Katherine Jenkins / Katherine Jenkins Forum / Other Artists and Bands

Hayley Westenra - Battle Of Britain 70th Anniversary

tonym — Wed, 07 Jul 2010 18:48:01 GMT

Hi all

To commemorate the 70^th anniversary of the Battle Of Britain, Hayley Westenra and the Central Band of the RAF have begun a short UK Tour(see dates below) presenting the most popular music from the war years era, it also being a fund-raising concert for the Air Force Benevolent Fund.

The tour opened in Eastbourne last night and we were privileged to have in attendance for the evening, our very own Dame Vera Lynn.

Though I have 4 of Hayley’s studio albums, it was the first time I had seen her perform live and it certainly will not be the last.

Hayley performed :-

White Cliffs Of Dover

A Nightingale Sang In Berkeley Square

Danny Boy

As Time Goes By

Pokarekare Ana

Abide With Me

We’ll Meet Again

Pick of the list for me was Danny Boy which will stay in my memory for a very very long time, a truly beautiful rendition from Hayley. I don't think there was a dry eye in the house.

The concert included speeches and poems from the era, and a historic narration from Squadron Leader Tom Jones, a relative of Dame Vera.

Music from the RAF band contained renditions of many famous pieces such as:

The Dambusters, 633 Squadron, Battle Of Britain March, Mars from the Planets, a Glen Miller selection, Band Of Brothers and many others.

Though I would say the RAF Band’s music probably appeals more to “us older” folk(perhaps i'm wrong), I strongly recommend it to you all, if only to experience Hayleys beautiful singing.

All in all, a well structured evening to commemorate an event which must never be forgotten and a magnificent tribute to those special few, to whom we all owe such a debt..

Battle of Britain Tour Dates:

Tue 06 Jul 2010 - Eastbourne Congress Theatre
Wed 07 Jul 2010 - Southend Cliffs Pavilion
Wed 28 Jul 2010 - Croydon Fairfield Halls
Sat 31 Jul 2010 - Cardiff St David's Hall
Mon 02 Aug 2010 - Nottingham Royal Concert Hall

I did sneak in a few photos as is my habit.

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Natasha Marsh

GBL70 — Fri, 11 Sep 2009 19:16:16 GMT

Hi all

Natasha will be performing at the Tower Festival.

Friday 18 September

CLASSICAL EXTRAVAGANZA
BRITISH PHILHARMONIC ORCHESTRA
A GALA EVENING OF POPULAR CLASSICS
CONDUCTED BY ANTHONY GABRIELE
WITH NIGEL HUTCHISON (PIANO) AND
NATASHA MARSH (SOPRANO)

The British Philharmonic Orchestra is widely regarded as one of the UK’s most exciting, diverse and exhilarating orchestras and we are pleased to announced the final programme for their ‘Classical Extravaganza’ on Friday 18 September. Conducted by Anthony Gabrielle, and starring Nigel Hutchison and Natasha Marsh, the night will feature:

Copland		Fanfare for the common man

Rossini		William Tell Overture

Grieg		Piano Concerto in A Minor (with Nigel Hutchison)

Walton		Crown Imperial
Handel		Water Music Suite

Johann Strauss		On the beautiful Blue Danube – Waltzes

Verdi		Sempre Libera from La Traviata (with Natasha Marsh)

Gershwin		Summertime from Porgy & Bess (with Natasha Marsh & Nigel Hutchison)

Puccini		Oh! Mio Babbino Caro from Gianni Schicchi (with Natasha Marsh)

Mascagni		Intermezzo from Cavalleria Rusticana

Tchaikovsky		Capriccio Italien

Offenbach		Can Can from Orpheus in the Underworld

Details of the venue and ticket prices can be found at;

http://www.towerfestival.com/per_lpo.html

All the best
Graham

Natasha Marsh - Greenwich 22nd July

tonym — Sat, 24 Jul 2010 14:00:15 GMT

After the blasting my eardrums had received over the last 4-5 days of Air Shows, it was time to get back to the finer things in life and this I achieved on Thursday along with the wonderful company of fellow Forum Friends namely DameJulieihaveapoorlyhandkins and Mum, Sir Jim OBASA and Master Len who I seem to see everywhere I go. Len, I think there’s two of you.:)
The event in question took place in the grounds of the Royal Naval College at Greenwich(A beautiful setting for such an event) and featured the Royal Philharmonic Concert Orchestra, alongside Soprano Natasha Marsh and Tenor Nicky Spence as part of a 4 night Summer Sessions Festival.
It was the usual polished performance from the Philharmonic Orchestra and a splendid performance from Nicky Spence too. You will remember Nicky from Katherine’s Llangollen DVD and I would advise anybody seeing Nicky nowadays that the sight of him in a kilt is not as pleasing to the eye as it was at Llangollen 4 years ago.:w00t: Still a fine Tenor voice though. But to me, the absolute star of the evening was Natasha(with twins) who held the audience spellbound throughout.
Though my preference will always be with the Mezzo voice, I cannot compliment Natasha’s performance highly enough. Highlight for me was her rendition of Song To The Moon which I hadn’t heard Natasha sing before. A stunning performance.
My disappointment was the low attendance at the event(Len and I estimated 500 at best). The general feeling to me suggested poor Event organisation. Seats were only available in the Arena after paying £2 to hire them and there was a shortage of these. There was no Program available to buy and it just seemed to me that there was not a great deal of pre concert advertising. Speaking with a couple of people on duty before the event started, I detected a general feeling of dissatisfaction amongst them.
My one last quibble will be more readily understandable to members of the previous Forum who will remember “my antics” from last year. They will understand my disbelief and horror when I discovered that there was NOT A SINGLE ICE CREAM SELLER at the event. :crazy:Suffice to say we had to make do with just Lager hic.
The evening as a whole though was truly wonderful experience, spent with Super Forum folk and a simply stunning performance from Natasha.
As is the norm with me, there follows a selection of photos from the concert – enjoy

