Twilight Mass World Premiere Carnegie Hall
As a photographer with a keen eye for the performing arts, I had the opportunity to capture the essence of the Twilight Mass World Premiere at Carnegie Hall. This event, held on November 13, 2023, was a celebration of musical mastery and artistic expression.
The event was headlined by the world premiere of Ola Gjeilo’s “Twilight Mass,” conducted by Jonathan Griffith, and a unique treble-only rendition of Vivaldi’s “Gloria,” conducted by Nancy Menk. The evening also featured solo performances by soprano Diana McVey and mezzo-soprano Emily Hughes, adding a layer of vocal brilliance to the performances.
The stage was filled with an array of talented choirs, including the Groton Dunstable Regional High School Chamber Choir, the Academic Choir of Nicolaus Copernicus University in Torun, and the Muenchner Frauenchor - Munich Women's Choir, among others. Each group brought their unique energy and style to the performance.
My task as a photographer was to weave a visual narrative that complemented the auditory experience. In capturing Vivaldi's "Gloria," I focused on the dynamics of the performance, the ensemble's precision, and the soloists’ emotive power. The treble voices rendition added a fresh perspective to this classical piece.
Gjeilo's "Twilight Mass" was a journey through a blend of serene and vibrant moments. As the choirs and soloists navigated through the nine sections of the Mass, my camera worked to encapsulate the emotion and unity of the performers. The challenge was to capture the vastness and elegance of the stage setting, as well as the individual expressions and intensity of the performers, creating a visual story that complements the musical journey.
Practical Tips for Capturing Performing Arts Photography:
Study the Program: Understanding the pieces and performers helps in anticipating key moments.
Strategic Positioning: Choose locations that capture both wide stage shots and close-ups.
Lighting Challenges: Adjust camera settings to handle varying lighting conditions.
Focus on Emotion: Aim to capture the passion and intensity of the performers.
Discretion is Key: Move quietly and respectfully to avoid disrupting the performance.
