Nathan Holmes-Brown is a 22 year old non-binary busker from Devon, singing and strumming guitar or ukulele. They have played at Totnes Pride, and led the Totnes Pride Youth Group Choir during the 2019 opening speeches. Graham Robson caught up with them to find out how they’ve been spending lockdown and plans for the future.
Hi Nathan, how have you been spending your time during lockdown?
I’ve been finishing off my degree work from home, spending a lot of time with my dog, and trying to find quiet places to film covers for my Instagram! I’m always listening to music so as soon as I’ve finished one song I’ll have the next few covers planned. Luckily there’s plenty of time to figure it out at the moment.
Has it been difficult adjusting to working from home?
It’s been tricky for me because there’s no-one to bounce off with ideas and energy, so my motivation has been pretty low. I’ve rearranged my room to have a workspace with natural light to do uni work, and I’ve been video calling people quite often when I never did that before.
What’s been the biggest impact to your creative output?
Not having people to sing with! A lot of my creativity comes from bouncing off other musicians, and luckily my family are quite musical but they don’t sing! Also not being able to go out and busk or play at Prides.
Have you been watching much online?
Lots of Youtube. Mental health and trans advocates like Noah Finnce, Jammiedodger and Luke Cutforth.
Do you think lockdown is disproportionately affecting the trans community?
It’s made people very isolated for their support networks and communities. I’m lucky that my family (although not exactly accepting) don’t really care about my identity. I have friends who I’ve been on the phone to often who are not ‘out’ and are in lockdown with people who would not be accepting. It’s a worry that young people are so vulnerable right now.
What are your plans for when this is all over?
Hopefully graduate! And then catch up on all the rescheduled Pride events and concerts. It’s going to be a fun few months after this is all over.
Any tips to keep us busy?
I might be a bit biased, but I’d say learn an instrument!
Do you have any work you’d like to share with us?
I’ve been posting covers and art on Instagram so that’s where you could check out what I’ve been up to! For music I’m @nathdoesmusic and for art I’m over on @nathdoesart.
Any words of wisdom to help us through?
Take it easy, honestly. This is a weird time so don’t feel guilty about being less productive! Practise self-care and remember to breathe.
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