Bridging Distance through Music: Virtual Collaboration Finally Hits the Stage

As a music lover, singer, and songwriter, my journey over the past few years has been a testament to the power of virtual collaboration. In a world where distance and lockdowns became the norm, I went from performing and working on music with others on a regular basis, to suddenly having to adjust to making music in isolation. The fact that my musical connection with Will Harrison not only survived but thrived remotely was incredibly important to me, and resulted in a remarkable journey from virtual partnership, to live gig; releasing songs such as ‘Send in the Fireflies’, ‘Stone and the Chalk’ and ‘A Chance to Miss You’ along the way!

After a chance meeting at university, we decided we wanted to put all that talk about making music into action… but then the world closed down due to the pandemic. So we had to begin our musical journey in a digital realm, where we tried to interpret and build on each others creative visions despite being miles apart. The constraints of physical distance and external circumstances, like lockdowns, couldn’t deter our shared ambition to craft soul-stirring melodies. Through virtual sessions, we managed to create music that resonated with us and that has also resonated with our listeners too!

With each digital interaction, we discovered that music knows no geographical limitations. The creative process flourished as we exchanged ideas, melodies, and lyrics through the digital waves, piecing together tracks that told our unique story.

The anticipation built as we channelled our efforts into releasing our creations to the world. The moment of truth arrived with the release of our first songs, and the overwhelming support we received from friends, family, and music enthusiasts was truly heartening.

Finally, the long-awaited day arrived – the day we had eagerly anticipated: the chance to perform live together at Katzpace, a renowned hub for new music. Nestled underground within Katzenjammers in London, just moments away from the Southbank and Borough Market, this intimate venue was the perfect place to connect with the listeners who stood by us during the challenging times when all live music had come to a halt.

Stepping onto that stage, side by side as artists and as friends, was a culmination of years of writing sessions, practice, rewritten songs and lyrics, and patience. The energy in the air was electric, as familiar faces in the audience sang along to the tunes they had come to love. The emotional connection we felt with the crowd was unparalleled, a realisation that the bonds we had forged virtually had translated seamlessly into the physical world.

As we performed directly to those who had supported us since our first releases, it was a surreal moment of unity. The power of music to bring people together was vividly evident, as the melodies we had crafted apart now united us with our audience in a shared experience of emotion and joy.

So, hopefully first of many more to come.

Hope to see you at a gig soon – lots of love, Hannah x

*A heartfelt shoutout goes to the talented host at Katzpace, Bebe Barry, for her ongoing and unwavering support – thanks for having us!