Rakhi Singh performs an Improvisation into Nicola Matteis’ Alia Fantasia

Formed in 2016, Manchester Collective are known for their experimental and daring programming which sees them perform cutting-edge contemporary music in spaces as diverse as warehouses and factories.

But, like most classical musicians, Singh’s natural home is the concert hall. And it was in our own Queen Elizabeth Hall that she made her national debut as a teenage violinist; performing in a competition with the London Philharmonic Orchestra – which she won.

Such are the perks of being one of our Resident Artists, that we were able to take Singh back into the Hall on a recent visit to the Southbank Centre. ‘I do find it amazing coming back here,’ Singh told us, stepping out onto the empty stage, ‘because I’m transported back to when I was fourteen, and being very scared in the green room, about to go out and play with the LPO live on radio’.

‘It’s always a kind of an honour and a gift to be able to be in these spaces when they’re empty. One thing I find so special about being a performer is that moment before the show starts when the space is empty and it just has this sense of anticipation about it.’

And our concert halls are right to feel anticipatory, given all it takes to create musical magic is one performer and their instrument. So whatever you’re doing, wherever you are, close down all the other browser windows you have open, and take three minutes and 41 seconds to yourself, to enjoy this enchanting intimate performance. Here is Rakhi Singh, alone in our Queen Elizabeth Hall, performing an improvisation into Nicola Matteis’ Alia Fantasia.