Born Martin Aelred Colgan in Govan (Glasgow, Scotland), Martin Aelred was raised in Australia where his family moved when he was one year old.

Martin Aelred is a well-known Composer/Musician/Singer. In recent years he is best known for his work as a classical tenor. His accomplishments include early work as a session musician to Duran Duran, and for Classic FM Hall of Fame composer Stuart Mitchell.

He is one of those artists who really takes you by surprise. He is an accomplished musician who has had a long and winding career in music to date. Colgan started out fronting bands, before making his production debut with Juni Morrison of P Funk in 1992. He went on to enjoy minor success as a producer with UK artists such as Soul II Soul, Jocelyn Brown and Sinitta.

Colgan’s utmost passion, however, seems to be the guitar. Indeed, he went on to study flamenco and classical guitar in Scotland under the teachings of the legendary French virtuoso Manitas de Plata. Not only does he play this instrument, but he can also play cello, piano and violin. Not to mention that he is a trained opera singer who can verse fluently in Italian, Spanish and French.

He has worked as Operatic tenor for the ENO Scottish Opera, Director of Music to HH The Dalai Lam (by invitation), The Diva Project and The Rosslyn Motet Choir (with Stuart Mitchell).

Martin has an extensive back catalogue, but his most recent album releases include:

Last Boat to St. Helena 2021 (Folk / Indie)

My Love Is like a Red Red Rose (The Music Of Robbie Burns) 2022

World Sacred Chants 2023 (Benedictine and Gregorian Chants)

He is currently working on a film soundtrack and a new Gaelic album entitled The Northern Lights

Link to Martin Aelred Colgan lyric video showreel: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=os-WpwGwe8o

Film Composer Showreel: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0_KmR2IfESs&t=654s

The Indigo Rising's discography is a testament to the enduring spirit of music and the indelible mark it leaves on both artists and listeners. It's a story of triumph and tribulation, creativity, and camaraderie, and above all, the tenacity to push through adversity.

The saga begins with the charismatic Andy Race, whose legacy as a vocalist, songwriter, guitarist, and producer is etched into the band's DNA. His untimely departure was a profound loss, yet it also serves as a catalyst to share The Indigo Rising's unreleased works, bringing closure to the beautiful journey they embarked on together.

Originally finding their stride under the moniker "BLOOM," their self-released debut, "All That Is," was met with critical and commercial success, particularly resonating in Italy where it achieved gold status. A burgeoning international presence was curtailed by a series of unfortunate events, including the collapse of their UK distributor and financial betrayal by their Italian promoter. These setbacks led to a hiatus, with members exploring solo ventures and other collaborations, but the bond of friendship kept the group's core intact.

Andy Race's solo endeavour as Jackson Nova resulted in "A Constant State of Change," an album that showcased his evocative vocal prowess. His performances, such as those at The Bedford in Balham, earned him a spot at Canada's North by Northeast festival and caught the attention of industry veterans, including Chris Kimsey of Rolling Stone fame.

His final studio effort, "Harmonic Sun," was a passion project, embodying raw emotion and soulful depth. It was during this time that the band reunited, rebranding themselves as The Indigo Rising to signal a fresh chapter in their artistic journey. However, as plans for new releases and comeback performances took shape, Andy's diagnosis with cancer brought a solemn turn to their narrative.

In true solidarity, The Indigo Rising retreated into the studio, supporting Andy in fulfilling his final musical wish—to share the music they had crafted together. The posthumous release of "Harmonic Sun" and subsequent albums from the band's extensive catalogue are not just records but embodiments of Andy's spirit and the group's collective heart.

While The Indigo Rising may not grace the mainstream spotlight, their music is a trove of authenticity and soul waiting to be discovered. It stands as a poignant reminder of Andy's artistry and the band's unwavering dedication to their craft. In sharing their story and their sounds, The Indigo Rising invites listeners to keep Andy's memory alive and resonate with the timeless narrative their music weaves.

For more on their legacy and to explore their music, visit www.theindigorising.com

Born in Surrey, England, in 1969, Jenna Leigh-Raine spent her early years in Rio de Janeiro before returning to the UK to complete her schooling. She began her musical journey at the age of 14, writing song lyrics. At 15, she received her first guitar from her mother and started taking drum lessons with Alan Roberts in 1984.

