The Glasshouse

Jayne Dent, who regularly performs under the name Me Lost Me, is no stranger to Sage Gateshead. She was one of our our Artist in Residence during 2020/2021

Continuing her relationship with us, Jayne is pleased to be involved with the BBC Proms at Sage Gateshead: Folk Connections. She’ll perform to a live audience on July 23, which will also be broadcast on BBC Radio 3.

“I was asked to do some solo parts for The Water of Tyne. It’s a traditional North-Eastern Folk song, with many versions created over the years,” says Jayne. “I was then asked if I’d also like to join the Voices of the River’s Edge Choir.”

Voices of the River’s Edge features 100 singers aged 16-35. The choir was formed with a vision of performing at the first BBC Proms concert held in Sage Gateshead. Choir members collaborate with folk musicians from Spell Songs and Royal Northern Sinfonia.

“We sing some songs by Spell Songs, and there is the premier of a Judith Weir piece, Indelible Miraculous [the title poem from Julia Darlings’ book],” Jayne says. “I sing some verses for The Water of the Tyne, and then the rest of the choir and Royal Northern Sinfonia join me.”

A love of singing was the most important quality for choir members taking part in this momentous event. It’s unlike anything Jayne has experienced before.

“I feel a bit terrified but good terrified. I’ve never sung with a full orchestra before,” Jayne says.

“I’ve enjoyed the choir rehearsals too; it’s really nice to sing in a big group again.”

Audiences may not know what to expect if they haven’t attended the Proms before, but Jayne believes anyone who’s curious and interested in music should come along and get behind our region.

“It’s not just a folk gig, and it’s not just a classical gig or a choir show. It’s a good first concert for anyone to try, especially if you haven’t heard this type of music live,” she says.

“The BBC Proms will be a lovely showcase for Sage Gateshead and it’s huge for the local area.”