Kick start to a musical career for Ella

An amazing day out for Ella Barwick led to her writing a song that saw her named as a finalist in the 2017 Lion Foundation Songwriting competition.

The Pukekohe High School student’s prize was a recording anywhere in the country, which she was thrilled to win.

‘‘I’m really excited, it’s a really good opportunity for me, it’s also a good new chapter in my music life, and going towards my singersongwriter dream.’’

She wrote earlier this year and it was judged in August.

‘‘It was inspired by a time on the last day of the school holidays, where Mum and I and the dog went to the beach and it was a perfect day, the sky was blue, and the water was sparkling.

‘‘I like how every time I sing it and play it, I go back into that moment.’’

When writing her songs she takes inspiration from musicians including Jack Johnson, Midnight Oil, Foo Fighters and Ella Fitzgerald.

‘‘I have lots of time out in my little bubble, writing songs and getting my creative side into words and onto a page and then with my guitar.

‘‘It just happens at random moments, it’s like a lightbulb. I just grab anything, origami paper, scrap paper, and scribble it down as fast as I can, so I don’t forget it.

‘‘That’s one of the best things about song writing, it’s an exciting flow of musical energy.

‘‘I mostly write songs for my own expression.’’

She said being named a finalist has topped off her best year yet.

‘‘My first songs were very simple and short.

‘‘I’ve definitely improved over the year, and this is my most improved year, even compared to last year.

‘‘I’ve written more songs than I’ve ever done this year.

Ella, 15, said music runs in her blood, as her parents are both talented musicians.

The teenager first picked up a guitar when she was eight-yearsold, and now also plays the electric bass, percussion in a wind band, suspended symbol, bass in a concert band and drums.

A self-confessed shy person, she said there was nothing like performing on stage.

‘‘I feel more myself when I’m performing my music, I feel comfortable on stage. I feel excited to perform and share my music.’’