Remember the golden days of Hollywood when you had to be an actor, dancer, singer all rolled into one? Today's guest is a modern version A truly versatile artists.

Please give a welcome for Hevin, how are you?

I am doing wonderful, thanks! I survived my finals! I just completed the final vocal cuts for my CD last Friday, and now I am on my way to visit my family in Ontario. This year has been really good for me so far.

To be this profficient you must have started at a young age?

I started training in dancing when I was three years old. I was always drawn to the arts. I loved to paint and draw in my free time. I also took up acting and singing when I was about fifteen years old. I have always loved trying out new things. I enjoy a challenge. If something looks difficult to me, I usually just throw myself into it head on. Like this CD, I thought it would be terrifying to do, and so I just HAD to do it. I don't think life is much fun if one does not take chances.

Do you have a mentor/teacher to whom you attribute your inspiration?

I draw much of my inspiration from teachers in my previous schools, and directors I have worked with in theatre. I also admire artists who have been innovative in the past. For example, in terms of acting, I admire Meryle Streep for her ability to make every moment so realistic. She never seems like she is "acting", only "living the moment" as they say. In music, I admire Tori Amos for her honest lyrics. Her lyrics sound as though they came out of her diary. To be able to effectively transpose those thoughts and feelings is not easy to do.

Being of asian ancestry have you or will you incorporate traditional vietnamese instruments in your work?

I have not used traditional Vietnamese instruments in my music yet, but that is a wonderful idea that I will consider for future works!

Do you spend a set amount of time on practicing your various dicipline?

I join choirs often to continue training my voice. At home, I spend a few hours everyday on vocal exercises. In University, I take many drama and dance courses. I also go to the theatre as much as possible so that I can to keep up with the theatre scene.

Do you have a favored social cause to which you devote time too and if so why that one in particular?

When it comes to important social causes I try to lend my time as much as possible. In the past I have been involved in social causes that highlight issues such as "violence against women" and "domestic abuse". The aformentioned causes are two social issues that concern me, and I try in any way I can to help. For example, a few years ago I was involved in a play about domestic abuse. Being involved and playing a principle role in this play felt very rewarding to me because it raised awareness about social issues that need to be addressed. Those types of projects are particularly significant for me.

What artistic project are you working on these day?

I have just completed my first CD titled "Discover The Light". I have been working on the CD for a while now, so I am excited about the release. Much of the lyrics are taken from poems I have written in the past and stories from my journal. So I have a lot of personal attatchment to the CD for many reasons.

Is there a "theme" that prevail in your lyrics?

I sing about many themes such as love, fears and discovery which is symbolized by "light" (hence the title of the CD). I sing a lot about discovery because that is what I have personally experienced in the last few years of my life. I have spent a lot of time just discovering who I "truely" am. It's a continuous journey that is an ongoing search.

Is there anyone in particular you would love to jam with?

I would love to write and sing a song with a few of my favorite artists. These artists are Sarah Brightman, Lara Fabian and Kate Bush.

What is your all time favorite music album?

I can't stop listening to Sarah Brightman and Lara Fabian. They are both amazing in concert, and some of their songs evoke a strong sense of emotion for me. If a song brings tears to my eyes, I immediately go out and buy the CD. That is what great music is to me! It is emotional, touching, deep, and real.

I want to thank you for taking part in this zineterview Any parting words for our readers?

First, thanks for your interest, and secondly, I would like to say thanks to all who have written the positive and supportive mail I have received lately. When I am feeling down, I always read them to lift my spirits up again. I hope everybody enjoys listening to "Last Breath" as much as I enjoyed writing and singing it!

(To hear "Last Breath" Click here)

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