Q+A / Story (2): TARJA: “Music speaks to me…”
In the first part we already talked with Tarja about her current compilation “Living the Dream” and this certain turmoil within herself. We continue our conversation:
Early practice …
Tarja laid the foundation for her career at an early age, already at the age of ten it was clear to her that she would become a musician. No, would have to. But in truth, it all began much earlier: “Long before that, I had already started studying classical music, playing the piano and taking many music lessons. But singing had always been my strongest calling. I had a music teacher who encouraged me in my dream, so I began to believe in it. I was determined to move away from my birthplace so I could become a professional musician and study properly. I have never regretted that.”
Music and soul
It is important for Tarja to take in and absorb the music. This is the only way she can convey emotions with her unique character voice. She explains, “Music speaks to me as it speaks to listeners, in a different, personal way for each. I can dive deep into music, and I believe that when it resonates with me, my voice resonates with people. I believe if I wasn’t real and honest with my art, it wouldn’t work. We artists have a way to escape reality a little bit when we practice or work with our music. I lock myself in my rehearsal room for hours, and then I connect deeply with the music, but not only with the music, but also with my soul in a way. It’s a kind of meditation, I would say.”
Always forward
What about the danger of getting lost in the music and emotions? Tarja masterfully manages to separate her artistic side from her private one. “It would really be a burden if I couldn’t, because I see it far too often with my colleagues,” she admits. “I have to be realistic and honest with myself. I don’t think I’ll get anywhere in this life otherwise, and I’d hate to feel like I’m going backwards. That would be a nightmare. I want to move forward, not only as an artist, but also as a person. Music has saved me many times from sorrow and difficulty, and I believe in its power. I feel blessed to be able to work with music because it heals me from time to time. I’m not alone in this either, because I have a great life partner who understands me and my craziness. Sometimes he has to bring me back from the clouds … when I’m not able to do it myself.”
(Interview: Claudia Zinn-Zinnenburg)
Here you can (pre)order the album “Living the Dream” at Amazon.
TARJA is also here with you – enjoy & follow