Jenna was part of the 80s synth rock duo, Lonely Crystal Child, from 1983 to 1986. After the duo disbanded, she went solo in 1987, recording demos and performing live around Windsor, Berkshire. She completed her first solo record in 1984 and signed a recording and management deal with Solid Xperiment in Paris for WEA in 1990.

In 2005, Jenna signed a two-track deal with the sub-label God Made Me Hardcore, run by Richard Norris and Andy Chatterley. She continued to expand her career by signing a deal with EML Library in 2016 and with the publishing company Ronall Worldsong Music/Supreme Songs UK in 2019.

Jenna has released fifteen albums between 1986 and 2023. Her single "Horror Side" was released in April 2023, followed by her album "Bloodsand" in January 2024.

Welland's musical journey began in the corridors of his school, in Port Elizabeth, South Africa, where a budding interest in folk and rock music took root. Drawing inspiration from life's tapestry, his early compositions reflected a deep connection with personal experiences. His passion led him to perform in various bands and at the Four Winds Folk Club, where icons like The Rolling Stones and Bob Dylan fuelled his creative fire.

The 1960s marked the beginning of Welland's songwriting career, laying down tracks in studios across his hometown of Port Elizabeth. By the time he married Margie, Welland had compiled an extensive collection of his work on tapes and CDs, harbouring the dream that his music would one day be covered by renowned artists. His participation in the UK Songwriting Competition, with the semi-finalist entry "Lisa Don't You Cry," highlighted his potential. Yet, despite local radio play on Algoa FM, the wider recognition he yearned for remained elusive, casting shadows of doubt over his aspirations.

In a twist of fate, 2010 saw Welland and his wife relocating to Sedgefield, near George, for semi-retirement. It was there, in Darryl de Lange's studio, that a new chapter began. Encouraged to reach out to Hummdrumm Records in London, Welland found a receptive audience in producers and music publishers Andrea Gottardo and Ronny Anderson. His music, brought to life by local talents like Louise Gains, found a new home on digital platforms, rekindling his hope.

The turning point came unexpectedly, amidst the clutter of his garage. A dusty box yielded a long-forgotten CD recorded over a decade earlier at Ari Terblanche's studio with Robyn Herselman in Grotto Bay. Among its treasures was "Windsong," a piece that resonated with Welland as powerfully as it had when first conceived. This rediscovered gem, swiftly sent to Hummdrumm, was transformed into a lyric video, breathing new life into a once-lost love song.

"Windsong" stands as a testament to Welland's enduring passion and resilience, a melody reborn from the ashes of doubt. It is a reminder that within forgotten dreams, lies the potential for revival and recognition.

Formed in London, England in late 1996, Toucan emerged as a vibrant two-piece singer-songwriter group that quickly distinguished itself with its innate songwriting prowess. The duo consisted of Virginia "Ginny" Fiol, a multifaceted artist with a talent for acting and lyricism, and Dominic Sutton, a gifted musician responsible for the group's melodies and acoustic guitar performances. Their collaboration was marked by a serendipitous meeting, leading Dominic to approach Hummdrumm Records with the hope of securing development and publication. Armed with demo tapes that showcased their exceptional talent, the duo's unique sound was immediately recognized by the label.

Toucan's music offers a deeply personal female perspective on life in London during the 1990s, reflecting the era's vibrancy and challenges. The partnership with Hummdrumm Records opened doors to collaboration with the Independent Music Publishing Group, which assigned A&R manager Andy Ellis to further develop the group's potential. Under Ellis's guidance, Toucan began performing live at a venue near London Bridge, where they refined their songwriting and performance skills, growing in confidence with each show.

By 1998, Toucan had crafted a collection of 12 songs, recorded in a makeshift studio located in Walthamstow. Among these tracks, "Sitting Pretty" stood out and was remixed by Anthony Atcherley into a breakbeat rendition, later released on vinyl. The collaboration with producer Peter Alexander in his "Treehouse" attic studio brought a new depth and vision to their music, highlighting the duo's ability to evolve and adapt their sound.

Despite their initial success, the decision to expand the group led to unforeseen challenges. The addition of new members, while intended to enhance the band's sound, inadvertently compromised the delicate balance of Ginny's vocals against the instrumentation. The overpowering bass drowned out the subtleties of her voice, leading to creative differences and, ultimately, the decision to disband.

