a seven piece all-singing, some-drumming ensemble of familiar Bristol faces…
Stevie Toddler
Bristol-based bassist / singer / songwriter Stevie Toddler creates utterly unique soundworlds, drawing from a whole range of genres – pop, jazz and classical – and a broad palette of artists – Dirty Projectors, St Vincent and Radiohead amongst many others. Boasting high profile fans such as Jamie Callum and Guy Garvey, Toddler’s songwriting is full of surprises and her live band features some of Bristol's finest.
Stevie Toddler (bass and vocals)
Harriet Riley (vibraphone and percussion)
Danny Tryani (synths)
Jon Clark (Drums)
Stevie's new album, 'Last Time Forever' will be self-released and available on vinyl at the show.
Rosie Tee
Rosie Tee is a composer and performer who forges an innovative, atmospheric blend of electronica, psych and avant-pop amongst the industrial backdrop of the UK's second city, Birmingham. Her work spans explorative songwriting, immersive sound-design and writing for large-scale ensembles.
Since 2018, she's collaborated closely with her quartet, touring across the UK with a line-up of offkilter synths (Piera Onacko), swarming bass (Dan Cippico) and textural drums (Kai Chareunsy). Together, they ebb and flow between digital and analogue worlds, most at home on the stage of their cinematic live performances, where they've supported artists like Stealing Sheep, Submotion Orchestra, Flamingods and The Orielles. Festival performances include Fat Out Festival, Mostly Jazz Funk & Soul and Cheltenham Jazz Festival.
boci
boci is an innovative violinist and songwriter based in Bristol, who creates emotive, astral alt-folk using her voice, guitar and violin with ethereal electronic effects, backed by warm synths and vocal harmonies. Her songwriting draws much inspiration from time spent in the natural world, walking alone in the mountains of Scotland, Wales and the Lake District.
boci (guitar, violin loops, vocals)
t l k (synths, vocals)
Hidden Notes Records present a special double bill featuring 2 of the UK's leading contemporary chamber acts; neo-impressionist chamber quartet Spindle Ensemble and violin and cello Klezma duo Fran & Flora.
SPINDLE ENSEMBLE
Since their formation in Bristol in 2016, Spindle Ensemble have garnered much praise for their innovative take on contemporary classical music. Their distinctive sound is a combination of composer Daniel Inzani’s idiosyncratic modern-impressionist pieces and the deft musicianship and unorthodox instrumentation of piano and harp (Inzani), violin (Caelia Lunniss), cello (Jo Silverston), marimba and vibraphone (Harriet Riley). The ensemble are renowned for their beautiful use of melody and harmony and their unique narrative style which transports listeners into an inner-realm of imagery and storytelling.
Spindle Ensemble’s acclaimed latest album Inkling received features and reviews in the likes of the Big Issue, Electronic Sound, BBC Music Magazine, Louder Than War, Loud and Quiet, Joyzine and A Closer Listen and was listed in the Guardian’s 10 Best Contemporary Albums of 2021. They will also be performing works from their collaboration in Canada with the legendary Evergreen Club Contemporary Gamelan.
“Such a rich live feel” Gideon Coe on BBC Radio 6
“Sumptuous, broad ranging and beautiful.” Joyzine
“Beautiful sounds, definitely a band to watch” Fiona Talkington on BBC Radio 3, Late Junction
FRAN & FLORA
Multi-award nominated experimental-folk violin and cello duo Fran & Flora are celebrating the release of their self-produced 2nd album, 'Precious Collection’ (Hidden Notes Records, April 2024). Fran & Flora research and reinvent traditional Eastern European Jewish melodies and songs, infusing source material gleaned from archival recordings, recovered manuscripts and studies with traditional masters with improvisation and electronics to create a 'border-defying' aesthetic (Mojo).
Following the release of their debut album 'Unfurl' in Feb '19 (‘beguiling beauty’ - The Wire; ‘brave and classy’ - The Guardian; ‘indisputable virtuosity’ - Songlines), 'Precious Collection' explores the depths of Ter-Berg and Curzon's 10 year collaboration, featuring unique arrangements and self-penned tunes pushing their ground-breaking project to new heights.
Known for their dynamic live performances they have sold out venues including Kings Place and Cafe Oto, and have performed at festivals worldwide including Hidden Notes, London Jazz Festival, Smugglers, Fire In The Mountain, Shtetl Neukolln (Berlin), Ancienne Belgique (Brussels), and KlezKanada (Montreal).
"A string duo bound for glory..." Max Reinhardt, BBC Radio 3 Late Junction
"Brave and classy" The Guardian, Contemporary album of the month
Hidden Notes Records present a special double bill featuring 2 of the UK's leading contemporary chamber acts; neo-impressionist chamber quartet Spindle Ensemble and violin and cello Klezma duo Fran & Flora.
7:30pm Doors
8:00pm Fran & Flora
9:15pm Spindle Ensemble
10:30pm Finish
SPINDLE ENSEMBLE
Since their formation in Bristol in 2016, Spindle Ensemble have garnered much praise for their innovative take on contemporary classical music. Their distinctive sound is a combination of composer Daniel Inzani’s idiosyncratic modern-impressionist pieces and the deft musicianship and unorthodox instrumentation of piano and harp (Inzani), violin (Caelia Lunniss), cello (Jo Silverston), marimba and vibraphone (Harriet Riley). The ensemble are renowned for their beautiful use of melody and harmony and their unique narrative style which transports listeners into an inner-realm of imagery and storytelling.
Spindle Ensemble’s acclaimed latest album Inkling received features and reviews in the likes of the Big Issue, Electronic Sound, BBC Music Magazine, Louder Than War, Loud and Quiet, Joyzine and A Closer Listen and was listed in the Guardian’s 10 Best Contemporary Albums of 2021. They will also be performing works from their collaboration in Canada with the legendary Evergreen Club Contemporary Gamelan.