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Placido Domingo at the ROH

PamB — Tue, 06 Apr 2010 23:23:02 GMT

Well, I think I broke the piggy bank today by booking to go and see a performance by Placido Domingo of Simon Boccanegra ( actually I may have to take out another mortgage to pay for the ticket!! :w00t: ) at the Royal Opera House in Covent Garden in July. It has always been an ambition to see him sing there and so I finally took the plunge.

I thought to myself - in for a penny, in for a pound - and also booked to see Angela Gheorghiu in La Traviata as well!! :rolleyes:

In all seriousness, I am really looking forward to some wonderful operatic performances by these amazingly talented artists.

Booking on-line for the ROH is an interesting experience as you are put in a waiting room in a queue (I started off with 1753 in front of me and I got down to about 990 before I had to leave the house) and I reckon it would have taken me about 2 hours plus to get to the front of the queue. When I returned this afternoon, I tried again and still had the same situation ( only 1742 ahead of me this time!!!) but fortunately things moved faster and it only took me about 50mins to get to approx 100th in line.
The tension was really mounting as I shot down to 46 then 24 and I was a bit shaky when it showed that I was 9th!! With the adrenaline really flowing I finally got access to the site to discover that most of the performances were fully booked and only 3 tickets left for the date that I wanted. I dithered for about 2 mins by which time 2 of the tickets had gone so I thought "what the h*ll" just book it and got the very last ticket for that performance!! :ermm: I don't think that I will be telling how much it costs!! I needed to go and lie down in a darkened room to recover. :hehe:

This is the first day that tickets were on sale to the general public starting at 10am and Simon Boccanegra was certainly sold out for all the performances before 2pm.

I am sure that come July it will all have been worth it!!

Pam

Gardar Thor Cortes

Keithmc — Sun, 20 Sep 2009 20:47:40 GMT

Hi there Yoos Forum Buddies,

You MUST have watched Katherine behind the 'Red Button' last weekend at Hyde Park, and hopefully bumped into ( how long does it take to make a cuppa or go the fridge for a Tinny!?) the wonderfull performance of the world class Tenor, Cortes.

I must admit I would never have believed mid 2006 that my 'Classical' journey would commence with a free CD from 'The Daily Mail' - not all bad then! Once I heard the first track on this freebie 'Bailero' (fourth song on Premier) by somebody called KJ then I knew it was something to follow up.(even though I had no idea of Katherine's stunning looks!)

I somehow managed to get a cancelled ticket in row E at the Liverpool Phil in Dec2006 and it was a unforgetable night, as not only KJ(loved the off the shoulder Spanish dress for the Carmen number, yes and the penguin joke!)) but also 'Cortes' who was awesome , especially Nessun Dorma.

Since that very special evening I'm proud to say I've seen Cortes on a number of occasions, from 'the Barbican' in London his first frontline show, where I reckon Reykav/Reykya/Reyca/Recyar, oh bxxxxxks, Iceland must have been deserted, to other places like Douglas,LLandudno, Manchester and Dublin. A couple of these venues I've had the great privelige and pleasure to meet Gardar.

I hope you enjoyed the five songs Cortes performed at Hyde Park. If you happen to be unfamiliar with the music of Cortes then please have a shufty at his first CD aptly named 'Cortes', where you will hear his unique rendition of 'Granada', 'Nessun Dorma' Carrusoe' & many other well known songs. His second album 'When You Say You Love Me' is of the same quality including 'Che Galina Manina, Matinata and others including a number of 'crossover' songs. In both of these CD's, we are given a little of Gardar's heart, in the form of a soothing Icelandic (folk?)song sung in his native tongue.

For those of you more familiar with 'Cortes'(Millymollymandy & Janet for two), you may wonder why there seems to have been something of a gap prior to Hyde Park. Sadly the management company Gardar was involved with went xxxs up which obviously did not help matters and then commitments in Germany and Scandinavia had to be met.(hold on, if you bothered to visit Cortes' fan website then you'd know this!)

