Vocalist
I came across Lara's vocal work while listening to "Before I Leave This World" from Ivan Torrent's Reverie album. Her vocal work in the piece is absolutely stunning. I highly encourage you to listen to her numerous tracks on Spotify and SoundCloud.
It was a pleasure interviewing Lara. She asked to do the interview in written format as English is not her first language, and she wanted to articulate her answers clearly without the pressure of spontaneity. Please enjoy the thirty-third installment in a "glimpse into a life series" highlighting vocalist, Lara Ausensi. Thank you, Lara, for giving such thoughtful and descriptive answers.
1. How would you describe your childhood?
My childhood was a blend of joy and adversity. I remember it being happy for the most part. I was surrounded by the love of my parents, and I had a close-knit group of friends. My dad and I shared a special bond through our mutual love for music. Beginning my piano lessons at the conservatory filled me with deep joy, especially knowing how much it meant to him and how proud he was of my journey. However, when I was 12, my father passed away from cancer, casting a deep shadow on our family. I also began to face bullying at school around that time. These experiences forced me to grow up faster, and I found myself taking on a more mature role, especially in caring for my younger sister. My teenage years were a challenging period, filled with the struggle of accepting my mom's remarriage, and grappling with the intense emotions that come with adolescence. Yet, through it all, music remained my comfort and anchor.
2. What is your fondest memory as a child?
One of my fondest memories as a child is spending time with my dad, immersed in our shared love for music. There were days when he would pick up one of his instruments and play tunes by ear, effortlessly transitioning from one melody to another. I would often join him, trying to match the notes on my piano. The genuine pride in his eyes whenever I hit the right notes or mastered a piece at the conservatory was something I cherished deeply. Those moments of musical bonding not only strengthened our father-daughter relationship, but also instilled in me a lifelong passion for music.
3. What conversation with your mom and dad impressed itself upon your memory?
The conversation that left a memorable mark on my memory was not one I was directly a part of, but rather one I accidentally overheard. I remember walking past the living room and hearing my mom's hushed, emotional voice as she spoke to my grandma over the phone. She mentioned that my dad had cancer. The weight of that word, even without fully grasping its implications at the time, struck fear into my heart. I ran upstairs and looked up 'cancer’ to understand. The information I found confirmed my worst fears, and I instinctively knew that my dad wouldn't be coming home with us anymore. That moment—the realization and the flood of emotions that came with it—is seared into my memory.
4. What would you title your autobiography and why?
I would title my autobiography Between Notes and Silences. This title encapsulates the rhythm of my life, with its alternating moments of profound activity and poignant stillness. From the cherished melodies of my childhood, where music and parental love were my safe havens, to the adult years filled with both challenges and triumphs, my journey has been a symphony of highs and lows. As an adult, I've encountered unique hardships, learned from them, and basked in moments of unexpected joy and achievements. This title reflects the entirety of my life, emphasizing not just the notes—the loud, clear moments of success and happiness—but also the silences, which are the moments of reflection, learning, and growth.
5. What is the meaning of life to you?
The meaning of life, to me, is a beautiful tapestry woven from countless experiences, emotions, and connections. It's about embracing every note, and every rhythm, be it from a classical piece that reminds me of my father, or a pop song that resonates with my current mood. It's the warmth of a well-brewed coffee cupped in my hands as I lose myself in the pages of a captivating book. It's the feel of cool sand beneath my feet, the thrill of a new city, the flavors of a freshly cooked local dish, and the soft purring of my cats by my side.
6. What makes life beautiful to you?
Having lived in various places from the vibrant landscapes of Spain to the picturesque beauty of the Netherlands, I've come to understand that life's essence is about growth and evolution. It's about constantly learning — from different cultures, from our loves and losses, from the music we create and the books we read. It's about cherishing every moment, whether it's the comforting routine of daily life, or the thrill of an unexpected adventure.
Above all, life is about connections. It's the bond I share with my loved ones, the memories of my father and our shared love for music, the camaraderie with friends around the world, old and new, and even the silent companionship of a good book or a serene seashore. In all these moments, big and small, I find the essence of what makes life beautiful to me.
7. What makes it hard?
Life becomes particularly challenging for me when I contemplate the ephemeral nature of success and recognition in my career as a vocal performer. It’s a world where one moment you can be at the pinnacle, surrounded by applause and accolades, and the next, you can find yourself eclipsed by new trends, overshadowed by the fleeting nature of popularity. This uncertainty, this ebb and flow of visibility and validation, can indeed make life hard.
Additionally, the loss of significant individuals like my father and my grandmother, Carmen, has left a void that resurfaces during moments of solitude. Their absence, especially during the times when I wish I could share my accomplishments and growth with them, casts a shadow on certain moments of joy.
