The Manchester International Roots Orchestra (MIRO) is a unique ensemble of musicians with roots from across the world and RNCM alumni. Our repertoire skilfully combines diverse musical influences from rousing Roma tunes, to music from the sunny Gambia, to the delicate textures of Middle Eastern percussion and vocals, original poetry and narration, alongside new jazz and classically infused compositions.
“First class music from around the globe”
This unique orchestra has performed at a number of high profile events including Migration Matters Festival (2022), Manchester Histories Festival (2022), Góbéfest (2022, 2021, 2020), Festival of Manchester (2019), Horizons Festival at HOME (2019), Tara Arts at the Southbank Centre (2019), Journeys Festival (2018) and at the Edinburgh Festival (2014).
Have a look at how we began:
Michael Cretu
Founder and Musical Director
MIRO’s Music Director is internationally acclaimed double bass player and composer Michael Cretu. Coming from a family of folk musicians whose roots stretch back to the 17th century, Michael joined the Romanian National Radio Symphony Orchestra at the age of 19 before undertaking further study in Bucharest and winning a scholarship to the Royal Northern College of Music in Manchester. Michael is an associate and artist in residence at Salford University and also a member of a contemporary jazz trio with Ed Barnwell and Mikey Wilson.
“Fabulous playing!”
Suzy Klein,
BBC Radio 3, In Tune.