This week is half term so I take a break from my usual Monday – Thursday evenings running Rock Choir rehearsals. Today is going to be a busy one and in a way I realise it captures so much of what makes up my work as a musician – both as choir leader, singer and performer.
Credit: Pierre LeMond Photography Studio
I’m up and out by 9am. I’m en route to meet my friend, Darren, who has asked if I can arrange a choir flashmob performance for his colleagues at the Home Office. Instead of an open plan set up (having referred to the event as their ‘town hall meeting with 200 staff’) I instead find myself in an office with work units, chairs, photocopiers and computers. Oh dear Darren never mentioned all the ‘stuff’. We talk through how (on earth) I am going to fit in 45 choir members.
I leave a little behind schedule to attend a rehearsal with Bassistry at a studio space near Elephant and Castle. It’s miserably cold day so its not ideal that the space only has one heater. Hot tea will have to suffice. I’ve been a vocalist for the group for almost 10 years but our live performances have been very occasional. Made up of a variety of top players, the band is lead by Marcel Pusey. I describe Marcel as a music entrepreneur – working internationally running workshops in composing, designing educational music software that’s sold around the world as well as making albums and collaborating with other musicians/singers (like me!).
Some of Bassistry players. Left to Right. Katy Seath, Nicola Bull, Marcel Pusey, Sam Agard.
I love his music and am excited the new album is ready to launch. Today’s rehearsal is to prepare for the show case in a few weeks. It also allows us to ascertain how the electronic sounds can be recreated on stage. It’s the first time we’ve included this element and it becomes a little stressful. While Marcel talks with Sam on drums, I check my emails. Two more choir members wanting to do the flashmob (that’s 47 now!) Another message asks if I can do a piano/vocal gig at my usual hotel near Russell Square. Having emails on your phone can mean you’re always switched on for work and being self employed it feels like you have to.
Credit: Pierre LeMond Photography Studio
Back to the rehearsal. Cues and count ins get slightly confusing and it takes some time to put things right. But once under way, it feels so wonderful to sing with the guys. There is nothing better to experience performing with such superb instrumentalists – I’m much more in my element singing live in this way than in the recording studio.
The rehearsal ends and it’s a quick au revoir as I head into central London. It’s still cold and miserable, so this time it will be wine to warm me up.
The evening is purely for pleasure as I meet with five friends at a restaurant near the Aldwych Theatre. It’s no coincidence that we’re meeting here. Afterwards we are going to watch our amazing friend, Katie Brayben, perform as Carole King in the musical ‘Beautiful’.
We all know each other through singing as part of The Rockabellas – a vintage vocal group. My experiences with The Rockabellas have been some of the most enjoyable – dressing up in ultra feminine styles, 1940’s hair, pillar box red lipstick and glamorous venues. But by far the best thing has been to make friendships and professional links with these incredibly talented vocalists. Their backgrounds range from West End to Ronnie Scotts and beyond. I have had ‘fan’ moments with all of them. Tonight is no different. Having just laughed and cried our way through the show, we stand in the rain by the stage door waiting for Katie. I’m in heaven. Not just because I am a huge Carole King fan and would say she inspired me to be a singer pianist, but also because I get to see a friend do what she loves best on stage.
To hear some examples of Katy’s work, visit katyseath.com
Bassistry’s Album ‘What The Hell Do You Call This’ can be ordered through www.bassistry.com. Their album launch is at The Hoxton Bar and Kitchen on Tuesday, 10th March, 8pm . Tickets can be purchased through ticketweb.co.uk or on the door.
Learn more about The Rockabellas and look out for their new album through www.theRockabellas.com