Experience the extraordinary as the Peninsula Music Festival presents Percussion Party, an unforgettable evening showcasing the revolutionary talent of Dame Evelyn Glennie, the world’s first and foremost solo percussionist. Under the baton of Maestro Rune Bergmann, this remarkable program explores the power of rhythm, the depth of human expression, and the limitless possibilities of percussion, featuring works by Vincent Ho and Dmitri Shostakovich in a concert unlike any other.

The evening begins with Vincent Ho’s mesmerizing The Shaman: Concerto for Percussion and Orchestra, described by The New York Times as “brilliant and compelling.” Composed specifically for Dame Evelyn Glennie, this innovative work explores the ancient spiritual connections between percussion, ritual, and healing. Blending traditional orchestral sounds with a striking array of percussion instruments, Ho creates a sonic landscape that is both visceral and hypnotic, redefining what percussion can achieve in the classical realm.

At the heart of this extraordinary performance is Dame Evelyn Glennie, a musical revolutionary who has single-handedly redefined the role of percussion in classical music. After losing her hearing at the age of 8, Glennie developed a profound ability to experience sound through her body, feeling vibrations through her bare feet and entire physique. This unique approach to listening has made her not just a virtuoso performer but a pioneer in how we perceive and experience music.

A double GRAMMY winner with over 40 solo recordings, Dame Evelyn has commissioned more than 200 new works and collaborated with artists across classical, jazz, pop, and folk. Her groundbreaking career includes historic performances such as playing the first percussion concerto in the history of the BBC Proms and leading 1,000 drummers at the Opening Ceremony of the London 2012 Olympic Games. Honored as a Dame Commander of the British Empire and recipient of the Polar Music Prize, she continues her mission to “Teach the World to Listen” through her performances, foundation work, and inspirational TED Talks.

The second half of the program delves into the haunting and powerful world of Dmitri Shostakovich with his Symphony No. 10. Written in the wake of Stalin’s death, this monumental symphony is a work of intense emotion—filled with tension, defiance, and ultimately, triumph. From its dark, brooding opening to the ferocious scherzo (widely believed to represent Stalin himself) and the exhilarating final movement, this symphony is a profound testament to resilience and artistic expression.

Don’t miss this extraordinary opportunity to experience Dame Evelyn Glennie’s remarkable artistry and discover new ways of listening. This concert will not only entertain but transform your relationship with sound itself—offering both seasoned classical music lovers and newcomers a fresh perspective on what music can be. Secure your tickets now!

Conductor: Rune Bergmann

Vincent Ho: The Shaman: Concerto for Percussion and Orchestra

Dmitri Shostakovich: Symphony No. 10

Dame Evelyn Glennie, percussion soloist