Early bird or night owl?
Both/neither.
Depends on the season.
One routine you swear by?
I hate routines, but I have a morning ritual: a glass of water, coffee, poetry and a loving-kindness meditation.
Can’t travel without…?
At least three books, none of which I’ll read because I’ll buy a new one at the airport!
Who or what has influenced you most in your career?
My music teachers. I’m so grateful to have had many encouraging people who shared a love of music and supported my interests.
Favourite city to perform in and why?
Paris. Always Paris.
Guilty pleasure/indulgence?
Single malt Scotch.
Joy-Leilani Garbutt is the co-founder of Boulanger Initiative, a non-profit organisation dedicated to supporting music composed by women through performance, education and commissions. To discover more, visit
