St Ursula’s alumna Julia Ivory’s debut single, To the Bone, explores the under discussed topic of anorexia nervosa.
The song eloquently addresses the artist’s personal struggles over the past few years, and of “feeling locked in my own mind”.
“I found myself turning to my music in my darkest times,” Julia explained.
“I wrote this song in the middle of the night at my piano to calm down, and it all poured out.
“My recovery is a part of who I am, and I am not doing my job if I can’t shed light on what I’ve experienced” – Julia Ivory
“I want people to know there is a way out of it (anorexia nervosa) and you can recover,” Julia said.
THE ROAD TO STARDOM
The talented 2019 Catholic Schools Performing Arts (CaSPA) Sydney graduate co-wrote and co-produced the single with her mentor and former CaSPA tutor, Philippe-Marc Anquetil.
“CaSPA gave me my first recording experience in the recording studio at Southern Cross Catholic College Burwood, and got me looking at the production side as well” – Julia Ivory
Philippe-Marc said Julia joined the “CaSPA family” in 2013 as an 11 year old, performing an incredibly mature rendition of The Prayer in its Have You Got Talent event.
“She continued on as a regular cast member of the CaSPA vocal ensemble, singer-songwriter ensemble and the Youth Ministry Band,” he said.
“It has been a privilege to watch her grow and develop her talent with integrity and honesty” – Philippe-Marc Anquetil
“We cannot wait to continue to follow her rise,” Philippe-Marc said.
CREATIVE FROM THE GET-GO
Julia’s musical journey began in Our Lady of Fatima Catholic Primary School Kingsgrove, when her Year 1 teacher recognised her incredible singing ability and spoke to her parents about it.
“As a little girl, I sang in the choir a lot, which helped me learn to harmonise; this experience sets you apart from others and helps you on your own learning journey” – Julia Ivory
Not long after, she joined CaSPA Sydney.
“I remember auditioning for [Disney-themed] Tell Me a Story where I was chosen to perform as Snow White at the Sydney Entertainment Centre,” Julia recounted.
“It was exciting. I got to dress up and experience performing in a huge venue …it was my first really big performance.”
And the beat goes on
“Music continues to surround me in my life,” said Julia.
“As well as writing, producing and releasing music, I teach students to play the piano and I am back performing face-to-face.
“I am also studying at the University of Technology Sydney in visual communications, to occupy a different part of my brain, as well as taking care of the marketing and social media side of my music.”
Asked what advice she would give to anyone pursuing a career in music, Julia said: “Be yourself.”
“That is the pivotal part of your artistry,” Julia further added.
“And be certain of what you want. You need to be passionate and make it work. Authenticity is awesome.”