The stats:
– Alex Varey
– Age 21
– Degree: 3rd year English Literature and History (joint major)
– Musician and Actor
So Alex, what do you do that’s extra on campus?
I’m a really keen member of LUTG- Lancaster University Theatre Group, but I’m taking the term off to rehearse with a theatre company in town, who are putting on The Taming of the Shrew. I also play various gigs (singing and playing the guitar) around the campus; in bars, with Live at LICA and other campus events.
You sound very busy on campus! What about Lancaster town centre?
Well, I tend to busk a lot, it’s a great earner, plus I give 25% of what I make to charity- either local people collecting for charity or put it towards my monthly Oxfam donation. I also host a weekly open mic night at Dalton Rooms on Thursdays, it starts at 10- and there’s a free pint if you play! Go on, you know you want to!
Hmm, I think I’ll leave that to you!
I also do the odd gig at 1725; the atmosphere’s always great in there.
How did you get into your music?
Mainly through family influences. My uncle’s a great musician and my Dad has brought me up to love music like he does. It’s kind of sentimental I guess, but I love music that reminds me of where I’m from (Yorkshire). I had guitar lessons at school, and some after school, from a guy in a local band. To be honest, I always loved it but have only really got into it more recently because of being at uni. The accessible gigs at campus bars are great for any new performer, and I’ve really grown in confidence with my music.
Is it something you see yourself doing in the future?
Absolutely, yes.
What sort of style of music do you play?
I do a lot of covers and mash ups of songs, but I’m starting to write some of my own stuff. It’s acoustic, country, folk-y in style. You could compare it to Deacon Blue, or Chris Rea. Or more currently, I suppose it’s more like Jason Mraz, Jack Johnson, or Mumford and Sons.
Where might we recognise you from?
I’ve played at Bowland Christmas Ball, Fylde Extrav, Campus Fest, a variety of campus bars, Live at LICA events. You may also know me from the odd busk!
And what’s next for you?
I’ll be staying in Lancaster for another year and working on my music some more. I’m looking to spread out beyond Lancaster to Manchester, Preston, and Blackpool… that sort of thing. I think Bowland Extrav is in the pipeline this year so I’m looking forward to the future very much.
Great, good luck to you Alex! You have our support!
Thanks!