“Such a rich live feel” Gideon Coe on BBC Radio 6
“Sumptuous, broad ranging and beautiful.” Joyzine
“Beautiful sounds, definitely a band to watch” Fiona Talkington on BBC Radio 3, Late Junction
FRAN & FLORA
Multi-award nominated experimental-folk violin and cello duo Fran & Flora are celebrating the release of their self-produced 2nd album, 'Precious Collection’ (Hidden Notes Records, April 2024). Fran & Flora research and reinvent traditional Eastern European Jewish melodies and songs, infusing source material gleaned from archival recordings, recovered manuscripts and studies with traditional masters with improvisation and electronics to create a 'border-defying' aesthetic (Mojo).
Following the release of their debut album 'Unfurl' in Feb '19 (‘beguiling beauty’ - The Wire; ‘brave and classy’ - The Guardian; ‘indisputable virtuosity’ - Songlines), 'Precious Collection' explores the depths of Ter-Berg and Curzon's 10 year collaboration, featuring unique arrangements and self-penned tunes pushing their ground-breaking project to new heights.
Known for their dynamic live performances they have sold out venues including Kings Place and Cafe Oto, and have performed at festivals worldwide including Hidden Notes, London Jazz Festival, Smugglers, Fire In The Mountain, Shtetl Neukolln (Berlin), Ancienne Belgique (Brussels), and KlezKanada (Montreal).
"A string duo bound for glory..." Max Reinhardt, BBC Radio 3 Late Junction
"Brave and classy" The Guardian, Contemporary album of the month
An exquisite reimagining of iconic songs exploring love, loss and transcendence.
Paraorchestra, Brett Anderson, Charles Hazlewood and Gwennocome together for Death Songbook – an anthology of music by icons such as Echo and the Bunnymen, Skeeter Davis, Japan, David Bowie/Jacques Brel and Suede.
Journey through the melancholy and euphoria of loss with new takes on famous songs about death. Amplified by the diversity of Paraorchestra musicians and with new arrangements by composer Charlotte Harding, Death Songbook is a reminder that music is our greatest friend in the darkest of times.
Contrary to Paraorchestra’s bold and electronically influenced output, Death Songbook embraces a predominantly acoustic sound. Celebrate a multiplicity of styles, moods and textures through an unusual combination of instruments – from the hammered dulcimer to the Wurlitzer piano.
Charles Hazlewood is the Artistic Director of Paraorchestra – a Bristol based ensemble of disabled and non-disabled professionals. They are joined by the lead singer of Suede Brett Anderson and the multitalented, Mercury Prize-nominated musician Gwenno.
Support comes from captivating Manchester folk duo The Breath.
Paraorchestra, Brett Anderson (Suede), Charles Hazlewood and Gwenno come together for Death Songbook, an exquisite anthology of music by icons such as Echo and the Bunnymen, Skeeter Davis, Japan, David Bowie/Jacques Brel, and Suede.
This rich set amplified by the diversity and virtuosity ofParaorchestra musicians in new arrangements by composer Charlotte Harding features delicate new versions of songs about death, the death of love, of loss, and ultimately of transcendence.It reminds us that music is our greatest friend in bleak times; inviting us to crouch around a candle and meet our sorrow head-on, comforting, nourishing, and uplifting.
Don't miss their captivating performance at In The Round Festivalthis spring.
Support comes from Roundhouse resident artist Faker Villain.
Sound and light collide spectacularly in a sensory swan-dive created by Paraorchestra in collaboration with Surgeons Girl, Oliver Vibrans and Limbic Cinema.
This concert experience opens with a new commission from Paraorchestra composer Asteryth Sloane, Prelude to a beginning.
Incorporating Paraorchestra’s trademark combination of acoustic, analogue and digital instruments, Trip The Light Fantastic invites us to move towards – and embrace – the light.
Paraorchestra
Charles Hazlewood conductor
Sinead McMillan (Surgeons Girl)
Asteryth Sloane: Prelude to a beginning (London premiere)
Sinead McMillan (Surgeons Girl): [with responding composer Oliver Vibrans]: Trip The Light Fantastic (London premiere)
This isn’t a performance you simply see or hear. It’s one you feel – Bristol 24/7
With a cinematic score by Goldfrapp’s Will Gregory, The Nature of Why takes inspiration from the unconventional curiosity of theoretical physicist Richard Feynman and his search for meaning in the world around us.
Audiences join performers on the Lyric stage and are invited to explore the constantly shifting action, seeking out their own unique encounters, resulting in an epic and immersive theatrical experience like no other.
A modern ode to joy – The West Australian
Commissioned and supported by Unlimited
Composed by Will Gregory
Choreographed by Caroline Bowditch
Conducted by Charles Hazlewood
Directed by Caroline Bowditch and Charles Hazlewood
Fri 1 Mar
7:30 pm
Sat 2 Mar
2:00 pm
7:30 pm
On Midsummer’s Night, the real and fairy worlds collide.
Four young lovers, faced with the prospect of unhappy marriage or worse, flee the court of Athens and stumble into an enchanted forest. Nearby, a group of amateur actors rehearse a play to celebrate an upcoming royal wedding.
As these mere mortals cross paths with a warring fairy King and Queen, chaos reigns in the natural world. The lines between reality and illusion start to blur and no-one but mischievous Puck knows what is true and what is magic.
Let Shakespeare’s captivating comedy transport you from deepest midwinter to the most magical of midsummer nights. Director Eleanor Rhode (King John) returns to the RSC with a Dream that is both epic and intimate, and completely full of wonder.