However, the story of Toucan didn't end with their separation. The original recordings, preserved over the years, were released from 2017 onwards with the blessing of Ginny and Dominic. These posthumous releases serve as a testament to Toucan's enduring legacy, offering listeners a glimpse into the raw honesty and unique perspectives that defined their brief but impactful journey through the music scene of the 1990s. Even decades later, Toucan's music continues to resonate, a timeless reflection of their artistic vision and emotional depth.

Video showreel link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kQJDTmplMbs&t=2s

Release Titles: Knockin' On Heaven's Door, Back From Palookaville, Black Cat

Brandon Ambrose, hailing from the vibrant music scene in Essex, United Kingdom, is a noteworthy musician in the realm of Pop and Indie Pop. With his unique sound and captivating performances, Ambrose has garnered a loyal following and earned recognition as a skilled artist in the industry.

Ambrose's music effortlessly blends elements of Pop and Indie Pop, creating a sound that is both infectious and introspective. His compelling lyrics delve into themes of love, heartbreak, and self-discovery, resonating with listeners on a deep emotional level. With each song, Ambrose takes his audience on a journey, expressing his thoughts and feelings with a raw authenticity that is truly captivating.

Drawing inspiration from a diverse range of musical influences, Ambrose infuses his tracks with infectious melodies, catchy hooks, and rich harmonies. His music possesses a certain charm that can instantly uplift your spirits and make you want to dance. From upbeat anthems to soulful ballads, Ambrose showcases his versatility as an artist, effortlessly navigating between different sonic landscapes.

With his undeniable talent and passion for music, Brandon Ambrose has firmly established himself as a rising star in the Pop and Indie Pop genres. His captivating sound and heartfelt lyrics are a testament to his dedication and artistry. Whether it's through his energetic live performances or his carefully crafted studio recordings, Ambrose continues to leave an indelible mark on the music industry, captivating audiences and winning hearts along the way.

Link to Keep Me Breathing Lyric Video on You
Tube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tRXzHMOCOF4

Chloe Foston is a multi-talented artist who started her career as a pianist, winning the Morrison trophy for best junior performer/instrumentalist in her hometown of Arbroath in Scotland.

She later trained classically as a soprano and began her singing career performing in various theatre's, clubs and pubs across the United Kingdom. She is applauded for her tribute to Karen Carpenter and was thrilled to be chosen to perform as Karen Carpenter in Phoenix Arizona and Washington D.C in the United States.

Chloe is also a talented actress, with a degree from the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland, and has also appeared in several plays including "Razpunzel" and will appear in an upcoming production of "Two" written by Jim Cartwright. In addition to singing and acting, Chloe is also a songwriter who recently won an online competition organised by David Mindel, writer of the hit song "Don't throw it all away". She writes and performs her own sketches, which have become very popular on social media and can be viewed here on her website.

Chloe has vast experience as a singer and can perform many genres of music ranging from the 60's to present day.

Website:  https://www.chloefoston.com/

Names in the Sand Youube link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=25C30jOBKN4

Out of Southern Africa comes Eric Mc Callaghan, a producer and song writer with an innate talent to mix international sounds into one glorious magical wonder.

Signed to BMG Records Africa saw him quickly produce and record anything from local rock and pop remixes to originals that went onto international playlists and compilations.

Eric performs and DJ's as well, and has graced the dance floors of South Africa, from Cape Town to Johannesburg, for 25 years. He was resident for 5 years at SA's longest lasting super club, ESP.

Internationally he performed at events in Miami, New York, London, Antwerp, Amsterdam, Karachi and Gaborone. He lived a year in Doha, Qatar, where he was weekly resident at 5 star hotels. His last full - time residency was at Pure, the rooftop club in Doubletree Hilton, where he performed every night for 3 months.

When he returned to South Africa he held a residency at Vinyl on Main, the only nightclub in the tourist town of Knysna. July 2018 he was resident DJ and Sound Engineer at Zing Bar and Pub - the lounge of the 5 star DusitD2 Hotel in Nairobi Kenya. February 2019 he toured California USA and performed in San Diego, Los Angeles and San Francisco.

ACCOLADES

"Xplicit" (under his Heatseeker alias) was #1 in South

Africa and received the Best South African Dance Track award. It is released worldwide on more than 30 compilations.

