Hello, Goodbye

It's New Year's Eve. In some parts of the world it's already New Year's Day. And where am I? Relaxing at home with the family? Off out at a house party or getting cold and wet at a city centre New Year celebration? Nope. I'm working. And found out that I would be working less than a week before Christmas. This pretty much sums up 2012. It's been like that.

Last year, as the last whisps of 2011 melted away and 2012 arrived, I remember feeling quite melancholy. It was a feeling that clung to me for weeks. And not without good reason. When I look back now, as I'm about to close the door on 2012 forever, I can see it's been a year dogged with ongoing issues, few resolutions and lots of goals left unachieved.

The first half of the year, Granny was very poorly. We were all very concerned for her and to that I added the weight of concern for my Dad and cousins. Steve and I made two very long trips to Canterbury to visit as her health deteriorated and finally my last surviving grandparent passed away.

The second half of the year has been plagued with work issues, as my previous employer's contract came to an end and a new (incompetent) contractor came in to take over. There has been much anxiety in the build up to the transfer, which has manifested in people generally being unkind to each other. I've had to say goodbye to some great colleagues (and one very good friend who is bringing in the New Year in Australia). The final culmination of this has been mass redundancies and some really inappropriate and unfair actions by the new employer. This has been the single most stressful thing I have been through with any employer and I hope I never have to repeat anything similar in the future.

Our house is still on the market. It still hasn't sold. It's still causing a disproportionate amount of stress with dickish estate agents and a kitchen roof that continues to leak. We've missed out on a number of opportunities, the worst of which was a house with a turret. Even with the front of the house sinking, it was a bargain and it would have been a beautiful home. I fear I might always regret that as 'the one that got away'.

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However, 2012 has a few things worth remembering it for. I have waited for most of my life to see The Phantom of the Opera and I was not disappointed when Mum and I went to see it in May. It was spectacular and if I had been able to afford to see it again, I would have. I also saw Starlight Express this year. I've wanted to see it since I was about twelve so it's been a long wait.

May was a great month this year; as well as Phantom of the Opera at the Palace Theatre, Mum and I had a trip down to the Big Smoke so I could sing at the Royal Albert Hall with Sing Live and the Night of 1000 Voices. I love the choir. I love singing. And combining that with the trip and having Mum there was a real treat.

Mum, Steve and I holidayed in Cyprus in May as well. We lounged around the hotel pool and the hotel bar and the hotel restaurant and our room and didn't leave the hotel all week. It was almost perfect. But I really must stop eating milky and creamy things: My stomach can't take it!

In August Ann and I went into Manchester for one of those makeover days where they take photos. I was surprised how much I enjoyed it and came away with a bunch of photos that I'm really pleased with. They actually make me look quite normal, and not strange or hideous. Although they do show I have a dent in my forehead. Investigations into the cause of the dent are ongoing. (I suspect Dad might've dropped me on my head as a child.)

One final highlight of the year has been Pinterest. Ah, what joy. And what agony. Pinterest inspired me to make some of my Christmas presents this year. Claire got a handmade bracelet that I was quite pleased with. My Dad received an iPad case made out of a recycled suit jacket. I gave my Mum a scrapbook of our wedding photos - it wasn't quite finished but I think she was really pleased to finally have a wedding album. Ann got a Memory Jar. And my in-laws... I made them a patchwork quilt, which I finished at 2.30am on Christmas Day. It turned out really well and I have a queue of people asking for me to make them one. So Pinterest has been a success in that it has lead me to achievements myself.

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Looking forward to 2013, I'll be graduating from the Open University, achieving my Literature degree. I'll also be going to see Wicked when it tours (another one of my favourite musicals ticked off the list) and I'm hoping to get to see a few more theatre productions this year too. I would love to see Avenue Q, although I'd be surprised if that opportunity rolls around this year. I'm really looking forward to the Les Miserables movie, and Sing Live's first concert of 2013 on the 3rd of Feb at the Bridgewater Hall.

I'm renewing my 2012 New Year's Resolution to read 12 books (I only managed 6, with 2 still on the go) but I think I might have to aim for 13 books as it's 2013.2013 will also see the first draft of the novel that I've started at least three times, and I'm determined to keep a diary. Writing has to be a focus of the year, if for no other reason than it's necessary for my degree, so I'm relaunching my writing blog tomorrow. I'm not setting a goal of blogging every day, but I want to make sure there is regular content, and if I'm writing everyday that should be easy... Should... Be... Easy. Famous last words.

I really want to spend a bit more time with friends this year; I feel like I've hardly seen Ann or Claire and I'd really like to meet up with some old friends that I haven't seen for a while. I'm already dreaming up a visit to Ally and Rich in Londonium, and maybe lunch or dinner out with Jo Jo from First Choice. And who knows what else I might manage to do.

So I'm making 2013 a year of friendship and achievement! 13 might be unlucky for some, but it's never steered me wrong. Hello 2013. Goodbye 2012.

X Factor Live Shows Week 5

It's the halfway point of the live shows and, by now, we should be settling in. Every week, things should be getting more predictable and the results should be expected. And yet, this has been probably the most turbulent week (or two) in X Factor history.

Following on from the renaming of Little Mix, the resignation of a band member from The Risk and the immediate replacement of him, the absence of judge and Girls mentor, Kelly, and then the shock loss of Sophie Habibis (all in week's blog), this week we had a double elimination that continued to reinforce the fact that no-one is safe, and then the shock exit of Frankie Cocozza from the show. But more on that later. First, a run down of this week's performances.

This week, I was most saddened to say goodbye to Johnny. I find him entertaining and his charm and joy is infectious. However, he's not quite X Factor material so it was inevitable that he would leave sooner or later. Not only was he first to perform this week, and therefore vulnerable for that reason, I felt his performance was weaker than in past weeks. The staging was great and he looked fantastic on stage, and ever more comfortable when performing, but the first of the two songs in his mash-up didn't really work for me. You Spin Me Round was much better and it was a shame that he didn't just do this and skip Hung Up. As for Kitty this week, I also felt her performance fell a little flat. There is nothing better than a nice bit of Madonna, but Kitty murdered Like a Prayer. She doesn't have the best voice in the world, in particular her vibrato (the pleasant wobbly sound, for the uninitiated) is very forced and fast. It's distracting and I would much rather she just sang a clean note than force a vibrato. I also hated the staging. It annoys me a little that Kitty feels the need to prance around in her underwear every week. Having said that, she is a good commercial act, so the decision to keep her in over Johnny, was the right one. Part of me would rather have seen Johnny stay though.

