A TEENAGE singer-songwriter from Wrexham is following in the footsteps of his musical heroes by taking centre-stage at the Royal Albert Hall.
Isaac Holmes, 18, is one of eight finalists at Future Makers, an annual, nationwide talent competition and development programme for young musicians who write their own material, run by the iconic London venue.
In performing at the Hall, he’ll be performing at a venue previously headlined by his guitar idols, Steven Wilson and John Mayer.
Isaac said: “Getting the chance to perform at the Royal Albert Hall is honestly just a dream come true. I can’t believe I get the chance to appear on the same stage where I’ve seen some of my biggest influences play, like Steven Wilson, John Mayer and Jacob Collier.”
Isaac has been playing music since he was six, and now performs a mixture of progressive and alternative rock. Currently studying at the Liverpool Institute for Performing Arts, he has appeared at the Grammy Museum in LA (opening for Eagles guitarist Don Felder), received plaudits from Toto guitarist Steve Lukather, and played or guested on more than 150 songs for artists and producers around the world.
At the event on Wednesday, November 6, he’ll perform ‘Lone Man’ – a song from his upcoming debut EP – backed by his live band.
Isaac said: “Me and the band were absolutely ecstatic when we found that we’d be going through to the final. Future Makers is exactly what the industry needs to be doing.
"I can’t think of a better way to show the appreciation of art made by young artists in the UK, and other organisations should be following the lead of the Royal Albert Hall. I’m so grateful to be part of such an incredible event.”
Also in the audience will be three professional judges: Matthew Todd, the Hall’s Director of Programming and Engagement; Toby L, founder of record label, Transgressive; and industry expert, Paulette Long OBE.
The winner will be crowned the ‘Royal Albert Hall Future Makers Artist, 2024’ and receive a year of support as they look to forge a career in the industry.
That includes a showcase concert in the Hall’s 300-capacity Elgar Room, a slot at an external festival, studio time with a top producer, and help with marketing and PR. Last year’s winner, Amity Miller, will perform as a special guest at the event.
The final is being hosted by two of the Royal Albert Hall’s associate artists; spoken word performer LionHeart, and chart-topping saxophonist, Jess Gillam.
Gillam said: “Future Makers is an incredible opportunity for young musicians who write their own material to get a foothold in the industry.
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"It combines practical support and a welcoming environment with a chance for the young musicians to follow in their own musical hero’s footsteps by performing on the legendary Royal Albert Hall stage.
"We need to hear new, exciting and diverse talent, and Future Makers is helping to develop the next generation of vital musical voices.”
Isaac added: "There’s undoubtedly a lot of pressure that the band and I have put upon ourselves to perform at such a legendary and prestigious venue, but we are so up for the challenge, and the Royal Albert Hall team have been so gracious and supportive towards us, so we really have them to thank.
"I think it’s going to be such a memorable and inspirational day, and I’m really excited to perform alongside the other incredible artists.”
Future Makers 2025 opens for submissions from Monday, March 31.
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