The Music of Elton John: Musician and Staff picks
Ahead of Royal Northern Sinfonia’s celebration of the music of Elton John we asked musicians and Sage Gateshead staff to pick their favourite tracks featured in the show – read about their selections below and then listen to the Spotify playlist we’ve put together of their choices.
Michael O’Donnell, Principal Oboe:
My track is I’m Still Standing. This song was played for a show my youngest son took part in. He’s normally the shy and retiring type, but he jumps around the room (we all do) like no one is watching whenever this comes on! I’ll do my best to sit still in the concert when we play this, but I’m not making any promises…
Patrick Ratliff, Head of Classical Marketing:
Circle of Life is an amazing, uplifting song that serves as the opener to one of the most iconic Disney movies and stage musicals ever. It never fails to give me a euphoric, hairs-on-end feeling!
Beverley Knight, Corporate Communications Coordinator:
My track is Saturday Night’s Alright For Fighting. Pure rock and roll, this track gets the heart pumping. It’s fun, it’s full-on, and it’s fabulous. You can even do a bit of a jive dance to it if you fancy. But on a serious note, the melodies are full of power. Love it and its energy.
Elizabeth Hogarth, Artistic Planning Manager:
I pick Saturday Night’s Alright For Fighting. I remember learning this for a show (back in my singer days) and thinking it was the best thing ever! Super exciting and hilarious singing it on stage as a group to a large audience in Greece. Best night ever.
Tegwen Jones, viola:
I choose Goodbye Yellow Brick Road. I went to Elton’s Farewell Tour at The Stadium of Light in Sunderland and what a performance! An absolutely fantastic gig that I will never forget.
Ella Tennant, Orchestra and Stage Coordinator:
My favourite Elton track is Electricity. Billy Elliot is one of my favourite musicals, and it’s extra special when it’s being performed in the North East. I always have to hold back the tears!