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Home , All I Ask of You, Any Road, Crossover music, Faryl, Faryl Smith, G4 (group)

Margaret Keys The Gift of Music

“May your soul have the gift of music, may your heart be inspired with song. May the echoes remain in your memory, like a friendship that last’s your whole life long. Every day that you spend with music Is the best day, the best new day of the year” – John Rutter

The Irish soprano Margaret Key’s last songs backwards. This saves a lot of ‘Legato’ (her debut with time on re-takes and gives me the Universal Records) was released in confidence to ‘perform’ them as I 2006. The CEO of Universal Records would in a live setting rather than described her sound as “a voice of note bashing line by line. I always like pure warmth and beauty.” Since the recordings to flow and feel like a then, fans have been delighted to performance as opposed to a watch the blossoming of her career recording session.” and eagerly anticipated the release of The album will be her first with ‘The Gift of Music’ (they have already Tadlow Classics. Margaret shares, “I driven the release to the No.1 spot on met and collaborated with the team at the charts!). Tadlow Classics when I first recorded The new album is a collection of in Prague. They are a wonderful eighteen favorites that capture group of people and we all worked Margaret’s sparkling tone and elegant really well together. That’s a must phrasing. when recording an album!” It has been a carefully planned out The orchestration also features the venture from Margaret. “I need to be City of Prague Philharmonic really well prepared and know the Orchestra and their lush accompaniments blend exquisitely Bryn Terfel). “There was also a with Margaret’s rich voice. “When I creative team behind the overall look arrived at Smecky Studios I was and presentation of the album, but I greeted by 70 hugely talented, warm certainly had a good input into most and friendly members of the City of things. I wanted to be heavily involved Prague Philharmonic Orchestra. To in all the creative sides of the album.” perform and record a full album with One of the most difficult decisions them was an amazing experience and was settling on the final tracklist. one I will always treasure.” Margaret explains a bit of her process Although most saying, “There was such a these big catalog of music to days are choose from. I took about 2 recorded with “I wanted the album to months to gather thoughts the orchestra reflect me as a singer and ideas and I ended up and artist and as a person. So, the with a list of about 40 songs separate, this to choose from. It wasn’t an experience was songs I chose are a easy task to whittle it down more cocktail of all my though. I probably could traditional. “We musical experiences and have made 4 albums but I recorded both training” had to be strict with my vocals and myself. I wanted the album the orchestra to reflect me as a singer and live in Prague. We did this so they as a person. So, the songs I chose are could get the feel of how I wanted to a cocktail of all my musical interpret each song. We needed to experiences and training but also have the same musical approach and contain personal connections such as performing live is really the best way in ‘The Old Man’ which reflects my to do this. We also recorded some relationship with my dear late vocals later in Cambridge with father.” producer Gareth Williams.” One of the most important tracks, of The album was produced by James course, is the title song which is sure Fitzpatrick and Gareth Williams. The to strike a chord with other musicians. orchestra conducted by Gareth Margaret was looking for something Williams and the music arranged by that would represent her. The tune, Paul Bateman (who has previously composed by John Rutter, was just worked with and what she had been searching for. “[It] resonates deeply with me and so it particular track. I’m a real lover of was the perfect choice for the album the big cinematic/Hollywood sound name. It is so relevant to how I feel and Paul does this so well.” about music. Music plays such a huge Even the oft-recorded tunes are a part in my life and I am very blessed welcome addition due to the vocal to have been given this gift. I think and orchestral quality. “I wanted it to many singers and musicians can be different from other crossover relate to the of not knowing quite albums but at the same time not steer where our gift has come from, whilst away too much from what the knowing it is a blessing and gift. crossover audience enjoy. Therefore, Music is the ultimate gift both to give I wanted it to reflect the uniqueness of and to receive and I am so fortunate my own voice. What I mean by that is, to have the pleasure to share my when you hear the album, you music with the world. This is exactly instantly know it’s me singing. I think what I hope I have achieved in this the songs I have chosen highlight this album.”

“Music is the ultimate gift both to give and to receive and I am so fortunate to have the pleasure to share my music with the world.”

Some of the other standout tracks and show off the different strengths of include ‘A Sentimental Medley’ (a my voice. Musically I wanted it to be delightful blending of the standards Cinematic in nature with a little touch songs from the WWII era), ‘Where of Irish flair. To me, this approach ‘ere you Walk’ (the Handel classic is a has allowed the album to become a perfect fit for Margaret’s soprano), lovely sentimental journey between ‘All The Things You Are,’ ‘The Old me, my voice and the listener.” Man’ and ‘So Deep is the Night.’ One of my personal favorites is the Margaret’s musical background has vivacious, ‘Lovely Night.’ Of this been varied. She began by studying particular track, Margaret tells us she classical music and then graced the had a very specific vision in mind. “I stage in numerous musical theater knew the sound I wanted for this productions and has also always shared the Irish tradition of music have included performing for Pope with her audiences. As a former Francis and gracing the stages of the teacher, she offers this advice in , Carnegie Hall, regards to repertoire selection: “Sing and the . She has what you truly love to perform. If you also recorded for love a particular style, composer, era (keep an eye out on her social then that passion will shine through platforms for airing dates!) and has when you perform it. Don’t just sing toured with . What is songs that you feel you have to do and next for this talented songbird? don’t put yourself in a box either. “I have been very Experiment with fortunate with the different ideas and “Sing what you truly opportunities I have sounds. When I had within the last came across Billy love to perform… couple of years. Joel’s “Lullabye” However, I have I immediately Don’t just sing songs worked really hard to wanted to put my that you feel you get those chances but own slant to it. We was always aware of didn’t approach it have to” how hard I needed to with a pop feel but work to get there. It’s instead called been all worth it! upon my classical and Irish roots which slightly changed the overall “I will be doing more touring, feel to the song and I think it works recording and performing with the really well. Always know your wonderful in strengths and play to them but work very soon. The most on your weaknesses until they become important thing for me now is the your strength!” release of the new album on June 22nd. I am very proud of how it has all Over the last couple of years, turned out and I sincerely hope Margaret’s career has gone from everyone will enjoy it as much as I strength to strength. Some of the have enjoyed making it!” incredible highlights to her resume

