Welcome to Dizzy and Fay! We’re looking forward to their performance on March 26 at the Aron Theatre Co-op!
We’ll let them introduce themselves via their website dizzyandfay.com:
Dizzy is Mark Lalama - singer/songwriter/pianist/producer, he has performed extensively and recorded/toured with countless artists including Guido Basso, Molly Johnson, Jackie Richardson, Marc Jordan, Chrissie Hynde, Olivia Newton John, Harry Manx, and many more.
Fay is Amanda Walther - Juno nominated singer-songwriter and award-winning composer from Toronto, Amanda has spent most of her career as half of acclaimed folk-roots duo Dala, and recently composing music for film.
And don’t forget to check out some tracks https://dizzyandfay.com/music after you buy your tickets!
And now to our exclusive Q&A--we asked Dizzy and Fay about their local connections, their love of performing, and their songwriting process.
HOW DID YOU GET STARTED WITH YOUR MUSICAL CAREER AND WHO ARE YOUR MUSICAL INFLUENCES?
DIZZY: My father was a classically trained clarinetist. He made sure all four sons took music lessons. Growing up, I listened to top 40 radio but also songs my father's weekend dance band played; tangos, salsa, polkas, waltzes, jazz standards, latin, and such. As I got older I continued listening to and playing a wide range of music from pop, country, jazz, fusion, soul, R&B.
FAY: I grew up in a musical family, with my father Dominic Walther (who lives here in town) at the center of it all. Singing was just what we did together, so it was natural to become a songwriter.
WHAT CAN PEOPLE EXPECT WHEN ATTENDING A DIZZY & FAY SHOW LIVE?
DIZZY: They can expect original songs and a spontaneous approach to the unique atmosphere of the venue and the community assembled. We tend to react to our surroundings and tailor our performances to the moment we find ourselves in.
FAY: Yeah, every show brings out new energy and life. We’re never quite sure how we will perform each song.
THE ARON STAGE IS KNOWN FOR ITS SOUND QUALITY, WHAT IS IT LIKE PLAYING AT DIFFERENT VENUES FROM A MUSICIAN'S PERSPECTIVE?
DIZZY: It's fantastic to experience such diverse stages and communities and audiences. So grateful for this.
FAY: I can’t wait to sing in the Aron! I’m sure it will inspire us in a whole new way.
YOU WRITE YOUR OWN SONGS - WHAT IS YOUR PROCESS LIKE?
DIZZY: The process can change dramatically; from starting with a word or two, to dreaming a whole chorus. Or hearing a few notes to hearing someone say something. It's all about inspiration and paying attention for me.
FAY: It’s a little different every time - when we write together we often send each other voice notes or melodic ideas that are sparked. What often happens is a back and forth, like tennis, where we keep building on each other’s ideas until the form of a song is there.
YOU'RE IN THE MIDDLE OF TOURING THIS AREA. WHAT DO YOU LIKE ABOUT PLAYING MUSIC IN TRENT HILLS AND ALSO IN MIXING LARGER CENTRES WITH SMALLER TOWNS? HOW DOES THIS AREA INSPIRE YOU AND YOUR MUSIC?
DIZZY: It's such a beautiful area and the people are so helpful and friendly. I instantly feel inspired and comfortable and want to involve them as much as possible in the performance.
FAY: I love Campbellford, and I have family in town so this show is extra special for me. The best thing about touring different places is the wonderful folks we get to meet along the way. Music is the ultimate connecter, and I’m grateful we get to see this beautiful country this way.
BUY TICKETS FOR DIZZY & FAY