Of the 3000 performers who audition for a place at London's Mountview Academy of Theatre Arts every year, only 25 are accepted.
One of them is Townsville vocalist Ebony Buckle, who will take up a spot at the prestigious British academy next month.
But the 22-year-old Townsville vocalist, who is finishing her Bachelor of Music at the University of Queensland, skipped the rigorous audition process.
Ebony won her place after her singing teacher, Joseph Ford, recommended she have a lesson with the academy's director.
"After that lesson he offered me a place, although you normally have to audition,'' Ebony said.
`The course is actually a Masters in Music Theatre. We study ballet, tap and jazz dancing, acting, stage combat training, film and television as well.'
"It makes us quite well rounded so we can get a job in a few different fields.'
"It is an intensive course with full days, 40 hours a week.''
At the end of the one-year course, students participate in a showcase, where Ebony is hopeful of attracting an agent in her bid to make a full-time career out of musical theatre.
"My dream is to make it on the West End and Broadway,'' she said.
"I have been learning classical music for the last three and a half years but my passion is in musical theatre.''
Ebony sought out more extensive vocal training after competing in the Townsville Eisteddfod 10 years ago.
Since then she has been an active participant in local musicals, including the Townsville Choral and Orchestral Society's Les Miserables last year.
"I have also studied acting since I was six, and I have been in a few plays,'' she said.
She's dabbled in the Brisbane music scene, forming a band with some friends recently.
"We covered a Radiohead song and performed originals.'
"That was really fun,'' she said.
In betweeen her studies, Ebony has also found time to perform at weddings, funerals and functions.
"I was singing in a choir concert once and I feel asleep. The orchestra was playing, and it must have been very relaxing,` she said with a laugh.
While Ebony will not be able to do any professional work during her time at the London academy, she will still be able to get her stage fix.
"We do put on a Shakespeare play and a musical in the time we are there," she said.
Friday, August 28, 2009
Week four of Internship
My fourth week at the Bulletin was very quiet indeed. Not only did I have my little cubicle section to myself, but I didn't actually have to conduct any interview. Instead, I just had three short stories I had to construct from media releases.
One piece was 300 word blurb on the Cinema Sessions held at the Warrina Cinema complex, the next was a small blurb on a CD competition the Guide has put on and the last was 150 words on the Hilltop Hoods return to Townsville. The last piece was mostly about ticket information. I did contact the manager for information on ticket prices and where they were available from etc, and while he had an idea - he wanted to email me the information. Which I won't get until Monday, so I will have to forward to my mentor Isis anyway. With Isis sick and Ralph (my other co-cubicle journalist) away, I didn't have a great deal too do. The editor had given me these three story when I arrived and I had finished them by 12. I checked to see if there were any other stories or little snippets I could help her with but most of the stuff had been taken care of. So to help fill in the time I did three CD reviews, which was fine by me. :)
I have acquired a new goal however...I have noticed my last two published articles (longer pieces between 200-400 words) have been sufficiently edited. Most of the changes were structual with the order of paragraphs being re-arranged. However, in both instances my lead had been pulled from a later paragraph. So my goal for the duration of my internship is to stop BURYING the lead, and if possible have very few or...possibly even no changes to my published work. I am not disappointed by the changes, in fact I am glad I have something to work on. After all this is what this internship is about, learning and bettering yourself as a writer. While this week was comparatively quiet, I have a sneaking suspicion that next week will be much busier. Until next week folks....
One piece was 300 word blurb on the Cinema Sessions held at the Warrina Cinema complex, the next was a small blurb on a CD competition the Guide has put on and the last was 150 words on the Hilltop Hoods return to Townsville. The last piece was mostly about ticket information. I did contact the manager for information on ticket prices and where they were available from etc, and while he had an idea - he wanted to email me the information. Which I won't get until Monday, so I will have to forward to my mentor Isis anyway. With Isis sick and Ralph (my other co-cubicle journalist) away, I didn't have a great deal too do. The editor had given me these three story when I arrived and I had finished them by 12. I checked to see if there were any other stories or little snippets I could help her with but most of the stuff had been taken care of. So to help fill in the time I did three CD reviews, which was fine by me. :)
I have acquired a new goal however...I have noticed my last two published articles (longer pieces between 200-400 words) have been sufficiently edited. Most of the changes were structual with the order of paragraphs being re-arranged. However, in both instances my lead had been pulled from a later paragraph. So my goal for the duration of my internship is to stop BURYING the lead, and if possible have very few or...possibly even no changes to my published work. I am not disappointed by the changes, in fact I am glad I have something to work on. After all this is what this internship is about, learning and bettering yourself as a writer. While this week was comparatively quiet, I have a sneaking suspicion that next week will be much busier. Until next week folks....
Monday, August 24, 2009
Happy Days review
While classic Reggae lyrics focus on poverty and political suppression, Lymie Murray’s debut album Happy Days has made its way into the light. When most people think of Reggae music, they think of Bob Marley’s infamous Legends album. What most people don’t realise however is that Reggae music has been growing and developing since Marley’s sixties release. As the title hints, Murray’s Happy Days is filled with lyrics of pretty girls, longing, and good times.
Murray’s velvet voice hugs around that rich horn and tinkling pianos that emerge through the guitars, bass and drums that ground the sound. Murray has stayed true to his roots by keeping the Reggae signature sound of focussing on the offbeat. However, he has also decided to push the genre’s boundaries. “I’ll take care of you” for instance, has a cool Rn’B vibe, a slick beat that moves in a circular motion that would fit perfectly into any low lit luxury bar.
Happy Days is a smooth album that passes through romantic tides as Murray yearns for the company of his current flame. This is not a painful; “I would do anything for love” kind of longing however, Murray is clearly too laid back for such Meat Loaf-ian acts of drama. Instead Murray comes from a more organic place, working from an internal paradise as optimistic phrases spills out through the speakers, leaking into your ears. “Happy days are here to stay” he sings, from his state of cemented euphoria.
Each track flows effortlessly into the next, helping creating a chilled ‘ain’t got no problems’ atmosphere. This is no cheesy Tiki shirt wearing, pina colada sipping album. Positive vibes and moving beats are presents, but it isn’t contrived, Murray is operating from an authentic front. While most artists use the struggle of pre-recording days to fuel the fire of their debut album, Murray instead offers the refreshing attitude of gratitude. Acknowledging his fortunate life, Murray sings “Got my wife, got my family, peace and love was bestowed upon me.”
