12 ‘anti-concertos’ examine a different aspect of stifled voices

London Sinfonietta premieres a composition by Laurence Osborn, alongside works from Hannah Kendall and Luciano Berio on being heard, acceptance and community.

British contemporary classical composer Osborn’s new work Mute is a series of twelve ‘anti-concertos’ presented in four movements, each examining a different aspect of stifled voices: the evolving voice of the siren song as heard through beeswax earplugs; vocal manipulation techniques in pop music using tools like Melodyne; death and disembodied voices inspired by a Mark Fisher interview with electronic musician Burial; and fragmented references to Audrey Hepburn’s solos in My Fair Lady.

In these ‘anti-concertos’, solo instruments are periodically overwhelmed by their own solos and other ensemble members, emphasising the importance of listening and being heard amidst a crowd of voices.

The programme also features the UK premiere of Hannah Kendall’s shouting forever into the receiver, winner of the 2023 Ivor Novello Award for Best Large Ensemble Work. Inspired by a line from Ocean Vuong’s novel On Earth We’re Briefly Gorgeous, the piece explores meditation and stillness through an instrument traditionally associated with Afro-diasporic sorrow.

Opening with Luciano Berio’s O King and Chemins II, and closing with his Folk Songs, with readings and narration throughout by literary artist Belinda Zhawi, this programme offers an imaginative exploration of voice, community and the struggle to be heard in today’s complex world.