Q&A with Alfie Boe
Alfie Boe joins Scala Radio to curate a new series - Alfie Boe's Summer Soundtracks
Enjoy a musical treat across July as the acclaimed tenor Alfie Boe swaps the stage for the studio on Scala Radio, as he presents his Alfie Boe's Summer Soundtracks.
Every Sunday at 6 pm, Alfie shares his favourite classical pieces and singalongs, creating the perfect soundtrack for your sunny evenings.
Alfie's passion for music knows no bounds, and he's excited to present a diverse selection of classical and classically-inspired melodies. From the powerful symphonies of Beethoven and Mendelssohn to the charm of traditional folk tunes, every Sunday evening in July, Alfie will take you on a journey through the rich tapestry of classical music.
Listen to Alfie Boe's Summer Soundtracks here.
We caught up with Alfie to find out more about his classical background.
What was your earliest experience of classical music?
My earliest experience of classical music was with my family. I have fond memories of my father playing records on the old record player, and those melodies left a mark on me from a very young age.
What are your earliest memories of being exposed to music and how did it influence your decision to pursue a career in the musical industry?
As a child, I was exposed to a diverse range of music thanks to my family's record collection. It was during those formative years that my passion for music truly took root and inspired me to dream of a career in the musical industry.
Who are your vocal influences and how have they contributed to your unique singing style?
I've been influenced by many exceptional artists, both classical and contemporary. Names such as Pavarotti and Caruso introduced me to the world of operatic tenors. On the contemporary side, listening to artists like Queen and Elvis from my brother's collection also left a lasting impact.
Are there any specific challenges or obstacles you faced while establishing yourself as a musician, and how did you overcome them?
Like any aspiring musician, I encountered my fair share of challenges on the road to success. While in college, I faced some hurdles that taught me valuable lessons and made me stronger. I believe it's crucial to embrace challenges as opportunities for growth and learning, which ultimately prepared me for my future career.
Is there a performance that had a profound impact on your career trajectory?
Undoubtedly, the 25th-anniversary performance of Les Misérables stands out as a pivotal moment in my career. The significance of that performance cannot be overstated; it opened doors to new opportunities and paved the way for my commercial success and personal growth as an artist.
How do you prepare yourself before stepping onto the stage ahead of your performances?
Preparing for a performance is a vital process. I aim to remain as calm and positive as possible, so I often practice meditation and deep breathing. Visualizing the joy of entertaining the audience helps steady my nerves and allows me to give my best on stage.
Are there any artists you would like to have collaborated with?
Absolutely! There are so many incredible artists from various eras that I would have loved to collaborate with. Artists like Aretha Franklin, Pavarotti, Elvis, and Freddie Mercury are at the top of my list. In the contemporary music scene, I admire Lady Gaga's unique style and immense talent, making her a dream collaborator.
What was the first classical album you owned?
A: The first classical album I owned was a highlights album of La Bohème. This opera holds a special place in my heart, as it was one of the first operas I ever took part in, and it ignited my passion for classical music.
How would you define your musical style?
My musical style is a blend of various genres, making it quite versatile. I love exploring and singing different styles, which allows me to offer something for everyone. You could say I'm a bit of a musical multitasker, and I take great pride in that!