While Happy days is largely upbeat, “Love we had” gives diversity to the album by allowing a darker shade to come in. Murray sings of a lost love he can not let go of, “love we had stays on my mind.” Regret seeps in as it dawn on Murray that he’s let go of a good thing singing “you meant more than I realised.” “Love we had” is cleverly followed by the album’s title track “Happy days” bringing back good vibrations.
“Everytime I touch you” features a melodic hook that gets you straight away. Murray’s heartache is expressed through his flawless vocals that remain smooth but feature a thronging intensity. It is pretty much impossible to listen to this without at least doing a head bop. Murray fleetingly shows off his falsetto (which appears to be done with ease) on this and others tracks. Happy days is a soulful ensemble that would easily thread any event together, weaving amongst its listeners and looping them together in contentment.
Murray’s velvet voice hugs around that rich horn and tinkling pianos that emerge through the guitars, bass and drums that ground the sound. Murray has stayed true to his roots by keeping the Reggae signature sound of focussing on the offbeat. However, he has also decided to push the genre’s boundaries. “I’ll take care of you” for instance, has a cool Rn’B vibe, a slick beat that moves in a circular motion that would fit perfectly into any low lit luxury bar.
Happy Days is a smooth album that passes through romantic tides as Murray yearns for the company of his current flame. This is not a painful; “I would do anything for love” kind of longing however, Murray is clearly too laid back for such Meat Loaf-ian acts of drama. Instead Murray comes from a more organic place, working from an internal paradise as optimistic phrases spills out through the speakers, leaking into your ears. “Happy days are here to stay” he sings, from his state of cemented euphoria.
Each track flows effortlessly into the next, helping creating a chilled ‘ain’t got no problems’ atmosphere. This is no cheesy Tiki shirt wearing, pina colada sipping album. Positive vibes and moving beats are presents, but it isn’t contrived, Murray is operating from an authentic front. While most artists use the struggle of pre-recording days to fuel the fire of their debut album, Murray instead offers the refreshing attitude of gratitude. Acknowledging his fortunate life, Murray sings “Got my wife, got my family, peace and love was bestowed upon me.”
While Happy days is largely upbeat, “Love we had” gives diversity to the album by allowing a darker shade to come in. Murray sings of a lost love he can not let go of, “love we had stays on my mind.” Regret seeps in as it dawn on Murray that he’s let go of a good thing singing “you meant more than I realised.” “Love we had” is cleverly followed by the album’s title track “Happy days” bringing back good vibrations.
“Everytime I touch you” features a melodic hook that gets you straight away. Murray’s heartache is expressed through his flawless vocals that remain smooth but feature a thronging intensity. It is pretty much impossible to listen to this without at least doing a head bop. Murray fleetingly shows off his falsetto (which appears to be done with ease) on this and others tracks. Happy days is a soulful ensemble that would easily thread any event together, weaving amongst its listeners and looping them together in contentment.
Friday, August 21, 2009
Week three of Internship
For the most part my third week as an intern was very relaxed. I only had one interview with the Townsville Brass Broadway left over from the week before which I had to complete, and then a few CD reviews I did in my first week that I wanted to fix up. Ridiculously I stayed up late on Thursday night re-reading reviews from my back issue of Rolling Stone, in an attempt to improve my writing abilities over night. I have no doubt that it worked. When I arrived at the Bulletin I fixed up my first CD review with a psychotic amount of attention! I spent 50 minutes on 170 words - ridiculous! I then got sent a media release by the features editor on a play called "Thursday's child." Things went very smoothly, I rang the number on the press release and the PR woman put me in contact with one of the actors in the play. Fortunately my interviewee was not shy and she gave some great quotes. I had written most of the story before I had even done the interview, so I just had to slot her quotes in and the piece was done. The PR rep also emailed me a great photo so I didn't even have to book a photo session!
The only other story I had was the Townsville Brass Broadway society. Now, I rang them every 20 minutes for the entire day last Friday - having to set up the recorder each time – and got nothing. I was not going to do that today. I rang once, after setting up the recorder, and it went straight to message bank. I decided to ring a second time 20 minutes later, but I didn’t both setting up the recorder, and what do you know! THEY ANSWER THE PHONE!! I then looked rather un-professional, apologising and asking them to hold on while I attach a mic to the phone. Then it turns out that the guys I'm talking to tells me a little bit about the production, but he really doesn't have much to say. Thankfully he promises to put me in contact with someone more informative. The mystery interviewee will call ME soon, he says. I fixed up the remainder of my reviews rather quickly and by now its 2:30pm and my phone has not rung. I decided to write a little blurb from the information I do have, just so I have something.I decided to ring the first bloke again. He apologises and says he forgot but he will ring mystery interviewee right now and I will get a call soon. Alright then...
By 3:15 I still hadn't heard back from the Brass Broadway society, and to be honest I was sort of hoping I won't. I don't really want to stay longer than necessary. Being a uni student = being a waitress so it pretty much goes with out saying that every weekend I am doing just that – waitressing (which I realise isn’t a word but forgive me). So obviously it is nice to have a break between the internship and going to work. However, the universe tends to unfold as it should, plus if they don't ring back the story will just get done by someone else on Monday, or not at all. Pretty sure the universe will continue to unfold either way ;)
I filled in the time by doing another CD review, 4’oclock rolled around and the Brass Broadway mystery interviewee hadn’t called. I wrote an email to my mentor (who was there that day) telling her what was happening with the story, and attaching the little blurb that I had written. I also told the features editor but she didn’t seem overly concerned; and so another week of my internship draws to a close.
The only other story I had was the Townsville Brass Broadway society. Now, I rang them every 20 minutes for the entire day last Friday - having to set up the recorder each time – and got nothing. I was not going to do that today. I rang once, after setting up the recorder, and it went straight to message bank. I decided to ring a second time 20 minutes later, but I didn’t both setting up the recorder, and what do you know! THEY ANSWER THE PHONE!! I then looked rather un-professional, apologising and asking them to hold on while I attach a mic to the phone. Then it turns out that the guys I'm talking to tells me a little bit about the production, but he really doesn't have much to say. Thankfully he promises to put me in contact with someone more informative. The mystery interviewee will call ME soon, he says. I fixed up the remainder of my reviews rather quickly and by now its 2:30pm and my phone has not rung. I decided to write a little blurb from the information I do have, just so I have something.I decided to ring the first bloke again. He apologises and says he forgot but he will ring mystery interviewee right now and I will get a call soon. Alright then...
