Paul Potts
Home By Natasha Barbieri In 2007 following the success of programs like X-Factor and American Idol, Simon Cowell’s latest brainchild “Britain’s Got Talent” was poised to monopolize television. As with other reality competition producers need a strong musical act to add credibility and capture the public’s interest. The talent they were looking for came in the form of an unassuming Carphone Warehouse manager. Paul Potts had spent a lifetime dreaming of becoming a successful tenor. He had studied voice and even starred in amateur opera productions, yet the realization of his dream seemed forever outside his grasp. But when Paul Strode onto the stage set of
“Britain’s Got Talent” his life changed. His rendition of “Nessun Dorma” went viral and within a year Paul had not only won the competition but quit his job to pursue a full-time career as a classical crossover recording artist and concert performer. His story continues to inspire through his albums, book, and a motion picture. Classical Crossover Magazine caught up with the tenor to discuss his latest release, “Home.” Your new album is called, “Home.” Some people find "home" to be a specific location or country, while for others it is a person or family. What does "home" mean to you?
Singing isn’t something I do; it’s a place I belong in. It has always felt like that to me and was my saving grace through the tough times of my youth. So music and singing have always been ‘home’ to me. Your story was made into a movie called, “Once Chance.” What did it feel like to watch your life on the big screen? It felt really quite strange - especially when James Corden (who plays my character) opens his mouth and my voice comes out! I kept saying to Julie [Paul’s wife] that there was no way that I would have asked Pavarotti about the battery life of his phone. She assures me that I would have done. I bow to her greater knowledge! I myself have always struggled with nerves, so it is inspiring to see someone who was able to conquer that and have a successful career. What is the best bit of advice you could offer a fellow dreamer? I think everyone has their own way of dealing with nerves before a performance. Mine isn’t ideal as I tend to get ready for a performance at the very last moment as this leaves me with little time to think about what I am going to do. The thought of performing in front of thousands and sometimes hundreds of thousands of people (I have sung in front of an audience of over a million before!)
can be quite daunting! I think you have to find out what works for you and stick to it as much as possible. If you truly enjoy what you do, you WILL get past it. How do you choose repertoire for your album? Is it mainly your decision, or do you have a team that helps craft the vision for each record? I tend to listen to a lot of music when preparing an album - often the playlist has hundreds of pieces on it. As someone who primarily sings pieces that have been performed by others, I have to consider what I can bring to the table with my interpretation. My wife, Julz often helps with an ‘every person’ view of what she thinks will work. November Rain and the title track Home were both her ideas (she is very much a rock chick!) Singing opera requires rigorous training that is often acquired at great expense. Do you have any advice for singers who cannot financially afford lessons? Don’t skimp on lessons with a bad teacher because they are cheaper. A bad teacher can do more harm than good. Get as many good lessons with a good teacher as you can possibly afford. Choosing a teacher is a challenge as you need good chemistry with them. Don’t be afraid to try a few.
You have traveled around the world sharing your gift with others. How do you keep your voice in top form during a tour? Stay up late and drink lots of beer! No, seriously, I drink lots of water and get out and about as much as I can to sightsee and soak up the local culture and atmosphere. At the moment, I am in Seoul (for the 17th time!) and there is so much to see and do, and a performance on stage isn’t just about the singing, it’s about sharing who you are. What does your typical day look like when you are promoting a new album? I don’t think there is any such thing as a typical day when promoting a new album, and that’s what makes it exciting and fun. Some days may start ridiculously early after a late night the night before. I have had days when I finish on talk radio in New York City at 2 am and a 5.30am call time the same morning. You have to be adaptable and develop ta hick skin and plenty of stamina. You never know when or whether you will get another opportunity, so it’s really important you grab it with both hands. How often do you take voice lessons?
I take lessons as regularly as I can, bearing in mind I am out of the UK quite a lot of the time. It’s really important that you have someone else listen to your voice and give advice and tuition on how to progress. My present teacher is an Australian called Raymond Connell who teaches in London, and I have made a lot of progress with my voice with him. Do you have any hidden talents? What, apart from being a pain in the ass for my wife? I do enjoy cooking though apparently, I use every pan and utensil in the kitchen. My other passion is photography, particularly landscape photography. My wife says I have too many cameras. I don’t know, is 16 overkill?!! What has been your favorite country to perform in? The diplomatic answer would be to say that I enjoy all the places I perform in. This would be the truth, but some of the places I go are truly fascinating. I have been to Korea so many times that the people I work with there have bought me Korean language books! Korea is a fascinating place with great scenery as well as the industry for which it is famous. Germany too has some great cities away from the most famous cities like Berlin, Munich, and Hamburg.