The Gift of Music is available for pre-order now. margaretkeys.co.uk New Release

Royal Hollywood Love Song

Written by Olga Thomas. Performed by Arts Symphonic Orchestra Conducted, Arranged and Produced by Robert Emery Label: Arcava Music

Available Now from iTunes. www.olgathomascomposer.com

Karl Loxley

Karl Loxley burst onto the classical songs, and even ! I crossover scene with his ringing really enjoyed singing the legit, version of the ‘’ on classical crossover kind of songs so I BBC One’s ‘.’ But Karl’s stuck with that.” musical journey goes back to when he Like many young budding crossover was seventeen and first began singing. singers, Karl got his ‘big break’ on a “I had the opportunity to play Jean reality television show. “Appearing Valjean in my school production on ‘The Voice’ was a great of Les Misérables and I could just opportunity for me. I didn’t win the about sing in tune. So, I had to choose show, but it has changed my life. I between driving lessons or singing now work full-time as a professional lessons, so I went for the driving singer since the show and I get to travel the world performing my lessons.... just kidding I went for the as well as performing singing lessons and the moment I around the UK in some of the greatest sang ‘Bring Him Home’ I knew that venues.” singing was going to be my path for life.” Judge Tom Jones also helped to mentor Karl. “I was very lucky to Karl continued his training and spend some time with Sir Tom Jones. I received a full scholarship to the got to meet his family and I also got to prestigious Guildford School of have a few singing lessons with him. Acting where he studied Musical When the cameras are on and when Theatre. “Whilst I was there my they are turned off he is still Tom. I singing teachers had me sing a asked him about singing technique variety of songs from musicals, pop and he talked to me about controlled

breathing whilst singing which is how people who have supported my career he sings the big notes and maintains have come from when I used to busk his voice. I love to discuss singing regularly in Stratford-upon-Avon. The technique with other people. I think people who saw me told their friends the voice is full of mystery and we all and family and helped to get my name each have our own unique voice out there. Word of mouth is the best tool for any singer. If you support an which I think is truly special.” artist simply sharing their videos on social media and telling a friend about them is the best way to get them known. I don’t like the word ‘fans’ “I don’t like the word because I feel that creates a barrier between them and the artist. Everyone ‘fans’ because I feel who comes to support me is a friend. I that creates a barrier always do a meet and greet after my shows because I like to thank between them and the everyone for coming to support me. artist. Everyone who Without the people, there is no audience and there are no albums. comes to support me is The people who support me have a friend.” allowed me to live my dream and I am forever thankful to them.” After the Voice, Karl released his album ‘Everything I Am.’ He says, “I Some of Karl’s favorite ways to keep wanted to release an album as so his own voice in top shape are rest, many people supported me on the water, and lip trills. “It helps with show. The album was recorded with breath control and warms up the 42 musicians from The Glasgow voice without overdoing it. The voice Philharmonic Orchestra. The album is a muscle and must be stretched like features lots of different songs from you would if you were running a ‘Unchained ’, ‘Your Song’, marathon.” ‘Bring Him Home’ and ‘Nessun Dorma’ as well as the first song I ever The reason for his continued success wrote ‘Everything I Am’ which was is not only Karl’s innate musical the title song for the album. To record ability but the enthusiasm from his an album with 42 musicians was only supporters. In fact, Karl has been one possible because lots of wonderful of the most requested artists to appear people supported and pre-ordered my in our magazine! “Many of the album on PledgeMusic. Thank you once again for giving me the chance certainly helps to see the flow of a to record it!” song and it also helps me to learn the . When I wrote my Christmas Karl is also planning a new recording song ‘See the Lights’ I had this soon. “I’m currently in the planning melody in my head for like a year. I stages for my new album. The album just kept humming this tune and will be recorded with The Prague eventually decided I had to turn it into Philharmonic Orchestra. The same a song. I then started to look at orchestra that has been used to chords and create a structure for the record for , Sarah song.” Brightman, and has also provided the soundtrack for many The Voice continues to make an films. It will feature a variety of songs impact on Karl’s career. He will soon from Classical Crossover, Musical be sharing the stage with fellow Theatre, Movies and I’m currently season four contestant, Lucy working on an original song for the O’Bryne. He shares this about the album. I will be aiming to launch my upcoming show: “I’m so excited to be new album into the UK Classical performing with Lucy O’Byrne. This Album Chart. With your help of pre- will be the first time myself and Lucy ordering today, I could reach that have performed together since singing number one spot!” ‘Memory’ in front of 9 million viewers on ‘The Voice’. Lucy will be singing When it comes to learning new music some fantastic numbers from musicals Karl shares. “When learning a piece she has starred in and we will, of of music, I sometimes like to listen to course, be singing a duet...I wonder a recording and I always try and look what it could be?” at the sheet music. I’m not the strongest sight reader at all but it