Moving on to Kelly's lovely Girls, Janet was second in the line-up and committed the ultimate sin of performing - she forgot the words! Having said that, I strongly disagree with the feedback from the judges. I really enjoyed her performance. It was an excellent song choice that suited her quirky voice. I also loved the styling this week, with the softer make-up and hair. There's only one thing about Janet that continues to irritate me (and others that I know of) and it's her general attitude. She always seems miserable and the comment on the show about not wanting to dance because it detracts from the music is just pompous nonsense. I just wish she'd have a bit of fun for a change, because I want to have fun when I watch her. As for Misha B, now there's a girl who knows how to have fun on stage, and I always enjoy her performances. She did one of my favourite songs too - Proud Mary - and did a big song the justice it deserved. Win or not, Misha B is going to be an X Factor success story.

The other casualty in this week's double elimination was The Risk. After the last minute changes of the previous week, they were probably under the most pressure to bring it to the stage this week. The sad thing is that they did bring it. But unfortunately as successful as Night to Remember was as a performance, it just wasn't memorable. I had to go back and watch it YouTube to remind myself what they sung and it was only watching it back that I realised just how good it was. What a shame. But at this stage, every act has to do their best to stand out against the competition, because not doing so will cost you your place on the show, as it did for The Risk. The other remaining group in the contest, Little Mix, had a tough song, and if I'm honest, the vocal wasn't that great this week, it certainly wasn't as good as The Risk, so perhaps it's a bit unfair that they stayed and the boys went. However, I can't help but like them and, unlike The Risk, their performance was memorable. I do think they have a long way to go, I they want to survive future votes. Their harmonies are weak and when they sing in unison it's even worse because the sound is muddled and clashy (probably because they are not actually in unison, are supposed to be in harmony and there are harmonies on the backing). I love my Little Mix girls, but it's time for them to up their game.

Finally, the Boys - my favourite category! Craig Colton was a revelation this week. This should have been a weak theme for him, having stuck to ballads (and quite rightly, with that type of song being his strength), but the song really suited his voice and he looked so comfortable on stage, like he was having so much fun, it was infectious. I genuinely enjoyed the performance. It's getting to the stage where I can't wait to see what he pulls out of his bag of tricks next, and where I can't separate him an Marcus - surely they must both be headed for the Final. Speaking of Marcus, he was, as usual, superb this week. This is a guy I can get exited about. He's got a great voice, he'll have a go at anything and always puts in 100%. He's fun to watch, and really enjoys being on stage. Plus, he's really cute, although that is by no means the be-all of his charms. Once again, I can't wait to see what he will do next. Rather than Misha B, surely both Craig and Marcus are headed for great careers whether they win the competition or not.

As for Frankie (who gets a paragraph all of his own), what a naughty boy and what a vile performance. The least deserving of his place in terms of his vocal ability, I am glad that he's gone from the show, although I wish it had been by public vote and not because of his behaviour. I understand why Gary chose Frankie to go into the show, and I understand why he was still there, but his performance on Saturday was terrible. He was shouting rather than singing and was just walking around the stage rather than performing. The rumours that he was high at the time are hardly surprising. As for his behaviour, I hope that he will have learned from the experience. Considering the thousands of people that applied for X Factor, and the many hundreds of very talented people who weren't successful, rightly or wrongly, I can't help but feel that Frankie should have been more appreciative of the opportunity.

Thankfully, we have a chance to give one of the four acts that went out in Week 1 the opportunity to come back and be part of the X Factor again. Voting is open now and will close on Saturday during the live show (12th November some time after 8.15pm). You can vote for lovely Essex lasses, 2 Shoes (0901 616 1301), rock chick, Amelia Lily (0901 616 1302), curly-haired cutie, James Michael (0901 616 1303) or hunky hero, Jonjo Kerr (0901 616 1304). For more details and for call costs, click here. I'll be hoping that either 2 Shoes or Amelia Lily come back. I'd definitely like to see more of either of them.

Inevitably, there have been some people saying that the show should bring back Johnny, The Risk, or one of the other previously departed acts. However, it would be difficult to justify that to Ofcom, to whom ITV are accountable for their public telephone voting. The public have already voted against the acts that have gone in the past. I'm not sure what Ofcom rules are about it, but I'd bet it would be a headache for the broadcaster. In addition, some of the evicted performers have already made other commitments - Sophie Habibis, only one week out of the show, has been out and about quite a lot already, and will be at Birchwood Shopping Centre next Thursday (17th November) evening to sing and switch on the Christmas lights. Therefore, this lifeline to the initial four acts that were evicted seems like a good halfway house and I will welcome their return. I hope that whoever returns will be able to make something of this second chance.

NaBloPoMo Day 30 - X Factor Live Shows Week 4

What a shocker! But that's the way of this show; sometimes contestants that have the potential to go all the way end up in the bottom two, and unfortunately, who stays and goes all depends on who they are up against in the showdown.

So let's start with the Girls category. It's a testament to the fact that Kelly is actively mentoring her acts, that her absence this week, showed in their performances. It's important to say that there really wasn't a bad performance this week, from any of the acts, but there are always weaker performances and Sophie was, for me, probably the weakest of the night. She didn't really do anything wrong, but it was a terrible song choice - many people have tried, and failed, to up date it but it doesn't seem to work without that old fashioned, Nancy Sinatra type of vocal. That mistake left Sophie exposed, and her song for survival wasn't very impressive either. Although I did love her man-chair. Where can I get one? Ahem... I also thought Janet was quite weak. I love the Miss Havisham vibe that the production team put into the staging and I appreciate what she tried to do with song. It was suitably atmospheric, particularly on the flattening of certain notes, but some songs shouldn't be messed with. I can't help but reflect, as well, that Janet needs to smile more. I understand how much pressure she's under and she's obviously had some personal distress as well, but performing is about putting on a show as much as it is about plugging into your emotions (and those of others) and she's such a talented and beautiful girl, it's a shame to see her constantly solemn. Finally, Misha B. The one act from the Girls category that I didn't expect to see in the bottom two. I always love her performances and this week was no different. I love how adventurous she is with the staging and costuming and I think she has an amazing voice. Having said that, I think this week was her worst performance so far. That isn't to say it was bad: it wasn't. I honestly think the only reason she made the bottom two was because of the little disruptive rap bit in the middle of her song. It was unnecessary and didn't really work for me. I can imagine others being really annoyed by it and in such a close competition, that's a dangerous thing to do.

