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How would you classify your music?
I would classify my music as instrumental and light classical with a more contemporary feel.
Who are some of your top 5 musical influences?
Currently, I would include Ludovico Einaudi, David Tolk, Gavin Luke, Paul Cardall and Richard J.Birkin. Throughout my lifetime I would include the classical greats such as Beethoven, Mozart, and Chopin along with more popular ballad musicians such as Bette Midler, Sarah MacLachan, Alanis Morisette, Jann Arden and Taylor Swift.
What do you want fans to take from your music?
You know those moments when you need a particular song that matches how you’re feeling and has the ability to make you feel better? Well, my wish is that my compositions will provide that for listeners. I want fans to experience an emotional journey and feel a deep sense of release, peace and jubilation.
How’s the music scene in your locale?
The music scene in my area is thriving and fantastic! No matter what kind of music you’re into, it’s available to hear. All of the Arts are celebrated throughout the area at Opera Houses, Performing Arts Theatres, Casino Entertainment Venues, Concert Halls and outdoor venues by the water. There are numerous centres for kids and adults to learn instruments, singing, acting, and dancing by educated Teachers and experienced Facilitators.
What is the best concert you have been to? What do you like most about playing live?
I attended the Mumford and Sons Concert a couple of years ago at the Scotiabank Arena in Toronto. It was electrifying! Every single person was out of their seats, singing every word and dancing through the entire concert, result-UNITY achieved!
I also attended the Toronto Symphony Orchestra concert, “Vivaldi’s Four Seasons” at Roy Thompson Hall. It was outstanding! The instruments were like extensions of the Musicians, each note was filled with expression, exuberance and rhythmic perfection!
When I play live, I enjoy watching the expression on the attendees faces and seeing them move to my music. I call them participants as they seem engrossed with my music and not just sitting watching as observers. I love the sense of community and unity playing live creates. It is always wonderful to hear positive feedback and know that what you are doing and what you love is being enjoyed by others too.
Is there a song on your latest CD release here that stands out as your personal favorite, and why?
I would have to say that “Green River Sway” movement No.2 is a personal favorite. I feel as though the soulful cello and bright flute harmonies blend really well together and the vibrant uplifting feeling I was going for, is evident. Also, one of my favorite piano parts is in this piece. It is actually quite tricky to play with the detached alternating left and right-hand notes at an allegro tempo. The accents must be correct or it appears as though the timing is off. The anticipation of resolution between the chordal notes adds another element of enjoyment too.
How have you evolved as an artist over the last year?
I am becoming more daring with style, instrument and sound choices and creating more harmonious layers. My piece, “Uncertain” includes the layering of synthesizer sounds which I had not recorded before. I loved the depth the pads allowed for in the bass. There are so many sounds and instruments to use and I am having fun exploring with how they sound together.
I am also less concerned with form. I don’t believe that every piece fits into the mold of Themes and Variations or Minuet and Trio, for example. Life doesn’t work that way for me, so I write what I feel and experience, whatever the resulting form.
If you could meet, play a gig, co-write a song, have dinner, have a drink with any band or artist (dead or alive) who would it be?
Currently, I would LOVE to meet and spend time with Ludovico Einaudi. It is a dream to play with him and definitely co-write a song with him. When I listen to his music, I feel as though I need to take a deep breath to prepare for the melodious phrases and sometimes surprising harmonies. He also masters the use of a pause in time like no one else I’ve heard.
What’s next for you?
Composing music for me is passion, well-being and JOY! I will continue writing as I am blessed to have melodies in my mind all of the time. My phone is full of samples that I will complete as time permits. I would like to perform live in many more places with professional musicians and provide enjoyment and peace to others as they listen to my music.
