Shanghai Symphony Orchestra

(Jackson Hall - Mondavi Center; taken by camera phone)

The Shanghai Symphony Orchestra performance at the Mondavi Center for the performing arts at UC Davis was typical in the aesthetic sense. Although the music was riveting and bold, the shabby concert hall and the musicians’ cliché attire marginalized the overall performance. The traditional black tuxedos and black dresses gave created a very stifling and conservative atmosphere. At one point, the group of musicians became a large mass of black, which gave a visual effect that made the instruments look as if they were playing independently by themselves. It is apparent that the black wardrobe is meant to conceal the musician and emphasize the instrument. However, the instrument should not be the main spotlight on stage; the musician should deserve his or her fair share, as well.

On stage, the performers were divided into different subgroups and placed in a hierarchical system based on performance level. The center of attention during the performance was Yuja Wang, a well renowned pianist, who sported a playful, vibrant red dress. It was not fair that she was the only one who was allowed to wear something bold and alluring. When she entered the stage, the other musicians became transparent and negligible; back-up dancers for the singer.

The customary outfits designed for a musical ensemble develops a debonair stereotype for musicians. The media reinforces this notion through film and television that show the orchestras playing classical music while dressed in black. The preconception that all orchestras are formal and elegant prevents people from fully appreciating unconventional wardrobes. Designers should use this narrow-minded perspective as a driving force to broaden people’s expectations for symphony orchestras. Musicians should have the right to equal share of appreciation from the audience.