Iona Kaye

Iona Kaye is a prize-winning English Mezzo-soprano currently studying at the Royal Northern College of Music under the guidance of Mary Plazas. Recent competition successes as a soloist include first place in the RNCM English Song Competition, and third prize in The Dorothy Richardson English Song Prize. Born in Yorkshire, Iona joined the Opera North Youth Chorus as a teenager, where her passion and commitment to classical singing was ignited. Whilst at the RNCM Iona has been a member of the Symphony Chorus, performed in Janáček's The Cunning Little Vixen, Johann Strauss' Die Fledermaus, played Shining One in Vaughan William's The Pilgrim's Progress for RNCM opera scenes, and Smeralinda in Jonathan Dove's The Little Green Swallow for RNCM opera scenes.

Iona is a passionate recitalist who recently gave a recital at Buxton Pavilion Arts Centre as an RNCM Songster and has given a plethora of recitals at venues in the North of England. As a keen collaborator, Iona often seeks projects where she can work alongside other musicians and composers. Collaborative engagements include premiering pieces by RNCM composers for Unheard Hybrid Online, the Rosamund Prize and International Women's Day at The International Anthony Burgess Foundation.

Iona is a co-founder of Manchester-based ensemble Nomad. Nomad has performed at Factory International's Aviva Studios for Manchester International Festival and won first prize in the Elias Chamber Music Prize. Iona recently wrote a theatrical new work – The Gardener’s Daughter - which combines her love of theatre, poetry and music. This October, The Gardener’s Daughter was premiered at RNCM by Nomad and Iona played the title role. She thoroughly enjoyed juggling her responsibilities as storywriter, artistic director, composer and performer and is excited for Nomad’s future prospects. Outside of music, Iona is passionate about rock-climbing and loves spending weekends in the Peak District.