The vocalist who boasts a five-octave range will celebrate her 75th birthday on the upcoming dates.
Renaissance, who were vital in pioneering a unique blend of progressive rock and traditional European music in the 1970s, are set to hit the road for a select number of dates this fall. Led by vocalist Annie Haslam, the group will perform a mix of Renaissance classics and Haslam solo material. The upcoming dates mark Renaissance’s return to the U.S. after the live entertainment industry was halted by the COVID-19 pandemic.
“It came as a shock, really,” Haslam told The New School Free Press via Zoom in a September interview. “I wasn’t sure if I would ever sing again.”
Haslam, who boasts a five-octave vocal range, will be celebrating her 75th birthday on the trek. “We wanted to tour again, at least once more,” Haslam said. “We’re not sure how long it’s going to go on, we don’t last forever unfortunately, and I’ve been in the business a long time.”
Renaissance is best known for releasing a string of successful progressive rock albums in the 1970’s. The band will be accompanied by a full symphonic orchestra on the upcoming dates. “I’m very excited,” Halsam told The Free Press. “There’s like 16 of us onstage, it’s fantastic!”
Although the group had used orchestral arrangements in the studio, they did not utilize a live orchestra until 2017. Haslam feels positive about the collaboration.
“It’s very emotional, it gives so much more to the music,” Haslam stated. “This music was made for orchestras. It’s perfect.”
You can find tickets and more information at Renaissance’s homepage.
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I saw Annie and Renaissance 5 times. Three with Al Steward In Pennsylvania. Beautiful voice great band. Thanks for your music. Bucks county is beautiful.
I saw Annie and Renaissance at Southampton Gaumont Theatre and Poole Arts Centre UK. I shamefully have to admit I smuggled in a flash camera and blinded Annie taking a photo, a photo I cherished and now I have to apologise! The music is to die for, and timeless.
I saw you radio city late 70s. I knew you made all your own gowns but I never understood beauty until I say you on stage