Anna Christina is the multi-award-winning author, narrator, musician, producer, and owner of Music Audio Stories. She has entertained and taught thousands of children at nurseries, schools, libraries, and workshops with her Music Audio Stories during her fun interactive musical storytime, Storytime with Anna Christina. She is qualified in Sound Engineering, Music and Sound Technology, and Music Production. Her natural flair for strong themed storytelling, both in writing and in music, is prominent in her unique brand of music audiobooks. As well as participating at some of the largest events and venues, Anna Christina regularly volunteers at libraries and is a brilliant advocate for the power of stories and music.
1. What did you like to write and read as a kid?
As a child, I loved reading fairy tales, looking at illustrations, and Disney. I remember reading Tales of Mrs Hedgehog by Susannah Bradly. The illustrations were by Kate Lloyd-Jones. I would imagine that I lived in Henrietta's Hobbit-style house in the story and in the pages themselves, and I would have such adventures! My regular bedtime storybook was Hamlyn Wonderful Fairy Stories in Colour, classic fairy tales of old, re-told by Lornie Leete-Hodge and illustrated by Beverlie Manson. The fine-lined illustrations made it look magical, and I loved the stories. I must admit, I don't recall writing stories when I was a child. From a young age, I attended a Ballet boarding school so music and performing were at the forefront of my education. I began writing stories when I started my company, Music Audio Stories.
2. What was your favorite subject in school?
Music. Although I was never a fan of music theory, I found I had a natural ability to compose, write songs, and replay music I heard on the piano. For me, learning the piano at a young age was one of the best things I ever did, as it became a crucial instrument in the creation of my Music Audio Stories.
3. Where do you like to write?
Because my stories are all accompanied by music, I write in my recording studio. I write stories and music together, in sync with each other, creating a unique phrasing in both words and composition.
4. What’s your favorite genre to write?
Fiction. The only limit is your imagination. I enjoy writing fun stories in an animal kingdom for children. I love magical worlds where animals and insects talk, sing, and dance!
5. Do you write more than one thing at a time?
In terms of stories, no. Once I have begun a story, I finish it. Given the musical process, it would not be beneficial to have two Music Audio Stories on the go! I do, however, write down ideas for stories and songs whenever they appear, even if I have already started a project.
6. Do you let people read your work before it is finished?
Yes! I find it helpful to hear other perspectives and impressions. I tend to write quickly so having another opinion on the general pace and wording is helpful. Knowing now that my Music Audio Stories are being turned into picture books makes the process a little more complicated. I have to be more aware of the word count, grammar, and pacing.
7. Do you write on the computer or freehand?
Freehand. As well as writing my stories on paper, I like to write my video scripts, songs, and ideas on paper too. I find it easier to make corrections quickly and write notes. It's more personal to see the original draft in handwriting as opposed to typed words on a screen. I also find it interesting to see, later on, how many changes I may have made!
8. How do you celebrate when you finish a project?
I like to treat myself to a tasty treat, a fun day out, or an extra day off! It's important to not overlook the power of rewarding yourself for your efforts.
9. Do you prefer ebooks, printed books, or audiobooks most of the time?
From a creative point of view, audiobooks are my passion. I will always love printed books as nothing beats the smell of new pages and holding a lovely book in your hands. However, there's a place for ebooks too. Why choose when you can enjoy them all?
10. Would you share something about yourself that your readers don’t know (yet)?
I am obsessed with tennis! I love both watching and playing it. It's such a great sport.
11. What inspires you?
Music, children, animals, insects, nature, other people's Etsy shops and videos, illustrations, and animations. There's so much in life to draw inspiration from. I love teaching children, but they are also great teachers! I like to create uplifting stories but also incorporate values and educational elements, as learning through play is so important for children.
Thank you for sharing your creative journey with our readers, Anna Christina! If you enjoy music and stories, please subscribe to Anna Christina's Music Audio Stories and follow her on social media. We also have her picture book, Billy Joins the Circus, available in our Bookshop! Keep shining!
Website: http://www.musicaudiostories.com/
Storytime: http://storytimewithannachristina.com/
Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/musicaudiostory
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