|
The concept of fusing traditional music and jazz was the impetus for the formation of this exciting duo. Familiar melodies combined with a new and fresh twist produce a sound both beautiful and complex with rich harmonies, weaving lines and driving rhythms. By using a combination of traditional and free bass accordions, fiddle and piano Murray and Amy create an eclectic mix of music from the UK, Ireland, Scandinavia and Europe, blended with their own original and unique compositions.
Amy Thatcher - Amy Thatcher, having been schooled by the renowned Fosbrooks Folk Education Trust, is establishing an enviable reputation as a highly accomplished performer and teacher. As well as the accordion Amy plays the piano, the fiddle and is a talented traditional dancer and she has performed at many of the major festivals:
Celtic Connections
Sidmouth International Festival
Dranouter Festival
Whitby
Edinburgh Festival Fringe
She has performed and worked with many performers and groups and has toured Britain and Europe. Amy has worked with:
Kathryn Tickell
Karen Tweed
The Chase
Maria Kalaniemi
She is also reputed as a talented composer of traditional music, with a particular interest in the use of the free-bass accordion in folk culture. She is currently working on a book of her music with Murray, check the news page for furthur information!
Murray Grainger - Murray Grainger is recognised as one of the most influential young accordionists in Britain today. Trained as a classical accordionist at the Royal Academy of Music, Murray has established himself as a multi-disciplined musician as well as a reputed teacher. Murray is an accomplished Folk and Jazz musician and works extensively in this area. As well as performing with Amy, Murray is a member the duo Non Sequitor (with violinist Dara de Cogan), a five piece Irish band (Mahogany Gaspipes) and a five piece folk funk band (9th Reason). He has toured Britain and Europe and performs regularly at festivals around the country. Performances to date include -
Folk Est (Italy)
Festival Interceltic de Lorient
Sidmouth Festival
Celtic Connections
Edinburgh International Festival
Murray has appeared with the top orchestras and ensembles as well as giving solo and chamber recitals. He has broadcast on BBC Radio Three and Radio Scotland as well as working with composers on the development of a new repertoire for the accordion. Performances to date include -
BBC Symphony Orchestra
Scottish Chamber Orchestra
Northern Sinfonia
BBC Promenade Series
Scottish Ballet Orchestra
Almeida Opera
Lontano
As a teacher Murray is much in demand, having taught at Chetham’s School of Music, Sage Gateshead, Liverpool Hope University, the Orkney Traditional Music Project, Stornoway Youth Music Project, Fosbrooks Folk Education Trust and in Europe.
|