Moving on, one of the acts that I did half-expect to see in the bottom two was The Risk. Opening the show is always difficult and always a disadvantage, because everyone else is compared to you. It is therefore vital to put in a performance that will blow everyone else out of the water. I didn't think The Risk's performance measured up to the task. Having said that, it's hard to put together a show-stopping performance in 24 hours, which is basically all they had left after Ashley's shock departure, and Ashford's return. Turning to Tulisa's other group, Rhythmix... I mean Little Mix, I really did enjoy their performance and I'm pleased that the name change didn't damage them this week. I thought their interpretation of Alien was excellent and the staging was stunning. As much as I have enjoyed their previous shows, it was nice to see something more grown-up from them this week.

So who was strongest this week? That's always a tough call and the competition is impossibly close this year, but I agree with Gary that the performance of the night was Craig Colton. It was a stunning version of Set Fire to the Rain and the energy he put in stamped his identity on a song that is already quite iconic. The staging, once again, was brilliant and made it a memorable performance. As far as the rest of the Boys category goes, I also loved Marcus. He's very natural on the stage - an art which eludes me and which I am very jealous of - and he had a great voice. I really enjoyed his interpretation of Superstitious and, if it had been my choice, that's what I would've liked to see opening the show. It actually got me grooving in my seat. Frankie was, once again, the weakest of the three boys. Having said that, I did enjoy his performance and it was a good song choice for him because it hides the weaknesses in his voice. He's not quite my cup of tea, though, and I would honestly have preferred to say goodbye to him than lose Sophie.

In the fourth and final category, the Overs, I much preferred Johnny's performance from last week, but the song choice this week really did show off his voice. I adore him and think he has great appeal. He'll get a career out of this, but he's not really X Factor and I fear that it is only a matter of time before he falls by the wayside. Until then, I'll continue to enjoy his performances and his infectious smile. Last of all, Kitty continues to trouble me. She is gradually winning me over with her performances and this week was no different. It was a great interpretation of Sweet Dreams that made it really contemporary. I think the less she tries to impress with her off-stage persona, and the harder she tries on the stage, the more successful she will be on the show. For the first time, I can see her lasting, but her position is still precarious.

So overall, I would personally have liked to see Frankie Cocozza go this week, if only for the fact that his general laddishness doesn't appeal to me and I think he's a terrible role model. (I sound so old!) I didn't surprise me that Sophie was in the bottom two, but I didn't think she deserved to go and Misha B shouldn't have been in the bottom two at all. I still think Misha B is a winner. I haven't really seen anyone surpass her yet, but Craig, Marcus, Janet and Kitty are all serious contenders.

NaBloPoMo Day 29 - Another day, another chance to sing

This will probably be a fairly quick one, mainly because I need to get out with the dog and I want to finish watching X-Factor but I really wanted to mention a cool (in more ways than one) thing that I did today.

Today, England played Wales in the Rugby League Four Nations competition at the Leigh Sports Village. I, along with a bunch of my fellow Sing Live members were fortunate and honoured to have the chance to sing the national anthems on the pitch before the start of the match.

It was an early start, to get up, dog walked, both of us fed and watered, showered (that's me, not the dog), dressed and out the door to get to Pennington Flash before 9.30am. Arrival at the car park set the pattern for the day: standing around in the cold. We had a very successful rehearsal in the stadium - although the groundsman gave strict orders to stay off the pitch - and considering that it was the first chance we had to try the two anthems with the band and with each other, I think that on its own was an achievement. After some car moving and lunch, we had a blessedly warm practice in the dressing room and then lined up to go out on the pitch for the performance. Unfortunately the lining up was outside and it hadn't warmed up much since the morning, and then even when we got out on the pitch we were waiting for around twenty minutes before the actual singing. By the time we'd finished, I had cramp in one foot and in my hand but it was a great experience and I would do it again a million times... in fact I am doing it again in November in Hull for Wales v Australia.

Sure, there were a few issues surrounding car parking and I had to move my car a total of three times, and there really was a lot of standing around in the cold, but that can hardly be helped. Overall, it was a generally well organised day and we were provided with a really nice lunch and the people who looked after us we great and made sure we had everything we needed.The Welsh National Anthem is a beautiful melody and I thoroughly enjoyed learning and singing it. Although I think I'm going to have to find a harmony for the next time we do it because it's ridiculously high. And despite what people say, I think God Save the Queen is a stirring anthem and it's a pleasure to sing. The soloist was a lovely young singer named Megan Armstrong, who (I'm told) is the brother of a young rugby star. She was fantastic and has a stunning and powerful soprano voice and she looked amazing in a black sparkly number for the performance. And all of this was possible with Sing Live.

I know I've beaten this drum before, but I really do think that Sing Live is the best opportunity for ordinary people like me, who can hit a note, but have a thoroughly ordinary voice, to sing in brilliant venues and at big events like this. As my husband said earlier, this is the second time I have been on TV in just over a year. Short of getting on one of the talent contests (not going to happen!) how else would I get that chance?

NaBloPoMo Day 28 - Group Therapy

It's all gone on in the X Factor house this week. At least for Tulisa's groups it has; it seems rather than going from strength to strength they are going from trauma to trauma.

Earlier this week, Stephen Fry tweeted a link to an open to Simon Cowell and his multi-million pound show from the organisers of a charity. The charity in question was called Rhythmix and works with young people in the South East of England. Their aim is to develop the kids' personal and social skills while encouraging creativity. They have reportedly worked with 40,000 young people in the twelve years since they were formed. When the X Factor four-piece girl group formed, they chose their name without knowing about the charity. When the Syco - Simon Cowell's production company - tried to trademark the name, the charity took action so they could continue to use their existing name. When the girls found out about it, they decided to change their name and this evening announced that, from this weekend, they will be known under the new name 'Little Mix'.

