The Quaich Project is holding an event in New York to launch an international fundraising campaign and they want to take a young Scottish musician with them to perform alongside some big Scottish stars.
The project began with a private donation of £5 million from Edinburgh businessman Norman Springford which he provided to help refurbish the Ross Fountain and to create a new arts space in West Princes Street Gardens. The fountain has been renovated in a £2 million programme and now further millions are required.
Six Edinburgh artists are on the shortlist for the exclusive event on 19 October 2019 at the Kaplan Penthouse on the 10th floor of the Lincoln Center.
The Quaich Project North American Ambassador Alan Cumming OBE will host the event which will feature singer KT Tunstall, actress and singer Alexandra Silber and sculptor Andy Scott.
You can now vote on The Quaich Project’s website at www.thequaichproject.org from today for your favourite from the list which includes singers, guitarists, a clarsach player and a cellist.
Actor Alan Cumming OBE said: “Scotland, and Edinburgh in particular, has such a rich and diverse cultural scene and I’m excited to showcase some of the best of it to New York.
“As a Scot, I’m fiercely proud of the history of my country, but I share The Quaich Project’s vision of marrying that history with a space that champions inclusivity, artistry and nature.”
Singer KT Tunstall commented: “I remember when I first started playing in New York as an up and coming musician, it was such a massive thrill. I‘m excited for all the new artists shortlisted to play the celebration of Scottish culture to have that similar experience.
“Representing Edinburgh in such an iconic venue is a huge privilege and I wish each and every finalist the very best of luck. Get online and vote for your favourite!”
The shortlisted musicians are:
Solo acoustic guitarist, Hannah uses open tunings to create a combination of bass chords and melody. Most of her compositions are inspired by traditional, Scottish ballads and have a folk feel about them. She is currently studying music at Edinburgh Napier University and has been gigging in pubs and bars across the city for the past three years.
The last man standing, Rufus is a cellist who blends classical, blues and American old-time styles with the Scottish fiddle tradition of Niel Gow. Alongside the smooth classical tones of the cello, Rufus includes strong rhythmic and percussive elements to his music. Edinburgh ultimately sparked his passion for music and art during stays with his grandmother in Portobello.
Alexandra Thom (21)
Alexandra is a singer and songwriter as well as a producer of electronic music. She counts Royksopp and Amber Coffman among her inspiration alongside the city of Edinburgh and its vibrant musical and artistic culture. Like Hannah, Alexandra is also a student at Edinburgh Napier University and moved to Edinburgh from Stirling three years ago.
A student since 2016, Alannah is a singer/songwriter who describes her music as an eclectic mix of folk, rock, pop and blues. She credits Edinburgh and its music scene (especially Tuesday Jam Nights at the Doghouse bar) for helping her grow as an artist.
From a family tradition of Scottish folk musicians, Ada grew up around the music that would shape her Clarsach-playing style. Her music is a blend of traditional and modern influences, which she says echoes the contrasts in Edinburgh’s architecture and personalities.
Since moving to the UK in 2012, Tania has called Leith, Meadowbank and now Gorgie, home. A classical soprano singer, she studies at the Edinburgh College of Art and is interested in experimental and alternative performance formats.
Watch the videos and vote for your favourite on The Quaich Project website: www.thequaichproject.org.
Voting closes at 9am on Monday 30 September.
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