Ce Soir!
It’s
a coming-out-party of sorts tonight for chanteuse Karen Myatt, as the
sultry songstress kick-starts her solo career with a soiree of smooth standards
and special surpises at The Carleton Music Bar & Grill in Halifax.
Recently, the singer spoke with Arts East about her the concert.
Why the
decision to go solo?
I've
always dreamed of branching out to do some jazz material. This show is sort of
my launching pad for this. Very excited to perform some of the standards I've
been listening to since I was child.
How does
it differ from working with a partner?
It is a
lot more work of course! I love collaborating with other actors and musicians,
it makes the experience so rich. Also, having a partner on stage...they are
kind of like a safety net. Someone to look to if you forget a lyric or need to
deal with something unexpected. There is that extra energy. Working solo leaves
room, however, to discover who you are as a performer. And build the trust that
you can hold the stage and make it your own. I've had a blast creating this
set!
What has
gone into the preparation for this concert?
Well a
long list of tasks need to be accomplished daily, from scheduling rehearsals,
to collecting music, to publicity and what the heck I am going to wear!!..?? Its
a lot of work, and a lot of love.
What can
audiences expect?
An
evening of smooth classic jazz standards, with some spice, stories and special
guests peppered throughout. A lot of music you know and love and some new tunes
you may have never heard before. And delicious food if you make dinner
reservations!!
How did
you go about choosing the material?
Much of
the music is what I've been longing to sing with a band for quite some time.
Some songs are old favorites of mine and many are brand new. I want an evening
of variety. Classic, contemporary, ballads, blues, rock...! Its all there.
Who will
be performing with you?
I am
honored to be joined by three fantastic musicians. One of my favorite drummers;
Stephanie McKeown, the brilliant David Langstroth on bass, and the incomparable
jazz pianist; Holly Arsenault. I also have a few surprise guests...but I'm not
telling who!!
What else
are you involved in these days?
I am part
of a wonderful little musical at the Theatre Arts Guild called The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling
Bee. The show runs June 20th -
July 7th. It is hilarious with great music and a fabulous cast and crew. I am
also looking forward to singing with the Rhapsody Quintet here in Halifax in
June.
What's
next on your creative agenda?
The
recording studio and an album is next for me! Also planning our next shows with
Stuart Hiseler and Wild Abandon Productions for this summer and fall.
Karen Myatt, June 2, 8pm, The
Carleton, Halifax
Reprinted with kind permission from Arts East / www.artseast.ca
