RTÉ Concert Orchestra Explores the History of Soul

Enjoy soul classics made famous by Aretha Franklin, James Brown, Ray Charles, Al Green, Jackie Wilson, Curtis Mayfield, Bessie Smith and more.

Join RTÉ Concert Orchestra Associate Artist and jazz supremo Guy Barker as he takes you on a unique exploration of the history of soul in the National Concert Hall (NCH) on May 18th, with the RTÉ Concert Orchestra and acclaimed vocalist Vanessa Haynes, Strictly Come Dancing singing star Tommy Blaize (pictured) and renowned conductor David Brophy.
 
Guy’s sonically stunning arrangements will include music from the greatest soul legends such as Aretha Franklin, James Brown, Ray Charles and Bessie Smith, with hits like Respect, Chain of Fools, Reet Petite, Take me to the River and lots, lots, more.  

Guy Barker, trumpet player, bandleader and composer is one of the most sought-after arrangers of today: “We’ll be investigating the history of soul all the way back from its gospel and blues roots. Starting with the work of Bessie Smith in the 1920s, taking in along the way the music of Jackie Wilson and Curtis Mayfield in the 1950s, all the way through to the 1970s where we’ll encounter the work of Al Green, the Godfather of Soul James Brown, and many more. All orchestrated and arranged to encompass the full forces of the RTÉ Concert Orchestra and Big Band and featuring two of our great soul voices Vanessa Haynes and Tommy Blaize.”
 
The RTÉ Concert Orchestra is also joining forces with Ireland’s world-renowned concert orchestra conductor and choirmaster David Brophy.

‘History of Soul’ is on Thursday May 18th at the National Concert Hall. Tickets are available at RTÉ Orchestra | Home (rte.ie).