It’s hard to imagine the world’s biggest house anthems getting any better – or bigger – than what they already are. However, when an orchestra meets the best dance music of the last 30 years it happens and it happens with absolute electrifying and euphoric bliss. Synthony No. 3 is the ultimate fusion of a classical orchestra playing classic club hits in the hottest orchestrated dance party of 2023.
With sold out shows across New Zealand and Australia, Synthony No. 3 culminated into an epic final dance party at Sydney’s ICC on April 22. Almost 9,000 Sydneysiders buzzing with anticipation packed the theatre. Their excitement was palpable and I soon discovered why. Synthony No.3 is an incredible hybrid concert where unlikely genres including a 60-piece orchestra, DJs, and live vocalists deliver the crowds most beloved house tracks. Swirling strings, big sounds, dirty bass, and incredible vocals coupled with an exhilarating strobe light display made every note hypnotic.
DJ Mobin Master was first-up, warming up the crowd with a set of dance tracks. His energy was infectious as was his dance moves and interaction with the audience. He was followed by DJ duo Super Disco Club. The pair kept the party going, even though the mixing between songs on their set list seemed to drag on a little more than desired. By this stage the crowd was well and truly warmed up and ready for the main attraction.
The Metropolitan Orchestra took to the stage closely followed by well-renowned master conductor Sarah-Grace Williams. Under the baton of Williams, the orchestra started with a remix of Beethoven’s famous 5th Symphony.
The Potbelleez lead vocalist Ilan Kidron – who also doubled as the night’s host – treated the audiences to the band’s huge hits ‘From The Music’ and ‘Don’t Hold Back’, both of which were undeniable crowd-pleasers. Rogue Traders’ Natalie Bassingthwaighte stormed the stage with attitude and personality, delighting fans. Thandi Phoenix wowed the crowd with her sublime voice in huge dance tracks including ‘Lola’s theme’ by The Shapeshifters. She also brought a level of sass to Jax Jones’ ‘You Don’t Know Me’ that was super entertaining.
The dynamic Greg Gould was the perfect vocal fit for ‘I’m Not Alone’ by Calvin Harris and Daft Punk’s ‘One More Time’. However, it was Cassie McIvor’s incredible voice which stole the show. Her rendition of the Calvin Harris remix of Florence + The Machine’s ‘Spectrum’ was flawless, while her version of ABBA’s ‘Gimme! Gimme! Gimme!’ had everyone in the stadium dancing.
Matty O performed some of the best lead saxophone solos for some of the most iconic house hits. His performance was intoxicating and gave the songs an extra level of depth, especially in one of the most loved house classic ‘Infinity’ by Guru Josh.
Under Williams’ baton, The Metropolitan Orchestra brought the dance hits to life with intensity, power, and emotion. Through the simple chord progression of Eric Prydz’s instrumental ‘Pjanoo’ s the orchestra showcased a beautiful tone and mastery. With every wave of her baton, Williams elicited huge enthusiastic cheers from the audience. Each track was instantly recognisable, taking the crowd on a nostalgic party journey down memory lane.
Williams hooked the audience and held them in a trance – no pun intended – with each hit song better than the last. It wasn’t until the concert’s encore closer that the crowd went wild – and for good reason. The night closed with one of the most iconic tracks in dance history – Darude’s ‘Sandstorm’. The moment the first note sounded a righteous roar erupted from the audience. The songs build up aided by an impeccably timed light display was perfect. You truly have not lived until you hear this track performed by an orchestra.
Dance music will never be enjoyed quite like this – not until every club has an in-house 60-piece orchestra. Synthony No.3 is hypnotic, exhilarating, and truly a masterful fusion of orchestra sounds playing the biggest house classics. It promised to deliver the hottest dance party of 2023 – and it did not disappoint. If, and when, Synthony returns to Australia – do yourself a favour and be the second in line to get a ticket – because I know I’ll be the first!
– Antoinette Milienos
Antoinette is a Journalist, Violinist, and chronic suffer of F.O.M.O (fear of missing out).
Synthony No.3 is no longer running. Keep an eye out for future tour dates.
