A STOKESLEY musician has just recorded a six-track CD in a Cleveland recording studio and hopes to become a professional performer.

Guitarist Sophia Fountain, 27, of Dalewood Walk, cut the CD at Studio 64 in Middlesbrough and has been promoting it to record companies in London.

The former Great Ayton Friends' School pupil writes ballads focusing on the joys and sorrows of relationships, and hopes to make it to the big time.

"I write about the experiences of people I meet and what they have endured. Sometimes I create a situation and put myself into it, then write about the emotions I would feel.

"I hope to become a solo artist performing my own songs but I'm also very interested in joining a band as lead singer. I am quite happy to perform without my guitar."

Miss Fountain has recently set up her own business, performing at residential homes and fundraising events.

"Music is a wonderful therapy and numerous people can benefit from it. Older people have a huge appreciation for music and listen to every word, so it's always a joy playing for them.

"The joys and sorrows of relationships are fantastic material for my ballads and everyone can connect in some way."

She contacted the Middlesbrough branch of InBiz, a support organisation that helps people move from unemployment to self-employment.

Miss Fountain started playing guitar at the age of nine and was taught locally. She feels she has no musical influences but added: "Sixties music is my favourite. I love Joni Mitchell. However, I've always really done my own thing and written my own songs."

She lived in New York for 2 years and travelled across North America, performing in bars. She then moved to Rome, taught conversational English, and was an au pair before returning home. Miss Fountain is now considering moving to London, to pursue her dream of becoming a star.

For a booking, she can be contacted on 07968 225298.