British pianist Isata Kanneh-Mason and her brother, cellist Sheku Kanneh-Mason, perform at the National Concert Hall, Dublin on 24 April. We asked Isata the BIG questions . . .
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The eldest of the seven musically gifted Kanneh-Mason siblings (including Sheku, who became a household name after winning BBC Young Musician of the Year in 2016), Isata is committed to making classical music more accessible and diverse.
She studied at the Royal Academy of Music in London and performed internationally as a soloist and chamber musician. Her debut album, Romance - The Piano Music of Clara Schumann (2019), received critical acclaim and showcased her passion for overlooked female composers.
Tell us three things about yourself . .
I enjoy running for fitness and relaxation and it's a welcome change from sitting at the piano all day. I am an avid reader, and I read a range of books, but in general I prefer fiction because it's easier to lose yourself in it. I love to be outside, and my ideal holiday would involve lots of walking. My favourite places to walk have been in Verbier, Switzerland and also in Wales, in particular Snowdonia.
How would you describe your music?
It’s hard to describe my music in one way because there is such a range of expression in classical music, and I am always very focused on bringing as much out of each piece as possible and expressing both what the composer would have wanted and what I feel about the work.
Who are your musical inspirations?
My musical inspirations are Rachmaninoff, Martha Argerich, Beyoncé and Bob Marley.
What was the first gig you ever went to?
I know that it was a production of La Traviata at the theatre in Nottingham and I was about eight years old and I loved it and felt very inspired.
What was the first record you ever bought?
The first time I ever bought a CD was NOW 70 when I was about 11!
What’s your favourite song right now?
Denial is a River by Doechii.
Favourite lyric of all time?
"Emancipate yourself from mental slavery" - Bob Marley.
If you could only listen to one song for the rest of your life, what would it be?
Rachmaninoff’s Third Piano Concerto.
Where can people find your music/more information?
On my website, and on my Instagram and on EMM (my management) and Decca Classics!
Alan Corr
