A former music teacher from Wrexham has been inspired by a part-time language course to write and perform his own songs in French, Italian, and Spanish. Paul Fisher, a former teacher at St Christopher’s School in the city, showcased his talents this week at Coleg Cambria Yale by performing several of his new compositions, including his French songs Où Sont Passés Ces Jours (Where Have Those Days Gone) and Mon Coeur est Ouvert (My Heart is Open).
Paul, who has a long history of playing harmonica, keyboard, and guitar with local bands, has recently turned his attention back to his “great passion” for solo music. His decision to start writing songs in different languages came after enrolling in a part-time Conversational French course at Cambria College.
“It was fantastic to get up in front of students and staff at the college and perform my compositions,” said Paul, who is now also composing in Italian and Spanish. His work on constructing a quality set list, which included his own creations, helped him learn new languages and add songs to his repertoire in French, Italian, and Spanish.
Paul explained that his first attempt at writing a foreign-language song was in French, and it was recorded at Amp Studios in Wrexham – the same place where he made his first recording years ago. With only basic French at the time – enough to order a baguette and pain au chocolat – Paul knew he needed help to improve his pronunciation for singing in the language. After signing up for the French course, he found the support he needed to refine his skills.
“The course really helped me raise my game,” he said. “The tutor was instrumental in encouraging me to start writing my own songs in French. I found singing and playing was a great way to pick up the language. It was a creative development I wouldn’t have undertaken without the support and the amazing atmosphere at the college.”
Paul’s performances were well received by both students and staff, with Mel Henry, Curriculum Director at Yale Sixth, praising his journey. “Paul’s story is amazing, and it’s wonderful to hear how our team and peers have inspired him. His performance was incredible, and we’re excited to hear more from him in different languages in the future.”
Paul Fisher’s new musical direction has not only enhanced his love for languages but has also encouraged others to pursue their passions later in life. His success story exemplifies how continued learning can open up creative possibilities, leading to personal and artistic growth.
Coleg Cambria’s languages programme continues to attract adult learners, with many students enjoying the flexible and supportive environment it offers. For Paul, the course has provided more than just language skills – it has ignited a fresh wave of creativity and a new chapter in his music career.
