I first met Nicky Schrire at college (SACM) when she began doing saxophone as her major, and later switched to voice. I remember hearing her play the clarinet and piano once or twice as well, both so beautifully. This multi-talented lady has clearly worked really hard at honing her craft. As she pointed out on All Jazz Radio in an interview with Eric Alan a few weeks ago, Nicky has managed to be balanced in that she knows enough about other instruments, harmonies, arrangement and composition to create the music that she desires. To be able to 'say' what she wants. This she does so elegantly as can be heard on her debut album 'Freedom Flight'.
If you haven't heard it yet, then start by reading some of the rave reviews she has had. (http://www.allaboutjazz.com; Nicky Schrire Press)
Then do yourself a favour and check out her website, http://www.nickyschrire.com/, buy her album and listen to it as many times as you can! Listen to it while you are cooking, entertaining, driving your car, because the more you listen to it, the better it gets. You will notice something different each time you hear it. Nicky's attention to detail is evident and realising this has increased my love for her music.
More recently Nicky has released a lighthearted single "Feel Good Song". You can see her music video on Youtube!
Every time Nicky visits South Africa she gives of herself and knowledge by giving workshops and master-classes at various schools. Last year Nicky gave some inspiring workshops at the Grahamstown Festival. She also usually performs gigs so that we can have the good fortune of hearing her sing live. Nicky always has star musicians backing her up at these performances, so every single gig is a treat in itself. Watch our for when she is in Cape Town again, or if you are lucky enough to be in New York in early April, make sure you don't miss out!
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