BITE ME! Morgan Interview

MORGAN -By Nikki Neil

As a musician Morgan is not only unique but also inspiring. Classically trained at a young age Morgan has been influenced by a plethora of genres. Her songs are a flawless fusion of the classical training of her childhood and the dark wave/industrial music she so loves.

Her recent release And The Moon Was Hungry (Obsecura Records) is a forward thinking piece of work that reflects her deep appreciation and understanding of the musical arts. The compositions are theatrical, sensual, aggressive, and beautiful and the lyrics are eloquent and descriptive. If you’re seeking to expand your horizons musically and mentally then Morgan is the artist you are looking for.

What did you enjoy most about making "And The Moon Was Hungry"?

My favorite part of making this album was simply seeing it come together. I wrote the majority of the music at the piano on my own, so to step into the studio and see layer after layer transform my simple tunes into a wave of sound was just wonderful.

Was there a central point of inspiration for this album?

Not particularly. I think sonically I was always intent on mixing classical with electronic, but as far as a central theme…. no, there really wasn't a particular inspiration. The lyrics are just a mish-mash of writings compiled over the years. It was the music and production that really tied the songs together.

In your opinion, what are the essential elements for making a good album?

As boring as it may sound, I always go with the old adage: trust your instinct. If it sounds right the first time ‘round I tend not to put too much thought into it. I am definitely not an artist who obsesses over a line or sound. If it feels right in my gut, I don't question it. There is so much technology today, so many options…. I go into overwhelm after a while. I believe in nurturing a concept not coddling it. I would lay down a few tracks and before I knew it the day was done and so were the songs.

What have been some of the high and low points of your career?

One of my favorite moments so far was doing the Harry Potter trailer. There is nothing more intoxicating than knowing that the haunting voice of a trailer heard across the globe is going to be yours. Unfortunately the lows are easier to acknowledge than the highs, but they go as rapidly as they come. I believe that my biggest weakness is self-doubt and that just lingers. I don't think it ever goes away no matter what you ultimately achieve.

What is the most valuable lesson you have learned so far?

The biggest lesson I've learned thus far is that the learning process is constant. I don't think I'll ever know what kind of music I really want to make or what I truly see in the mirror. It's baffling to try and define yourself, but you have to. It's part of the job description. I only hope that those who listen to my music have the patience to let me redefine as the need arises….

When all is said and done, what do you hope to give back to the music community?

There are several things… First off: a sense of class and dignity. Music should speak for itself. Performers’ antics are required to a certain extent, but it would be lovely if the music community valued musicianship more than smoke and mirrors. Secondly, I don't have any illusions of grandeur, but I really hope that people see the cello and the violin and say to themselves "Hey, that looks like fun. I think I'll encourage myself or my children to learn." I feel such sadness for the dying art of classical music. People think that it's just Bach or Beethoven, but the realm of classical music would astound people if they just listened. I think myself and those I play with would love to inspire a movement of people who pick up string instruments again.

Tell me a little about your band?

Well, they are some of the most talented people I have ever worked with for starters. Paul Wiancko (cellist) and Wes Precourt (violinist) are two musicians poised for greatness. They are truly the cream of the crop in terms of the next generation of string players. The three of us are starting to collaborate more, and the classical influence is really starting to flourish as a direct result of their contributions. The music is just so much more lush and interesting. Dan Rosa was actually my piano teacher who later agreed to participate in the band, and Randy Cooke (drummer) is a friend of my producers who I met through them about a year ago. All of them keep me on my toes and don't let me get away with my lazy tendencies. I really couldn't ask for better collaborators.

You played in an orchestra at a music festival in Peru when you were 12. How did that opportunity arise?

My piano teacher was part of an exchange program, and she arranged for me to participate. It was one of the most memorable experiences of my childhood. Practiced for months!

You started playing piano when you were 4. Did you come from a musical family?

Yes and no. My mother is a business woman, but my father…my father is a musical genius. As a child we would come home from the orchestra and my father would sit down at the piano and pick out the themes and movements. It was incredible. He could hear anything and play it on the piano or the guitar for that matter. He was an insane bluegrass player in his younger days. He also has perfect pitch, which was a nightmare for me as I was learning the cello. I would hear "SHARP! FLAT!" being screamed from the kitchen as I practiced.

Do you have a title for your poetry book?

Not as of yet. I must admit that project needs love and attention. I have yet to actually finish the majority of the works I started for the book.

Tell me about your other artistic hobbies?

I do a lot of collage either by hand or on photoshop. I love to draw and take way too many photographs. Also, I create odds and ends with collectibles, which usually end up being put up for sale at the merch table at shows. But, that's just the tip of the iceberg… I thrive on starting new projects, whether it's learning to make hats or doing fabric acrobatics!

What is in store for Morgan in the next couple of months?

We actually have started a secret theatre project, which we are in the process of writing and have just entered pre-production on. This is one of the most exciting things that we have done in a while. It lets us be incredibly self-reliant and creative.

What would you like to say to your fans?

Keep listening, keep spreading the word if you so desire…. Any help is more than recognized! We truly value all support, and we wouldn't be where we are without the tremendous appreciation that you all show.

Be sure to visit: www.morgansmusic.net