Well thats led me on to the future. Presently Cortes is to perform in the Capitol of Iceland on 25 October and after? stirrings are afoot for Britain after the success of Hyde Park. If you would like to contribute, like me, to the 'stirrings' of Cortes' return to our shores then please visit www.gardarthorcortes.me.uk

Kind Regards,

See Ya,

Keith Mc.

Bryn Terfel

Katrina millymollymandy — Wed, 18 Nov 2009 23:33:29 GMT

Hi

I have just returned from seeing Bryn Terfel perform his Bad Boys concert at the Symphony Hall. This was my first chance to see Bryn sing live , and he certainly made a great impression on everyone tonight .

He has sung in opera houses worldwide and I felt priviliged to see him in a comparatively intimate setting .

He performed a strong line- up of musical villains , and needless to say , he played the role of Bad Boy rather well, he is so expressive . I am pleased to say that he was very entertaining , and enjoyed himself as much as we all did .

Memorable moments for me were Verdi's Force of Destiny Overture , Udite, Udite, O Rustici, from L'Elisir d'Amore The Soldiers' Chorus from Faust,The Ballard of Sweeney Todd , Mack the Knife and It Ain't Neccessarily So . The The Sinfonia Cymru ( a group of young professional musicians) accompanied him admirably , as did the choir.

What made it really special was his vocal strength,coupled by his easy ability to act out the part of each bad boy.I would certainly recommend seeing this show if you have a chance , and I would go again too.

It was rather good that Charlie came too:):):).

Great to finally meet you Charlie , and thanks to your friend Hilary for making it happen so smoothly.

Faryl Smith

john w — Fri, 25 Sep 2009 15:49:53 GMT

called Wonderland out 30 Nov

john

MY CONCERT SCHEDULE

RUSSELL GILBERT — Tue, 22 Sep 2009 11:38:51 GMT

Dear All,
Well folks, after a bit of a struggle and some help from admin, I'v now been able to register and log in. I hope you didn't think I had abandoned you - now would I?
Also apologies for not keeping this thread up to date, but things have been hectic and somewhat traumatic this last few weeks. Other than spending most of the last month working abroard, and doing a couple of Proms in between, my brother and I had the unpleasent task of putting our dear Mum in a nursing home. At age 90 she is now suffering from a rapid onset of Altzeimers, is unable to walk, speak or even feed herself and needs 24 hour nursing care.
I am now on tour in Japan until October 4th, and having aquired a netbook I am pleased to say I can keep in touch wherever I am, so there's no stopping me now! The RPO office are sending my October schedule to me by email so hopefully in the next day of two I will be able to keep you informed as to what I'm up to, I know many of you are interested to read this. And of course it is always such a pleasue to see forum members at some of the concerts, I believe Sue and Oliver are coming to Birmingham on November 2nd. to hear Renee Fleming.
I have answered a couple of PMs on the previous forum, please check it.

Best wishes to you all

Russell. :)

Strictly Come Dancing - London 09/07/2010

Jim — Sat, 10 Jul 2010 21:49:09 GMT

Hi all,

Well, after seeing it in Brighton back in the begining of May, I simply had to see the professionals on tour again.

And I'm glad I did!

As the couples were introduced to the audience, Vincent and Flavia, James and Ola, Brian and Kristina, Matthew and Aliona, Ian then came out on his own. We were then told that his partner, Natalie, had sustained an injury a few days ago and was unable to dance. So that meant that there were a few changes to the Brighton show, but in no way did it deter from my enjoyment of it.

Anyway, I took my camera along and managed to get more than a few shots. Apologies if some are of a poorer quality than others, but those dancers can move at lightning speed when they want to! I assure you that I did do my very best to keep up!!!

Anyway, hope you enjoy!

Opening group dance

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Vincent and Flavia

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James and Ola

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Brian and Kristina

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Matthew and Aliona

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And as poor Ian Waite was on his own, here are some of him having a right old laugh with Matthew and James

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Regards,

Jim

Free tickets to see Rolando Villazon and Milos Karadaglic

Katrina millymollymandy — Sun, 11 Jul 2010 19:20:50 GMT

Hi Folks

I have been allocated two tickets to see Roland Villazon at the Itunes festival this Thursday .Much as I would love to attend , I will be working and unable to go .

Would anyone like my tickets , free of charge ?

Entrance is from 6:00 pm , it is a standing ticket , and you have to be there by 8:15 pm .

First come , first served , just send me a PM , I have an email with the tickets as an attachment .

Best wishes

Katrina

Weybridge 04/07/2010 - a classical extravaganza

Jim — Tue, 06 Jul 2010 20:54:50 GMT

Hi,

What a show!

The line up for this event was simply too good to miss. Hosted by Myleene Klass and featuring performances from Camilla Kerslake, Faryl Smith, Escala, Blake, Darius Campbell, Russell Watson as well as Myleene herself, it was event full of fantastic singing and playing with more than a few laughs thrown in along the way!

