What to see at Sydney Opera House: the harp played right

Step into the ethereal world of Mary Lattimore, the acclaimed American harpist and composer, as she prepares to grace the iconic Sydney Opera House with her mesmerising debut performance on December 4.

Lattimore, a virtuoso of the 47-string Lyon & Healy harp, has been enchanting global audiences for over a decade with her captivating narratives set to music. Her sonic tales, woven with emotional resonance and vivid imagery, are set to come alive in the intimate setting of the Utzon Room.

Not just a solo act, this special performance will also feature the talents of guitarist Paul Sukeena, adding another layer of intrigue to an already spellbinding evening.

Lattimore’s latest solo album, “Goodbye, Hotel Arkada” (2023), is a testament to her evolving musical journey. This expansive soundscape incorporates not just the harp, but also guitar, keyboard, Theremin, and more. The album features collaborations with Lol Tolhurst of The Cure, Meg Baird, and Rachel Goswell from Slowdive, further broadening its auditory horizons.

Beyond her solo work, Lattimore is a sought-after session musician, having collaborated with a diverse range of indie rock and experimental musicians, including Thurston Moore, Sharon Van Etten, Jarvis Cocker, Kurt Vile, and Jeff Zeigler. Her 2020 album, “Silver Ladders,” created in collaboration with Slowdive’s Neil Halstead, saw her ambient harp paired with richly textured arrangements.

Ever since embarking on her solo career in 2012, Lattimore has been crafting intricate stories through her music, inviting listeners to embark on an immersive journey with her. This intimate connection between artist and audience is so captivating that it transports listeners beyond the physical realm, immersing them in a dreamscape of melody and emotion.

Casey Green, Sydney Opera House Producer for Contemporary and Classical Music, expresses her enthusiasm for Lattimore’s upcoming performance: “We are delighted to be welcoming the wondrous harpist Mary Lattimore to the Utzon Room for her Sydney Opera House debut. Her work is completely transporting, and her twilight performance in this intimate setting will be awe-inspiring. Come for the water views at dusk, stay for an ambient, ethereal journey that is not to be missed.”

EVENT DETAILS

WHAT: Mary Lattimore

WHEN: 7pm, 4 December 2023

WHERE: Utzon Room, Sydney Opera House

PRICES: From $59 + $8.95 booking fee

Insiders pre-sale: 9am AEST, Tuesday 10 October, 2023

What’s On pre-sale: 9am AEST, Wednesday 11 October, 2023

General Public on sale: 9am AEST, Thursday 12 October, 2023

Feature image: Rachel Cassells