Steve Pretty (and Friends) On the Origin of the Pieces Kids

Why do drums make us want to dance? Can a seashell become an instrument? And what happens if you try to play a trumpet underwater? 

Join musician and composer  Steve Pretty (leader of Hackney Colliery Band, described by BBC Radio 2 as ‘one of the greatest live bands that we have in this country’) for a live show packed with live music, discovery and brilliant special guests. 

You’ll hear amazing instruments from around the world, learn to hear like a musician, meet world class musicians from a range of diverse genres, and help create brand new sounds on the spot — all while exploring how music works and why it’s such a powerful part of being human. 

Based on Steve’s hit podcast (‘wide-ranging and insightful’ The Guardian), this new family format of his much-loved live shows launches with a joyful, interactive performance at Wilton’s. Expect sonic surprises, musical experiments and the kind of joyful energy that means ‘you’ll leave better informed and happier about the world’ (Whatsonstage). 

Steve’s guests will include:

DJ Steady- 10-Year-Old Mixing Prodigy
At just 10 years old, Steady is taking the dance music world by storm. With less than two years behind the decks, she’s already achieved what many DJs spend a lifetime chasing. A Mixmaster 2024 finalist and the youngest DJ ever to play in Ibiza, and has been hitting up the UK festivals this year, her skill, passion, and stage presence have made her one of the most exciting rising talents in the scene.

Spanner Big Band
A 16-piece big band playing everything from Duke Ellington to David Bowie. Kids get a front row tour of the incredible range of instruments that make up a big band (and even a chance to conduct), while later, adults will enjoy the eclectic playlist, left field humour, scope and ambition of this alternative big band.