As legendary American composer Steve Reich approaches his 90th birthday on 3 October, the title of Ensemble Offspring’s celebratory concert, REICH: REJOICE: REPEAT, is particularly fitting. While the title’s alliterative quality is a sprightly indicator of the repetitive nature of Reich’s compositions, it also places a central focus on the spiritual experience of rejoicing.

This is a phenomenon that often accompanies Reich’s work. His music is interwoven with such tightly controlled lines of repetition, spanning fearsome lengths of time, that any slight variation in this sonic fabric affects a profound sense of discovery and excitement. When heard through headphones, Reich’s output is so fabulously relentless as to render a near-hypnotic effect.

Claire Edwardes and Richard Cilli performing Metronomes (from Steve Reich’s Recital) for Ensemble Offspring in 2018. Image: a still from the YouTube video courtesy of Ensemble Offspring

Yet when seen live, there is a unique dimension of muscularity and strength than extends beyond merely performing music. When audiences can see the immense stamina and concentration demanded by Reich’s work up close, the experience ascends to the heights of near-religious exultation.

“It’s also a kind of personal rejoicing...