As You Are: A Soundwalk For Leeds

A new interactive soundwalk is being composed by South African cellist Abel Selaocoe which will invite people to experience Opera North’s home city of Leeds in a very different way to usual. It will take in many of the city centre’s most recognisable landmarks, as well as its arcades and side streets and the waterfront of the River Aire. Small groups will be given a set of headphones connected to a wireless receiver, triggering new musical chapters at different points on the walk.

At times uplifting with full orchestra and chorus, at others reflective with just a single voice, As You Are embraces the healing power of walking and expresses acceptance that there will sometimes be difficult times, but that we will come through to the other side. For the recording, Abel Selaocoe will be joined by guest African musicians including Sidiki Dembele, as well as the full Orchestra and Chorus of Opera North.