This month, NYDC was lucky enough to score an exclusive interview with Operator Please violinist Taylor Henderson. Here's what she had to say...
So, you're pretty young, huh?
I am the youngest at 16 in the band. Timmy our drummer is 17, Ash on bass is 18 and Amandah on vocals/guitar and Naomi on keys are both 19.
When did you know you wanted to be in a band?
For me, it was always something I dreamt of doing, but never really thought was possible. Everyone kept telling me how musicians never make it — so it wasn't until my audition with Operator Please that I truly considered it.
When did you become interested in music?
I started playing the violin when I was six. A long time ago now. For the last couple of years I was really down on the violin — mainly because I didn't think it would ever have a place in the music I listened to. It wasn't until I joined the band that I realised how many artists (particularly Australian ones) incorporate the violin into their music.
During school, what helped you get to where you are today?
I made sure I was a part of as many different things as possible. I did debating, cross country, choir, tournament of the minds, band — and of course every orchestra they had to offer. Just to keep my options open.
Bands you love?
I like a range of different music. At the moment I'm really into The Strokes, The Vines, The Smiths, The Beach Boys, Jamie T and Kimya Dawson.
How'd you get yourselves noticed?
There are thousands on thousands of bands in the world. If you want to make a name for yourself it's important not to sit back and think things are going to come to you. Make a page on MySpace (or a similar website) so you can refer people somewhere to hear your tracks. Then, annoy as many venues/bands as you can to try and get some support slots around your local area. Other than that, be creative — make flyers, t-shirts, CD covers — anything to separate you from the crowd. Get people's attention.
Were you BFF before you grouped as a band?
Not really. The original band were all music students across a couple of grades at high school. Amandah (lead vocals/guitar) wanted to enter a band competition (one of those ones that's held at lunchtime at school) but none of the music students in her grade were interested if it wasn't going to be hardcore music. So she went up to a few people who she knew played instruments and asked them if they wanted to join.
What's your band's style about?
We never try and dress a particular way. We all just wear things that we like and feel confident in. Our clothes come from all over. I like to shop in op-shops and vintage stores mostly, or shops while we're away — just so I'm not wearing the same thing as everyone else when I get home.
How can girls find out about these band competitions?
If there isn't a battle of the bands in your school, there certainly will be in your local area. If you can't find any information on the Internet or the local paper contact your local council.
The coolest thing about being in a band?
The travel. When you're on tour you not only get to see the country, but you get to see it the way the locals do because you're there to work.
What is the worst thing?
The hardest thing about being in a band is being away from home so long. But I guess all this time away has really made me appreciate my family and friends.
How do you chill before performing?
We all have very different ways of dealing with nerves. Amandah changes her clothes about 50 times and says "Oh my god" a lot. Ash and Naomi (who is on this UK/Europe tour) go pretty quiet. Timmy practices drumming and I just kind of dance around.
Tips for gals who wanna be just like you?
Basically, make sure you're really easy to contact and find out about. Make friends with bands and venues and go to as many gigs as you can. Even if you hate the music, there's always something you can learn from another band's performance.
Wanna find out more about Operator Please? Check them out on Music Fix right here.