By John Moxey

Short cut link to Candace Avery interview

Gin Wigmore (2004 Grand Prize Winner)

How did you start songwriting?

I began songwriting when I first started learning the basics of guitar. I was 14 years old when I first wrote Angelfire. Songwriting, when I began, was basically a good way to spice up my monotonous guitar skills.

What instruments do you play?

I have learned to play loads of instruments, but as soon as they have become structured and hard work, I tended to ditch them. The ditched instruments include; cello, piano, saxophone, and the recorder. I am now playing the guitar and have recently begun properly structured lessons to become a guru (fingers crossed). I am also singing, and loving it!

Was this the first time that you entered the ISC?

Yes. It was a bit of one-off, as I thought the prizes were bloody impressive, but honestly did not think I had any chance of winning..Seems I did!

After the 2004 competition winner was announced, what happened?

MADNESS! I had quite a chunk of media thrown at me, which was overwhelming and awkward but also very cool. I went on t.v, front page of our national paper, and magazines, just loads! I moved back to Auckland, finished off university and have now got a wonderful woman named Vicky Blood sorting out my newly found life till I can get my head around it and sort out what I plan to do in the long run. I am writing music, trying to find some killer hooks to add to my little dittys, which is hard work! I am off to America on the 28th of June to attend Berklee College of Music, then off to London and Europe to be inspired to write the most amazing album full of songs..!

Winning such a large competition at 18 is pretty impressive. How did you take the news?

I took the news in a series of emotions: shaking, sweaty, and speechless. All in about that order too. I was so sure they had made a terrible mistake, it is something my friends would pull on me, so I was sure they were just pulling the piss announcing me as the Grand Prize Winner.I was really blown away, so obviously let it all sink in by screaming the news down the phone to all my friends and family, followed by all night celebrations at the local pub in Taranaki.

Had you listened to previous entrants in this competition?

No. I actually had never even heard of the competition until my sister sent me the email about it.

Had you entered any other competitions?

No,I'm not a big fan of competitions as I always think it's just too much of a gamble especially when there is an entrance fee, and I'm always so broke..

Have you written many songs?

I wrote quite a few songs when I was younger, about 12 songs I think. But, now that Hallelujah has been such a success, I'm very conscious that my next songs have to be just as good.The pressure is on!