Who is Tristen Bird?
I am a Melbourne based musician, producer and teacher and have recently launched the Melbourne School of Ukulele.
What would you do differently to what you do now?
I’m doing exactly the thing I love to be doing, helping others to reach their musical ambitions.
Who inspires you and why?
My partner inspires me, she is so supportive, shows me what is possible and helps me to be the best I can be.
What would you do to make a difference in the world?
Teach more people the ukulele! We’d all get along a lot better I think.
Favourite holiday destination and why?
Without a doubt Milford Sound NZ, solitude, beauty and silence all in one.
When friends come to town, what attraction would you take them to, and why?
I would take them to the Melbourne Zoo, we have a lovely Zoo here.
What are you currently reading?
Special Deluxe by Neil Young. Amazing.
What are you currently listening to?
The Idler Wheel Is Wiser by Fiona Apple. Also amazing.
Happiness is?
Happiness is the key to life. Helping others to get to where they want to be, being surrounded by loving friends, family and my partner is happiness.
What does the future hold for you?
Some exciting things, some beautiful new music that needs to be recorded and shared to the world, new adventures and a good glass of red at some point would be nice.
From birds to beats, former Adelaide Zoo bird-keeper, Tristen Bird is no stranger to the Australian music scene. With over 20 years experience as a singer-songwriter and producer, Tristen’s gift for storytelling through music has made him an inspiring and respected voice in the industry.
Born and raised in South Australia to musical parents, Tristen’s love and passion for The Arts was genetic. Favouring subtle, intimate and mood-driven storytelling, Tristen’s folky sounds are unique; showcasing a style that utilises textured finger strumming and stringed soundscapes. Proficient in guitar, banjo, ukulele, harmonica and piano, Tristen is constantly evolving his craft in order to explore new narratives and sounds for his fans, clients and colleagues.
Often compared to the likes of Neil Young and Hank Williams, Tristen’s 2011 debut LP, Horse to Water introduced Australia to the emotive, intimate and eclectic sounds of this country-folk musician. Working with ARIA-winning producer, Shane O’Mara, and The Voice contestant, Abbie Cardwell, Tristen’s inaugural record saw him tour around Australia, garnering significant radio airplay and favourable music reviews. Tristen’s most recent 2014 EP, Different Keys for Different Locks was self-produced and draws inspiration from Australia’s iconic landscape and history.
Boasting a wealth of knowledge as a recoding studio engineer, producer and music teacher, Tristen also extends his time to his production house, Hummingbird Studio and his new musical venture, The Melbourne School of Ukulele. Founded in late 2014, the school is co-operated by Ebonie Hyland and is dedicated to teaching and accommodating people from all walks of life and musical ability.
Working with a number of influential artists such as Victoria Vox and Jane Cameron, the school is designed to foster a fun and interactive environment; and combat the harsh and damaging effects of stress, low self-esteem and anxiety through the universal language of music. Currently based in Prahran, Tristen will begin working on his next studio album in late 2015.
For more information about The Melbourne School of Ukulele, visit; www.themelbourneschoolofukulele.com for details.
Image: Tristen Bird