Karl & Lucy will be performing at The Albany Theatre in Coventry on Friday, June 22nd. Tickets are available at www.albanytheatre.co.uk or by calling the Box Office on 024 7699 8964

You can Pre-order Karl’s new album here: www.pledgemusic.com/projects/karl-loxley-album

www.karlloxleytenor.com

The Up and comer Gabrielle Portelli

Teenager Gabrielle Portelli is a By the age of nine, it was time for crossover singer hailing from Malta. Gabrielle to seek additional assistance She made her television debut at the with her training. Not surprisingly the tender age of three on ‘Jolly Phonics’ first song she worked on in vocal an educational program for class was ‘Think of Me’. Additionally, preschoolers. “I was the youngest of “I was asked to research about the the chosen group,” Gabrielle tells us. musical at home in order to “This was my first ever television familiarize myself with what I am experience. I, together with the other singing. Almost 8 years down the line, choristers, used to sing and act to I still keep doing this with every song teach a new letter sound of the that I study.” alphabet every week.” The first school production she In addition to Jolly Phonics which became involved with was ‘Annie’ in aired Saturday mornings, Gabrielle 2015 where she played Ms. Hannigan. was fostering a love for the soprano “It required long hours of rehearsals sound by listening to ‘ of the and a lot of studying at home so as to Opera’ which she claims to still be learn the long script by heart and to “obsessed with”. Pressed for a give the best interpretation possible to favorite tune she says, “I feel that my my solo ‘Little Girls’. During the top two are ‘Masquerade’ and ‘The performance, I had a lot of quick Music of the Night’. Both of these changes requiring me to be very light songs give me chills up and down my on my feet so that I could go back up spine every time I listen to them.” on stage on time. On the whole, it was a very memorable experience which there. An older singer sang not only helped me advance in for the opening ceremony and I was but also allowed me mesmerized by the unique music and I to bond with my schoolmates who thought to myself, I would love to sing also took part in the musical.” this song someday.” She was reintroduced to the piece by her vocal More recently Gabrielle has been seen coach years later. “When I sing this on the stage in ‘Ebenezer’ playing the song, I feel a series of emotions and it Ghost of Christmas present. “This lets me use my voice in its utmost. part was much more laid back,” she Because of this, the song is very close tells us although her costume and to my heart as I truly sing it from my make-up were a different story. “My heart. Thanks to this song and the face, neck, and arms were filled with success it made on SoundCloud, I white body paint and shades of black. made my first which also My was all backcombed and full gained thousands of views and an of spray paint to give it a messy look Akademia award.” The cover helped and I wore a massive wedding dress Gabrielle reach 18th place on the and veil to give the idea of an Scottish Global Music Chart (out of elaborate ghost.” 132 entries). But makeup aside for Gabrielle “not Gabrielle is also making waves at much has changed” since Annie. home in Malta. In 2013 she was the Although musically the material youngest soloist chosen to perform pushed her beyond her normal with the Malta Philharmonic Youth comfort zone. “This presented a Orchestra. “It was such an challenge which I faced eagerly as unforgettable experience during this allowed me to be more versatile which I have learned so much.” In and create my own spin to it without 2015, she sang the national anthem at making it lose its essence. This the President’s Palace in Valletta. “I performance allowed me also to make was very praised by H.E the President a lot of new friends.” and it was such an honor to sing in front of such a significant woman in Gabrielle has recorded a version of Malta.” ‘The Voice’ by Brendan Graham and released the video to YouTube. “The Gabrielle has also shared the stage first time I heard ‘The Voice’ was in with tenor Joseph Calleja and she tells Macedonia in 2011 whilst I was us she would also love to perform participating in a singing competition with , , and Sarah Brightman. Unsurprisingly, another inspiration is . Centre Stage Malta and currently, I “I remember watching her back when am preparing for my Grade 6 Trinity she was on ‘America’s ’. College exam. At present, I am also Seeing a singer my age gaining so being coached so that I will continue much popularity for a talent such as my ABRSM exams in classical singing hers from a very tender age is and theory.” something one should appreciate and look up to.” Gabrielle hopes to continue on in university studying Psychology or Gabrielle’s voice has developed into a Theatre & Performance. “Perhaps, lovely clear soprano and she is after I graduate, I wish to go abroad continuing her studies. “At the to study music and theatre. I am still moment, I am studying English, and not quite sure what the future holds Theatre and Performance at the for me at the moment, but this is what Advanced level, and Psychology, I plan on doing. Until then, I just want Biology, and Geography at to keep studying hard so that I pass Intermediate Level at the Malta from my A-level exams next year and Junior College. I am studying Music go to University.” and Classical Singing independently at the Malta School of Music. I am also studying Musical Theatre at

Follow Gabrielle through her social media accounts:

facebook.com/gabrielleportellimusic

twitter.com/gaby_d_songbird

Celebrating 10 years

Blake By Jennie Watters

Blake has been on quite a journey for the past ten years! Named for the poet William Blake, this dashing "" of classical music has gone through some changes over the years, all the while releasing some thrilling albums and touring the world. Let us take you through the highlights.

