THE SPACE COLLECTIVE PERFORM ‘ CLAPPING MUSIC ’ WITH THE HEADMASTER
A musical performance with Mr Elzinga , in his office , 15 accompanying student musicians , but no instruments . Not your typical musical performance , this is the essence of the Space Collective .
Based in The Space , the Space Collective takes music performance to previously unimagined spaces around the school campus , with the performing of one discipline in the space of another serving as affirmation of the school ’ s interdisciplinary ethos . Mr Wey has inspired the group with contemporary and experimental music that defies tradition and pushes boundaries , shaping this group into performing cutting-edge and unique pieces .
This time , the Space Collective filmed the instantly recognisable minimalist masterwork Clapping Music , by Steve Reich , for a social media audience . Reich ’ s highly energetic piece exudes ideas of listening , teamwork and trust , as well as exactness and perfection . The Space Collective was joined by the Headmaster , Mr Elzinga , with this collaborative performance serving as a metaphor for these qualities .
The piece is short , sweet and to the point , stripped down to the basics , yet effortlessly captivating . Steve Reich had the idea while pondering the questions , ‘ What if there ’ s a power failure in a gig ? What if everything goes off ?’ He had a sort of Eureka moment and was inspired to write Clapping Music in 1972 .
Two groups clap a simple rhythm , with one group shifting ahead incrementally using the phasing technique . It seems simple . But in fact , this flamencoinspired canon is deceptively challenging , requiring incessant concentration , especially when in a large group where synchrony is key .
An effective rehearsal process was necessary . In the Collective , this involves all students democratically throughout the project . Tempting as it was to seek out Mr Wey ’ s feedback – especially in the early stages – the group became increasingly independent as confidence grew . Eve Ward , Alex Corti and Charlene Wong drove progress with their insightful comments and Nathan Lee guided the group with accurate and steadfast counting . The last few weeks of rehearsals were jovial , explorative and perceptive , and the effort put in came to fruition with a satisfying performance joined by Mr Elzinga .
It has been nothing short of a pleasure to be a part of such a distinctive and flourishing group ; Mr Wey ’ s fresh blends of minimalism and less niche contemporary pieces provide a musician with a broader grasping and appreciation of music . It was also a fantastic opportunity to get to know Mr Elzinga more . What particularly impressed me was the Confucian aphorism displayed in his office : ‘ Our greatest glory is not in never falling , but in rising every time we fall ’. This was very inspiring for me individually , and apt words for the adventurous Space Collective .
Paul Gildemeister , Lower Sixth
62 MUSIC REVIEW