CHASING SAKURA

In Japan, the cherry blossom (sakura) is widely celebrated. It is symbolic of rebirth - springtime, hope, optimism - but is also a reminder of the impermanence of life. Having lived in Tokyo,
Seonaid has drawn a parallel with this season to her life now in Scotland. After a serious accident, Seonaid found herself unable to walk and was forced to slow down and focus on her well-being.

During a lengthy and isolated recovery due to lockdown she was able to explore her local surroundings and discover the transformative and healing powers of nature. As both mind and body gradually healed, she found a new perspective. Through jazz, classical and folk idioms, Seonaid's musical suite Chasing Sakura -originally commissioned by Edinburgh Jazz & Blues Festival in 2021 - was written for a hand-picked ensemble of string quintet and saxophone/flute.

WHAT IS THIS THING CALLED LOVE?
Seonaid pays homage to her favourite jazz vocalist - the iconic Ella Fitzgerald - by exploring the Great American Songbook with selections from her 2019 album 'What Is This Thing Called Love?'
Programme: -
Chasing Sakura
Interval
What Is This Thing Called Love?