GuilFest 2005. The Guildford Music Festival on 15th, 16th and 17th July 2005

Return to main menu [click here]

Artist: Claire Toomey
Genre: Rock Singer Song Writer
Performing: 17th July 2004 / The Andertons LiveClub Stage
Website Address:[www.clairetoomey.com]
Author: Stuart Dowling

Hi Claire, did you enjoy yourself today?
Yeah, good, it was good.

People have likened your sound to artists like Sheryl Crow and Alanis Morrisette - where do you get your inspiration from?
Definately Sheryl Crow and Alanis Morrisette [laughs], also bands like R.E.M, its nice to be compared to those other guys, I think it is a real compliment. I just think I sound like me!

So when you get home, what is the CD you'd be most likely to put on?
'Jagged Little Pill' by Alanis Morrisette I love that album

So Alanis Morrisette has had a big influence on you then?
[laughs]You could say that

When did you first get into music?
I've been playing since I was little, since I was ten years old.

What made you want to be a musician?
I've always wanted to learn how to play guitar so I went to school and asked them but I was told I was too young so I went and saw the guitar teacher and asked him

You demanded to be taught then?
yeah [she laughs]

You have been working closely with Steve Lyon who worked with acts like Depeche Mode, how has he helped you?
He's really really helped me, telling me how to stand and act on stage, how to develop the band and my songs. He's been a great help, hes done loads for me.

What does 2004 hold for Claire Toomey?
I wouldn't mind just playing more gigs and more festivals (she smiles) I have really enjoyed playing here.

You can next see claire playing The Acoustic Music Cafe - 30th August 2004