However, that's not the end of the changes. This evening, on twitter, The X Factor announced that four-piece boyband, The Risk, have lost one of their members. Ashley Baptiste, aged 22, said on twitter "I love The Risk to the core. I just know that I am not at the right place to commit fully." Rumour has it that Ashley still wants a solo career and was concerned about committing to the band, only to leave. Ashley has also struggled with illness during the live shows and last week appeared despite suffering from Laryngitis and Glandular Fever in the run up to the show. Rather than continue as a trio, the boys have petitioned X Factor hopeful, Ashford Campbell, who sang in the first and second live shows with rival group, Nu Vibe, to take Ashley's place.

It seems the Girls category is not short of their own problems this week as category mentor, Kelly Rowland has fallen ill during a trip to Los Angeles earlier in the week. A statement read "Kelly is devastated she won't be here for this weekend's show. She is extremely ill with a viral throat infection and her doctors aren't permitting her to fly." However, rumours abound that Kelly is considering quitting the show following accusations from Tulisa in last week's live show that one of Kelly's star acts, Misha B, had been bullying some of the other contestants.

Regardless of whether there is any truth to the rumours, the question is, how will this week's X Factor roller-coaster affect Little Mix, The Risk and three girls, Misha B, Janet Devlin and Sophie Habibis? Such upsets, if playing on the contestants' minds, could affect their performances, and The Risk in particular, face the challenge of bringing a new member up to speed in very short shrift. No wonder Gary is feeling confident for this week. And of course, the earlier controversy over fourth judge, Louis Walsh, is now forgotten. How convenient.

NaBloPoMo Day 27 - Sing Live

I had two options for tonight's blog post. The only thing that prevented me from writing about Manchester City Council's proposals to close facilities at Heaton Park was the fact that I did a political post last night and I am trying hard to keep my blog more lighthearted during NaBloPoMo. Instead, I want to tell you all about one of my passions...

I joined Sing Live in 2009 to perform a concert of Big Band music. It actually seems like it's been much longer than two and a half years because I feel like it has been a long (although incredibly fun) journey between then and now. After that first concert I was privileged to join the company for the 10th Anniversary concert at the Royal Albert Hall, followed by Movie Musicals in February last year, the Beatles Story in June the same year, and then Magical Musicals in June this year. Last summer I also performed with Sing Live on the channel 5 TV show, Don't Stop Believing. Looking back, it's no wonder that it feels like more than a couple of years!

In case you haven't come across Sing Live before now, it is a company aimed at sharing the joy of singing with everyone. The founding principle is 'ordinary people doing extraordinary things in exciting places' and when I think, not just about the venues that I've performed in, but also the ones I haven't been able to join for (Disney World in Florida, Venice, Cruises and even The Vatican) that guiding idea is certainly coming true. Almost everyone I know within Sing Live is an amateur. We are literally ordinary people - very few are exceptionally talented, including me - but we get to sing in amazing places. And it isn't as if we're bad - we are skilled, disciplined and Sing Live concerts are always of the highest possible standard. There are no auditions to join, which means that whether you sing in public or just in the shower, you can participate, and the group environment is a great place to sing while feeling supported and safe.

When I think about my journey with Sing Live, that's exactly what I needed, especially at the beginning. I used to sing when I was in school, but hadn't done any singing (other than along with the car stereo) for well over 10 years. I have no illusions about my ability but I really felt, despite getting a lot out of singing, that I couldn't sing. I felt very out of practice and very unsure of myself. Over the course of the past couple of years, I have got back into the groove and grown in confidence. I've even tried out for solos, and recently started personal singing tuition to help me improve further. And all of that is down to the friendly, nurturing environment that Sing Live provides.

Our next concert starts rehearsing in early November and we will continue through until early February, when we perform at the Bridgewater Hall in Manchester. If you are a frustrated (or not so frustrated) singer, come along to one of our preview nights next Wednesday or Thursday. If you don't want to sing, why not come to our concert. Even if you don't live in the Manchester area, Sing Live operates across the UK and also in Florida. More details available from the Sing Live website.

NaBloPoMo Day 24 - X Factor Live Shows Week 3

What a week on X Factor. It is rare indeed that I don't watch the Saturday night show and have an act (or sometimes several) that I either think will go, or wish would go, particularly this early on. I felt that everyone put in a good performance and as a result, the show was a pleasure to watch. Here's a few thoughts on the four categories and this week's result.

The Boys category took the lead into the show this week with a tremendous opening from hairdresser, Marcus Collins. His vocal could have been stronger but I felt his performance was well rounded and, as always, his fantastic personality shone through. Frankie Cocozza was much better this week - wooing the ladies and getting rat-arsed obviously works for him. (Hrrrmmmm!) Frankie has the weakest voice of all the contestants (including many of those that have already gone) but his strength is his stage presence and 'cheeky lad' character. As long as he and Gary continue to play up to that he will be alright. Craig disappeared into the background a little this week and I felt he was somewhat at risk. He has a great voice and a lovely personality (he comes across as being very personable on Twitter - @CraigColtonUK) and when he has the right song he can really emote, but I can't help but feel that Rock Week isn't his gig.

The Girls category put in another solid performance this week. Janet brought a slightly insipid version of Sweet Child of Mine, but I can't fault her vocal. She was lacking a little bit of sparkle, but in the grand scheme of things she was still a joy to watch. Sophie is emerging as a potential dark horse now. She is starting to show a bit more of her gutsy personality, which is a pleasure to see. Her verson of Living on a Prayer was probably the best version of it, bar the original; I've heard it sung a lot of different ways, and I've head it murdered a lot of different ways, but Sophie's version was excellent. Of course (and this is the only sad thing) is that both Janet and Sophie, no matter how talented, pale in comparison to Misha B. The girl is a great character, a great performer, has a great look and a great brand. She's hard working, dedicated and has a genuine feel for 'the biz'. It's a sign of her threat to the other categories and contestants when Tulisa and Louis feel the need to character assassinate her, live on stage. More on that in a moment.

I felt that the weakest category overall this week was the Groups, although this was due in part to Tulisa not understanding the challenge (Has she never watched this show before????) and, certainly for The Risk, a weakened team through illness. I have enjoyed both groups in previous weeks but I thought that this week was Rhythmix's weakest performance vocally, but their song was rubbish and the vocal arrangement was a train wreck. Tulisa had better up her game next week if she doesn't want to lose her girls. The Risk were the beet of the two groups and the arrangement for Crazy was actually really quite inventive, although it lends itself to a four-part better than the Push It Mash-up that the girls had.