What are some of your dreams for the future? I just want to continue to do what I love doing. For me, that is the ultimate definition of success. If what you do is what you love doing, then by definition, you are successful.
Is there any particular message you would like to impress on the minds of your listeners? I am incredibly grateful to those who enable me to do what I love, so my message is a simple one: THANK YOU!
“Home� is available now
Paulpottsofficial.com
Interview with
Faryl Smith Faryl Smith may seem like any other lovely young starlet gracing the pages of magazines these days, but she has something that is far too often missing – real talent. The nineteen-year-old mezzo-soprano first caught public attention at the age of twelve with a startlingly warm version of “Ave Maria” on Britain’s Got Talent. According to Faryl, she began singing at the age of seven, like many children her age did. Her parents did not pay particular attention until a few years later. “I think the moment that my family noticed that my voice was something special was when I won the Llangollen International Eisteddfod in Wales,” Faryl says. She was ten at the
time. “I think it was just the fact that I was so young and that so many singers aged 10-15 from all over the world had entered.” Faryl developed her talent through private lessons and involvement with a choir. She was encouraged to try out for Britain’s Got Talent. “I have always watched shows like BGT, The X-Factor and American Idol,” Faryl shares. “My family used to say to me, ‘I’m sure he [Simon Cowell’ will get to hear you one day.” They were right. Out of millions of hopefuls that audition every year, Faryl found herself selected to take part in the television audition round in front of Simon Cowell and the other judges. Although Simon has developed a
reputation for being ‘Mr. Nasty’ due at least in part to the theatricality that serves to boost ratings, Faryl needn’t have been nervous. Unlike many other young singers who attempt to sing music beyond their abilities, Faryl chose to perform Bach’s “Ave Maria” which suited her range and years. When it was her turn to perform, Faryl performed the piece with an evenness of tone throughout her range, a pleasantly dark color to her voice and vocal maturity beyond her years. The audition prompted Cowell in his usual charismatic style to proclaim that Faryl was “literally one in a million.” Faryl speaks fondly of their encounter. “To even have the opportunity to perform in front of Simon Cowell was crazy enough, but to get such lovely comments from him too was amazing. It didn’t really sink in at first." It may not have sunk in for the young performer but viewers certainly realized the quality of what they had witnessed. Faryl was the favorite to win the competition and Simon Cowell saw to it that she received additional training. Faryl eventually placed third and was immediately flooded with offers from recording labels. Faryl’s parents decided against signing with Cowell’s label Syco despite his admiration for her talent. There were concerned not only with
the immediate potential to sell albums but to protect their daughter’s personal life and vocal longevity. Faryl remains passionate about the same saying, “It is extremely important for young classical singers to protect their instrument. My teachers always made sure that I wasn’t singing anything that was completely out of my range or too difficult for me. I have always wanted to protect my voice, as I want my career to be long-term. I didn’t want to wear my voice out at such a young age.” She is grateful for the support of her family claiming that the best reasons for her success was the fact that they could share the experience together. “Because of my age, I always had to have a family member with me at all times and it was great to take them with me on the journey.” Of course, the spotlight does not come without its difficulties. “The worst part was probably missing a bit of school, it just meant that I had to work ten times harder to pass all of my exams.” Faryl eventually did sign with Universal Music Group and released a self-titled debut album. “I had never sung in a studio before I recorded my first album, so the whole experience was exciting for me.” The material on the album firmly placed her in the ranks of classical crossover singers and many saw her
as poised to become the next Katherine Jenkins. Faryl’s personal favorite? “If I had to choose one song, it would probably be Calon Lan, which is a Welsh Hymn. The reason I loved recording this song is because my granddad is Welsh and he taught me all of the words before I went into the studio. My great nan used to be a professional singer and she used to sing this song too, so the piece meant a lot to me.” Once released the album ‘Faryl’ broke records making it the fastest-selling classical solo album. The exposure from Britain’s Got Talent allowed Faryl the chance to take the album to the United States. “It was fantastic,” Faryl says of the experience. “I sang on the Ellen DeGeneres show and the Bonnie Hunt show. I received so many lovely comments from people in American and they seemed to enjoy the album.” Faryl released one more album with Universal before moving focus to her studies. She has continued to train and perform at various events including the FA Cup Final and the Epsom Derby in front of the Queen, as well as other festivals. Faryl has been a guest of Russell Watson and Rhydian Roberts of whom Faryl is particularly fond. “I always enjoy performing with Rhydian. He is really nice to my family and is very easy to work with.” Faryl is equally enthusiastic about performing for sporting events. “My
favorite sport to play is football and I like watching both football and rugby games. I always love singing at sporting events, the atmosphere is always great and you get to watch the game afterward too!” She enjoys the fashion side of performing as well. Of her performance style, Faryl says, “I try to make my style on stage sparkly, glamorous, and sophisticated.” When asked to name three random facts about herself Faryl provides the following, “I have a cat called Socks, I used to play football, and I love my Nanna’s beetroot on toast.” Recently, Faryl has been featured on the album for the International Harp Ensemble. “Both the harp ensemble and myself are signed to the same agency and we thought that it would be a good combination for a theatre tour,” she says practically and goes on to note that, “The voice and harp work great together and we are all young performers too.” Faryl has certainly matured with grace since our first introduction to her on television. Her instrument remains as beautiful as ever, though with increased range and confidence. It retains its purity and color which is a rare gift. Moreover, Faryl’s passion for music remains the same. “Music is such a big part of my life and has given me some experiences so far that I will never forget.”
