A middle-eastern celebration bounds to life in this cross-cultural collaboration between composer and songwriter.

The collaboration of Australian composer Nigel Westlake and Melbourne-based singer-songwriter Lior seemed a slightly unusual pairing from the outset. Throw the Sydney Symphony into the mix and a new work inspired by traditional middle-eastern texts, and the partnership promised to return some unexpected results.

Amidst the throes of federal election weekend, the composer and songwriter took to the Opera House concert hall stage in front of a diminutively-sized SSO. Lior, an immediately likable character, thanked the audience for their attendance and expressed his gratitude to be performing alongside the orchestra with Nigel conducting at the podium.

The first half, featuring Lior’s songs accompanied by orchestra, began with Daniel – the inclusion of tubular bells and a range of percussive interjections adding spice to the contemplative ballad.

Other highlights of the set included Grandfather – Lior’s clear voice and delicate vibrato recounting intimate memories from childhood – and Bedouin Song, solo guitar warm and comforting in this poignant tribute to new beginnings.

While the setlist nicely showcased Lior’s talents as a songwriter, the second half’s premiere performance of Compassion promised something a little more exciting. Co-written by Lior and...