Finally, the Over 25s were super this week. Like Kelly, I think of Johnny as my guilty pleasure. I loved his performance this week (although it got a bit slap-dash at the end) and the styling this week was brilliant. The thing that really entertains me though is the banter with Gary. Long may it continue! Sami, I fear, was let down by her mentor. Why is it that Louis can't see past the cruise-ship/lounge singer styling and song choice. Sami has a belting voice and deserved a better shot than Louis was able to give her. I am disappointed that she suffered as a result. As for Kitty, my personal opinion of her hasn't changed. But like her or loathe her, she can sing and she can perform. I hate to say it, but I felt this week was her strongest performance to date and it put her right up there with the best acts on the night. I predict, however, that the public will not warm to her and she will fnd herself in the bottom two again. If she comes up against a more commercial and popular act, she will be out.

So, overall, an entertaining showcase of genuine talent. I found it hard to pick the loser this week and I was sad that it was Sami, particularly since I feel that she was not given the best chance of success because of her mentor. On that note, Louis is in hot water at the moment because of his accusation of bullying against Misha B, and rightly so. It was a terrible thing to say, especially for the sake of gaining an advantage over your competition. The press (and the public) are beying for blood and I tend to agree; Louis is past his sell-by date (it's nothing to do with his age, it's to do with his ability to mentor and judge the competition) and I would like to see him replaced. Rumours circulate that Simon Cowell could be returning, but I feel that would be a mistake. I would like to see a younger artist take Louis's place however my feeling is that it's not going to happen. We'll wait and see.

NaBloPoMo Day 16 - Open Mic Night

Tonight I had the privilege to watch and here some of Greater Manchester's (and some from further afield) best performers.

I was there supporting my friend, Kirsty, who is a superb performer with a belting voice (you can see another of her competition-winning performances here). Tonight she gave a flawless rendition of "On My Own" from Les Miserables, which is one of my favourite songs. She looked fabulous too, in a stunning electric blue dress.

Most of the performers tonight were very impressive but two (apart from Kirsty, of course) stood out from the rest. Eli Cripps, a young woman with a lovely tone in her voice, gave a great performance that struck a fine balance between attitude and cocky. It was lively and fun and very enjoyable. The other notable performance of the night was from a group of three young lads; Hip Hop Disciples. They were by far the best performers of that particular genre and really deserve some recognition.

Sadly, Kirsty didn't quite make the cut tonight, but it is certainly not a negative reflection on her talent or skill as a performer. Well done to her on a great performance and to those who were successful.

This is my first encounter with the Open Mic UK competition and it is worthy of support, offering help and exposure to performers across the UK. For more information, visit the website: www.openmicuk.co.uk

NaBloPoMo Day 15 - X Factor Live Shows Week 2

It was a great show tonight and I had that rare pleasure of watching live - ordinarily I record it and watch it back the next day to spare hubby the 'pain' of having to sit through it but there was nothing else on so I won... DEFAULT DEFAULT DEFAULT!

I think tonight's show demonstrated just how strong the field is this year. In past years there has always been a mish-mash of talent when it comes to the first couple of live shows, mostly, I think, due to the pressure. This year, however, there is plenty of talent on display and it is actually very refreshing.

The Groups opened the show this week with one of the weakest performances of the night from boy-band, Nu Vibe. Louis nick-named them No Vibe, which, despite their decidedly average performance, is a bit unfair. They were much improved on the previous week and it was easy to see why they had got through. However, it was just an average performance when taken in context and opening the show is always the worst slot, so I fear they will be in the bottom two, and will probably be going home tomorrow night. Of the other two groups, The Risk put in another solid performance, although the start of their number was a little dodgy. I wasn't sure whether it was the vocal or that the sound balance was off. But even so, it was a good performance. Rhythmix were the stand-out act in the group category for me. These four girls look great, sound great and do something a little bit different from the usual girl-band type of stuff. They feel fresh and new without being weird. They're comfortable on stage and so that makes them easy to watch. For the first time ever, I have voted in the first show and I voted for these girls. I'd like to think that's a sign that they are something special.

I think the Girls category was probably the strongest overall tonight. Misha B is a genuine pop-star. She has the look, the personality and above all the voice to be something really special but she is humble with it. It's like she knows she's good, but that she relies on the goodwill of others to carry her, and she's OK with that. Janet Devlin put in another lovely performance tonight too. She has a beautiful voice that is unique, which makes her ideal as a recording artist. She was a little downbeat in her performance, and her personality didn't come through, but I think that's to be expected due to the bereavement. What a little trooper. Finally, Sophie Habibis is the big question mark for me. When I hear her sing, I think she could be the dark horse and sneak up on this contest. Normally, this would be the kind of contestant that lingers in the background for a few weeks and then suddenly shines and goes on to be very successful. However, I wonder how much time she has. The competition is tough this year.

The Boys category also had some highs and lows for me. Lets talk about Frankie Cocozza. I completely understand why he's there, and I do agree that he deserves it because he knows how to put on a good show. But the song choice this week left him completely exposed. He was uncomfortable (probably due to the late change) and although it was a song that suited his vocal, it's also one that is impossible for him to hide in. The weaknesses in his voice were all too obvious and I wonder if he will survive. Both Marcus and Craig put in great performances tonight. They are strong contenders and I hope they both stay for a few more weeks at least.

Finally, the Over 25s category. This is still a category that is suffering rather than benefiting from Louis's guidance. Sami was first up with her stunning diva voice, but the song was hopeless. The problem with a song as iconic as 'I Will Always Love You' is that it is impossible to make it sound anything other than a cover of Whitney and it's so rooted in pop-culture that it shows it's age. Of course, Sami nailed it and made it appear effortless, so that should see her through but I hope that Louis starts listening to some contemporary music to find her something better for next week. Johnny is my guilty pleasure in this contest. Far from being the light entertainment like Jedward were, he has talent and he puts on a show. He didn't get great comments and I know he has his haters, but I love him to bits. Now... Kitty... her performance tonight was flawless. She took another old and iconic song but did make it a bit different and I thought her stage presentation was brilliant. Having said that, I find her so utterly fake that I can't believe her or her performance. I find her cocky and arrogant, and I actually wouldn't mind that (because the world is full of cocky an arrogant people and she has incredible talent, so would perhaps, be justified in her cockiness and arrogance) but she tries to hide it. She stands on the stage trembling and meekly thanking the judges for their comments, but it's a lie. You can see it in her eyes.

