In an exhilarating turn of events, Leeds student Nadia Kadek has secured a coveted slot at this year’s Glastonbury Festival. The 21-year-old, a soon-to-graduate from the Songwriting course at Leeds Conservatoire, was named one of the runners-up in the festival’s highly competitive Emerging Talent Competition.
The competition, which attracts thousands of online entries annually, is known for its rigorous selection process. From the initial submissions, an expert panel whittles down the entries to just eight artists who then perform live at Pilton Working Men’s Club. This year, Nadia impressed the judges, including festival co-organiser Emily Eavis, Glastonbury stage bookers, and music industry professionals, with her standout performance.
Reflecting on her achievement, Nadia said, “It’s been very surreal, crazy and something that I never thought would ever happen. I am hugely excited about playing at Glastonbury. When I was younger, I went to the festival and was very immersed in live music and festivals. I have some very early memories of it and being in lots of mud, so this is going to be a full-circle experience for me.”
In addition to her performance slot, Nadia received a £2,500 Talent Development prize from the PRS Foundation, underscoring her potential and the bright future ahead. Her unique blend of pop and indie pop elements creates a distinctive sound that is both catchy and thought-provoking, with her compositions often weaving narratives that resonate deeply with listeners.
Nadia’s journey to this point has been marked by several highlights within Leeds. Earlier this year, she opened for Marika Hackman at The Wardrobe and was selected for the artist submission at the Live at Leeds festival in 2023. These experiences have honed her craft and prepared her for the grand stage of Glastonbury.
This year’s Glastonbury Festival, set to take place from 26 to 30 June, promises to be a spectacular event with headliners such as Dua Lipa, SZA, and Coldplay. The Sunday legends slot will feature the iconic Shania Twain. Nadia’s performance will undoubtedly be a highlight, adding her fresh, local talent to the star-studded lineup.
For more information about the festival, visit Glastonbury Festivals. To learn more about Leeds Conservatoire and its programs, visit Leeds Conservatoire.
