Beckett & Feldman: A Symphony of Absurdity

Sheffield recently hosted a concert that celebrated the collaboration between writer Samuel Beckett and composer Morton Feldman. The event featured their 1987 absurdist radio play, 'Words and Music,' which was lovingly staged by the Sheffield Chamber Music festival. This performance highlighted the deep artistic connection between Beckett, described as a "word man," and Feldman, the "note man."

Before delving into the radio play, the concert opened with Beckett's poignant monologue, 'Rockaby.' Performed by Siobhán McSweeney, the piece depicted a desolate exploration of aging and isolation, with the character revolving in her chair and responding to her own recorded voice, hinting at dementia.

Following this, Feldman's composition 'Why Patterns?' showcased the independent yet synergistic creations of flautist Clare Jefferis, pianist Tim Horton, and glockenspiel player Lewis Lee. Their performance in ever-changing time signatures created a hypnotic, purely Feldman-esque soundscape.

The climax was the staging of 'Words and Music,' where Siobhán McSweeney portrayed Joe, a 'words man,' in conflict with Bob, represented by conductor George Morton and musicians. The arrival of Croak, embodied by Jonjo O'Neill, added anarchic comedy as he demanded exploration of themes like love and age, ultimately departing and leaving the musicians free for an unexpected, Feldman-like harmony.