Marianne Garrah | Special to the 51暗网
Q: When did you start creating?
A: I was lucky to grow up in a creative home, and there were a lot of musical instruments around, so as long as I can remember, I was playing instruments and taking lessons.
Q: Mentors? And what was the best piece of advice you were given?
A: I have been influenced by many teachers and musicians over the years. Some are people I鈥檝e studied with, others are musicians I play with and some are just people who inspire me that I could only hope to meet.
The best advice was to engage your bandmates and allow each player space.
Q: Has your practice changed over the years?
A: Yes, very much. I grew up taking piano lessons and playing in the high school bands. In university, I was a classically trained low brass player focusing on Tuba and Bass Trombone. After I moved to Jasper, I transitioned to electric and upright bass and have played the bass in many bands. When I am creating at home, I enjoy guitar and piano as well as my drum set.
Q: Jasper has a lot of creative people, how do you showcase your work?
A: I have had the opportunity to play with some great people here in Jasper. Many live shows throughout the years with Ray Elliott, The Bags, Linkomatics, The Randal Scott Band and currently Well Spaced Trees and The Mastrianni Project
Q: Where would you like to see your art take you?
A: I still dream fantastic dreams, but the reality is my art will likely stay local. I enjoy playing shows in town and at local festivals. I really think some of the work I鈥檝e done with other artists in the past is fantastic, and that鈥檚 very satisfying. I will keep practicing and helping people create music, and I am content with that. I also have two very talented children, and I love seeing them create. They have already become artists beyond my imagination.
Q: What is most rewarding about your work?
A: There is a great satisfaction to playing live. It is such a spontaneous event. I also enjoy playing at home and practicing, trying new things. Lately, I have been listening to and playing with my kids, and that is very rewarding.
Q: What do you dislike about your work?
A: There is not much to dislike. I do think people need to be open minded to music and all art forms. Art is necessary and this creative process is essential for expanding our intelligence.
Q: What is your dream project?
A: Having an incredibly solid band and the abilities to support myself playing music.
Q: How does living in a smaller town like Jasper affect your art?
A: When you see where other artists have come from, they often have less exposure to art than here in Jasper. We have had some great artists come from here or spend time, so I don鈥檛 think where you are living dictates your success.
Q: What wouldn't you do without?
A: A jam pad filled with all sorts of instruments.
Q: Best piece of advice you would give to someone starting out.
A: Have an open mind and a thick skin. Be patient and dedicate your time. It takes a lot of time. Listen to the people who support you. Play live music as much as possible.