Director Eleanor Rhode | Illusion Director and Designer John Bulleid | Video Nina Dunn
Previews Jan 30th - 12th Feb
Press performance 13th Feb
Performances Mon/Tues - Sat with Matinees Thurs and Sat
For the second concert of their residency at The Mount Without Crypt, Sound World return with their trademark tour around the boundaries between classical, contemporary, jazz and blues. Featuring:
Harriet Riley & Alex Garden Vellichor
Sadie Harrison Bell Music for St Casimir
Thomas Adès Court Studies
Vivian Chua Dance of the Wind and Sea
Klezmer Dance
Claude Vivier Piéce pour violon and clarinette
Charlotte Harding HOLO
Andy Keenan for Boola
Evelyn Glennie The Grace of Silence
Graham Fitkin Sinew
Bar opens from 6 to 10pm
Sound World are:
George Blakesley - clarinet
George Owen - cello
Harriet Riley - percussion
Ricardo Brown Roger - violin
Alex Wilson - piano
Tickets: £15 or £10 (concessions) + Eventbrite commission. OR
Check out our Concert Club to get FREE TICKETS (worth up to £120!) to concerts by LSO and Manchester Collective concerts at St. George's and Bristol Beacon and all Sound World concerts. Members also receive bespoke monthly listening lists, background info on composers and their music, online exclusives, the chance to vote on - or suggest - future repertoire and much more.
Just scan the QR code below for more info…
A gig held at Bristol Beacon on Friday 12th January. The event starts at 20:00and has been tagged in the contemporary classical, experimental, jazz, spoken word and poetry categories.
Tickets: https://bristolbeacon.org/whats-on/comfort-in-chaos/
Comfort in Chaos celebrates the 40th anniversary of the vital Bristol charity 1625 Independent People. This specially commissioned piece is an uncategorisable mash-up of jazz, poetry, contemporary classical and experimental music, with even a hint of the Beatles in its final moments!
Composed and led by leading Bristol musicians Harriet Riley (Paraorchestra, Sonder, Will Gregory Moog Ensemble) and Pete Judge (Get the Blessing, Three Cane Whale) – it fuses jazz, classical and spoken word, with ideas drawn from the work and experience of two young 1625IP poets, Jj and Danni.
They combine with a powerhouse of Bristol’s contemporary music scene, including Georgie Ward (Dua Lipa), Matt Brown (formerly with Run Logan Run, Matt Brown’s 6161), Stevie Toddler (Rum Buffalo), Caelia Luniss (Edward Penfold) and Jo Silverston (The Unthanks, Spindle)
Comfort in Chaos is inspired by, and raises awareness of the charity ‘1625 Independent People’, which supports young people who are homeless, leaving care or at risk of homelessness. With over 40 years of experience 1625 provides safe, stable accommodation, practical and emotional support to ensure vulnerable young people can build healthy relationships, develop independent living abilities and can access jobs and training. 1625 nurtures the existing skills, strengths, and talent in young people, to show them they can believe in themselves, and that they have the capabilities to thrive as independent adults.
Please note: This show has references to mental health issues, which some may find triggering.
Graphic design by Paul Hooper
Presented by Nick Hooper
Unreserved seating show
Age: 16+
Doors: 19.30
Start time: 20.00
All timings are approximate and subject to change
Ticket options
Full price ticket – £18.53 incl. booking fee
Full price ticket including £5 donation to 1625 – £23.98 incl. booking fee
Concession ticket – £13.08 incl. booking fee
Concession ticket including £5 donation to 1625 – £18.53 incl. booking fee
A gig held at St Anne's Church, Greenbank on Saturday 16th December. The event starts at 13:00 and has been tagged in the contemporary jazz, contemporary classical, folk, folk-pop and singer-songwriter categories.
Cuculi Presents… the winter gathering we've all been craving. To all the introverts, the freelancers working alone in cold warehouse studios, the people whose idea of a festive experience is crying quietly to poignant folk songs and then bopping to wonky percussion polyrhythms and obscure disco tunes - we've got just the space for you. On 16th December, join us for a whole day and evening at St Anne's Church (Greenbank) to celebrate the Cuculi community - not just artists, but all of you who show up every time and give your deep attention to independent Bristol musicians. We love you!
Tryani Collective, Amy May Ellis, Roland George Harrad, Ruby Geddes, Tom Calladine & Pearl Love will be performing throughout the day in the main church space. In the hall next door, there'll be a space to chat and hang out, plus record spinning from DJ Medusa, festive craft workshops, food and mulled drinks.
Not forgetting the all important secret santa! If you want to participate please bring a mystery gift to be added to the stocking (ideally homemade/second hand… you know the vibe). If you feel able, maybe even bring a spare gift for those who inevitably forget.
General tickets are £15. If you can afford a bit more, please consider buying a £20 ticket, which helps us to provide some £10 for those who can afford a bit less, making the event more accessible for everyone whilst the musicians and crew still take home a wage.
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TRYANI COLLECTIVE
"Precision tightness with danceable grooves while always being very much its own thing" - Bristol 24/7
Tryani Collective are a Bristol-based ensemble performing original compositions that interweave multi-part vocal arrangements with explosive percussion, synthesisers and drums. It's powerhouse of exceptional musicianship, made up of some of the best and well known singers/instrumentalists Bristol has to offer, including Harriet Riley (Spindle Ensemble, Zoobers), Stevie Toddler (Stevie Toddler, Nuala Honan) Roland Harrad, (Roland Harrad) Heather Johnson (Safrela) and Jon Clark (Boci, Salsa Orchestra), Danny Tryani (Stevie Toddler), Beth Roberts (Hands of the Heron, House of Figs, Hedera) and Rowan Elliott (Solana, Tamsin Elliott Trio).
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AMY MAY ELLIS
"A DREAMLIKE EDGE” – UNCUT
“A TALENT THAT ONLY A FEW HOLD” – LOCK MAGAZINE
“NEVER FAILS TO IMPRESS” – BBC INTRODUCING
Yorkshire-born and now based in Bristol, songwriter Amy May Ellis has been gathering momentum in the UK for years, and recently celebrated the release of her debut album 'Over Ling & Bell' (Lost Map). Her songs embody a bewitching simplicity and subtlety, underpinned by a sense of undaunted resolve that makes her a musical force to be reckoned with.
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PEARL LOVE, RUBY GEDDES & TOM CALLADINE
Three of our favourite songwriters make a circle of songs and harmonies. Pearl, Ruby & Tom are each due to release music on Cuculi Records over the next few months but so we've invited them all to play together to reflect the friendships and cross-collaborations between them.
