Local artist profile: Tara Flinn & Willow Delaney

THIS week we chat with Tara Flinn (founder) and Willow Delaney from local a cappella group the MaCapella Singers, a close-knit collective whose membership stretches from Bendigo to Castlemaine and Kyneton.

What initially motivated you to take up singing?

Tara: I was born singing… literally! I come from a musical family.

Ultimately though the motivation remains because it makes me feel so good, I can’t live without it!

Willow: After leaving a difficult relationship I needed to find my voice again.

MaCapella gave me that space – and singing reminded me of who I am and what I’m capable of.

How would you describe your singing style?

Tara: I grew up listening to artists like Stevie Wonder, George Benson, Aretha Franklin, but was also exposed to music by Bonnie Raitt, Emmylou Harris and Gillian Welch from a fairly young age too.

I guess my style is a little bit R&B, a little bit folk/country!

Willow: I’ve grown into a confident soprano, which still surprises me.

When I started, I was unsure, but with steady support and a lot of practice, my voice has strengthened.

I now rehearse five times a week, and I’m grateful for how far I’ve come.

Which other singers inspire you?

Tara: Michael McDonald from the Doobie Brothers has my favourite voice of all time and Luther Vandross… tones smooth as butter!

I recently saw Lady Gaga performing live – any artist singing upside down without missing a note has my respect.

Willow: P!NK, without question.

Her powerhouse vocals, even while flying across arenas, are incredible – but it’s her mix of strength and vulnerability that inspires me the most.

Have you had any particular mentors over your career so far?

Tara: Stephanie Marko from The Voice Gym taught me some vocal techniques which were game changing!

Willow: Tara and Steph, our MaCapella leaders.

They’re multi-talented, fiercely supportive, and the heartbeat of our choir sisterhood.

What are some highlights or fond memories you have from your time as a singer?

Tara: I’m in a trio with two close friends which is pure joy.

Singing a duet with my husband was also a moment.

Willow: The recent MaCapella 10-year showcase was magic.

The energy in the theatre was electric, and we were totally in sync.

That energy fuelled me for days.

How can people check out your work online?

Tara: Look up Three Birds and MaCapella on Facebook and Insta.

Willow: Follow MaCapella Singers on Facebook or check out the website.

Or better yet – come sing with us.

There are no auditions, you can bring your kids, and you’ll walk into a community that welcomes you exactly as you are.

(The MaCapella Singers rehearse weekly in Bendigo, Castlemaine and Kyneton)

What are you rehearsing for right now?

Tara: The trio have wrapped for the year (and MaCapella recently performed) at the Bendigo and Castlemaine Carols in the Park.

Willow: (As above) we performed at both the Castlemaine and Bendigo Carols. Tara’s arrangements of some Christmas classics were epic.

What would you say to young regional aspiring singers who are thinking of making a go of the creative life?

Tara: It doesn’t feel like work when you love what you do!

Singing is the most authentic expression of self and is SO good for the soul.

Willow: Seek out every opportunity.

Find your voice, find your people, and do it because it lights you up. Everything else will fall into place.

Find out more on the MaCapella website.