Youth Proms 'magical memory to treasure forever'

Performing Manx traditional music at the Royal Albert Hall in London was a memory to "treasure forever", the singer in a group of young musicians has said.

Scran, whose members range in age from 13 to 17, took to the stage earlier this month as part of the Music for Youth Proms.

One of the UK's most prestigious music events for young performers, during its 50-year existence it has showcased the early talents of artists including Nigel Kennedy and Dame Evelyn Glennie.

Manx Gaelic singer, 13-year-old Aalish, said performing at the renowned venue "felt so magical", adding: "It was such an honour to play at the Royal Albert Hall - it's a huge opportunity for Scran."

Supported by Culture Vannin, Scran – which is Manx Gaelic for common people – was originally founded in 2014.

The group is made up of musicians who have been part of the youth music movement Bree, run by Culture Vannin for players aged between 12 and 18.

The current line-up includes young musicians who are mentored by Manx fiddle and keyboard player David Kilgallon.

The Royal Albert Hall show saw them entertain the audience with a seven-minute set that included traditional Manx music and Gaelic song.

Harpist Resa, 15, said "carrying our island's traditions and culture into one of the most iconic venues in the world" had been a "once‑in‑a‑lifetime experience".

"To share our music with such a huge audience, surrounded by so many other talented young performers, felt both humbling and electrifying," she said, adding it was "a moment of pride not just for us, but for Manx culture".

Fellow harp player Alyth agreed it had been "truly the greatest experience" and "definitely a moment I will carry with me forever".

She said: "Standing on that stage, surrounded by my friends and the sound of Manx music filling such a legendary space, was both surreal and incredibly moving.

"Singing Manx Gaelic on the stage felt so magical, and hearing the audience cheer at the end of our performance is a memory I, and I'm sure the rest of the band, will treasure forever," Aalish added.

The trip, organised by Culture Vannin's Manx music development officer Chloe Woolley, also saw the group take part in the premiere performance of Causeway.

The new work by Scottish composer Aileen Sweeney, inspired by the folklore of the Giant's Causeway, was performed by 1,000 young musicians and a 450-strong children's choir.

That project, which featured lyrics by poet Iona Lee, was a collaboration between BBC Ten Pieces, the Royal Schools of Music exam board ABRSM, and the Royal Albert Hall.

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