Laine Mansfield is captivating audiences with her music

Born and raised?

All of my ten years have been in Charlotte!

Career?

Fifth grader and aspiring musician!

What does it feel like to perform?

When I get on stage, I feel a kick from within, an excitement; I know when I get up there, I want to do really well. And I can’t wait to be in front of the audience - it’s all I think about while I am waiting to perform.

How did you start performing?

One of my first performances was for the talent show at my school, Selwyn Elementary. I was eight when I first played there. The talent show made me realize how much I love singing; singing fills me with energy.

How often do you perform at The Evening Muse?

I play the first Wednesday of every month. The show starts at 8 PM, and I usually play around 8:30 PM. They let the performers who are still in school perform earlier.

How do you decide what to play on stage?

Since I only get to play one song at The Evening Muse, I think of songs that I really like and want to learn. I then practice for the performance. Sometimes my dad will make a suggestion like he did with Stone Temple Pilots.

Who is your guitar teacher?

John Tosco, Founder of the Tosco Music Parties.

How did you meet John Tosco?

My dad has a friend whose daughter sings and they introduced me to The Evening Muse. John is the host of Tosco Music Open Mic which is held there on the first Wednesday of every month. We went to see the performers there several times before I eventually got on stage myself.

Are there many kids who play at The Evening Muse?

I am usually one of the youngest performers at The Evening Muse, if not the youngest.

Do you also have a voice coach?

Yes, I started working with a voice coach, Alexis Bruce of Charlotte Star Room, every other week about two years ago.

There’s a rumor that you sang all over a cruiseship?

Yes! During a cruise to the British Isles with my grandparents and family, I discovered karaoke. I performed every single night of that cruise. While singing, I met a girl who played the ukulele and decided that I wanted to play too. I knew then that I wanted to play an instrument and sing at the same time.

What is your first memory of singing?

When I was three years old, we went to Disney World. After hearing a song from Annie, I grabbed a flower to use as a microphone and started singing the song on my own. I didn’t care about who was watching or listening. I just loved singing.

Where do you get your musical talents from?

My grandmother’s brother was a performer. I think that’s where I get my stage presence from.

What do you think performing and singing has done for your development?

I definitely have become more passionate and more confident in all areas of my life; not just singing. I feel excited about so much and want to do so much. And I never get scared or worried about giving presentations at school or speaking in front of my class.

Any advice for other performers?

The afraid inside of you can help you; nothing bad can happen. You only have the opportunity to learn each time.

What does it feel like to be on stage?

The time on stage goes by so quickly because it’s so much fun. I cannot wait to get on stage. But I do not want to be the first performer. I like when I am the third to sing.

Any thoughts about writing your own music?

Right now I am focusing on learning to play guitar, ukulele, and sing. But writing will definitely be in my future.

What are some of your favorite songs to sing?

“Stay with Me” by Sam Smith

“Bright” by Echosmith

“Valerie” by Amy Winehouse

“Jolene” by Dolly Parton

“Hallelujah”

“Riptide” by Vance Joy

Where can we listen to your music?

I have posted some songs on Youtube. You can view me singing at the Evening Muse here.

How often do you practice singing and playing?

Usually three times a week or whenever I can fit it in. Since I play for Charlotte Junior Soccer and have homework, I can’t practice everyday. But when I can practice, I feel the most relaxed.

What do you want to be when you grow up?

A musician! And I would also love to get into acting.

When you are not singing, what do you like to do?

I play on a soccer team and hangout with friends. And I love to bake!

Have you ever recorded a song?

Yes, with my voice coach. I have also recorded in my dad’s friend’s studio. Recording is really exciting!

Tell us about your family:

My family consists of my mom, dad, 12 year old brother, one dog, two cats, two turtles, and one hamster.

Ukulele or guitar?

I like them both equally! Even though the ukulele is easier, I love playing the guitar. I take guitar lessons once a week.

Favorite musicians?

Taylor Swift and One Direction!

Favorite flicks?

Stranger Things on Netflix: I loved this series and couldn’t wait to watch every episode of the first season; I had a friend audition for the show which I think is pretty cool. I also love Glee because I have discovered songs that I want to learn from watching the show. And I love any musical movies.

What’s something we would be surprised to learn about you?

I think a sound better when I play in front of an audience than when practicing.

What are you afraid of?

My dad getting hurt. When he hiked Mt. Rainier in Washington last year, I was pretty worried about him. He likes to be daring, like swimming really far out into the ocean.

Favorite vacation?

I loved when we traveled to Mexico. But my favorite, favorite vacation was when we canoed the Okefenokee Swamp for 23 miles, starting in Georgia and ending in Florida. We slept in tents on platforms along the swamp. I loved watching all the alligators in the water.

Favorite food?

Steak and mashed potatoes. Oh, and candy and baked goods too!

Favorite store?

J.Crew

Any last thoughts?

Come see me at The Evening Muse!