A versatile, London based Mezzo Soprano, who has built up a diverse and extensive range of experience performing as a soloist and ensemble vocalist both nationally and internationally. One of only sixteen vocalists selected for the Pulse solo vocal ensemble led by Mary King at Southbank Centre in 2009, Clemmie went on to complete postgraduate studies at Trinity Laban with her vocal teacher Alison Wells and was a finalist in the 2011 Patricia Routledge National English Song Competition.
Recent solo highlights include: Vivaldi’s Gloria and Dixit Dominus with New College Choir, conducted by Edward Higginbottom in the Sheldonian Theatre, Oxford; Mozart’s Requiem and Rossini’s Petite Messe Solonnelle with All Saint Singers; Karl Jenkins’ Stabat Mater under Edward-Rhys Harry; and Handel’s Messiah with London Early Opera at Handel House. Ensemble engagements include Berlioz’s L’enfance du Christ conducted by Sir Mark Elder and Mendelssohn’s Elijah with Britten Sinfonia Voices; and Handel’s Messiah in Madrid with Jonathan Cohen. Future engagements include: European premiere of Stevie Wishart’s vocal work Out of This World with Sinfonye and BBC Singers; and the World Premiere of Stockhausen’s Mittwoch with London Voices and Birmingham Opera Company for the London 2012 Festival.
In addition to her Western Classical experience, Clemmie continues to be involved in an array of diverse projects, including providing backing vocals for a variety of internationally acclaimed artists: Bobby McFerrin, folk group Bellowhead, Turner prize winner Martin Creed, cult rock group Spiritualized, and Florence and the Machine.
Clemmie is also passionate about performing her own repertoire and commissioning new works as well as collaborating with artists from all cultural sectors with her vocal trio Voice, and enjoys performing song and opera repertoire with recital ensemble Trio Madame. www.myspace.com/triomadame
Recent review: The Oxford Times (10th April 2012) Rossini’s Petite Messe Solonnelle
“Clemmie Franks… her gloriously rich voice made the Agnus Dei a real tour de force… the sublime Qui Tollis; another highlight.”
