Gwenno

Here’s the event page content for Gwenno at The White Hotel, Manchester:

Gwenno at The White Hotel, Manchester

Saturday, 1 November 2025

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About the Event

Prepare for an evening of captivating sonic exploration as Welsh electronic pioneer Gwenno graces the stage at Manchester’s revered industrial haven, The White Hotel, on Saturday, 1 November 2025. This promises to be more than just a gig; it’s an immersion into Gwenno’s unique universe, where ethereal melodies intertwine with driving electronic rhythms, all delivered with a distinctly Cornish and Welsh sensibility. Her performances are renowned for their intimate yet powerful atmosphere, drawing audiences into her meticulously crafted soundscapes. For those seeking music that transcends the ordinary, that challenges perceptions and soothes the soul simultaneously, this is an unmissable date in the Manchester calendar. It’s an opportunity to witness an artist at the height of her powers, sharing her critically acclaimed work in one of the city’s most distinctive and celebrated venues.

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About Gwenno

Gwenno Saunders, known simply as Gwenno, is a formidable and singular voice in contemporary British music. Born in Cardiff and raised in St. Ives, Cornwall, her artistic lineage is as rich as her musical output. Her mother, Lynwen Davies, was a member of the pioneering Welsh-language pop group Côr Cochion Caerdydd, and her father, Geraint Saunders, was also a musician. This upbringing instilled in Gwenno a deep connection to her Celtic heritage and the power of expressing oneself through music in one’s native tongue.

Her career began in the early 2000s with the Welsh-language synth-pop band The Pipettes, where her vibrant stage presence and catchy tunes quickly garnered attention. However, it was her transition to a solo career that truly allowed her distinctive artistic vision to flourish. Her debut solo album, Candylane (2012), showcased an immediate embrace of vintage synthesizers and dreamy pop sensibilities.

The true breakthrough came with Y Dydd Olaf (The Last Day) in 2014. This ambitious concept album, sung entirely in Welsh, explored themes of alienation and humanity’s relationship with technology in a dystopian future. It was met with widespread critical acclaim, lauded for its sophisticated songwriting, innovative production, and Gwenno’s assured delivery. The album cemented her status as an artist who could seamlessly blend experimental electronic textures with infectious pop hooks.

Her subsequent releases have continued to push boundaries while retaining her signature sound. Le Kov (The Place of Memory) in 2018, sung in Cornish and Welsh, further explored themes of identity, landscape, and language, earning her nominations for the Welsh Music Prize. Her most recent album, Tresor (Treasure) in 2022, sung in Welsh and English, continued this exploration with shimmering synthesizers, propulsive beats, and deeply personal lyrical narratives. Notable tracks that have resonated with audiences and critics alike include “Pat Yma Pydaw,” “I Am A Stranger,” “Chwyfor,” and “Ardha.” Gwenno’s commitment to her heritage, her masterful command of electronic instrumentation, and her ability to craft songs that are both intellectually stimulating and emotionally resonant make her a truly exceptional artist.

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Venue Information

The White Hotel is a multi-disciplinary arts venue located in the heart of Salford, just across the River Irwell from Manchester city centre. Housed in a former industrial building, it has become a vital hub for experimental music, art installations, and community events. Its raw, unpretentious atmosphere, characterised by exposed brickwork and industrial architecture, provides a unique and intimate backdrop for performances, fostering a direct connection between artist and audience. The venue is known for its commitment to showcasing diverse and often avant-garde talent, making it the perfect setting for Gwenno’s distinctive sound. For complete venue details, including directions, accessibility information, and bar facilities, please see our venue guide.

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What to Expect

Prepare to be transported by Gwenno’s meticulously curated live performance. Her sets are a masterclass in sonic layering, weaving together the intricate electronic soundscapes and compelling vocal melodies that define her solo work. Audiences can anticipate a journey through her acclaimed discography, with selections likely to span the atmospheric synth-pop of Candylane, the conceptual depth of Y Dydd Olaf and Le Kov, and the shimmering explorations of Tresor.

Expect to hear fan favourites and critically lauded tracks such as the hypnotic “I Am A Stranger,” the driving “Chwyfor,” the ethereal “Ardha,” and the captivating “Pat Yma Pydaw.” Gwenno often performs with a carefully chosen set of synthesizers and electronic equipment, allowing her to recreate the complex textures of her studio recordings with impressive fidelity while also embracing the spontaneity of live performance. Her vocal delivery is consistently breathtaking, ranging from delicate whispers to powerful, anthemic pronouncements, often delivered in her native Welsh and Cornish languages, adding a unique lyrical and cultural dimension to the experience.

Gwenno’s performance style is one of focused intensity. She commands the stage with a quiet charisma, allowing her music to take centre stage. While her electronic arrangements can be complex and driving, there’s an underlying warmth and emotional resonance that draws the listener in. Her visual presentation is often understated, allowing the sonic artistry to be the primary focus. The duration of her sets typically allows for a deep dive into her catalogue, providing ample time to absorb the nuances of her carefully crafted songs. Expect an evening that is both intellectually stimulating and viscerally engaging, a testament to Gwenno’s singular artistic vision.

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FAQs

Q1: Will Gwenno be singing in Welsh and Cornish at this show?

Yes, Gwenno is renowned for performing in her native Welsh and Cornish languages. While some of her work also features English lyrics, a significant portion of her critically acclaimed output is in these Celtic languages. Her performances are a beautiful showcase of these languages, woven into rich electronic tapestries.

Q2: Can I expect to hear songs from her latest album, Tresor?

Absolutely. Gwenno’s live sets typically feature a strong representation of her most recent material. Fans can certainly anticipate hearing tracks from her 2022 album, Tresor, alongside beloved songs from her previous albums.

Q3: What is Gwenno’s usual performance duration?

Gwenno’s live sets are generally substantial, offering a comprehensive experience of her artistry. You can expect a performance lasting approximately 75 to 90 minutes, allowing for a deep exploration of her discography.

Q4: Is Gwenno known for interacting with the audience during her shows?

While Gwenno’s primary focus is on the sonic experience of her performance, she is known to connect with her audience through her captivating stage presence and occasional spoken words between songs. Her connection is more through the immersive nature of her music than extensive banter.

Q5: Are there any specific technical or visual elements unique to Gwenno’s live shows?

Gwenno’s live shows are characterised by her sophisticated use of synthesizers and electronic production, meticulously recreating her studio sound. While not overtly flashy, her performances often feature subtle, atmospheric lighting that complements the mood of her music, enhancing the immersive quality of the experience.

Q6: Is it possible to buy merchandise at the venue?

It is highly probable that Gwenno will have a merchandise stall at The White Hotel, offering albums, vinyl, and potentially other branded items. It’s always advisable to bring cash, although many stalls now accept card payments.

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