Rachael Byrnes

This blog needs some loving

2012-02-17T13:40:00.001+11:00

Hey everyone, I admit it, this blog needs some love and attention by me big time!!!! Here's an idea to fill it up with some extra content... If you have been to any of my shows over the past 6 months and would like to submit your thoughts, reflections, photos, videos and inspirations email me on rachaelhopebyrnes@gmail.com
And I'll pop it up here as a guest blog post :) looking forward to your musings! Xx

Drunken Poet Gig - Wed 30 Nov - wine whiskey women feat!

2011-11-26T11:41:00.000+11:00

Catapult Song Content - Vote for me!

2011-10-22T12:27:00.002+11:00

Hi Guys!

As my friends, family and fans, I’d love you to support me in what could be an amazing help to my music career. I’ve taken been given an opportunity to enter my songs into Catapult Song Contest 2011 presented by Underground Talent and I’m hoping you can help by voting for my song Truth is a Loaded Gun. There are over 1000 entrants from across Australia and to make it to the next step, I need to get into the Top 50.

The Top 50 songs with the most votes are then given to some amazing industry judges including John Foreman, Tim Blackwell (Nova FM) and Natalie Gauci to rank their Top 8 in order of preference. If you could help me get into the Top 50 by voting for my song and also spreading the word to your other Facebook friends that would be super cool!

Here’s how it works: (there are a few steps involved I apologise- they've done it this way for marketing purposes. That's why it's free for us to enter... it is a GREAT comp though, so if you could spend a couple of mins following the steps I'd be so pleased!!)

Mobile phone users - you'll need to turn OFF "Mobile View" in your phone browser settings

1. Go to www.facebook.com/CatapultSongContest from your Facebook and “like” their page (you can't vote without clicking like)

2. Click on “Songs and Voting” then click on “Live Songs and Voting”

3. Search for my name Rachael Byrnes

4. Then when you find it, select the song Truth is a Loaded Gun and click “I vote for this song”

5. After you’ve voted you’ll also be able to invite all your friends to vote for my song too...And if you’re in the mood for some serious supporting, you could post this link www.facebook.com/CatapultSongContest on your Facebook wall or any other social media site you’re a member of with the instructions above.

Thanks a million!
Rachael

An Interview with Byrneside Managament

2011-06-08T14:36:00.008+10:00

Byrneside Music Managment, a company that represents indie favourites like Radiostar and Hey Fever, have invited me to do a showcase gig with them next Thursday 16 June at the MOFO Lounge. Enjoying my music on Triple J unearthed, after it was reviewed by a senior producer, they booked me in to open a cool line up including: David Di Cristoforo, Minastoa Nice and Superjay Wars.

Curious about thier company, record label and showcase nights I was excited to interview the company's press manager, Aimee Elliot.

Rachael Byrnes (RB): Could you tell me a little bit about Byrneside and how it came about.

Aimee Elliot (AE): Byrneside Music began in Melbourne, Australia, at the beginning of 2008 as a management company. It was originally created by Sam Panetta of Melodic Music (Kisschasy, Angelas Dish, Stealing O’Neal) as a means to working with mature age artists.

RB: How did the name 'Byrneside' come about?

AE: Sam who started the company named it. It’s named after the town where he was born up in northern Victoria. When I say town there’s only two or three houses there along with a service station and an abandoned church. I’m not sure why he chose to go with that name for the company though. Maybe it’s all to do with starting with humble beginnings.

RB: Is Byrneside an indie record label as well?

AE: Byrneside is an all round music group, covering Management, Record Label, Development, Distribution, Press and Events.

RB: Could you tell me a little bit about the showcase nights you run. Are you looking for new emerging talent to represent and is this the main way you find new artists and bands?

AE: Byrneside run two showcases a month. We are always looking for emerging talent and these nights help up see how they perform live. We find most of these artists by browsing websites such as triplejunearthed, facebook and myspace, once we listen to their music and enjoy it we offer them the place in MOFO. We also use these nights to give artists that we are working with on their Development a chance to practice their performance.

RB: What's the biggest success story attached to Byrneside. I noticed you have some cool bands listed on your roster including Radiostar. I like that band, their film clips are great! Would you say these guys are your main name.

AE: At the moment Radio Star are definitely one of our biggest up and comers. They’ve had a lot of really positive feedback around the country and they just keep growing. We’ve also got a great band called Hey Fever who have been played on triple j and are getting a great response. In the early days when Byrneside first started we also worked with a couple of bands who had major labels like Small Mercies and Rushcutter but they didn’t really go anywhere and what we’re really excited about is the acts like Radio Star and Hey Fever that are on the verge of breaking right now.

RB: I noticed you also promote 'melodic management' and 'isotope records' are these sister companies?

AE: Melodic Music is Byrnesides mother company. Byrneside was started from melodic as a means to working with different artists. Isotope Records Branched from Byrneside so we were able to work with the artists that didn’t quite fit the mission of Byrneside

So head on down to the MOFO lounge for a chilled out night full of some of Melbourne's best musical talents playing some sweet semi-acoustic tunes! The next showcase is Thursday 16 June, Doors open 7.30pm, I'm on at 8.00pm $10 entry, upstairs at The MOFO lounge in Prahran (Behind Dangerfield on Greville st).

Thank you!

2011-03-03T14:04:00.002+11:00

Thank you to all the folks who have bought my CD at gigs and here online! It's been a joy to post parcels destined for Canada and the US! I hope you're enjoying the music. I've been busy over the last month doing a small business management course and seeking funding for the next phase of music making. Today I was approved for a small business operations grant which is very exciting! I'm also working on a rachaelbyrnes.com website! I'm building it myself because you know me I'm a bit of a scamp and believe less is more.. so don't expect world class animation but do expect something made from nothing and a bit of heart. Happy reading! :)

My EP is now available: an original origami fortune teller limited edition

2011-02-04T21:20:00.000+11:00

Hey folks,

My EP 'Oily Rag' is now available for sale in the real deal physical CD format. The CD packs are a very special hand made limited edition origami concept (see pictures below) and the outer cover can be used as a fortune teller. I had a lot of fun designing these packs! I hope you will enjoy reading about the songs and the futures they predict!

How to buy my CD (the real hard copy version)*:

Step 1: click one of the buy now buttons on the right menu bar of this blog. (Australian or International buyer) Prices include postage: $17 within Australia. $23 overseas shipping.

Step2: email me your postal address rachaelhopebyrnes@gmail.com

Your CD will arrive within 5 working days if you're in Australia or within 3 weeks if you're overseas.

Happy listening and happy fortune telling!!

xx Rachael

PS. you can listen to the tracks first if you like ... also on the right hand menu of this blog via the Soundcloud player.

PPS. If you'd prefer not to use pay pay email me (rachaelhopebyrnes@gmail.com) your postal address with the subject 'buy CD direct' and I'll send you the bank transfer details.

*digital download version coming soon

Gig at the Blue Tile Lounge

2011-01-22T19:09:00.007+11:00

Hello everyone!

I have a solo gig coming up Sunday week (30th of Jan) at the Blue Tile Lounge (95 Smith St Fitzroy). It's a kooky little place with a skater vibe and a massive fish tank, home to one crazy eyed fish. I'm going to dig out some over sized jeans and my old vans and sing some punk... nah.. just kidding. I'll stick to my usual folk/country/ vintage-inspired pop tunes and probably wear something dotty.

I'll be on at 8pm followed by James Moore then Paul McManus who are both very clever and talented musicians.

CDs will be available for sale for $15. The CD cover doubles as origami fortune teller. $5/min psychic phone lines eat your heart out! These fortune tellers are way better!!.... more about them coming soon..

