| Reel Focus

Her look is described by some as a young Kate Bush and her sound a little like Katie Melua and Sarah McLachlan but her songs are her own. Straight from the heart, they are praised by Brent Hansen, MTV Europe boss as melodic, catchy a
nd very well written. Music legend Gray Bartlett decribes her music as "sensational - what an incredible talent, the best I've heard in years" . For the Christchurch music teacher, launching her debut album is a dream come true and the result or many years honing her skills as a musician and singer, having been in big demand as a wedding and funeral singer. Right from age four when she took up piano, she has impressed with her ability as a performer and musician. "If I were to give this CD a descriptive title then it would be 'Thirteen Conversations', for I use song writing as a vehicle for communication," explains the petite beauty. "When I am lost for words music helps me find my tongue. This best explains why I am a prolific songwriter." "Many people have asked me about my songs, 'What comes first - the melody or the lyrics?' My answer is 'neither - they occur simultaneously'. It is as if songs surround me, they float through the air like dandelion spores and all I have to do is tenderly reach up and take one, breathe upon it, then let it go again." Industry veteran Gray Bartlett says Debbie has all the makings of a pop star. And he should know. He put Hayley Westenra and Yulia on the path to international stardom and sees Debbie Maples as in that same arena. Debbie has studied piano from age four (and violin from age eleven), completing major teaching and performing qualifications in piano through both the Royal and Trinity Colleges London. By 17 she obtained her ATCL (in performance) and has established a music teaching practise that caters for a wide spectrum of ages and abilities. In addition, from age 13 she competed in the Christchurch Music Competitions, consistently receiving first and second placings. While studying music (including composition) at the University of Canterbury, she was hand-selected to become Australasia's top piano teacher Maurice Till's protege.
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