By 3:15 I still hadn't heard back from the Brass Broadway society, and to be honest I was sort of hoping I won't. I don't really want to stay longer than necessary. Being a uni student = being a waitress so it pretty much goes with out saying that every weekend I am doing just that – waitressing (which I realise isn’t a word but forgive me). So obviously it is nice to have a break between the internship and going to work. However, the universe tends to unfold as it should, plus if they don't ring back the story will just get done by someone else on Monday, or not at all. Pretty sure the universe will continue to unfold either way ;)
I filled in the time by doing another CD review, 4’oclock rolled around and the Brass Broadway mystery interviewee hadn’t called. I wrote an email to my mentor (who was there that day) telling her what was happening with the story, and attaching the little blurb that I had written. I also told the features editor but she didn’t seem overly concerned; and so another week of my internship draws to a close.
Thursday's Child Story
Thursday's Child is a moving stage production adapted from the Award winning Australian Novel of the same name.
`Thursday's child is a tale of fate, of surrendering to destiny, of family and hope, but most of all it's a tale of memory,` said Director Sandra Eldridge.
Thursday's Child tells the tale of Tin, a strange and lonely boy who was born on a Thursday.
Set during the Great Depression, the story is narrated by Tin's sister Harper who is in her twenty's and looking back on their shared childhood.`
Thursday's child explores a number of different issues of family and choice but it also looks at hope,` said cast member Kate Worsley.
Thursday's child also discusses fate, have our choices been made for us or do we make the choices in our lives?
As means to escape these harsh times Tin starts digging tunnels under his house, only coming out to eat and sleep.
Becoming a ghost like character, audiences watch as Tin's home collapse due to his underlining tunnel system.
While aimed at a 12+ audience, the play has had wonderful reactions from people of all ages said Kate.
`Audiences really identity with the family, they can relate as economic problems are really relevant to people today,` she said.
Thursday's Child is produced by Monkey Baa, a travelling production making the arts accessible to remote areas.
`We are immensely proud of the work we do and cherish the opportunity to engage with young people in this way,` said co-founder Tim McGarry.
`I think we bring a whole new awakening to their imagination,` said Kate.
Thursday's Child is showing at the Townsville Civic centre Thursday 3 September, 6.30pm and Friday 4 September 9.30am and 12.00pm.
Tickets are $12 and are available from TicketShop 4727 9797
`Thursday's child is a tale of fate, of surrendering to destiny, of family and hope, but most of all it's a tale of memory,` said Director Sandra Eldridge.
Thursday's Child tells the tale of Tin, a strange and lonely boy who was born on a Thursday.
Set during the Great Depression, the story is narrated by Tin's sister Harper who is in her twenty's and looking back on their shared childhood.`
Thursday's child explores a number of different issues of family and choice but it also looks at hope,` said cast member Kate Worsley.
Thursday's child also discusses fate, have our choices been made for us or do we make the choices in our lives?
As means to escape these harsh times Tin starts digging tunnels under his house, only coming out to eat and sleep.
Becoming a ghost like character, audiences watch as Tin's home collapse due to his underlining tunnel system.
While aimed at a 12+ audience, the play has had wonderful reactions from people of all ages said Kate.
`Audiences really identity with the family, they can relate as economic problems are really relevant to people today,` she said.
Thursday's Child is produced by Monkey Baa, a travelling production making the arts accessible to remote areas.
`We are immensely proud of the work we do and cherish the opportunity to engage with young people in this way,` said co-founder Tim McGarry.
`I think we bring a whole new awakening to their imagination,` said Kate.
Thursday's Child is showing at the Townsville Civic centre Thursday 3 September, 6.30pm and Friday 4 September 9.30am and 12.00pm.
Tickets are $12 and are available from TicketShop 4727 9797
Seasick Steve review
Seasick Steve - I started out with nothing and I still got most of it left
SEASICK Steve biggest claim to fame is the fact that he use to tour with Janis Joplin and Joni Mitchell back in the sixties. He has also produced several releases for Modest Mouses, and befriended Kurt Cobain back in the ninties. He is an old blues man who's music would make the ultimate soundtrack toany Louisiana backdrop. Most of the tracks onhis latest album are very laid back and mellow with the tempo only picking up on occasion.While the instruments are relatively sparse with just a bass, tamborine and bottle neckguitar the album is incredibly atmospheric thanks to Steve's southern drawl. The only draw back is the talking at the start ofs ome of the tracks. Fortunately, most of the time Steve lets the music speak for itself.T he closing track `MyYouth` runs for an epic thirteen minutes, and speaks of bitter sweet memories. Like any good blues artist, Seasick Steve sings of the struggle of a working class man, but he does it a pleasing and smoothing manner.
SEASICK Steve biggest claim to fame is the fact that he use to tour with Janis Joplin and Joni Mitchell back in the sixties. He has also produced several releases for Modest Mouses, and befriended Kurt Cobain back in the ninties. He is an old blues man who's music would make the ultimate soundtrack toany Louisiana backdrop. Most of the tracks onhis latest album are very laid back and mellow with the tempo only picking up on occasion.While the instruments are relatively sparse with just a bass, tamborine and bottle neckguitar the album is incredibly atmospheric thanks to Steve's southern drawl. The only draw back is the talking at the start ofs ome of the tracks. Fortunately, most of the time Steve lets the music speak for itself.T he closing track `MyYouth` runs for an epic thirteen minutes, and speaks of bitter sweet memories. Like any good blues artist, Seasick Steve sings of the struggle of a working class man, but he does it a pleasing and smoothing manner.
