Philip Glass
St John's, Smith Square, London

Very much better known in the USA than in Europe Philip Glass recently made a rare appearance in London. Last time I heard him he was performing his work with a small group that included electric organs and flutes; at St John's he played solo on the pipe organ.

Throughout the evening Phil used registrations that produced sounds of a beautiful crystalline and transparent quality. Even when using a heavy bass this was balanced by a bright clear treble giving the effect of cut glass in warm candlelight.

This music (somewhat reminiscent of Terry Riley, Steve Reich and Robert Boyle) is quite largely based on changing sequences, repeated and overlaid to produce great waves of sound. On occasions he also uses sharp or prolonged chords. There is a strong rhythmic, at times almost 'rocky' quality, to this music, a quality of delicately controlled energy.

Philip Glass has a considerable keyboard technique although in the lovely opening piece there were slight signs of lack of precision - it takes great stamina and technique to play a solo programme of this nature and those qualities he certainly has.

There are plans for a further, more extended visit by Phil in about six months' time. Meanwhile, if you haven't heard him live you can try Music for Changing Parts on Virgin's Caroline label, CA2010 and North Star on Virgin V2085.