Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Andrew Lilley. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Andrew, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. What’s been the most meaningful project you’ve worked on?
I recently recorded a solo piano album called ‘Silhouette’ It is a solo piano project comprising new compositions and pure improvisations including duets with myself. A really interesting project that is a good reflection of my artistic identity.
Andrew, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?
I am a jazz pianist and performer. I grew up in a home of musicians and was trained as a classical musician from a young age. I was drawn to jazz through soul music which led me to the jazz music of the 50″s and 60″s. I performed and recorded a lot as a pianist, both as a solo artist but also for other groups and especially singers. I believe I have developed a clear sense of musical identity in the jazz stream which is informed by my roots as an artist born in Africa and surrounded by its music, but also through influences of the greats, including Coltrane, Monk, Bud Powell and so many more.
Is there a particular goal or mission driving your creative journey?
At the end of it all, you need to be inspired by what you do and to keep the pen on the page always. Creativity lies within and comes out often at unpredictable moments. This is the drive of the creative mind but also sometimes a curse. While obviously you need to derive an income, I think you need to always stay true to your inner voice.
What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?
Producing something you are proud of. As creative beings we are so self critical but there comes a time on self reflection when you are able to recognise value in your own work and that brings joy and fulfilment. Without that I see no real point.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.andrewlilleymusic.com
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/andrew.lilley.509/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCrt_Tzir0JMHh-JkhOh0y3g
- Other: https://andrewlilley.hearnow.com/silhouette
Image Credits
Images by artist and photographer, Mia Thom