Sheku Kanneh-Mason's Melody - A release of his own composition from the family home in Nottingham

For the first time, Sheku Kanneh-Mason releases one of his own compositions to the public, written for solo cello, entitled ‘Melody’, out today on Decca Classics.

Having just celebrated his 21st birthday, Sheku is happy to mark the occasion with his own work, simple and beautiful with its folksong-like lilt. Those lucky enough to have seen him in concert may have heard him perform it as a surprise encore, but he had no intention of officially releasing it until now.

Speaking from his family home in Nottingham, where he is currently in situ with his six siblings, parents and fellow Royal Academy of Music flatmate, Sheku says: “I wrote this tune a while back, inspired by folk music I love listening to. I never intended to release it but felt now would be a good time to share it. I hope it might encourage people to try something new and express their creativity during this difficult time.”

The Kanneh-Mason family had been due to travel to Antigua last month to support the Antigua & Barbuda Youth Symphony Orchestra and visit relatives. Instead, the seven siblings found themselves all together, back home in Nottingham for the first time in five years.

The family have been sharing two Facebook Live videos each week (Wednesdays and Fridays at 5:30pm BST), featuring family activities and what used to be known as ‘salon’ concerts – short chamber performances in the home, originally popularised in the 19th century by the likes of Frédéric Chopin and Franz Liszt.

Their first video, available on Sheku’s official Facebook page, has accumulated over 118,000 views to date, and a deluge of positive comments from people all over the world.

 Whilst filmed totally naturally, viewers are treated to a mix of masterclasses, solo and chamber performances, ‘Q&A’ sessions, and intimate snapshots of Britain’s most musical household as they step away from the international stage and into the homes of people around the world.