THIS week’s Tracks of my Life is with Amanda Ham-The Singing Angel.
TRACK 1: Super Trouper – ABBA
Yes, I am an unashamed ABBA fan. Their music never fails to cheer me up. When I was very young, this is the song I always used to bounce around to. I’d climb up onto a dining chair, kneel up, holding the back and bop! I believe there may even be home video footage of this…!
This song takes me back to my childhood and always makes me happy!
TRACK 2: The Sound of Silence – Simon & Garfunkel
I had a very supportive music teacher at school and this was one of her favourite songs and therefore, became one of mine. We often sang it in the choir and I love the haunting melody. Sadly, she’s no longer with us, so whenever I hear it, I think of her and all the encouragement and support she gave.
TRACK 3: Mr Snow – from Carousel by Rodgers & Hammerstein
This was my audition song that won me a place at The Guildford School of Acting, so it holds a special place in my heart. It’s always a joy to sing and tells the story of Carrie, whose boyfriend has a slight flaw. He’s a fisherman & smells of fish. A problem at first – but eventually she optimistically admits that ‘fish, is my favourite perfume!’ It’s a lesson that love can overcome any problem!
TRACK 4: The Rose Adagio – The Sleeping Beauty – Tchaikovsky
I love going to the theatre and there’s nothing more thrilling than hearing a live orchestra strike up. Going to a Ballet is a real treat and I love the relationship of expressing music through dance.
This piece was on a ‘Ballet Tape’ (yes, tape – I’m that old!) I played it over and over and nearly wore it out. It makes the hairs on my arm stand up & resonates right in my heart. I adore it!
TRACK 5: Night and Day – Cole Porter
This song is included in the Musical ‘Gay Divorce’ which later became the Fred & Ginger film ‘The Gay Divorcee’ It was the first professional musical I appeared in and we were lucky enough to work in conjunction with the BBC Concert Orchestra, such a thrill, a memory that will stay with me forever. I love how the verse builds, stepwise, into the glorious, sultry, sexy melody.
The song has been covered by so many great singers, Frank, Ella and I love singing it too.
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