El Rashid
Eleanor Claire Farkhanda Rashid, commonly known as El Rashid, is a multifaceted British-Pakistani singer, songwriter, and musician. Based in London, her musical tapestry weaves together elements of jazz, western classical, electronica, and alternative pop, creating a distinct and captivating sound that resonates with audiences globally.
El Rashid's musical footprint expanded with the 2023 release of her debut single, 'Fall,' a collaborative endeavor with Pakistani singer-songwriter Natasha Humera Ejaz under Tiny Dancer Live. The song was a result of the two meeting at 2022's British Council Nepal-based Residency 'Spark!' organized by Dialled In, Cape Monze Records, Kaalo and Wavlength. The track's acclaim, featured on 'New Music Friday' Spotify playlists and aired on BBC Introducing and BBC Asian Network, solidified her position as a rising star.
Currently, El Rashid is fervently working on her debut EP, slated for release in 2024. Further exciting collaborations beckon, including projects with Samuel Kubrick Finney (UK), Foseal (NP) and Noni-Mouse (IN). Under the moniker 'Wenlock Edge', with Tim Gardener, she is set to drop albums, further fusing Eastern and Western classical music, jazz, trip-hop, dance, and electronic genres.
El Rashid's live performances are nothing short of mesmerizing. Whether captivating audiences in packed stadiums or intimate clubs, she effortlessly navigates through improvisation, graphic scores and genre-defying compositions.
Background:
A distinguished alumna of Goldsmiths, University of London, El Rashid graduated with a First-Class Honors in Music (BMus). Her academic prowess in contemporary western art, specifically her soprano singing performance, earned her one of the highest honors in the history of her course. This foundation paved the way for her to become a soloist with Goldsmiths Sinfonia, undertake leading roles with Opera Gold Company, and perform internationally, including notable appearances in Denmark with Il Corpo Cantante.
As a seasoned jazz vocalist, El Rashid's voice has graced prestigious venues such as The Royal Albert Hall, Ronnie Scotts,, The Royal Festival Hall, Barbican, collaborating with renowned entities like the National Youth Jazz Orchestra. Her improvisational prowess shines through in intimate settings, including jazz clubs like Ronnie Scott’s.
Beyond her performing endeavors, El Rashid's commitment to musical innovation is evident through her work as an Early Years Music Practitioner with Wigmore Hall Learning, Creative Futures and Roundhouse. Her outreach initiatives, including the notable 'Tales of Our Heritage' workshops, reflect her dedication to diversifying musical narratives and spaces. Furthermore, her podcast, 'On Repeat,' delves deep into the exploration of genre hierarchies and the potential of popular music in early years education.
