Nneka Cummins is a composer from Liverpool, who creates classical music that takes inspiration from sources far beyond the traditional classical canon. They draw on the Afrofuturist aesthetic and West African-rooted art as influences and seek to write work that is innovative, accessible and relevant to modern audiences. Groove-driven rhythms and vibrant melodies are central to their compositions, which also use extended techniques to add colour and percussiveness. Nneka’s music often includes sampled electronics developed from orchestral source material, to explore the idea of deconstruction and re-building. You can read more about Nneka and and their music on our website here.

Nneka's new work the return for wind quintet – commissioned by the Royal Philharmonic Society as part of the RPS Composers programme – will be performed for the first time at Manchester Camerata's home, The Monastery in Gorton, as part of a lunchtime concert.

Nneka says about the quintet: 'On each repeat, there is a chance to try again. A chance to repair. A humbling. Each loop provides the opportunity to say something new. To explore more deeply and with more understanding. Each iteration has sameness and uniqueness. There is an unfolding. Start over as many times as you need and as many times as it takes.'

Tickets are £10, and concessions are £3 (Under 30s, Students, and Gorton Residents)

Nneka is one of eight individuals supported by the 2026 RPS Composers programme, giving each a commission and premiere with a noted ensemble, festival or venue, as well as a year of professional development which gives them the chance to meet industry experts and professional composers, furthering their confidence and skills to seek further commissions and premieres of their own. We're grateful to RPS Members and a range of trusts and foundations whose generous support makes the RPS Composers programme possible.

You can find out more about RPS Membership and how you can help us support talented musicians like Nneka here.

Nneka is writing for the Manchester Camerata. Click the button below to discover more on their website and book your tickets for the performance.