Clare Uchima (formally known as Clara Belle): born January 1983, raised in Osaka Japan by a Scottish mother and a Japanese father. Clare and her 2 younger siblings had a very cross-cultured and unique upbringing. Her Japanese grandparents, who originate from Okinawa, surrounded Clare with their tropical island’s traditional music and culture, whilst her Jazz-loving father exposed her to a lot of Jazz from an early age. In contrast, Clare also grew up listening to 60s/70s Western Folk Rock, which was her mother’s influence. Clare settled in Scotland for the latter part of her schooling, and then moved on to study music at university in London. After graduating, she became a vocal coach, piano teacher and choir director, as well as actively pursuing her own musical career as a singer-songwriter, performing both solo and with her band. “Clara Belle” was her YouTube name. Her videos were featured and had a massive response. After much experimentation and travelling, she has now settled in London and is pursuing her solo project. She has created her own unique style, developed from blending her understanding of her cultural strands.
