LOCAL ELECTION Q AND A - ROUND 1

The local elections are upon us again, with Hamiltronians off to the polls to vote for council in the wards of Hamilton East and Hamilton West, and also a new Mayor. All talk in the press is about water meters and parking meters, and while we’re sure they are valid discussions, we know HUP readers want to know the candidates a little better, particularly their music tastes, their knowledge of Hamilton music, and what ideas they have about helping musical talent come through the city in years to come.

We will publish the answers as they were written back to us by the candidates. Some are more detailed than others, and some show more passion and knowledge about (local) music than others. Read into it what you will. Either way the responses give us something of a glimpse into the personalities of the candidates. Sincere thanks to all candidates for taking the time to reply!
 
In this first article we feature the responses given by the first three mayoral candidates to respond - Paula Southgate, James R. Casson, and Rob Pascoe.
 
Q1. Have you attended much live music in Hamilton in your time? Any favourite memories? Any favourite Hamilton bands/artists?
 
PS: Yes, I enjoy live music. Have been to listen to a friend who plays in a Jazz Trio, have been to Opus Orchestra, Waikato Symphony Orchestra, Punjabi Cultural Festival (some amazing percussion!), State Highway 48 (Rock Opera) and 2 rock concerts at Claudelands (Jimmy Barnes and, Angels, Mi Sex and Dragon) in recent times, for example.
 
RP: Yes, often including musical shows, NZSO, travelling artists (all genres).
Recent memories include Bob Dylan, the Seekers, Sole3Mio, and Jimmy Barnes. 
 
JRC: Apart from the many bars and clubs where I have attended live music in Hamilton such as the “Datsuns”, I have also attended live music at the Founders.  One comes to mind the NZ Tour of the Th’ Dudes with Peter Urlich, 2006 Reunion Tour.  I have to admit I have attended more live music events in Auckland due to bigger bands/solo artists performing there (Kylie Minogue, Black Eyed Peas, Robbie Williams, Guns n Roses, Sebastian Bach and Rose tattoo)
 
Q2. Do you play a musical instrument and/or have you ever played in a band?
 
PS: Used to play the guitar (classical) and now sing in an Acapella Group for fun. I did once sing two songs at the Blues Club.
 
RP: No, but grandchildren do
 
JRC: I have never played in a band or a musical instrument apart from the “Recorder” at primary school sadly…
 
Q3. If elected, are there any things you would assist with, in terms of providing a more supportive infrastructure for nurturing a range of new musical talent in our city? (Radio/venues/practice spaces/recording facilities/grants/other) 
 
PS: I support the provision of community grants for music, culture and environment. I support HCC building a new theatre and promoting (making more accessible) Claudelands for musical events. I like the Mayor’s lunchtime concert idea and would like to see that extended to the outdoor environment. Don’t know enough of the detail around recording and practice space however, I support a community engagement forums where the community can explore their aspirations.
 
RP: Continued support for local talent in music and arts sector through Council funding through Creative Waikato. I have been an active member of the grants allocation committee for the last 3 years.
 
JRC: During the summer months, I would like to see HCC putting on live music performances (which would include plays) in Garden Place to attract families etc into town which would invigorate the CBD. This would be totally funded by HCC.  It could include supporting new acts and getting them out there in the public eye.  Everyone has to start somewhere, the biggest music stars came from such beginnings.
 
Q4. How do you listen to music these days - ipod/computer/vinyl/CD/cassette/other? 
 
PS: Mainly car radio and CD as I am so busy right now. Do also listen from my iPad using Spotify and other ways. I have a nice new Bluetooth speaker.
 
RP: CD/ipod/car radio
 
JRC: Mostly CD but with vinyl coming back I am glad I have kept some of my old albums.  The sound I think is better.  I watch a lot of MTV and the music vids on there.
 
Q5. What would be your favourite five albums or artists of all time?
 
PS: Queen, Elvis Costello, Andrew Lloyd Webber and right now George Ezra! I love anything I can sing along to, even in the car!
 
RP: Highway 61 Revisited - Bob Dylan, Leonard Cohen, Alice's Restaurant - Arlo Guthrie, Essential Pete Seeger, Fly My Pretties.

JRC:  Queen – A night at the Opera, Innuendo, Queens Greatest volumes 1 and 2, New Zealand Collection, Natures Best volumes 1 and 2, Th’ Dudes - Where are the Girls? Th’ Definitive Collection.

Thanks again to all candidates for their responses. More articles featuring the replies of other candidates will follow in the next few days!