Canadian singer-songwriter Noah Derksen recently performed at the Haus der Musik in Vienna, a venue primarily known as a museum dedicated to Austria’s musical history. Originally from Winnipeg, Noah has built a reputation for his thoughtful songwriting and folk-inspired sound. Despite a hectic evening filled with preparations and performances, Noah was incredibly open and generous during our interview. His genuine warmth and friendliness made it easy to see why audiences connect so deeply with his music. His performance in Vienna highlighted not only his melodies and lyrics but also his ability to create an intimate and welcoming atmosphere wherever he plays. Chief-editor Chiara-Marie Hauser met Noah for a chat about his tour and music.
Noah, how are you feeling? Is this your first time in Vienna?
It’s my first time ever in Vienna, and I’m loving it! I’m absolutely stunned by the architecture. It’s honestly a little overwhelming—in the best way. Coming from Canada, especially Western Canada, which is such a newly developed region, the buildings just don’t have the same history. Here, everything has a story, and you really feel a sense of awe and wonder.
How has touring been so far?
It’s been phenomenal. This is my first headlining tour through Europe—these are my shows, which is terrifying. I’ve been making music professionally for about eight or nine years now, but every show still feels like a risk. You never know if people will show up, especially in a new place.
What’s the most memorable show you’ve played so far?
This one in Vienna, obviously! Every show has been amazing, but the funniest one was probably our second show of the tour in Cologne. It was in the world’s smallest bar, and the previous promoter had canceled about two months before. The venue could only fit about 80 people, and we sold it out, it was completely cramped! The decor was hilarious, with flowers growing from the ceiling. But honestly, all the shows have been incredible. We’re blown away by how receptive European audiences are. People come to the shows with the intention of listening to music and engaging, which makes it so much more fun.
Do you have any pre-show rituals?
I always warm up my voice. I had a small vocal injury over the summer, so now I don’t mess around, I blow into a straw for a good 10 minutes, stretch my tongue, and do all the necessary vocal exercises. Touring can be a whirlwind, just getting to the venue and everything. Yesterday in Stuttgart, we had a day off, but our drummer had cut his finger and needed a tetanus shot, so he spent the whole day waiting in the hospital—I didn’t (laughs). It can get hectic, and there’s not always much free time, so I try to take a moment before the show to pause and remind myself to be present with the band. The most beautiful part of making music is being in the moment with other people, and that’s why touring is really the best part of it all.
Growing up in Winnipeg, how has the local music scene influenced your sound and songwriting?
It’s had a huge influence. I lived in Vancouver for university until 2016, which is when I started writing songs. But after that, I moved back to Winnipeg, and the music scene there is so special, it’s full of phenomenal artists. I think it has something to do with the cold, the bitter winter cold. People are forced to retreat, create art, and come together. There’s a strong sense of community, which has definitely made me a better musician because everyone is so open and supportive.
You’ve got a new album coming out soon, tell us about it and your inspiration behind it.
Yes! We’re releasing it on February 19th. It’s an album of covers called Stolen Serenades. It’s a collection of songs that have shaped me as a songwriter over the years, some of the first songs I ever listened to, whether on road trips with my parents or when I was just starting out as a musician. We reinterpreted these songs with the band in Winnipeg, and I’m really excited for people to hear it!
With everything going on in the world, music can be an escape, especially for younger people. Is there something you’d like to say to them?
Reality can feel distorted through social media, it’s easy to lose sight of all the good things when the weirdest and loudest voices often take over. I think any escape into community is important. That’s what I try to do, focus on the people around me and figure out what I can do to improve my own little world. Songwriting has always helped me organize my thoughts and feelings.
We thank Noah for his time and for putting on such a moving show that left us excited for his new album and following tours! And also a big thank you to his team and management who made this interview possible!
Here you can listen to Chiara’s favourite song by Noah
