Music / Paraorchestra
Paraorchestra’s ‘The Anatomy of the Orchestra’ returns to Bristol Beacon
Paraorchestra’s ‘part-installation part-concert’ The Anatomy of the Orchestra is returning to Bristol Beacon on February 27 for a series of three free-to-attend afternoon performances, following a hugely successful event in 2018.
Led by artistic director Charles Hazlewood, the ensemble will be playing celebrated American minimalist composer Steve Reich’s The Four Sections.
As before, the audience will be free to roam around the architectural splendour of the Bristol Beacon foyer, with 51 Paraorchestra members dotted around all four levels, playing their instruments live.
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The resulting impact is truly dynamic and immersive, and enables the viewer to participate in a more personal experience, exploring ‘the inner workings’ of a modern orchestra.
The greater informality of these performances also make them ideally suited to families with children who may not have experienced a concert before.

Paraorchestra – The Anatomy of the Orchestra, at Bristol Beacon (2018) – photo: Paraorchestra
The event will be filmed for Sky Arts, and will become one episode of a six-part series presented by Hazlewood, featuring Paraorchestra.
Although the performances will be standing/walking, there will be some seating available for anyone unable to stand for a sustained period of time.

Paraorchestra – The Anatomy of the Orchestra, at Bristol Beacon (2018) – photo: Paraorchestra
Paraorchestra with Charles Hazlewood: The Anatomy of the Orchestra is at Bristol Beacon on February 27. There will be three 30 minute performances (starting at 1pm, 2.30pm and 3.45pm); all the events are free but tickets must be booked in advance from www.bristolbeacon.org.
Main image: Paraorchestra
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