Speaking of the future Faryl says, “I would hopefully like to be accepted into a music conservatory at some point, just to get as much training and knowledge as I can. All of the conservatories are at the same standard so it would just be great to attend any of them.” When questioned about the direction of her music Faryl is open to both continuing a recording career and pursuing the operatic stage. “I don’t know what will happen in the future. I didn’t think that I would be signed to Decca and have released two albums by the age of fourteen, so I never know what to expect anymore! I love performing and I think that I always
will. I think that it would be great to have a part in an opera one day. I watch the professional opera singers and aspire to be as good as them in the future.” Her conscientious choices to protect her voice so far seem to indicate that Faryl will indeed have a long career as a singer perhaps even in opera. She offers the following advice to other young performances. “Try to get as much experience in performing as you can, as it will bring your confidence out. Join choirs in your area, it’s always great to be part of a group and makes the experience fun when you’re with friends too. Most importantly, enjoy it.”
To keep up to date with Faryl’s career visit
farylmusic.co.uk
A Conversation with
Jonathan Antoine Jonathan Antoine was introduced to the world as part of a duo on “Britain’s Got Talent.” After releasing two albums with his friend, Charlotte Jaconelli, the pair parted ways. The teenager with the rich booming voice is now ready to take on the world as a solo artist. We were privileged to interview Jonathan at the very beginning of what promises to be an exciting career. I love how you say music has given your life a purpose. How important do you feel it is to find and follow your dreams? As long as it doesn't hurt anyone else, you should take every step possible to achieve your dreams, whatever they may be!
I think the incredible part of your story is that you inspire people to look beyond their narrow views and see the beauty inside. Do you have any words of encouragement or advice for other young people who are being bullied? I know most things anyone could say wouldn't help, but just know that you are not the source of the problem. It is not your fault, tell someone. And remember there is always someone that cares. You have studied at the Royal Academy of Music junior division. Please tell us more about the experience and training you received.
I've been extraordinarily privileged to be able to have such excellent tuition, from great teachers, always at the forefront for me were my singing lessons, although to receive training in composition and sight reading (I'm not very good yet!!) were big assets too - I have since had the opportunity to travel across Europe and the US to perform and take part in masterclasses, and I have learned so much. Russell Watson, Leone Magiera, Rolando Villazon, all incredible people, and teachers. I am very much a 'learn by doing' type of guy. I have regular singing lessons, access to a brilliant accompanist and language coach too, despite not being at an institution to train anymore. After two albums with your friend Charlotte, you are now ready to pursue a solo career. Can we expect the focus of your repertoire to become more classical (art songs, arias, etc) or do you intend to keep a strong crossover influence? I feel like the crossover element is kept but in an entirely different way. As opposed to modern pop songs with a classical twist, I have included some 1950s classics, some opera arias such as ‘La donna e mobile’ and Panis Angelicus which I have been singing since I was 13. Hopefully, this is an album that all can enjoy - a little cliché, I know - but there’s definitely something for everyone.
Who is your greatest tenor role model? Luciano Pavarotti. Laura Wright pursued a degree in performance while maintaining her recording career. Is attending university something that interests you? Not at present. I don't have the time to maintain my regular life! That said, I have the support network and advisors to turn to without being at university. It’s not to say it won't happen in the future, but I know it'd be at a time that was right for me. I do know that I will be studying/learning in one way or another throughout my whole life! Tell us a bit more about your guitar skills. Is that something we can expect to hear from you in the future? Maybe at an upcoming concert? Hopefully, there'll be some acoustic versions of songs from the new album coming out, too! What is your favorite thing to do when you are home relaxing? Are you are a Dr. Who fan? I just like to sit on the internet, watching shows, chatting to friends, listening to music or play guitar! I haven't watched any of Peter Capaldi – Doctor Who, but I'm intrigued to get started.
