Rushil Ranjan

Abi Sampa

Praveen Prathapan

Janan Sathiendran

The Stoller Hall

This semi-staged concert is based on our preconceptions of mental illness, with each piece having a connection to the psychology of the mind – centred around Peter Maxwell Davies’ harrowing depiction of the ‘madness’ of King George III.

Maxwell Davies was a key member of the Manchester School of Composers, who reshaped the landscape of British music in the late 20th century. 8 Songs for a Mad King is a melodrama with a libretto based on the real-life observations of King George III, presenting an extravagant and disturbing portrayal of his condition. 

Vocalising weirdly as he bemoans his fate, trying to teach his instrumentalist-birds to sing – our musicians becoming projections from within his own mind.

Manchester Camerata: 8 Songs for a Mad King

Carnatic music is widely considered to be the most ancient and pure form of music from the Indian subcontinent. With roots in deeply spiritual and Vedic traditions, it incorporates mathematical, rhythmic complexity, and raga to beautifully illustrate tales from Hindu mythology.#

Rushil Ranjan is a multidisciplinary artist. His work in contemporary, Sufi, and classical music has earned him a reputation as one of the most distinctive and extraordinary musical voices around today. With his Orchestral Qawwali Project, Rushil has played at the Albert Hall and toured to great critical acclaim.

Manchester Camerata: माया Māyā (An Orchestral Exploration of Carnatic Music)