Simon Bruckard

“Bruckard’s music moved from driving aggressive syncopation through sleazy sexy, as a sensual saxophone marked the passing of time ... music and staging created an enthrallingly ethereal atmosphere.”

“The score, jittery and discordant, edged with the kind of tensions usually associated with jazz, suddenly shifts when the curse is placed; there is a profound welling as if from the depths, as Apollo whispers in Cassandra’s ear “you’ll never be believed.” It’s chilling.”

“Bruckard’s scoring for two pianos, saxophone and percussion, however, provided a nigh-constant sense of rhythmic propulsion that was appropriately offset by languid, sleazy saxophone solos and punctuated by terrific set-piece arias for the main characters.”

“There is a blend of stylistic influences, from Late Romantic opera to modern music theatre. Some of the choral writing is simply stunning.”

“Composer Simon Bruckard’s captures the story with dynamic shifts in mood, from the playfulness of the children and the grumpiness of the giant to the sprightly spring and the glacial winter.”

“Bruckard created a rich musical world, thanks to inventive orchestration and a lively awareness of how to use his forces to best effect.”

“This abridged account of Humperdinck’s enchanting score, headed by conductor Simon Bruckard and played by the excellent 14-piece orchestra, was both balanced and charming.”

“Generating the drama, Humperdinck’s beautiful tapestry of effervescent melodies, musical landscapes and darker interjections that characterise the work were delightfully realised by conductor Simon Bruckard in leading a 14-strong contingent of musicians making up the Victorian Opera Chamber Ensemble in the Playhouse Theatre pit. Not a note appeared to drift off course and the warmth and care of playing provided thoughtful support for the stage.”

“Simon Bruckard’s musical direction assured balance and well judged tempi throughout.”

“Adopting Britten’s version for two pianos, Simon Bruckard and Peter Toohey justly proved drag diva Dolly Diamond’s hilarious introductory words as having “some of the best fingering in the business”.”

“Conductor Simon Bruckard leads an orchestra of seven musicians in a well rehearsed and prepared performance that belies the brand new nature of the work. ”

“Twist’s music sounds particularly good thanks to calm, confident conducting from Simon Bruckard, who is a Developing Artist with the company. On several occasions on opening night, young singers looked to Bruckard for their cues and found themselves in very secure hands.”

“They are ably supported by Simon Bruckard’s thoughtful conducting which drew smooth, precise playing from a small band of nine musicians of Orchestra Victoria on opening night, a credit to his work as a Developing Artist with Victorian Opera.”

“Along with this finely-tuned cast, musical director Simon Bruckard uses only a single piano to provide fantastic support to his players and created some magical moments for the audience to enjoy.”

“Simon Bruckard on piano was delightful in skill. This is a wonderful piece of cabaret not to be missed. ”