13
Making Tracks has featured some superb artists over the years, from which we’ve been treated to some extraordinary collaborations and crossovers that stretch boundaries and create new opportunities for those involved.
Making Tracks returns this autumn with a fresh lineup of eight extraordinary musicians from around the world, including talents from the UK, Syria, Kenya, Denmark, Finland, and Xinjiang. These artists will embark on a journey of musical exploration and collaboration inspired by diverse cultures and the natural world. The project brings together these talented individuals for a two-week rural residency at Cove Park in Scotland, where they will incubate new, original works – including several pieces that reflect this year’s theme: Oceans. Following the residency, the musicians will embark on a two-week concert tour, sharing their innovative creations with audiences across the UK (tour dates below). After each project, an album is released of the new collaborations created at the Making Tracks residency, recorded live during the Making Tracks tour. 30% of all proceeds go to conservation projects at UK National Parks.
Listen to their 2021 album below, which provides ample evidence of the boundless possibilities this project helps to seed and promote.
A Unique Approach to Music-Making
At the heart of Making Tracks is the belief that intercultural and interspecies approaches to music have the power to unite people and foster a deeper appreciation for cultural diversity and biodiversity. The project encourages musicians to engage in a non-hierarchical, listening-based approach, where diversity is seen as something to learn from and treasure. New musical overlaps emerge through this process, as artists explore novel ways to connect across cultural and species boundaries.
Intercultural and Interspecies Themes
Making Tracks delves into the concept of intercultural music-making, where diverse traditions merge, creating rich, unexpected musical dialogues. By embracing an inclusive, non-hierarchical approach, the project cultivates an environment where musicians can experiment with new forms of expression and collaboration.
The program also explores the theme of interspecies music-making, inspired by the belief that music is a form of communication that can transcend species. Previous collaborations have responded to the songs of birds, and this year’s theme—Oceans—invites participants to extend their listening practices beyond human interactions to include other species, embodying a practice of “deep listening” to the natural world.
Sustainable Touring Practices
Every year, artists from across Europe travel to the residency by train. By reducing the carbon footprint at source, the program aims to help pioneer new environmentally responsible touring practices. To further support this commitment, participating artists receive a daily stipend for every day spent in transit, turning the journey itself into an opportunity for reflection and dialogue about the role of music in addressing global environmental challenges.
Community Engagement and Workshops
In addition to the concert tour, Making Tracks is dedicated to fostering musical creativity among young people, particularly those facing barriers. The project will offer workshops alongside the concert program, providing opportunities for young participants to engage in collaborative music-making. Those attending these workshops receive complimentary tickets to the concerts, allowing them to experience the innovative performances created during the residency.
Meet the Artists
This year’s lineup brings together a diverse range of artists who embody the spirit of Making Tracks:
- Helen Anahita Wilson (UK) is an Oram award-winning composer, sound artist, and performer known for her groundbreaking music-making projects, collaborating with trees, plants, and other living beings. As the composer-in-residence at Chelsea Physic Garden in London, Helen’s unique interpretations of plant biodata have garnered support from BBC Radio 6 Music, BBC Radio 3, New Scientist and more.
- Ayman Hlal (Syria/Germany) is a Syrian-born violinist and singer whose music reflects a rich tapestry of influences, from Middle Eastern and classical music to flamenco and jazz. Once a rising star in Syria, Ayman fled the war and found refuge in Berlin, where he continues to grow as an artist. He has performed with numerous orchestras and bands across Europe, bringing his unique multicultural perspective and expressive style to audiences everywhere.
- Kasiva Mutua (Kenya) is one of Kenya’s leading female percussionists and drummers. Inspired by her grandmother’s folktales, she fuses African traditional music with jazz, hip-hop, reggae, funk, and more. As one of the few African women percussionists performing internationally, Kasiva’s music celebrates her community’s spirit and elevates the place of African women in music.
- Anna McLuckie (Scotland) is a Scottish singer, songwriter, and clàrsach player whose music blends classical and traditional roots with contemporary folklore. Her songs feature interweaving harmonies, story-led lyricism, and freeform structures, reflecting her love of popular music and experimental sounds.
- Nina Harries (UK) is a Grammy-nominated double bassist and vocalist. Known for her original compositions for the double bass and voice, Nina’s work is both ethereal and earthy. Inspired by modern life, ancient prose, and feminist realism, her music captivates with its profound and mesmeric qualities.
- Christian Mohr Levisen (Denmark) is a Danish hurdy-gurdy player and multi-instrumentalist, one of the few in Scandinavia to have studied this instrument formally. Christian brings his unique skills to diverse musical traditions, creating fresh sounds and interpretations.
- Ossi Raippalinna (Finland) is a percussionist, producer, researcher, educator, and drum-maker with a deep knowledge of West African drum traditions. His wide-ranging repertoire includes instruments like the talking drum, djembe, bodhran, sabar, and congas, informed by his travels to Senegal, Mali, Scotland, and Cuba.
- Shohret Nur (Xinjiang/UK) is an award-winning performer and master of Uyghur stringed instruments, the rawap and dutar. Continuing a rich musical lineage, Shohret’s performances reflect the deep cultural heritage of his native Xinjiang, China.
Making Tracks 2024 Tour
As Making Tracks returns this autumn, audiences are invited to experience a series of solo and collaborative performances that transcend cultural and species boundaries, offering fresh perspectives on music, diversity, and our relationship with the natural world.
September 20 – Cove Park, Helensburgh
September 24 – NCEM, York
September 26 – Stoller Hall, Manchester
September 27 – Firth Hall, Sheffield
September 28 – RWCMD, Cardiff
September 29 – St George’s, Bristol
October 1 – Norwich Arts Centre, Norwich
October 2 – Huntington Hall, Worcester
October 3 – Grand Junction, London
October 4 – Brighton Dome, Brighton
More here: https://makingtracksmusic.org/
