Classical music is now considered something of a niche genre, but there’s plenty of good stuff out there if you look for it. Flautist Shere Fraser is one such artist and her music is well worth your time – we reviewed the track, Hope & Peace, earlier this year. If you missed it, you can find it at the bottom of this interview!
By Jane Howkins
You recently released a track titled Hope & Peace, which we reviewed. What can you tell us about the song?
Hope & Peace was composed with the war in Ukraine heavy on our hearts. We wanted to create something that brought calm and peace, but something that also lifted spirits in this dark time.
How has the reception been for Hope & Peace and where can it be purchased?
Hope & Peace has been very well received and currently has exceeded +82,000 streams in the first four months on Spotify. It is available on all streaming platforms.
You collaborated with Vincent Boot on the track. How was that and how did the collaboration come about?
It was wonderful to collaborate with pianist/composer Vincent Boot from the Netherlands. We both share a deep respect for nature and love of mankind. We connected through social media and whilst I live in the United States, no distance or language barrier could hinder us from sharing the beautiful language of music.
You’ve got a track called Summer’s End coming out soon. What can you tell us about this track?
Summer’s End is out now! It’s a calming neoclassical piece featuring piano, flute and strings. I collaborated with Sacha Hoedemaker, a pianist/composer from the Netherlands. Summer’s End reflects our memories of sun kissed days and we hope to draw the listener in to our warm musical narrative.
Do you plan to release any more singles in the near future?
I have several exciting new releases coming this fall, so please stay tuned. October 28th’s release will be a cheeky rendition of Come Little Children from the movie Hocus Pocus!
Are there any plans to release an album/EP?
I have hopes to release an album/EP, but currently my main focus is connecting with artists and creating beautiful music from different cultures around the world. I play many flutes and I have a particular passion for world flutes.
Has the pandemic hindered your work much?
The pandemic did not hinder my work, it actually opened up many opportunities to connect ‘virtually’ with musicians around the world.
Your music has a classical sound. What/who influences you most as an artist? What have you been listening to recently?
I’m classically trained and on a new journey of expressing my heart through music with improvising/composing. One of my greatest influences is my dear friend, Pedro Eustache. Pedro is a very gifted multi instrumentalist and is currently on tour with Hans Zimmer. I listen mainly to neoclassical or modern piano and I also love relaxing instrumentals/cinematic music.
Where are you based now and what is the local music scene like?
I am based in Blaine, Washington, USA. I currently enjoy playing in our local church. Our local music scene is very diverse in this small American fishing town.
Do you have any UK tour dates lined up?
I don’t have any current UK tours lined up.
Any last words for the fans?
I hope those who listen to my music feel some escape from this busy life and can, for just a brief few moments, feel the day’s burden lifted off their shoulders.