12 upcoming singer-songwriters are set to perform in Inverness at Eden Court to celebrate the launch of their collaborative album
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Scotland’s Creative Writing Centre, Moniack Mhor, and Boo Hewerdine are presenting exciting new voices in music at STAGES: The Journey to Performance in Eden Court, Inverness, next week.
Twelve gifted singer-songwriters are set to perform a series of original and unheard songs at the launch of their collaborative album, developed through Stages, a writing, production and performance programme for emerging songwriters.
Under the guidance of singer-songwriter and record producer Boo Hewerdine, and facilitated by Moniack Mhor, the songwriters have been working with a host of industry professionals including Emma Pollock from The Delgados and singer-songwriter Findlay Napier, on a journey designed to take the mystery out of producing and sharing music.
Shirley Barr, from Forres, is one of twelve emerging singer-songwriters taking part in a four-month mentorship programme said she is thrilled to be apart of the project.
She said: "Stages has been an incredible experience, extremely educational and inspirational and I've made some firm new friendships along the way, too.
"We have recorded a collaborative album together, which will be launched at a live show at Eden Court"
From generating new song ideas, through recording with Chem19 Recording Studio, album production with Elly Lucas, and learning about the music industry, this musical journey will culminate in a celebration of new work and live performance.
The artists come from a wide range of backgrounds, with different levels of experience in the music industry.
Audiences and listeners will voyage though diverse musical styles including indie, folk, rock, chamber pop, and storytelling acoustic.
Speaking ahead of the performance Boo Hewerdine said: "Stages has far surpassed my expectation's. To hear these songs being created, recorded and now performed has been extraordinary.
"The individuality of each piece and the collective nature of the project has been a heady brew.
"You’re in for a wonderful evening of new music."
Pre-sales of the album will be available at the Eden Court launch event, and it will be widely available online and in shops from November 17.
Broken David, from Orkney, said: "Stages is like a shot in both arms at once - encouragement, support, inspiration, practical advice. Its a heady brew that gets to the heart of the range of skills and collaboration's needed for professional music making.
"I love lyric writing and hate photoshoots but Stages has helped me develop both and has given me confidence in areas I've been less sure of, like electronic press kits and music licensing."
"To produce an album of this quality in this time-scale is astonishing.
"I am really proud of my contribution, but also incredibly proud of everyone else - they are a fantastic gaggle of creative human beings."
Bell Lungs, from Glasgow, said: "The Stages programme has been part of reconnecting myself with my creative practice after a traumatic pandemic experience.
"The support from the tutors and everyone on the project has been phenomenal and deeply appreciated."
She added: "I am excited to perform in Inverness as I never have before, and I really hope that it won’t be the only time! It’s lovely to have this concert as the culmination of the experience everyone on the Stages programme has shared, and to take it into my memory as a special night to remember!’
The event is set to take place at Eden Court One Touch Theatre, Saturday 28 October, at 8pm.
Tickets are available to purchase from Eden Court Website.