Attack - Death Engine review
Attack - Death Engine
THRASH metal inspired guitar riffs, machine gun drums and Travis Everett's guttural vocals are the elements that give Death Engine the potential to become a staple in anytruckies collection. This album was made for long distance driving, or any kind of driving for that matter.Death Engine is the Melbourne based band's debut album, featuring 10 tracks of straight up thrash metal, but with a punk rock attitude. 'Cycle of Failure' is perfectly titled as the opening riff moves in a circular motion, rotating beneath the drums and keep the song going. 'Ready to go' is the`catchiest' of all the songs, featuring a killer intro. Allnighter also features a memorable riff with lyrics appropriateto its title.'Sniper' in particular has some insane drumming and a seriously skilled guitarr iff that is just dying to be played live. In fact,the entire album would transfer brilliantly on to any stage. While this album is not groundbreaking, it will please any long haired vagabond.
THRASH metal inspired guitar riffs, machine gun drums and Travis Everett's guttural vocals are the elements that give Death Engine the potential to become a staple in anytruckies collection. This album was made for long distance driving, or any kind of driving for that matter.Death Engine is the Melbourne based band's debut album, featuring 10 tracks of straight up thrash metal, but with a punk rock attitude. 'Cycle of Failure' is perfectly titled as the opening riff moves in a circular motion, rotating beneath the drums and keep the song going. 'Ready to go' is the`catchiest' of all the songs, featuring a killer intro. Allnighter also features a memorable riff with lyrics appropriateto its title.'Sniper' in particular has some insane drumming and a seriously skilled guitarr iff that is just dying to be played live. In fact,the entire album would transfer brilliantly on to any stage. While this album is not groundbreaking, it will please any long haired vagabond.
Matt Joe Gow and The Dead Leave - Review
Matt Joe Gow and The Dead Leaves - The Messenger
The Messenger's sounds distinctly American however, Matt Joe and The Dead Leaves actually hail from Melbourne. Ridiculous name aside the eleven featured songs are well structured with a county/rock feel. While the music does have an obvious country swing, it isn't over powering or annoying. 'The Light' comes across as an organic tale of a father telling his son not to worry, things will work out just fine. Fiddles, a harmonica and hammond organ help add a little extra colour to the standard guitar, bass, and drum line up. 'Land is Burning' has a slightly more dramatic feel, with Matt's vocals dropping and creating a darker mood. 'Things Fall Apart' has a slight row boat feel which stops the songs from sinking into melancholy. There is nothing controversial on this album, instead the focus is on human emotions, fear, lost, memories and the heavy blanket of nostalgia that is draped over each track.
Dinosaur Jr - Farm review
Dinosaur Jr - Farm
Don't let the name fool you Dinosaur Jr is anything but infantile. Having formed back in the 1980s, Dinosaur Jr knows how the game goes. Farm is the band's Ninth studio album, hardcore fans and junior listeners alike are sure to be pleased. The band's slow relaxed industrial sound lay the perfect backdrop to singer Joseph Mascis's melodic drawl. The songs are structure in a multi-layer of melodic grain guitars, and heavy bass that creating the perfect atmosphere for escapism. It is then that Mascis's relaxed voice whispers in and brings you back to earth; but you return with a more relaxed groove and easy going attitude.Guitar solo's on 'Plans' and 'Said the people' are especially worth mentioning, with their soaring scales and picked up pace that manages to invigorate without breaking the chilled groove. Farm is easy listening, with each track moving fluently into the next. The listener is sure to be taken on a ride to another level of consciousness with no hitches along the way.
Don't let the name fool you Dinosaur Jr is anything but infantile. Having formed back in the 1980s, Dinosaur Jr knows how the game goes. Farm is the band's Ninth studio album, hardcore fans and junior listeners alike are sure to be pleased. The band's slow relaxed industrial sound lay the perfect backdrop to singer Joseph Mascis's melodic drawl. The songs are structure in a multi-layer of melodic grain guitars, and heavy bass that creating the perfect atmosphere for escapism. It is then that Mascis's relaxed voice whispers in and brings you back to earth; but you return with a more relaxed groove and easy going attitude.Guitar solo's on 'Plans' and 'Said the people' are especially worth mentioning, with their soaring scales and picked up pace that manages to invigorate without breaking the chilled groove. Farm is easy listening, with each track moving fluently into the next. The listener is sure to be taken on a ride to another level of consciousness with no hitches along the way.
Friday, August 14, 2009
2nd day interning (Part 2)
Part 2
Alright, so I have now successful gotten a telephone recorder and joy of joys it actually works.
It’s true I tested it.
Twice.
The next problem was that it is 9 am in the morning - is it too early to ring someone for an interview?
I fiddle around with papers and mulled over my questions for the next 15 minutes before I gave in. Firstly I rang the produce of local Brass Broadway society, thinking he would be most likely to answer. Nothing. Then I ring vocalist Ebony Buckle, voice mail. My last option is Cairns hip hop artists, a male in his early twenties who raps – oh yeah I’m sure he’ll be awake! I ring anyway and what do you know he picks up straight away! Today is going to be a strange day.
He sounds pretty stoked at the prospect of being interviewed and is more then happy to talk about his album, his enthusiasm resulted in some great and honest quotes. I then had to ring his manager to get some photo sent through to accompany the article. Which he did, however he also had another request; he wanted me to send him a copy of the article… before it was printed. Alarm bells instantly rang in my head, remembering how many a lecture had told me to NEVER do this. I am sure it was JCU email address that gave me away. Damn.
I turned to my fellow office employee and asked “Should I send him the article?” suddenly a disembodied voice sternly and rather loudly confirms my suspensions “NO!”
“God?” I wondered.
Oh no, it’s Jane from the other side of the cubical. Phew. I then promptly write to the manager explaining that my sending him the article was unethical and detrimental to my journalistic integrity but assured him that I had represented his artist in a favourable manner. He understood. After completing this article I got a call from Ebony, asking me if we can do the interview at 12:30, which suited me just fine. Problem was though it is 10:30, I have two hours to kill. I spend these 2 hours ringing the Brass Broadway society…every 20 minutes (but to no avail), tweaking the hip hop story, getting a head start on this weeks blog entry (woo) and drinking a huge mug of coffee.
Fortunately 12:30 finally arrived and I called Ebony for the interview. It was obvious that she was nervous. It was one of those interviews where I asked open questions but only got 1 or 2 sentence answers. It wasn’t until 2/3 of the way through the interview that Ebony started to relax a bit more and give more extensive answers. After the interview was over and I was listening to the recording, I had a bit of an epiphany. Phone interviews got nothing on face to face interviews. As this was a profile piece, I had difficult adding colour and personality to the story. I had no idea what ebony looked like, or the environment she lives in. No witty anecdotes about how her mannerisms mirror her vocal harmonies. However, I heard something much worse on that tape…me.
