LIPA students set to embark on Spain Tour with neo-folk artist Karmento

A group of music and management students are preparing to embark on an international tour as part of LIPA’s long-standing collaboration with Spain’s Sociedad de Artistas Intérpretes o Ejecutantes (AIE).

The collaboration, which first began in 2000, sees LIPA students build a dedicated backing band and management team to tour alongside an established Spanish artist. This year, they will perform across Spain and the UK with acclaimed singer-songwriter Karmento.

Originating from the Serranía de Albacete, Karmento began her musical career in 2012 while living in Malta, where she released her debut album Mudanzas. She has since become a successful touring artist and a key figure in contemporary Spanish neo-folklore, with her 2024 release La Serrana recently winning the Academy of Music Award for Best Folk Album.

“The collaboration with the AIE gives students great experience of touring at the next level, with an experienced Spanish artist,” says Tim Pike, Director of the School of Music. “Many of the students that have taken part in the past have gone on to tour and perform professionally with well-known artists in the UK and beyond.”

The project will culminate in a send-off performance here at LIPA, forming part of this year’s LIPA Fringe Festival, followed by a four-date Spanish tour, performing in venues across Madrid, León, San Vicente do Mar and Viveiro.

The tour dates are:

• Wednesday 17 June – Café Berlín, Madrid

• Thursday 18 June – Teatro San Francisco, León

• Friday 19 June – El Náutico, San Vicente do Mar (Pontevedra)

• Saturday 20 June – La Conservera, Viveiro (Lugo)

The send-off show on June 5th will take place at the LIPA Canteen, entry to the concert is free and open to all.