News from our members

Above: Simon Callaghan performing with BBC Now Photo: Yusef Bastawy

Right: James Smith Photo: Jon White Photography Krebs harpsichord works on disc

Steven Devine has released the first in a multi-disc survey of the complete harpsichord works of Johann Ludwig Krebs (1713 -1780). Although a favoured student of J.S. Bach, Krebs didn’t see any substantial success in his own lifetime. More recent assessments have discovered a highly educated, enlightened and openminded musician who was clearly highly accomplished as a performer, demonstrating a fascinating synthesis of Baroque, Galant and Classical forms. Krebs’ music is well-crafted, quirky, and – by turns – profound and playful. Using a fine copy of a German harpsichord made by Colin Booth, h this recording has been described by t BBC Music Magazine as ‘a felicitous B programme, meticulously realised, p that sheds light on Bach’s talented t pupil’ and awarded five stars. Johann p Ludwig Krebs: Keyboard Works, L Volume 1 is available from Resonus V Classics as RES10287. C Light music delight from Simon Callaghan and BBC NOW

Pianist Simon Callaghan, conductor Martyn Brabbins and the BBC National Orchestra of Wales (BBC NOW) have released a new recording which draws on the lighter side of musical life in repertoire which cannot fail to provoke a smile! Smaller concertos for piano and modest orchestral forces were a feature of British composition in the first half of the 20th century, often written for a special occasion. As is often the case with first performances, these works were typically destined to vanish into oblivion thereafter, and this new recording seeks to re-establish their place in the repertoire as exciting and vibrant pieces which will bring joy and intrigue to the listener. The album includes works by Addison, Benjamin, Geoffrey Bush, Maconchy, Rubbra and Searle. For further information please visit simoncallaghan.com New Media Production Facility launches in Hampshire, UK!

Deer Park Studios is a brand new music production facility specialising in music production for film, television and library music. Based in Southampton UK, and spearheaded by the relentless composer James Smith, Deer Park Studios has come to life straight out of the gates. We have already gained numerous clients and contracts all around the world since our launch in February 2022. From being signed to production libraries in LA, providing music to the BBC, gaining international award nominations and recording our music at the home of the City of Prague Philharmonic Orchestra we are thrilled to be setting out into this industry.

‘As a new production studio we are looking to provide our directors with high quality music that resonates with their films and captures the imagination of viewers.’ Join us for this exciting first year: instagram.com/deerparkstudios deerparkstudios.org

Noah Max releases debut album

My debut album Songs of Loneliness has just been released by Toccata Classics, writes Noah Max. It is produced by Andrew Keener and features a number of ISM members.

When the UK was locked down in March 2020 I began writing new solo and chamber works. Collaborating remotely became a lifeline, giving my colleagues and me a sense of hope. The most ambitious project to emerge from lockdown is my debut album Songs of Loneliness which brings together first recordings of seven of my works. It combines music written during the pandemic with earlier pieces including the Clements Prize-winning string trio Sojourn. The spirit of chamber music is at the heart of everything I do and imbues all the music I write; this runs in contrast with threads of introspection and loss which weave through the disc. Songs of Loneliness – Solos, Duos and Trios is available from music retailers and from Toccata Classics, Naxos, Amazon – why not share your review! Performance materials available from United Music Publishing: ump.co.uk/ composer/noah-max/ The Inclusive Voice course with Vocal Health Education

Singing teacher and vocal health expert Jenevora Williams and her colleagues at Vocal Health Education have launched The Inclusive Voice course, for singing teachers and choral leaders who want to learn about inclusivity and working with special needs and disabilities. ‘It is so important for us to include everyone in our community in healthy voice use, so we have included 10 hours of specialised, expertly delivered content for you,’ writes Jenevora. ‘This course information is applicable whether you work in mainstream education settings, community groups, or the 1-2-1 studio. There are a wide range of special needs and disabilities covered by experts in the field, providing useful resources and tips to inform your teaching. Learn what to consider when taking on a new student, how to optimise your learning environment for their needs, communication skills, learning theories, incorporating creative technology, and more! We also hear valuable contributions from people about their own experiences of a variety of additional needs.’ vocalhealth.co.uk/inclusive-voice/

Left: Noah Max – first rehearsal of Vignette back in 2019

Obituaries: We are sorry to announce the deaths of the following members: Mrs Mary M Brewer of Stowmarket Miss Christina Warner MISM of Leicestershire