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On The Table Read Magazine, “the best entertainment eBook magazine UK“, discover Brad Kella’s inspiring journey from foster care to sold-out stages with his debut album Phoebe’s Melody, a heartfelt neo-classical masterpiece celebrating home and resilience.
Liverpudlian pianist Brad Kella, the triumphant winner of Channel 4’s The Piano, has unveiled his debut album, Phoebe’s Melody, set for release on June 6 via Modern Sky UK. This milestone follows sold-out headline shows at Liverpool’s Philharmonic Hall and London’s Purcell Room, with Kella now preparing to join Gary Barlow as a special guest on a UK tour this summer. From homelessness to performing in the world’s finest concert halls, Kella’s story is one of resilience, creativity, and the transformative power of music.
A Self-Taught Virtuoso with an Unconventional Edge
A self-taught musician, Kella’s approach defies the classical world’s reliance on scores and tradition. Influenced by legendary film composers Danny Elfman and Hans Zimmer, as well as neo-classical star Ludovico Einaudi, he plays from heart and soul, absorbing wide-ranging influences into his broadly neo-classical style. This raw, emotive process sets him apart, creating compositions he hopes will resonate with audiences today and inspire future generations.
Kella’s musical journey began modestly, playing a keyboard before upgrading to an electric piano funded by a government scheme. Today, he performs on a Steinway upright, a gift from The Piano. His victory on the show, judged by pianists Lang Lang and Mika, marked a turning point, leading to a deal with Modern Sky and performances at prestigious venues like the Royal Albert Hall for Classic FM Live.
Phoebe’s Melody: A Tribute to Family and Home
Named after his two daughters, who fueled his determination to succeed, Phoebe’s Melody is a deeply personal project. Recorded over eight hours from memory at London’s RAK Studios, the album features Kella’s evocative piano pieces, enhanced by top string players and British orchestrator Rosie Danvers, known for her work with Coldplay, Jay-Z, and Adele. The opening track, “Home to Me,” captures the moment Kella found safety with his foster parents, Eve and Frank, a theme central to his life as a former foster child. Another track, dedicated to Eve and Frank, was performed on The Piano and released as a single last year.
The theme of home resonates throughout the album, reflecting Kella’s experiences growing up in foster care. His compositions weave together joy, struggle, and hope, offering listeners a window into his remarkable journey.
From Street Pianos to Sold-Out Stages
Kella’s rise is a testament to his tenacity. Once homeless and playing street pianos to survive, he now commands stages like Liverpool’s Philharmonic Hall, where he performed a sold-out show—a dream come true for the lifelong Liverpudlian. In London, he recently headlined two sold-out performances at the Purcell Room on the Southbank, marking his debut as a leading act in the capital. This summer, he’ll support Gary Barlow on tour, bringing his music to thousands across the UK.
On March 28, Kella announced Phoebe’s Melody at a special event at The Beatles Story in Liverpool, where he performed album pieces on the last piano owned by John Lennon. The one-off performance underscored his deep connection to his hometown and its musical legacy.
Big Dreams and a Heart for Giving Back
Kella’s ambitions extend beyond the stage. A passionate Liverpool Football Club supporter, he already works with the club and dreams of hosting a piano concert at Anfield. He also envisions establishing a foundation to support children in care, inspired by his own experiences.
Despite his success, Kella remains grounded, living in Liverpool with his partner and daughters. Not every moment has been easy, but his creativity and determination continue to drive him forward. With Phoebe’s Melody, Kella invites the world to hear his story—one of triumph, family, and the enduring magic of music.
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