"Reflections" received a South African Music Award Nomination

"Touch Faith" is an official Depeche Mode remix of Personal Jesus, and was #1 in Belgium, 8 week on the sales charts and Ultratop 40

"Woven" was #29 on the World DMC Trance Charts

Paul Oakenfold played "I'll Wait For You" at a 911 benefit concert in New York John '00' Flemming gave "Spinning" 4 1/2 out of 5 in Mixmag

DJ'ed in Doha, South Africa, Pakistan, Belgium, Holland, UK and in Miami during the WMC Released on more than 150 CD compilations, albums and singles

Released more than 180 published tracks on various labels on the internet Twenty 12" vinyl releases

Sold over a million CDs worldwide

Written over 350 published and released songs

MORE INFO LINKS

www.mixcloud.com/mccallaghan/ https://soundcloud.com/ericm-1 www.beatport.com/artist/ericm/13341 https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzpJbqKlY2Deb39LfdztxkQ

ALL ALBUMS AND RELEASES

https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1VY4r28nc-S7GfGv6jt21yKo4nCWD9XSa?usp=sharing

UK rock band Everafter burst onto the East London scene in Autumn 2010. Formed from the ashes of another band, brothers Alexis Daperis (lead vocals/guitars) and Stefan Daperis (bass/backing vocals) and their friend Tim Wiltshire (drums) launched the three-piece power rock group, Everafter. By February 2011 the first gig was booked at The White Hart Hotel in New Cross, South London. Over the next few years Everafter honed their live performances by playing key venues in London, including Water Rats in King's Cross, The Half Moon in Putney and The Standard Music Venue in Walthamstow. It was over this period that Everafter wrote the songs and defined the set that would become their debut album 'Everything Is One'. In September 2013 the band were signed to independent label Hummdrumm Records. The band’s main influences include Nirvana, Metallica and Green Day. 'Everything Is One' also benefited from the production prowess of the Grammy nominated Chris Tsangarides, who was also a fan and produced luminaries like Thin Lizzy, Black Sabbath and Judas Priest. Following the release of the band’s first album and a succession of gigs, Everafter played a show to the inmates inside Wormwood Scrubs prison, London.

In 2019, with new drummer and friend Ivan Sheppard, Everafter recorded their second album titled ‘Remember’. The band moved into a heavier direction with the latest studio recordings and the album showcases the strength and diversity of the band's song writing. This time Everafter collaborated with producers Raz Olsher, Andrea Gottardo and the late Chris Tsangarides to create a powerful ten track album, paving the way for the band’s place in rock history. In July 2020 album number two was released and the band incorporated the new songs into their set and received airplay on TotalRock Radio and Trust The Doc Radio Show on Exile FM.

In January 2022, Everafter recorded their last single ‘ASAP’ with producer Matt Williams at Soundlab Studios in Debden. The two new singles "Born To Rock" and "Hammer and Tongs" were produced in January 2024. Once again the band created a heavy sounding hard rock tracks and were really pleased with Matt’s production. Since then the guys have been writing new material and incorporating these songs into the lives show – they now have their sights on recording album number three.

Band Members:

Alexis Daperis – lead vocals/guitars

Stefan Daperis – bass/backing vocals

Ivan Sheppard – drums

Link to showreel – The Story Thus Far: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vmXLiPKc6vY&t=2419s

Born and raised in the UK, British singer Louise Gains, also known as Gainsyy, burst onto the music scene in 2017 with her signature soulful pop/jazz sound. She first gained attention by featuring on MCX's hip hop album Aspex with the track "Can't Kick the Habit," which led to a headline spot warming up for drum and bass DJ Andy C at the Blive Festival. Her previous release, XY Time, earned the support of BBC Radio 1Xtra, where she was chosen as DJ Target's Artist of the Week.

In 2020, Louise released her first solo EP, Learning to Dance, written and composed by Grammy Award-nominated Anders Hansson, known for his work on the track "Release Me" performed by Swedish artist Agnes. She continued to collaborate with notable artists, releasing Whispers in the Wind in 2021, written by Welland Cowley, Star of the Sky in 2022, written by Martin Aelred and Lisa Don't You Cry in 2023, another hit by Welland Cowley.

Before her music career took off, Louise had a passion for acting. In 2015, she played the lead role of Deloris Van Cartier in the award-winning show Sister Act at The Haymarket Theatre in Basingstoke. The show received eight nominations at the Curtain Call Awards, including a Best Actress nomination for Louise. She also appeared in the music video "Square One" by Damien Murdoch, directed by Aukes Media, which filmed the cinema hits Blue Story (2019) and Sumotherhood (2023).

