‘Leaving it all on the stage’
Songwriter’s circle set to showcase local talent this weekend
Local artists are eager to share their music with the world — and that’s what the Songwriters Circle with Sherman Downey aims to achieve.
Corner Brook’s Noah Hamilton is one of the musicians taking part in this year’s CB Songwriter’s Circle with Sherman Downey. Hamilton has had an interest in music since he was a child.
“I was lucky enough to be born and raised in Corner Brook, where young people are encouraged to express themselves through music and art. I was a sponge and, fortunately for me, there was always a lot to soak in. So, a lot of my interest in music comes from the family, friends and mentors who made me the musician and human I am today.”
Growing up with a musician for a father, it may not be a surprise this is the path Hamilton chose.
“When I was a young boy, I’d watch him play on stages around town and I’d literally be looking up to him. Call it fate, call it genetics, I just knew I wanted more than anything to follow in his footsteps,” said Hamilton. “At 21, I can’t believe I’m living out the dream of that young boy.”
This year, Hamilton decided to pursue music in a professional sense.
“I’ve been active in the local music scene long before that, but until this year I’d just play whenever people asked me to,” said Hamilton. “A lot of great experiences came from that, but the real experience of a professional musician is the chase, the business side.”
Hamilton added, “I’ve put the effort in to perform as much as possible and it’s been busy but that’s how I like it … The highlight of all the unforgettable shows I’ve been a part of in 2023 was at Writers at Woody Point. It was unreal playing a festival that has featured some of my personal heroes.”
Through Hamilton’s work with 62 Broadway, he was asked to be part of this year’s CB Songwriters Circle.
“People know me as a piano player but not a songwriter. I’ve kept that mostly a secret. This event is the perfect opportunity to come out into the light and showcase my songs and the stories behind them.
“Songwriter’s circles are so special because you’re getting three or four shows in one. Each songwriter gets a part of the night and you’ll be totally mesmerized as they take turns leaving it all on the stage. As an audience member, I’ve geeked out seeing my favourite local artists onstage and I’ll be pinching myself all night sitting next to Sherman, Louise and Aley; three good as gold humans who are as captivating sharing the story of their songs as they are performing them.”
Hamilton said he is looking forward to the intimacy of the upcoming songwriter’s circle.
“We just want to be heard. The restaurant and bar gigs, the cover shows, the corporate events, I love it all. But you can’t beat the connection to an audience who is truly listening to your songs, and there’s no crowd as attentive as one at a songwriter’s circle. When you are invested in our art, we get more out of it than you do. There’s a uniqueness and personal connection you make with local musicians that you’ll never feel with superstars.”
Recognizing it’s harder than ever now to afford even the basics, Hamilton wants to thank those who support local talent.
“I understand everyone can’t go to a show every night and buy all the merch,” said Hamilton, “but I see a lot of people my age save money for months to go to a big festival on the mainland with A list Canadian talent when they could support local talent every week in their hometown for way less. The local music scene here has so much to give. I’d encourage everyone to take (a look at) what they’re offering.”
“Tickets to Taylor Swift’s recent tour stop in Toronto cost between $250 and $1,500. Compare that to five to 10 bucks cover at a bar for your awesome local band or $25 at the RAC ... if you value entertainment in your life and can afford it, I’d encourage you to support the local artists who are also struggling in this economy, who need it and appreciate you.”
This year’s CB Songwriter’s Circle with Sherman Downey will take place Friday, Sept. 29, from 8 to 10 p.m. at the Rotary Arts Centre. Tickets are available online through Eventbrite.