In Focus: Daniel Kidane with Manchester Camerata

Fri 29 November 2024, 1:10pm,
Martin Harris Centre at The University of Manchester

Ahead of our concert together at Wigmore Hall, we are showcasing the works of our friend and critically acclaimed composer, Daniel Kidane at a free lunchtime concert in partnership with The University Of Manchester.

We first worked with Daniel back in 2009, commissioning his piece ‘Towards Resolution’, which was inspired by the opening of Henry Purcell’s first three-part Fantazia. Subsequently, almost 10 years later during the COVID-19 Pandemic, we commissioned Daniel again to write for us. This time, the result was ‘Be Still’, a piece written in direct response to the passing of time during the months in which the nation was under lockdown. For this concert, we perform both these pieces as well as others from Daniels’ impressive body of work.

We are also joined by another returnee to the Camerata, the incredible violinist Jonian Ilias Kadesha. Introduced to music by his violinist father, Jonian is always seeking out new musical experiences. It was this search which led him to perform Bach’s Chaconne in a pub down in Cornwall, which he cites as ‘The funniest, but also one of the most moving [musical] experiences’ of his life. This courageous and open form of music-making has led Jonian to collaborate with distinguished Camerata guests such as Martha Argerich, Pekka Kuusisto, and our own Gábor Takács-Nagy. We are delighted to be back performing together again.

This is a free concert – no ticket required. To find out more how to get to the Martin Harris Centre click the Book Now Link.

Post-Concert Talk with Daniel Kidane

3:00-4:30pm, Cosmo Rodewald Hall, Martin Harris Centre

Hosted in collaboration by Manchester Camerata, The University of Manchester Music Department, and Creative Manchester

Following our lunchtime concert, join us for an insightful talk by acclaimed composer Daniel Kidane, hosted by Manchester Camerata, Creative Manchester, and the University of Manchester Music Department. Open to the public, this free event offers a unique opportunity to hear Daniel discuss his recent works including Be Still and Foreign Tongues, with live musical examples and a closer look at the scores including.

Kidane’s compositions are a vivid exploration of transnational identity, weaving together his multicultural heritage and diverse musical influences—from Eritrean folk to Soviet war songs and UK Jungle. His work often reflects the complex interplay of languages, both musical and cultural, and is deeply invested in championing diversity and challenging conventions within classical music.

Whether you’re an academic, music student, or simply interested in contemporary music, this talk promises to be engaging and interactive. Daniel is a passionate advocate for dialogue and invites you to bring your questions for an open Q&A session.

No ticket required—come along and be part of the conversation.

Programme