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Are you from around here?
I came from London eight years ago. I belonged to a walking club and we used to come to the area often, and we all loved it. Gradually we’ve all moved to
Hastings. It’s full of interesting people and surrounded by beautiful countryside.
Favourite local pub?
It would have to be Pissarro’s – I’m usually there Sunday lunchtimes to listen to live jazz. And I like the Filo too.
Favourite café?
Smith’s, Waterfalls and Eat@ - they all have a relaxing ambience.
Favourite place to listen to music?
JazzHastings is a wonderful place to go – it’s a monthly jazz night at the Angling Club when really top-notch musicians play, like our own brilliant pianist, John Donaldson. It costs just £5 entry!
What do you sing?
Jazz standards: these are classic songs by great composers like Gershwin, Ellington, Rodgers and Hart and Jerome Kern. They are the Shakespeare of jazz. One of the finest singers of all time, Ella Fitzgerald, is my inspiration. My latest CD is called Out of Nowhere: Remembering Ella.
Favourite place for a walk?
Simply, along the seafront. I like to start at St Leonards, near Warrior Square, and walk towards Bexhill. I also like the East Hill very much – I can walk there from where I live in Clive Vale.
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Favourite landmark?
I suppose it’s the pier. It’s so symbolic of a seaside town. I also love the local architecture; the Brassey Institute is probably my favourite building. And Harpers, the churches, and the terracing of the houses on the hills are all picturesque. Alexandra Park is a triumph of restoration. I have painted in all these places and very challenging they are, too.
Best thing about Hastings?
Its vibrancy: the people are very alive here. And the great variety of music – it’s the artistic community that makes for the life. And the wonderful countryside around the town.
Worst thing?
Oh, I suppose the traffic and finding a place to park. And I wish that there was more support for the arts from the general public. So much is taken for granted.
What one thing would you do for Hastings?
Reinstate the open-air lido on the seafront. If it was beautifully kept and presented, it could be a real draw for visitors and wonderful for local people. It would be an enjoyable way to control obesity, too!
Grab a sound-bite of Maureen singing, check out her paintings and see her book on her website at www.maureenconnett.co.uk You can also hire her singing-services for functions, parties and special events.
The Maureen Connett Quartet is performing at Pissarro’s on Sunday 9th March,
1.30-3.30pm, 9-10 South Terrace, Hastings
t: 01424 421 363 |
Hastings People: 
