Rising stars of the RNCM’s Popular Music programme head to legendary arts festival in Spain
The RNCM is proud to be part of the prestigious delegation of world-class artists and musicians heading to Barcelona’s legendary La Mercè festival in September in an historic collaboration between the two cities.
Seven current students from the RNCM’s Popular Music department plus RNCM alum and Associate Artists Porij (pictured) will perform at the six day celebration of Catalan arts and culture, topping and tailing the festival which runs from 23-28 September.
Students Sam Reynolds (drums), Isaac Dobson (bass), Ryan Bee (guitar), George Fisher-Edwards (keyboard), and vocalists Mateo Rodriguez, Lottie Gray, and Róise McHugh will perform a three-part concert with the Escola Superior de Música de Catalunya that connects the two cities through music (Sun 28 Sep, 12-2pm, Jardins del Doctor Pla i Armengol). The first two parts will be performed by each ensemble individually, followed by a final joint piece developed together in the lead up to the concert.
Porij take a headline spot on the opening night, with Egg, Jacob Maguire, James Middleton, and Nathan Carroll set to bring their electronic dance rock sound and acclaimed new single I’m Your Lover (Only) to a late night party at the Jardins del Doctor Pla i Armengol (Tue 23 Sep, 11.15pm-12.45am).
La Mercè is Barcelona’s largest annual street party held in honour of the city’s patron saint, Mare de Déu de la Mercè (Our Lady of Mercy). The 2025 event – which includes parades, live music, dance, theatre, a ‘fire run’, and more – will be the first time another city has been invited to collaborate on the programme. The decision reflects the shared industrial pasts of Manchester and Barcelona, with histories linked to workers’ movements and a modern economy driven by the creative industries.
The Escola Superior de Música de Catalunya is part of the RNCM-led International Benchmarking Group, a network of 11 of the world’s leading conservatoires who come together to enhance the professional and personal development of young musicians through the sharing of best practice, ensuring that member institutions remain at the forefront of music education and training globally.
6 August 2025
