ORGANISERS of the annual celebration of the life and music of Worcestershire’s most famous composer have announced an exciting new collaboration for 2026 led by Malvern-based multi-disciplinary artist Nakisha Swatton.
Nakisha – an artist, creative producer and mentor working across music, visual arts, and community-based cultural development – will perform a contemporary multi instrumental event, inspired by Elgar’s Enigma Variations, alongside a range of other performers at Malvern Cube.
The other performers are Malvern Taiko drummers, Daniel Neville string ensemble, Black Voices Choir, Academy Of Contemporary Music Birmingham, Grosvenor Road Studios and String Box duo, Jill and Martin.
Kenneth Woods, artistic director of The Elgar Festival said: “This is set to be a truly exciting and innovative performance of Elgar’s landmark orchestral work, welcoming both amateur and professional musicians to explore and create new musical portraits.”
Nakisha’s career began in the independent music scene, where she organised and toured with multiple artists and bands in 2013 that helped launch careers that are still going strong today.
This led to extensive touring both in the UK and internationally, collaborations with Grammy-nominated and award-winning artists, producers, and songwriters, and recognition in sport and performance culture including a silver medal at the 2018 X Games USA.
Nakisha is also the Founder and Creative Director of Grounded: Growing Creative Pathways, Malvern, a creative development platform supporting emerging artists through mentorship, fellowships, studio partnerships, and public showcases.
Composed in 1899 Elgar’s Enigma Variations is one of the greatest pieces of the 19th century and secured Elgar’s reputation as a composer of national standing. It remains one of the most popular works in the classical repertoire.
Set in the composer’s hometown and surrounding areas over the week closest to Elgar’s birthday on June 2 – this year’s festival will take place from Saturday May 23 until Sunday 31.
The festival is an annual celebration of Elgar’s music spanning symphonic and string orchestra concerts by the resident English Symphony Orchestra, along with chamber concerts, choral concerts, recitals, workshops, masterclasses, street performances, a young composers competition, exhibits, tours and talks.
Visit www.elgarfestival.org for more information.
