I decided to complete a round-up review based around underground classical music recently, with Evelyn Bates’ track I Used To Have Dreams being included on the list. If you somehow missed the track, you can find it below!

By Jane Howkins

You recently released a song titled I Used To Have Dreams, which we reviewed. What can you tell us about the song?

This was the first composition I released and it was quite an intimate piece for me. I wanted to show the listener where I come from as a composer. It almost felt like drawing a clear line after everything I went through as a performing classical pianist and making a fresh start as a composer.

How has the reception been so far, and where can I Used To Have Dreams be purchased?

It was actually great, it was featured in short films and I’ve received a lot of sweet messages from people around the world.

Do you plan to release any more singles in the near future?

Yes, I’ve just recorded 2 new compositions and they will be released in the next 2 months.

What is the composition process like for you as a performer?

I usually start with improvisation and see where it’s gonna take me! Then I settle on the themes while refining the music over several days. And then I write it all down.

Has the pandemic hindered your work much?

Actually the pandemic gave me more projects, as well as time to write and prepare my releases. I’m quite grateful that I could spend that time searching for my path and the direction of my music.

Your music is firmly based within the neo-classical genre. What/who influences you most as an artist? What have you been listening to recently?

I’m in love with cinema and the way the music can elevate the story. Almost all my compositions are minimalistic and cinematic. I love programme music for the same reasons and try to base every composition on a certain theme. I also include different ‘turns’ and movements that would subconsciously deliver the main idea to the listener. My influences are Eric Satie, Phillip Glass, Yann Tiersen and many more.

Where are you based?

I’m based in South East London.

Any last words for the fans?

I’m looking forward to sharing my new releases in the next few months with you!