I would love to see you there! xxx

Join my email list to hear about gigs

2011-01-11T13:40:00.005+11:00

Hey folks, I have just created this email form for a very simple way to join my email list. If you subscribe I will keep you up to date about future gigs and CD releases. Once you enter your email address you will be sent an email to 'verify.' Just open up that email click on the link and your done. You can unsubscribe at any time...

More blog posts below... scroll down to hear about Drawing the Song, Ringing the Bell and other gigs I've been up to recently! Enjoy.

Ringing the Bell: Open Studios at Dunmoochin

2010-11-30T19:15:00.001+11:00

The last two weeks of November were the city of Nillumbik's Open Studios event, where artists across the municipality opened their doors to the public. Dunmoochin opened its gallery and studio doors whilst I opened the doors to my balcony! With a big old bell stationed below visitors were instructed with signs to "ring the bell to hear a song." I emerged from the balcony, to sing to the curious faces below.

I wasn't expecting the bell to ring so often!! Maybe they'd heard about it in the article below. (Click here to read Leader Article )

It was amazing and visitors seemed to get a real kick out of ringing that bell and hearing me sing! I was so overjoyed so sell a bunch of CDs and marveled at how people engaged with the lyrics.

Fellow artists in residence, Nerina Laselles and Andrew Garton also opened their studios. Narina's asian inspired paintings were amazing and Andrews micro documentaries, light show and fusion caberet performance was also a big hit. Former Dunmoochinite and now board member Jeanette Dyke exhibited her fantastic gold and silver smithed jewelery in the long gallery along side Elizabeth Vercoe, with her beautiful nature inspired paintings.

I can't wait to the next round in April 2011.

The Joni Mitchell Defence: Mass Media Drop-outs and Inner World Podcasts

2010-11-30T17:13:00.000+11:00

Hello folks,

Come on over to my other blog "Less is More: Consuming Less Living More" for my latest posting
The Joni Mitchell Defence: Mass Media Drop-outs and Inner World Podcasts

...it's all about Joni Mitchell, media drop outs, bards, Druids, and podcasts. Enjoy!!!

2010-11-26T20:23:00.000+11:00

...and who are The Fortune Five? .. join my mailing list to find out in good time! They may be sailing for some time but sooner or later they will return.

Drawing the Song at Dunmoochin

2010-10-30T18:30:00.004+11:00

Above and below are some pictures from a gig I ran called "Drawing the Song," where artists and non-artists were invited to interpret my songs through a visual medium.

Initially I posed the idea to some friends and fellow artists in residence here at Dunmoochin, as an informal experiment and an excuse to catch up. Quickly, word spread about the Drawing the Song "Event" and I was delighted to perform to a room full people of all ages including Bloggers Janette and Kerrie from a local artist blog ISIIAD who arrived to Blog the Song!

Jason Hatcher, (Graphic Designer/ muso/ artist) and Joanna Chambers (Artist in Daily Life*) were there as the "driving force drawers." They helped facilitate the afternoon and make a collage out of everyone's drawings.

It was a fantastic day and an idea I would like to develop further in the future. Thank you to all the good folk who made it such a special day including fellow resident Nerina Laselles for taking photos xx

Artist Residency at Dunmoochin

2010-09-14T15:47:00.019+10:00

Back in September 2007 I published a blog post on housing cooperatives and other creative living solutions that could address Melbourne’s housing crisis.

Inspired by housing cooperatives like Moora Moora in Victoria and Stucco in the Sydney I dreamed of living somewhere similar: an intentional community where like minded people contribute to a common vision but also live their own individual lives.

I can’t believe it but I now live in one of those places! In April of this year I was awarded a year-long artist residency at the historic Dunmoochin Foundation, an artist colony established by the late Clifton Pugh.

The colony has several houses and studios were artists work on their particular art projects to be completed within the year of their stay. In my case that’s my debut record!

Living at Dunmoochin has been a really exciting time filled with much inspiration and reflection. So far I’ve recorded 6 songs, which I will release as an EP then I will work on several more to complete a full LP.

I’m always inspired here because the colony is amongst pristine natural bushland that has been permanently protected through Trust for Nature. I feel so lucky to be here with these majestic surrounds, sunset views and delightful neighbours (my fellow artists in residence). I just wish I could stay longer than a year! I certainly wont want to leave when April of next year comes around.

My most recent pieces of 'art' have been two songs “Something’s Better than Nothing” and “Far and Few Between.” The former explores the inner battle between an ‘all or nothing’ attitude and a ‘something’s better than nothing’ attitude. Far and Few Between is a little bit like a Zen Kaon: an attempt to create a riddle for the purpose of contemplation.

The magic of Dunmoochin and the inspiration it provides has found it’s way into both songs. (At least I like to think so!) Certainly nature is a reoccurring theme in many of my songs and in these two tunes I talk about nature that was saved, like the great Franklin river (Something’s Better than Nothing) and an ancient mythical wilderness that stretches beyond the our wildest imaginations (Far and Few Between).

You can listen or buy the songs below as a two-song bundle. I'm fundraising for the final duplication costs of my ep.

Rachael Byrnes EP: sneak peek release by Rachael Byrnes

My Mobile Music School: We come to you! Guitar Piano and Keyboard Lessons in Hurstbridge, Cottles Bridge, Diamond Creek, Northcote (and surrounds)

2010-04-24T16:11:00.001+10:00

Hey folks,

A lot has happened since my last post! I was accepted into an artist in residence program in Hurstbridge and so I’ve extending my mobile music school to that area as well. I’m currently still teaching in Northcote and surrounds on Monday, Wednesday and Fridays and now Hurstbridge Tuesdays and Thursdays.

I teach school age students and adults alike and I’ve still got spots free so please don’t hesitate to call me if you’re interested in getting lessons in the comfort of your own home! Phone: 0415 807 587. I’m experienced teaching primary aged kids too and really enjoy working with complete beginners!

My style is eclectic, fun and creative whilst also being grounded in tradition and theory. I tailor my approach to the individual and focus on building the strengths and meeting the challenges of each student.

More info in my flyer click here

Professor AJ Gold & Sons Medicinal Brew and Compound Presents: Rachael Byrnes

2009-06-01T11:01:00.003+10:00

Check Check Boom Bam Diddly Dam Gig Gig Slam

2009-05-28T20:23:00.001+10:00

My Next Gig at the Edinburgh Castle

2009-04-27T22:04:00.002+10:00

Hi folks,

Here's my latest gig flyer ... I hope you can make it :)

Checkered Shirts Live Music Appreciation Group

2009-04-21T13:46:00.003+10:00

Hi Folks,

I'm pleased to announce a new music appreciation group that I have formed: The Checkered Shirts and Urban Skirts Music Appreciation Club.

I've used a fantastic online meet up site to bring people together to attend the Checkered Shirts music nights I run at the Edinburgh Castle ... check it out

http://www.meetup.com/Checkered-shirts-live-music-appreciation-group/

The next gig is on the 6th of May. A couple of people came to the last gig from this online community and more are planned for the next one so it should be a lot of fun!!

Here's some info about the next gig:

The Checkered Shirts and Urban Skirts concept night is back again at the Edinburgh Castle showcasing another fabulous line up of local talent. .

Rachael Byrnes
www.myspace.com/rachaelbyrnes

Cathy Field
http://www.myspace.com/cathyfield

James Fitzpatrick
http://www.myspace.com/jamesjohnfitzpatrick

I look forward to seeing you there!