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ROLAND GEORGE HARRAD
Roland George Harrad is a singer-songwriter from Bristol who has been writing songs for sixteen years. Drawing on influences from jazz, folk, soul & theatre modalities, Roland's lyrics are written with piercing vulnerability, but delivered with refreshing humour and impeccable vocal dexterity.
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CUCULI RECORDS
Cuculi Records is a DIY label based in Bristol, run by a woman-led collective of musicians and songwriters with the aim of helping grassroots artists navigate the complexities of releasing music independently. We work with bedroom composers, folk singers, ambient explorers and unusual ensembles, often creating beautiful sounds that don't have a name yet.
Cuculi Presents is an opportunity to hear both local & national artists live in listening spaces around Bristol.
@cuculirecords
cuculirecords.com/events
This winter, Christmas favourite How the Grinch Stole Christmasis to be shown live in concert for the first time in the UK.
With a full orchestra performing its soundtrack live to screen, the show will head to Hammersmith Apollo on Sunday 10th December.
Released over 20 years ago, yet still a Christmas classic, the story follows the Grinch who lives in solitude outside of the village of Whoville. He holds an extreme dislike for the townsfolk and Christmas so much that he sets out to terrorize all of the festivities that go with it.
Why is the Grinch such a grouch? No one seems to know, until little Cindy Lou Who takes matters into her own hands and turns both Whoville and the Grinch’s world upside down.
How the Grinch Stole Christmas is a celebration of the holiday spirit no home should be without! Discover the magic of the mean one this holiday season, live in concert.
A gig held at The Jam Jar on Saturday 9th December. The event starts at 19:00 and has been tagged in the art pop, trip hop and jazz categories.
Stevie Toddler w/ Dr Chonk & The Nature Injection
09/12/23
7pm-10pm
The Jam Jar
£7/£9/£11/£12
After a year off of promoting shows we're delighted to be back with an amazing opener. We've got Stevie Toddler playing her first show in Bristol for quite some time. Also, in support we'll be hosting Dr Chonk & The Nature Injection for one of their first ever performances.
Stevie Toddler has a new album coming out soon so expect new music as well as some great writing from the first album as well. Here's what someone had to say about it. The new music builds on the jazz, pop, electronic and classical influences of Bristol-based artist Stevie’s first album “Such Big Ideas” – which received support from the likes of BBC 6 Music’s Gilles Peterson, Guy Garvey, Deb Grant, Tom Robinson, Huw Stephens; Jamie Cullum of BBC Radio 2; along with BBC Radio Bristol, John Kennedy at Radio X; Reform Radio, Soho Radio, Slack City, as well as further airplay worldwide.
Dr Chonk & The Nature Injections feature some of your favourite musicians from various acts such as Cousin Kula, Snazzback and many more. A mixture of sounds coming to take you on a journey.
This winter, Christmas favourite How the Grinch Stole Christmasis to be shown live in concert for the first time in the UK.
With a full orchestra performing its soundtrack live to screen, the show will head to Birmingham Symphony Hall on Saturday 9th December.
Released over 20 years ago, yet still a Christmas classic, the story follows the Grinch who lives in solitude outside of the village of Whoville. He holds an extreme dislike for the townsfolk and Christmas so much that he sets out to terrorize all of the festivities that go with it.
Why is the Grinch such a grouch? No one seems to know, until little Cindy Lou Who takes matters into her own hands and turns both Whoville and the Grinch’s world upside down.
How the Grinch Stole Christmas is a celebration of the holiday spirit no home should be without! Discover the magic of the mean one this holiday season, live in concert.
Weekly jam session Hip-Hop/Jazz/Funk Jam at Strange Brew - House Band 8pm then opening up to everyone and then house band finishing the night off around 11.30pm.
Witness a space reborn as sound and light collide in spectacular fashion in Trip the Light Fantastic.
Produced by Paraorchestra in collaboration with Surgeons Girl, Charles Hazlewood, and Limbic Cinema, this extraordinary experience has been specially commissioned by Bristol Beacon to reconnect us to this newly-transformed space.
Two of Bristol’s own – the pioneering Paraorchestra and celebrated electronic composer Surgeons Girl – create electro-orchestral alchemy with a dynamic visual response from AV experts at Limbic Cinema for this landmark opening night.
This concert experience will be opened by a new commission from Paraorchestra composer Xia Leon Sloane, Prelude to a Beginning, a sensual and spatial work which will showcase the full extent of Bristol Beacon’s new astonishing natural acoustic.
Join us and celebrate this radiant new beginning together.
Loneliness is an epidemic; it increases with age and disproportionally affects men.
Our new chamber opera, Shoulder to Shoulder, explores the issue and has been developed through our partnership with Men’s Sheds Cymru.
Shoulder to Shoulder is a powerful, uplifting exploration and often very funny story of men overcoming isolation through the friendships they’ve made in Men’s Sheds Cymru. The organisation is part of a worldwide movement founded in Australia that aims to alleviate social isolation, predominantly among older men, through social activities.
Shoulder to Shoulder’s ensemble featured mostly Wales-based professional singers and musicians, many of whom sing and play in major opera houses, companies, and orchestras, including the Royal Opera House, Covent Garden; Glyndebourne Festival Opera; Welsh National Opera; English National Opera; Opera North; Scottish Opera, and the London Philharmonic Orchestra.
Soprano Jess Robinson who plays the role of Gwen, will represent Wales in the Cardiff Singer of the World 2023
Librettist Brendan Wheatley rooted Shoulder to Shoulder in the stories of ‘Shedders’, which he gathered through interviews in 2020 – 2021, which included the lockdowns in Wales. Arts Council Wales’ Cultural Recovery Fund supported this period of the opera’s development.
