A December to Remember: Bristol Beacon's Spectacular Showcase of Talent and Tunes
This festive season, Bristol Beacon is set to illuminate the city's cultural landscape with a series of unforgettable performances, showcasing a diverse array of global talent and local stars. From the vibrant rhythms of Cuban jazz to the punk rock nostalgia of The Damned, there's something for every music lover. Experience the magic of live performances from the Junior Ensembles, the entrancing beats of Confidence Man, the classical elegance of the Hungarian Radio Symphony Orchestra, and the soulful tributes to Nina Simone by Lady Nade. Each event promises to captivate and inspire, leaving audiences with memories to cherish.
Experience the talent of young musicians from across the city as they present the music they’ve been perfecting this term. The Junior Ensembles will perform an eclectic mix of pieces, ranging from timeless classics and popular hits to memorable tunes from TV and film.
Since bursting onto the scene in 2016, Confidence Man have enchanted global audiences with their playful pop-dance tracks and captivating choreography. Their latest album, ‘3AM (LA LA LA)‘, blends acid techno, trance, breakbeat, and big beat for a darker, sexier, and more surreal experience. The group quickly attracted a hardcore fanbase of ravers young and old from their 2022 Glastonbury set.
The concert opens with Kodaly’s lively Dances of Galanta, based on Hungarian folk tunes. The orchestra is then joined by star pianist Jeneba Kanneh-Mason for Chopin’s achingly lyrical Piano Concerto No. 2.
Holter has amassed a body of work that explores melody within free song structures, atmosphere, and the impulses of the voice. Her interest in sonic mysteries has led her to record in various settings as well as to perform live, often with a focus on the voice and the space between language and babble. Her latest release, ‘Something in the Room She Moves‘, is inspired by the childlike playfulness of her daughter.
Critics and fans alike have often drawn comparisons between Lady Nade’s voice and the legendary Nina Simone – an icon and musical storyteller of the twentieth century who left behind a legacy of liberation, empowerment, passion, and love through her extraordinary body of work. As a black woman, Lady Nade acknowledges Nina Simone’s trailblazing role in paving the way for artists of her generation. Simone’s tenacity encouraged them not to abandon their dreams and aspirations. Lady Nade is honored to celebrate Nina Simone’s life and enduring legacy alongside some of the UK’s most accomplished musicians.
She has released three critically-acclaimed albums ‘Mattiel’, ‘Satis Factory’ and ‘Georgia Gothic’. Mattiel has headlined multiple tours, playing on Jools Holland, Stephen Colbert, and at 2019’s BBC Proms at the Royal Albert Hall in London. Mattiel has also supported Tame Impala on tour, and her very first US arena tour was opening for Jack White, who originally encouraged Mattiel to pursue a career in music.
Experience a night featuring the best quality soloists around; with the fiery Johnny Bruce (trumpet), saxophonists Ben Waghorn and Kevin Figes; the rare trombone talent of Raph Clarkson and possible the best rhythm section in the South West region, featuring the mighty piano playing of Jim Blomfield.
Since forming in 1999, the seven-piece’s potent live energy has built a loyal audience of Fred Heads. In 2023 the band toured UK/EU, playing headline and summer festival shows at the likes of Apollo, London, L’Olympia in Paris, Waldbuhne Berlin and Galway International Arts Festival.
Punk veterans The Damned announce their plans for an extensive UK tour in 2024 to celebrate the return of original drummer Rat Scabies – marking the first time this line-up has played together since 1989.
The Buena Bristol Social Club is a testament to the enduring spirit and essence of the Buena Vista tradition, skillfully brought to life by a talented ensemble under the guidance of Michel Padron. The band’s music is a blend of traditional Cuban rhythms, jazz, and folk, with a unique Bristol twist. They have a wide range of musical influences, from the classic Buena Vista Social Club to modern Latin American music, and their performances are always high-energy and engaging.
Bristol Beacon’s December lineup is a testament to the power of music to transcend boundaries and bring people together. From the exuberant beats of pop and dance to the soulful strains of classical and jazz, each event promises an unforgettable experience. Whether you are discovering new talent or revisiting beloved classics, this series offers a chance to immerse yourself in the vibrant cultural tapestry of Bristol. As the city comes alive with music, these performances remind us of the joy and connection that only live music can provide.