Teresa Dixon, Rachael Byrnes and Susy-Lou at the Edinburgh Castle tonight, April 1st 2009

2009-04-01T14:19:00.003+11:00

Hey folks,

I'm playing at 9:30pm tonight at the Ed Castle once again. Here's what my publicist has to say about this evening:

Checkered Shirts and Urban Skirts: a night of original music at the crossroads of urban folk, blues, country and roots. Checkered Shirts and Urban Skirts has become a regular night (first Wednesday of each month) at the Edinburgh Castle showcasing home grown artists whose music is a rich melting pot of urban folk, blues, country and roots. Wear your favourite checkered shirt or urban skirt and enjoy three amazing acoustic acts:

Teresa Dixon (8:30pm)
www.myspace.com/teresaanndixon
Teresa Dixon is a born natural, new to the scene, yet with talent like a seasoned pro. Teresa’s music is a blend of indie folk, old time blues and country. Her voice is rich, deep and full of character. She is a rare Gem not to be missed!
Rachael Byrnes (9:15pm)
www.myspace.com/rachaelbyrnes
Often described as “Joni-Mitchel-esque” Rachael Byrnes is an emerging singer/songwriter whose music is a blend of urban folk, country, blues, jazz and world. With a superb voice, catchy songs and clever lyrics, Rachael will have you tapping your feet, singing in tune and pondering the great mysteries of life!

Susy-Lou Trio (10pm)
www.myspace.com/louisegoh

www.myspace.com/yonotengo

Susy-Lou is a recent collaboration between Lousie Goh and Susy Blue, two seasoned singer/songwriters who are pooling their talent to create a truly unique upbeat sound. Their music is influenced by urban folk, roots and blues as well as Jazz and pop. They are certainly a band you can have a dance to!

Rachael Byrnes, Lady Byron & Kalimaa play at the Edinburgh Castle

2009-02-27T14:12:00.001+11:00

Checkered Shirts and Urban Skirts Music Nights Every Month at the Edinburgh Castle

2009-02-21T20:08:00.004+11:00

Hey folks,

I’m really excited to announce that as of April the Checkered Shirts and Urban Skirts music nights that I run will now be happening on the first Wednesday of the month indefinitely!!! March’s checkered shirts night will be on the 11th (second Wednesday).. but after that it’s the first Wednesday.

If you’re new to my blog let me fill you in about the Checkered Shirts nights.

Checkered Shirts and Urban Skirts is a night of original music at the crossroads of urban folk, blues, country and roots. The nights happen once a month the Edinburgh Castle (in Brunswick VIC… not the real one in Scotland!)

Each Checkered shirts gig you’ll hear me play a set of my tunes followed by 2 different artists each time. There have been 5 nights so far with at least another 5 to come!! People wear their favourite checkered shirt or urban skirts and enjoy an amazing melting pot of blues infused folk, country infused roots and roots infused blues.

I have been busy booking in my favourite artists to share the line up with. Check out some of these fantastic musos.

March 11th Line Up:

Rachael Byrnes (8:30pm)
www.myspace.com/rachaelbyrnes

Lady Byron (AKA Clayton Howard) (9:15pm)
www.myspace.com/ladybyron08

Kalimaa (10pm)
www.myspace.com/kalimaamusic

April 1st Line Up:

Rachael Byrnes (8:30pm)
www.myspace.com/rachaelbyrnes

Bea Fitzpatrick (9:15pm)

Suzy-Lou Trio (10pm
www.myspace.com/louisegoh
www.myspace.com/yonotengo

May 6th Line Up

Rachael Byrnes (8:30pm)
www.myspace.com/rachaelbyrnes

Cathy Fields (9:15 pm)
www.myspace.com/cathyfield

10pm James Fitzpatrick

My Next Gig at the Edinburgh Castle

2009-01-04T16:35:00.005+11:00

Checkered Shirts and Urban Skirts: A night of original music at the crossroads of urban folk, blues, country and roots.

The Checkered Shirts and Urban Skirts concept night is back again at the Edinburgh Castle with another fabulous line up of local talent. Wear your favourite checkered shirt or urban skirt and hear some of Melbourne's finest urban folk, blues, country and roots artists.

Rachael Byrnes (8:30 pm)www.myspace.com/rachaelbyrnes

Cat Canteri (9:15 pm)www.myspace.com/catcanteri

The Queen & Convict Duo (10 pm)www.myspace.com/thequeenconvict

Checkered Shirts and Urban Skirts: The Third Night!!

2008-11-26T17:11:00.010+11:00

Checkered Shirts and Urban Skirts:
A night of original music at the crossroads of urban folk, blues, country and roots.

The Checkered Shirts and Urban Skirts concept night is back again at the Edinburgh Castle with another fabulous line up of local talent.

Wear your favourite checkered shirt or urban skirt and hear some of Melbourne’s finest urban folk, blues country and roots artists including:

8:30pm

Rachael Byrnes http://www.myspace.com/rachaelbyrnes

Urban folk singer songwriter with country, blues, jazz and world music influences. People say she sounds like Joni Mitchell meets Kate Bush. Rachael will sing a collection of orgiginal songs some old some new one borrowed (cover) and one blues (less is more and the oily rag). And then there's the Bogan song... find out more about that at the gig

9:15pm Travis Marke http://www.myspace.com/travismarke

Travis is 1 part poet, 1 part raspy whistling songster, and 1 part jubilant storyteller of the everyday. Travis has played a steady stream of shows as a solo performer, including a career launch show with Bonjah and Triple J faves, Polaroid Fame, as well as the highly successful Pleased To Meet You Tour '08 alongside Jess Harlen (ex-Blue King Brown) and Simon Asquith.

10:30pm Alice Hutchinson & Band http://www.myspace.com/alicehutchison

Alice Hutchison is a Melbourne based singer/songwriter who has been engaging audiences around Melbourne with her dynamic live performances. Alice’s music is a unique blend of Folk and Indie Rock and she will be showcasing recently composed songs alongside her guitarist and keyboardist to present an evening of original song writing.

Gig at Bar 303 in Northcote

2008-11-26T16:58:00.007+11:00

Hi Everyone,

I have a gig this Friday 28th November at Bar 303 in Northcote. It's a whole night of fabulous singer songwriters. James Moore was the headlining act but can't play due to an injury. Instead he's going to MC the night. Here's what James had to say on his latest Facebook update:

"I will be the MC this Friday night to a host of local talent and gorgeous punters, first off the night will start at 8:30pm with Teresa Dixon and Timothy Cannon who are last minute additions and are both very talented and worth an eavesdropping! Then local lass Rachael Byrnes (10pm) will display her ridiculously fine voice and urban country tunes!Tim Woods has assumed the position of 'headline deamon and his folky funky frisky musical pieces are gonna have me screaming at the mixing desk.."

I hope to see you there!!

Checkered Shirts and Urban Skirts, a night of original music at the crossroads of blues, folk, country and roots

2008-10-28T21:05:00.005+11:00

Checkered Shirts and Urban Skirts is a concept night that I'm running and playing at dedicated to singer songwriters and original bands whose music is a blend of country, blues, folk and roots. The Checkered Shirt, represents the crossroads of musical styles and the urban skirt represents how all of these influences meet in an urban context.

The second Checkered Shirts Urban Skirts night is coming up on November 5th (see gig flyer left) and there are more to come!! Spread the word and help this night become a popular monthly gig! If you would like to play at this night please contact me: rachbyrnes@hotmail.com

Become a Checkered Shirt Urban Skirt Champion

I’m looking for people to become “word of mouth champions" for this cool event that will definately continue on a regular basis if word gets out.

To become a champ all you need to do is share the upcoming gig details for the November 5th night with 10 of your friends. Either people who might be interested in performing at upcoming checkered shirts nights or people who might like to come and hear some great local music.

Tell your friends, email your friends, facebook or myspace them.

