Through The Noise describes itself as “the future of live classical music”, and that might just be true! Having recently hosted artists such as Alexandra Whittingham and Abel Selaocoe, Through The Noise is bringing classical music out of its shell and into London’s vibrant gig scene. With its ‘Noisenight’ series, Through The Noise invites the finest in emerging and established classical talent to dazzle crowds outside of the traditional concert hall setting… and people are loving it!

As one of the world's brightest rising stars, to see Sheku Kanneh-Mason play in the intimate setting of the Jazz Cafe Camden with long-time friend Harry Baker was an absolute treat. With a myriad of accolades under his belt (just a casual two BRIT awards, an MBE at 21, and being voted Best Classical Artist at the Global Awards), it is no surprise that the venue was completely packed out.

Sheku and pianist Harry Baker played everything you wouldn't expect them to play, which was exactly the right repertoire for the Jazz Cafe. From covers to original compositions and even some improvisatory moments, the duo had the crowd hooked from start to finish. Pieces like Lullaby for Kamila by Nigel Kennedy, Cry Me a River by Arthur Hamilton and Something in the Way She Moves by James Taylor were the perfect choices to show the breadth of the duo's talents. Painted with artistic subtleties, sensitivity to the lyrical content and some fun jazz moments, this allowed the audience to witness two true professionals having fun playing the music they love.

Sheku Kanneh-Mason - Cry Me a River (Arr. for Cello and Piano)

ShekuKannehMasonVEVO

The highlight of the evening came as a bit of a surprise. Although one would expect these artists to perform a classical work, which they did, they added their own genius spin to it. Performing their own improvised version of a famous JS Bach Violin Partita, they introduced it in a way that made it accessible to those who may not know the inherent complexities of what the pair were about to perform. This piece also would've tickled the fancies of classical aficionados as they took something expected, and turned it into the unexpected. This improvisation was the perfect opportunity for the pair to display their incredible connection, which clearly goes deeper than just a surface-level professional relationship. The improvisation gave Sheku the opportunity to showcase his incredible technical capabilities on the cello, and showed the pair's deep understanding of classical music and beyond. For those who know Bach, although improvised, the phrasing and understanding of harmonic content (on the fly!) was so accurate that one would've thought Bach had written this himself. Enthralling to watch from start to finish.

The programme also featured original compositions by Harry Baker (Fair thee Well) and Sheku Kanneh-Mason (Melody). These additions show that today as a young artist, one must be comfortable taking on the role of more than just a performer. During the concert, the pair demonstrated their skills, not only as incredible musicians but also as arrangers, composers and friendly presenters.

Sheku Kanneh-Mason: Tiny Desk Concert

NPR Music

Through the Noise has done it again, showcasing two truly world-class musicians in a setting that made the audience feel like we were all friends just watching two artists performing music they love. The next noisenight on December 10th will showcase Brazillian guitarist Plínio Fernandes at the Jago Dalston and is surely not to be missed.

LISTEN TO SHEKU KANNEH-MASON NOW ON QOBUZ!

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