Playing Patterns: Percussion & Strings – Colin Currie & Ensemble 360 (Upper Chapel, Sheffield)

A thrilling finale of rhythm, pattern, and pulse at Upper Chapel

Virtuoso percussionist Colin Currie joins members of Ensemble 360 for Playing Patterns: Percussion & Strings — a powerful evening of contemporary music driven by rhythm, repetition, and expressive intensity.

Described by Steve Reich as “one of the greatest musicians in the world today”, and by Gramophone as “at the summit of percussion performance”, Colin Currie brings astonishing virtuosity and presence to this life-affirming programme.

Presented in Sheffield’s atmospheric Upper Chapel, the concert forms a major highlight of Music in the Round Sheffield’s Percussion, Pattern & Primes weekend.

The programme

This richly varied programme showcases bold voices in contemporary composition, blending percussion with string quartet textures:

• Kevin Volans – Asanga

• David Horne – Pulse

• Andy Akiho – Spiel

• Toshio Hosokawa – Reminiscence

• Bryce Dessner – Tromp Miniature

• Rolf Wallin – Realismos Mágicos

• Andy Akiho – Aluminous

• Robert Honstein – Continuous Interior

• Sam Adams – Sundial

Highlights include Dessner’s hypnotic marimba solo Tromp Miniature — written by the GRAMMY-winning composer who is also guitarist with The National — and Akiho’s Aluminous, where minimalist percussion loops are underscored by richly expressive strings.

Why this concert stands out

• A rare chance to hear one of the world’s leading percussionists up close

• A programme packed with rhythmic drive, colour, and contemporary energy

• A dramatic live experience where visual performance is as compelling as sound

This is a bold, visceral concert that promises to captivate both contemporary music fans and curious newcomers alike.

Booking offers

Part of the Music in the Round Sheffield series:

• Save 20% when booking 10 or more concerts in one transaction

• Save 10% when booking 5 or more concerts in one transaction

🎟 Tickets & full details:
https://www.sheffieldtheatres.co.uk/events/playing-patterns-percussion-strings