8. Is there something you want to do that you still haven't done?
There are certain aspirations I still hold close to my heart, some of which revolve around pushing the boundaries of my comfort zone. I dream of having the courage to present a more transparent version of myself on social media. As I am an introvert, this often feels like scaling a mountain, but I recognize the potential it holds for my career and personal growth. I also dream of taking more ownership of my music and being the sole creator without relying on a collaborator. This personal endeavor is more about proving to myself that I can channel my emotions and experiences into songs that resonate.
Travel, too, is on my list. The thought of embarking on a solo journey, especially to a culturally rich country like Japan, fills me with both excitement and trepidation. I believe such a trip would be not only an exploration of a new place but also a deep dive into my own psyche.
And, of course, there's that lingering dream of performing in a grand venue—the sound of my voice intertwined with the notes of a symphonic orchestra filling every nook and cranny of a massive space. It's not just about the scale or the audience, but more about the culmination of my passion, training, and the legacy of those I've loved and lost.
9. What element of nature speaks most to you and why?
Streams of water speak most profoundly to me in nature. Their constant flow and gentle murmurs remind me of life's ephemeral nature, and the beauty of movement and change. Just like a stream carves its path, I'm reminded to stay resilient and keep flowing no matter the obstacles.
Additionally, flowers, with their delicate beauty and transient bloom, mirror the fleeting moments of joy and the need to cherish them. Streams of water and flowers symbolize the ebb and flow of life, and the importance of embracing every moment.
10. Is there something you would like to see change about our world?
I wish to witness a shift from conflict and individualism to an era defined by empathy, compassion, and understanding. It might sound cliché, but I genuinely dream of wars being replaced by global unity and cooperation. Tolerance and respect should be the cornerstones of our interactions as well as breaking down barriers and fostering collective growth. I wish for a world where we value our shared humanity over our differences.
11. What individual do you look up to?
It's hard to name just one individual, as my inspirations are an amalgamation of remarkable people, artists, and thinkers who have touched my life in various capacities. My father is one inspiration, with his innate musicality and warmth. My grandmother, Carmen, is another with her wisdom and tales of a bygone era. My mother is yet another, with her resilience and unwavering support. I am also inspired by my sister, who is a dedicated and compassionate nurse. All these individuals have been foundational pillars in my life.
Musically, the ethereal melodies of Enya, the timeless genius of the Beatles, the classical brilliance of Bach and Purcell, and the distinctive sounds of Mike Oldfield and Kate Bush, have all influenced my artistic journey. Additionally, for a touch of humor and wit that I deeply appreciate, “Blackadder” and “Monty Python” have been significant. Each of these influences has played a role in shaping me into the woman and artist I am today.
12. If you could be an animal, what would you be?
I would be a cat. I not only have a special affinity for them, but cats also symbolize many qualities I relate to and admire. A cat embodies independence yet craves affection. A cat moves gracefully, and its curious nature often leads it on various adventures. Much like my journey of traversing different countries and soaking in diverse cultures, a cat is always exploring its surroundings and seeking new experiences. The musical nature of a cat’s purr also aligns with my deep connection to music, providing a comforting and soothing presence in any environment.
13. What is your favorite book and why?
My favorite book is The Pillars of the Earth by Ken Follett. This novel, set against the backdrop of the construction of a cathedral in medieval England, captivated me from the very beginning. The intricate plot, combined with richly developed characters, offers a window into the past. The novel showcases the complexities of human ambition, love, betrayal, and redemption. Follett masterfully weaves history, architecture, and the human spirit. Every time I read it, I'm transported to a different era, and I find myself marveling at the resilience and determination of the characters. The novel is a testament to the enduring human spirit, and the lengths we go to realize our dreams and aspirations.
14. Do you have a favorite time period in history and why?
I'm particularly drawn to the Belle Époque, which spanned from the late 19th century to the onset of World War I. This era, especially in places like Paris, was a golden age of arts, culture, and scientific discovery. The atmosphere was ripe with optimism, and there was a genuine belief in progress and the potential of humanity. It was a time when art and culture flourished, giving birth to many iconic works and movements in literature, painting, music, and even cinema. The aesthetic of the Belle Époque, with its elegant fashions and vibrant social scenes, has always fascinated me. Additionally, as a musician and lover of arts, the innovative and experimental spirit of the period deeply resonates with me. It's a reflection of what society can achieve when there's a confluence of creativity, optimism, and freedom of expression.
15. Do you think there is a piece of music that describes your personality? If so, what is it and why?
If I were to choose music that encapsulates my personality, it would be Enya's album The Celts. This album, with its range of haunting melodies and deep historical resonance, reflects not only my origins but also the myriad of cultures I've experienced. Born in the vibrant city of Barcelona and growing up in the 'Celtic land' of Galicia, I've been shaped by the blend of cosmopolitan energy and ancient mysticism inherent to these places. Further enriching my worldview, I've traveled and lived in countries such as the United States, France, Ireland, the UK, and the Netherlands. Each has added its unique note to the symphony of my life.
