Interview with Singer/Songwriter Connie Deming

He dreams of a day when free friends come,

Not just the ones who are told.

He beams like the rays of a rising sun,

When somebody hears his soul.

But that sort of thing isn’t taught in school

It’s never been found in the charts, the records, the data, the terms, the rules;

That no one would find in a heart

Of a beautiful boy with a blessed smile

Who sees more than we’ll ever know.

How do you hear when a heart says yes,

If the deeds only manage a no?

(Lyrics from “Shine,” by Connie Deming)

Connie Deming is one of Rochester’s treasures and part of what makes living in this beautiful city so special. A singer, songwriter, author & autism activist, she will be one of New Moon’s special guests at the 2010 Expo.

Born into a musical family, Connie began performing in high school and started writing songs when her son was born in 1985. His gifts and struggles with autism became the inspiration for her fourth recording of original songs in 2004, “Flights of Fancy.”

I had the pleasure of learning more about Connie in an interview she was kind enough to grant:

1. What is the process of writing / composing new songs like for you? Do you set aside time to write, or is it more spontaneous? What sort of energy is involved when you’re creating them?

It starts when there’s a burst of inspiration – an event, a feeling, a need, a hurt, an image – which gnaws at me. Getting it down right away is the trick, especially these days with memory loss’s big old eraser in the way! Then, just trusting that it’ll come together…not letting interruptions keep me from finishing the song, even if it takes a few days.

Spring, Fall, Christmastime seem to be the most energy-charged times for me; late afternoon, twilight, evening usually feel best. Writing appointments only offer an occasional surprise…so far, it’s the inspired moment for me.

2. Out of all the songs you’ve written and recorded, could you pick a favorite? If yes, what makes it your favorite?

My favorite is usually the one I’m working on right now. Or that sweet moment at a show when someone asks for their favorite – always a welcome surprise that takes the song out of my dusty old folder and lets me hear it in a fresh new voice.

Of the songs I’ve recorded, I’m remembering one right now that came together with a nice fluidity, demanded some new changes for me to find on the guitar, took off on an interesting little wordless vocal bridge, and actually flowed easily in the studio – it’s called Singing.

3. You write beautifully emotive lyrics. If you could write songs for any musician in the world to record today, who would it be and why?

The lyrics come often as a way to heal myself somehow, or capture an inspiration. Then when I have some quiet time at home with the guitar or piano, I’ll listen for the music, which is sometimes a challenge with the accompaniment, since I feel much more natural as a singer than a player.

I was thinking how fun it would be to get to hear a male artist perform one of my songs! Someone like Vince Gill, Don Potter, Keith Urban, who just play so very well. They’re all exciting singers, too. I’m actually working on a couple of songs now which might even sing nicely in a man’s voice…

4. I’ve heard some great songs on the radio, for which you collaborated. What has been your most memorable experience either writing, playing, or recording with others?

I’ve always loved singing/writing harmonies…it’s great fun to be invited in on others’ recording projects or shows. There’s a slew of talented musicians in Rochester.

It was a particular kick with Jeff Riales this year. He’s quite an exacting, reserved artist, so to see the excitement burst onto his face that day in his recording studio when he heard these harmonies for the first time — that was a memorable moment!

Recording with Steve Piper, a wonderful local guitarist, provided many sweet moments, too, while working on my own project, Touchstones… There’s nothing better than that synergy when it happens. It’s a miracle and a privilege.

Connie, thank you so much for your time, and thank you for being part of this year’s Expo!

To learn more about Connie Deming, or to hear some of her music, please visit her web site by clicking here.