Sparky's new singing sensation

 

International classical singing and recording artist Izzy Cooper lives in Bourne End with her partner, Neil, and daughter, Sophia. All three of her albums reached No.1 in the Classical Charts worldwide and she was nominated ‘Best Female Artist’ in the Classical Brit Awards. When she had to undergo major back surgery right in the middle of her recording career or never
walk again, a new chapter of her life began. Her latest venture 
is at Sparky's Drama, bringing her amazing singing technique
to the classes for Juniors and Teens. I caught up with her to hear her story...

 

Amber Edlin, principle of Sparky's Drama, says: 'I am so delighted to have Izzy teaching our pupils. She is my own singing teacher and I have been so happy with the results of my lessons. Izzy has just the sort of fun, positive and encouraging approach I look for in a teacher, and combined with her professional background and amazing talent I was determined that my pupils would benefit from her expertise too.'

 

Izzy says: I was born in Much Wenlock, Shropshire, and lived in Reynolds Mansion, a tourist attraction on the high street. Sadly, Mum left Dad when I was very young and we (my brother Guy, myself and Mum) moved to London. 

   My music journey began at four, when I loved playing the descant recorder. 
In fact, I wanted to be the world's greatest recorder player and learnt the whole family from the sopranino to the bass. But at some point, I changed my mind and felt that singing was perhaps a more exciting path to take!  

   I went to boarding school between the age of eight and 16 – St. Bedes Prep
in Eastbourne and the Arts Educational School in Tring – where I furthered my musical/creative skills by learning the clarinet, flute, piano and cello, becoming the head chorister/soloists in choirs, and I took drama, art, dance and so on. It was at eight years old that I began singing lessons and from that moment, I knew I wanted to sing classical in one way or another.  

   My idol is the late Eva Cassidy – her spirit and genuine magical musicality touches my heart and makes me want to be a better person. I never had a dream as such, only a love for what I do and that's to sing for others – to not only enrich my life but to enrich others!

   I auditioned for the music conservatories at the age of 17. I chose the Guildhall School of Music & Drama. By my final year, I had signed to Decca Records, had written my first classical album, Libera Me, and once graduated, recorded it in Abbey Road Studios with the London Symphony Orchestra. When released, it hit No. 1 in the Classical Charts and prompted us to release a further two albums, Ascolta and New Dawn, taking me all over the world.

   I have been incredibly fortunate to work with Craig Leon on all three classical albums – we have a special connection and a great synergy when working together. I have learnt so much from Craig and he in turn has seen me grow

and blossom into the artist I am today. The perks are I get to hang out with people like Debbie Harry!

   I have also had the privilege of working with Sir Cliff Richard, Lionel Richie, Charlotte Church, Russell Watson, Gareth Gates and Bryan Ferry to name a few. I also got to record Song to the Siren for the Peter Gabriel CD (sponsored by Cacharel), Gifted: Women of the World. I have performed at venues such as the Royal Albert Hall, Saint Pauls Cathedral, Twickenham and many more abroad.

   I was nominated ‘Best Female Artist’ in the Classical Brit Awards and my music is being embraced as a new force in the ‘healing music’ market for it’s spiritual and relaxing qualities.

   My drive, discipline and passion is what has helped me achieve everything thus far and the peace of mind to accept all that is to come in the future, continuing to maintain a secure and healthy balance in every area of my life! 

   Unfortunately, throughout my busy 'Izzy' career, I suffered with agonising back pain. I eventually had to succumb to major back surgery right in the middle of my recording career, but I had no choice – it was that or never walk again! The record company were unable to keep my position and I was left not only having to learn to walk again, but to pick up the pieces of my career and start from scratch. It was a life-changing experience, but looking back I have no regrets
as I have now become stronger, appreciating life more than ever.   

   I decided to move to Spain to convalesce (family live there) and I ended
up staying for eight years. A new chapter began and I met Neil. I continued singing all over the world until our daughter, Sophia, came along! We decided
to return home for her education and new opportunities for all of us. We now live in Bourne End and Sophia will be starting school this September! Being a mum does change things as I choose to stay close to home and not travel
like I did.

   Throughout my career and even whilst still at uni, I have taught, so I've been teaching for over 20 years now. But since Sophia was born and having returned to the UK, I have begun teaching special needs children – something I have always wanted to do – as well as offering private tuition, and my newest venture is at Sparky's Drama running classes for Juniors and Teens.

   I have always loved teaching, especially the younger generation. My aim is to nurture each individual, uplift their spirits, encourage them to believe that each of us are unique and inspire them to fulfil their fullest potential.    

   As well as having recorded a musical and Spanish album whilst living in Spain,
I have also recorded a fourth classical album with Craig Leon and when we feel the time is right we will release it. But right now, I am focussed on my beautiful Sophia as she begins her school adventure next month. The thought of which path she might take truly excites me – the choice will always be hers, but
I have to admit I believe that she will never be able to escape her creative surroundings. My mum is an artist, my stepdad a record publisher, Neil is a florist and masseuse, and of course, myself! There are exciting times ahead – who knows what life will offer next? Watch this space...

 

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