It’s the 22nd of December and we commemorate the Winter Solstice today with ‘Rainbow Of Light (Anthem)’, written by Linda Lamon and sung by Katerina Mina.
Katerina Mina is a London based opera singer. Born in Cyprus of Greek-Cypriot heritage, the Spinto Soprano moved to London to study at the Guildhall School of Music and Drama, after her initial studies in Cyprus. She received full scholarships from the Corporation of London and the AG Leventis Foundation, and was originally training to become a concert pianist, but her love and passion for music took over. Katerina decided to devote herself to singing, and became an opera singer. Recently appearing as a special guest in Rick Wakeman’s symphonic concert at the Queen Elizabeth Hall with the Orion Symphony Orchestra, Katerina has also performed at many International Music Festivals and sang live on BBC London Radio 94.9FM’s show, ‘A World In London’.
‘Rainbow Of Light’ was written to help celebrate UNESCOs International year of Light, which launched in March this year.
Linda Lamon was inspired to write the song after attending Starmus, the international astronomy festival held in Tenerife last September, which is where she met Katerina, who performed at the closing ceremony with Alexandros Hahalis and Rick Wakeman.
“The lyrics are made up from key words I picked up from the speakers at Starmus, who included Richard Dawkins, Stephen Hawking, Brian May, and astronaut Charlie Duke. I am not a scientist, but the festival really opened my mind about the universe and our planet, so I wanted to try and convey my message to others in a simple way with song,” says Linda.
“When I met up with Katerina in London, she heard the initial simple version I sang and played on guitar. She loved it, so we decided to record it, adding cello, violin, and double bass to keep the mysterious feeling of the Earth’s plight and the dark night intact.”
The classical themed piece, which was recorded in London and Dorset, UK, is now being sent out to organisers of the worldwide events listed on the IYL website. “When I saw what the International Year of Light was all about, I realised I had a song that fits their purpose exactly, so I sent it to the global secretariat in Italy — they loved it and agreed to distribute it ,” Linda explains.
‘Rainbow Of Light’ is all about the mysteries of the universe, and asks the big question, “are we alone?”
‘Rainbow Of Light (Anthem)’ is Katerina’s first single, and was written by UK composer Linda Lamon and produced by Nigel Stonier. It’s released today on iTunes and all other digital outlets to commemorate the Winter Solstice.
