Katie Noonan has the voice of an angel, extrordinary talent and the ability to create musical masterpieces. With her latest album Blackbird, a jazz interpretation of the music of Lennon/ McCartney receiving critical acclaim, Katie is just one of the outstanding performers at the Melbourne International Jazz Festival. 3008 chatted to Katie about her latest success.

Your latest album Blackbird is a remarkable work of art based on the music of Lennon McCartney, how difficult was it to select songs for the album; did you have a particular selection criteria?

It was incredibly difficult to select the songs. I decided to focus on the distinct style of Lennon McCartney songs which helped with the short list. I also chose songs that I connected with personally that were either favourites or had a sentimental meaning to me such as If I Fell. I believe there is a song on Blackbird from every album Lennon McCartney collaborated on.

Have you always been a Beatles fan? What about George Harrison?

I am a huge George Harrison fan but it was an either/or situation, the body of work is too good and too vast for one album! I actually discovered the Beatles quite late. I moved out of home at 18 and discovered my flat mate had a vinyl copy of Abbey Road, I loved it instantly and played it daily.

Your mother Maggie Noonan is a respected opera singer, your brother Tyrone is a musician and your husband Zac Hurren is a noted saxophonist, I guess an office job was never on the cards; was there a point at which
you decided music would become your career?

I never consciously made the decision to become a musician I guess I just followed my heart and instincts. Fortunately a series of “happy accidents” occurred along the way which has brought me to this tremendous point in my life. I am totally dedicated to my craft as a singer and songwriter.

What do you find more challenging, creating your own original songs or interpreting the music of others?

Interpreting the work of other musicians is more challenging although on Blackbird it was easy as I just loved the music and that fuelled the creative process. Ultimately writing my own music is my first love and that keeps me
constantly inspired.

What can audiences expect from the Melbourne International Jazz Festival?

An incredible line up of local and international acts, I am so honoured and thrilled to be included. It will be an amazing festival in an amazing city, Melbourne is so culturally alive and the Melbourne audiences are phenomenal.

You have sung and collaborated with some of the greatest jazz musicians and you’re only 31! Is there someone left that you dream of working with?

Playing with the band on Blackbird was like playing with the ultimate dream band. These guys are the crème of jazz music worldwide and were simply inspiring to work with. Most songs were recorded in the first take! I would love to work with Joni Mitchell, she is an incredible inspiration to me and I am in awe of her musical integrity and her staying power after forty years.

What defines a great jazz musician?

The ability to be completely in the moment and allowing themselves to be free.