February 7, 2011 - 1:21am
2011 has started off on a strong note—make that several strong notes—for Vancouver Island University music student Sydney Needham.
The Victoria-raised singer took first place in the recent Victoria Idol competition held at the 1,400-seat Royal Theatre. Later in January, she performed as part of the Needham Wigmore Band in Victoria at Hermann’s Jazz Club, a popular venue where the 21-year-old had frequently gone to hear many of her favourite musicians.
She has also been busy with gigs at hot spots such as the Garage in Duncan and in Nanaimo’s Acme Food Co. and Cambie Hotel.
“I hope to always be performing,” says the second-year student who adds that she would be thrilled, “if I could just have a band and sing in front of that band for the rest of my life.”
Needham took first place at this year’s Victoria Idol over 11 other contestants with her versions of Etta James’ I’d Rather Go Blind and China Grove by the Doobie Brothers.
It was her third entry to the talent competition and she values the experience. Her first time, when she was 16, was an eye-opener as she got a sense of what she could do as a performer. Her second entry had an element of sibling rivalry with her brother Spencer taking top spot while she placed third. Needham found her confidence grow with each competition.
“It wasn’t as scary the second time. This time it was just fun,” she says.
Needham benefitted from strong music programs at Dunsmuir Middle School and Belmont Secondary School in Victoria. Her music teachers recommended Needham pursue post-secondary education and gave high marks to VIU’s jazz studies.
“My teachers really encouraged me to come here because it’s really a great program,” says Needham.
She is happy with her choice, pointing out that the Nanaimo campus is close to home and she already knew friends who were enrolled at VIU.
“The faculty is really good,” she adds. “There’s a relaxed atmosphere and if you are playing gigs, to me the faculty are your peers as well as your teachers. You are all working toward the same thing, working to improve your music.”
VIU Music professor Dr. Alex Tsisserev says Needham has a rare combination of an effortless and engaging sound. “As a vocalist, Sydney is sensational. Having worked with her, I think she has infinite potential.”
Needham’s musical influences include Ella Fitzgerald and Billie Holiday as well as West Coast singers Emily Braden and Louise Rose.
“I’ve taken four workshops with Louise Rose and sung in a couple of her gospel choirs. She has really impacted my music, my life,” says Needham.
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For a sampling of Sydney Needham’s music, visit:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vrkcT_UZ7_M
Tags: In the Community
