Southend-on-Sea City Council is thrilled to announce that the renowned pianist Nicholas McCarthy will be opening the Southend Council Concert Series.
Nicholas McCarthy, born in 1989 without his right hand, is celebrated as one of the world's most inspiring pianists. He holds the unique distinction of being the only one-handed pianist to graduate from the Royal College of Music (RCM) in its 130-year history. In recognition of his extraordinary achievements, he was awarded honorary membership to the RCM by its President, HRH King Charles, in March 2018.
One of Nicholas's most memorable performances was with the British Paraorchestra at the Closing Ceremony of the 2012 Paralympic Games, where he performed alongside Coldplay in front of an audience of 86,000 people and half a billion viewers worldwide.
Nicholas has performed extensively across the UK, including at prestigious venues such as The Royal Albert Hall. His international tours have taken him to South Africa, South Korea, Malta, Kazakhstan, and the U.S. He is also a familiar face on television and radio, having appeared on BBC Radio 3, BBC Radio 4, BBC television, Channel 4, and ITV.
The concert will take place on Friday 18 October at the Civic Centre, Victoria Avenue, Southend-on-Sea, starting at 8pm. The event will feature a programme of music performed entirely with one hand, including works by Wagner, Liszt, Schubert, Bach, Scriabin, and more.
Councillor Matt Dent, cabinet member for culture, tourism, and business, said: "We are delighted to welcome Nicholas McCarthy to Southend to open our much-loved council concert series with this exceptional programme of piano music.
"Our concerts provide both residents and visitors with the opportunity to experience world-renowned music without having to travel to the major concert halls of London and other cities. I encourage everyone to book early to witness the amazing talents of this highly regarded international performer."
Tickets are priced at £12 and can be purchased online or by phone on 01702 215011, Monday to Friday, during normal office hours. Any remaining tickets will be available for purchase at the concert.
The Civic Centre, located on Victoria Avenue, Southend-on-Sea, offers free parking after 6pm and is easily accessible via major bus routes and close to both Southend Victoria and Southend Central train stations.