I knew it was going to be be a great show when I went to pick up my ticket. Because there weren't that many people attending, a couple of thousand at most, I was placed a lot closer to the stage than I'd booked to sit. Soon after I got there, I just happened to bump into Graham (25), many thanks for the pleasure of your company! As the concert was due to start at 5.00, I thought it was going to last up until 7.30 - 8.00. So imagine my surprise when Graham told me that he'd been told that it was due to finish at 9.30! I thought that someone was having a laugh so I didn't take it too seriously.

How wrong I was! It actually finished by about 9.15 but I didn't get out until after 9.30. But nevertheless, I had an amazing time. The weather was a bit hit and miss, when the sun was out is was really nice, but when it clouded over you could really notice the temperature drop. And it was more than a little bit windy to say the least!

Anyway, enough of me. Here are some photos, hope you enjoy!

Camilla Kerslake

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Faryl Smith

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Escala

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Blake

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Darius Campbell

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Myleene Klass

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Russell Watson

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Regards,

Jim

Joanna Marie Skillet

Lonesome Pine — Wed, 23 Jun 2010 08:32:08 GMT

Nice story this one.

http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-1288730/Soprano-popped-music-school-wish-friends-luck--walks-1million-recording-deal.html

[b]Soprano who popped in to music school to wish friends luck... walks out with £1million recording deal
[/b]
By Liz Thomas

She had only popped in to the music academy to wish some friends luck but walked out blessing her own good fortune after she emerged with a £1million recording contract.

Former choirgirl Joanna Marie Skillet landed the deal of a lifetime after a chance meeting with music management team IMA Productions and is already being hailed as the next Katherine Jenkins.

They had come to the Royal Academy of Music, where she studied, looking for a boyband, but were persuaded to listen to the 22-year-old soprano by her tutor.
Good fortune: Joanna Marie Skillet landed the £1million record deal after going to wish her music academy friends luck with their auditions

Good fortune: Joanna Marie Skillet landed the £1million record deal after going to wish her music academy friends luck with their auditions

Miss Skillet told the Daily Mail: 'It was the most nerve-wracking experience of my life. I had only popped in to wish some friends good luck when my tutor called me over.

‘The guys were lovely though and I felt a real connection with them straight away.’

Jake Hook, from IMA Productions, said: ‘We were looking for guys to form a boyband when one of the lecturers said, “You've got to hear this girl”.

‘We met her in a corridor and she just sang a cappella for us there and then. I had never heard a voice like it. I had goosebumps. She is a complete and utter jewel.’

The pretty blonde has already spent time in the studio honing her voice and is working on a debut album.

IMA Productions, who have worked with stars such as Lesley Garrett, Blake and The Soldiers, said the record is scheduled for release later this year.

Like Miss Jenkins’ latest offering Believe, it will be a mix of opera and more popular tracks.

Miss Skillet said: ‘It would be a great privilege if I was to become as successful as her.
Contract: The 22-year-old soprano is currently working on her debut album

Contract: The 22-year-old soprano is currently working on her debut album

‘When I was younger I used to listen to Katherine Jenkins and think how wonderful her music was.

‘I would love to inspire the next generation like that. It has been a crazy and wonderful time.

'I feel very humbled and proud that I have just come from singing in my church choir and have been lucky enough to sign up to such a big record label.’

‘I am very excited but I also know it is a long way to go but I am just enjoying it and pacing myself for when I will be able to perform on big stages.

‘We have made three tracks together so far for my debut album. My work is mainly classical, but I am going to include a few pop ballads sung in a classical style.'

It is understood Rogers and Hammerstein classic You'll Never Walk Alone and Celine Dion's The Prayer will be on the album.
Influence: Miss Skillet is tipped to be the next Katherine Jenkins, pictured

Influence: Miss Skillet is tipped to be the next Katherine Jenkins, pictured

Miss Skillet still lives at home in Upminster with her mother Kathleen and her father Ronald - her brother David, 21, is studying accountancy at Plymouth University.

Astonishingly, the aspiring star, who is an accomplished pianist and flute player, only began singing after she entered a performing arts competition and was told she needed a third musical discipline to be eligible.

Mrs Skillet, who is a part-time teacher, told the Daily Mail: 'We are so proud of her.

‘It was really her involvement in the church choir that brought this love of music.

‘She has been singing in the choir since she was very young and was taught the piano by a neighbour from the age of four so it has always been a love of hers. But I think we are both especially proud of her because she gives a lot back.

'She has a great talent but she does a lot for charity and has even come to perform and teach about opera at the school I work at.

‘I know she'll be a great success but she will keep her feet on the ground. She will never be a diva.'

Miss Skillet won a place at the prestigious Royal Academy of Music when she was just 17 and was studying opera as a postgraduate when she was snapped up by record producers.

She has already worked with Trevor Pinnock, Barbara Bonney and Mary King, and performed in concert as La Contessa in Mozart’s Le Nozze Di Figaro and Donna Elvira in Don Giovanni

Cerys Matthews

KeithP — Thu, 24 Jun 2010 19:25:10 GMT

Just collected a copy of Cerys' new album. A lot of traditional Welsh songs including Myfanwy, Cwm Rhondda, Ar Hyd Y Nos, Calon Lân, Dafydd Y Garreg Wen, Mae Hen Wlad Fy Nhadau and even a duet with Bryn Terfel on Migldi Magldi.

