The Magik of Orchestral Indie Rock

Posted on Aug 6, 2009 | 1 comment
Filed under: indie rock, magik*magik, Popular Music, Video

There’s nothing new about the use of orchestral instruments in rock music, but this is particularly lovely. Founded last year, the Magik*Magik Orchestra‘s elegantly stated mission is to “simplify the collaborative process between independent rock musicians and classical artists.” Here they join indie rock artist John Vanderslice in a classroom at the San Francisco Conservatory where founder and Artistic Director Minna Choi recently earned her master’s degree in composition.

I admire Minna’s restraint as an arranger here. Note the use of a sole bass drum as the entire percussion battery. The singers add color and depth without ever pulling focus from the front man. Enjoy!