-baritone, space and stillness to effectively deliver the existential work’s reflective solo passages.” — Review Commentary
This premiere of *The Immortal* not only highlights Mark Simpson's innovative approach to contemporary oratorio but also reinforces the Liverpool Philharmonic Hall's commitment to showcasing diverse musical expressions.
