Nairn tenor returns to hometown with tribute to Highlands and Scottish music
An acclaimed young tenor from Nairn is set to return to his hometown for a special recital this month (April 19).
Performing alongside celebrated pianist Anna Tilbrook, Glen Cunningham will bring on stage My Heart’s in the Highlands, a personal and heartfelt journey through music connected to Scotland.
Inspired by his Highland heritage, the performance will involve Scottish music new and old, native and international.
A Music Nairn spokesperson said: “A highlight of the programme is a newly commissioned work by fellow Highlander Stuart MacRae, setting five poems by Robert Louis Stevenson.
“The concert, which features music from Cunningham’s album My Heart’s in the Highlands released on Delphian Records, also includes Schumann’s settings of Robert Burns’ poetry, showcasing the Scottish bard’s influence on the world of lieder, alongside arrangements of Burns’ songs by Scottish composers.
“It promises to be an extraordinary evening of world-class music, celebrating Scotland’s rich musical heritage through the artistry of two internationally renowned performers.”
Mr Cunningham, who graduated with first-class honours from the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland before completing his master’s and postgraduate studies at the Royal College of Music’s Opera Studio, has since performed internationally.
His credits include roles at the Opéra national du Rhin and appearances with Glyndebourne Festival Opera and Scottish Opera.
His performance as the title role in Albert Herring at the Lammermuir Festival with Scottish Opera last year was described by a critic from The Times as “the finest performance I’ve seen in an opera all year.”
Leading pianist Ms Tilbrook is renowned for her exceptional work in song recitals and chamber music.
The concert will be on Saturday, April 19 at 7.30pm at the Nairn Community & Arts Centre — tickets can be purchased through the centre online (www.nairncc.co.uk), in person or calling 01667 453476.
