Stand by for a memerising and unique fusion of 90s dance hits and orchestral power
Dubai’s music scene is set to experience a unique performance on 9 November with Ministry of Sound Classical, a fusion of live orchestra and iconic 90s dance tracks led by renowned conductor David Mahoney.
Known for his innovative approach to blending genres, Mahoney and he’s cast has created an electric synergy, bringing the raw power of an orchestra to the pulsating energy of dance music.
An unexpected musical journey
For Mahoney, the path to conducting 90s dance anthems has been anything but typical. His introduction to music came through church, where he started with cathedral choir performances that instilled in him a deep respect for music’s structural foundation.
He later studied as a cellist and pursued music academically at Oxford, focusing on classical forms.
However, as Mahoney describes, “When I got to 21, I felt like I’d done my academic, serious classical journey. I needed a new outlet—a different kind of musical experience.”
After university, Mahoney expanded his repertoire, working with orchestras, musical theater productions, and eventually film orchestration.
His career took a bold turn when Ministry of Sound invited him to conduct their classical show.
“At first, I wasn’t sure what I was getting into,” he says. “But nothing could have prepared me for the energy of walking onto that stage. It’s the kind of exhilaration usually reserved for DJs or rock band lead singers.”
Bridging two musical worlds
Ministry of Sound Classical isn’t just a reimagining of dance music with orchestral instruments; it’s an immersive experience where electronic textures and orchestral power work in tandem.
“People are coming to a rave as much as a concert,” Mahoney explains. “We’re playing the full dance tracks alongside the live orchestra, which adds this visual and sonic power to the experience. It’s a show that truly unites dance music fans and classical music enthusiasts alike.”
According to Mahoney, the crowd’s excitement fuels the orchestra’s energy, and the musicians feed off the audience’s reactions.
“As professional musicians, we’re not used to this level of interaction, but it’s incredible. I can look out and see the joy on the orchestra members’ faces. They’re loving it just as much as the audience.”
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A new audience in Dubai
This weekend’s event marks Ministry of Sound Classical’s first performance in Dubai, and Mahoney is excited to connect with the city’s growing dance music scene.
“The production quality and the enthusiastic crowd I’ve seen here show how much the scene has grown. Ministry of Sound Classical fits right in with Dubai’s passion for big, memorable performances.”
Mahoney reflects on the crossover appeal of classical and dance music, explaining how the repetitive beats and dynamic drops of 90s dance hits provide an ideal structure for orchestration.
“Dance music’s consistent rhythm allows for so many orchestral layers; percussion, strings, brass. The results are massive, and with lighting, lasers, and screens, it’s a complete sensory experience.”
An invitation to dance, Dubai style
As Mahoney and the Ministry of Sound Classical team prepare for their Dubai debut, he extends a warm invitation.
“We want as many people as possible to come out and experience this. We’re bringing the nostalgia of 90s dance hits combined with a live orchestral twist that you’ll never forget. Come join us, Dubai; it’s going to be a night to remember.”
With Mahoney at the helm, Dubai audiences can expect an evening that’s part classical concert, part club night, and all unforgettable.
Whether you’re a die-hard dance fan or a classical music aficionado, Ministry of Sound Classical promises a show that will stay with you long after the final beat.
You can catch David and the Ministry of Sound Classical in Coca-Cola Arena on 9 November. 8.30pm. From AED199. For further information, visit coca-cola-arena.com
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