Jazz and Fusion with Charlotte Glasson at the National Portrait Gallery

After arriving in London on an early Friday evening, I decided to try out one of the National Portrait Gallery’s free Late Shift events. My pick was an hour of live music by Charlotte Glasson and her band. I went along with little knowledge of the artist and low expectations for the evening and so was pleasantly surprised with the experience I was greeted with.

Buried among the stunning galleries on the second floor, the session took place in a room which you would not have thought was the largest one of the floor. With the walls covered in political portraiture and the room packed with music lovers, the atmosphere was one of excited anticipation for the hour to come.

Glasson opened with Blues, moving onto Jazz and many other types of world music, with even a few Tango numbers thrown in. Each song was played beautifully with charismatic comments here and there between songs - enough to keep engaged without overstepping the mark. Talent was not aligned purely to Glasson either, each member of her band enjoyed spots of the limelight as all four were shown recognition for their playing.

A wide variety of instruments were used, ranging from a saxophone to a flute to the penny whistle. Glasson's assortment of musical instruments is so extensive in fact, that she even brought along a saw to play upon. Using a bow, she played the saw and produced a surprisingly charming tune.

As the audience grew throughout the hour, their captivation remained, with many dancing in their seats. Perhaps that's the only thing that this session could have done with - somewhere to dance. But personally, I think the packed in effect of the overflowing audience added to the intense passion of the music, creating an enlivened feel. 

These Late Shift evenings are not limited to music performances either. Every Thursday and Friday, from 6pm-9pm the National Portrait Gallery acts host to lectures, documentaries and film and art sessions, ensuring that there is something for everyone. For this performance to be free of charge, at one of the most fantastic galleries in London, I'm glad to say I experienced it and recommend the Late Shift sessions to all.



Charlotte Glasson: http://www.charlotteglasson.com/
NPG'S Late Shift: http://www.npg.org.uk/whatson/lateshift/late_shift_home.php