John Metcalfe

Finally had time to update things. The MBM tour was a runaway success and contained so many memorable moments particularly playing to a packed Festival Hall for the last show. There are loads of YouTube clips posted so do have a look. Everyone was amazing - the Bays, Jules Buckley, the orchestra, Adam and the AV guys and all the crew did such an outstanding job. I have to single out fellow composer Simon Hale who night after night turned out the most incredible music. The man is bionic. We also did some great shows as the support - cds flying out the door and exceptional response which was a very lovely thing. I keep saying it but thank you to everyone who showed up.

So 2009 is looking nice and busy. I am currently working with a legend (can't say who yet) for a possible album release this year - very exciting. Tom Kerstens's album which contains some of my work is also set for release on Real World Records and my collaboration with cellist Matthew Barley will be resumed now that his shoulder has recovered. Just at the end of last year I contributed some strings to Babyshambles' new album and I worked with Imagined Village's Simon Emmerson on his new project which was sounding very beautiful though I say it myself!

My involvement with Kings Place in London has picked up pace. Alongside the 2 concerts I have curated for the Spring series I am planning a 4-day festival in Hall One during early October. Early days but some exciting artists are already involved. More as soon as I have it.

Labels: beyond_the_loop, gigs, Matthew_Barley, Tom_Kerstens

Very disappointing news that Matthew has had to cancel his tour due to injury. Hopefully once he has fully recovered the tour will be re-scheduled. Please contact venues directly for a refund.

Labels: Matthew_Barley

Cellist extraordinaire Matthew Barley who fronted BBC's 'Classical Star'' series last year embarks on a tour of British cathedrals on 19th April. He will perform two new suites of newly composed music written by me over the last few months plus the two pieces I wrote for him last year. In Matthew's usual imaginative style of mixing traditional styles (he's also playing J.S. Bach) the music will involve electronics and live improvisation all through Ableton Live.

www.matthewbarley.com

Labels: Matthew_Barley

I am composing a new piece for cellist Matt Barley called 'Gold! Red!' to be premiered on 5th June 2007 as part of the Spitalfields festival. I think it might be on the radio too. More details to follow when I've written it....

Labels: Matthew_Barley