Power of Music with Jennifer Cockcroft
How much does music play a part in your life?
I'd say it's an integral part - perhaps to the point where I don't really consciously notice how much, it's just there! Certainly when I was younger it was something I was hugely active in - I was always part of ensembles, orchestras and choirs at both primary and secondary school, there was always music on in the car on long journeys, and I amassed an extensive CD collection (oh the days before Spotify!). The time I really became aware of just how important music was to me was when it wasn't there. I went through a period of depression a number of years ago, brought on by a perfect storm of life situations and job stress, and one of the wake up calls that made me seek help was realising that my world had gone quiet. I didn't listen to the radio in the car anymore, I didn't play my instruments or have music on at home, I didn't even really get songs stuck in my head, there was too much other mental and emotional noise going on. But one of the things I'll be forever grateful for is my incredible counsellor suggesting that I joined a local choir. That was 10 years ago and I've never looked back! It's the most wonderful feeling to experience the collective joy of a group of people singing together, and as well as our weekly rehearsals, I've had the opportunity to perform at some fantastic venues like the NEC in Birmingham, the O2 arena, and to record with a full symphony orchestra and at Abbey Road Studios, as well as dozens of smaller but no less brilliant local events - and in all weathers! I'm the kind of person who no longer really follows any particular artists or bands, but will listen to a variety of music and often find something that appeals to or moves me. It might be lyrics or a melody, rhythm or the overall emotion, and I think people would probably be a bit surprised at my eclectic tastes.
Have you ever learned a musical instrument/were you in any musical ensembles at school?
Yes, absolutely! It all began - as so many musical journeys do - with learning the recorder at primary school, then having flute lessons which eventually resulted in passing my grade 8 exams at the age of 17. Throughout secondary school I was in pretty much every ensemble going, from the chamber and main choirs, to the wind band and orchestra, and even led a flute choir for a while. At university I joined the wind band which was great fun, and also took piano lessons after inheriting my grandmother's instrument - I'll confess to having only rare opportunities to play now, but it's fun to bash out the odd Christmas carol come December!
What music did you listen to as a teenager? Have your tastes changed much since then?
I came of age to the Spice Girls (if pushed I could probably still remember the dance routine to Spice Up Your Life!), and all those other great late 1990s pop groups, but also listened to a lot of music from the 60s, 70s and 80s thanks to my dad's record collection, mostly with a rock persuasion - but I think my first record was actually Locomotion by Kylie Minogue. My university years were punctuated by dance music plus the 'classics' they always break out at the end of any good night at the Student's Union (any student who can't sing every word of Bohemian Rhapsody is lying!), but now my tastes are broader, including regular forays into Magic FM, Classic FM, and Radio 2 (I do worryingly well on Pop Master sometimes!)
What do you think “being musical” means?
To me it mostly means being able to appreciate music, taking an interest and perhaps being able to express preferences. I also think, taking the definition further, it includes having an ear for rhythm, melody and harmony, even if not necessarily developing the skills to sing or play an instrument. Anyone who can sing in the shower, tap out a beat with their feet, or recognise the intro to their favourite song is musical in my book, just as much as someone who can play multiple instruments to virtuoso standard.
Do you think you’re musical?
Yes. Definitely!
What is THE piece of music that makes you feel everything? When did you first encounter it? When do you listen to it now?
Oh goodness. This is far too hard. Can I have a different question please?! Seriously though, there's no way I could possibly choose just one piece of music, there are so many that form the soundtrack of my life, punctuating particular moments or memories. Labi Siffre's 'Something Inside So Strong' was the first solo I attempted with my choir ten years ago, and still makes me tear up. 'I Believe in a Thing Called Love' was played on every night out during my second year at uni. 'Part of Your World' from The Little Mermaid is my favourite Disney song. 'Fingal's Cave', Mendelssohn's Hebridean Overture played on the radio always has me listening right to the end. There's a Mozart flute concerto that still makes me shudder at the memory of perfecting it for an exam. And there are endless film soundtracks, TV theme tunes, individual songs and snippets I could mention - one day I'll get them all on a playlist!
What music do you hope to pass onto future generations/ leave as part of your legacy?
Just an interest and a passion for listening and appreciating lots of different kinds of music. A love of interacting with music, perhaps learning instruments, an appreciation of the skill and talent of musicians, and an understanding of how emotionally impactful music can be.
Clear your brain. What’s the first lyric from a song that comes to mind: GO!:
Look out 'cause here I come, I'm marching on to the beat I drum. I'm not scared to be seen, I make no apology, This is Me!
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Name: Jennifer Cockcroft
Email: hello@jennifercockcroft.com
Website: http://www.jennifercockcroft.com
Instagram: @jennifercockcroft