From left to right:

❖ Dominic Tighe - Baritone ❖ Oliver (Ollie) Baines - Tenor ❖ Jules Knight - Baritone ❖ Stephen Bowman - Bass-baritone ❖ Humphrey Berney - Tenor (joined in 2009)

2007

The members of the group connect for the first time, via social media! As Jules put it, "Ollie and I were choristers at Winchester Cathedral and we'd kept in contact. Ollie was studying at Guildhall School of Music and I was trying to be an actor but we both carried on singing and thought it would be a good idea to put a group together. I'd seen Dom in a play and we knew of Stephen because the classical music circuit is quite small so we contacted them through Facebook." Shortly after, get signed by Universal and six months later they've already recorded their first album! The track list is a winning blend of classical and light that includes Jerusalem, God Only Knows (by ) and a rousing rendition of Swing Low Sweet Chariot. The album tops both the classical and pop charts in the U.K. and sells 100,000 copies within the first three weeks.

2008

Their debut album, "Blake," wins the "Album of the Year" Classical Brit award in May! The new quartet quickly follows their initial success by recording "And So It Goes." Their sophomore effort continues to build on their use of soothing harmonies and classical technique, but it also includes more pop song covers than the first. The title song was originally sung by and other tracks include Chasing Cars (Snow Patrol) and Closest Thing to Crazy (Katie .) Blake tops the charts once again and begins touring internationally, traveling to Australia and Japan. The boys connect with their fans not only through their music but also through humor as well, making the concert experience all-around entertaining.

2009

Dominic Tighe leaves the group to pursue his acting career. He goes on to get parts in BBC movies and in an play, "The ," where he falls in love with Katherine Kingsley (whom he later marries). Blake adds a fantastic new singer, tenor Humphrey Berney, to their group. They record their third album, "Together," this time not through Universal, but on their own independent label, Blake Records. It is once again a success, and the band ends the year with a sold-out tour in Scandinavia.

2010 – 2011

The World of Wildlife Fund selects Blake's song Beautiful Earth as its anthem. The boys are proud to represent the organization's conservation efforts. Blake performs twice at for the royal family. On William and Kate's wedding, Blake dedicates the song All of Me to the couple (this is not referring the John Legend song of the same title, which they actually go on to cover at a later date.)

2012

Their fourth album is the last time Blake will record as a quartet. "Start Over" is even more contemporary than their previous , with the boys drawing inspiration from the and Boyz II Men. In fact, their single So Happy ends up being the first time a classical group is featured on the BBC's Pop Radio 2 playlist. Some hardcore fans are a bit disappointed by this departure but others love Blake's new sound which makes for a perfect summertime listen. 2013 – 2014 Jules quits Blake to become a regular on a TV medical drama called Holby City. The remaining members rework their harmonies and find that they can create a similar blend even with just the three of them and decide to remain a trio. The title of their new release is "In Harmony" and it's a return to their earlier style of more classically oriented music. This album also features duets with , Rebecca Newman and Rachelle Ann Go.

2015

This year, Humphrey releases a solo project, a collection of lullabies called "Slumberland." Part of his motivation is to honor the sister he tragically lost ten years prior. "I think part of this album was wanting to do something on my own in memory of Rose. I remember sitting at the and singing Moon River with her." Humphrey performs Moon River here simply and earnestly with a gentle piano accompaniment. Other highlights include Hushabye Mountain, River Lullaby, When You Wish Upon a Star and Lullaby for a Stormy Night. The adorable cover art which adorns "Slumberland" was lovingly created by Humphrey's wife Charlotte Taylor (who is a fashion designer.) Humphrey's other reason for singing these songs was because he realized so few men record lullabies. In babysitting his cousin's son and singing for his niece and nephew, he has seen how music is an important part of caring for children. He hopes that this will be a good album for fathers to sing along to.

2016

The trio loan their voices to a seasonal offering called "A Classic Christmas" and have their own Christmas Special on BBC1 with Dame Shirley Bassey. They had met her six months prior at Bassey's 70th birthday party. "Ollie mentioned singing a Christmas song together, and I said I've never done a Christmas song before!" she later told the . Sales from their Christmas album go to the children's charities Variety and Noah's Ark Hospice. Blake has over the years supported many charities, among them Cancer Research, MIND, The , The War Widows Association, and more.

2017 - 2018 As you can see, this band boasts of a long list of achievements since their humble beginnings ten years ago. They have performed over 700 concerts across Europe, , China, the and more! The trio released yet another studio album this year, Blake's SEVENTH studio album to date, which is full of lush

, choral accompaniment and of course the beautiful harmonies their fans know and love.

The album reached No.1 in the Classical charts!

We at Classical Crossover Magazine wish Ollie, Stephen and Humphrey success in their future endeavors, and hope they will continue to delight audiences for many more years! We would also like to thank former members of Blake, Jules, and Dom, for helping to make this wonderful group what it is today.

www.blakeofficial.com

Mary-Jess Leaverland inspiration

When you ask singer Mary-Jess to musical feel, but I wouldn’t say that it describe her sound she breaks it down was an easy blend. Some of the by albums. “My debut album ‘Shine’ pronunciations are more forward in was Cinematic Classical Crossover the mouth compared to say Italian, and since then I have headed into a which is very open. Traditionally more area of Classical Chinese singing can tend to sound Crossover with more simple more nasal because of the way the arrangements that let the voice have words have to be pronounced, but I’ve the space to be an instrument in its tried to train my soft pallet to stay own right. One of my favorite quotes high even with these more forward is from one of my Grandmothers and closed pronunciations. I went on singing books, and it reads ‘The voice to study Music and Chinese studies at [has the ability] to paint in sound the the University of Sheffield, the only color of human emotions’ and so place that offered Chinese Mandarin that’s what I try to do.” with Western classical music. I wasn’t a typical student. I needed one of the Although raised in England, Mary- few scholarships available for my Jess found success on a Chinese talent second year at Nanjing University in show similar to X-Factor – and it’s all order to afford to be there, so I thanks to her language studies. “I knuckled down, got the scholarship studied Chinese Mandarin as an and went to study at Nanjing extracurricular GCSE, and not only University and it was while I was loved it but was fascinated by it.” Did there that I entered and won the the language immediately blend with show.” her singing style? “It’s a tonal language, which does give it a

