Monsterous ambition

~ December 2012

It feels like we are half way through our most ambitious commission, the second Love Music collaboration with poet and lyricist Matt Harvey – our second songbook is a rich kaleidoscope of monsters designed to challenge and enrich the repertoire available to school choirs.

Half way through means three performances to date in partnership with St Magnus International Festival in Orkney and Deal Festival in Kent. Three performances in June allowed us to work with 800 children. We have another two projects in preparation for performances in spring 2013 with the Scottish Chamber Orchestra and at The Sage Gateshead with the Northern Sinfonia.

Matt Harvey’s wonderful lyrics provide a bucketful of humour, surrealism and unforgettable wordplay that are tickling the imaginations of 10 year-olds and teachers. Have a quick look at the monster website to meet the monsters in verse.

We have also brought back the talents of another “old friend” – the New Zealand illustrator and artist Seymour whose love of all things gothic and black comedic style have given clear shape to some of Matt’s bizarre imaginings – the fearless monster hunter is one of my favourites.

Half way through means we’re also mid-point through our geographic reach across the UK – three performances in Scotland and England already – three more to come, and plans for two performances in Wales and Northern Ireland. We are also pleased to half-announce another performance at a well-known international music festival is in the planning for next year – more soon – when we’re allowed to let you know.

This has been possible through PRS Foundation’s Beyond Borders scheme, which encourages cross-border commissions and collaborations. As a result of thinking more expansively and broadening our networks partnerships across the UK, we will have been able to meet and work with 1,500 children, an opera company, two wonderful chamber orchestras, and 3 festivals!

Thanks also to the musicians and SCO Connect team at Scottish Chamber Orchestra for their recent investment and delivery of a monstrous creative music project in nine Edinburgh primary schools in November.

Love Music Blog ~ Monsterous ambition

Love Music Blog