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William K.Z.

 
 

'Percy's Picks Vol 1
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William K.Z. is a Manchester-based composer, producer, and musician recognized for his innovative integration of music, theater, and multimedia. A graduate of the Royal Northern College of Music, William has crafted a unique style, blending classical training with modern influences in both his solo works and collaborative projects. His standout project, Growth of the Silk, is a multimedia opera that tells a modern fairy tale through a fusion of music, dance, and film. This acclaimed piece, which has been featured at prestigious events like London’s Tete-a-Tete Opera Festival, exemplifies William’s commitment to immersive, multi-sensory storytelling​

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Bio

Biography

In 2018 William K.z. graduated from The Royal Northern College of Music with an honors degree in composition. Whilst studying at the conservatoria he became intensely interested in music theatre, leading to the creation of his first staged work A.O.L (2016) and then his graduation portfolio production Growth of the Silk (2019), which was programmed as part of London’s Tete-a-tete Opera Festival.

 

In addition this his theatrical work, William has been commission to compose work for The British Library, CoMA, VideoJam, Psappha Ensemble. As well as an upcoming commission for Tete-a-tete Opera Festival’s 2020 program. In 2020 Growth of the Silk was set to see performances at Brighton and Camden fringes.

 

William is also the driving force behind Bethlehem Casuals, a dynamic band known for its eclectic blend of afro-beat, ska, and jazz. Their vibrant performances have made waves across the UK festival circuit, including appearances at Glastonbury, BlueDot, and Manchester Jazz Festival. The band's albums, such as Feels on Wheels and The Tragedy of Street Dog, have been celebrated for their innovative sound and playful approach to genre fusion, establishing them as a staple of Manchester’s live music scene​

William KZ

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Beyond his band work, William K.Z. has an extensive solo discography available on platforms like Spotify and Apple Music, with works that explore folk-psychedelic and classical themes. His solo albums, After a Long Time and Percy's Picks Vol 1, showcase his intricate compositions and genre-blending approach, appealing to fans of indie and modern classical music​

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William’s talent has also led to commissioned pieces for prestigious institutions such as the British Library and Psappha Ensemble. His work frequently crosses into multimedia projects, underscoring his versatility and appeal within the broader arts community. William K.Z.'s growing influence reflects his dedication to pushing the boundaries of contemporary music, positioning him as a significant figure in the UK’s vibrant music and arts scene.

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GOTS
Work with film

Growth of the Silk is an original fairytale about a girl’s misguided wish for long lustrous hair which leaves her ultimately crushed under the weight of the unstoppable growth. The work is a multi-media opera. It combines music, dance, and film on stage. Drawing on Latin elements of music and movement, the surreal story sets out to create a fabled fairy tale for the modern-day. The piece features just two performers of Soprano and Dancer and an intimate ensemble of guitar, bass, and percussion.

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Link to Tete-a-tete 2020 program

WORK WITH FILM

DISCOGRAPHY

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Percy's Picks Vol 1
William K.z.

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The Tragedy of Street Dog
Bethlehem Casuals

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Post Coital Jazz
William K.z.

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Feels On Wheels
Bethlehem Casuals

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After a Long Time
William K.z.

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