BREAKING THE RULES – Photographing the OAE

Twenty-one years ago I received my first commission from the Orchestra of the Age of Enlightenment, and to my astonishment and great pleasure it is ongoing. I approached their Chief Executive about putting on a retrospective exhibition of the work…he agreed and the show will coincide with their 30th anniversary in June.

I need to raise funds for printing and mounting the show, and for a catalogue. I’m appealing to music-lovers everywhere to contribute in making this exhibition possible.

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About the exhibition

When I was first commissioned by the OAE I never dreamed that it would turn into a marriage of such long duration. The length and breadth of the collaboration has lasted over twenty years now, and long may it continue! It has afforded me the opportunity to get to know many of the players, which as time passes allows for an intimacy and a trust that is very rare in photography, a profession that, like the proverbial shark, requires constant forward movement.

Some of the musicians have been in front of the camera since the very first shoot back in 1996, some have retired, and as these things go, there have been many newcomers to get to know. I’ve been able to watch and listen to this amazing orchestra for a long time, and it never ceases to amaze me when all these people that I photograph and have gotten to know on a personal basis, upon entering the concert hall, shed their friend status, and perform so magnificently and passionately as consummate performers.

For the longest time I’ve avoided looking at the work as part of a whole…each year has brought a new assignment, a new challenge, a new concept. The occasion of the OAE’s 30th anniversary made me realise that looked at in its entirety, my work with them is a pictorial history that has both reflected their spirit and helped shape their identity. I say this with pride, but also with humility…pride because it has also helped shaped my own identity as a photographer, and humility because I am constantly in awe of the art and intelligence these musicians bring to their craft…they are truly a group of inspirational people.

This summer I will be displaying the results of this collaboration at the Royal Festival Hall, from June 4-8, 2016. Please come and see for yourselves.

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