Artist of the Day | FRANCIS NICOLAS
ARTIST OF THE DAY
21.11.2021
FRANCIS NICOLAS
LOCATION
Montreal, QC, Canada
GENRE
Jazz, Indie Pop
CURRENT MEMBERS
Francis Nicolas
With the current pandemic, the state of the music and touring industry has dramatically changed. Where were you when everything was brought to a halt?
I was in Montreal. I have participated in different music groups. Shows were scheduled and the year seemed to have started well.
How has that affected your plans for the coming year? Did you have a tour planned, upcoming album release?
I wanted to record some songs in studio with musicians, but due to the pandemic I had to plan this in a different way. Like many musicians, we worked separately. It took more work to keep the same energy, but the end result was satisfying and we had a lot of fun doing it. Also, I composed and produced three singles despite this dark period in order to continue my artistic process.
What have you been doing to fill/make the most of your new-found free time at home? How are you supporting your mental health through all of this?
I worked on improving my technical skills on trumpet and piano. I already do it every day, but it has allowed me to do more. In addition, I was able to devote myself to composition. Besides playing jazz and pop music, I like to compose film music. This mandatory break allowed me not to think too much about the downsides of the pandemic and to stay positive despite everything.
As things are reopening & restrictions are lifting have you booked any new gigs? Tours? Etc? If your region is still under restriction, how are dealing with the Covid third wave?
Currently, things are gradually improving. I started practicing again with the Jazz Big Band of the University of Quebec in Montreal. And recently, I took part in a big concert in Ste-Therese, Quebec: Music4Cancer. It was amazing to see people again. What an atmosphere! Musicians and spectators, everyone was happy to be able to experience this again. Also, I am very happy to have met the famous Eric Alper: www.ThatEricAlper.com
It gives me a boost to reach more people with my music.
Favourite Starlite Room Moment?
I really like the questions you ask. Thank you for this opportunity to express ourselves. It's been great talking to you ! The pandemic is a period that has had a significant impact on the artistic world as well as other fields. Artists, musicians and composers, we love to interact with people and it's time to see everyone again.
Do you have a message for everyone at home reading this?
Thank you very much to everyone who follows me and plays my music! Stay safe and stay positive. The best is yet to come ! If you are looking for me, you will find Francis Nicolas on YouTube, Instagram, Facebook as well as on all digital platforms. I love you all!
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