2023 has been a spectacular success for Nottingham musician Chris Miggells and 2024 promises to be even better...
In early August I had the privilege of watching Chris Miggells perform at the unique Clipstones Headstock venue in Mansfield. This innovative launch of his debut album Synesthese and consisting of original compositions on the piano, mushroomed into a three-day sellout at the former colliery site and folks from all over the world attended the shows.
A Steinway & Sons grand piano worth £100,000, was installed into the vast industrial space that has since been nicknamed 'The Iron Cathedral', because of the outstanding acoustic sounds that are only possible in this towering space, with high ceilings and green-tiled walls. I managed to catch up with Chris and talk about that event and the year ahead.
That was a very special three-day show in August Chris, did you initially think it would be that successful?
No, I thought if I could get at least fifteen folks to attend then that would be an achievement, but the venue and event just took off. Eventually I had to extend it from one to three days and every night sold out, I had people fly over from USA, mainland Europe, all over the UK, it was absolutely unbelievable.
I recall the last piece you played during the first evening's performance; you said it was going to be an improvised piece. Was any of it planned or rehearsed before, because it sounded faultless?
It was not rehearsed at all and totally improvised, I just felt so much positive energy and elation from the night's performance and that it was almost impossible to hit a wrong note. Luckily, I didn't.
I also read somewhere that Mansfield held a Film Festival and that you picked up an award, what's the story behind that?
Well, I decided I wanted to record the show at The Headstocks but with no budget, I ended up filming and editing it myself. I did everything, lots of hard work and sleepless nights but I was really pleased with the result. The next thing I hear is that it was nominated and then won the Best Music Video by the Mansfield Film Festival. It's incredible to think that after fifteen years of struggling and knocking on doors as a musician, I have been really fortunate this year and I've made the most of every opportunity. The feature film of the Headstocks shows can be found on YouTube and I'd love for folks to give it a watch. I've also released a live album from the shows called Live at The Iron Cathedral. This year has been so special for me, I love that so many people with different tastes in music came to see me live. I noticed the room had some people dressed in their best suits and others in Led Zeppelin T-shirts, that was so special to me.
What does 2024 hold for you, Chris?
I'm not easing up and next year I've decided to really set a high goal. I've booked the Palace Theatre in Mansfield for a show in July. The venue holds 535 seats and it would be amazing to think of the atmosphere if I could fill the place, so much energy and positivity. I'm committed to do the show and I'm working hard to make sure it's the very best performance of my life.
Wow, I know the building and it is a spectacular setting for a show. You must be both excited and nervous about it?
Yes, I am, but I have to keep on setting higher goals and see what is possible. 2023 has taught me to be brave and bold, I have to keep pushing ahead if I want to get my music heard by more people.
Chris Miggells is a special talent and he achieved something exceptional in 2023. With 2024 fast approaching, please make sure your New Year's Resolutions include checking him out. Happy New Year!
Live at The Iron Cathedral is available to stream now on Spotify
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