Set for Performance at Royal Albert Hall

We are amazed at the talent in SERC – both students and staff - and always delighted to share news of our colleague’s offspring.

Lecturer and Skills Development Champion for Motor Vehicle (and published author), Terry Hickland’s son, talented pianist Frasier Hickland, is preparing to perform at the Royal Albert Hall later this month.  We were fortunate to get a quick interview with Frasier to hear about his career in music to date.  

Frasier (26) started playing the violin when he was in primary school and took up piano during his teen years. He also studied organ and harpsichord. The young man graduated from the Royal College of Music in London last year. Since then, he has been working as a freelance collaborative pianist, specialising mainly in vocal repertoire and chamber music.

When asked about his career highlights to date Frasier said,  “I’ve been grateful for so many wonderful opportunities, such as being a finalist in the prestigious Kathleen Ferrier Awards in Wigmore Hall, London, performing for HRH King Charles in Hillsborough Castle and for HSH Prince Albert II of Monaco in the Yacht Club de Monaco with flutist Amy Gillen who is from Donegal. On home ground, I was delighted to make my debut as music director this year for Northern Ireland Opera’s production of Philip Glass’ The Juniper Tree, in the Grand Opera House, Belfast.”

Speaking about the forthcoming performance in London, Frasier said, “My recital with Amy Gillen will take place on 26 January 2025 in the Royal Albert Hall and will be part of their Classical Coffee Morning Series. The programme has a Shakespearean influence, as well as taking inspiration from other folklore. Concert transcriptions for flute and piano of celebrated operas will be a feature of the recital, in addition to some shorter works from Mendelssohn’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream and Irish folk songs. This is perfect for someone who has never been to a classical music concert, as the music is very approachable and melodic, and would equally appeal to concert veterans.”

If you cannot make it to the Royal Albert Hall, if you are quick, you can catch Frasier and Amy perform the same recital in the intimate surroundings of the First Presbyterian Church, Belfast on 24 January 2025 at 7.30pm. Tickets are £15 or £10 (Concession/Under 30) and are available on Eventbrite.