No birthday Blues for Buddie Calum

Jul 29 2011 by Jeff Holmes, Paisley Daily Express

CALUM Ingram remembers his childhood days when a visit to a music store would result in him heading straight for the drums to make a noise.

That was 15 years ago but, tonight, the talented string player’s presence will be just as evident when he takes to the stage to support legendary bluesman Jack Bruce.

And the Paisley man can’t think of a better 21st birthday present.

Calum is appearing alongside the ex-Cream star at the Queen’s Hall as part of the Edinburgh Jazz and Blues Festival.

He told the Paisley Daily Express: “I don’t really think it gets much better than sharing a stage with Jack Bruce.

“I’m based in New York these days but when I was asked to play the festival and support Jack, I couldn’t quite believe it and obviously had no hesitation in accepting.

“The gig coincides with my 21st birthday – but I’m afraid the party will have to wait!”

Calum, who was born in the Royal Alexandra Hospital, and brought up in Stanely, re-located to New York two years ago and is enjoying being a part of the thriving music scene Stateside.

He said: “I’m fully settled there now and just love the buzz of the city. The music scene is definitely one of the main reasons for me being there.

“But I always love coming home to Paisley to see my family and friends. There’s no place quite like home.

“My brother, Mark, a talented hockey player, is out in Boston at the moment and he plays a bit of guitar. So he’s pretty close to me in New York.”

Calum, a classically trained cellist and singer/songwriter, has been studying at the New School for Jazz and Contemporary Music in his new home city.

He has a unique way of playing the cello that gives the instrument an almost guitar-like quality.

It weaves through Celtic Folk and Blues music and he has been influenced by the likes of Bob Dylan, Jimi Hendrix, BB King, Stevie Ray Vaughan and Jack Bruce himself.

While in the Big Apple, Calum has been playing with and working alongside musicians such as Ritchie Cannata, Billy Joel’s sax player, Alan Nimmo, a Blues guitarist, Chicago songstress Jessie Arlen and talented New York guitarist Jon Paris.

Calum is currently working on his debut EP and has recently been playing live shows in New York.

He said: “First and foremost, I suppose, I’m a cellist, but I can usually get a feeling for any stringed instrument, and would mark down bass guitar as my second instrument.

“I like to pick up little bits and pieces as I go along. It’s a great way to learn.

“I was playing cello at nine and ever since then, music has been everything to me.

“That’s why getting up there and playing on the same bill as Jack Bruce will be amazing.

“Of course I’ll be nervous but I’ll channel the nerves in a positive way and just try and enjoy the moment.

“Because let’s be honest, how many others will be celebrating their 21st birthday with a music icon?”

Tonight’s gig starts at 8.30pm and tickets are available by calling the Queen’s Hall box office on 0131 668 2019.