Closing Night of the EFG London Jazz Festival: Gabriel Prokofiev’s GBRL PRKFV Ensemble Makes UK Debut

Elena Leo is the Arts & Lifestyle Editor of Ikon London Magazine.

GBRL PRKFV Ensemble’s UK debut: classical meets electronic in a thrilling festival finale.

What better way to close a weekend of extraordinary music than with a genre-defying debut? Gabriel Prokofiev’s GBRL PRKFV Ensemble will bring their electrifying blend of classical and electronic music to the EFG London Jazz Festival on Sunday, 24 November 2024, at the stunning Embassy Gardens venue.

Known for his work with Nonclassical, a movement that redefines the boundaries of classical music by fusing it with contemporary urban soundscapes, Prokofiev has carved a niche as a groundbreaking composer and performer. This concert marks the UK debut of the GBRL PRKFV Ensemble, which has already received acclaim for its performances in Brussels and Trieste earlier this year.

A Unique Musical Fusion

The GBRL PRKFV Ensemble showcases works from Prokofiev’s most recent albums (Pastoral21, Litvinenko, Breaking Screens, and Howl) alongside interpretations of pieces by Messiaen and Schnittke. Their sound is a compelling blend: classical virtuosity meets syncopated electronics, lyrical violins dance with analogue basslines, and angular strings are infused with irregular funk-inspired beats. It’s a performance designed to resonate with fans of both classical and electronic music, bridging traditional techniques with urban modernity.

The Financial Times lauded Prokofiev for his role in “redefining classical music conventions,” and his career has been a testament to this innovation. From composing internationally performed orchestral works to his iconic Concerto for Turntables No.1 at the BBC Proms, Prokofiev’s artistry defies categorization, making him a 21st-century trailblazer.

About the Venue

The performance will take place at World Heart Beat Embassy Gardens, a small but striking venue that’s quickly carving out a reputation for supporting fresh, boundary-pushing talent. Tucked into the lively Embassy Gardens development, this intimate space is a perfect match for the GBRL PRKFV Ensemble’s daring mix of classical and electronic music. Set in the heart of Embassy Gardens, this unique venue complements the innovative spirit of the performance. With its modern architecture and dynamic acoustics, the space provides the perfect backdrop for Prokofiev’s forward-thinking musical experiments. As a standing show, the intimate setup ensures an immersive experience for all attendees.