So, my prediction for the bottom two is Nu Vibe for sure and maybe Kitty, just because the public aren't warming to her. It should probably be Nu Vibe and Frankie Cocozza, but I can't see that happening. Marcus could be at risk, because I'm not are how strong his following is. I would be genuinely surprised if it was anyone else in the bottom two. I think Nu Vibe are going home tomorrow night. I still think Misha B could win this year. In the meantime, I will be looking forward to more from the girls and from Rhythmix in particular.

NaBloPoMo Day 10 - X Factor Live Show Week 1

If there is any doubt, I love X Factor. It's one of the few talent show / reality show type of programme that I watch, yet I have stuck with it since the second year. Religiously.

I really enjoyed the shows this weekend. Despite initial concerns, I love the new judges; they each have a refreshing air of honesty about them and it's nice to see evidence in the VTs of them actually mentoring their acts. However, I wish they'd binned Louis Walsh as well. The only thing he adds to the show is his hackneyed catchphrase book ("You belong on that stage"... "You could win the X Factor"... "You look like a popstar") and a catalogue of dated music; sometimes he even manages to make his acts dated when doing current stuff. I really don't know how he does it.

The field is also strong this year with several potential winners. It is, of course, always hard to tell how things will play out with so much depending on what happens in the press and whether there are any shocks in the public vote, but even at this stage, I think we're looking at a winner in the girls category. All four performers were excellent on Saturday night and I'm sure it was a tough decision for Kelly. Despite a stunning vocal, I expected her to send home Sophie Habibis - as the least distinctive of the four Girls, I fearthat she will fall foul of the public vote sooner rather than later - but I can't say that I'm disappointed that she stayed. It was a shame to reject Amelia Lily, who opened the show with a strong performance, but at 16 and with her talent, she should have plenty of opportunities ahead of her. In the Girls category, Misha B was the stand-out performance for me. And it's rare for me to enjoy a cover of an iconic song like Rolling in the Deep.

I was unsurprised at the result in the Boys and the Over 25s category. In the Boys category, while James Michael had more potential, he bottled it on the night and put in a weak performance. It was a bad call to start with a Beatles song on opening night and when compared with good performances from Frankie Cocozza (even though that breathy thing was really irritating), Marcus Collins and a stand-out effort from Craig Coltan, it was inevitable that James would be the one to fall.

The Over 25s category is the weakest this year (and indeed, it's the weakest Overs category I've seen for several years). Sami Brooks has a great vocal but I can't see her competing for long. Kitty Brucknell is a great entertainer but the public don't like her. She will inevitably be in the bottom two for week after week and constantly get saved before the judges finally let her go. Until then she will be the contestant that everyone loves to hate. Johnny Robinson is adorable and I'm so glad he's made the cut. His performance on Saturday was very average but he's such a character and a pleasure to see. Although I genuinely liked Jonjo Kerr, I felt that his performance was boring and lacked sparkle. He wasn't ready for the live shows and it was right that he should go.

My big disappointment in the result came from the Groups category. I rath enjoyed The Risk and Rhythmix. Although I don't find them all that distinctive in the wider market place they have talent and are appealing acts. The other two groups stood out in the category for me: Nu Vibe for all the wrong reasons and 2 Shoes for all the right reasons. I thought Nu Vibe were terrible and by far the weakest performance of the whole night, while I love the fun and cheeky character of the 2 Shoes girls. I enjoyed the performance, even if the song sounded a little odd without the other 3 parts that it was originally written for, so I was very disappointed that they were the ones that went home and not Nu Vibe. I can only assume that the pregnancy was an issue for the show and hope that the girls will be back next year

So overall, a great start to this year's live shows. My early (and I emphasise that this is EARLY) prediction is a winner from the Girls. At this stage, my Monopoly money is on Misha B with Frankie Cocozza the runner up. But it could all change and I can't wait for next week.

NaBloPoMo Day 9 - Singing

Regular readers may have picked up on the fact that not much actually happens in my life. It's mostly the same sort of thing every day, which leads me to comment on the weather or the news. But today I actually have something to blog about. Today I had my first singing lesson.

I have mentioned before that I've been performing with Sing Live for a couple of years now. This does cost a fair bit but I love it and can't imagine ever wanting to give it up. I have met so many lovely people through Sing Live; every one is very friendly and supportive and I always look forward to rehearsals as much as the actual performances, which are always thrilling. There are plenty of choirs and singing groups out there but Sing Live is the only way (for an ordinary person anyway) to get to sing in some of the best venues. I have performed at the Royal Albert Hall and others have sung all over the world, from Disneyland in Florida, to The Vatican.

However, as much as I love singing with the choir I think I've developed as far as I can in the group environment. I have loads of confidence when I'm singing with others, but when you're solo there's nowhere to hide and I'm my own worst critic. I'm a complete sod for always pushing and striving to be better; some people might say that's a good thing but it can be a failing... perfectionist might be a good word to describe me. So, when my birthday rolled around, I decided to ask for money towards some private lessons.

It's taken me the best part of 3 months to find someone that I got a good enough vibe from to actually take the leap and go for an initial session and I was not disappointed. I'm not going to go into too much detail because my iPad battery is dying, but the tutor, Jamie, reassured me and made me feel comfortable and relaxed, even though singing on my own usually terrifies me. We did some warm-ups then some vocal exercises and finished with some Adele (one of my favourite artists).

As well as doing the private lessons, Jamie also works with a couple of other performing arts coaches to form the Rhapsody Academy, which offers singing, dancing and acting classes for kids and teenagers. They are based at Rivington Park School near Horwich, Bolton and offer a range of courses. You can get more info here.

Despite my crippling nerves, I love singing and performing. It's is a great confidence builder (especially choral singing - safety in numbers and all that) and it's good for you too. Not only can singing (done properly) be quite physical, it can help you expand your lung capacity and boosts seratonin levels, which combats depression. In other words, it's good for your health and it makes you happy. I am a firm believer in the ethos that everyone can sing, it's just a case of some people finding it easier than others to pitch a note. So if you like to sing in the shower or you sing along with the radio in the car, maybe it's time to try something like Sing Live. Or if your kids are into the music, maybe give something like Rhapsody a try. There really isn't much to lose but so much to gain and so far, I haven't regretted getting involved.