Most of the tracks of very bare with minimal instrumentation, which just emphasises Cerys' unique voice.

This lady has come a long way since the Catatonia days of the early 90s.

Well worth a listen :)

Joanna Marie

sheilamoorey — Fri, 25 Jun 2010 09:13:55 GMT

Did you guys she Joanna Marie Skillett on London Tonight [url]http://www.itnsource.com/jp/shotlist//ITN/2010/06/23/T23061020/[/url] on Wednesday? Utterly amazing! KJ and JM should do a duet, how about the Flower's duet!

Really beautiful!

I found a youtube video of JM singing Nessun Dorma

[url]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VTXiHiqTyCQ[/url]

THE PRIESTS

RUSSELL GILBERT — Sun, 06 Jun 2010 22:55:35 GMT

A new album of The Priests will be recorded at Air Studios in North London on June 17th & 19th and I shall be playing on it.
I'll post more details later.

Russell.

Kate Corrigan

Tricia — Thu, 24 Jun 2010 10:07:40 GMT

Kate has a new Video out called 'Heaven In Your Gaze'. It's on YouTube:-

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CytwJd-pTU0

Enjoy. I did!!!

Take care

Tricia

Escala

EmilyRose — Mon, 14 Sep 2009 07:11:59 GMT

[b]Escala are going to be joining Welsh Mezzo Soprano Katherine Jenkins on an 11 date UK arena tour, starting March 2010.[/b]

Escala are an electronic string quartet, from London, England who rose to fame when they performed on and reached the final on the second series of Britain's Got Talent on ITV1 in May 2008.

The ladies are deadly serious about their music, playing both acoustic and electric instruments and bringing stylish high-octane showmanship to their performances. With their distinctive formula of fun and integrity, the girls believe their approach will win over many (in particular the young) to overcome prejudices about classical instruments.

Just a bit of info about the girls :)

Emily

Strictly Come Dancing - The Professionals

tonym — Mon, 03 May 2010 18:08:22 GMT

Hi all

To any of you who can't wait until the next series of SCD, can i strongly recommend you go to this "Professionals" Tour when it arrives at a venue near you.

The tour kicked off in Brighton at the weekend and goes nationwide until Mid July.

Details can be found at

http://www.strictlycomedancingprotour.com/default.asp?contentID=576

Myself and partner in crime (Jim), took it upon ourselves to see one of the performances and we came away with total admiration and amazement for the wonderfully choreographed performances presented to us.

As the Tour suggests, it is an opportunity for the show professionals to display their skills to us without the "distraction" of the celebrities. So no John Seargeant dragging a poor female dancer across the stage. However, don't be too surprised if he puts in an appearance;). Appearances are from 5 of the couples from the show including Flavia & Vincent, James & Ola, Natalie & Ian, Kristina & Brian, Aliona & Matthew.

As i say, a thoroughly recommended family show.

Please find below, a selection of photos taken at the event. I must apologise for the emphasis of photos being of the Female dancers. I cannot for the life of me give any real reason as to why this is the case:):):).

Perhaps my colleague Jim might come up with an explanation:cool:

Enjoy

rock bands and meat loaf

john w — Sun, 14 Feb 2010 13:51:36 GMT

i think there the great

john

Renee Fleming

Muriel — Tue, 25 May 2010 20:11:57 GMT

Heard Renee Fleming being interviewed on radio (4) this morning. She said she has released a new CD "Dark Hope" of rock and pop covers. Now her fans (me included) will have something to talk about too:hehe:

Muriel

KATIE MELUA

RUSSELL GILBERT — Wed, 27 Jan 2010 20:55:15 GMT

I have just been sifting through some papers in my violin case and found the following details.
Katie fans will be pleased to know that we in the RPO spent the day of January 2nd recording a new album with her at Air Studios in North London. It was conducted and arranged by Mike Batt who wrote the Wombles tune - and made a fortune out of it!
The tracks were:-

THE FLOOD
A PLAGUE OF LOVE
GOD ON DRUMS, DEVIL ON BASS
TWISTED
MOMENT OF MADNESS
A HAPPY PLACE
I'D LOVE TO KILL YOU
TINY ALIEN
NO FEAR OF HEIGHTS
RED BALOONS
LOOK AWAY NOW
YOU CAN'T FAIL ME NOW

I don't know when it will be released, but I did think it sounded very nice indeed.

Russell.

Lesley Garrett

david_cowlishaw — Mon, 24 May 2010 08:15:37 GMT

If any forum members like their music with no amplification, no orchestra and only one grand piano then the concert I went to on my birthday yesterday might suit you. Lesley Garrett, Geoffrey Dolton and Andrew West( piano) were at the Assembly Rooms in Derby. The unaided human voice has some exquisite qualities.
David.

