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We interview sensational busker Lydia Gerrard – you may have seen Lydia perform at London’s Waterloo Station
We were so impressed with Lydia Gerrard after seeing her busk at Waterloo Station that we couldn’t wait to ask her a few questions!
When did you first start performing. Was it at a young age?
I started ‘performing’ when I was in nursery – I was always forcing my parents to watch my made-up shows in the front room and this progressed to taking part in every school play or choir I possibly could. When I was 8 I joined the church choir (mostly because there was an annual trip to Thorpe park!) where I fell in love with hymnal and classical music. A career in the West End has always been my dream, I don’t think I’ve ever considered anything else. Which is scary because nothing is guaranteed in life but the way I see it is that life is so temporary and unexpected it would be a waste to strive for anything other than your dream.
What memories do you have of your first busking session? Was it in London?
My first ever busk was in Victoria station, my amp was brand new… and it was faulty. I started to sing Nessun Dorma and the amp died five words in! I had to pack it all up and go home – I was gutted! But my first successful busk was in Waterloo station and the support I received from the public and station staff was so overwhelming; all I could think about for a solid week was ‘wow, people are so NICE!’
How nervous do you get when you start singing in front of strangers?
The first time I was a little nervous just because I didn’t know what to expect; I was worried people would tell me to shut up so that they could have peace and quiet after a long day at work and to be honest, I would have completely understood that. But as soon as I realised that the reception I received was wonderful reception, my nerves completely disappeared. Now when I busk, I don’t feel any nerves (which is weird for me because I can always find something to worry about) and I feel as comfortable singing in front of hundreds of strangers as I do having a chat with my mum!
What is the strangest thing that has happened to you when busking?
I was busking in King’s Cross and a lady came over to me and placed a napkin on my head and later returned to steal a tenner from my basket! Luckily my parents were there to help (their job description includes roadies, security, and management). They come to every busk because they love hearing me sing and they are my biggest supporters. And obviously, for safety reasons but for the most part, I’ve been very lucky with the people I’ve encountered!
Do you have any advice for someone that wants to busk?
Just do it. It is the most fun, flexible and rewarding job I could ask for at this stage of my life. It has given me the biggest confidence boost and I have met some very amazing people through it. Have a look online for busking schemes – there are official rules and regulations that most people don’t realise exist. You’ll need a license and public liability insurance (I’m with the musician’s union). Other than that, you just need an instrument or your voice!
What is your favorite musical and who do you admire most in musical theatre?
My favourite musical, without a doubt, would be Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Phantom of the Opera. When I saw it for the first time I sobbed the whole way through, and the same thing happened when I saw it for the fourth time! Every piece of music in that show is genius to me and my one dream role would be Christine. For this reason, Sierra Boggess is my idol in musical theatre because her portrayal of Christine is, for me, perfection.
I listened to Lydia yesterday at Waterloo Station. She is truly fantastic. I did see her first a few weeks ago and stood there mesmerized listening to her voice. I was annoyed with myself I was broke with no money in my pocket. I wanted to give her some. I thought that was the last I would see of her. But yesterday as I was coming out of the underground up to the main Waterloo Station I can hear her voice and stood there listening to her. This time I had money in my pocket and contributed for her drama school. Thank you Lydia
Thank you for writing this. She is really an amazing talent. David
Hi Angelo,
What a beautiful comment. Thank you for your kind words and generosity, I can’t tell you how much I appreciate it. If you see me again please do come and say hello!
Have a wonderful evening,
Lydia
We are looking forward to coming to London this summer, returning to Waterloo just so we can listen to your beautiful voice. David and Aleen from Charlotte, NC
Brilliant -Enjoy!
Thank you both so much! I’ll post on my Facebook page when my busking schedule will be so if you’re about then please come and say hi! All the best,
Lydia
Went to get my train to Exeter yesterday heard this lovely voice
had to walk back to listen nearly missed my train good luck
for the future Gordon
Thanks. I’ve not heard her for a while but she is fantastic
Thank you Gordon!! So pleased you enjoyed my singing 🙂 have a fab weekend x
Is this at Waterloo?