 Jenna Hoff: “I really can’t wait for the LANXESS arena!”
Jenna Hoff knew she was going to be a singer from an early age. After beginning singing lessons at the age of 12, from 2005 to 2007 she was coached by one of the best vocal coaches in the business.
The versatile singer loves singing songs with which she feels connected and explains her musical influences, as well as her sporting background in this interview
You had your first singing lesson at age 12. Was it your wish or an idea from someone in your family?
Jenna Hoff: I wanted to be a singer since I was six. As a child, I obviously didn’t have any idea how to become one, but I always knew that it would be my career.
I grew up with my mother, she gave me everything I needed and let me try to do what I was interested in. If I wanted to be an athlete, she would have supported me just as much as if I wanted to be a singer.
Because of that, I am very thankful today. With time, my wish to become a singer got stronger and stronger and there was no way to avoid getting singing lessons.
Which sports were you interested in when you were young?
Jenna Hoff: A wide range of sports! From jazz dance and ballet to the classic martial art Jujutsu. I was most successful in cross-country skiing, where I was twice Berlin champion with my team.
You took singing lessons from David Lee Brewer, who works with Beyoncé, between 2005 and 2007. How did that come about?
Jenna Hoff: David came to Berlin to open a master class there. Funnily enough, he had a photo shoot with my cousin, who was a photographer. I went along to the studio and introduced myself and two weeks later I was in David’s class. I learnt a lot there, not just about singing, he prepared us for performances too. It was the first time I sang in front of 20 to 40 people and had an audience.
Are there any performances which stand out in your memory?
Jenna Hoff: We had a performance in the Berlin Philharmonic, singing gospel music. The music and the acoustics were indescribable.
In your opinion, how important is it to develop young talent at an early stage? Is a singing coach comparable with a coach in sport?
Jenna Hoff: I believe so, the principle is the same. You bring your talent, but have never learnt anything. Every performance, every voice and every shot can always be improved upon. A teacher helps you to use your ability in the right way.
What are your career goals?
Jenna Hoff: International success! I think that everyone can achieve what they want with the right commitment. I want to emphasise that to young people. I want to perform in sold-out concerts, in front of people who have come to see me and nevertheless remain available for all of these people.
You were at the VELUX EHF Champions League Group Phase match between Füchse Berlin and Barcelona and experienced the big game live. What were your impressions?
Jenna Hoff: The game was fantastic! I sat on my own, but I never had the feeling that I was there alone. The fans are a very authentic group and they carry you with their enthusiasm for their team.
It was an exciting encounter from the first until the last minute. I really can’t wait for the LANXESS arena!
TEXT: Zita Newerla / cor
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