Adria Godfrey
Adria Godfrey
Adria Godfrey is a Jersey based latin jazz singer. She is a natural performer with a beautiful voice and an innate ability to connect with the audience. Often found at Roberto’s Jazz Bar at the Savoy, she takes listeners back to her Latin musical origins. A big supporter of bringing jazz to the shores of Jersey and expanding the music scene, Music in Action asked Adria why music matters?
At what age did you start making music?
I started properly singing on stage with a jazz trio when I was 18 in Switzerland – before that I sang at home with school choirs and church choirs. I moved to London a few years later and formed a band whilst at university. London introduced me to the diversity of music available in such a multicultural city.
What do you love most about music?
Music is something very special. I love the fact it makes me feel free and able to express myself by telling a story. Finding the depth of feeling in the songs I interpret and having a connection and strong bond with the musicians I work with, connecting with the audience, are some of the greatest joys of singing for me.
Why does music matter to you?
Like any other art, it is a form of expression which needs to be “let out”. It transport us to places, and special moments in our lives.It’s such a fantastic thing. I’ve known so many people over the years who have found that music and dancing has changed them completely. For example there was someone who was widowed. She wasn’t musical at all and then she found this joy and her life was transformed happened to her. It was amazing.
Where are you from originally & what inspiration did you find in your current home in St John?
I was born in Barranquilla, The Caribbean coast of Colombia, where music and dance played a big part in my life. We have the second biggest carnival after Rio and training to take part in some of the carnival dances as well as singing with local ensembles as part of Choirs was something I’d look forward to every year.
Then coming to Jersey life changed as I became a mum. I joined the Big Band for a year and this introduced me to the music scene. With the concerts with Music in Action and also the JMS I saw what opportunities the children have. The chance to make and listen to music is something I am passionate about. My kids have been studying piano and jazz and to see the support that children have from a young age is nice
What is your favourite place on earth?
There couldn’t be just one favourite place on earth! I have several, so I cannot name just one, but right now Cartagena- Colombia , Ile Sur la Sorgue - Provence, Sorrento- Italy , Oporto- Portugal, Barcelona and Seville - Spain come to mind. Really special places! And of course here in Jersey. It could be anywhere because it all is so beautiful. If I want to go and walk then I love to look around St Aubins. I have too many favourite places.
Who is your favourite composer?
Again, there are a few names I can think of, but I’m going to say Thelonious Monk is right at the top. One of the first creators of modern jazz and bebop, his music is unique with a distinctive sense. He was one of the greatest jazz musicians of all times.
Which historical figure would you choose to have dinner with?
The Rat Pack and Carmen McRae!
What can we look forward to from you next?
Next year I I am hoping things are going to be more normal for us all as far as restrictions and music concerts are concerned. I’m hoping to continue featuring music in Jersey with my band and to perform in London and Europe.