City of Culture musician in residence Neil Cowley is to premiere an entirely new suite of music ‘The Eighth Gate” for his closing performance at the Guildhall on Saturday, 7 December next.
Neil Cowley.
The composition is described by the award-winning jazz pianist as a “small gift’”to the city in return for his inspirational time in Derry during 2013.
For this large scale show, Cowley has invited chamber choir Codetta to perform with his own Neil Cowley Trio, voted Best UK Jazz Artist of the Year at this year’s Jazz FM awards, as well as local musicians he has encountered along the way.
Revered for his ability to tell stories through his dynamic music, Cowley will take the listener on a thrilling musical journey through “The Eighth Gate,” from poignant, reflective moments to powerful pulsating interludes.
Cowley said he had been inspired by the year-long residency in Derry: “Being musician in residence here has gifted me a great many shared musical journeys. The piece I’m writing is my small gift in return for the many I’ve received. I hope that the love and affection with which its written will act as a kind of mirror, reflecting back on the people of the city.’
Cowley’s unique residency has been a partnership between PRS for Music Foundation, UK City of Culture 2013 and the Nerve Centre, Derry-Londonderry’s music hub, where the residency has been based.
Pearse Moore, chief executive of the Nerve Centre, said: ‘Neil’s been a fantastic ambassador for the city during 2013. He has had a hugely positive impact on many young people and musicians throughout the city.
‘Not only have we experienced two unforgettable performances at the Nerve Centre during the Jazz festival and St Augustine’s during Music City, but as the City of Culture musician in residence Neil has been the musical heartbeat of the Nerve Centre and our SYNC programme, inspiring, engaging and encouraging countless young musicians.
‘The Nerve Centre can’t wait until his performance on December 7 to hear a world exclusive of the new music he has created during his time here.’
Neil Cowley will perform ‘The Eighth Gate’ at The Guildhall, Derry-Londonderry, on Saturday, December 7, 2013. Doors are at 7.00pm with the show starting at 8.00pm. Tickets cost £12 plus booking fee, available from Nerve Centre, Ticketmaster and WeGotTickets.
