Federica: “I hope people will say “that’s different, I like it!” (Exclusive Interview)

ESC+Plus has had the chance to talk with Federica Falzon, the mezzo-soprano who will represent Malta on home-ground!

ESC+Plus.com: Hello Federica! First of all, congratulations on having been selected to represent Malta at Junior Eurovision 2014!

Thank you very much.

E+: You were internally selected by PBS, do you know how the decision was taken? What was the first idea which came to your mind when they told you such an important proposal?

My first reaction was delight. I was thrilled to be selected. It is an honour to be chosen to represent your country. I was selected after winning Ti Lascio una Canzone, a popular show on the national Italian TV channel Rai Uno.

E+: You will represent Malta at Junior Eurovision on home ground, what does it mean for you?

It will be a more relaxing experience for me. When I was competing in Ti Lascio una Canzone I had to fly to Italy every weekend. I’m sure that with the final taking place in Malta I will get the support of the home crowd.

E+: You presented your song at school, the St Benedict’s College. How did you experience this event? What was the reaction of your mates and teachers after listening to your song?

The reaction was good. They liked the video and the song. I’m relying on my school friends to help me out because I’ll miss classes during the week of the final and will need to borrow books and notes to catch up.

E+: Some months ago, you became the winner of “Ti Lascio una Canzone” along with the young tenor Vincenzo Carni, can you tell us about your experience in the Italian show? What has your mate Vincenzo told you about your Junior Eurovision participation?

It was a wonderful experience. It gave me the chance to perform with superb musicians in Italy and in Malta and I began to learn how television works. Vincenzo is great. He has also been invited on TV show in Malta. We kept an excellent rapport. I keep in touch with him on Facebook.

E+: As you already know, another contestant of “Ti Lascio una Canzone” 2014 will be taking part at this year’s Junior Eurovision, Vincezo Cantiello will represent Italy. What do you think about his song? Have you already talked with him about Junior Eurovision?

I know Vincenzo Cantiello through the TV show which I won. He was also a contestant. He did really well. as regards to Junior Eurovision, I haven’t had the chance to talk to him but I’m looking forward to welcoming him to Malta. He has a very nice song and could do well.

E+: Your friend Gaia Cauchi won the last year’s edition of Junior Eurovision, you have a lot of things in common, has she told you any advice?

I shouted with such excitement when Gaia won last year. She has told me what it will be like on the day of the final so I am well prepared. We spend time together during vocal lessons as we frequent the same teacher. What I have learnt is that you should do your best. That way, even if you don’t win you will know that you at least did all that you possibly could.

E+: Your song “Diamonds” is written by your vocal coach Gillian Attard, Elton Zarb and Matt Muxu Mercieca who were also in charge of the Junior Eurovision 2013 winning entry, what do you think about the song they have composed for you?

I like it a great deal. It’s a very nice song. It was especially written to suit my voice. I get emotional every time I sing it. The lyrics mean so much to me and the melody touches my inner feelings. I hope people will say “that’s different, I like it.”

E+: What is the thing you like the most of your vocal coach Gillian Attard? Has she given you any special advice for Junior Eurovision?

I like the way she helps me develop my voice. She has set me exercises to do every day. And she advises me on what to eat and drink.

E+: What is your song about? Can you explain us the meaning of the word “Diamonds” according to the song’s message?

The song has a beautiful message that you should follow your dreams because everything is possible. Diamonds is a metaphor to suggest that no dream is out of reach as long as one believes in it. I had a hand in writing it. I sat down with the lyricist and we came up with “together we can shine like diamonds in the sky.” Song writing is something I would like to explore more.

E+: You shoot a preview video for your song “Diamonds”, how was the shooting of the clip? Any funny anecdote you can share?

It was a very long day but worth it in the end. I’m very happy with the video. For one scene I had to enter the sea wearing a dress. It didn’t feel comfortable at all. I had sand everywhere and couldn’t wait to change into dry clothes.

E+: What do you do just before going on stage? Do you carry any lucky charm during your performances?

I have to prepare myself by getting into the right mood. I don’t really get nervous and as soon as I start singing the music takes over me.

E+: Have you already decided about how your stage performance will look like? And the costume you will be wearing?

No, not really. I’ve been concentrating on the song, the video and choreography.

E+: You are the first opera singer taking part at Junior Eurovision, can you tell us about your voice and musical genre?

I consider myself a mezzo-soprano. I actually like different types of musical genres and am enjoying discovering all types of music.

E+: Tell us more about yourself, favourite music style, favourite school subject, hobbies, musical career…

I like singing, obviously. But I also enjoy drawing and crafts. I play handball and enjoy watching football. I supported Brazil during the World Cup.

E+: Can you send a message for our readers and Junior Eurovision fans?

I hope lots of you can come to our beautiful island for the final of Junior Eurovision. I am very grateful for all the support I get and I hope you will be very pleased with my performance on the night.

Thanks for your time and see you in Malta!

Federica Falzon will perform the song “Diamonds” written by her vocal coach Gillian Attad, Elton Zarb and Matt Muxu Mercieca.