Welcome to the very first episode of our brand-new podcast series’ The Notes Between’ with Lara Eidi. Conversations exploring everything behind and about the world of songwriting! Our theme music ‘Opened Eyes’ is from Lara Eidi herself available here

In this first episode, Lara talks to songwriter Liv Monaghan. Available on Spotify Apple and Anchor

Liv Monaghan is a vocalist and songwriter based in Paris. Producer and story-teller with two studio albums of compositions released between 2016 and 2018 and another on the way. ‘My music pulls threads from Jazz, Soul, Rock, and Romanticism to create an alternative, sometimes experimental, often poetic and always original sound’. Lover of the left-behind, of old things of letter-notes and half-light ghosts which get stitched, strung or typed back up together to make something new.

Liv Monaghan website

Lara Eidi is an artist that thrives on being different.  Born in Athens Lebanese- Canadian parents, her entire life and career is that of a  singer-songwriter , multidisciplinary artist, educator and writer. Undefined by style, Lara’s music has earned her own unique place in the music world as a storyteller, jazz and folk singer, composer and recording artist heard at venues in London including the Barbican, St Martins in the Fields, Green Note, Edinburgh Festival, Beirut International Festival to name a few. Born in Athens to Lebanese-Canadian parents, her music has gained her critical acclaim as an artist with a truly unique voice (BBC Artist, 2020- 2021), who manages to shift between musical styles and vocations owed to her diverse background as a singer ( Guildhall School of Music and Drama ); writer ( English Literature from the University of St. Andrews) and educator. Lara's passion and artistry comes from a pure and authentic drive to connect with audience members as well as students, creating a space where the healing power of music can be felt by all.  Recently supported by Hawkwood College and the Francis W Reckitt Arts Trust, Lara is set to record her new album in Spring 2023, and has just launched her very first podcast on songwriting 'The Notes Between' with Women in Jazz Media.  Finally, her passion for music as a life choice has led her to become an in demand educator, offering workshops at leading music institutions as well as community spaces in Europe. 

"Lara Eidi is one of those singers who connects with the audience as soon as she starts to sing. Perhaps psychologists can explain the gift – and it is a gift "Sandy Brown Jazz- London

Lara Eidi website

The world of jazz (and music) journalism is a competitive struggle at times, particularly for women looking to break the mould and find a name for themselves in a historically male-dominated industry. Despite this, there are plenty of women who have successfully navigated their writing and journalistic careers, embarking on different paths and timelines to get where they want to be. Women in Jazz Media have been exploring the stories and experiences of several female music writers, who have been transforming perceptions in the music industry one word at a time, including Jane Cornwell, Hilary Robertson, Sandra Booker, Jordannah Elizabeth, Lara Eidi, Fiona Ross and many more. These interviews aim to uncover the wonders and challenges of being a writer, hopefully inspiring many young women to follow their own writing ambitions!

To start off the series, written by Isabel Marquez and published on Jazz in Europe, we’ve spoken to the incredible Paulette Jackson. A published author, the founder and CEO of Jazz Zone Radio, and host of ‘The Classic Soul Music Café’ radio show, Paulette Jackson has built her incredible career from a love of songwriting and storytelling.

Behind the Pen: A Writer’s Journey with Paulette Jackson

UK saxophonist, vocalist, composer and Women in Jazz Media team member Kim Cypher presents ‘Brighter Tomorrow’ – A Tribute to The Arts.

A wonderful collaborative celebration of amazing creative people who demonstrate incredible passion, drive, determination and dedication to their Art, ultimately contributing to our #brightertomorrowforthearts

Click here to view the magazine

Kim Cypher:

“I have never felt more pride being a musician than I do right now. Choosing to work in The Arts is a labour of love. When creativity is in your heart and soul, there is no other path in life that offers comparable fulfilment and reward. The sense of unity and joy of connection and communication with an audience is a truly beautiful thing.

When COVID-19 hit the world, taking all of this away so unexpectedly and brutally, The Arts experienced an overwhelming sense of loss and sadness. Initial numbness and shock led to grief and despair as our identity and purpose in life vanished overnight.

 But, driven by creativity, passion, commitment, compassion, willpower and sheer determination, The Arts kicked back into action big-time with a united effort and dedication to ensure ‘The show must go on!’

Finding and adapting to new ways, performances and creativity continued, maintaining morale, keeping people connected, providing positive support and company for those feeling isolated and alone as well as channelling emotions into new creative projects.

So many unsung heroes dedicated and devoted to their work, a real sanctuary of positivity. It fills me with such joy and pride to be part of an amazing, caring community, which has led me to this project –

‘Brighter Tomorrow’ – A Tribute to The Arts and a celebration of like-minded creatives.”

The project features:

New original music by Kim Cypher, born out of lockdown including a ‘live’ track and video with one of the UK’s greatest jazz performers Liane Carroll at London’s 606 Club; ‘Live’ project launch at Crazy Coqs, Zédel, London; Plus, the whole project is consolidated into an online magazine supported by Women in Jazz Media with a wonderful portfolio of photography and a vast collection of work by musicians, venues, performers and artists in celebration of the amazing, creative people who contribute to a BRIGHTER TOMORROW for The Arts. The magazine explains the background behind the project and brings everything together including a celebration of venues and live performances plus special thanks and recognition to some amazing creative people who have left a lasting impression on Kim’s life and who ultimately, inspired Kim to lead her very best life.

A project driven by absolute pride in The Arts and a commitment to celebrate EVERYONE who is contributing to our #brightertomorrowforthearts