Rochdale film-maker looking for sponsor for 'Music Beats Cancer' evening

John Katsoulieri with his son, Gabriel

Scroll down for Video

Rochdale film-maker John Katsoulieri (formerly Farrington) is looking for a sponsor for 'An evening of minimalist and experimental music' at Chetham’s School of Music on Saturday 11 November.

The event, set to raise funds for MacMillan Cancer Support, aims to empower, inspire and re-energise those afflicted with life-limiting conditions through music and creativity, featuring performances by composer Christopher Chaplin, Philip Glass and Steve Reich, plus the Royal Northern College of Music.

John, who was diagnosed with cancer in July 2016, turned his focus to creating music in response to the diagnosis, launching Music Beats Cancer.

He said: “When I was diagnosed, I was pretty traumatised. It all came to me when I went for a walk and decided to put the worrying into music. We want to inspire others with life-limiting illnesses and help them.”

He added: “I am very much looking forward to it. It promises to be a great evening.”

Christopher Chaplin is a Swiss-born English composer and actor, who is the youngest son of film comedian Charlie Chaplin and his fourth wife, Oona O’Neill.

He commented: “I am looking forward to appearing at this unique event and perform alongside esteemed Manchester musicians, as part of a refreshing programme of musical work to support MacMillan. Let us make music beat cancer.”

John, who has directed videos for Christopher, initially underwent chemotherapy at The Christie between September and February, which reduced his tumour to half the size. Unfortunately, a second scan revealed the tumour had not only grown back, but it had also spread.

John is now currently completing another course of chemotherapy at The Christie.

On the night, John will be composing and conducting three short pieces of music. Filmmaker Pete Tomkies is also set to produce and direct a documentary on the whole project.

Whilst all the music is in place, the event requires a sponsor before 7 October to go ahead. The package features 10 VIP tickets, an opportunity to meet the musicians, the chance to be part of the documentary, plus media coverage.

John continues to devote his time to finishing his composition, taking up conducting lessons, locating and rehearsing with classical musicians, selling tickets, planning and producing a programme of experimental and minimalist work, whilst undergoing chemotherapy and also finding time to relax.

If you would like to sponsor the event, contact John before 7 October:

john@willowtale.com