Meet the band: Grace Sheene (Vocals)
This week Polis catches up with vocal sensation Grace Sheene, who will be joining the Down for the Count Swing Orchestra for some dates on our Swing Into Christmas tour.
When did you start singing?
I saw a production of The Sound of Music at a regional theatre when I was 3 years old and was completely in awe – that’s apparently when I really started singing!
How did you get into swing and jazz?
I loved old musicals growing up and my mom often had classical and jazz radio stations on in the car when she picked me up from school. She was always playing Sinatra, Crosby, and Ella and Louis records at home. I was drawn to the swing feel more than anything else in music long before I knew what to call it.
You grew up in Kentucky. Was there much of a jazz scene there?
There’s a small scene. There are some jazz venues in towns larger than the one I grew up in. There’s lots of bluegrass and folk music, and some blues. As a singer, I got into folk music there and jazz here in London.
What brought you to England?
I moved here in 2017 to go to drama school. After I finished my degree I got an endorsement from Arts Council England to stay in the UK – London feels like home now.
Do you have a favourite jazz record or performance?
It’s too hard to pick just one! I’ve been listening to Just a Dancing Sweetheart: Ray Noble and His Orchestra again this week. I’ve always loved Al Bowlly’s singing and the arrangements are timeless and perfect.
What’s been your favourite gig you’ve done so far?
I had a blast singing at the Royal Albert with my quartet in July. A lot of friends and fellow musicians came down and joined us for a few tunes. The crowd was brilliant too.
How did you get involved with Down for the Count?
I started posting videos of myself singing standards I love on Instagram. Mike saw them and reached out to me. My first gig with the band was at Twinwood Festival.
You’ll be doing a few dates on the Swing Into Christmas tour! Any particular aspects you’re looking forward to?
I just can’t wait to sing my favorite Christmas tunes with an orchestra – it’s going to be magic!
What's you favourite song to perform?
For the past few months, a favourite of mine to call at gigs has been Vincent Youman’s More Than You Know.
Any other musical projects you’re involved with?
I’m working on my debut album – getting arrangements together and recording it in the new year. I’ve been arranging some duets with Sam Furlonger, who also sings with Down for the Count. We’re doing our first duet show this month in London.
What are your hobbies when not performing?
I often write poems and lyrics, read, walk around London’s parks, watch old movies, and catch others’ gigs.
About the author
Polis Loizou-Denyer is Down for the Count's marketing and communications officer. Though it's a long time since he played an instrument himself, he likes to keep creative with his own writing, performing, theatre making, filmmaking and oral storytelling.