Thanks heaps. You're a champ.

Next Gig at the Wesley Anne November 2nd

2008-10-25T22:48:00.001+11:00

Gig at Imbibe Thursday 16th October

2008-10-10T14:44:00.001+11:00

Rachael Byrnes Bio & Teaching Information PDF

2008-10-03T17:06:00.003+10:00

Hi everyone,

I have just updated my bio and teaching flyer PDF. You can view and print it here.

Gig - Friday the 1st of August at the Edinburgh Castle

2008-07-21T23:09:00.006+10:00

Hi Everyone,

I have a gig coming up soon on Friday the 1st of August at the Edinburgh Castle

I’m playing my original set as part of:

“Checkered Shirts and Urban Skirts -
a night celebrating the crossroads of country, blues, roots and folk music.”

I dreamed up this concept night so that I could have a very good excuse to wear on of my fancy shmancy checkered shirts from Texas.

I also wanted to play at a venue that had a real piano so I could get the awesome Pru Morton to play on a couple of new tunes I have recently written which include piano parts.

And then of course I love music that is a blend of country, blues, roots and folk , which is where I am broadly positioning myself as an artist. I also have Jazz influences so thought of adding something Jazz-ish to the title checkered shirts, urban skirts and Jazzy (???) …but I couldn’t think of anything that rhymes with skirts and shirts that has something to do with jazz. So there you have it .. any Jazz vibes will just have to be considered accidental.

The night starts at 9pm with the amazing Teresa Dixon, who has an incredible deep and gutsy blues voice.

I’m on at 10pm with special guests Justin Bernasconi on guitar and bass (multi talented and very good at inspiring me to write unconventional love songs) and then Pru will join me later in the set with some accidental Jazzy yet very honky tonk piano

The Stillsons are headlining at 11pm www.myspace.com/thestillsons

They are an amazing band and the front man, Justin Bernasconi has a very cool girlfriend (…yes me).

All of this is only $5. What a great deal.

So come on down and wear your favourite country shirt and have a dance, tap, jig, drink and enjoy some fantastic local music.

A Real Piano

2008-06-24T18:40:00.004+10:00

Holy smokes!! I have a real piano i my music space now!!! How exciting.

30th Birthday Gig Envelope

2008-06-04T08:10:00.002+10:00

Looking for 5 singers for prominent vocal parts in my original song set.

2008-05-17T14:42:00.003+10:00

Calling all singers/ vocalists who like songwriters with folk, country, celtic and blues music influences. I'm looking for 5 confident singers male & female to become a prominent part of my live sound. I'd like to create vocal harmonies, soundscapes and other awesome vocal scores for my songs... It's more like forefront vocals rather than back vocals!

Here's the concept...

Imagine me (you can listen to my stuff on www.myspace.com/rachaelbyrnes ) singing my songs, playing my guitar or keyboard....

with some of the singers from this group
www.myspace.com/anuna

or this one
www.myspace.com/mediaevalbaebes

and then imagine that sometimes it sounds a bit like this chap, Philip Glass
http://www.philipglass.com/

If you somehow mix that all together in your imagination then you'll kind of know what I'm trying to do.... interested? Confused but curious? Call me on 0415 807 587 or email me at rachbyrnes@hotmail.com

You will need to be a confident singer with great pitch and and excellent aural skills and ability to hold harmonies. If you've never sung live but think you have a bit of a natural knack for it then still call me!

Deserving Person to Enjoy Fame Fortune and Unlimited Income

2008-05-16T14:17:00.001+10:00

*
If you're a muso or artist like me you will probably never find your dream job advertised in the paper. It simply doesn't exist 'out there', you have to create it bit by bit. That's why I opened up my own small business as a music teacher. It's only part of the “Rachael Byrnes Income Matrix” that I'm currently working on, but it's a good foundation for other things to grow from and so far it's working out really well.

I now teach a bunch of wonderful aspiring singings and keyboard players and I have also just added guitar lessons to the mix. Here's what some of my students and their parents have said about the lessons recently:

“Silvia's not a visual learner, we're so glad we found someone with your eclectic approach.” Susan

“I hope I can sing as good as you one day.” Karen

“The lessons are really helping Brooke with her confidence” Danielle

“You're a really good teacher, my last teacher didn't tell me any of that stuff” Nicola

If you're interest in lessons please phone me on 0415 807 587. I'd love to hear from you!

*I'd like to thank Self Make Chick for sharing this mock job ad pic on her awesome business coaching site www.selfmadechick.com

Learn to Sing or Play Piano/ Keyboard at my New Studio

2008-03-27T14:21:00.001+11:00

Hi Everyone, I'm moving into a new house in Thornbury soon where I will be opening a teaching studio space on April 9th. I'll be teaching piano/ keyboard and voice. I've been teaching through Billy Hyde shops for over a year and have developed a fun and creative method which integrates traditional, contemporary and creative approaches to music. I also have a mobile music service where I can teach you in the comfort of your own home. Please email me on rachbyrnes@hotmail.com or phone 0415 807 587 if you'd like to find out more about my awesome lessons!! I'm $50/ per hour or $25/ half hour

The Wishing Well

2008-03-02T14:45:00.004+11:00

Over the past few months I have been performing in The Wishing Well, a fantastic Folk Rock band lead by Singer/ Songwriter Jai Larken. In this band I am the harmony vocalist, pianist and 2nd guitarist. My harmonies were recorded on their debut album, Life on the Boarder which you can list to here http://www.myspace.com/thewishingwellband check out our upcoming gigs.

Watch me on A Current Affair- Segment on Downshifting

2008-01-10T15:37:00.001+11:00

I'm on A Current Affair Tonight

2007-11-02T15:53:00.000+11:00

Hi folks, I'm going to appear on A Current Affair tonight, singing my song “Less is More and the Oily Rag” and discussing my musical life. You can listen to my music here or buy my pre-album release here. Watch our for it at 6:30 pm

Garden of Ideas

2007-10-24T13:10:00.000+10:00

I'm writing a new song at the moment called "Garden of Ideas."

I met you
In the garden of ideas
At first you weren't clear
Just a whisper in my ear

I followed your vague sense
Towards everything that doesn't make sense
Like finding hope in the lake of lament

My love my love
Please don't leave
My love don't leave me

My love my love
Don't fall asleep
Stay awake to every dream

You showed me
How to light a flame
When all the devils
Are walking in vane

You showed me
The path I should seek
Through the stepping stones of possibility

My love my love
Please don't leave
My love don't leave me
My love my love
Don't fall asleep
Stay awake to every dream

I long to greet you
Even though we've already known
A thousand of each others hearts
A thousand years alone

My love my love
Please don't leave
My love don't leave me
My love my love
Don't fall asleep
Stay awake to every dream

The Secret About the Secret

2007-10-24T12:57:00.000+10:00

Hi folks, I've just finished reading “The Path of Least Resistance” by Robert Fritz, an American composer. I highly recommend it to any aspiring musician. Its all about appling the creative approach to life by setting up super structures that serve us. It sounds obvious but his process is quite unique and has really made me change my approach. He also recently wrote an article “The Secret About the Secret” a thoughtful and challenging response to the movie and book “The Secret.” You can read it here
http://robertfritz.com/index.php?content=writingnr&newsnumber=90

Back in 2004 I wrote posted an article on my Less is More Blog challenging the idea of affirmations. I was pleased to find a successful artist like Fritz who also challenges the idea of affirmations. I'll be back to write more on this soon...

http://lessismoreblog.blogspot.com/2004/08/i-have-less-and-more-povo-affirmations.html

Ignore this unless you are a Checkered Shirts Urban Skirts Performer

2007-04-27T21:48:00.000+10:00

Checkered Shirts & Urban Skirts Music Night

Payment and other info for Performers

About the night

Checkered Shirts and Urban Skirts is a night of original music at the crossroads of urban folk, blues, country and roots. This concept night houses an ongoing monthly residency for me (Rachael Byrnes) whilst also showcasing a variety of emerging artists/bands whose music is a melting pot of the above styles. There are typically 3 acts/bands on per evening. There have been seven Checkered Shirts Urban Skirts nights since its inception. Artists/ bands with additional influences such as rock, reggae and Jazz are still encouraged to play as the main focus of the event is to promote and share music that blends a variety of styles, ie music at the crossroads.