Bernie Nolan

Tricia — Mon, 26 Apr 2010 08:58:40 GMT

Bernie Nolan has announced that she has Breast Cancer. She is to undergo a Mastectomy and Chemotherapy. She is the third of the Nolan Sisters to get Breast Cancer. She and her family are in my thoughts and prayers.

Take care

Tricia

Andre Rieu Tour

oliver — Mon, 29 Mar 2010 23:46:35 GMT

Andre Rieu is touring here in September.

Full details from Ticketmaster.

Elin Manahan Thomas

GBL70 — Fri, 11 Sep 2009 19:28:19 GMT

Hi all

With no pre Christmas Katherine concerts to look forward to this year, this will be a concert I will be attending without doubt!

Nottingham Classics Christmas Concert - Wednesday 16th December 2009 - 19:30

Bernstein’s exuberant Candide Overture pops the corks on our Christmas celebrations as maestro Carl Davis launches an evening of festive fun packed with great seasonal favourites. Backed by the Liverpool Welsh Choral Union the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra will be performing a richly varied programme from Massenet’s beautiful Meditation to Shostakovich’s tongue-in-cheek arrangement of Tea for Two.

Making her first appearance for Nottingham Classics concert is Elin Manahan Thomas, whose crystal clear voice has made her one of the most sought-after sopranos of her generation. This concert offers the chance to hear her in familiar territory with pieces by Mozart and Handel and also in a host of Christmas classics including O Holy Night, Angels from the Realms of Glory and The Twelve Days of Christmas.

http://www.nottinghamclassics.org.uk/

I shall look forward to hearing Elin sing at the Royacl Concert Hall, with it's excellent acoustics!

All the best
Graham

Darcey Bussell

johnp — Sat, 12 Dec 2009 10:43:01 GMT

This may be of interest?

Darcey Bussell comes out of retirement to perform on tonight's Strictly Come Dancing

By Georgina Littlejohn
Last updated at 1:28 AM on 12th December 2009

After almost 20 years as a prima ballerina Darcey Bussell decided to hang up her pointes two years ago and step back from professional dance.

But this evening she will come out of retirement and put on her dancing shoes once again for a performance on Strictly Come Dancing.

Bussell, 40, has been in training all week with one of the BBC show's professional dancers Ian Waite for a jive that they will perform live on tonight's episode.

Out of retirement: Former prima ballerina Darcey Bussell takes to the floor once more for tonight's Strictly Come Dancing

The former principal dancer with The Royal ballet, Bussell was asked to join as a judge for the seventh series of the celebrity dance show.

Last week she made her debut on the panel alongside Craig Revel Horwood, Len Goodman, Alisha Dixon and Bruno Tonioli, to give her verdict on the quarter-finalists.

More...

Strictly's Chris Hollins: 'If only I could be four again'

This week, however, she will take to the floor with Waite, who has been partnering long jump athlete Jade Johnson, but she was forced to withdraw from the competition after suffering a serious injury to her right knee.

It will be the first time she has performed publicly since teaming up with opera star Katherine Jenkins for the stage show Viva La Diva.

Let's twist again: Darcey and partner Ian Waite practise their moves

Look, no hands: It's all smiles from Darcey and Ian as they try a difficult move

It will be also be the first time she has performed a Latin dance and once they have danced, the couple will face feedback from the judges.

Talking about the transition from ballet to ballroom, Darcey said: 'Being in heels is the most difficult thing. It's painful, being on the ball of the foot!

Generous: Darcey awards a couple as she makes her Strictly debut as a judge

'To go from being a performer for quite a few years to a judge and now attempting to dance - it feels like I am in a different zone. It's been quite nerve wracking.

'I know everyone has known me as the classical professional ballet dancer, I'd love for people to think of me a pro Latin dancer.'

Waite, however, is confident in his partner and said having been a professional dancer, she was able to learn the moves quickly.

He said: 'I am so excited to be dancing with Darcey, it's such an honour.

'Certain things have been difficult, certain things are easy for Darcey. As far as picking things up I wish all of my celebrities could be that fast!'

But he said he was a little nervous about dropping the world famous ballerina.

He added: 'It's a bit worrying to think I could break Darcey Bussell at any moment - it's like carrying bone china. But they did used to call me Frank Spencer when I was younger, so that's a bit disconcerting.'

Tonight's show, which airs on BBC One at is the semi-final of the reality programme, which is presented by Bruce Forsyth and Tess Daly.

Three couples remain to battle it out for the two coveted places in next weeks final - Hollyoaks star Ricky Whittle and his partner Natalie Lowe, The Bill actress Ali Bastian and her partner Brian Fortuna and BBC Sports presenter Chris Hollins and his partner Ola Jordan.

Ta da! Darcey and Ian show off their fancy footwork for the camera

Jose C and Dame Kiri

Muriel — Wed, 07 Apr 2010 16:53:19 GMT

Jose Carreras and Dame Kiri are performing at the Gala Opening at Scarborough Open Air Theatre on Friday 23rd July 2010

Muriel

Nicola Benedetti

johnp — Tue, 02 Mar 2010 21:15:54 GMT

Nicola Benedetti and Aly Bain are on SKY 990 tonight, Folk fiddler meets classical violinist

Two very talented players in their own field

When Nicola Benedetti Met Aly Bain

BBC 2 Scotland (Digital) 990

Tuesday 2nd March 2010

22:00 to 22:30

30 minutes.