Although it was a massive win in was difficult. I still want to record China, the British public was still some of them! Well, most of them!” largely unaware of her, but that was Another highlight to her resume came soon to change. The story of the when Mary-Jess was asked to sing on English girl winning the Chinese the soundtrack for the hugely competition quickly spread and Mary- successful show, Downton Abbey. “I Jess was subsequently signed to was familiar with the show, but the . “Decca gave me a first series was on when I was on tour wonderful start to my with Russell Watson, career. The main so I’d missed a skill they helped me couple of episodes hone was “One of my favorite quotes is due to the tour songwriting. I was from one of my schedule. I bought sent to every Grandmothers singing books, the box set (oh the on their and it reads ‘The voice [has days before Netflix!) books for a year and the ability] to paint in sound when I was invited to a half to write tracks the color of human emotions’ sing the theme so I for ‘Shine’. This was could make sure I to find the right and so that’s what I try to was fully caught up! sound for the album do.” Didn’t take long… and to also make we couldn’t stop sure that we loved watching it!” every song. I was clear that I did not want to make another UCJ songbook She got a chance to meet the cast at album, and because of the battle Highclere Castle. “Not only did I have between Sony and Decca to sign me, I a connection to that event through was able to negotiate a lot of creative Downton Abbey, but also through my control into my contract. The first long family connection with the song we knew we had for ‘Shine’ was forces, starting with my family owning ‘My Own Sunrise’ which I wrote with Whitehead Aircraft which built Chris Eaton, it became the benchmark biplanes for the first world war, to my for every other song after that. In the Dad being in the navy when he was end, we had 50 songs that we loved younger. Plus ‘Glorious’, the first that we had to choose between. That single from my debut album ‘Shine’, was written for the forces.”

