soundfestival 2023 had an eclectic programme featuring 20 world premiere performances, a lying-down piano concert experience, a sonically and visually captivating show for children and more.
The festival welcomed back two champions of new music for the piano: Rolf Hind returns to perform pieces he commissioned during lockdown and joins Robin Michael for a celebration of music for cello and piano, including music by the late much-missed John MacLeod.
Christina McMaster created spaces for deep relaxation and listening with her Lie Down and Listen concert experience. We heard Colin Riley’s new work for piano, film and live visuals, Ludic Inventions, and welcomed pianist Siwan Rhys to the festival for the first time – performing a new work by Christopher Fox with fellow GBSR duo percussionist George Barton.
Siwan also joined mezzo-soprano Lucy Goddard for a setting of Nan Shepherd’s work The Living Mountain by composer James Weeks.
Chamber Choir Ireland performed their soundfestival debut, as did Elizabeth Hilliard with works by Irish composers for voice and electronics. And of course local chamber choir Con Anima presented new work by emerging composers as part of our soundcreator’s strand.
