As a solo artist, the band is constantly changing line-up, but to date has included musicians such as the living legend that is Mark Edwards on Piano, Andy Hamill and Tim Marchant on Double Bass, Matt Weeks, Dan Wheeler and Stuart Townend on Acoustic Guitars, Kev Jamieson on Electric Bass, Julian Ferraretto on Violin, Julian Nicholas on Whistle/Sax Calum Rees on Drums, Rebecca Mynett on harp and Naomi Price and Chloe Farkhas on BVs (But not all at the same time!)
Influences
According to Cross Rhythms I do "Acoustic-based folk/jazz/worship/pop/groove fusion" so that just about covers every base!
Below are some of the artists I like, although whether they all have a direct influence on the music I write is another matter entirely!
Folk: Capercaille, Kate Rusby, Cara Dillon, Steeleye Span, Seth Lakeman, Karine Polwart, Michael McGoldrick...
Others: Sting, Simon and Garfunkle, Eva Cassidy, Susan Vegas, Sara Groves, Phatfish, Brand New Heavies, Propellerheads, Coldplay, David Gray, Texas, Jamiroquai, John Mayer, Corrine Bailey Rae
I love Jazz and frequent Brighton Jazz club whenever I get a chance. I definately think that Jazz is best enjoyed live, but my CD collection includes: Miles Davis, Branford Marsallis, The Fabulous Sister Brothers, Ben Castle, Pat Metheny, Lleuwen Steffan, Jamie Cullum, Perfect Houseplants, Bobby Wellins, Stan Tracy, Scat...
I am part welsh and that influences me a lot - the land, the people, the stories, history and passion of the celts. I draw lyrically from my experience, my friends, this amazing world in which we live and the one who made it all!
Singer songwriter Olwen Ringrose was born and brought up in Hurstpierpoint, Sussex, England. The daughter of a flute teacher, music was a huge part of her childhood. She started piano at the age of five and has sung since before she can remember! She enjoyed a classical musical training, singing in choirs and playing violin in orchestras throughout her teenage years.
Going to university and being without a piano for the first time in her life, prompted her to teach herself guitar and she started writing songs. People seemed to like them, so she thought 'Hey, why not record them?' With a small amount of studio experience (well, one studio experience and a couple of 'home studio' experiences), she decided it was time to find a top notch producer and make a go of it.
So in 2004, Olwen linked with producer Mark Edwards and recorded a live set in Brighton - 'Live at the Chapel Royal'. Mark is well known in the British Jazz scene as a stunning pianist. He also works extensively as a producer and programmer, having worked with the likes of Carleen Anderson, Aztec Camera and Chris Rea. For her latest album, Mark brought in a host of outstanding musicians including guitarist Dan Wheeler (Cathy Burton), Bassist Andy Hamill (Played the German leg of Cara Dillon's tour this April and has played for Kylie Minogue), Saxophonist Julian Nicholas and Violinist Julian Fereretto.
In May 2006 Olwen Supported Gospel Singer, Kate Simmonds on tour.
Daughter Of The King "If you're looking for a record to put on to lighten up your day in a peaceful and graceful manner, then this is perfect. Everything about it is well executed. The songwriting, recording, playing, mixing, singing; it all smacks of anointing to me! There is a humility that seems to flow from the music that makes you respect Olwen even more. She has a lovely, slightly whispery voice that glides through the album leaving the listener in a calmed state. The album features bursts of Celtic music which is quite delightful... The flow of is natural and well thought through, it's never dull... All in all, I'd highly recommend this release to you." Dave Griffiths, Cross Rhythms
Live At The Chapel Royal "..her wistful tones convey an appealing mood of gentle retrospection... The 12 self-written songs here are strong on melody and lyrically simple expansions of biblical themes particularly Gods love and grace. All in all, beautifully executed."
Tony Cummings, Cross Rhythms Magazine
"...As unusual as it is to be wowed by an unsigned artist these days, Olwen's voice is nothing less than perfect. If she is this good live, then I can only envision great things from this artist in the studio".
Nick Rutter, Talking Music, 106.3 Hope FM
Olwen has been played on the It's A Frog's Life Acoustic Podcast Show 45 - PMN clearout . This show contains nine great acoustic artists from across the UK who can all be found on the Podsafe Music Network. Listen, support the artists, and help to keep music real.
To listen to the show follow the link above to the specific show or the link below to the shownotes page.
I hope you enjoy it, thanks for listening, and have a great 2008!
thanks olwen for the add! feel free to browse the blogs and message over your stories to be posted. It's all about making His name great. Nice work, btw - lovely voice too.
hey olwen!! im back in brighton on sunday!!! how fast has summer gone!! i cant beleive ive been in australia for 9 weeks how rediulous is that!!! im pumped for your gig will be awsome!! hows your summer been? gone anywhere to escape brighton life?! love x x x
Hi! I'm looking forward to seeing you and your family again! I guess Ruth Schmierer might preach in Dunkerque on Sunday, Oct 28th so... if you want to see our church in Lille you had better come the week before, as you already suggested... Not sure though, I'll let you know very soon! Talk soon!
hey olwen! How's it going? if you're around at conference time then I'll see ya real soon x I'm staying with fiona. Can you tell her to PLEASE check her myspace (or at least reply to my comments!!!). Take care!
CONGRATULATIONS on the birth of ellis! he is absolutely beautiful ~ i wish i could be there to give me a big kiss and cuddle and buy lots of teeny tiny clothes for him! mum said you look fabulous as always and extra cute with your little one!
hope everything is going really well, love nim x x x
