marcH
(London)
Monday 1 Jul 2019, 6:15pm
Hi,
I'm a 48 year old singer-songwriter and classically trained guitarist based in Barnet, Hertfordshire. I'm searching for a competent (sight reading) piano accompanist (preferably female as I feel it creates a better 'balance' but that’s not a definite) who enjoys playing songs from musicals (Lionel Bart, Rodgers & Hart etc.) and standards from the 30s - 50s from Gershwin, Porter, Berlin etc., and also ‘newer’ melodic songs from artists such as Katie Melua, Cat Stevens, The Beatles and Neil Sedaka. I also enjoy singing my own songs. I would particularly like to introduce more of a jazzier side, and love the songs and style of Blossom Dearie and Gregory Porter.
For the past 15 years I have been performing at care homes, charities, open mics and community festivals, sometimes with a piano accompanist - paid and unpaid (before that I performed in amateur musicals and comedy revues). I need to find someone who has the time to commit to a long term collaboration. I have got to the stage where I feel I’m not fulfilling my potential and should be making more of my talent before it’s too late. In 2015/2016 I was lucky enough to have been involved with 5 professional singers/actors in a staged showcase of original cabaret/musical style songs from a published composer/pianist - which was great fun and very satisfying. It fired up my creativity and ambitions and made me realise that this is what I really need to be doing, even if it’s part time to begin with. It also reminded me that 'you know what, I can do this, and pretty well!'
My aim is to make some money, have fun, enjoy my singing and ultimately to progress quickly. I've got a pleasant voice (more powerful/in a different style to when I'm singing my own songs on guitar, which can be heard at www.marcharris.co.uk) and had singing lessons many years ago.
There are a number of things I'd like to do. Occasional community/charity events (which usually would not be paid), ‘music spots’ at venues, and possibly private functions for weddings/parties (as background music for receptions). I would ideally like to put a great set of songs together so that we can be up and running within 3 months or so - ready to perform. Another project which I wish to pursue (recently thought of) is to put together a show of Neil Sedaka songs – not as a tribute act but I love singing his uplifting songs, my voice is suited to his material, and I also believe that there is commercial potential in performing his songs as a show, at theatre venues. It would also be great to add drums and guitar at a later stage.
I'm not looking to become famous by the way but it would be great to be able to make my way musically - performing, earning a living doing what I enjoy, and creating opportunities which one day soon could ultimately take over from my day job. Hopefully you will have similar ambitions also. I look forward to speaking with you and hopefully meeting up in order to create a unique and special musical partnership.
Best wishes,
Marc