Payment structure

There is payment from the venue as well as gold coin donations. It’s a free event so donations are not compulsory, but the audience is encouraged to give a donation. The night does not have a formally manned door, but rather a donations table near the door. I try to sit there most of the time when I’m not playing. Performers are also welcome to man the “door” or walk around with the bucket if they would like to make more money!! Performers are also welcome to display/sell their CDs here too.

The venue pays me $150 for the night. From this I pay the sound guy $70. I then take out $20 to cover the cost of printing posters. This leaves a remaining $60 which I split between 3 acts ($20 each) Each act gets the same amount regardless of how many people are in the band. As well as this we usually make between $50 and $120 in door donations. On a good night your band would get $20 plus $100/3 = $53. Of course there is always the potential of earning a lot more if more people attend…. And you can sell CDs

**The short of this is that your band will get between $20 and $70 for the night depending on how many people attend J

Sound, equipment and set up times

There is no sound check just a quick line check before each act. The reason for this is that the venue has a strict sound check restriction of 4-6pm. Since usually most people are unavailable at this time soundchecks have been cancelled and instead the sound guy does a quick line check just before you play. The sound guy goes down earlier in the day to set up the PA and tune the foldbacks. If you are playing second or third it is best to put instruments/equipment to the side of the stage and set up just before your slot rather than earlier in the night. As the stage is very small this is the best way. Drummers can set up earlier at 8pm if they prefer, but do need to check with me first about where to put their drum kit as room is needs around the piano and in the centre of the stage.

The night starts at 8:30pm and performers are encouraged to attend the whole evening to support the other bands but of course it’s not compulsory.

Fancy a trip to La La Land?

2007-03-30T13:45:00.000+10:00

I'm playing tonight with Kurt Roberts at the Bender Bar, 635 high st,(near Northcote, Thornbury border) at 9pm Supporting the Shirtless guitars. The above song can be played on request. I hear it's reached the croation top 40. Hope to see you there.

Earth Hour Join In!!

2007-03-27T15:51:00.001+10:00

Gig this Sunday

2007-03-16T14:20:00.000+11:00

Hi all,

I’m playing this Sunday 18th of March, 8pm at Barbuka, 279 Smith St, Collingwood. Come and chill out in the aftermath of St Patrick’s day and hear some of my own little ditties, some old some new, some happy some blue with Kurt Roberts on bass. The Shirtless Guitars will be following me and they rock!

Hope to see you there.

New Recordings & Myspace site

2006-12-28T15:25:00.000+11:00

Hi! I Hope you have all had a fantastic Christmas! I've just uploaded some recent recordings (see La La Land and Transdental Wonderland- lower right of this page). The latter tune is experimental and quite different to my typical folk based stuff. This tune marks the beginning of a new phase of music you will hear from me exploring keyboard and computer technology (the layering of many instrumental parts and vocals)

If you have trouble listening on this site try my myspace site

I hope you enjoy my new songs!

best wishes

Launch/Recital @ Manchester Lane

2006-09-27T17:02:00.000+10:00

Hi folks,

As the end of my music studies at NMIT draws near I’m launching my career and band at Manchester lane 7:30pm 10th of October (see back of post card below). This special gig will showcase a selection of my original tunes, backed by a full band and special guests including Kurt Roberts, Chris Doig, Julie Connolly, Michelle Moran, Cat Cantari & Alex Burkoy.

You can book a table for dinner (phone 9663 0630) or just turn up (booking is better if you want great seats!!) It’s going to be a fun filled night of folk & country fusion with a dash of Jazz. The amazing, Clayton Howard, with his heart wrenching tunes and souring voice will be playing after me with his band from 9 – 10. Hope to see your friendly faces there.

Help me find a super song from the super-unknown

2006-07-30T22:39:00.000+10:00

Hi folks! In October my band and I will be performing at a very special themed gig celebrating “super songs from the super unknown” Can you help me find a great unknown song from anywhere in the world that I can cover as part of my set? I will be playing mostly my own original (also largely unknown) songs but I’d like to include a few other songs that are not mainstream “popular” or widely known.

Maybe you know someone who writes fantastic songs but hasn’t been discovered yet or is trying to build their audience. Maybe you’re songwriter yourself and like the idea of having someone perform your song (and maybe sell a few of your CD’s at the gig!!) Either way I’d love to hear form you send me links, files, suggestions, etc You can email rachbyrnes@hotmail.com or you can leave a comment.

I’m sure many of you would agree that there are so many rising talents out there yet so much mass marketed “crap” on the radio/ TV. This gig is about celebrating all that amazing smusic that’s out there but doesn’t get heard. I hope you can help me!!

Gig tonight at The Old Bar!!

2006-07-19T15:32:00.000+10:00

Hey friends. I'm playing tonight at The Old Bar, Johnston St Fitzroy, with my new bass player, Kurt Roberts! He is awesome, and really adds a new depth to my music. I've also recruited a new drummer, so the official band will be announced soon. Hope to see you there tonight!!

The Devotional Singing of Sufism: An Essay on Qawwali & Sufiana-kalam as practiced in India and Pakistan

2006-06-17T15:04:00.000+10:00

Gig this Friday June 9 at Scarlet Jazz Bar

2006-06-05T16:54:00.000+10:00

I'm singing with the Jazz band TARDIS again this Friday at Scarlet Jazz Bar, Smith St Fitzroy. Starts 8pm. I will also be doing a couple of originals with the band included my lastest song La La Land, which got some people dancing at my last gig! Based on the comments I got I could describe it as an alternative/pirate/country/folk/gypsy song! If you come, you can listen and tell me what type of song you think it is!!!

NMIT Gig @ St Andrews Hotel

2006-05-28T00:04:00.000+10:00

I'm performing my new song "La La Land" (see recent posting below "new song new lyrics") at St Andrews Hotel on Wednesday night. This is part of a set I'm doing with my small group from NMIT where I study music. We are all performing each others original songs, so it should be heaps of fun! St Andrews is a fair way out of Melbourne but such a cool cosy venue with an open fire! Hope to see you there!! See www.standrewspub.com/ for the address and directions

Gig Tonight @ Scarlet

2006-05-19T15:50:00.000+10:00

Hi Folks, I'm singing at Scarlet Jazz Bar, Smith St Fitzroy, tonight with TARDIS. If you like all the old Jazz favourites then come along and have a boogie (or a swing .. or a samba!) Hope to see you there.

New Song New Lyrics

2006-05-06T14:50:00.000+10:00

I recently finished writing a song that my teachers and friends have described as having an eastern European feel mixed with country and gypsy!!. The words were inspired by something I read once about how cities in satellite images resemble cancer cells under the microscope. I can’t remember where I read this and I would love to get some more info or images for this post, so if you know anything about this I’d love to hear from you.

Here are the lyrics. For now I’m calling the song “La La Land” since the chorus is just sung with la sounds.

