Here is a Q&A with musician Jay Joseph. She talks about her experiences in music.
Where did it all start for you getting into music?
I started playing the piano when I got one given to me from my God Mother at the age of 4 but had lessons at the age of Seven. Did play until about 10 then left it but in the mean time learnt the Trombone.
Went back to piano as well as playing the trombone with free lessons at school. Played piano got to Grade 5 but had to give it up due to starting nurse training and then qualifying as a nurse in 1991. Gave up the trombone as our school was closing down so lost the lessons and the trombone.
I then got back into music after retiring in 2015 and going to Karaoke and Open mics. Then started playing the Ukulele and back on the piano and now with St Albans Adult Training band playing the trombone. I got given a trombone from a friend who has passed away he had it sat in its box. I did say I would play it again.
Who are your influences?
My main influence is Tina Turner and I saw Diana Ross live in 1994 I think at Wembley. I listen to all genres of music. Love Whitney and Alexander O’Neil also Luther and Stevie Wonder but I grew up listening to reggae and lovers rock.
How do you decide what songs to cover?
If I hear a song and go oh I like that and cover it. Depends also if I’m in the mood to learn it. The other thing is open mics that I do and if I have to cover a song there. I’m in the ReVerBs Ukulele band but play keyboards and we have at least 70 covers.
How important is it do you feel it is to listen to current music as well as music from the past?
I listen to current music when I can but also I DJ and do Karaoke so have to update with when I do those gigs. I like listening to the past Motown and also Pop chart music. New order and other genres I like a bit of everything. It is important to try and stay current.
Do you feel it is important to watch other acts perform and to watch other live music
When I can get out and watch other acts but I am busy so this can be difficult but I guess that’s where open mics are good.
Finally what tips do you have for anyone starting out when it comes to performing live?
If I was starting out. I’d say don’t be disappointed with knock backs they can only make you stronger. Try and get out there as much as possible. Busking is good. If you do original songs mix it up with covers just to keep the audience interested and win them over with doing a few covers. Make it your style you aren’t the original artist and if you haven’t got the full production behind you so make it yours. Keep going as much as you can and get online.
Find out more about Jay on Instagram at Jay Joseph (@j_birdseven)
You can also join her Facebook group Harpenden Open Mic
Are you looking to improve your songwriting or live performance skills? Click Here to find out about my coaching sessions.
CLICK HERE to get your free copy of my Ebook called '5 Steps To Help Performers Overcome Stage Fright & Nerves & Know What To Say In Between Songs'
