Music

Trans-Siberian Orchestra Transforms Tradition

Contemporary perceptions of an ordinary orchestra performance are turned upside down by the innovative rock style of the Trans-Siberian Orchestra.  Their show incorporates rock and roll renditions of conventional Christmas carols by transforming them into a rock opera full of lights and lasers that is sure to brighten spirits this season. 

For eleven years the Trans-Siberian Orchestra has been touring North America, spreading holiday cheer through their intense and inventive reformation of traditional orchestra, opera, and musical performances as a whole.  Co-founder, composer, producer, and lyricist, Paul O’Neill envisioned something bigger than just a band performing a few concerts. 

In his biography at www.trans-siberian.com, O’Neill writes, “I wanted to take the very best of all the forms of music I grew up on and merge them into a new style… the rock opera parts from bands like the Who; the marriage of classical and rock from bands like Emerson, Lake & Palmer; the over-the-top light show from bands like Pink Floyd.”

This extreme convergence of genre and technique becomes more than the production of an fun concert--it becomes an extraordinary experience.  Technology is so fully incorporated into the show, it may as well be considered another member of the band.

The Night Castle Tour is the newest sensation, contrasting tender narratives of holiday spirit with explosive pyrotechnics, lights, and lasers, while simultaneously illustrating themes of unity and peace.  One piece references the tragedies in Darfur and hardships in Palestine, intertwining the bittersweet sound of the cello with the image of a battlefield.  The story suggests that where there is music, there is hope.  Images of national flags are displayed side by side, joining them together with the common aspirations for peace brought about through the power of music. 

A delicate presentation of fluid purple and gold lasers counter the intricate, bold flashes that coincide with every note the lead guitarist plays during customary solos.  It is not unusual to see hard hitting rock solos in the midst of a spiritually oriented song.  The drummer punctuates with an equally boisterous performance.   While flashy lights often imply distraction, the Trans-Siberian Orchestra manages to use such dynamic special effects to accentuate their talents.

Although their time in Chicago for 2009 has passed, the Trans-Siberian Orchestra continues to leave a lasting impression on the area through donations to charities like Blessings in a Backpack and the Illinois Special Olympics.  This unique group of musicians goes on their first non-holiday tour this spring.  It promises to be a show to push the limits once again.