Me going, ummmmmm, ahhhhhh, oh sorry just checking over my questions…. Don’t mind me I’m just writing - whenever there was a long silence. Of course, you would not have to say these things in a face to face interview, she can see that your writing. I think face to face is easier too, you can see who you are talking to, there is eye contact and it is more personal. Telephone interviews on the other hand are colder, and to be honest much shorter. When you make the effort to hall yourself up and go interview someone, you expect to talk for longer then 2 or 3 minutes. Unfortunately though, I don’t have the time to actually conduct face to face interviews they have to be over the phone. So I think I definitely need to get my act together and try and make this work. Luckily I have 10 more weeks to work on that.
By the end of the day I still hadn't made contact with the Townsville Brass Broadway. Oh wells, can't have everything I suppose. At least I got two interviews and stories done today which is more then what happened last week. Week two down, ten more to go.
2nd day at internship (Part 1)
While it might sound strange, I am pretty sure I was more nervous on my second day of interning then I was on my first!
My mentor Isis was not in on that day and so I knew I would be flying solo with any decision I had to make. I had received an email from Isis on Thursday detailing what my story I had to complete the following day. I had to conduct an interview with local Townsville Brass Broadway, a local hip hop artist Vixed Versa and another vocalist Ebony Buckle. I also had to book photo sessions for each interviewee.
As soon as I read the email I started to get anxious. In an attempt to settle my nervous I read through the relevant bio, poster and media releases Isis had attach to her email. I then went about plotting what questions I was going to ask. Thankfully I had already decided on what I was going to do with the Ebony Buckle interview last week so that part was done. After setting my alarm for 7:30 I went to bed Thursday night with butterfly in my stomach that would not settle. What if the interview only goes for 5 minutes and I can’t flesh out the story to make 300 or 400 words? What if I conduct the interviews but run out of time to write them? Consequently I then started to plan how I was going to use my 7.5 hrs. Ok first I will interview Townsville Broadway type up the story and interview hip hop artist before lunch, then I will complete the other stories and interviews in the afternoon. Or maybe blah blah blah blah YOUR CRAZY!!!
Won’t you know it that I woke up in the morning, slightly disorientated, rolled over to go back to sleep before the alarm in my brain screamed “You have your internship today!” I looked at my phone and realised it was 8:00! I must have woken up at 7:30 because of my alarm turned it off and gone back to sleep. I have no recollection of this but I assume this is what happened. I flung myself out of bed, through on my clothes (which I had picked out the night before thank god!) and sprinted around the house in a made panic getting ready. I sculled my coffee with the same enthusiasm people reserve for Jagerbombs on their 21st Birthday. I arrived at the Bulletin 15 minutes early...
And thank God for that because it took 15 minutes and the help of head feature editor to log me into the computer…because I had left caps lock on the entire time….idiot…. I then realised that the telephone recording device was no-where to be found, so I then had to go ask the chief of staff if I could burrow hers. You would think that all this opportunities to talk with staff members would result in me remembering their names. Nope, haven’t got a bloody clue…sorry. As you can see I have already written 550 words about my second day interning and I haven’t even gotten to the part where I actual do some work.
My mentor Isis was not in on that day and so I knew I would be flying solo with any decision I had to make. I had received an email from Isis on Thursday detailing what my story I had to complete the following day. I had to conduct an interview with local Townsville Brass Broadway, a local hip hop artist Vixed Versa and another vocalist Ebony Buckle. I also had to book photo sessions for each interviewee.
As soon as I read the email I started to get anxious. In an attempt to settle my nervous I read through the relevant bio, poster and media releases Isis had attach to her email. I then went about plotting what questions I was going to ask. Thankfully I had already decided on what I was going to do with the Ebony Buckle interview last week so that part was done. After setting my alarm for 7:30 I went to bed Thursday night with butterfly in my stomach that would not settle. What if the interview only goes for 5 minutes and I can’t flesh out the story to make 300 or 400 words? What if I conduct the interviews but run out of time to write them? Consequently I then started to plan how I was going to use my 7.5 hrs. Ok first I will interview Townsville Broadway type up the story and interview hip hop artist before lunch, then I will complete the other stories and interviews in the afternoon. Or maybe blah blah blah blah YOUR CRAZY!!!
Won’t you know it that I woke up in the morning, slightly disorientated, rolled over to go back to sleep before the alarm in my brain screamed “You have your internship today!” I looked at my phone and realised it was 8:00! I must have woken up at 7:30 because of my alarm turned it off and gone back to sleep. I have no recollection of this but I assume this is what happened. I flung myself out of bed, through on my clothes (which I had picked out the night before thank god!) and sprinted around the house in a made panic getting ready. I sculled my coffee with the same enthusiasm people reserve for Jagerbombs on their 21st Birthday. I arrived at the Bulletin 15 minutes early...
And thank God for that because it took 15 minutes and the help of head feature editor to log me into the computer…because I had left caps lock on the entire time….idiot…. I then realised that the telephone recording device was no-where to be found, so I then had to go ask the chief of staff if I could burrow hers. You would think that all this opportunities to talk with staff members would result in me remembering their names. Nope, haven’t got a bloody clue…sorry. As you can see I have already written 550 words about my second day interning and I haven’t even gotten to the part where I actual do some work.
Monday, August 10, 2009
Personal reflection
To list a few adjectives that describe myself, I would have to say;
On the other hand, some of my weaknesses are grammar and spelling (both of which I have to work hard at to get right), nerves can creep up (but I don't let them stop me), self-doubt and I can go through periods of lethargy. Another weakness of mine is that I have absolutely NO TACT! I can at times come across as rude because of my bluntness but this definitely something I am working on.
In terms of my career I believe I want to be known for being well prepared especially in terms of background information, asking original questions and presenting a different side of my interviewee. I want to be able to create an environment within my writing that takes my reader "somewhere else." Personally, I want to be known as someone who is friendless, loyal, insightful and generally someone who brings enjoyment to the lives of others.
- Reliable
- Creative
- Punctual
- Curious
- Thoughtful
- Loyal
- Blunt
On the other hand, some of my weaknesses are grammar and spelling (both of which I have to work hard at to get right), nerves can creep up (but I don't let them stop me), self-doubt and I can go through periods of lethargy. Another weakness of mine is that I have absolutely NO TACT! I can at times come across as rude because of my bluntness but this definitely something I am working on.