By listening to stories and sharing the laughter of ‘Shedders’, Brendan crafted the story and libretto of Shoulder to Shoulder. The composer and clarinettist Lenny Sayers, whose music has been broadcast on BBC Radio 3, BBC Radio Wales, BBC Radio Cymru and BBC Radio Scotland, wrote the score.
The development of Shoulder to Shoulder brought the activity of singing to some Sheds, often for the very first time. Six community choirs comprising of ‘Shedders’, joined by family, friends and local choral singers, will sing on stage in their hometowns alongside the ensemble of professional singers and musicians, adding a powerful dimension to the performance.
The development of Shoulder to Shoulder with Men’s Sheds Cymru.
We developed Shoulder to Shoulder during 2020 – 2021 with Men’s Sheds Cymru.
The unique organisation supports older men experiencing loneliness by creating warm and welcoming spaces where they can learn new skills, build friendships, and make new beginnings. Besides being socially isolated, some ‘Shedders’ have faced challenging life events such as physical and mental illness, bereavement, bankruptcy, and redundancy.
During lockdown, via Zoom, our Artistic Director Brendan Wheatley talks about Swansea City Opera’s aim of making opera accessible to everyone and the importance of the partnership with Men’s Sheds Cymru.
Supported by Arts Council Wales, the National Lottery Community Fund, Tŷ Cerdd, The Garfield Weston Foundation, ACW Night Out, the Friends of Swansea City Opera and Local giving ‘Magic Little Grants’.
Artwork by Sean Slater. Photographs by Guy Harrop
Click on our cast members to find out more
Loneliness is an epidemic; it increases with age and disproportionally affects men.
Our new chamber opera, Shoulder to Shoulder, explores the issue and has been developed through our partnership with Men’s Sheds Cymru.
Shoulder to Shoulder is a powerful, uplifting exploration and often very funny story of men overcoming isolation through the friendships they’ve made in Men’s Sheds Cymru. The organisation is part of a worldwide movement founded in Australia that aims to alleviate social isolation, predominantly among older men, through social activities.
Shoulder to Shoulder’s ensemble featured mostly Wales-based professional singers and musicians, many of whom sing and play in major opera houses, companies, and orchestras, including the Royal Opera House, Covent Garden; Glyndebourne Festival Opera; Welsh National Opera; English National Opera; Opera North; Scottish Opera, and the London Philharmonic Orchestra.
Soprano Jess Robinson who plays the role of Gwen, will represent Wales in the Cardiff Singer of the World 2023
Librettist Brendan Wheatley rooted Shoulder to Shoulder in the stories of ‘Shedders’, which he gathered through interviews in 2020 – 2021, which included the lockdowns in Wales. Arts Council Wales’ Cultural Recovery Fund supported this period of the opera’s development.
By listening to stories and sharing the laughter of ‘Shedders’, Brendan crafted the story and libretto of Shoulder to Shoulder. The composer and clarinettist Lenny Sayers, whose music has been broadcast on BBC Radio 3, BBC Radio Wales, BBC Radio Cymru and BBC Radio Scotland, wrote the score.
The development of Shoulder to Shoulder brought the activity of singing to some Sheds, often for the very first time. Six community choirs comprising of ‘Shedders’, joined by family, friends and local choral singers, will sing on stage in their hometowns alongside the ensemble of professional singers and musicians, adding a powerful dimension to the performance.
The development of Shoulder to Shoulder with Men’s Sheds Cymru.
We developed Shoulder to Shoulder during 2020 – 2021 with Men’s Sheds Cymru.
The unique organisation supports older men experiencing loneliness by creating warm and welcoming spaces where they can learn new skills, build friendships, and make new beginnings. Besides being socially isolated, some ‘Shedders’ have faced challenging life events such as physical and mental illness, bereavement, bankruptcy, and redundancy.
During lockdown, via Zoom, our Artistic Director Brendan Wheatley talks about Swansea City Opera’s aim of making opera accessible to everyone and the importance of the partnership with Men’s Sheds Cymru.
Supported by Arts Council Wales, the National Lottery Community Fund, Tŷ Cerdd, The Garfield Weston Foundation, ACW Night Out, the Friends of Swansea City Opera and Local giving ‘Magic Little Grants’.
Artwork by Sean Slater. Photographs by Guy Harrop
Click on our cast members to find out more
Loneliness is an epidemic; it increases with age and disproportionally affects men.
Our new chamber opera, Shoulder to Shoulder, explores the issue and has been developed through our partnership with Men’s Sheds Cymru.
Shoulder to Shoulder is a powerful, uplifting exploration and often very funny story of men overcoming isolation through the friendships they’ve made in Men’s Sheds Cymru. The organisation is part of a worldwide movement founded in Australia that aims to alleviate social isolation, predominantly among older men, through social activities.
Shoulder to Shoulder’s ensemble featured mostly Wales-based professional singers and musicians, many of whom sing and play in major opera houses, companies, and orchestras, including the Royal Opera House, Covent Garden; Glyndebourne Festival Opera; Welsh National Opera; English National Opera; Opera North; Scottish Opera, and the London Philharmonic Orchestra.
Soprano Jess Robinson who plays the role of Gwen, will represent Wales in the Cardiff Singer of the World 2023
Librettist Brendan Wheatley rooted Shoulder to Shoulder in the stories of ‘Shedders’, which he gathered through interviews in 2020 – 2021, which included the lockdowns in Wales. Arts Council Wales’ Cultural Recovery Fund supported this period of the opera’s development.
By listening to stories and sharing the laughter of ‘Shedders’, Brendan crafted the story and libretto of Shoulder to Shoulder. The composer and clarinettist Lenny Sayers, whose music has been broadcast on BBC Radio 3, BBC Radio Wales, BBC Radio Cymru and BBC Radio Scotland, wrote the score.
The development of Shoulder to Shoulder brought the activity of singing to some Sheds, often for the very first time. Six community choirs comprising of ‘Shedders’, joined by family, friends and local choral singers, will sing on stage in their hometowns alongside the ensemble of professional singers and musicians, adding a powerful dimension to the performance.
The development of Shoulder to Shoulder with Men’s Sheds Cymru.
