Nocturnal Woman
When and why did you
first become involved with music?
I
come from a very musical family, but my Grandmother is the main culprit here.
Growing up with a woman who taught herself to play the piano at the age of 13
meant many a sing-along and is the reason I have such a love and connection to
the American Songbook and jazz standards. She still plays the same piano by ear
to this very day; over 80 years later.
Are they the same
reasons you do it today?
My
Grandmother's influence and the influence of the music she played remains with
me as an artist. Much of the material I sing is reminiscent of the Golden Era
and the great vocalists I grew up listening to. Now, I get to explore some of
the same music but with my interpretation and collaboration with some brilliant
musicians.
What are the challenges
of the vocation?
A
huge challenge for me and many artists, I believe, is balancing business with
art. We have a product to promote and sell. Yet it is easy to forget this as we
focus so intensely on honing our craft, creating, rehearsing... The discipline
it takes to work on our art is the same discipline we need when it comes to
contracts, publicity, sales... Not only are we artists, but businessmen!
What are the rewards?
How
to narrow this down? Making music is such a joyful experience, for the musicians
and (hopefully) the listeners! But I think a real gift as a singer is that
constant opportunity for growth and re-creation. The ability to wipe the slate
clean or to climb the next rung on the ladder, I never stop learning, studying,
growing.
What have been some
career highlights?
My
favorite aspect of my career is the variety of performance styles I've been a
part of. In New York, I've had some unique opportunities like singing in quirky
improv shows in charming little theatres, or on the Town Hall stage in the
showcase; "Broadway's Rising Stars." In Halifax I've enjoyed the
stage at Neptune Theatre, an incredibly fun cabaret series with writing partner
Stuart Hiseler, and have begun my solo jazz career, performing with the
Rhapsody Quintet, and recording my first album with the wonderful trio of Holly
Arsenault, David Langstroth and Brock Caldwell.
How did you get involved
with Nocturne this year?
Earlier
this year, David Langstroth of the Rhapsody Quintet mentioned to me that
he was arranging the Beatles' Sgt. Pepper album for the group. I was instantly
intrigued and very eager to hear when and where it may take place, not fully
realizing I may be involved myself! Needless to say it was an honor when he
asked me to join them for the performance.
What can audiences
expect from your performance?
This
is a very special performance. The orchestral elements of this classic album
lend themselves so perfectly to the Quintet, especially with David's master
arrangements. The sound is beautiful and haunting, but it rocks too! Some songs
are instrumental and some with voice and the finale will be danced by Ballet
Jorgen. This piece is very moving. It is so cool to see and hear all of these
artists "come together" (no? anyone?) to present this classic Beatles
music.
Why is it an important
event for the community?
The
Nocturne Festival brings together many forms of art, performance, exhibitions
which are presented in a completely accessible way. The public has an
opportunity to experience art in a unique, interactive, and open environment.
This festival makes art available to everyone, and builds the community.
What are your thoughts
on the state of the arts in Halifax/Atlantic Canada?
There
is no lack of art in this part of the world. Quality top-notch artists work and
reside here. Sometimes, the difficulty here is reaching the public, growing
audiences and therefore the community. Finding ways to get more people excited
about art in Atlantic Canada, we need to continue to encourage and fund
festivals like Nocturne that make new and live art accessible for all.
What's next on your
creative agenda?
Looking
forward to appearing in A Christmas Carol at Neptune Theatre this holiday
season! I’m also continuing production on my debut cd; "Enchanté" and
planning a launch in Halifax for early 2014.Karen Myatt, with Rhapsody Quintet and Ballet Jorgen
Tonight at The Art Gallery of Nova Scotia in Halifax
6pm-11pm