Through the satellites eye, high in the sky
Our cities look like cancers do through the microscopes eye
I hate to be the bearer of doom and gloom
But we’re burying our head in sand of land abused

Is our reverence and reason drowning in the rising seas
Is our conscience and remorse solidified in concrete?
Are we only half awake in an affluenzic dream?
While the ship is sinking will we sing merrily?

La La La etc….

Sugar, caffeine, wine pills
Hallucinate on all our cheap thrills
Fancy cars, diamond rings
A garbage dump of classy things
Meanwhile our veins, her veins, the rivers are thin
(and the top soil’s blowing)

Me myself, myself and I
Can’t stand to be anything but high
Bigger better faster whores
Chasing the dream of more and more
It’s all boom and bust
Like a plague of locusts

Is our reverence and reason drowning in the rising seas
While the ship is sinking will we sing merrily?

La La La etc….

(There might be some more words in the next section. I’m exploring a few ideas currently. Perhaps looking at human behaviour in relation to it’s bug/ insect qualities. Maybe

Parasites drill oil
For termites so soils
Our foundations we spoil

I also wanted to say something about pedophiles but maybe it’s too full on?

Pedophiles with guns
Rape the land and rape their sons

Meaning power hungry leaders are like pedophiles (even if their not actual pedophiles) in their behaviour: so short term and selfish in a way it “rapes” future generations and leaving behind a toxic legacy of a world in turmoil.

It’s all pretty “dark” I know but these things have got to be addressed. In regards to real sexual abuse I read that 1 in 4 girls will be sexually abused by age 18. 1 in 4 !!! See stats on http://www.rasac.org/education/statistics.html That in itself tells me the world needs real healing. People have gone nuts. The world is in turmoil. Lets take responsibility and do something.

Singing in the TARDIS (and in the shower as usual)

2006-05-05T17:05:00.000+10:00

Hi folks. I haven’t posted any news on here for a while as I’ve been busy studying and singing with a very inspiring Jazz band called TARDIS. My last gig with them was at a Corporate Golf Day - a slightly different vibe to the smoky pub scene gigs I’ve become accustomed too. TARDIS is mainly a corporate/ Functions band but you might catch us playing the occasional gig at SCARLET Jazz bar in Collingwood (next gig is May 19) or if we are lucky we might get a residency at a very cool venue to be announced. If you live in Melbourne and need a Jazz band for your wedding/ function/ special event etc.. shoot me an email we’d be delighted to give you a quote. (rachbyrnes@hotmail.com)

It’s been a great learning experiencing working with this band. The players are really talented, and I’m enjoying exploring the world of Jazz. Closer to my heart though is the good old folky stuff that I write and I’m still doing that too (although I can hear the Jazz influecing my work a little). I now have a band supporting me (bass and drums) and I’m working towards putting together a demo and EP. I’ve been performing some of these originals at school gigs but when I find the time (things are a bit hectic now) I’d love to work up some regular gigs with the band.

The band needs a name. I’d like to have my name in it ie, Rachael Byrnes and The …”somethings.” Originally I had thought this concept a bit heady but it makes sense for now since I’ll be doing the same songs both solo and with a band. If you have any ideas about what the band could be called I’ve love to hear your thoughts!!

Singing off for now.

Cheers

Advertising Jingle Mp3 as promised

2006-02-11T16:48:00.000+11:00

Hi Folks,

As you might remember, back in in November I promised to post an Mp3 of a a jingle that I created for a Shane Northey film called "AdBlock" a series of mock advertisements. Now you can listen to this funny little 50's style jingle by clicking here!!

Shane Northey, a recent graduate of RMIT Uni Screen degree has landed an awesome job working for a very successful Australian production company. Next week he is off to the Northern Territory to shoot a million dollar commercial! Go Shane! (Send some ad jingle work my way if you're reading this!)

See also the original post about the film screening:

http://rachaelbyrnes.blogspot.com/2005/11/film-screening-music-by-me.html

Gig at Barbuka, Smith St Fitzroy this Sat

2006-01-04T17:47:00.000+11:00

HELP MAKE T HIS HAPPEN!!

I’m playing solo at “Barbuka” this Saturday 7th of Jan supporting DOGAN, a fabulous Jazz/Funk outfit. The night starts at 7pm. I’ll be on around 8 pm. I might do a few duos with the superb Clayton Howard, fellow singer songwriter and music student. Clayton will be doing a solo set also after me and is well worth seeing too!

Barkbuka
279 Smith St, Collingwood

Hope to see you there!

Calling on bloggers and friends to help me define my musical style

2005-12-13T18:13:00.000+11:00

You might notice in my profile that I describe my music as “Urban Folk” .I don’t particularly love that title but I’ve yet to come up with something better. The general feedback I’ve had from friends and listeners is that it’s not an adequate category. When I ask them why or what they suggest instead I get answers including “the word urban is wanky”… “your music is more etherial that urban” …”Joni Mitchellesque”.. “it’s…um..curly music.” But still nothing concrete. Nothing I could use in a bio or promo flyer.

Can you help? I’m calling on all bloggers to have a listen to my music (see “listen to my songs” right) Your comments suggestions would be great! Thanks 

Farewell to Babel Gig

2005-12-01T00:17:00.000+11:00

I am playing a mini set at Babel on Brunswick St this Thursday, 9pm, 1st December as part of a special farewell to the venue. Sadly Babel is closing down, so a whole bunch of singer/ songwriters who have played there in the past will be playing a few tunes to say goodbye. It’s the last chance ever to see live music at Babel so don’t miss out!

Film Screening – music by me!

2005-11-24T04:00:00.000+11:00

Come along the RMIT final year student film screening to see a fabulous film by Shane Northey featuring my music! Recently Shane invited me to co-write, arrange and record a 50’s style advertising jingle for his masterpiece “Ad Block” - a series of mock advertisements. The film will be screening 1pm today @ RMIT film auditorium. Please text me if you need directions on 0415 807 587. I will have an mp3 available on this site soon so you can listen to this groovy little jingle here if you can’t make it to the screening.

Folk Rhythm & Life Festival

2005-11-20T15:40:00.000+11:00

Hello friends. A few people have posted comments asking if I’m going to the Folk, Rhythm & Life Festival. YES!! It’s going to be sooo much fun! I didn’t apply for a gig there because I didn’t know about the festival when applications were being accepted, however, I will be playing on their open stage. Here is a link to the festival website for more information. Link

Gig @ The Hard Rock Cafe

2005-11-18T12:24:00.000+11:00

On Melbourne Cup eve I played at the Hard Rock Cafe! This was an unplanned gig that I agreed to at the very last minute, which is why I didn’t have a notice up here about it. If your terribly disappointed that you missed out (ha ha ha) then don’t worry there will be more gigs coming up soon.

The Hard Rock Café was .. um interesting lets say... I did warn the venue that I’m hardly a “Hard Rocker.” But they didn’t seem to mind. Perhaps they too, looking up at the Guns ‘n’ Roses memorabilia, were reminded that even Axel Rose sung ballads.

Hard Rock pays its entertainers in the form of a $25 drink tab. Not a great deal is it? I wonder if their drink staff get paid in beers also. I’d love to hear what you opinion is on venues that don’t pay the entertainers?

Gig @ Carlton Crest Hotel

2005-10-17T10:26:00.000+10:00

I have a gig today at the Carlton Crest Hotel, Queens Pde, Melbourne, as part of the Melbourne IVF Day. I’ll be there from 1 -5pm playing in between lectures on IVF. Will be a great day for anyone interested or involved with IVF.

More lyrics are coming too! I haven’t had a chance to post them all yet. So far there are 2 songs available here.

