UNQUIET is a series of Manchester Firsts devised by Manchester Camerata and Robert Ames, collaborating with electronic artists which exists for the brave and the curious. Working with a rotating cast of contemporary artists, UNQUIET is bringing fresh new collaborations and world premieres to Manchester and beyond.
The next edition of UNQUIET features Speakers Corner Quartet for their first orchestral show with several guest performances from contributors on their most recent album, ‘Further Out Than The Edge,’ which was described by The Guardian as “a flawless and packed debut” upon its release earlier this year. Joining the band and orchestra on-stage for this very special event are Coby Sey, Confucius MC, James Massiah, Lea Sen, Leilah, Eska and Tawiah.
Speakers Corner Quartet is a testament to the power of collaboration and community. Fifteen years in the making, they now find themselves at the epicentre of the South London music scene and as one of the most influential groups to come out of the city.
Comprised of four multi-instrumentalists, bassist Peter Bennie, drummer Kwake Bass, flautist Biscuit, and violinist Raven Bush, Speakers Corner Quartet have worked with everyone from Joey Bada$$, Sampha, Lil Silva, Mica Levi, Novelist, Herbie Hancock, Darkstar, Laraaji, Lafawndah and many more. This expansive line-up is a testament to the bonds created by the quartet and their close-knit ties with the brightest contemporary artists.
When playing together, they see themselves as a singular entity with a hive-mind mentality, working together to create a unique experience for their audience. For this world premiere orchestral show, Speakers Corner Quartet will be joined by Manchester Camerata conducted by Robert Ames, performing pieces from their critically acclaimed album ‘Further Out Than The Edge’ and more.
This show will also include the world premiere of new work by Royal Philharmonic Society composer Blasio Kavuma - written especially for Manchester Camerata and AMC Gospel Choir.

About UNQUIET:
UNQUIET is the progressive new live experience devised by acclaimed conductor and composer Robert Ames and brought to life by the world renowned Manchester Camerata alongside a rotating cast of artists. Recent performances have come from composer, producer and DJ Afrodeutsche and rising electronic artist Carmen Villain, with Speakers Corner Quartet the next boundary pushing artist to partner with UNQUIET to present their music in an exciting, unexpected way.
UNQUIET exists to bring people together to escape the algorithm. It is a new live music series for the brave and curious, for those seeking a deeper adventure. UNQUIET will meet music fans where they already are, creating a new way to experience the orchestra.
“After the success of our collaboration with AFRODEUTSCHE for Manchester International Festival, we can't wait to get started on this edition of UNQUET with Speakers Corner Quartet. Working with such a fantastic act to give the world premiere of an orchestral show feels exactly like the collaboration between artists and modern orchestras that should be happening today.” - Robert Ames
About Manchester Camerata:
Manchester Camerata prides itself on an original combination of craft and courage. With five star reviews from The Independent, as well as the accolade of being hailed ‘Britain’s most adventurous orchestra’ (The Times), the orchestra is as comfortable opening Glastonbury Festival as it is recording Mozart at the highest level. They are passionate about the traditional craft of an orchestra and how it is evolving. By excelling artistically and having the courage to prioritise bold, compelling and diverse projects, Camerata make a positive difference not only to their audiences but to the health and wellbeing of their communities as well.
UNQUIET is commissioned by Manchester Camerata and NEWFORM and curated by Robert Ames.
Header Image: Speakers Corner Quartet (Image Marc Sethi)