The Untold Orchestra and their acclaimed “Icons” concert series visited the sunny Isle of Man this May as part of the Isle of Man Arts Council’s 60th anniversary celebrations. The 20-piece Manchester-based ensemble, known for their genre-defying performances and innovative orchestral arrangements, played three unforgettable concerts across the Island, each dedicated to a different musical icon. From soulful tributes to pop legends to family-friendly favourites, the Orchestra captivated audiences at every stop of their island tour.
Sam Davies, founder of the Untold Orchestra and pianist, said: “This week has been an absolute treat spending time here in the Isle of Man! Everybody has been so welcoming and it’s been really great performing the music of such iconic artists to such warm crowds. And to top it all off—the sun has been out all week! A massive thank you to the Isle of Man Arts Council for bringing us over, we hope to be back very soon!”
The tour began with a heartfelt tribute to the late, great Amy Winehouse at the Erin Arts Centre in Port Erin, with soulful renditions of Back to Black, Valerie, and Rehab, performed with the Orchestra’s signature energy and emotion.
Next, Peel Centenary Centre came alive with the sounds of Disney, enchanting children and adults alike with beloved songs from The Lion King, Encanto, Moana, Hercules, and even High School Musical.
The grand finale was held in the stunning setting of Cathedral Isle of Man in Peel, where a specially commissioned orchestral celebration of the Bee Gees brought the house down. The concert drew a crowd of nearly 350 fans, including His Excellency Lieutenant Governor Sir John Lorimer and Lady Lorimer, who joined the audience in celebrating one of the Island’s most iconic musical exports.
Member of the Isle of Man Arts Council, Peter Shimmin, said: “The Untold Orchestra brought us together with a beautiful mix of heartfelt tributes and joyful moments. Their visit reflected everything we strive for at the Isle of Man Arts Council - making incredible performances accessible, meaningful, and connected to our community.”
The Isle of Man Arts Council would like to express heartfelt thanks to the local venues, businesses, and individuals who helped welcome and host the Orchestra over their five-day visit. In between rehearsals and performances, the musicians were able to explore the Island’s beauty, with some members making it to the Calf of Man and even a trip up to the summit of Snaefell.
For five sunlit days, the Isle of Man echoed with music, laughter, and the shared joy of live performance. But it wasn’t just the music that made the week so special, it was the people. From the performers to the public, from young fans singing Disney songs to lifelong Bee Gees devotees dancing down the aisles, the Island came alive with shared stories and song. The Arts Council is proud to have played a part in bringing these moments to life, and we hope this will be the first of many visits to come for The Untold Orchestra.
