It is not every day that a musician can have an entire symphony orchestra backing his typically one-man band.
Ed Kuepper, solo artist of four decades and lead guitarist of the iconic 1970s Brisbane band The Saints, ignited the smoky Tivoli stage to break the silence of the COVID struck local music scene. Conducted by Peter Morrie and orchestrated by Rob Davidson, the musicians of Queensland Symphony Orchestra (QSO) accompanied Kuepper in bringing the stage to life.
The thick, resonant chords of Kuepper’s guitar were hugged by the expressive melodies of the violins and the rest of the so gracefully put together orchestra. It was the crisp and intense combination of his guitar and vocals united with the sonorous orchestra that truly encapsulated unique and contemporary sounds.
The intimate feel of the two-story Tivoli theatre was conducive for the audience to share the vibrations of his deep and woody vocals. Without overpowering the orchestra, Kuepper delicately formed an elegant piece of Brisbane’s renowned orchestra. By mixing classical ensembles with contemporary performers, the rare sight of such contrasting compositions evolved so effortlessly.
The banter between Kuepper and QSO conductor, Peter Morris, warmed and entertained those in the audience as everyone, including Kuepper, witnessed what would originally be two separate people playing the role of the conductor. Kuepper continued to amuse the audience by asking them to cheer louder and longer to fill the empty spaces due to social-distancing requirements. With the constant cheering and a few standing-ovations, that they certainly did.
This performance was supported through Tourism and Events Queensland, and Arts Queensland’s play local funding as part of the Queensland Government’s Arts and Cultural Recovery Package. It is also part of The Tivoli’s Open Season program.
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