15 Minutes of Fame

Hrrmm, 29th of June. That was the last time I posted. Two and a half months... before I know where I am it will be 2011! The reason for my long blogging absence? Don't Stop Believing!

I have posted about Sing Live a couple of times before. I started singing with the Sing Live North West choir last April and have since sung with them three times at the Bridgewater Hall in Manchester and I have also sung at the fabulous Royal Albert Hall in London. Every time I perform the experience gets better, so much so that I constantly ask myself how each performance can be topped. But somehow, it always is. This summer has been no different.

I think it was back in April when a group of singers from Sing Live Merseyside, Sing Live North West and Sing Live North East gathered in a car park in Gosforth (because we couldn't get into the Civic Centre that had been booked for the occasion) to audition for a new TV show to be broadcast on Five. None of us really expected to get through, but we got the 'call' at the end of June, inviting us to perform on and spent July preparing for our fifteen minutes of fame.

I often wondered about the experiences of TV show contestants, like those on X-Factor. In interviews, they all seem to spout wonderful things about how close they are as a group, and how much they enjoy the experience. I used to suspect that it was bluster. Exaggeration. Turns out, it's not.

Performing with Sing Live on Don't Stop Believing is probably the single coolest and most exciting experiences of my life so far. There are something in the region of 4,000 Sing Live members spread across 11 companies in the UK and USA but the eighty-five of us that performed live on TV are part of an exclusive club. We are ambassadors for the company we love, and for the 4,000 members who weren't able to sing with us. We did get to know each other really well, having spent days at a time together, and while there were occasional upsets, everyone was very supportive of each other. It was a privilege and a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for which I will be perpetually grateful.

It's impossible to fully explain what it felt like to be part of the experience. Many people have asked if I was nervous - no I really wasn't, I was excited. Standing on the stage, head down, waiting for the music to start, was incredible. Thinking of the millions of people watching at home, including friends and family that were probably just as excited as me, and probably more nervous, was empowering. And if I thought there was a buzz before we went on stage, it was nothing compared to the buzz coming off stage after performing. The atmosphere was exhilarating. I felt a bond with the rest of the group that I have never felt before, and I would gladly give my right arm to do it again. Although I don't think that would make for good choreography.

If you would like to see how I spent my summer, you can watch the show in full by clicking here, or you can watch our main performance and the judges comments by clicking here. I hope you enjoy it. It's also worth saying that we're not a special group of Sing Live members that are better than others; we're not all amazing performers. We are ordinary people.

Anyone can join Sing Live and there are no auditions to sing with us. If you would like to be part of one of our performances, there is nothing stopping you. :o)

Time Flies...

Boy and how... September and October seem to have passed by at light-speed. Already it is a week into November, Christmas is on it's way and I have barely even started the shopping. (Normally at this point, all but a handful of pressies have been bought.) I am not very organised!

So why have two months been and gone without me even noticing? I have been busy busy busy!

September:
The month started off with a well deserved holiday. It's been the best part of twenty years since I last visited the Costa Brava. It was cheap and cheerful so off we trotted. I have to admit that I had hoped to rekindle something of my childhood wonder on this trip but I was initially disappointed. Short of gouging out my adult eyes and reinserting my eyes from twenty years ago, I don't think I could ever have overlooked the tired and tawdry surroundings, the graffiti scrawl and the general sense of decay. The hotel was very nice, but not without its problems - mainly location and some very thin walls that meant the light switch next door would woke us up a few times. Also, due to the crap exchange rate between the pound and the euro, it was expensive to eat and drink - both in the hotel and beyond - but we did manage to do a brilliant bargain day trip to Barcelona. We got a return ticket on the train that included a ticket for one of the open-top bus tours around the city at half the cost of any of the organised trips and the best thing was that we got to do what we wanted, when we wanted and for as long as we wanted. My impressions of the region didn't much change over the course of the week, but fortunately we still had a fantastic time. It was definitely worth it.

A few days after we got back from Spain, it was Last Night of the Proms time again - already so soon! We went up to Buille Hill Park at the top of our road for one of the Proms in the Park performances. We were treated to some fabulous musical fayre from the BBC Philharmonic, Juliette Pochin, Jon Christos and headliner, Chris de Burgh. As well as Last Night classics like Jerusalem and Pomp and Circumstance, the show included a bit of Gershwin, Pirates of the Caribbean and a stunning performance of Habanera.

The following weekend was busy in the extreme. The last big rehearsal for our concert at the Royal Albert Hall on Sunday followed a singing workshop in Huddersfield on Saturday. The workshop covered a number of subjects and was led by Kevin Miles and Dirk Donahue, both of whom work for Disney in Florida. Kevin is the current captain of barbershop group, the Dapper Dans, and Dirk is the current captain of Disney's Voices of Liberty. Both fellas were really fun and fascinated by the fact that us brits pronounce all the lyrics correctly. :o) To finish off the day, the group had the chance to sing with an original Disney recording of God Help the Outcasts.

The last weekend in September was the big show - a Sing Live performance at the Royal Albert Hall! This concert was special for several reasons. First, the venue. The Royal Albert Hall opened in 1871 and has hosted the world's most notable performers. Every major soloist and orchestra has performed at the Hall, including modern greats like Pavarotti, The Beatles and Frank Sinatra, the Hall also welcomed classical greats like Rachmaninov and Verdi to the stage. Secondly, this concert was the crowning glory to a year long celebration of a decade of Sing Live. It was clear that this was an emotional experience for Sing Live founders, John Morris and Linda Metcalfe. Our Musical Director, Steven Roberts, was also thrilled to be conducting over 600 voices at the Royal Albert Hall. It was a long, tough weekend, starting on Saturday morning with drive down to London followed immediately by a full afternoon rehearsing - with all 630 performers for the very first time! Sunday was just as hard work, with a second full afternoon rehearsing, this time at the Hall itself. We barely had an hour to break before we lined up for the performance. But all the hard work was entirely worth it. I still can't express how amazing the whole experience was and I would do it all again in heartbeat!

This week we have just started rehearsing for the next major performance at the Bridgewater Hall. The programme will include lots of amazing Disney music, plus musical classics like 'Anything You Can Do' from Annie Get Your Gun. I can't wait!

