Author: ruthstrangeway

I am a semi professional singer based in Yorkshire. Using my skills from performing in musical theatre, since 1996, I've sung at weddings, funerals, special occasions and provided entertainment to the care industry. In 2011, I created my business "Motivational Music" with a specific objective of encouraging the elderly to get involved, make music, sing, move and have lots of fun.

Looking Forward To Christmas 2022

Published on by ruthstrangeway

Each year, I love the lead up to Christmas and the chance to share the magic of the festive season with the many residents and staff in those care homes where I’m working.

This year will be no different, with a busy timetable leading right up to 23rd December. I’m especially looking forward to spending considerable time with a special group of residents and staff who live close to my home. We’ve got lots of fun activities planned as well as leaving plenty of time to sing carols and do some bell ringing.

To all those in the care homes I’ve visited this year, I look forward to seeing you again in 2023 and wish you a very Happy Christmas.

Songs of Vera Lynn

Published on by ruthstrangeway

Yesterday, on the first anniversary of Dame Vera Lynn’s passing, I was delighted to launch my new concert programme called “Songs of Vera Lynn. ”

My programme contains many of the songs Vera sang during WWII and other songs she sang from the 50’s, 60’s and 70’s.

Care Homes https://www.carehome.co.uk/supplier.cfm/searchazref/65432214236 or Community Groups in Yorkshire, if you need a Vera Lynn performer, my programme is right up your street. It includes many of Vera’s signature tunes, such as The White Cliffs Of Dover; Now Is The Hour; Lily Marlene; It’s A Lovely Day Tomorrow, We’ll Meet Again; Auf Wiedersehen Sweetheart and A Nightingale Sang In Berkeley Square to name a few. So give me a call and let’s all get singing along!

Over The Rainbow

Published on by ruthstrangeway

There is no doubt that Judy Garland is one of my all time favourite female singers and over the years it has been my privilege to sing many of the songs she made famous. Today I’m delighted to share my own recording of her iconic song “Over the Rainbow” from the 1939 film “The Wizard of Oz.”

Judy was only 16 years old when she was cast as the young Dorothy Gale

Singing For The Soul

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Today, most funerals have moved away from focusing on the sadness of death, towards a much more personalised celebration for that life. If you would like me to help you celebrate the life of your loved one, either by singing at their funeral, or by delivering an inspirational reading or even presenting your family’s eulogy, please contact me to discuss your particular requirements.

I provide an empathetic, considerate and caring service. My foremost wish is to sing that special, treasured song which will celebrate the life of your loved one and create a unique and special goodbye. I sing from the heart, my voice a gift to you and to them on this most important of days.

I have a whole selection of beautiful religious and non-religious music. If you are unsure, contact me to work with you to find the perfect song for your ceremony.

Ruth Smile

It’s A Lovely Day Tomorrow

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This is the third Vera Lynn song, which my friend Martin suggested I sing. I’d like to say a big thank you to him for highlighting them and also the “Bomber Harris” film, starring John Thaw, which I’ve now bought and look forward to watching.

Although “It’s A Lovely Day Tomorrow” was composed by Irving Berlin in 1939 and appeared in the 1940 musical “Louisiana Purchase,” today the song is synonymous with Vera Lynn when it was used to lift the spirits of the British people during the darkest days of WWII and the Blitz. It’s a beautiful song and I’ve really enjoyed working on it. I hope you enjoy my recording.

Other recordings were made in 1940 by Al Bowlly and Frank Sinatra.

Smile

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This song is dedicated to my dear friend Cath, who suggested I sing it. I hope you enjoy it.

“Smile” was written by Charlie Chaplin in 1936 for his film “Modern Times.” Its’ hauntingly beautiful and poignant lyrics touched deep into my soul as I recorded it and reminded me how deep each one of us is digging into our reserves right now and to remember to smile and remain optimistic.

Nat King Cole made a wonderful recording of the song in 1954.

 

When The Lights Go On Again

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“When The Lights Go On Again, All Over The World” is the second Vera Lynn song that my friend suggested I record. Although it was recorded originally by Vaughn Monroe in 1942, Vera recorded it soon afterwards and it’s her version we still remember and play today.

Music was a large part of the culture during  WWII and served as a uniting factor among people around the world. “When the Lights Go On Again” was one of the songs that helped keep up the spirits of those who were struggling. Once again we see that its’ lyrics are still relevant today. Whilst we don’t have to face bombs falling from the sky, or race for the air raid shelters, the invisible Coronavirus still forms a deadly enemy living amongst us in the atmosphere, and we can draw parallels between lockdown and the air raid shelters of the 40’s.

 

I hope my recording, about a time where we can all be free again, helps lift your spirits.

 

Virtual Motivational Music

Published on by ruthstrangeway

Since the start of the Covid restrictions, I have continued to share my voice and raise spirits through my You Tube channel , virtual entertainment and also socially distanced entertainment in care homes and at funerals. 

I established Motivational Music in 2011, to encourage care home residents to sing, have fun, move and make music.