A talented teenage singer-songwriter, Bella Ross, is gearing up for her first-ever music festival performance at the Latitude Festival this weekend. The 16-year-old from Stonham Aspal, Suffolk, is set to take the stage at midday on Saturday, performing on the Inbetweeners Teen Stage.
Bella, who describes herself as the “biggest Taylor Swift fan in the whole world,” received her invitation to perform after impressing judges at the IEMusic Young Artist competition. This opportunity is particularly special for her, as she has never attended a music festival before.
In an interview with BBC Radio Suffolk’s Wayne Bavin, Bella expressed her excitement, saying, “Being asked to play has really boosted my confidence, and I just want people to think I’m good.” She recognizes the significance of this moment, noting, “I am too excited for it because it’s an opportunity I will never get again – there are not a lot of people who get to Latitude Festival at my age.”
Her friends are equally thrilled for her, eager to support her journey and share in the experience. Bella’s rise to this moment came after she showcased her talent at the IEMusic Young Artist competition held at St. Stephen’s Church in Ipswich, where she was crowned the winner. Reflecting on the competition, she remarked, “The standard of performers at the auditions was incredibly high, and I was one of the youngest there. When the judges announced I had won, I was speechless. I had been so nervous, but I am very glad I went on stage now.”
As she prepares for her performance, Bella is also looking ahead to her studies at One sixth form college in Ipswich, starting in September. She has already made strides in her music career, releasing three singles on Spotify, including a charity song inspired by her mother’s battle with cancer.
“I am not Ed Sheeran-level yet, but I am so passionate about my songwriting and I want to release as much music as I can,” Bella shared. “Even if this was just a bedroom hobby, I would still enjoy it as much. But the fact I get to do what I love and get something from it is really, really cool.”
The Latitude Festival, taking place in Henham Park, Suffolk, features a diverse lineup of well-known artists, including Duran Duran, Kasabian, London Grammar, The Vaccines, and Keane. Bella’s inclusion in such a prestigious event at her young age is a testament to her talent and hard work.
As she prepares for her performance, Bella is filled with anticipation and a touch of nervousness. She hopes to connect with the audience and leave a lasting impression. “I just want to share my music and hopefully make people feel something,” she said.
The festival atmosphere is sure to be electric, and Bella is ready to embrace the experience. “I can’t wait to be on stage and perform for everyone,” she said. “It’s going to be an unforgettable moment for me.”
With her passion for music and determination to succeed, Bella Ross is poised to make her mark at the Latitude Festival. As she steps onto the Inbetweeners Teen Stage, she will not only be representing herself but also inspiring other young artists to pursue their dreams.
As the festival approaches, Bella’s excitement continues to build. She is grateful for the support of her friends and family, who have been cheering her on every step of the way. “I feel so lucky to have such amazing people in my life,” she said. “They believe in me, and that means everything.”
In the days leading up to the festival, Bella has been rehearsing diligently, fine-tuning her setlist and preparing for the big day. She understands the importance of this opportunity and is committed to giving it her all.
As she reflects on her journey so far, Bella is filled with gratitude for the experiences that have brought her to this moment. “I never imagined I would be performing at a festival like Latitude,” she said. “It’s a dream come true.”
With her talent, passion, and determination, Bella Ross is ready to shine at the Latitude Festival. As she takes the stage, she will undoubtedly leave a lasting impression on the audience and pave the way for her future in music.
Source: BBC Radio Suffolk