Mary-Jess has since become an Indie numerous master classes at The Door artist and released a project entitled, Youth Project in Stroud, a wonderful ‘Prayer to a Snowflake’ which she charity that helps young people and wrote with Chris Eaton. “It’s an their families and have been a patron based on Ryuichi of the charity for many years now. Sakamoto’s ‘Merry Christmas Mr. They encouraged me to pursue my Lawrence’ and I’d always wanted to dreams to become a recording artist create a song out of it. Chris is the when I was a teenager, and now I love King of Christmas songs; having doing the same for others. There are written songs like ‘Saviours Day’ and so many things that I know now that I ‘O Little Town’ for Sir , wish someone could have told me at and so I knew he’d be the beginning of the perfect person to my career, and so write this new by doing the EP arrangement with. The “Being a Classical and working with lyrics were inspired by Crossover artist is a huge Beth Ford, Ffion the beautiful blank asset with this new Rebecca, Kyle canvas that snow Tomlinson and creates when it lies like project, as I knew that the Tazmin Barnes so a blanket on the ground, young singers I chose to closely, talking to we used that image to work with would be them about the portray the message industry, that the future is one of welcomed with open arms performing live, endless possibilities, of by my fan base, and they singing, song- ‘shimmering hope’ and really have been.” writing, that you can paint your recording, and all own path through the the other pieces of years ahead.” the puzzle that people don’t automatically put with wanting to be With success and a singer, like social media marketing, experience under her belt, Mary-Jess online marketing, web development, has become a mentor for other artists business management, marketing starting out in the classical crossover strategies, copyright, contracts, etc, I genre. Her latest recording, ‘Inspire’ hope them achieve their see’s her duetting with four up-and- dreams. Being a Classical Crossover coming singers. “I really enjoy artist is a huge asset with this new working with young people. I’ve run project, as I knew that the young singers I chose to work with would be the working day I plan what I’m going welcomed with open arms by my fan to do, look at what must be done base, and they really have been. The today and do that first, and then carry wonderful encouraging response from on with other stuff. I’ve started setting CC fans has been incredible for these alarms for bedtime and get up time young singers. Collaboration is such that are consistent every day, which is a huge part of being a musician and is difficult when you are a touring one of the best ways musician! But, when to grow your fan I am able to do it, it base, and so by means that my body putting all these knows when to go to artists on the same “The only person sleep and so I get EP they can cross- more restful sleep pollinate their fan who is responsible even though it’s bases which will give sometimes for less them a leg up that for making your time. Otherwise, your just isn’t possible dreams come true is body is in a constant otherwise.” state of jet lag, which you. So, get up, get makes it very difficult In addition to to stay focussed. My recording and out there and go do motivation behind all touring, Mary-Jess is it. Now.” of this though, is that also a blogger who I know what I want. features interview If you don’t know with her colleagues what you want, how on her website blog entitled, ‘A can you plan for what you want and Singer’s Life.’ When asked how she how can you achieve it? The only keeps herself organized Mary-Jess person who is responsible for making responds, “I’m glad it looks that way! your dreams come true is you. So, get I don’t often feel organized and up, get out there and go do it. Now.” focused! Saying that I do have my studio at home where I work, and I Her go-getter attitude is clear through often shut the door to try not to get the campaign’s she has successfully distracted. I do my Chinese study launched for Artist Signal and Pledge every morning which wakes up my Music. She offers the following brain, and then I look at my numerous advice for anyone looking to do the lists, and for the first 10 minutes of same. “Keeping people updated and in the loop is very beneficial. Keep most important things to do is to offer your fans a part of your journey all the audiences a free download if they the way and ask them what they want. sign up to your mailing list. It’s a They’re the ones who are going to be wonderful way to thank them for spending their hard-earned cash on coming along and you can then build your art, after all, so make sure it’s a great relationship with people who something that they are going to want like you and who like to support live and be happy with. Show them how music, what could be better?” excited you are about the project you They continue to collaborate, and are crowdfunding for and they will Mary-Jess will join again on tour share that passion and enthusiasm in September. “I love being on the with you and really get behind your bus with them, and the bunks are so dream. At least I know Classical comfortable, and I love cooking in the Crossover fans will. They’re slow cookers with Ben! But one of the amazing.” things I enjoy most is being around Mary-Jess has performed with several fellow musicians and chatting about successful crossover acts including music and ideas for the future. Russell Watson and G4 and calls Exciting!” them “completely different Mary-Jess takes her diet seriously experiences.” She elaborates saying, telling us that while she is currently “I toured with Russell just before vegetarian she is “on the road to ‘Shine’ was released and so these veganism.” Does it have an effect on were the biggest live audiences I had her voice? “I first gave up dairy in ever performed to at that point. The 2010 while recording Shine, I did it 70 million Chinese ‘X Factor’ viewers purely so that my voice could be as were behind cameras and watching at clear as possible for the recording. At home, so I just tried to forget the that point, I had no idea about the figures. It’s a bit more difficult when environmental, moral, or health they’re all sat there looking at you! It reasons for adopting a plant-based was a huge learning curve but Russell diet, and so still carried on eating was a great coach.” By the time she meat as I had always done. I couldn’t toured with G4, she had more believe the difference that one change experience under her belt, “So I’m made! Not only did it have the desired able to enjoy it so much more. I’ve effect for my voice, but I had so much also learned how to capitalize on more energy, I felt stronger, healthier, being a guest soprano too. One of the and I dropped a dress size! All in just a few months! Needless to say, I kept like ‘But it’s too good to be vegan!’ on avoiding dairy as much as I could So are Oreos, but they’re vegan too!” from then on.” Since her first big break came in She explains that her boyfriend has China, Mary-Jess splits her time been a vegetarian since he was 4 and between her English and Chinese fan is a successful professional athlete. base. “Happily, I have a good “As with any sport, you do what you amount in both countries, as I love can to give yourself a competitive flying back and forth as much as I edge, and he swears by his can!” vegetarianism, knowing that it has Her love for languages continues and contributed to his success.” she hopes to learn more. “I’d love to But does the diet make meal planning see the similarities between Chinese hard on the road? “Being vegetarian and Japanese, and Japan is an hasn’t made meals difficult in the amazing country, so Japanese is slightest, over 1.2 million people in certainly on the list, as is Italian. It’s the UK are vegetarian, around a beautiful language and I love 542,000 people are vegan, and the singing Italian arias.” number of people adopting a plant- Going forward what can we expect based diet has increased by 360% in from Mary-Jess? “I’ve always wanted the last 10 years, rising more now to go live in . I have daydreams than ever before.” Now there are about cycling down to a beautiful many more options to supply the village on a vintage bicycle, buying demand. “When I’m on tour with G4, some bread and flowers, studying we have two slow cookers on the bus, Italian, Italian opera and proper Ben Thapa and I love to cook for authentic Italian cooking. If I don’t everyone, and they can’t believe it come back from Italy at least two when we say that what we’ve cooked dress sizes bigger I will be very is vegan, usually saying something disappointed in myself!”

The new album “Inspire” is available from www.mary-jess.com

Catching up with G4

The last time we talked to G4 (made up of, Ben Thapa, , Mike Christie and Nick Ashby) the group was together for a one-night reunion concert. The crossover quartet which began on X-Factor have seen their unique arrangements take them to the top of the charts but had begun to peruse solo projects. However, the fan response was so incredible that they toured across the UK including a “Back for Good” tour. Now, almost four years later, they are still performing together on a regular basis and have released an album entitled, “Love Songs.”

