The motion-picture element of Bethia uses repurposed archival footage from the British Film Institute and Yorkshire Film Archive to create something new and abstract; the idea of old and new is something that repeats throughout the entire work, both in the visuals and within the music. Visually, the footage of Hull’s former maritime industry (i.e. … Continued
Bethia Film No.1 The Carillon Bells of Hull from Daniel Elms on Vimeo. The world premiere of Bethia is just under two months away. A lot of work has gone into the new piece by both myself and a collection of talented individuals, whose work has been paramount in realising my vision of the piece. … Continued
On January 1st, Hull City of Culture opened with a firework display over the Humber and some incredible projection works throughout the city, such as Made in Hull by Zsolt Balogh, which illuminated the facades of Queen Victoria Square. Another projection work, (In) Dignity of Labour by Make Amplify, was not only technically brilliant, but … Continued
In the heat of scribbling furiously on to manuscript paper, it’s easy to lose track of time — a process my first music tutor referred to, curiously, as “wood shedding”. Bethia, my commission for Hull City of Culture 2017 — my wooden shed — is progressing steadily, but the music itself is asking questions about … Continued
The last fortnight has been extremely busy with various recordings and performances, and there are many exciting developments from the latest PRSF New Music Biennial composers’ gathering that I look forward to sharing, but that will have to wait, as I promised some information about a certain Grand Organ and its importance to the city … Continued
The building of Hull’s Holy Trinity Church commenced round about 1300, it was halted during the Black Death, and was completed in the early 15th century; it’s the oldest brick building still standing in the British Isles that serves its original purpose; it was defaced by mobs during the Reformation, housed the city’s fire engine, … Continued
On 22nd September 2016 the first “season” of Hull City of Culture 2017 was announced. The creative team behind City of Culture delivered a strong and passionate message, which was interspersed by musical performances, poetry readings and a collection of short films. The response to this announcement has been overwhelmingly positive across national press, websites … Continued
In just over three months’ time, as fireworks and good cheer ring in the new year, the city of Kingston upon Hull will take up the mantle of City of Culture 2017. Few specifics concerning the year’s cultural events have been made public since Hull won the bid for the title back in November 2013, … Continued