ICMP's Catherine Anne Davies, aka artist The Anchoress, was invited to perform at the launch of the Music Venues Trust (MVT) Annual Report in Wales.
The event took place at the Senedd, the Welsh Parliament in Cardiff, with Catherine joined by James Dean Bradfield from the Manic Street Preachers.
Alongside her live performance, Jack Sargeant, Minister for Culture, Skills and Social Partnership, gave a keynote address to the various politicians, policy makers, venues and key stakeholders in attendance.
Commenting on Instagram, Catherine said: "It was a huge honour to be asked to play last night at the Senedd to launch the MVT Annual Report in Wales."
"Thanks to James Dean Bradfield for coming to sing 'Dylan & Caitlin' with me, and to the MVT for inviting me to be a part of this very special event."
Last year in the UK we lost one grassroots music venue every two weeks - with nearly half making a loss and 200 remaining in a state of emergency as the country faces a collapse in touring. It's crucial that we all work together to reach a consensus on how we can solve the current crisis in live music."
The MVT report highlights many of the challenges faced by the UK's network of small music venues.
Despite contributing over £500 million to the UK economy, these venues are grappling with a decline in live performances, narrowing touring options for artists, and a drop in audience numbers.
The report urgently calls for government intervention, including a reduction in VAT on ticket sales and a review of business rates, to ensure the survival of these vital cultural hubs.
Visit musicvenuetrust.com to find out more.
Catherine will be heading out on tour in April and June 2025 to showcase new song from her forthcoming third album.
Take the first steps in your music career with ICMP
We've been developing and delivering contemporary music education for over 30 years – longer than any other music school in the UK. With a proven track-record, countless music industry connections and unrivalled access to facilities, it's easy to see why hundreds of students choose ICMP each year.
To completely immerse yourself in your music career, chat with our friendly Admissions Team via email enquiries@icmp.ac.uk or give them a call on 020 7328 0222.
Find your course
We've been developing and delivering contemporary music education for over 30 years – longer than any other music school in the UK. With a proven track-record, countless music industry connections and unrivalled access to facilities, it's easy to see why hundreds of students choose ICMP each year.
To completely immerse yourself in your music career, chat with our friendly Admissions Team via email enquiries@icmp.ac.uk or give them a call on 020 7328 0222.