Cellist, multi-instrumentalist, composer and singer Naomi Berill and her trio are set to undertake an Irish tour. We asked Naomi the BIG questions . . .
Originally from Co. Galway and currently based in Florence, Naomi completed her musical studies in Scotland, Italy and Switzerland and began composing new material, arranging works from different musical genres and experimenting with cello technique, giving it focus as an accompanying instrument to the voice.
Inish, her latest album, was released last October.
Tour dates: 2 February Triskel Arts Centre, Cork, 3 February Music for Wexford, 6 February Lunchtime concert at Limerick Cathedral, 8 February An Taibhdhearc, Galway. 9 Feb Sugar Club, Dublin for Spike Cello festival. 11 Feb Duncairn Belfast.
We need your consent to load this Spotify contentWe use Spotify to manage extra content that can set cookies on your device and collect data about your activity. Please review their details and accept them to load the content.Manage Preferences
Tell us three things about yourself . . .
For me it's never too cold for a swim in the sea. I can take a quick nap anywhere (even on the back of a motorbike). I was born almost three months early, but I’m always late!
How would you describe your music?
A crafted combination of voice and cello, inspired by different musical genres.
Who are your musical inspirations?
Nina Simone for everything she represents, Rostropovich for the mark he made in history (not only musical) and whom I had the honour to be taught by. Björk for her uniqueness, Barbara Strozzi, as a female artist who defied her time as both a composer and singer in pre-Renaissance era, Brazilian singer Elis Regina, performer and composer Clara Schumann, the timelessness JS Bach’s music and the pure beauty of Henry Purcell’s harmonies. I admire Chris Thile and his diverse musical projects, Jacob Collier for his crazy creativeness, and Scottish folk singer Karine Polwart who says so much through her music.
What was the first gig you ever went to?
Stephane Grappelli (a few days before I was born, but I definitely heard it, they tell me I was dancing away).
What was the first record you ever bought?
Feeling Good - The Very Best of Nina Simone.
What’s your favourite song right now?
Can I give you two? Hozier - First Light, and the opening of Elegie from Serenade for Strings by Tchaikovsky.
Favourite lyric of all time?
"You’ve got to be brave and believe" - Declan O’Rourke.
If you could only listen to one song for the rest of your life, what would it be?
Chaccone from King Arthur by Henry Purcell.
Where can people find your music/more information?
By coming to hear a live concert of mine! Also, via Spotify, YouTube, iTunes, and info via my Instagram and Facebook pages.
Alan Corr
