Classically-trained harp player, singer and producer TATYANA has a lot going on. Born to Russian and English parents, she’s already lived in fancy and far-flung places like Holland, Russia, Singapore, and Boston – where she attended Berklee College of Music on a full scholarship, no less – before heading back to her hometown of London in 2017. Since then, she’s spent her time refining ethereal take on pop, culminating in new EP ‘Shadow On The Wall’. TATYANA tells us more.
Hi Tatyana! How’s it going, are you having a fun day?
Hi! Yes, today I’m on a lockdown upswing, so I’m feeling good. It helps that I’m by the beach.
What’ve you been up to during lockdown, do you have lots to be getting on with?
I’ve been writing new music like a maniac, editing videos and trying to teach myself Blendr.
Have you found any fun new activities to help pass the time?
I’m not much a cyclist, but I’ve been biking a lot. Also, I went paddleboarding for the first time!
What first sparked your interest in music?
ABBA.
It looks like you’ve got a pretty extensive CV, you’ve done so much! What’ve been your highlights?
Getting a full ride to Berklee, playing on Neneh Cherry’s tour and opening for her in Eastern Europe.
Is releasing your own songs something you’ve always wanted to do?
Ever since I made my first album in GarageBand when I was 11. It was called ‘Rose-Tinted’, and I took it very seriously!
What’s your writing process like, and is it influenced by your classical training?
I like to use my voice to start off, which is why there are so many vocals in my songs. Classical music gave me an implicit understanding of arrangement, texture and form.
What were the handiest lessons you took away from your time in formal music education?
I got really into ear training at Berklee. Use your ears!!
Can you tell us about your new EP, how did it come together?
The EP is special to me because it came about very quickly and really captures a transient, confusing, conflicting moment I was living in.
Where do you like to look for inspiration?
In the people I love and in nature
Who do you think is the most exciting band or musician around right now?
Hard to pick just one! Erika de Casier is v. cool; I loved her record. I think the 100 gecs’ Minecraft festival that happened early in quarantine was insane and felt totally fresh.
What’ve you got coming up over the summer?
More singles and videos and hopefully more paddleboarding!
TATYANA’s debut EP ‘Shadow On The Wall’ is out now.
