7 May 2021

LIVE CLASSICAL MUSIC TURNS TO CROWDFUNDING 

through the noise has developed the first crowdfunding platform specifically for live music. The platform will be trialled with a new grass-roots classical performance series: noisenights. The first noisenights this summer feature members of Chineke! orchestra, BBC Young Musician winner Laura van der Heijden, and violinist Max Baillie. 

The through the noise platform presents a new method for funding classical concerts after the pandemic. Members of the public are invited to become ‘backers’ in return for tickets to their chosen event, and priority booking for future events. Each event is confirmed when it achieves sufficient backing, ensuring that only concerts that are popular with audiences go ahead.

Inspired by London’s great jazz venues, noisenights are a new format for classical concerts. They feature two identical 45-60 minute classical sets: an early evening rush-hour performance; and a late show which is followed by live jazz, funk and afrobeat acts, accompanied by a late-licensed bar. Tickets to the late set include access for the rest of the night.

The first two noisenights are planned after the end of restrictions, one on the 9th of July and another on the 28th of August, both at Underbelly Hoxton. noisenight one features cellist Laura van der Heijden and violinist Max Baillie performing Kodaly’s duo alongside Bach, Bartok and their own arrangements of folk music. noisenight two features the Chineke! Duo (Sarah Daramy-Williams and Natalia Senior-Brown) performing pieces by Errollyn Wallen and Joseph Bologne, as well as Schubert, Mozart and Martinů.

through the noise Co-founder and Artistic Director Jack Bazalgette said:

“We believe this new model for live classical music offers a positive and viable view into the future of our industry. By putting our audiences at the heart of what we do, with power over which concerts they want to see, we hope to be part of building back live music to be more resilient and relevant than ever. We’re thrilled to begin this venture in partnership with such extraordinary musicians, including members of the Chineke! Orchestra, who present parts of their acclaimed African Concert Series programme; and Laura van der Heijden and Max Baillie, who perform together as a duo for the first time this summer.”

Chineke! Foundation Founder and Artistic & Executive Director Chi-chi Nwanoku OBE said: "We're delighted that Sarah and Natalia will be performing as the Chineke! Duo at noisenights. The pieces by Black and ethnically diverse composers in the programme are real gems that deserve greater attention and appreciation by a wider audience. It promises to be a wonderful musical moment at the height of the summer season!"

Cellist Laura van der Heijden, who opens noisenights on 9 July 2021 with violinist Max Baillie, said:

“I can’t really put into words how exciting it is to be getting back to live music. It is an extra delight to be doing so in such a special, intimate venue and with a programme that I just can’t wait to play.”

noisenight one takes place on 9 July 2021 with Laura van der Heijden and Max Baillie at Hoxton Underbelly (6.30pm + 8.30pm). noisenight two features Sarah Daramy-Williams and Natalia Senior-Brown of Chineke! on 28 August 2021 at Hoxton Underbelly (6pm + 8pm). Backing options for both events range from £8-£25.

through the noise began in lockdown last year as a positive force for live classical music. It runs an independent guide to the best and most affordable classical events in London, including exclusive ticket deals, and is the home of noisenights. through the noise is also a community interest company which runs live music-based mental health projects in collaboration with various London charities.

Download full press release and images here.

Contact our PR team here.