Rising star of the classical music world Nicola Benedetti meets respected folk musician Aly Bain in Edinburgh to talk about the subject closest to their heart - the violin.

(Stereo, Widescreen, Subtitles)

Probably on iplayer later if you miss it

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Nicola-Benedetti-Violin-Official-/108563538364

http://www.bbc.co.uk/pressoffice/proginfo/nations/scotland/scpiwk09.pdf

When Nicola Benedetti Met Aly Bain µ NEW

Tuesday 2 March

BBC Two Scotland, 10.00-10.30pm

Nicola Benedetti is one of the leading lights of the classical world and Aly Bain is a bedrock of the

Scottish folk scene.

They both play violin but their music is worlds apart.

BBC Scotland’s ArtWorks puts the two together to talk musical beginnings, mentors and nerves.

And while discussing their different techniques, the two perform a little impromptu duet in Aly’s

Edinburgh home.

The programme opens with Nicola travelling to meet Aly at the Scottish Parliament, where they

have both performed, representing the nation at key events – Aly at the opening and Nicola at a

celebration of the new building.

As she rides in her taxi, Nicola says: “We both use the same instrument but in such different

ways.

“He is such a fascinating guy. He is such a wonderful open-hearted man who really likes to

discuss things. He has brought fiddle playing to different level and it‘s not just me saying that.

Most people would agree he is one of a kind.”

They reflect on the influences which led them to take up the violin or fiddle at such young ages;

Nicola at four saw her big sister take violin lessons and wanted a go at it too so she started

attending lessons, progressing to the prestigious Yehudi Menuhin school for gifted young

players. Aly discusses buying his first violin at 11, paying tribute to his Shetland mentor Tom

Anderson and his musical partner Phil Cunningham.

And the elder statesman of Scottish folk music reveals that he had to battle his nerves, often

speeding up too fast in his performances as nerves took hold of his hands. Meanwhile Nicola

reveals that in the early days during an intense performance her brain would work so fast her

fingers couldn't keep up.

Whatever happened to Vanessa Mae?

Heidi — Sat, 20 Mar 2010 15:36:26 GMT

... I thought she was great! :) The last thing I heard she did was a one-off concert last summer I think.

Love Never Dies - the musical

KeithP — Wed, 10 Mar 2010 10:56:12 GMT

Not really sure where this should be posted so feel free to move it :)

Partly because I heard Katherine sing the title track on the current tour and partly because the original Phantom is excellent, I bought the album soundtrack of Love Never Dies which was released on Monday. I think it is every bit as good as the original. I am sure anyone who enjoys Lloyd-Webber's work will love this.

escala

john w — Thu, 25 Mar 2010 09:59:40 GMT

think i will go and see them in concert supporting acts to be announced

regards

john

ps tickets pcost are just out £28-50 also going to see katherine at ripley castle 24 july

Kate Mcgarrigle

Philip100 — Wed, 20 Jan 2010 13:59:42 GMT

I was very saddened to read today of the death of Kate McGarrigle, one half of the Mcgarrigle sister and mother of Rufus and Martha Wainwright.

http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/entertainment/8468913.stm

I first became interested in their music with the album Love Over And Over from 1982 with its upbeat title track but the nature of their releases meant I only listened to their music now and again. The idea of a family and friends concert always intrigued me and an idea of what one would be like can be found on The McGarrigle Hour and The McGarrigle Christmas Hour and both are well worth the listen.

I toyed with the idea of seeing their Christmas Show at the Royal Albert Hall in December but in the end other commitments didn't allow. Sadly, I never realised how ill Kate was otherwise those commitments would have gone by the board.

Kate was a refreshing oddity in a success driven world and weill be greatly missed.

Philip :(

Chris Rea

KeithP — Mon, 22 Mar 2010 18:10:43 GMT

After seeing Katherine's new arena show three times recently, I had a total change last night and went to see Chris Rea in Oxford on his current tour.

For someone who was given a 50-50 chance of survival in 2001, his live show is impressive. It's nearly 2 hours with only a brief break between the main show and the encore.

To me, he is still one of the best guitarists around, he really can make a guitar talk to you.

The show is a good mix of some of the less obvious stuff with plenty of favourites. Some of his classics keep get rearranged (I suspect to keep his interest in the songs as much as anything else) and without doubt it's the better known pieces that really bring the audience to life with "Road To Hell" and the latest variations on songs like "Julia", "Josephine" and "Stainsby Girls". The encore certainly sent everyone off in fine style with excellent versions of "On The Beach" and "Let's Dance".

I'm just glad his retirement in 2006 was shortlived :)

All Angels

dazza_stoke — Fri, 11 Sep 2009 20:19:35 GMT

Hi Everyone,

I just had to start this topic :D

The release date of the girls new album 'Fly Away' has been put back a couple of months and is now going to be released on 11th January 2010.