Lyrics - The Urban Pantheist

2005-10-15T22:19:00.000+10:00

She, speaks to me, in whispers, in a falling leaf, in my sleep
Places I’ve never seen, in many dreams I’ve had, is she

Wish I had more time to watch her she’s a perfect mystery
We’re moving to fast to notice her sweet sensitivity

I want to shower my days
With pieces of her maze
Her radiant face
Her open space
Her rain

I want to roll in her fields
Her abundant yields
I want to see her
I want to heal her

Wish I had more time to watch her
She’s a perfect mystery
But we’re moving to fast
To notice her sweet sensitivity

Maybe she’s a he
Or maybe he’s a she
Or just a pantheists dream

Maybe she’s a he
Or maybe he’s a she
Or just a perfect mystery

Lyrics - The Siren’s Melting Pot

2005-10-15T11:11:00.000+10:00

© Rachael Byrnes

Thank you
For a sound that is new
A melting pot of old
Yet base metal turned to gold

Thank you
For this cathartic brew
I want to drink it all in
To reside where I begin

Your music is like
A Siren in white
Beckoning me to listen
Just one more time
To the sound of sublime

Somehow you make the darkness seem light
Illuminate the black, paint it white
Light the door that lies in between
The here and now and the yet to be

Your music is like
A Siren in white
Beckoning me to listen
Just one more time
To the sound of sublime

I feel I am bound
Bound to your unique sound
I am embraced with it
And it’s a perfect fit

If the sky had a tune
It would be “Drawing Down the Moon”
Your music is alchemic yet
Solid and ceramic

Lyrics - Leaving on Wednesday

2005-10-14T10:13:00.000+10:00

It’s late at night and the streets are bare
And I’m feeling like I’m hyper aware
Of this heavy mood
This vacant night
Well at least the end of this phase is in sight

Who can I call it’s 2am
Maybe Sean will be out if I call him again
Dial his number, he answers with cheer
The joy in his voice makes me feel clear

I’m leaving on Wednesday
So he comes over to hear me play
Drifts into a deep sleep
As I sing, I sing to him

Sha ra la la la da….

He wakes up and says to me
I don’t know how this came to be
It’s not fate but it’s lifted my mood
Now I’m feeling alive and I’m feeling renewed

He asks me innocently
Do you think we could be
I say probably not since I am leaving on Wednesday

And he says we have nothing in common
And I agree and we laugh and he we say goodbye

Sha ra la la la…

New Song - "Pyramid Self"

2005-06-05T00:33:00.000+10:00

Starlight star bright first star I see tonight
I wish I may, I wish I might, I wish my wish come true tonight
Find me perspective, find me clarity
Find me a will that’s higher than self deceit

Starlight star bright
First star I see tonight

Pyramid structured self improvement program
For $800 you can teach me who I am
But tell me this Mrs Break on through
Why do I see a clone in you?

Your eyes are wide
Their hypnotised
Your face smiles
For a hefty price
So starlight star bright
Help me to never fall for this hype

Layer upon layer of purchased pride
You say I don’t know coz I’ve never tried
But I’ve looked up to the stars a million times
And they don’t bill me for their insights

Starlight star bright
First star I see tonight
I wish I may
I wish I might
I wish I could save her from this Pyramid hype

Well I’m sorry if this offends you
Sometimes it’s hard to hear the truth
But at least with your pyramid program to offence you are immune

The Devotional Singing of Sufism: An Essay on Qawwali & Sufiana-kalam as practiced in India and Pakistan

2004-11-17T14:53:00.000+11:00

As part of my music studies at NMIT I recently wrote the essay below on Qawwali & Sufiana-kalam music as practiced in India and Pakistan. I’m publishing this essay online as a resourse to other students, who might be researching this area and find online resources in the area scarse, as I did. Any feedback or critcisms of this assay are most welcome. Email me your suggestions and I can incorporate them into the essay.

On October 27, 1989 an article appeared in the New York Times describing a manic performance where members of the audience were so moved by the music that, in a state of ecstasy and rapture, they ran down the aisles, hurled money at the musicians and bashed their heads against the stage until they were bloody and unconscious (Gold 2006). On further reading the article reveals that these musicians, with such immense power to inspire awe & euphoria in their audience were not the latest rock sensation from New York but a Muslim ensemble from Pakistan, who practised a form of devotional music called Qawwali. Qawwali is a type of devotional music of Sufism, the mystical branch of Islam, which originated in the tenth century in what is present-day Iran. (Real Word Records,1994).

Practitioners of Sufism, known as Sufis, engage in the pursuit of a direct perception of spiritual truth or God, through mystical practices based on divine love (Abbas 2002). Unlike other branches of Islam, Sufis believe in intuition and creativity and less in the fundamental and literal interpretation off the Holy Scriptures (Abbas 2002). This essay will focus on the musical practices of the Sufis in India and Pakistan, where music plays an integral role in the Sufi’s path to divine love and spiritual truth. It will explore the most popular types of devotional Sufi music in Pakistan and India known broadly as “Sama” the practice of singing Sufi poetry and sacred texts (Abbas 2002). In particular, this essay will discuss the notion that the most popular styles of Sama: Qawwali and Sufiana-kalam, are musical genres shaped by the context of the performance and spiritual & emotional needs of the audience.

A brief overview of Sufism and the evolution of Qawwali & Sufiana-kalam is required in order to understand the present day context of this musical style. The Mystica online dictionary of Mysticism states that “Sufism, teaches the personal and mystical worship and union with Allah or God ” (Hefner 2006, p.1). Sufism was formulated in opposition to the formal, legalistic Islamic theology of the ninth century AD and the opulence and excesses of the religious leaders of the time (Hefner 2006). Mystical poetry was important to early Sufi’s and remains so today. The eloquent words of revered poets such as Rumi, helped spread the message of Sufism throughout the middle-east and abroad (Qureshi 1986).

Sufi’s have recited and sung mystical poetry and sacred texts since the early days of Sufism, however, Qawwali & Sufiana-kalam traditions as we know them today evolved around the 13th century when Sufis migrated to the Indian subcontinent and used their traditional singing (Sama) as a tool to convert over 9 million people to Islam (Real Word Records,1994). This musical practice was embraced by classical & folk musicians converted to Islam and out of this melting pot the Qawwali & Sufiana-kalam musical styles were born (Abbas 2002).

For centuries the Sufi communities of the Indian subcontinent have sustained the Qawwali & Sufiana-kalam musical traditions, sometimes referred to as ‘Assemblies for Listening’ and they remain a central ritual of Sufism to this day (Qureshi 1986, p. 1). Both traditions are closely related and serve the same ultimate purpose to “arouse mystical emotion in an assembly of listeners with spiritual needs that are both diverse and changing” (Qureshi 1986, p. 59), or as another author describes it “to convey a mystic religious message by capturing the audience and heightening their consciousness in order to make them more receptive to the content of the message” (Real Word Records,1994). Typically Qawwali & Sufiana-kalam are performed at Sufi shrines, which venerate a particular Sufi saint (Abbas 2002).

The main difference between the two styles is that Qawwali has evolved to become a form of light Indian classical music whilst Sufiana-kalam is more closely related to folk music (Abbas 2002). Qawwali ensembles are led by a singer, backed by other singers (who clap along) a drummer (who plays dholak, or sometimes tabla) and occasionally a sitar player or other instrumentalists may be present (Qureshi 1986). Sufiana-kalam tends to be performed solo or if in a group it’s usually performed with more traditional stringed folk instruments such as the tambur. Furthermore, Qawwali is a strictly male-only tradition whilst women have found acceptance within the Sufiana-kalam traditions (Abbas 2002).

