Nairn musician to play Belladrum under own name for first time
Talented Nairn pianist Kenna Ross is looking forward to sharing her own music at Belladrum Tartan Heart Festival on Friday and Saturday following the successful launch of her debut album.
Q You're a home-grown talent and have performed at Belladrum several times before, what are you most looking forward to this time around and why?
A I’ve been playing with acts over the years across the different stages and this is my first time performing my own original music leading a band at the Grassroots stage, it feels very special. It’s also my 10th year playing piano live to audiences so it is a bit of an anniversary.
• Nairn pianist can’t wait for Belladrum after album launch in Inverness
Q What does spreading your wings and going for it alone mean to you and how would you hope the next 12 months will pan out?
A It’s strange having just my name on posters but I don’t feel completely alone as I have created a six-piece band around me with friends and musicians I’ve worked with throughout my journey. I don’t have a lot planned for the next 12 months because I’ve not put too much pressure on the album project but I will just see what happens and take on all the opportunities that I can. I still plan on working with other musicians and bands as a session piano player so it will still be busy.
Q How would you describe your offering to people who might be seeing you for the first time?
A I’ll be performing my debut original album In the Moment which is an instrumental piano-based album with a Highland twist. I hope the audience will be able to relax and use their imagination while we play the music.
Q When you're at music festivals performing do you get a chance to unwind and enjoy any of the other performances?
A I love attending festivals especially Belladrum, I’m normally running between the different stages and tents to catch everyone on my list. Because it’s our local festival I have a lot of friends to try and see, this year Forgetting the Future are playing the main stage, Moteh Parrot on the Free Range Folk Stage and The Laurettes on the Garden Stage, Lynette will also be joining me on fiddle at my set. I think I’ll have to make a trip to watch the Sugababes, James Arthur and Callum Beattie too. I’m looking forward to catching some acts I’ve not seen before as well, I could go on and on as it’s such a great line-up!
Q The festival theme is love, what is your favourite love song of all time and why?
A There’s so many but I would probably say one by Billy Joel to keep in with the piano theme. I was lucky to see him a few years ago so I could say any of his.
Q Some people might recognise you from your charitable efforts with this year's Strictly Inverness dance contest. How was that experience for you and can you give us any hints of anything special you are preparing for your sets - any dancing?
A Strictly was such an amazing experience and I loved the whole thing! We did have a Barbie theme in one of our dances so I might try and incorporate some kind of nod to that. I won’t be able to get up and dance while sitting at the piano but anyone who wants to sway along is very welcome.