If you could meet any composer (dead or alive) who would it be? Mozart. Purity of form and melody. Do you still get nervous when performing? And if so, how do you cope? I'm nervous before every single performance! I usually take some quiet time to myself before going on stage, but nerves can help you deliver a great performance. Tell us a little bit about the behindthe-scenes process of making an album.
We recorded half the tracks at Angel studio's in Islington, with the orchestra literally in the room performing with me, and three vocal mics. The other half of the album was recorded in a church in Finchley, using five vocal mics for all-natural reverb, you can hear the room on the album! If you had to pick two other tenors to sing in a “3 Tenors” type concert, who would they be? Jonas Kaufman and Russell Watson, I have a feeling that would be such a laugh!
‘Tenore’ is out now
jonathanantoineofficial.com
Q&A with
Marisa Johnson Classical and Vegas aren't words that usually go together. Please tell us more about your experience as a Las Vegas headliner! Las Vegas was such a great experience for me. The people there are so supportive and open to new ways of being, and new forms of music. They took my Classicalcrossover singing seriously and loved it! When I release my album this summer, I had a sold-out concert, had articles written about me in all the major newspapers, and even graced the cover of the local magazine, VIM. Now that I am in Los Angeles, I plan on making this town fall in love with Classical-crossover, as well!
You sang with Andrea Bocelli on his PBS special. Can you tell us about how you were selected and what it was like to shoot a live concert special? Well, just getting the opportunity to sing with the likes of Andrea Bocelli was one of the most special highlights of my life. He is a role model to me and I can only hope that one day, I can inspire people just as he has inspired me. And performing live concerts is my most favorite thing in the whole world. The intimacy between audience and performer is a magical thing and there is nothing like it. You originated the role of Maria in the new opera "America Tropical." What were some of the highlights
and challenges of performing a new work? I love performing new, original material. As a singer/songwriter/composer, it is the most rewarding experience for me to get to create a role and a song in my own original way. When no one has sung the song/role first, you get to do your own take, which is an exciting, creative process that I love. What does your pre-performance ritual look like? It always starts with a full 8 hours of sleep. Sleep and water are so important! I try to relax, look over my music, and stay as quiet as possible. I make sure I have nothing to do on performance days except perform. It is important to me to get my head in the right space for the performance. I do meditation and listen to my favorite playlist as I’m getting ready. Original songs are important to any artist, but do think there is a special need for quality female songwriters in the classical crossover genre? Absolutely. I am a huge advocate of female original music, especially in the genre of Classical-crossover. I feel that if we are ever to be seen as our own genre, then we need to write our
own music, have our own voice, and appeal to the public in our own way. That is one of the reasons that Renee Fleming endorsed my album, in fact. She said she believed in the genre and that we need more women writing music. Although you have a background in both opera and Broadway, you have a special fondness for classical crossover music. What is it about this genre that makes such a connection with the public? I was raised in a poor, Mexican family who did not have the money nor the accessibility to expose me to the arts. But one day, I happened to see Charlotte Church on PBS, and from that day on, I was hooked. And it is because of her, and classicalcrossover music, that I am the singer I am today. Classical-crossover is the bridge to such high art forms such as Broadway and Opera. It is the gateway drug, so to speak. It appeals to people on a level and in a place that they can understand and appreciate. That is why I feel so passionate about it. I hope to bring classical music to everyone, no matter his or her social standing or financial situation. You sang two of my favorite roles, Maria in West Side Story and
Carmen in Bizet's famous opera. The roles require quite a wide range and different vocal characteristics. How do you adapt your voice to meet the challenges? Having a solid technique is the most important thing you can master. Singing different roles require a strong technique, especially switching from full opera to light musical theatre. Having a great vocal teacher and a solid practice schedule are two requirements that are crucial in your singing development. Your debut album is titled, "My Own Way." The title gives the
impression of a woman is very much in charge of her own career. What artists inspire you to be true to yourself? Thank you! It is very important to me to say exactly what I want to say, exactly how I want to say it. I know who am I am, and I share it. As any true artist does. The artists who I look up to who have done the same are Madonna, Freddie Mercury, Cher, Eminem, Elvis, Lana Del Rey, and Mumford and Sons to name a few. I try drawing from all types of music as inspiration. Good music is good music, regardless of genre.
Learn more about Marisa at
marisa-johnson.com