Despite these differences both traditions are characterised by a remarkably sensitive communication between performers and audience, which dictates the form, contour, speed and duration of any given song being performed (Abbas 2002). Although all Qawwali and Sufiana-kalam songs are unmistakably part of the same genre they are never performed in the same way twice (Abbas 2002).

Performers respond to verbal and non verbal cues from their audience which largely shapes or perhaps conducts the performance (Abbas 2002). For example, if a particular phrase seems to have a powerful effect on any listener, then “the performers will repeat it until its usefulness has been expended, and the ecstasy or pre-ecstatic state has reached full fruition” (Qureshi 1986, p. 121). Performers will also use the audience’s response to gauge the duration and shape of their improvisations and verbal manipulations. The range of expressive responses includes simple nodding, tapping, exclamations, twitches, weeping, shouting, dancing, rolling, loss of consciousness, monetary offerings and some claim even dying can be a response to the music (Abbas 2002).

Musicologist Regula Qureshi (1986) sites a wonderful example of this process at a performance at the Saint Nizamuddin Auliya Shrine in Delhi:

In the intimate atmosphere already charged with powerful emotion, one significant phrase of the song so moves an elderly Sufi that he cannot contain himself; he rises and begins a dance of ecstasy. For the performers this signals a moment of extreme responsibility, for unless the ecstatic person continues to hear the phrase that so moved him, he may die. The crucial phrase becomes the vital centre of the entire performance, and indeed of the mystical experience itself (Qureshi 1986, p. 4).

Unlike a western concert, which is typically linear, the concept of time in Qawwali & Sufiana-kalam performance is cyclical; there are passages when time is suspended and performers and their audiences are caught in timelessness. Sufi musicians believe that this timelessness can only be achieved through the ongoing communication between performer and listener (Abbas 2002).

In Qawwali the communication between performers and their audience reaches even deeper levels of sensitivity though the use of the spiritual leader of the shrine, known as the Sheikh, who facilitates or directs the performance by monitoring the devotees’ response in order to let the performers know where to take the music (i.e., slower, faster, a new song, a phrase to repeat etc..) In other words, the Sheikh serves as the “spiritual anchor for the feelings of everyone else” (Qureshi 1986).

So far it has been demonstrated how a Sufi audience can shape a Qawwali or Sufiana-Kalal performance, however, can a non-Sufi audience, a broader global market of listeners with differing nationalities and religious beliefs also shape a Qawwali or Sufiana-Kalal performance? Certainly, many examples of this phenomenon can be identified in the context of performances by the popular Qawwali singer, the late Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan, who found audiences not only at the Shrines of Pakistan, but through popular films and the world music market of the USA, UK, Europe and Australia (Umbrella Music1996)

During a world tour in 1991, Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan performed in a London auditorium, to an audience both Muslim and non-Muslim. The non-Muslims were largely expat Panjabi speaking Sikhs as well as the secular listeners with an interest in world music. Recognising that there were many Sikhs in the audience Nusrat choose to insert Panjabi lyrics into songs that would otherwise be sung in Urdu or Farsi languages. Using much linguistic repetition of the Panjabi inserts plus body language, humour, and eye contact the crowd became ecstatic and consequently showered the ensemble with pound sterling notes (Abbas 2002).

In an interview with Nusrat, in a documentary made by Umbrella Music, Nusrat reveals how he has adapted his music to meet the spiritual needs of his growing and changing global audience. When performing in the west Nusrat selects music with a fast beat and performs longer and more intense improvisations than when he performs in India and Pakistan. He also reports that generally he has simplified his music to create a broader scale appeal. Whilst traditional Qawwali can be sophisticated and complex, his version of Qawwali tends to be stripped back, and simplified. He believes that this is the key to his international success (Umbrella Music1996).

During the peak of his career Nusrat collaborated with many western artists including Peter Gabriel, Eddie Vedder (from Pearl Jam), Bjork and Jeff Buckley. Again this meant adapting the form, structure and accompaniment of his music to meet the tastes of the new western audiences. Some of this work featured on popular films such as Dead Man Walking, Natural Born Killers and the Last Temptation of Christ. These works were criticised by purists who claimed that the true essence of Qawwali was being lost and that collaborations were defiling a pure and sacred art (Umbrella Music1996). As Journalist Qasim Moini reports in Pakistan’s DAWN newspaper “Qawwali, today, is dying. It is being replaced by a highly commercialized, shabbily put together hybrid which mixes elements of real qawwali, eastern classical music, ghazal and pop“ (Moini 2004, p.12).

However, many, including the producers of these collaborative works argue that “you have to respect a tradition but also realise that a tradition got to where it is by changing, it didn’t come fully formed out of nowhere, so traditional musics are the product of evolution as well” (Umbrella Music1996). Perhaps it could be argued then, that Qawwali is not dying at all, but evolving to meet the changing needs of a diversifying global audience. It is difficult to research such an argument since much of the musicological literature on the subject focuses on the more traditional forms of Qawwali and Sufiana-Kalal and of this small body of research, most of it tends to be focused on Qawwali rather than Sufiana-Kalal. Furthermore, the existing research in the area employs a “snap shot” style of analysis that can not adequately capture the changing and evolving aspects of these musical styles and the cultures and contexts they are performed in. This opens a door to further researching into the evolution of Sufi devotional singing: is it a dying or changing art form?

Until then, it could be concluded that popular styles of Sama: Qawwali and Sufiana-kalam, are indeed musical genres shaped by the context of the performance and spiritual & emotional needs of the audience. A variety of examples have been used to demonstrate this from the temple example at the Saint Nizamuddin Auliya Shrine in Delhi, to Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan’s performance in a London. Furthermore, it has been proposed that perhaps Qawwali is evolving to meet the changing needs of a diversifying global audience and that a longditudinal study is required if this proposition is to be fully realised. It is exciting to contemplate the outcomes of future research in this area. Will more be revealed about emerging fusion styles between Qawwali, Sufiana-Kalal and western forms of music? Are women finding a more prominent place in these genres? Or will these Sufi devotional practices be swallowed by a tacky, shabby and spiritless comercial industry? Perhaps The New York Times of tomorrow may reveal!

References & Bibliography

Abbas, Shemeem B 2002, The Female Voice in Sufi Ritual, Devotional Practices of Pakistan and India, First edition, University of Texas Press, Austin Texas.

ABC Music 1994, Tripple J: A World Muisc Compilation, Compact Disk, EMI+ABC Music, Melbourne

Ahmed, Leila, Women and Gender in Islam, First Edition, Yale University Press, New Haven

Gold, Ari 2006, Qawwali Music: A Shamanistic Tradition? Ari Gold Films, viewed 15 May 2006, < http://www.arigoldfilms.com/qawwali.html>

Hefner, Alan 2006, The Mystica Online Dictionary of Mysticism -Sufism, Mystica, viewed 4 June 2006,<http://www.themystica.com/mystica/articles/s/sufism.html>

Interra Records, 1997, Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan & Party: Akhian, Compact Disk, MIL Multimedia, Bergen NJ

Khan, Hasrat 1996, The Mysticism of Sound and Music, Revised edition, Shambhala, Boston

Qasim Abdallah Moini 2006, The Death of Qawwali, DAWN Newspaper Online Edition, viewed 14 May 2006 <http://www.dawn.com/2004/archives/ndiekfrp12/index.htm>

Qureshi, Regula Burckhardt 1987, Sufi Music of India and Pakistan: Sound, Context and Meaning in Qawwali. Cambridge University Press, England

Real Word Records,1994 Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan & Party, The Last Prophet, Compact Disk Booklet, Real World Studios, England

Sony Music, 1995 Dead Man Walking, Music From and Inspired by the Motion Picture, Compact Disk, Sony, Los Angeles

Umbrella Music, 1996, Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan, DVD documentary, France