Relaxed Saturday Live: Nafis Umerkulova – piano

St James’s is expanding its Saturday Live programme to offer a new Relaxed Saturday Live series of free live concerts. The programme will showcase music genres such as jazz and world music, among others. These concerts are designed to be even more accessible to all. Don’t worry if your kids are prone to sing along and no need to think you need to sit bolt upright throughout when trying out this new live music experience — you’re free to wander in and out as the mood takes you.

Free admission | Donations welcome

Whether £5 or any amount you’re able to give. Donations can be made in cash in the basket on your way out, or by tap donation at the machines at our exits. Your generosity helps support our cultural events and charitable services. Thank you.

Programme

Pianist Nafis Umerkulova will introduce the programme throughout; expect an informal atmosphere where everyone is welcome to move around, dance, or just listen.

Presented in association with the Philomel Creative Circle.

Artist Bio

Born in Tashkent, Nafis Umerkulova started piano at the age of 5 inspired by her mother who was also a pianist.

In 2004 Nafis was awarded a full scholarship to continue her musical education in the UK at the Purcell School and later at the Royal Academy of Music and Royal Conservatoire of Scotland.

Her numerous performances in the UK feature solo, concerto and chamber music recitals in Wigmore Hall, Purcell Room, St Martin-in-the-Fields, St John’s Smith Square, Glasgow City Halls, Manchester Bridgewater Hall, Birmingham Symphony and Town Halls.

Among various competition prizes and awards, Nafis is a prize winner of the International BRANT Piano Competition and a recipient of the Myre Hess award by Help Musicians UK.

In 2019 Nafis released her debut album “Darkness illuminated” featuring the music of Alexander Scriabin and Alexei Stanchinsky. In addition to her performance career Nafis regularly dedicates time to sharing her experience with the young generation. She is currently a member of the piano department at the Purcell School for Young Musicians.