Meet the Musicians behind the Advent Calendar: Caroline Clipsham

Pianist Caroline will be bringing us a solo arrangement of a familiar Christmas favourite behind her calendar door, and we caught up to find out a bit more about her.

Caroline trained at the Guildhall School of Music and Drama, and has since performed all over the world, from the Wigmore Hall to the QE2, for everyone from royalty, to the FA Cup! She has recorded for radio and tv and loves the variety in the job.

Musician mums are some of the best life jugglers...

"I juggle this with two children and a menagerie of pets, which my daughter is hoping to add to this Christmas. Luckily for us, I am pretty sure Father Christmas doesn't deliver live animals, and I doubt a horse or a husky would fit down our chimney anyway!"

During the year, like most of us Caroline managed lockdown a lot better when the children were able to go back to school "I’ve learnt we are definitely not a homeschooling family! Online teaching, homeschooling kids and trying to keep them from interrupting Daddy (also working from home) was a whole new experience, definitely not one I am in a hurry to repeat!!

I tried to stay active with walking, and online work outs, even though some days it’s been hard to motivate myself, I definitely feel better and more positive afterwards. 

I discovered that lockdown has given me an unhealthy obsession with leggings, hoodies and books! 

One thing I did enjoy, was being able to watch  my friends amazing online concerts, and performances in my pyjamas with a glass or two of wine! 

It’s been a very tough year for everyone, but I think particularly for the creative and performing arts. I love the way everyone has pulled together and supported each other though, and I have made some wonderful new connections with musicians, authors and artists. Hopefully some exciting collaborations in the pipeline, as and when we can all get back to what we do best!

I have also really missed the travelling that being a musician brings, I am very lucky that I get to go to some amazing places and I love exploring and meeting the locals, such as Milly here, who is the cutest wombat I had the pleasure of meeting in Tasmania."

Musician Mums Quick Christmas Quiz:

What will you miss most about performing music this Christmas?

The atmosphere is pretty special at Christmas concerts (and the obligatory wine and mince pies!!!)

Your favourite hymn/Christmas song?

Mary's Boy Child, and Little Donkey

And what are you hoping for this year for Christmas?

A house that cleans itself, kids that put their stuff away, and a garden that keeps itself tidy!! But I'd settle for some nice perfume or a good bottle of fizz!

What's your favourite Christmas memory ?

As a child I always found Christmas Eve ridiculously exciting! And the stockings the next morning! As an adult I love Christmas Eve as it’s usually when family get together for Christmas or we go out with friends, and it still has that sense of hope and excitement.

Tell us your favourite thing about Christmas ?

Christmas shows and carol concerts, the children’s Christmas cake which they make at school ( super yummy , and saves me a job!!) and my mum's roast.

Thanks so much Caroline, can't wait to see you in advent!