An orchestra founded by Island man Simon Ledger produced the walk-on for boxing star Ben Whittaker who fought in front of 15,000 people in South London last weekend (Saturday 15th June). Walsall-born Whittaker, an Olympic silver medallist, came out to an orchestral rendition of Canadian rapper Drake’s ‘Over’ ahead of his fight against Ezra Aryeneka on the Billam-Smith v Riakporhe undercard. The rousing walk-on music spurred Whittaker on to a unanimous decision win, despite receiving an illegal elbow and a headbutt during the 10-round bout. Symphonix Orchestra was set up by Simon Ledger and features local musicians among its ensemble of top-quality talent from across the country. The group’s string section was commissioned by Boxxer in the leadup to the fight and performed the piece at Selhurst Park – the home of Crystal Palace FC – and straight to TV sets across the nation on Sky Sports. Symphonix Orchestra CEO Simon Ledger has said:
“In around a week we managed to put it all together and the track was a special arrangement of Drakes song “Over” featuring an eight piece string section. “Ben Whittaker was a true gentleman shaking all of our hands on the rehearsal day and saying thank you to each and every one of the team involved. “It was quite touch and go as to whether we could get the players out onto the stage as it was raining up until 5 minutes before the start. “The feedback has been incredible and it has been noted that this is possibly the first time an orchestra has been used for a walk on for a boxing match.”
Symphonix currently have 3 shows touring the UK including Symphonix Soundtracks a 35 piece orchestra performing, Symphonix George featuring a 30 piece orchestra band and George Michael Tribute and Symphonix Queen with a 30 piece orchestra and band plus Punk Soprano and Freddie Mercury tribute.
