Kennedy recalls simply “starting to write songs one day”. “I started to learn the piano early on,” he says. “I can also play the drums and have been singing since I was very young. However,
I have got more serious about the singing recently.” Kennedy, who hopes to study music, says it has been a “bit scary singing lead vocals but I feel very happy, so I think I feel natural in the role”. “With the music, we all push each other,” he says. “We have a lot of songs but we are working on refining the final versions and the songs are changing.” Tinura adds that “naturally, Kennedy’s writing style is very pop but once you start adding the guitars and the drums, it does change things, and it take the best elements of both pop and rock to deliver very catchy songs”. “It also helps that we are all good mates outside the band,” he says. “If you have a good relationship outside the band, then you will have a good relationship inside the band. Even in our band chats, we talk about other stuff.” Tinura believes the band has “plenty of potential, backed by musical talent”. “Any opportunity to perform in front of an audience gives us the chance to really show ourselves and our potential,” he says. “When I joined this band, everyone was pushing me to be a better guitar player and develop my skills.” Sam also appreciates being able to share “our own original music in a live performance”, adding that “four of us – me, James, Tinura, and Kennedy – are in the school choir, so that has helped too” and “since joining the band, my drumming has really improved”. While Matthew has a love of “all
things country”, he equally relishes his band time and bandmates – adding that the band’s videos show that “we have massively improved” from year to year. “People also listen to us as they walk past the Music School as we get some great feedback about our sound and our songs,” he says. As bass guitarist, Matthew focuses on strengthening the connection between rhythm and melody while enhancing the overall sound. Fellow guitarist James points out that the band – both as a whole and individually – has had a lot of support from family members and College tutors, along with making the most of the easy access to the Music School. “The Head of the Contemporary Band Programme, Nolan Hungerford, has helped us a lot, offering guidance and a lot of support,” he says. The boys also credit Old Boy Angus Mossman and fellow tutor Aasha Mallard with being integral to their success. Both Angus and Aasha, who have their own careers in music, have had a major impact on the boys, helping to craft their sound and blend their styles. For anyone wanting to start a band, James urges boys to pick up a guitar, get on the drums, or simply strike a chord and go for it. “If you are into music and you want to have a go, talk to the Director of Music, Mr Aburn, and Nolan Hungerford. It also helps if you have some friends in the same year – good friendships can make for a great band.”
“If you have a good relationship outside the band, then you will have a good relationship inside the band.”
COLLEGE 2023
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