The Detroit Symphony Orchestra conducted by Vince Mendoza performed with Wayne Shorter and Esperanza Spalding at Orchestra Hall on November 2nd. This was a stunning showcase of well known songs by Wayne Shorter and one song "Midnight in Carlotta's Hair" composed by Esperanza Spalding, Wayne Shorter and the DSO. The first piece "Gaia " is a brand new complex and dynamic composition that has only been performed in a few select cities. “Gaia” is named after the Greek goddess of the Earth.
Shorter has had a diverse and iconic career performing with Art Blakey and the Jazz Messengers, Miles Davis Quintet ,Weather Report, and many others. He is eighty years old and is always ready for something new. His collaboration with Esperanza Spalding is dynamic. Her voice is gorgeous, incomparable to anyone else's, and overall Esperanza has an otherworldly quality. She received two standing ovations at the concert. Keep a lookout for upcoming concerts from these two. It will be interesting to see what develops.
