The Celia Collection

Clara Strauch's artistic journey began as uniformly as any other young folk's set on a dream might couch-surfing. That time spent honing in on her craft between homes has done her well, though, and we are just now being able to see it all come full circle with the 25 May release of her debut LP, Persephone. Written and developed over the course of three years, Strauch's first collection of studio-recorded songs pursue soulful, wintry music reminiscent of the work of such powerful songwriters as Regina Spektor and Lucy Rose.

Bass Richard Wistreich and lutenist Robin Jeffrey present Vittoria, Vittoria, a collection which brings together songs from 17th-century Italy and England. Presenting works by Purcell, Dowland, Frescobaldi, Marini and more, Wistreich and Jeffrey sensitively bring these songs to life, with their lively sound augmented in several of the performances by the contributions of organist Celia Harper and lirone player Erin Headley.

British singer-songwriter Julia Fordham continues to enchant audiences around the world with her extraordinary vocal range and heartfelt songs. From 1988’s Happy Ever After — her first release and an international hit — and throughout all 15 albums, her unique voice and exquisitely crafted compositions strike an everlasting chord.

by Anna Jackson (Editor)