We developed Shoulder to Shoulder during 2020 – 2021 with Men’s Sheds Cymru.
The unique organisation supports older men experiencing loneliness by creating warm and welcoming spaces where they can learn new skills, build friendships, and make new beginnings. Besides being socially isolated, some ‘Shedders’ have faced challenging life events such as physical and mental illness, bereavement, bankruptcy, and redundancy.
During lockdown, via Zoom, our Artistic Director Brendan Wheatley talks about Swansea City Opera’s aim of making opera accessible to everyone and the importance of the partnership with Men’s Sheds Cymru.
Supported by Arts Council Wales, the National Lottery Community Fund, Tŷ Cerdd, The Garfield Weston Foundation, ACW Night Out, the Friends of Swansea City Opera and Local giving ‘Magic Little Grants’.
Artwork by Sean Slater. Photographs by Guy Harrop
Click on our cast members to find out more
Loneliness is an epidemic; it increases with age and disproportionally affects men.
Our new chamber opera, Shoulder to Shoulder, explores the issue and has been developed through our partnership with Men’s Sheds Cymru.
Shoulder to Shoulder is a powerful, uplifting exploration and often very funny story of men overcoming isolation through the friendships they’ve made in Men’s Sheds Cymru. The organisation is part of a worldwide movement founded in Australia that aims to alleviate social isolation, predominantly among older men, through social activities.
Shoulder to Shoulder’s ensemble featured mostly Wales-based professional singers and musicians, many of whom sing and play in major opera houses, companies, and orchestras, including the Royal Opera House, Covent Garden; Glyndebourne Festival Opera; Welsh National Opera; English National Opera; Opera North; Scottish Opera, and the London Philharmonic Orchestra.
Soprano Jess Robinson who plays the role of Gwen, will represent Wales in the Cardiff Singer of the World 2023
Librettist Brendan Wheatley rooted Shoulder to Shoulder in the stories of ‘Shedders’, which he gathered through interviews in 2020 – 2021, which included the lockdowns in Wales. Arts Council Wales’ Cultural Recovery Fund supported this period of the opera’s development.
By listening to stories and sharing the laughter of ‘Shedders’, Brendan crafted the story and libretto of Shoulder to Shoulder. The composer and clarinettist Lenny Sayers, whose music has been broadcast on BBC Radio 3, BBC Radio Wales, BBC Radio Cymru and BBC Radio Scotland, wrote the score.
The development of Shoulder to Shoulder brought the activity of singing to some Sheds, often for the very first time. Six community choirs comprising of ‘Shedders’, joined by family, friends and local choral singers, will sing on stage in their hometowns alongside the ensemble of professional singers and musicians, adding a powerful dimension to the performance.
The development of Shoulder to Shoulder with Men’s Sheds Cymru.
We developed Shoulder to Shoulder during 2020 – 2021 with Men’s Sheds Cymru.
The unique organisation supports older men experiencing loneliness by creating warm and welcoming spaces where they can learn new skills, build friendships, and make new beginnings. Besides being socially isolated, some ‘Shedders’ have faced challenging life events such as physical and mental illness, bereavement, bankruptcy, and redundancy.
During lockdown, via Zoom, our Artistic Director Brendan Wheatley talks about Swansea City Opera’s aim of making opera accessible to everyone and the importance of the partnership with Men’s Sheds Cymru.
Supported by Arts Council Wales, the National Lottery Community Fund, Tŷ Cerdd, The Garfield Weston Foundation, ACW Night Out, the Friends of Swansea City Opera and Local giving ‘Magic Little Grants’.
Artwork by Sean Slater. Photographs by Guy Harrop
Click on our cast members to find out more
Loneliness is an epidemic; it increases with age and disproportionally affects men.
Our new chamber opera, Shoulder to Shoulder, explores the issue and has been developed through our partnership with Men’s Sheds Cymru.
Shoulder to Shoulder is a powerful, uplifting exploration and often very funny story of men overcoming isolation through the friendships they’ve made in Men’s Sheds Cymru. The organisation is part of a worldwide movement founded in Australia that aims to alleviate social isolation, predominantly among older men, through social activities.
Shoulder to Shoulder’s ensemble featured mostly Wales-based professional singers and musicians, many of whom sing and play in major opera houses, companies, and orchestras, including the Royal Opera House, Covent Garden; Glyndebourne Festival Opera; Welsh National Opera; English National Opera; Opera North; Scottish Opera, and the London Philharmonic Orchestra.
Soprano Jess Robinson who plays the role of Gwen, will represent Wales in the Cardiff Singer of the World 2023
Librettist Brendan Wheatley rooted Shoulder to Shoulder in the stories of ‘Shedders’, which he gathered through interviews in 2020 – 2021, which included the lockdowns in Wales. Arts Council Wales’ Cultural Recovery Fund supported this period of the opera’s development.
By listening to stories and sharing the laughter of ‘Shedders’, Brendan crafted the story and libretto of Shoulder to Shoulder. The composer and clarinettist Lenny Sayers, whose music has been broadcast on BBC Radio 3, BBC Radio Wales, BBC Radio Cymru and BBC Radio Scotland, wrote the score.
The development of Shoulder to Shoulder brought the activity of singing to some Sheds, often for the very first time. Six community choirs comprising of ‘Shedders’, joined by family, friends and local choral singers, will sing on stage in their hometowns alongside the ensemble of professional singers and musicians, adding a powerful dimension to the performance.
The development of Shoulder to Shoulder with Men’s Sheds Cymru.
We developed Shoulder to Shoulder during 2020 – 2021 with Men’s Sheds Cymru.
The unique organisation supports older men experiencing loneliness by creating warm and welcoming spaces where they can learn new skills, build friendships, and make new beginnings. Besides being socially isolated, some ‘Shedders’ have faced challenging life events such as physical and mental illness, bereavement, bankruptcy, and redundancy.
