Robin A. Smith celebrates with his band the legend Mike Oldfield: With »Tubular Bells«, Oldfield didn’t just release his debut album in 1973—he composed an experimental instrumental album that had a massive influence on the development of British progressive rock. The album not only became a number one hit, it remained in the British album charts for a total of 288 weeks and is now considered the best-selling instrumental album of all time. »Tubular Bells II« followed in 1992, further expanding on the motivic themes and theatrical variations of his first work, as well as pushing its boundaries with an innovative spirit. On »Tubular Bells III«, which completed the work in 1998, the composer continued to experiment with the diverse influences of musical avant-garde, classical music, and modernity, such as electronic music and rock music.
Under the direction of Robin A. Smith, whom Oldfield knew with great confidence and trust would bring »Tubular Bells« to the stage to perfection, his remarkable discography continues to be performed. With a premiere at the Royal Festival Hall in London in August 2021, »Tubular Bells« was performed for the first time under Smith’s baton as a tribute to Mike Oldfield’s life’s work. The show thrilled the press and long-time as well as new fans, who quickly felt connected to the timeless work through Smith’s unique interpretation.
PERFORMERS
Robin A. Smith & Band
PROGRAM
The Best of Tubular Bells I, II & III