Nigel Kennedy

Surrounded by classical musicians amongst his family growing up, British violin virtuoso Nigel Kennedy developed his love for music from the age of ten inspired by jazz great Fats Waller. Having attended some of the most prestigious performing arts institutions such as Juilliard’s from the age of sixteen, Kennedy was already well on his way to beginning his illustrious classical career. Making his recording debut in 1984 with Elgar’s Violin Concerto, Kennedy followed this by recording Vivaldi’s classic ‘Four Seasons’ with the British Chamber Orchestra in 1989 which having sold over two million copies became the best-selling classical recording of all time. Having built an impressive reputation over the last 25 years, Kennedy has travelled the world and played the Royal Variety Performance and in 1997 he was awarded an accolade for Outstanding Contribution to British Music at the BRIT Awards. All eyes are firmly affixed on Kennedy when he takes the stage, the magic he so effortlessly creates is mesmerising as he delves into his own compositions as well as taking on incredible renditions of artists such as Jimi Hendrix and The Doors. Kennedy has a knack of accommodating a wide range of audience members with his eclectic mix of influences shining through. With his enthusiastic and emphatic performances, you can forget about thinking classical music is dull- Kennedy revives the genre making it both exciting and accessible whilst providing some of the most palatable and incredible musical delights.

I went to see Nigel Kennedy at The Bridgewater Hall in Manchester he had a small select group of fellow musicians there was a cello, piano (which Kennedy actually played very well), double bass, 2 guitars one Spanish ayed by a New Yorker. Pure brilliance from start to finish. You must see this guy, all the other musicians had sheet music, Kennedy had none!