Next up in our Ten Things series: Addi & Jacq. While you might already know a little bit about this N.Y.C. harp and vocal duo from the other stories we’ve run on them recently, we figured it wouldn’t hurt to ask them a few more questions. They perform on Saturday, Nov. 7, at the Princeton Harp Festival.
1 How do you keep your music creative and fresh?
We find great inspiration from the work of other artists and their personal stories. We watch a lot of TED Talks and listen to podcasts. We’ve also learned the incredible value of taking breaks! When we hit a wall, we go for a walk.
2 Not limited to the harp, who is your artistic inspiration?
There are so many! Lately we’re into a UK-based trio called London Grammar.
3 What is your favorite city?
It’s tie between Portland and Cape Town!
4 What is your most proud accomplishment?
Making an album of all original music! (which was a dream come true for both of us)
5 How do you unwind?
A glass of red wine and the latest episode of House of Cards.
6 What is your favorite place to perform?
Any place that has really beautiful natural acoustics.
What’s the last movie you watched?
7 Bridesmaids! (One of the best movies ever.)
8 What is the craziest thing you’ve ever experienced during a performance?
Performing together in the intimate arena of The Fantasticks always had its surprising moments. The time the woman was doing a crossword puzzle (in the front row); the time a woman opened a can of tuna and ate it (in the front row); the time the woman was translating the entire performance in another language at full volume (in the front row) are just a few. (Just to give you an idea, the front row is basically on the stage).
9 What are your gig bag essentials?
The usual suspects: tuning key, strings, a variety of pedals and cables, gum and lipstick.
10 What’s the best advice you can give an aspiring harpist?
Create a log of how much and what you are practicing. Become aware of how you’re using your time. Small, short goals can be very effective. While it might sound cliché, don’t get caught up in the opinions of others! Do what you love and always give your best.
Find out more about the duo at www.addiandjacq.com.