In terms of my career I believe I want to be known for being well prepared especially in terms of background information, asking original questions and presenting a different side of my interviewee. I want to be able to create an environment within my writing that takes my reader "somewhere else." Personally, I want to be known as someone who is friendless, loyal, insightful and generally someone who brings enjoyment to the lives of others.
Friday, August 7, 2009
First Day as an Intern
Hi everybody,
So today was my first day interning at the Townsville Bulletin. I was based in the Entertainment section of the paper, which is responsible for pull out sections “The Guide” and “Savvy.”
I was firstly shown around the building (which strangely resembled the Maze featured in ‘The Shinning’) and met all the relevant people (of which there were many). I was then given my first assignment for the day; a phone interview with Sydney based DJ Beni. I read through the media release and relevant bio material in order to form my questions. However, apparently the world didn’t want the story to go ahead.
Beni’s manager (who is getting married tomorrow and under a great deal of stress) could not get hold of the DJ. So by 4 o’clock it was pretty well assumed that the story would forever be nothing more then 15 un-answered question on a lose sheet of refill paper.
My next task was to write an article on the Townsville Oratorio Choir and book a photo time with the group. With an extensive media release given, I only had to spend five minutes on the phone with my interviewee in order to gather some good quotes. As it was over the phone, I had to use a special recording device that literally just sticks onto the phone like a suction cup. The interview went well but when I played back the recording, there was nothing but feedback! Luckily I had been taking notes during the interview, so I was able to use my scribble and complete the story.
My next assignment was to contacted local vocalist Ebony Buckle who is going away to study at the Academy of Performing Arts in London. “The Guide” wanting to do a feature on the performer, as they had previously done articles on her. I was able to knuckle down an appointment time for a photo session and organised the interview next Friday. Which by the way I have already research and formulated my questions (she said with a humble air).
The rest of the afternoon was spent reviewing CDs. This felt very comfortable to me as my ultimate goal in life is to work at one of the major Music/Rock magazines in either the UK (Kerrang or Hammer Magazine) or in America (Alternative Press or the holy grail Rolling Stone Magazine.)
While there were a few hiccups between getting people on the phone and technological difficulties, I still thoroughly enjoyed my first day. I certainly did have to ask a few questions of my mentor Isis, but for the most part I felt quite comfortable book photo sessions into the computer, submitting articles and taking the initiative to ring up my interviewees without having to be prompted.
Oh, and by the way I got to keep all the CDs that I reviewed….Nice…J
So today was my first day interning at the Townsville Bulletin. I was based in the Entertainment section of the paper, which is responsible for pull out sections “The Guide” and “Savvy.”
I was firstly shown around the building (which strangely resembled the Maze featured in ‘The Shinning’) and met all the relevant people (of which there were many). I was then given my first assignment for the day; a phone interview with Sydney based DJ Beni. I read through the media release and relevant bio material in order to form my questions. However, apparently the world didn’t want the story to go ahead.
Beni’s manager (who is getting married tomorrow and under a great deal of stress) could not get hold of the DJ. So by 4 o’clock it was pretty well assumed that the story would forever be nothing more then 15 un-answered question on a lose sheet of refill paper.
My next task was to write an article on the Townsville Oratorio Choir and book a photo time with the group. With an extensive media release given, I only had to spend five minutes on the phone with my interviewee in order to gather some good quotes. As it was over the phone, I had to use a special recording device that literally just sticks onto the phone like a suction cup. The interview went well but when I played back the recording, there was nothing but feedback! Luckily I had been taking notes during the interview, so I was able to use my scribble and complete the story.
My next assignment was to contacted local vocalist Ebony Buckle who is going away to study at the Academy of Performing Arts in London. “The Guide” wanting to do a feature on the performer, as they had previously done articles on her. I was able to knuckle down an appointment time for a photo session and organised the interview next Friday. Which by the way I have already research and formulated my questions (she said with a humble air).
The rest of the afternoon was spent reviewing CDs. This felt very comfortable to me as my ultimate goal in life is to work at one of the major Music/Rock magazines in either the UK (Kerrang or Hammer Magazine) or in America (Alternative Press or the holy grail Rolling Stone Magazine.)
While there were a few hiccups between getting people on the phone and technological difficulties, I still thoroughly enjoyed my first day. I certainly did have to ask a few questions of my mentor Isis, but for the most part I felt quite comfortable book photo sessions into the computer, submitting articles and taking the initiative to ring up my interviewees without having to be prompted.
Oh, and by the way I got to keep all the CDs that I reviewed….Nice…J
Wednesday, August 5, 2009
The following is a feature based on pub music. Enjoy!
It is Friday night and you are standing in a pub chatting with your best mate, twirling a coaster under your hand and taking regular sips from your beer. Then you hear the band play the unmistakable opening notes of Shania Twain’s “Man I feel like a woman.” Audible groans circulate around the room, however, by the time the first chorus rolls around the dance floor is filled.
“Its something I call a floor filler” says Scott Robson member of local Townsville band Two-iffik.
These “floor fillers” are usually geared toward the female half of the audience, “I find that if you keep the women happy they bring a good mood to the place.”
“You find the more women you get having a good time, then the guys will start having a good time,” he says.
Two-iffik is a regular fixture in the Townsville music scene, “I would describe us as a two man twenty piece band,” laughs Scott.
Two-iffik plays both outdoor gigs including festivals as well as regular pub gigs at both Irish Finnegan’s and The Cowboys League Club.
“We have been around Townsville for quite some time though, so we have pretty much played everywhere.”
When playing at these different venues, Scott says it is important to be aware of the audience.
“Finnegan’s is very much a party place so we will do 4 hours without a break. Cowboys Club is a different demographic altogether; the patrons tend to be middle aged so we tailor what we do for the specific crowd,” he says.
It is amazing how live music has continued to have a presence in local pubs and venues.
“Live entertainment brings a degree of uncertainty,” he says.
“The crowd does not really know what their going to get and there is a level of interaction that you don’t get from video or CD music,’
“I think live music also brings more of a focus. If you are just playing video music or CD music then there is no focal point for the bar itself,” Scott says.
