The organisers of Local & Live are excited to announce that successful local performer, Anna Howie, has agreed to become a trustee of the popular annual music festival. Anna has long been a supporter of the local music scene and a promoter of original talent across the region. As an artist she knows just what it takes to build a successful career and so is perfectly placed to recognise that drive and talent in others.
‘I am very excited to be involved in Local & Live,’ says Anna. ‘Having performed at the festival in the past, I have seen it grow into the success it has become. I’m really looking forward to taking on a more active role to help nurture new talent for the festival and so ensure its long-term future. I know that this festival can be an influential part of the early careers of emerging artists from the area and so I want to help and encourage them to be the best performers they can be.’
Anna has worked as a singer and songwriter for the past 15 years, performing both independently and as part of popular outfit The Sirens Band. This has seen her play at events across Europe and has performed live on Radio 2 sessions with Queen guitarist Brian May. Anna was recently voted the Black Deer Festival Emerging Artist and her fans will be able to see her perform on the main stage at the Eridge-based festival next month.
Her first EP was recorded in Nashville and went to number 5 in the UK Country charts. Last year Anna released her latest album, The Friday Night Club, to enthusiastic reviews. She was described by Maverick magazine as one of, ‘the fastest rising stars on the scene’. She is just coming to the end of a UK tour but still finds time to play frequently in Tunbridge Wells.
On announcing Anna’s appointment as a Local & Live Trustee, the festival’s founder, Paul Dunton added: “Anna Howie’s involvement in music and her support for the local scene gives her precisely the experience and insight that we need as Local & Live grows and thrives. It is vital that we have a breadth of perspectives among the Trustees to ensure the continued success of Local & Live. Anna may not be the only Trustee who is a musician, but she will bring her own unique insight to the organising team which will be hugely helpful.” Local & Live, sponsored by Maxipay Accounting Services, is a free music festival that takes place in Calverley Grounds in Tunbridge Wells every August Bank Holiday weekend – Friday 25th, Saturday 26th and Sunday 27th August. On the Bank Holiday Monday, 28th August, the music will move to a fringe festival format at the Forum and the Sussex Arms.
For more information about Anna Howie visit annahowiemusic.co.uk
Listen to Anna Howie on Spotify at: https://open.spotify.com/artist/5WtC4DHUD2iXg384f9d98A?si=pubhDHozQTSlvxVY4x6eUg