Louise loves performing live and has been part of several bands. She toured with UKQUEEN, performing at the Legends Festival in 2022, and is currently a singer with the number one tribute band Never42, touring theatres and festivals across the UK.

Rare Malawi is a captivating collection of five initial albums that encapsulate the vibrant and diverse musical heritage of Malawi. This anthology, now available on all digital platforms, draws from a rich tradition of traditional music recorded during the 1950s, 1960s, and 1970s in the Radio Malawi Recording studios. These recordings, preserved on 2-inch master tapes in a carefully maintained library, have been meticulously converted to digital format, ensuring that this invaluable cultural legacy is accessible to music enthusiasts around the globe.

Volume 1: The Echoes of Tradition

The inaugural volume features the soulful rhythms and melodies that are the hallmark of Malawian traditional music. Highlighted artists include:

Donald Kachamba: A renowned musician known for his mastery of the African guitar and his innovative fusion of local styles with international influences.

Ndiche Mwalimu: Celebrated for his evocative vocal performances and intricate drumming, Ndiche’s tracks capture the essence of Malawian folk music.

Stella Chiweshe: An iconic mbira player whose haunting melodies and spiritual songs resonate deeply with listeners.

Volume 2: Dance and Celebration

This volume brings to life the energetic and celebratory spirit of Malawian dance music. Featured artists include:

Robert Fumulani and the Likhubula River Dance Band: Fumulani’s lively performances and infectious rhythms are a testament to the vibrant dance traditions of Malawi.

Madalitso Band: Known for their unique blend of traditional instruments and harmonies, their music is both uplifting and deeply rooted in local culture.

Allan Namoko: A pioneer in modernizing traditional sounds, Namoko’s tracks are a fusion of traditional and contemporary influences, perfect for dancing.

Volume 3: The Spiritual Journey

This volume explores the spiritual and ceremonial music that plays a crucial role in Malawian culture. Key artists include:

Lucy Dube: Her powerful voice and deeply spiritual lyrics have made her a respected figure in Malawian gospel music.

Giddes Chalamanda: A legendary musician whose songs reflect the spiritual journey and moral teachings of Malawian society.

Ethel Kamwendo: Renowned for her gospel music, Ethel’s performances are both uplifting and profoundly moving.

Volume 4: The Sounds of Nature

Volume 4 celebrates the natural world, reflecting Malawi’s deep connection to its environment. Notable artists include:

Michael Yekha: His music is characterized by the use of natural sounds and traditional instruments, creating an immersive auditory experience.

Francis Phiri: Phiri’s compositions often incorporate the sounds of nature, blending them seamlessly with traditional Malawian music.

Esther Magwaza: Her songs, rich with natural imagery and traditional instrumentation, evoke the beauty of Malawi’s landscapes.

Volume 5: The Modern Fusion

The final volume showcases the evolution of Malawian music, blending traditional sounds with modern influences. Featured artists include:

Lucius Banda: A prominent figure in Malawian music, Banda’s work bridges the gap between tradition and modernity.

Wambali Mkandawire: Known for his innovative approach, Mkandawire’s music incorporates jazz, blues, and traditional Malawian elements.

Lusubilo Band: Celebrated for their dynamic performances and fusion of various musical styles, reflecting the contemporary Malawian soundscape.

Rare Malawi is more than just a collection of albums; it is a window into the soul of a nation. Each track offers a glimpse into the rich cultural tapestry of Malawi, preserving the sounds and stories of a bygone era for future generations to cherish. Discover the timeless beauty of Malawian music on all digital platforms today.

Benjamin Mapochi : A Promising Voice in Contemporary Classical Music

Benjamin Mapochi  is an emerging composer whose work is characterized by its straightforward communication and sincere expression. With a style that eschews the complexities and obfuscations of avant-garde techniques, Ma presents his musical ideas with refreshing clarity and disarming candour. His compositions resonate with a free Romantic spirit, often incorporating influences that are openly and charmingly laid before the listener.

Mapochi's music, while not groundbreaking in its expressive language, stands out for its fresh melodic ideas and accessible style. His compositions are deeply rooted in familiar musical traditions, making them approachable to a wide audience. He draws inspiration from a variety of sources, including the elegant Romanticism of Richard Clayderman, the classic charm of Semprini, and the intricate yet popular appeal of Scott Joplin's ragtime. These influences are evident in works like "The Destiny Sonata," which blends a Saint-Saens-like Gallic flair with hints of Beethovenian vigour and Joplin's playful rhythms.

