This week's lunchtime masterclass is with Laura Mvula, the critically acclaimed singer/songwriter and curator of the Tia Maria Music Room.

Laura started writing songs on her laptop while working as a supply teacher in a Birmingham secondary school.

A graduate from the Birmingham Conservatoire with a degree in composition, the 26-year-old is a unique collision of her Caribbean background and formal music.

Since announcing the release of her debut EP She back in November and her debut album Sing To The Moon in March, Laura has been picking up critical acclaim and support from some of the biggest tastemakers out there with both Paloma Faith and Jessie Ware inviting her to join them on their UK tours this year.

Described as “The voice of 2013” by The Evening Standard, the classically trained, singer-songwriter’s music fuses orchestral soul with velvety harmonies and emotional vocals giving nods to Nina Simone, George Gershwin and Björk amongst others.

Laura was nominated for the 2013 BRITs Critics' Choice award and ranked in fourth place for the BBC Sound of 2013.

She has recently been revealed as the curator of the Tia Maria Music Room, a series of stylish events which first opens its doors to the public on 12 June at Soho’s Century Club. Watch a preview here.

This web chat is now live - come join in, in the comments section below

Live web chat: Laura Mvula