The Singing Dentist: A Rising Star Blending Art and Science
Grace Francois, a Hastings-based dentist, is making waves not only in the dental world – recently publishing in the Journal of Oral Rehabilitation – but similarly on the Hawke’s Bay music scene. This Friday, February 20th, she’ll be performing at Decibel Wines, marking her debut headline show and a significant step in her musical journey.
From Acoustic Pop to Country Roots
Francois initially gained attention with her debut single, Change, released in March of last year. But, she’s now fully embracing country music, a genre she feels aligns perfectly with her voice and songwriting style. “All my favourite artists are country music singers,” she explains, noting the transition feels natural and is resonating with audiences.
Balancing Two Passions
The story of a “singing dentist” is certainly unique. Francois has successfully navigated the demands of both a scientific profession and a creative pursuit. She credits this balance to the symbiotic relationship between her passions. “They seem to work very symbiotically – they build to each other and make each other easier, because music creates a lot of balance for my dentistry and dentistry is the other scientific side of me,” she says.
Mentorship and Support
Francois acknowledges the crucial role of mentors in her success. She specifically highlights Dr. Natalie Stent, who provided her with early opportunities, and Abby Wolfe, a music mentor who helped co-write and record her first song. These supportive relationships were instrumental in allowing her to pursue both her dreams.
An Intimate Performance at Decibel Wines
The performance at Decibel Wines promises an intimate experience. The venue hosts “short, sharp doses of live music” on Friday nights, starting at 5:30pm, featuring one artist and a single set lasting under an hour. Tickets are $25, including a wine tasting flight, or $10 for music only. Francois will be performing all-original material, offering a glimpse into her evolving sound.
The Rise of the Multi-Passionate Professional
Grace Francois’ story isn’t isolated. Increasingly, individuals are pursuing multiple careers and passions simultaneously. This trend is fueled by a desire for fulfillment, a changing job market, and the accessibility of remote work and entrepreneurial opportunities. The ability to balance seemingly disparate fields can lead to increased creativity, resilience, and a more well-rounded life.
FAQ
- Where is Grace Francois performing? At Decibel Wines, 101 Warren Street South, Hastings.
- When is the performance? Friday, February 20th, at 5:30pm.
- How much are tickets? $25 including a wine tasting flight, or $10 for music only.
- What kind of music does Grace Francois play? Country music, blending traditional sounds with modern storytelling.
Pro Tip: Supporting local artists like Grace Francois is a great way to enrich your community and discover new music!
Learn more and purchase tickets at Decibel Wines’ website.
What other local artists are inspiring you? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
