Two great classical voices for Dublin concert next year

 Aled Jones and Russell Watson, two of the world's greatest classical voices, next month come together to release their debut album 'In Harmony', out via BMG.  The pair will take to the stage together for their first joint UK and Ireland tour throughout September and October next year performing in the Bord Gais Energy Theatre on Friday 18th October 2019.

Having moved in the same circles for nearly 20 years and since becoming firm friends; Aled approached Russell to collaborate for his next big project. The album features a wealth of well-loved hymns, arias, and popular songs – ranging from stunning arrangements of 'Ave Maria' – to more modern classics such as 'You Raise Me Up'.

Ian Tilley, who has worked with some of the biggest names in classical-crossover including Hayley Westenra, who has sold millions worldwide, platinum selling All Angels, The Choirboys and Libera, produced the record. Internationally renowned composer Sir Karl Jenkins wrote one of the tracks 'Bright Horizons' especially for Aled and Russell.

The first single, 'Where Have All The Flowers Gone/Here’s To The Heroes', is a timely tribute celebrating the centenary of the end of the First World War and the 70th anniversary of the NHS – to the men and woman who inspired a generation.

Aled says: "We loved the idea of honouring service men and women through our music - as well as our everyday heroes such as doctors and nurses.”

In Harmony is the end product from two artists born with a predestined compatibility. Here, both Aled and Russell have embraced the spirit of collaboration and friendship, whilst each bringing their own sky-high level of talent to the table to create this beautiful record.

Of the album, Russell says, “What I particularly like is the way that it is not just a collaboration as such where I sing a verse, Aled sings a verse and everybody joins in on the chorus. It’s been really cleverly written and arranged so that our voices blend really well.”

Aled adds, “This album has created a real excitement for me - singing songs I don’t normally perform on my own. Recording 'Volare' with Russell was a hoot!"

Their instinctive understanding of one another is easy to hear. From the grandiose 'Volare' a creative rendition of Dean Martin’s jazzy number, to closer 'Silent Night', the album’s heartfelt closer combining ethereal tones of the flute with the rich baritone vocals of Aled and tenor vocals of Russell – the pair’s natural chemistry exudes throughout, complimented by force and grandeur of the orchestra.

In Harmony will be released on 9th November via BMG. Also announced, Aled and Russell will be taking the record on the road for their first ever joint UK and Ireland tour throughout September and October 2019, bringing their live experience to some of the country’s most beautiful venues including the London Palladium, Gateshead Sage and the Liverpool Philharmonic Hall. Dates below.

As two of the classical world’s vocal powerhouses, Aled and Russell have received countless prestigious awards, record-breaking sales and chart successes. Over his extraordinary 30 year career, Aled's outstanding performances have made smash-hit box office history. He is the original crossover star and has sung for the Pope and the Royal Family, received an MBE, released over 30 albums - with over 10 million album sales and counting - and has over 40 silver, gold and platinum discs. After beginning his career at the age of 12, Aled became one of the world’s most successful boy sopranos, releasing 12 hit albums in 4 years with the defining moment being ‘Walking in the Air’, the hit song from the family-favourite, Christmas animated film ‘The Snowman’.

As a broadcaster, Aled has forged an extensive career, having presented across BBC Radio 2 & 3 and BBC Radio Wales. Aled also hosts the Classic FM Sunday Breakfast Show and has become a popular favourite on the station and enjoyed his own show ITV Weekend.

Despite humble beginnings, Russell’s exceptional voice has led him to become one of Britain’s most popular and biggest-selling classical stars - triumphing on both sides of the Atlantic, spending fifty-two consecutive weeks at No.1 in the UK and the US classical charts at the same time. With over seven million albums sold, he has achieved six top ten albums and received four Classic BRIT Awards.

Like Aled, Russell has performed for some of the world’s most notable figures including the Royal Family, the Pope, former US presidents Bill Clinton and George W Bush, the Emperor of Japan and in front a of a worldwide audience of one billion at the opening ceremony of the Commonwealth Games in 2002.

Aled and Russell's friendship began almost 20 years ago. Their instant camaraderie and professional mutual admiration made for the perfect pairing and, no doubt, to the delight of their hundreds of thousands of fans across the globe, they are happy to announce their first album together, In Harmony - A testament to the popularity and talent of the UK’s finest classical voices, featuring a cherry-picked repertoire of personal favourites.

ALED JONES & RUSSELL WATSON

Live at

The Bord Gais Energy Theatre, Friday October 18th 2019

Tickets from €39.50 Inc. booking fee on sale Friday October 19th at 9am from Ticketmaster

Doors 7.00pm