Australia-based violinist Gisele Scales describes her sound as colorful, happy, inspiring, electro rock pop. Her brand of genre-defying electric violin dance music will not only move your body, it will also challenge your mind. She tackles serious issues such as global warming and world peace in songs such as Green and Can U Love 1 Another. Her breathy vocals are the aural glue that connects the physical to the mental.
Gisele always knew she wanted to pursue music as a career, but her mother and father weren’t enthusiastic about her choice. To please her parents, Gisele studied French, Italian and German Language & Literature at Sydney University; however, she kept her musical dreams alive by playing in the Music department orchestra. After graduation, Gisele decided to seek out music related jobs – session musician, live performer, broadcaster – anything that would pay the bills.
After many years of paying dues, Gisele found some success in Europe as a member of the London-based group Vega. That success encouraged her to pursue a solo career. Her diligence has resulted in a unique style that connects with listeners on all levels.
Six String Theories: What was your biggest break in the industry?
Gisele: My biggest break was when I was a member of Vega. Our second single Mother Egypt went to No.1 in Switzerland, France and Greece. That was a wonderful achievement for a new band. The violin work I did with that group has been a great prelude to what I now do as a solo artist.
Six String Theories: Why the violin?
Gisele: That’s a really good question. I’ve been asking myself that question ever since I chose the violin. Or maybe it chose me. As a child, I was consumed with the desire to play the violin. It seems to be strange choice because I love rock, pop, soul, R&B and electro music and violins aren’t essential in these types of styles. If I had decided to play the guitar, I would have had a much easier time getting work. But I think the violin adds a little something extra to the music. It’s like the icing on the cake. I recorded this solo album to prove that violin could be used as one of the main voices in funky, soulful music.
Six String Theories: Describe your experience writing and recording your latest project.
Gisele: My album 2 Think was recorded over a period of maybe 6 months. I had a few songs already worked out for an EP, but after recording those first 4 tracks, I had an incredible outpouring of creativity, and decided to make it a full-length album. I couldn’t sleep at night because new ideas kept waking me up. It was just so exciting recording this album. I’m proud to be able to use my violin to spread a message of respect, peace, love and harmony.
Six String Theories: How do you approach your songwriting?
Gisele: I really don’t know. Ideas for songs usually take me by surprise and I have to be ready to capture them when they pop up. When an idea for a lyric or melody comes unexpectedly, I try to scribble it down somewhere; often on paper napkins or tiny scraps of paper. It’s amazing how those little scraps of paper will lead to a song I’m really happy with. I also have a more structured approach to songwriting. Sometimes I just sit down, take out the violin, and write a song because there’s a deadline. Both ways seem to work well for me.
Six String Theories: How often do you tour and what is that experience like?
Gisele: Touring is a wonderful way to meet the people who dig my sound. As an independent artist, I don’t tour as much as I would like to because it takes a lot of organization and coordination with others to set it up properly. When I do get a chance to hit the road, it’s a blast. Of course touring takes time away from my family so I have to balance work and life. I try not to let touring make me miss my son’s gigs.
Six String Theories: Tell me about the first time you performed in front of an audience?
Gisele: My first ever performance was in a church musical when I was six years old. We had to file into church while singing and holding candles. That performance was what ignited my passion. I continued to perform throughout my childhood, either singing harmonies with my two sisters, or playing violin in orchestras, but it was music with a groove that really got me hooked.
Six String Theories: How have you managed to navigate all of the changes in the music industry?
Gisele: It’s tough right now in the music industry; however, it always was. Before being able to record independently, artists were totally reliant on big labels with big publicity budgets. Now artists can directly reach listeners and build a following through the internet. I use social media to promote my music. It’s the best promotional tool I have. That’s where I’ve found so many of my fans. Of course, it takes much longer to find your audience, but it’s much more rewarding and personal.
Six String Theories: What advice would you give artists trying to break into the industry?
Gisele: Make sure you’re always enjoying your music. Don’t let the disappointments get you down. Always believe in yourself and in your original voice. Have some other income, and make it music related if at all possible. Social network like crazy. Gig like crazy. Get to know your fans like your best friends. There can be no performance without an audience. So to all my fans – thank you for completing the equation, or the circle. May it be forever unbroken. I LOVE YOU ALL!!!
Peace & Blessings
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