When arriving at a venue the first thing Scott will do is “see whose there, what sort of crowd I have to work with.”
“If it is all blokes for example then you would probably play middle of the road pub rock, like Paul Kelly, the Eagles, that sort of stuff.”
It is clear that Two-iffik’s aims are to both entertain the crowd and give them a good night.
“I have been at venues where there have been a lot of fights and things as a result of the music they are playing,” says Scott.
“I find that most of the time they [the band playing] are appealing to their own ego and if they are not trying to work the crowd then what is the point of them being there,” he says.
When it comes to entertaining the crowd Scott does like to go all out.
Props like false teeth for country numbers, silly glasses when covering The Proclaimers and even doing a rendition of “The Rainbow Connection” with voices from The Muppets, have all been incorporated into Two-iffik’s act.
“You know it gets a laugh, and you keep people entertained. We try to entertain as much as we do perform,” says Scott.
It is this characteristic that has venues such as Irish Finnegan’s booking the band for 12 monthly increments.
“Two-iffik gets the best response” says Irish Finnegan’s manager Wayne Milne.
Similarly, Wayne also believes that live music is very important in creating an atmosphere at pubs and certainly prefers it over alternative forms, such as video music.
“People love live music, and the band selection brings a lot of people to the venue,” says Wayne.
“We have recently introduced a lounge band in the restaurant for people who want more laid back easy listening stuff as opposed to the bopper songs that are played in the public bar,” he says.
“We are trying to create two different atmospheres.”
“People are responding really well. The lounge band is drawing out its own crowd, and we are slowly but surely changing people’s idea of music,” says Wayne.
At Flynn’s Irish Bar in the city, live music is always a regular feature.
“That is why people come here, because we have live music. It’s what we are known for,” says Lynn Flynn, manager for the past eight years.
With live music appearing on the bill six nights a week, it is easy to see why Flynn’s is known for their live entertainment.
Acoustic jams are held every Tuesday night and Karaoke on Wednesdays, Thursday and Sunday have solo artists and full bands on Friday and Saturday night.
There have been some inevitable disasters over the years with P.A system failing just before a band started playing or worse.
“We had a band a few years ago that we nearly asked to stop because they were that bad,” she says.
Disasters aside, it is evident that live music will always be a venue’s preferred option for creating atmosphere and entertaining patrons.
This is good news for Townsville bands that rely on these venues for both monetary and sanity reasons.
“I can’t imagine not doing it. It would be like losing a limb,” says Scott.
Townsville pubs continue to be filled with patrons who are happy to be entertained by live musicians, even if they do play Shania Twain.
“Its something I call a floor filler” says Scott Robson member of local Townsville band Two-iffik.
These “floor fillers” are usually geared toward the female half of the audience, “I find that if you keep the women happy they bring a good mood to the place.”
“You find the more women you get having a good time, then the guys will start having a good time,” he says.
Two-iffik is a regular fixture in the Townsville music scene, “I would describe us as a two man twenty piece band,” laughs Scott.
Two-iffik plays both outdoor gigs including festivals as well as regular pub gigs at both Irish Finnegan’s and The Cowboys League Club.
“We have been around Townsville for quite some time though, so we have pretty much played everywhere.”
When playing at these different venues, Scott says it is important to be aware of the audience.
“Finnegan’s is very much a party place so we will do 4 hours without a break. Cowboys Club is a different demographic altogether; the patrons tend to be middle aged so we tailor what we do for the specific crowd,” he says.
It is amazing how live music has continued to have a presence in local pubs and venues.
“Live entertainment brings a degree of uncertainty,” he says.
“The crowd does not really know what their going to get and there is a level of interaction that you don’t get from video or CD music,’
“I think live music also brings more of a focus. If you are just playing video music or CD music then there is no focal point for the bar itself,” Scott says.
When arriving at a venue the first thing Scott will do is “see whose there, what sort of crowd I have to work with.”
“If it is all blokes for example then you would probably play middle of the road pub rock, like Paul Kelly, the Eagles, that sort of stuff.”
It is clear that Two-iffik’s aims are to both entertain the crowd and give them a good night.
“I have been at venues where there have been a lot of fights and things as a result of the music they are playing,” says Scott.
“I find that most of the time they [the band playing] are appealing to their own ego and if they are not trying to work the crowd then what is the point of them being there,” he says.
When it comes to entertaining the crowd Scott does like to go all out.
Props like false teeth for country numbers, silly glasses when covering The Proclaimers and even doing a rendition of “The Rainbow Connection” with voices from The Muppets, have all been incorporated into Two-iffik’s act.
“You know it gets a laugh, and you keep people entertained. We try to entertain as much as we do perform,” says Scott.
It is this characteristic that has venues such as Irish Finnegan’s booking the band for 12 monthly increments.
“Two-iffik gets the best response” says Irish Finnegan’s manager Wayne Milne.
Similarly, Wayne also believes that live music is very important in creating an atmosphere at pubs and certainly prefers it over alternative forms, such as video music.
“People love live music, and the band selection brings a lot of people to the venue,” says Wayne.
“We have recently introduced a lounge band in the restaurant for people who want more laid back easy listening stuff as opposed to the bopper songs that are played in the public bar,” he says.
“We are trying to create two different atmospheres.”
“People are responding really well. The lounge band is drawing out its own crowd, and we are slowly but surely changing people’s idea of music,” says Wayne.
At Flynn’s Irish Bar in the city, live music is always a regular feature.
“That is why people come here, because we have live music. It’s what we are known for,” says Lynn Flynn, manager for the past eight years.
With live music appearing on the bill six nights a week, it is easy to see why Flynn’s is known for their live entertainment.
Acoustic jams are held every Tuesday night and Karaoke on Wednesdays, Thursday and Sunday have solo artists and full bands on Friday and Saturday night.
There have been some inevitable disasters over the years with P.A system failing just before a band started playing or worse.
“We had a band a few years ago that we nearly asked to stop because they were that bad,” she says.
Disasters aside, it is evident that live music will always be a venue’s preferred option for creating atmosphere and entertaining patrons.
This is good news for Townsville bands that rely on these venues for both monetary and sanity reasons.
“I can’t imagine not doing it. It would be like losing a limb,” says Scott.
Townsville pubs continue to be filled with patrons who are happy to be entertained by live musicians, even if they do play Shania Twain.