Sing Live!

Blog posts have been a bit thin on the ground recently. A busy work schedule will do that to you because there's nothing worse than coming home after ten hours at a computer to sit in front of another computer! So, here I am, wondering what to write about. There's a few things in the news right now that interest me - or irriatate me - but nothing seemed to flow right. Then it occurred to me that I've done some pretty cool stuff recently and not mentioned any of it!

Think back seven weeks (has it really been that long?!?!) what were you doing? I was busy making final preparations to perform at the Bridgewater Hall in Manchester: hair, make-up, dress, shoes, hair again, organising water bottles and snacks, more hair faffing... The day mostly involved a lot of hanging around and waiting. Mostly due to the fact that half the band got 'lost' on their way to the Hall. Eventually, however, we had enough brass to get started on the technical call - our first rehearsal with the incredible National Festival Orchestra Big Band. I have been to 'The Bridge' a couple of times with my folks. We heard the BBC Phil performing Beethoven's choral symphony in December last year and then Greig's piano concert and Fingal's Cave (one of my most favourite pieces of orchestral music) earlier this year. But I was totally unprepared to step out onto the choir circle for the first time. Looking out over the empty auditorium from the 'other side' was amazing, nevermind when the band struck up and everyone started to sing. That single moment was almost better than the performance itself. Especially since the second time I stepped out on the choir circle I felt my stomach physically lurch as the empty seats were suddenly filled with bums and eager faces were staring back at us all. Not to mention my looney mates in the back row waving like nutters! Fortunately, any nervousness was relatively short lived. In fact most of the show is a bit of a blur. I remember it being very hot - this was right in the middle of the heat wave - and I remember my feet hurting... a lot! But the whole experience was awesome.

So awesome, in fact, that on July 26th I did it all again on the Bandstand in Kensington Gardens!

We did a selection of music from the Bridgewater Hall and this time around it wasn't just people from Greater Manchester, but we were joined by fellow choir members from Merseyside and the North East. It was a long day and we spent most of it on a very uncomfortable coach, interspersed with walking. We had a bit of time in London before the performance so Steve and I went for a wander around Harrods, which is only a 20 minute walk to Kensington Gardens. Needless to say, we didn't buy anything, but if it was possible to get a mortgage on a £135,000 set of speakers we would have! Steinway apear to make some stunning audio systems as well as stunning pianos! If anything, I enjoyed the performance at Kensington Gardens even more than the Bridgewater hall, simply because I was much more relaxed and we could see the enjoyment on the faces of our audience. But this show was special to me as well, because the 26th of July would have been my brother's birthday. He brought music to my life as I was growing up because he had an infectious passion for it. Plus his stereo, TV and keyboard were always turned up full blast so the house constantly shook. When he died our house became oddly silent. This concert on his birthday was a great way for me to celebrate and remember his life.

One other cool thing about the trip to London was seeing the Royal Albert Hall in the 'flesh'. The R.A.H. looks out over Kensington Gardens and it's the venue for my next performance, which will be on September 27th, and will be hosted by Judith Chalmers. The choir will consist of around 800 people from the UK and America and we'll be performing songs from the musicals of the stage and silver screen. I can't wait! Tomorrow we're having a big rehearsal in Halifax, so it will be an early start for me.

So as you can see, I have been bitten by some sort of crazy singing bug. But what makes all this possible is the fantastic group of people behind Sing Live. The company motto is "Ordinary People Doing Extraordinary Things In Exciting Places". I am just about as ordinary as anyone else and I'll soon be singing at the Royal Albert Hall. If that doesn't fulfill their motto I'm not sure what will... maybe St Peter's Basilica in the Vatican next year!

Fun Stuff

OK, so serious stuff is over and done with now it's time for the lighter side.

First, I am now inhumanly excited about the new Star Trek movie. I remained so sceptical for so long but now I simply can't wait. Simon Pegg was on Friday Night with Jonathan Ross last night, which only served to inflame my quiet hysteria. I think I might have to book us some tickets for the premiere - preferrably on IMAX! Oddly, after watching Friday Night... I also have a strange compulsion to go and see the Hannah Montana movie. I think Miley Cyrus has been exercising so sort of new hypnosis technique on me: The clue was probably the repeated shouts of "See my movie!" in hilarious fashion throughout Ross' show.

I recently found (or rather, was alerted to) a 'new' TV channel which I have been enjoying recently. Rocks & Co (Sky Channel 642) are modelled on the long running Gems TV (broadcasting on Sky, V irgin and Freesat) in that they offer a range of gemset jewellery in 'Reverse Auctions'. Basically they start at a ridiculous price and 'crash' to a lower, more realistic price and generally keep dropping until they hit the lowest price that they want to sell that item for. It's essentially a game of chicken: which viewer will 'blink' first and buy? If interested in something, the longer you wait the lower the price, but also the greater the chance that someone else will get there first. You can almost hear the masses reaching for the phone with one hand and the 'plastic' with the other! Whether you buy anything at any given time is up to you - I rarely purchase this sort of thing for myself, but tend to buy jewellery for my Mum - but what I'm loving at the moment is the 'window shopping'experience. Rocks & Co have some fabulous gemstones in sizes, quality and varieties that most people will rarely get the chance to see. I highly recommend it but make sure you lock the credit card away first. They have a ring resizing service, but much to my dismay have thus far been unable to resize my credit card! That 27ct Rubellite will have to wait.

Finally, Thursday nights is now music night for me. I have my piano lesson straight after work and then from there I head straight out to Bolton for choir practice! After careful consideration I decided to join SingLiveUK, who recruit amatuer singers for events that they organise all over the UK, and sometimes overseas too. (There is a group at the Vatican this weekend!) I'll be taking part in the performance of Sing The Music of the Big Bands at the Bridgewater Hall in Manchester on June 28th. Tickets are available online from https://www.bridgewater-hall.co.uk or direct from SingLiveUK. Personally, I am very excited and can't wait to get back into singing after 12 years of musical silence! We'll be performing some of my personal favourites made famous by the likes of the Rat Pack and, more recently for the younger generation, Michael Buble and Robbie Williams. Incidentally, I will also be the third person in my immediate family to give a musical performance to a public audience: My Granny was a violinist for the Halle Orchestra many years ago and my Dad performed a few years ago at the Eden Court Theatre in Inverness.