ABOUT
Past
Music has always been a large part of Helen's life. She started as a classical musician, playing the flute at a national level and reaching the quarter finals of UK's Young Musician of the Year. So, apart from briefly singing in a band called Action Man Not Included (don't ask), Helen spent most of her time playing classical music. But it was her move to Middlesex University, London, UK where she was able to expand into the world of popular music.
"As an artist, she works hard to create songs that speak to and inspire others. She has also dedicated much of her time to supporting and encouraging other songwriters." - CV Arts and Culture Awards Ceremony
Helen spent 20 years performing as a musical stand-up comedian, regularly headlining the Comedy Store in London, the most prestigious comedy club in Europe. But throughout her comedy career Helen wrote and sung original compositions on the side and spent a couple of years fronting a band, Smithers, playing venues in London such as The Dublin Castle and Dingwalls, Camden and recording their album, Release Candidate One. But it was her move to Vancouver Island in Canada where she was finally able to make it her main focus.
Present
“Her ability to bring new, original songs right to the heart of her listeners has inspired many. She keeps us wanting more!”
Kisa Macdonald
Comox Valley Community Arts Council.
Since her move in 2002, Helen is a regular at Vancouver Island Musicfest, she hosts a songwriter's circle, which she won an innovation award for and her music is often featured on CBC radio and CHLY 101.7 as well as many internet radio stations.
"Smart, eclectic, unique, catchy, inspired, and simply wonderful. The music was Impressive! Brilliantly arranged! Brilliantly delivered!”
BBS radio
Future
Helen's career is taking a new direction once again and she is dedicating her time to writing, collaborating and recording in a push to getting her songs placed in TV/film. Please click on News to find out how she is doing.
Side Projects
Relay
Helen was asked to write a song for The Relay for Life, which is available on a CD to raise money for the Canadian Cancer Society. Click here to buy.
Comox Valley Songwriter's Circle
Helen founded and hosts The Comox Valley Songwriters Circle on the first Wednesday of each month at the Muir Gallery, Courtenay.
In Voices Three Helen is joined by Sue Pyper and Judy Wing, along with Bruce Wing on bass. Their annual concert raises money and awareness for Hospice as well as performing at other events and festivals.
Helen has recently returned to her classical roots and is a playing the flute as well as taking on the role of president for the Strathcona Symphony Orchestra.
Talented professional photographers across BC are giving their services to help families shine a light on their relationships and bonds at a time when their lives are turned upside down by struggle. Helen wrote the song that appears on the website and also accompanies the slideshows for the families.
Helen is one of three singers that front this 12 piece R&B, soul, disco band. They have played Merrit Mountain Festival, supported Tom Cochrane and play at many fundrasing events.
Follow Helen on Twitter and Facebook
All photographs by McKinnonphotography.com