In a crescendo of beats and symphonic harmonies, Powderham Castle recently played host to an electrifying event that seamlessly blended the worlds of electronic dance music and classical orchestral grandeur. Under an August starlit sky, dance music enthusiasts gathered to witness a spectacle that broke down boundaries between genres and eras. This captivating concert, known as "Ibiza Classics," was led by none other than the legendary DJ Pete Tong, famous for his Radio 1 ‘Essential Selection’ show.

Ibiza Classics is a musical concept that reimagines the vibrant and energetic sounds of classic house tracks by infusing them with the brilliance of a full symphony orchestra. The brainchild of Pete Tong, Ibiza Classics was born from a desire to bridge the gap between electronic dance music and the timeless allure of orchestral arrangements. This innovative fusion breathes new life into iconic house anthems, creating an unforgettable experience that resonates with music enthusiasts across generations.

Pete Tong conceived the idea of Ibiza Classics as a way to pay homage to the music that has shaped the dance culture of Ibiza. With a career spanning several decades, Tong's understanding of the evolution of electronic dance music uniquely positions him to curate a show that both celebrates the past and propels it into the future. Ibiza Classics reflects his deep appreciation for the classics while reimagining them in a fresh and captivating manner.

The event was kicked off by a sublime set of house classics courtesy of Bristol based DJ Max Rad who provided the tunes that got everyone loosened up for the main event.

At the heart of this mesmerising concert was the Essential Orchestra, originally led by the brilliant conductor Jules Buckley with a stand in for this evening’s show. The orchestra skilfully blended electronic beats with the lush sounds of traditional instruments, breathing new life into beloved house tracks. Their performance created a harmonious synergy between the electronic and orchestral elements, evoking powerful emotions and bringing an added layer of depth to the music.

Amongst the classics performed throughout the evening were tremendous versions of Robert Miles’ ‘Children’, Rui de Silva’s ‘Touch me’, the instrumental brilliance of ‘The Man with a Red Face’, Snap’s ‘Rhythm is a Dancer’, Faithless’s ‘Insomnia’, Ultra Nate’s ‘Free’ and so many more.

The concert was not only a treat for the ears but also a feast for the eyes. The enchanting melodies were accompanied by a stunning light and laser show that painted the night sky with vivid hues and intricate patterns. The trees surrounding the arena became canvases for a mesmerising display of lights and lasers, enhancing the overall atmosphere of the event. The symbiotic dance of music and visuals transported the audience into a realm where sound and light coalesced once again, into a captivating spectacle.

As the final notes reverberated through the air, it was evident that the Ibiza Classics concert had created a lasting memory for all in attendance. The show's ability to unite generations under a common musical umbrella showcased the timelessness of dance music. The concert provided a perfect finale to the bank holiday weekend in August, offering an immersive escape that left attendees with a renewed appreciation for the power of music and its ability to breakdown barriers.

Words and Pictures by Steve Muscutt