Mark Nightingale (right) playing as part of the Æsop Mīzen Band with his Father, Pete Nightingale
As many Ruddington residents already know, the former Methodist Chapel at the Framework Knitters Museum is home to the Chapel Art Gallery, which displays works by the Nottingham Society of Artists. In keeping with this artistic theme, the museum is now experimenting with a new initiative called Behind the Music, which will launch on the evening of Friday 11 November.
Behind the Music is the brainchild of Mark Nightingale, who performed at the launch of the Chapel Art Gallery in April. Says Mark: ‘After the launch, Paul, the museum’s manager, and I discussed different ways of using the Chapel that tie in with its new artistic environment. One of these was creating a programme of musical acts who would give a short talk before each performance, either explaining the inspiration behind their music or talking about the instruments they use. This idea has taken shape and evolved into Behind the Music.’
Together with his dad, Pete, Mark will be topping the bill on 11 November as the Æsop Mīzen Band (purveyors of fable jazz), and will also be compering the event. Mark and Pete will be joined by the jazz band Steam Funk, comprising Chris (guitarist), Pat (saxophonist), Pete (drummer) and Mark (Chapman Stick, a touch-style guitar). Also on the bill will be a singing group called Acapella, who’ll be singing songs from the island of Iona, and Gillian, a classical pianist. Completing the eclectic line-up will be Jude Winwood playing her Kora, a 21-string lute-bridge harp usually found in West Africa.
Adds Mark: ‘Each of the five acts has a very different musical style, and the audience will be treated to an insight into their approach as well as a diverse programme of quality live performances. There’ll be some unusual instruments to see and hear, promising a very enjoyable evening in the unique surroundings of the Chapel Art Gallery.’
To enhance the intimate atmosphere of the event, the Chapel will be set up cabaret-style with small tables and additional seating around the walls. Refreshments will be provided by museum partners, The Frame Breakers pub, who’ll be running a bar from the serving hatch in the Chapel. Light nibbles will also be available.
Behind the Music will start at 7:30pm and the programme will run until around 10pm, including an interval. Tickets cost £3 and are available on the door only. Please arrive early as space is limited in the Chapel and audience numbers will be capped. For more information, please contact the museum in office hours on 0115 984 6914.