Firstly, this is so strange; being open and honest about where I am in my carer and life feels very alien to me but I'm starting this campaign to have my dream fully realised.
Just before the pandemic hit, I was so close to completing my dream of recording my first album and releasing it into the world. Every musician involved was my top choice for recording and I was flying through days in the studio in a blissful buzz.
When lockdown hit, teaching and gigging came to a halt but there was still work to be done to keep busy (as well as sane) with editing, mixing and mastering. Then finally the album was finished, but so too were live events and the hopes for an album release gig.
What has been done so far?
I was lucky to have loads of extra time over the lockdowns to put into my music along with blood, sweat, tears and my savings.
It took years of writing, re-writing, gigging, building confidence, organising, budgeting and saving to get to the point of being ready for the recording studio. I wanted to have a finished product that represented all that went into it. I couldn't cut corners and so I gave it my all. To date I've released three singles from the album, with a video for each.
These releases along with advertising, artwork and CD manufacturing for promo came to just under €2000. Recording the album over two studios with nine different musicians along with mixing and mastering came to €3500, a €5500 total I've put in so far.
None of this includes the countless hours I have lovingly dedicated to this whole project; it has been a true labour of love.
So what’s next?
Though I'm starting to get back to work as things open up, it would take a very long time to get the money together needed for the release so that’s where I’m hoping you’ll come in! The total for a release gig with promo and merch would be €6500 and here is how it would be used:
“But Clara I don’t see your fee anywhere in there?” I know, I’m saintly…but seriously moving forward, I'll be collecting on vinyl and CD sales and though I'm keeping ticket prices low on for the release gig, that'll be more revenue.
The venue has been booked for July 8th, top class musicians are on board, all that's left is your support which would mean the world for me and my music. If I reach my target and get the album out there, it will bookend this incredible experience, but it will by no means be the end, but only the start of this journey. Thank you so much for reading :)
Update posted on Thursday 9th June '22 @ 10:06:19
Everything is on track, the CDs are ready, vinyl are being made, the t-shirts are on their way! It's a go for July 8th!
Get your tickets here:
https://www.eventbrite.ie/e/clara-byrne-album-release-tickets-333660125417
Update posted on Monday 30th May '22 @ 06:05:19
Thank you all again, this has been the best and craziest time! If it weren't for all you guys it wouldn't be possible, I genuinely mean that. Let me know what you think of the album, I'd love to hear your feedback. Send pics or give it a tag: @handstitchedalbum
If you didn't recieve any rewards, let me know!
Clara :) xxx
ps. The release gig is happening July 8th, tickets are on eventbrite, the link is all over my socials :D
Update posted on Wednesday 4th May '22 @ 03:05:19
Things are ticking along nicely and the next stage of the release is well under way!
An email has been sent out with information on your reward. If you did not recieve an email, you either opted out of a reward or there is a big chance your donation didn't go through. This happened for quite a few people, if you want to get in touch we can try sort it out and get you the reward you want.
Thank you all again for the support, you are a great bunch of lovely people <3 x
Update posted on Saturday 9th April '22 @ 02:04:45
The goal has been reached! I CANNOT believe it! All of your help, support and encouragement has gotten it here. I am overwhelmed to say the least. With still the guts of a week to go, it's still climbing up.
Everything made after this point will be put towards extras like posters and a videographer for the release gig.
I didn't know we'd get here. I certainly didn't know how full of love and support I'd feel. It's been one of the most fulfilling experiences. Thank you, thank you, thank you xxx
Update posted on Thursday 7th April '22 @ 12:04:59
With only one week left and over 20% to go, check out this little treat to sweeten the pot! A ukulele worth €80 donated by the lovely people at Everest Music Bray, along with accessories worth €50 donated by the lovely people at MusicMaker. If that wasn't enough, the lovely Katie Byrne is willing to give some lessons to get you started!
Everyone who donates will be put into the draw to win this amazing prize! xxx
Update posted on Tuesday 15th March '22 @ 07:03:12
Update posted on Wednesday 9th March '22 @ 05:03:35
Your support, shares and donations has gotten the album release campaign to 20% of the goal There are 173 public funders of this project There are 12 anonymous funders of this project anonymous anonymous anonymous anonymous anonymous anonymous anonymous anonymous anonymous anonymous anonymous anonymous
funders (184)