During lockdown, via Zoom, our Artistic Director Brendan Wheatley talks about Swansea City Opera’s aim of making opera accessible to everyone and the importance of the partnership with Men’s Sheds Cymru.
Supported by Arts Council Wales, the National Lottery Community Fund, Tŷ Cerdd, The Garfield Weston Foundation, ACW Night Out, the Friends of Swansea City Opera and Local giving ‘Magic Little Grants’.
Artwork by Sean Slater. Photographs by Guy Harrop
Click on our cast members to find out more
Loneliness is an epidemic; it increases with age and disproportionally affects men.
Our new chamber opera, Shoulder to Shoulder, explores the issue and has been developed through our partnership with Men’s Sheds Cymru.
Shoulder to Shoulder is a powerful, uplifting exploration and often very funny story of men overcoming isolation through the friendships they’ve made in Men’s Sheds Cymru. The organisation is part of a worldwide movement founded in Australia that aims to alleviate social isolation, predominantly among older men, through social activities.
Shoulder to Shoulder’s ensemble featured mostly Wales-based professional singers and musicians, many of whom sing and play in major opera houses, companies, and orchestras, including the Royal Opera House, Covent Garden; Glyndebourne Festival Opera; Welsh National Opera; English National Opera; Opera North; Scottish Opera, and the London Philharmonic Orchestra.
Soprano Jess Robinson who plays the role of Gwen, will represent Wales in the Cardiff Singer of the World 2023
Librettist Brendan Wheatley rooted Shoulder to Shoulder in the stories of ‘Shedders’, which he gathered through interviews in 2020 – 2021, which included the lockdowns in Wales. Arts Council Wales’ Cultural Recovery Fund supported this period of the opera’s development.
By listening to stories and sharing the laughter of ‘Shedders’, Brendan crafted the story and libretto of Shoulder to Shoulder. The composer and clarinettist Lenny Sayers, whose music has been broadcast on BBC Radio 3, BBC Radio Wales, BBC Radio Cymru and BBC Radio Scotland, wrote the score.
The development of Shoulder to Shoulder brought the activity of singing to some Sheds, often for the very first time. Six community choirs comprising of ‘Shedders’, joined by family, friends and local choral singers, will sing on stage in their hometowns alongside the ensemble of professional singers and musicians, adding a powerful dimension to the performance.
The development of Shoulder to Shoulder with Men’s Sheds Cymru.
We developed Shoulder to Shoulder during 2020 – 2021 with Men’s Sheds Cymru.
The unique organisation supports older men experiencing loneliness by creating warm and welcoming spaces where they can learn new skills, build friendships, and make new beginnings. Besides being socially isolated, some ‘Shedders’ have faced challenging life events such as physical and mental illness, bereavement, bankruptcy, and redundancy.
During lockdown, via Zoom, our Artistic Director Brendan Wheatley talks about Swansea City Opera’s aim of making opera accessible to everyone and the importance of the partnership with Men’s Sheds Cymru.
Supported by Arts Council Wales, the National Lottery Community Fund, Tŷ Cerdd, The Garfield Weston Foundation, ACW Night Out, the Friends of Swansea City Opera and Local giving ‘Magic Little Grants’.
Artwork by Sean Slater. Photographs by Guy Harrop
Click on our cast members to find out more
Loneliness is an epidemic; it increases with age and disproportionally affects men.
Our new chamber opera, Shoulder to Shoulder, explores the issue and has been developed through our partnership with Men’s Sheds Cymru.
Shoulder to Shoulder is a powerful, uplifting exploration and often very funny story of men overcoming isolation through the friendships they’ve made in Men’s Sheds Cymru. The organisation is part of a worldwide movement founded in Australia that aims to alleviate social isolation, predominantly among older men, through social activities.
Shoulder to Shoulder’s ensemble featured mostly Wales-based professional singers and musicians, many of whom sing and play in major opera houses, companies, and orchestras, including the Royal Opera House, Covent Garden; Glyndebourne Festival Opera; Welsh National Opera; English National Opera; Opera North; Scottish Opera, and the London Philharmonic Orchestra.
Soprano Jess Robinson who plays the role of Gwen, will represent Wales in the Cardiff Singer of the World 2023
Librettist Brendan Wheatley rooted Shoulder to Shoulder in the stories of ‘Shedders’, which he gathered through interviews in 2020 – 2021, which included the lockdowns in Wales. Arts Council Wales’ Cultural Recovery Fund supported this period of the opera’s development.
By listening to stories and sharing the laughter of ‘Shedders’, Brendan crafted the story and libretto of Shoulder to Shoulder. The composer and clarinettist Lenny Sayers, whose music has been broadcast on BBC Radio 3, BBC Radio Wales, BBC Radio Cymru and BBC Radio Scotland, wrote the score.
The development of Shoulder to Shoulder brought the activity of singing to some Sheds, often for the very first time. Six community choirs comprising of ‘Shedders’, joined by family, friends and local choral singers, will sing on stage in their hometowns alongside the ensemble of professional singers and musicians, adding a powerful dimension to the performance.
The development of Shoulder to Shoulder with Men’s Sheds Cymru.
We developed Shoulder to Shoulder during 2020 – 2021 with Men’s Sheds Cymru.
The unique organisation supports older men experiencing loneliness by creating warm and welcoming spaces where they can learn new skills, build friendships, and make new beginnings. Besides being socially isolated, some ‘Shedders’ have faced challenging life events such as physical and mental illness, bereavement, bankruptcy, and redundancy.
During lockdown, via Zoom, our Artistic Director Brendan Wheatley talks about Swansea City Opera’s aim of making opera accessible to everyone and the importance of the partnership with Men’s Sheds Cymru.
Supported by Arts Council Wales, the National Lottery Community Fund, Tŷ Cerdd, The Garfield Weston Foundation, ACW Night Out, the Friends of Swansea City Opera and Local giving ‘Magic Little Grants’.
Artwork by Sean Slater. Photographs by Guy Harrop
Click on our cast members to find out more
From Bristol to the world, the Spindle Ensemble record from the very selective Hidden Notes, in a language that combines the pleasure of fresh timbres with the haunted mix between genres. Classic, contemporary, avant-garde, low-fi, improvisational and unpredictable, the music of the Spindle Ensemble is the trip they want and so are we.
Our fantastic percussionist Harriet Riley will show you around her marimba, various drums, vibraphone and many more instruments! Lots of different sounds to hear and instruments to see
The first in a series of free lunchtime concerts, please drop into the Michael Tippett Centre for an inspiring session for our visiting musicians.
Harriet Riley & Alex Garden’s music presents a novel, hypnotic dialogue between a highly unusual pairing of instruments - fiddle and vibraphone. Each piece they perform is original and inspired by interesting single-word track titles with definitions given alongside to guide the listener’s attention. Their music takes in flavours from trad folk, minimalism and jazz and they regularly collaborate with Stevie Toddler on double bass - adding texture and depth to their sound.
The duo regularly works with Live Music Now - devoting time to making music more accessible and collaborative in spaces where live music is rare - such as SEN schools and care homes. Their performances and workshops are fun, dynamic, inclusive and often involve elements of storytelling and group participation.
'A stunning mix of dreamlike atmospheres and mesmerising energy, a bridge between different genres and one of the most adventurous albums in recent years.’ (Nominated - Album of the Year 2020) Bright Young Folk
‘Wonderfully gentle...really beautiful’ BBC Radio 3 ‘
For the first concert of their residency at the atmospheric Mount Without crypt, Sound World zigzag across the boundaries of music from classical to jazz, to blues and back again in an exciting journey through the wilds of modern music. With new work from Evelyn Glennie & Sally Beamish, virtuoso solos by Jörg Widmann & Coleridge-Taylor Perkinson and a thumping, rarely heard early piece from Iannis Xenakis, you can expect a stirring, uplifting evening of great music.
Plain Blue/s : Coleridge-Taylor Perkinson
Perpetual Motion : Coleridge-Taylor Perkinson
April (world première) : Sally Beamish
Hombre D’Aout : Eric Sammut
The Neglected Child : Judith Bingham
Klezmer Dance
Dhipli Zyia : Iannis Xenakis
Fantasy : Jörg Widmann
The Grace of Silence (world première) : Evelyn Glennie
Dancing With the Shadow : Eleanor Alberga
2 Coyotes: 1 : Magnus Lindberg
Duo : Jessie Montgomery
Stung : Julian Leeks
Sound World are:
George Blakesley - clarinet
George Owen - cello
Harriet Riley - percussion
Ricardo Brown Roger - violin
Alex Wilson - piano
Tickets: £15 or £10 (concessions) + Eventbrite commission. OR
Check out our Concert Club to get FREE TICKETS (worth up to £120!) to Sound World events and concerts at St. George's and Bristol Beacon. Members also receive bespoke monthly listening lists, background info on composers and their music, online exclusives, the chance to vote on - or suggest - future repertoire and much more.
Just scan the QR code below for more info…
Zoobers is the brainchild of Dorian Childs-Prophet, Chris Langton (members of Gilles Peterson favourites Dundundun and Snazzback respectively), and Harriet Riley (Paraorchestra).
The trio of keyboards, drum kit and vibraphone create a unique sound with layers of depth, taking influence from electronica, jazz and classical music. They meld together Reich-esque evolving patterns, over intricate yet pulsating rhythms. Their rich harmonic electronica contains shades of Messiaen and Ricardo Villalobos amongst improvisation and sharp angles.
Debut single “Long House” fuses breakbeat and contemporary electronica with a UK jazz sound, inspiring imagery of Norwegian lakes and the aching stretches of Fjordic shoreline.
Zoobers’ monthly release campaign culminates in slots Shambala and Bristol Harbour Fest. Already playlisted by Tina Edwards for the British Airways in-flight UK Jazz playlist, the bands’ other projects have featured in Spotify playlists: Global Groove, Jazz UK, Fresh Finds Jazz, Jazz-Funk, Acid Jazz, Classical X and Electronic X.
Included in their monthly release schedule supporting music video featuring collaboration with visual artist Sarah James and dancer Kiel Clarke-Davis.
“Bad Bad Not Good, high on sugar” Tina Edwards
“It was instant impact stuff, as if Milt Jackson had taken a holiday in 90s Ibiza, quickly followed by some 606-style block rocking over broken beats drumming and looping vibraphone minimalism.” Tony Benjamin (Bristol 24/7)
“6 hands, performing the work of 12. Zoobers live sound is huge, I can't wait to see where this goes.” The Jam Jar Bristol
Zoobers (@zoobersmuzak) • Instagram photos and videos
https://www.facebook.com/Zoobersmuzak/
Doors 7pm / Music from 8pm / 10pm curfew
At long last we are celebrating the debut EP of Zoobers.
Their sound draws influence from Electronica, Jazz, & Classical styles. Weaving together to form catchy melodies, pulsating rhythms, & damn heavy crescendos. The result is a huge sound & wild live show.
The Trio is comprised of Chris Langton, Dorian Childs Prophet, & Harriet Riley. Each member lauded for their work elsewhere (Snazzback, Dundundun & Paraorchestra respectively) staunchly refuse to rest on their laurels.
Grab your ticket now.
“Bad Bad Not Good, high on sugar”
"IDM Meets Jazz"
At long last we are celebrating the debut EP of Zoobers.
Their sound draws influence from Electronica, Jazz, & Classical styles. Weaving together to form catchy melodies, pulsating rhythms, & damn heavy crescendos. The result is a huge sound & wild live show.
The Trio is comprised of Chris Langton, Dorian Childs Prophet, & Harriet Riley. Each member lauded for their work elsewhere (Snazzback, Dundundun & Paraorchestra respectively) staunchly refuse to rest on their laurels.
This will be a great opportunity to catch the band for the hometown leg of their EP launch tour.
Grab your ticket now.
Support from JusJim and DJ set from Surgeons Girl
