With Kainos, our mission is to deliver innovative and striking performances that bring contemporary classical music to life. Our concerts will feature compositions by both renowned composers and emerging talents with a particular focus on the North East, ensuring a diverse repertoire that captivates all audiences. Each performance is designed not just as a concert but as an experience where the power of modern music can be appreciated in new and profound ways. Join us for an unforgettable evening filled with fresh sounds and interpretations.
About Kainos
The idea for Kainos came from a conversation between conductor Mark Edwards and composer Andrew Harvey who realised how few opportunities to hear contemporary classical music there are in the North East. With Mark's knowledge of local musicians and Andrew's experience in arts administration, the first steps were taken to form Kainos. Some years and many challenges later, we're delighted to announce that Kainos is about to give its first concert.
PLAYERS
Repertoire
Anna Appleby - Glitch: A burst of modern energy for solo clarinet, Glitch explores the beauty and chaos of digital noise in a concise, captivating miniature.Benjamin Graves - Rindik II: Evocative and intriguing, Rindik II for solo flute draws inspiration from Indonesian gamelan, transporting you to a world of shimmering sounds. Is Durham the inspiration?Graham Fitkin - Furniture: is is a peculiar piece for piano that manipulates triads and 7ths, blending tension and resolution. It often results in atonal clusters, creating a strange musical experience.Errollyn Wallen - Woogie Boogie: A vibrant fusion of classical and jazz! Wallen's piece for piano and violin is a high-octane celebration with roots in Belize and London.Ninfea Cruttwell-Reade - Three Études for Piano and Flower Pots: Prepare for the unexpected! Cruttwell-Reade combines piano with the delicate sounds of flowerpots in these playful and innovative études.Joan Tower - Petrouskates: Tower's energetic and virtuosic Petrouskates for ensemble is a thrilling ride, channeling the spirit of Stravinsky's Petrushka with a distinctly American voice.John Casken - Winter Reels: A major work at 20 minutes, Casken's Winter Reels for full ensemble evokes the stark beauty of the Northumberland landscape, blending folk-inspired melodies with contemporary textures.
Kainos' debut concert took place on May 8th 2025
in The Loftus Room at the Lit&Phil,
Newcastle upon Tyne
and was a great success!
Video from the concert will be posted very soon so you can see and hear the ensemble in action.
The concert was supported by
