A coastal genre, Canadian folk music commonly conjures up wistful images of swinging lanterns above cabin doors, roaring fireplaces on cold, foggy nights, and wood-panelled, local pubs filled with eager ears as quiet and soulful musicians take the stage. Upon listening to Vancouver Islander-Emma Beaton’s recent self-titled duo album, an era of simplicity and inherent hopefulness integrates these images with every chord.

Canadian Folk Music Award-winning singer, song-writer and cellist, this determined and vivacious 20-year old has been rapidly making a name for herself in the folk genre with both her solo work and as lead vocalist for the five-piece band Joy Kills Sorrow. With a captivating voice and miles of charisma in tow, Beaton is currently performing abroad on a multi-week Euro-tour with the band, in promotion of their 2009 album ‘Darkness Sure Becomes This City’. We had the wonderful opportunity to chat with Beaton in Montreal about the folk music industry, her unparalleled drive and, coffee.  
 
Thanks for sitting down with us! Have you had a chance to explore the Montreal music scene since your arrival?

Thank you for having me! Unfortunately, I have not yet – though I do know a number of excellent Québécois musicians in the area that I’ve met at festivals across North America. Also, one of my main music teachers, cellist Natalie Haas, happens to now live in Montreal. [The city] feels very young and happening.  I always have a great time when I visit! 
 
You relocated to Boston from British Columbia to attend the Berklee College of Music. How important is formal training for young musicians? Has it given you an edge in the industry?

I did attend Berklee – however, I actually left after one year. Music school wasn’t really for me, plain and simple. There is no doubt that one improves their skills and knowledge of music theory with formal training, and one can make great connections in the industry while attending music school – yet, I believe it is not necessary to the profession. You do not need a degree to perform on a stage. While there are plenty of outstanding musicians who do not have the organizational or business skills to be self-employed, there are plenty of musicians who have landed themselves good gigs because they have developed the skills to get themselves there.  It largely depends on the individual.

With that said, what advice can you offer female Canadian musicians trying to gain a career and an audience in folk music?

Take charge of your own career. Most folk musicians are self-employed. I’m definitely the type of person that prefers to do things myself; I prefer to be fully aware of how to do everything, so I’m capable if a need ever arises. I advise every folk musician to learn how to book a show, how to write a press release, how to make and sell a record – hell, learn how to put a band together!  Every musician should learn how to be his or her own business.

Who are the truly inspirational individuals in your life at the moment?

My parents have always inspired me with their accomplishments – emigrating from Scotland to North America and raising five children, all while getting an education and working demanding jobs. The individuals who inspire me the most are those who take charge of their lives and pursue what they love.

What are your hopes for Joy Kills Sorrow’s European tour?

I sure hope people come out to our shows! Of course, I’d love to see a lot of young people interested in our music. The folk music audience has been, and continues to be dominated by adults – yet, things are changing and young people are coming around and realizing folk music can also be ‘cool’.

We see that you’ve pioneered a wonderful traveling-musician coffee shop blog – overall impression of Montreal’s caffeine scene?

I am very impressed by http://www.cafemyriade.com Café Myriade’s selection. Yet, overall, I find that in Montreal there’s not quite as much focus on quality espresso beverages. Rather, the focus is on the act of being at a coffee shop and lookin’ cool [wink] – which is perfectly alright! (Visit her blog Road Espresso!)

On a final note, have you made a New Year’s resolution?

Have I ever! My eternal New Year’s resolution is to exercise more often. We’ll see if that actually happens this year!

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A selection of Emma Beaton’s solo work.

More information about Joy Kills Sorrow.

~ Tyler Yank