Among Mapochi's notable works are the dreamily melancholic "Septuple in Melancholy" for solo violin, the Schubertian "Fantasia" for string trio, and the gently soothing "Song Without Words" for piano and small chamber ensemble. His "Pastorale" for solo piano exudes a jolly, pastoral charm, while "Ali in Liberta" reflects a touch of Michael Nyman's minimalist influence. The "Conzia Carissima" for piano, two clarinets, and two cellos showcases elements reminiscent of Bach and Schubert, weaving classical references into his unique voice.

Mapochi's compositions, typically concise and chamber-focused, cater to contemporary listeners' shorter attention spans. His pieces are brief yet impactful, with the longest track on his debut album running just over seven minutes. While the orchestral performance of his one-movement symphony by the Shanghai Philharmonia Orchestra under Li Jian Ping's baton might suffer from technical flaws, it hints at Ma's ambitious vision, drawing inspiration from where Beethoven's "Eroica" and Schubert's "Unfinished" symphonies leave off.

Despite some criticisms of the orchestral execution, Mapochi's chamber works are well-received, and the recording quality of these pieces is commendable. His practical and insightful notes enhance the listening experience, providing a deeper understanding of his musical intentions. While his debut may not fully realize the lofty ambitions behind it, Mapochi's sincerity and promise as a composer are evident. His music, though still developing, offers a glimpse into a bright future.

Benjamin Mapochi is a name to watch in the contemporary classical music scene. His ability to blend traditional influences with fresh, tuneful ideas marks him as a composer with great potential. As he continues to refine his craft and explore new musical landscapes, Mapochi’s work is sure to captivate and inspire a growing audience. Discography: Variations (Double CD)

 Forbidden Dance (Concept Album)

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Benjamin Ma – hashtags for showreel

#BenjaminMapochi #WellnessMusic #MindfulnessMusic #ContemporaryClassical #EmergingComposer #RomanticSpirit #ClassicalElegance #SunsetSymphony #RaindropsOnMemories #SunsetRomance #BalletTriste #TheFirstRose #ChoraleInSole #LAmourEnVain #DancingWater #ExsultateJubilate #MindfulMoments #CalmMelodies #MusicForTheSoul #MeditativeMusic #SoothingTunes #FreshMelodies #AccessibleClassical #ChamberMusic #MelancholicDreams #MusicalHarmony #WellnessJourney #MindfulListening #ClassicalInfluences #SincereExpression #MelodicCharm #ElegantRomanticism #PastoralCharm #MusicalJourney #MusicForWellness

Annelien Kirsten, an accomplished performer and composer, was raised in Vereeniging, South Africa. Her most recent project is the musical Normandy Remembered, which she has been passionately developing for the past decade.

In her own words, Kirsten explains her inspiration and dedication to her craft:

“I have always believed in the power of music and dance to carry a message and to tell a story. As Irving Berlin once said: 'I believe in two types of music. Good music and bad music. And good music is anything that could reach out and grab the public, making them sing, dance, laugh, or cry.'”

The genesis of Normandy Remembered began during the 65th Commemoration of D-Day, which Kirsten watched on CNN. She describes the moment:

"As I watched the 65th Commemoration of D-Day on CNN, the melody and lyrics to the song 'Normandy' started to form. Seeing the rows and rows of white crosses and listening to the powerful speech by President Obama, I felt truly inspired. I started studying the history of Normandy and the Liberation of France, reading books and articles, and watching movies and documentaries to gain more insight. Slowly, the musical developed."

In 2018, Kirsten had the opportunity to visit Paris and travel to the coast of Normandy. Reflecting on this visit, she said:

"Standing on those beaches, where bullet holes are still visible on the beach walls, felt like I was standing on holy ground. Normandy Remembered is my tribute to those who gave their lives for the freedom of others. I hope that this will instill those same values in future generations."

Annelien Kirsten's dedication to her work and her profound respect for history and sacrifice are evident in her compositions. Normandy Remembered stands as a testament to her belief in the transformative power of music and dance, and her hope to preserve and convey important historical messages through her art.

Her song “Normandy” was performed by The Chivenor Military Ladies Choir in Bayeaux, Normandy at the 80th Commemorations of the landings in June 2024. Annelien was invited to join in the performance and is the only performer not wearing the striped uniforms below:

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