ENTERING the Gitameit school compound the sound of a choir can be heard practising Christmas songs. But Christmas can wait, Timeout is here for Ki Shing, 26, who will perform a concert with his newly established Gitameit Fresh Band.

When did you start writing lyrics?

Since 2000 when I was in the 10th grade. I started writing songs but for this concert I only included songs composed over the past three years.

Why do you only sing original songs, even though you are new?

I’ve found it hard to write original songs. Before I arrived at Gitameit School I did not know anything about music theory, I just wrote songs with guitar as best I could. When I arrived at the school I learned about (music) theory and practice. And I also learned piano so these skills have helped me a lot to write songs. I came to Gitameit in March 2006.

Are you influenced a lot by other composers?

I like rock music, so I think rock song composers influence me a lot.

Where do you find your material for song writing?

Most of the time I just imagine the songd. After I have written the lyrics I start thinking what music I should use. Sometimes I also write about some of my friend’s experiences and feelings too, but most of the time I only write about what I can imagine in my own mind.

You mostly use piano and violin accompaniment in your songs, are you thinking about this when you compose?

The band discusses the songs. When I compose the song on the piano I give the chosen tone to the pianist and I also tell the violinist what kind of style I want.

You can sing, play piano and also compose, which do you think you are best at?

I like singing the most. Singing is my major and piano is my minor subject.

Is it much different singing your own songs rather than covers?

To be honest, I am more satisfied when I sing my own songs even though I am not as good as the famous composers.

What kind of things do you compose about most?

In particular I like to write about deep feelings. For example, I like to write about somebody leaving me and causing lots of pain.

Why did you decide to organise a solo concert?

I’ve been thinking about having a solo concert for a very long time, since I started attending Gitameit. But it wasn’t easy to do because we didn’t have a band. Now our school president U Moe Naing organised a band and planned this show. So this show is not just about me, I’d also like to introduce the band too, our name is Gitameit Fresh Band.

Did you feel nervous before the concert?

Yes, I was very worried because I am not a famous singer and also U Moe Naing invited a few of the famous composers so I was very excited. We all practised very hard for the concert, sometimes until midnight.

Your voice is similar to some of the famous singers in Myanmar. How will you define your own style?

Many of my friends told me this. They have also advised me to get my own style and I have also noticed myself. I am not trying to imitate them but I also believe that I have to change my style.