We were lucky to catch up with Elle Townley recently and have shared our conversation below.
Elle, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Learning the craft is often a unique journey from every creative – we’d love to hear about your journey and if knowing what you know now, you would have done anything differently to speed up the learning process.
I’m only 14, so I’m still learning what I do, and I don’t know that I could have sped up the process very much. I’ve been singing since I could talk, but I started vocal lessons when I was 6 and began performing publicly at 8. At age 9 I was inspired by a group of musicians during a trip to Nashville, and when I returned home to Texas, I began songwriting and learning guitar. Because I started so young, I didn’t have a strong commitment to developing my musical skills, so that has definitely improved as I’ve gotten older. I think learning vocal technique to improve and protect my voice has been one of the most essential skills for me. Of course, it’s also been important to improve my songwriting, and my ability to accompany myself on guitar and piano. Beyond my youth and inexperience, my biggest obstacle has probably been time management as I juggle my music and the rigorous classical education curriculum at my charter school. I’m starting my first year of high school this fall, so that it likely to continue to be one of my toughest challenges.
Elle, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?
I’m a 14-year-old singer and songwriter from Georgetown, Texas. I have always loved music, and I perform as often as I can here in my area. I am so humbled by the people who tell me that my songs touch them and bring them joy. So far, I am probably most proud of the songs I’ve written, including my first three released singles. I was also recently honored with a nomination for 2022 Young Artist of the Year by the Texas Country Music Association. I’m so excited to attend my first award show in November, and to meet a lot of other great Texas artists. And I have to admit, it would be really cool to win!
What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?
The most rewarding aspect of being an artist is connecting with people through music, especially when it’s a song I wrote. I have met so many great people, and a lot of them have begun following my journey on social media.
What do you think is the goal or mission that drives your creative journey?
My goal is to keep developing my musicianship, songwriting, and performance skills as I pursue a career in music. I don’t know what that will look like, but my dream is to have at least one show where the audience sings my songs with me!
Contact Info:
- Website: www.elletownley.com
- Instagram: elletownleymusic
- Facebook: Elle Townley Music
- Twitter: elletownleymusic
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1XHQ5N2QUTIrfiS87D_35A
Image Credits
Greg Testerman