Teacher Taylor is a singer, songwriter, composer, multi-instrumentalist, and producer who works with many Greensleeves students on a variety of instruments and vocals. Taylor joined Teamsleeves in 2019. She utilizes her broad talents to help students of all levels and interests discover and explore myriad styles and avenues of music.
Taylor has a classical background, which informs her contemporary sound. She’s a theatrical chameleon, performing in her music videos and sharing incredible pop covers on her social channels.
After a 2020 break from the stage, Taylor’s not skipping a beat as she returns to performing while continuing her many musical projects. She recently took part in the Piano in the Plaza event in downtown West Chester, organized by her student Grace, where she played many stirring and gorgeous songs.
We asked Taylor some questions about her musical life --- interview below!
What are you up to this summer?
This summer has already been jam packed with so much musical activity! Much needed after taking a long performing break due to COVID. I’ve recently released a single “End of the Line” (which can be found on all streaming services), which I produced myself in my home studio. I also just finished up a vocal competition where I placed in the Top 10 singers in the area. It was a ton of fun to be back on stage again! More locally, I’ve been gigging around the area at bars, breweries and restaurants. Also, I’m in the process of finishing up my first full length studio album which will be released at the end of this year or early 2022! Lots of really exciting things happening and I couldn’t be more thrilled to be back in action!
Who are some of your favorite musicians and musical inspirations?
Growing up I was a big fan of Ingrid Michaelson, Laura Marling and Sara Bareilles. All masterful storytellers and their lyrics and melodies always really connected with me. I did a lot of musical theatre and then studied classically in college, so I am really drawn to the drama of those genres. I often get told my music can sometimes have veins of musical theatre in them! Classically, my biggest inspirations are Chopin and Debussy, and I’m very drawn to film composers such as John Williams, Howard Shore and Danny Elfman.
What beliefs do you have about music?
I think my strongest belief is that music is a tool for connecting deeper than words can. I also really believe music is for anyone and everyone, and you don’t need to be born with a “talent” for it! It’s something that brings us all together, and a language every person can speak!
What are your musical goals?
My upcoming goal is to actually get certified in music production and start producing for other people! To continue learning this field and improving while I produce some of my own music, as well! And then of course to finish and release my album which has been in the works for nearly 3 years now!
What do you like about teaching music?
Teaching music is such a joy. I love watching my students find that passion, or conquer a difficult song, or overall just grow as a musician. No matter their age, it’s a common tongue that we speak together, and I love being able to help them speak it on their own!
What else?
If anyone wants to listen to my music- check it out on my website! www.TaylorAsh.com
Here is a music video link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ow4nvvrA-qc
