MELBOURNE GUITAR SHOW Q&A – Kathleen Halloran
What do you think makes the Melbourne Guitar Show such a special event for musicians and fans?
Every year it’s such a rare opportunity for all of us guitar lovers and nerds to hang out! I always look forward to catching up with friends and colleagues that you rarely see out on the field of gigging! It’s a pretty incredible feeling when you look around the room and spot guitar idols in every corner! You can’t help but leave feeling inspired and uplifted by the wonderful beast that is the guitar!
What does it mean to you to be performing alongside so many talented Australian guitarists?
It’s a deep honour! I’ve had the chance to perform at a couple of MGS’s now – and it never lessens in significance and weight. I always feel myself getting nervous and reflective in the lead up. There’s something about being surrounded by those who have dedicated themselves to our instrument … There’s no hiding!!! That brings out the best in me.
Do you prefer writing music on acoustic or electric guitar, and why?
I couldn’t say either way – riffs and creating vibes come easier for me on electric, but I’ve also written some of my most natural songs on the acoustic in the ones purest form.
How has your playing style evolved over the years?
It can’t help but be constantly inspired and influenced by my peers, heroes and the world around me. I think my sound and identity as a guitarist evolves by the week! In recent years, Madison Cunningham and St Vincent have been huge game changers for me on the guitar, in completely different ways!
Are there any non-guitarists who have influenced your playing or songwriting?
Megan Washington, Rufus Wainwright, Andrew Bird
What’s your favorite guitar riff of all time?
OMG, that’s too hard!! Maybe Get The Funk Out, or Money For nothing.
Was there a specific moment or artist that made you want to pursue music seriously?
There have been so many over the years. My first was actually playing in the pits for a community theatre production of Les Mis at 16. Even though I was playing the bass, I was so moved by the experience of playing in an ensemble and felt more emotions than I knew what to do with. As I started to refine the kind of instrumentalist I wanted to be, experiences only got deeper and more prescient.
How do you overcome creative blocks when writing music?
I just try to keep going until the block is gone!!! I also remove all the obvious distractions out of the way… turning phone off, cancelling upcoming plans etc.
Is there a particular guitar tone you’re always chasing?
Yes … my own! 🙂
How do you balance technical ability with emotional expression in your playing?
When I get on stage – emotional expression just seems to take over… when I’m at home in the practice room and under the microscope it’s all about monitoring technical ability. The technician practice is a tool to set me up to be able to completely lose myself and fall into the music on stage.
What’s next for Kathleen Halloran, new music, tours etc?
I’ll have my next single “Find Me Again” out in March and a run of some great festival and band shows. I’ve got the blinkers on at the moment and all about getting out there in front of new audiences as much as possible!
