Lior & Westlake: Songs with Orchestra

Overview

Although Lior Attar and Nigel Westlake originate from different corners of the musical world, they both have a reputation for emotionally charged compositions. The raw sincerity of Lior's Autumn Flow saw it become one Australia's most successful debut independent releases, whilst Westlake's stirring 2011 tribute to his murdered son, Missa Solis: Requiem for Eli, brought Sydney audiences to tears.

Now, the two are collaborating for the first time, on a symphony titled Compassion. Marrying Lior's striking vocal powers with Westlake's riotous orchestral arrangements, it's a powerful, melodic work, inspired by a selection of ancient Jewish and Islamic writings.

The piece will be premiered at the Sydney Opera House on September 6, with Lior at centrestage and Westlake conducting the Sydney Symphony Orchestra. The first half of the evening will feature orchestral arrangements of some of Lior's most well-loved original songs, including 'Daniel', 'Bedouin' and 'This Old Love'.