How did the concept for this record The album features the City of Prague come about? orchestra. Did you all record live together with the orchestra or later on Mike: When we worked out that the in England? space in our schedule to release a new album would be the month of Jon: We actually recorded all the February, it made sense to tie it in vocals before the trip to Prague and with Valentine’s Day! Although most then had the brilliance of hearing the songs are about love anyway, so it orchestra join us on the tracks in real made it very hard to whittle it down to time. What a thrill! the right number for an album. Also, our duet partner for two of the songs How do you decide on songs? Do you on the album - - we have a favorite on the album? have known for years, and she’s always up for putting our own spin on Nick: We came up with a huge list of classic love songs, and so we ended songs for the album. Could have been up recording the Meatloaf classic I’d a triple disc-er, but time and money Do Anything for Love with her! didn't allow us to record them all sadly. We tried arranging them How do you decide on arrangements? acapella, just the four of us to see Are the harmonies given or is it more what would work, and some fell by the of a trial and error between you guys? wayside. During that process, the shape of an album slowly emerged, Jon: We create all the arrangements and they became THE tracks! There ourselves. They are trial and error for are always disagreements in those sure, but when we have it correct it situations, but it's healthy! It means just feels right and sticks. people have strong opinions about the music. Better than the alternative! My favorite is the Elvis track, Can't help falling in love, but I'm a bit biased as have been worried! Another highlight not only did I choose that song, but was getting to take one of our shows also infer a solo on it... to South Korea! An amazing and unforgettable trip. Especially the How did the collaborations with silkworm soup. Not going to forget Lesley Garrett and Merrill Osmond that in a hurry… I have a few shows come about? in which I'm doing solos, but no fully solo shows any time soon! Keep an Mike: We have been friends with eye on my twitter feed for more info... Lesley for nearly 15 years, having duetted with her on Barcelona back in Jonathan, you have played various 2005. When we were putting the ‘Love roles onstage and are now set on a Song’ album together, we wanted to new musical theatre collaboration include some duets, and we were keen called the “Les Musicals” tour with to duet with her again. So, we phoned . What are your her and she said yes, and even came favorite musicals and can you give us to Gibraltar with us to record the a quick preview as to what the show music video for ‘All I Ask of You’ in St will be like? Michael’s Cave amongst the damp and stalactites. Jonathan has known Jonathan: My favorite musicals are Merrill for a while and had mentioned Les Miserable and Blood . I to him we were recording a new first saw Blood Brothers when I was album, to which he said he’d love to about 14 and I was totally transfixed be involved, and that was that! It’s on the stage throughout with floods of always so humbling when musical tears emerging at the end. That’s icons want to duet with you! when my love affair with Musical Theatre begun. Nick, the last time we spoke you were ‘Les Musicals’ is a getting ready for your first concert celebration of the greatest hits from with G4. What have been the biggest the West-End and Broadway. We are highlights for you since then and do removing traditions also and tackling you have any upcoming solo shows? some of the biggest female showstoppers in a unique way. Nick: It's been a bit of a whirlwind since then really. I think that first Mike, you have made your opera moment of walking out onto the debut in Manon Lescaut. Tell us a Barbican stage for the reunion show little bit about your preparation and was a big highlight - I just had no experience with this role. Are there idea what to expect! But I got so much any roles you would like warmth from all the fans, I needn't to perform?

Mike: The opera is by one of my did was perform the role of the favorite composers, Puccini, however, President in the UK premiere of I had never performed one of his roles Stockhausen’s Mittwoch aus Licht for before. I played Geronte de Ravoir Birmingham Opera Company in 2012. who is a villain in the opera, and We repeated it at the Proms in 2013. often laughed at, so it really gave me Quite an experience! something to get my teeth into for my first ever opera role. I started to You gentlemen have been on quite an prepare by listing all the things that extensive tour and are set to continue Geronte said about other people, and dates from September through to the that other people said about Geronte end of the year. What is your favorite during the opera to get an idea of who part about touring together? I was, and found during the rehearsal, as well as the shows, that I learned Jonathan: Mainly the energy that more about my character all the time, builds during rehearsals and the tour as it’s an ongoing process. itself. It’s an amazing ride to be on as we travel and perform together each Ben, you will soon be on stage in day right around the UK. scenes of Idomeneo and soon after will be involved in Mozart’s Do you ever change song . Do you have a preference arrangements for the tour or are they for any one composer or time period performed close to the studio that seems to work best with your versions? voice? Jonathan: Versions change slightly Ben: Buxton Festival Opera have but traditionally they remain the been wonderful in giving me great same. We sometimes make them a opportunities to perform operatic little bit more complicated on stage if roles at a professional level in we discover that there are great bits amongst all of the G4 stuff. I’ve sung we should have added in the studio! a lot of Mozart but also some later Germanic repertory: Beethoven, Ben: It depends which set of words Strauss, and Wagner. That’s not stuff Jon remembers at any given time… you go into too young, so I’ve just been dipping my toes in. I still love Do you have any road essentials? Monteverdi, Bach, Handel, and I hope my love of that comes across when I Mike: A phone charger is pretty get the chance to perform it. Having essential these days, but also, I perfect pitch allows me to learn music discovered the benefits of lavender oil quickly too: one of the coolest things I last year on tour, as a few drops on the pillow each night helps calm me an absolute storm with all the and give me a better night sleep when audiences. the tour bus is rolling around the country. The classical crossover genre is being pushed in all kinds of new directions Ben: Tonic water and avocados. including genres like hip-hop! Do you think there should be parameters as to Can you tell us a little bit about the what should be considered crossover special guests you’ve had so far and or is it more difficult to define? any information about the guests for the last leg of the tour? Nick: It certainly is difficult to define and should be! I think there is good Mike: We’ve had the fortune of and bad music in all genres, and singing with so many legends in music everything should be accessible to all! including Lesley Garrett, Sir Cliff The more that people test themselves Richard, and the late , two by listening to music they wouldn't of whom we’ve performed with at the normally listen to the better. Try Royal Albert Hall. Also, due to us something new, see if it moves you if it having four different male voices, it doesn't move on, if not then explore always makes sense to have a Guest more! Soprano on tour with us to be able to sing some of the greatest love duets Are there any plans for a new album like Barcelona, I’d Do Anything for in 2019? Love and All I Ask of You. Sopranos we’ve duetted with include Laura Mike: We’re all really busy with our Wright, Lucy Kay, Margaret Keys, own projects through most of 2019, Smith and Charlotte Jaconelli but it would be great to release a to name but a few. We currently have Christmas album before our Downton Abbey Songstress Mary-Jess Christmas tour next year! on tour with us, and she’s going down

