Jacques Allen reflects on aspects of sexuality and gender in Elegy for the Feminine Man

The Royal College of Music’s new music ensemble brings together a range of defining events, personal reflections and portrayals, beginning with the launch of the satellite Boreas as told by Maderna in his improvisatory work.

Also featured are RCM composers past and present. Hannah Kendall’s Verdala is inspired by the SS Verdala, a ship that brought West Indian soldiers to the trenches during the First World War, whilst RCM competition winner Jacques Allen reflects on aspects of sexuality and gender in Elegy for the Feminine Man.

The ensemble concludes with Thomas Adès’ virtuosic early work and RCM composition professor Simon Holt’s menacing depiction of the serpent Lilith.