All Angels will also be performing alongside up and coming artist Thomas Spencer-Wortley (who I reccomend) in a number of Christmas concerts at St John Smiths Square, London on 20th December, Birmingham Town Hall on the 21st and Harrogate International Centre on the 22nd. I have booked my ticket for Birmingham.

Dazza

Amaury Vassili ;French tenor on Katherine's Tour

oliver — Thu, 04 Mar 2010 16:25:10 GMT

He had a platinum selling CD in France last year called Vincero,which Warner Music is releasing here on May 10th. Songs include;-
Parla Pui Piano
Hallelujah
Who wants to live forever
Endless Love - Duet with Katherine

His My Space page describes Katherine as " La Nouvelle Star du Lyric Pop en Angleterre"....sounds a lot better than our tabloids "opera babe" !!!!

His site is Amoury Vassili.com and is partly in english.

Juliette Pochin

Lee — Mon, 11 Jan 2010 16:22:38 GMT

I went to see Juliette at the Bedford Corn Exchange yesterday evening with David and Gill Cowlishaw and the concert was well worth the 170 mile round trip in quite awfull conditions. I would have hired a team of huskies to get me there if need be.
I had a fabulous time and it was lovely to meet up with Juliette in the interval.
I can't wait for the next concert.

The London Gala Orchestra conducted by Stephen Bell began the prodeedings with music written by Hans Christian Lumbye. The conductor had a lovely sense of humour and involved the audience on a few occasions.
The pieces included Champagne Galop, Hesperus Waltz and Final Galop. Then it was Juliettes turn and she sang Violet. We were spellbound.

The other music was:
Wiener Blut (Juliette)
Leichtes Blut
Voices of Spring Waltz
Csardas from Die Fledermouse
Csardas
Radetzky March
Salute to our Friends
Tales from the Vienna Woods
Letter Songand Tipsy Waltz from La Perichole
Tipsy Song/AnnaPolka (Wonderful to see Juliette playing the part of someone somewhat tipsy on Champagne)
Thunder and Lightning Polka
Wer Uns Getraut
Zircus Renz
Canon Polka
Copenhagen Steam Railway Galop (The drummer played a strange instrument resembling a chest expander which copied the sound of train wheels on rails, brilliant!)
Blue Danube Waltz and the whole thing was brought to an end with a piper and a rendition of Auld Lang Syne by the audience.
I really must mention Juraj Helcmanovsky from Slovakia who played the Cimbalom a very strange intrustment resembling a large dressing table. He played it cleverly and beautifully, and it was mezmerising.
Lee

Connie Fisher

PamB — Wed, 17 Feb 2010 15:04:35 GMT

I went to see Connie Fisher in The Sound of Music at the Edinburgh Playhouse last night. It is a great show and Connie put in a super performance as Maria.

I saw this show at the London Paladium a couple of years ago and although I enjoyed the show then, I would have to say that the show was much better this time around. The staging had improved and all of the cast seemed to be much more comfortable in their roles. The whole story was totally believable and very well acted.

Connie was excellent from the minute she came on stage to the very end. She sang superbly well throughout and you could see that she had built a wonderful relationship with the children in the cast. I also thought that the on-stage relationship with Captain Von Trapp was very well acted and believable - much more so than when I saw the London show. At one stage, Maria (Connie) is caught eating a cake and has to speak with her mouth packed full - it was absolutely hilarious with crumbs flying everywhere!! She showed the ability to portray humour, sensitivity and compassion together with a wonderful voice.

The children were excellent - wonderful performances from some budding actors/singers of the future. They range in age from 7 to 13 and did a great job for the entire show.

The Mother Abbess was played by Margaret Preece, who was excellent also. Her rendition of Climb Ev'ry Mountain at the end of the first Act was a real show stopper!!

The audience was very appreciative of all the cast but especially the children, Margaret Preece and, of course, Connie.

I think that it would be great to see Connie in many more shows in the future.

You have to hand it to Wales - it produces some wonderfully talented people.

Pam

Sir John

Pete W — Mon, 08 Feb 2010 18:07:11 GMT

So sad to hear of the death of Sir John Dankworth or Johnny Dankworh as he was when I first saw him in concert at the Davis Theatre Croydon in 1955. I was 13.

The last time I saw him with his wife Dame Cleo Laine was at a concert here in West Sussex a couple of years back.

One of our finest jazz musicans, he will be sorely missed.

Sarah Brightman

Quentin — Thu, 08 Oct 2009 15:13:45 GMT

Don't know about you, but I love Sarah Brightman like I love Katherine Jenkins. Does anyone else?

[i]Title edited[/i]

the saturdays or girls aloud

Katherine_fan — Fri, 22 Jan 2010 19:38:14 GMT

YOU CAN CHOOSE WHO YOU LIKE EITHER THE SATURDAYS OR GIRLS ALOUD? I CHOOSE THE SATURDAYS.:w00t: