RNCM Session Orchestra: Original Artists Edition at RNCM
Johnny James, Managing EditorJoin the RNCM on 18 June and hear the next generation of popular artists from the College perform their original music accompanied by the RNCM Session Orchestra.
From Porij to The Larkins to Lucy Deakin, so many great artists on the Manchester scene cut their teeth in the RNCM’s Popular Music department. And while many have now graduated to larger stages, they once performed in showcases such as this one, where you can catch a glimpse of those next in line to become professional artists in their own right.
Four of the department’s shining stars will perform with the backing of a full orchestra, bringing a sense of grandeur to their homespun songs. First up it’s Nyah Grace, who already has an audience on both sides of the Atlantic. An old soul with a timeless sound, Nyah’s vocal delivery evokes the great songstresses of eras long gone, while her songwriting is influenced by the likes of D’Angelo, Billie Holiday and Norah Jones. Ruby Joyce, meanwhile, serves up R&B flavoured pop, packed with infectious melodies and existential lyrics. Her colourful track ‘Divide’, penned after visiting the ancient walled city of Pingyao in China is a particularly great one. Have a listen below.
OMA bring something very different. An outpouring of luscious dream pop, their sound is an eccentric amalgamation of everything they love: punchy analogue drum machines, characterful production and bold, manipulated vocals. Another about-turn comes in the form of Nadeem Shakir, who’ll be bringing a big old slice of old school, euphoric pop to the RNCM stage, interspersed with the odd piano ballad – the kind that worms its way into your head and refuses to budge.
There’s nothing like catching a great artist perform live while they’re still in their formative years. Here’s your opportunity to catch four of them as part of the RNCM Summer Season.