Profile of Tracy Osmond vocalist in Townsville based band Abbey Road
The spotlight is on you, blinding you to the audience, but you know they are there watching you. With a skintight dress on and enough hairspray to punch a hole through the ozone layer, you approach the mike stand to belt out the Tina Turner classic “You’re simply the best.”
Suddenly, you realise that you do not remember a single lyric. The only sound coming from the stage is the click of your heels as you step back. Then you hear a voice say “You’re on” and you are shoved back into the light.
“I remember thinking God if there was ever a time I needed you it’s now!” says Tracey Osmond lead vocalist of local band Abbey Road.
“I don’t know how it happened but I just opened my mouth and the words came out.”
Luckily for Tracey disasters such as this have been a rarity.
After being in over 15 bands, Tracey certainly knows her way around a stage. Growing up in a house where her Dad’s band was constantly meeting for rehearsals and her mum was always singing, Tracey says she never had a music ‘aha’ moment. “Joining a band was just what you did in our family,” she says.
Having such strong musically roots certainly paid off. At the age of 22 Tracey received a pivotal phone call from New Zealand band Mr President. They were greatly impressed by one of her performance at the Seaview Hotel in town and invited her to become apart of their act.
Mr President had secured the position as the house band for a club in Rockhampton. As Tracey lived in Townsville, she was flown down every Friday night and flown back every Monday morning.
“It was amazing having that much money spent on me. The fact that I brought so much to the band that it warranted spend that much money…” says Tracey as she rolls her eye in disbelief.
“It was pretty huge.”
“Being this little girl from Townsville who gets flown out every weekend to perform with a band to crowds of 2000 was absolute amazing! It was a complete fairytale,” she recalls.
Eventually Mr President went on to compete at the Yamaha MTV awards where they came runners up.
“We were this close,” Tracey says laughing.
If you are having a hard time imagining what Tracey sounds like, chances are you have already heard her sing. “I’ve got hundreds of jingles out there” she says as she burst into a live demonstration of the television jingle for “Superior Patio Systems.”
She has even worked in clubs on the same night as The Angles and Jimmy Barnes, though she is quick to brush those tales to the wayside in preference for what is happening now.
What Tracey is truly passionate about these days is teaching. “I was never trained so I had a lot of problems,” she says.
After losing her voice at 22, Tracey started to rebuild it herself by seeking out private teachers, studying at the South Bank Conservatorium and completing a degree in vocal pedagogy.
“My goal is to teach kids how to use their voice so that it holds up when they are playing clubs and shows.”
Tracey now teaches nine till five every day and has built a school with over 70 students.
“I also have another teacher with me and she has 22 students of her own,” she says proudly.
“It’s a real full circle, going out into these bars and seeing my own students up there performing,” says Tracey.
“It’s my passion now, maybe even more then singing.”
While Tracey’s current band Abbey Road is in high demand for club work, corporate events and performances at Cowboys games, she says that her favourite gig is the Special Children’s Christmas Party each year.
“When I get on stage, I feel completely overwhelmed, like it is the most magical moment of my life. I feel that every year and I have been doing it for eight years. You really count your blessings,” she enthuses.
Though Tracey loves standing in the spotlight, microphone in hand, it is teaching that has proven to be her greatest passion. At least in the safety of her home studio, it’s no big deal if she forgets the lyrics.
Suddenly, you realise that you do not remember a single lyric. The only sound coming from the stage is the click of your heels as you step back. Then you hear a voice say “You’re on” and you are shoved back into the light.
“I remember thinking God if there was ever a time I needed you it’s now!” says Tracey Osmond lead vocalist of local band Abbey Road.
“I don’t know how it happened but I just opened my mouth and the words came out.”
Luckily for Tracey disasters such as this have been a rarity.
After being in over 15 bands, Tracey certainly knows her way around a stage. Growing up in a house where her Dad’s band was constantly meeting for rehearsals and her mum was always singing, Tracey says she never had a music ‘aha’ moment. “Joining a band was just what you did in our family,” she says.
Having such strong musically roots certainly paid off. At the age of 22 Tracey received a pivotal phone call from New Zealand band Mr President. They were greatly impressed by one of her performance at the Seaview Hotel in town and invited her to become apart of their act.
Mr President had secured the position as the house band for a club in Rockhampton. As Tracey lived in Townsville, she was flown down every Friday night and flown back every Monday morning.
“It was amazing having that much money spent on me. The fact that I brought so much to the band that it warranted spend that much money…” says Tracey as she rolls her eye in disbelief.
“It was pretty huge.”
“Being this little girl from Townsville who gets flown out every weekend to perform with a band to crowds of 2000 was absolute amazing! It was a complete fairytale,” she recalls.
Eventually Mr President went on to compete at the Yamaha MTV awards where they came runners up.
“We were this close,” Tracey says laughing.
If you are having a hard time imagining what Tracey sounds like, chances are you have already heard her sing. “I’ve got hundreds of jingles out there” she says as she burst into a live demonstration of the television jingle for “Superior Patio Systems.”
She has even worked in clubs on the same night as The Angles and Jimmy Barnes, though she is quick to brush those tales to the wayside in preference for what is happening now.
What Tracey is truly passionate about these days is teaching. “I was never trained so I had a lot of problems,” she says.
After losing her voice at 22, Tracey started to rebuild it herself by seeking out private teachers, studying at the South Bank Conservatorium and completing a degree in vocal pedagogy.
“My goal is to teach kids how to use their voice so that it holds up when they are playing clubs and shows.”
Tracey now teaches nine till five every day and has built a school with over 70 students.
“I also have another teacher with me and she has 22 students of her own,” she says proudly.
“It’s a real full circle, going out into these bars and seeing my own students up there performing,” says Tracey.
“It’s my passion now, maybe even more then singing.”
While Tracey’s current band Abbey Road is in high demand for club work, corporate events and performances at Cowboys games, she says that her favourite gig is the Special Children’s Christmas Party each year.
“When I get on stage, I feel completely overwhelmed, like it is the most magical moment of my life. I feel that every year and I have been doing it for eight years. You really count your blessings,” she enthuses.
Though Tracey loves standing in the spotlight, microphone in hand, it is teaching that has proven to be her greatest passion. At least in the safety of her home studio, it’s no big deal if she forgets the lyrics.
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