www.g4official.com

Careers in music

Joshua goines Musical director

For this month’s careers in music, we 12 or 13 years old. People would say, focus on Joshua Goines a multi- ‘I’d like to sing this whenever you talented musician (pianist/organist, have it learned, but no rush…’ and I'd singer, conductor and typically have it learned within a composer/arranger). His impressive week because I was so hungry to set of skills have allowed Joshua to perform and grow in my skills.” work in various different positions and be a musical director on various He realized quickly that being multi- projects. Recent productions include: passionate was to his advantage. In the Heights, Hairspray, and Street “Once I got to high school, I saw the Scene by . value of having many skills and I focused on , piano, and Joshua began his musical journey voice.” primarily as a singer but he very quickly developed other skills: “As Joshua also began arranging music my interest grew, I branched out into early. “One of my favorite songs from other areas of music and I only stuck my tween years was the praise song, with it if I felt I could spend the ‘Majesty’ by Jack Hayford. I would appropriate amount of time always hear it in my head as cultivating that area. At one point, I something far grander than the was simultaneously enrolled in piano, arrangement we had in the songbook. voice, & lessons.” Without writing it out, I did my own piano arrangement. Originally, this He conducted his first choir at the age was just for accompanying the of ten! “One summer I started a little congregation but later on, I would choir at church that sang along to embellish it more and use as a piano some arrangements of worship songs solo.” for kids. The CD had a split track so we used that for accompaniment while Having worked with Joshua myself, it I had my mom write out the lyrics (her is always amazing to hear how he handwriting was far better than transforms simple melodies and mine!) and we copied that for makes them stand out. His skills have everyone. We only performed once, become much in demand. “It's hard we sang two songs. All things to say what my most recent considered, it went well.” arrangement has been because I tend to work on multiple projects at once. The music lessons came in handy too More than likely, it was something we when he began accompanying other used in church and that's typically a singers. “I started accompanying chamber orchestra arrangement.” singers at church when I was around Through the years Joshua has worked conducting John Rutter’s Magnificat in many different areas of music with choir and orchestra at including as a church organist, choir Shenandoah Valley Academy. Another director and musical director for was leading many of those high various productions. So, what is the schoolers on a tour of Germany and typical schedule? “Mostly, the Austria. There's a certain rush that schedule is the same for all because comes with having an original I'm just one person working many composition performed and thanks to jobs (often simultaneously). At one of the Andrews University Singers and my busiest times, I was attending Stephen Zork, that has been a dream I classes in the morning, didn't know I had come true! I always researching/practicing/doing score love the bonds that form when study in the afternoon and then working on a musical theater piece prepping for rehearsal in the evening. and so far, there have been several. Earlier this year I was the music Still, any of my best moments can be director for two musicals and an found at church. Nothing beats having opera while still being a freshly orchestrated piece backed organist/accompanist for one church with choir, praise band, and orchestra and a contemporary music leading 1,800 congregants singing to director/arranger for another church, the top of their lungs all in worship all while preparing and coaching with and praise to God. My roots are in the two singers for their senior recitals church so I'm always delighted to and preparing to guest conduct a continue trying new things there.” choir festival. Needless to say, the days were long and there were If there’s one area Joshua wishes he several styles of music happening had more time for it would be every hour. Fortunately, I never songwriting. “Even though I compose brought the wrong score to rehearsal (and this was a legitimate concern I had while trying to juggle everything) and I only forgot my organ shoes once!”

Given the varied nature of his career thus far, it’s hard to point out only a few highlights but Joshua shares: “I've been blessed to have some amazing moments. One highlight was a little, I don't think of myself as a collaborate! Whether professional or great composer. I wish I had more amateur, I enjoy making music with time to focus on composing and anyone who wants to make music honing in those skills.” together. There are so many great artists that it would be difficult to He has many dreams for the future a choose. However, there is one person few of which shares with us. “I'd love whose voice and artistry captured my to form my own professional choir. I'd attention from a young age and I love to premiere new choral works as well as conduct some of the classic would be ecstatic if I ever got to work symphonic choral works. Nothing with Audra McDonald on a project as specific because the sky is the limit!” her music director and conductor!”

Are there any specific artists that he would like to work with? “I love to

Follow Josh through his social media accounts:

facebook.com/ JGoinesMusic

instagram.com/jgoinesmusic

Bonus Questions

❖ As a choir director, you have worked with a variety of different voices. What vocal habit do you see consistently that you wish singers would work on more? ❖ I say this to singers and I target myself with these goals as well. Singing with ease, intentionality, meaning. There are lots of technical issues we each have, but if we focus on those three areas I believe the passion that we feel as performers will be best conveyed to our audience without feeding our bad habits.

❖ Do you have any advice you can offer participants in shows etc, that would help them be better prepared? ❖ Confidence is the key! We've all been on the other side of the audition table and we know what it takes to put yourself out there. Embrace confidence as part of your personality and allow that to always lead you. ❖ Can you offer us a few things accompanists and directors wish participants knew? ❖ I can't speak for everyone else, but this comes directly from me: Learn the music as it is written and count! So many times, I work with people who have listened to cast recordings or other artists perform a song and instead of learning it themselves, they try to emulate what they hear. The problem with that is that you aren't allowing yourself to be an artist and make your own decisions. The best performance comes when you are true to yourself and your voice. Also, once you break down a score to the bare bones and know it as the composer meant, then you can really internalize it and make it your own.

Joshua currently serves as the organist in the First Presbyterian Church of South Bend and the Music Director at Pioneer Memorial Church.

Interested in becoming a Music Director? Degrees to consider: BS Performance, BA Music, BA Conducting and BFA Musical Theatre