Hinge and Bracket - Musical Pedigree of The Performers

Musical Pedigree of The Performers

Both George Logan and Patrick Fyffe were born into musically talented families with a strong stage background. Logan went on to study music at the Royal Scottish Academy of Music and Drama in Glasgow and attended Glasgow University. Fyffe appeared in amateur theatre before turning professional.

In a 2007 television interview, George Logan explains that both he and Fyffe had been boy sopranos, and found themselves able to produce a falsetto voice after puberty. Patrick Fyffe's falsetto voice was additionally gifted with the full rounded tones of a mezzo soprano, and capable of producing some rousing high notes in performance. His vocal interpretations demonstrated profound emotional connection with the songs, and with his audience.

George Logan, who claims not to have seen himself as a singer in the same vein, nevertheless projected a light quavering soprano of clarion tone, and admirable breath control in the "patter" songs, whilst simultaneously providing the piano accompaniment. Though formally trained as a classical pianist, he also has the ability to play by ear, and used both skills to the benefit of the act. In many instances the material performed by Hinge and Bracket required transposition to a different key or other special musical arrangement.

Thus, the inspiration for Dr Hinge’s character as a serious musician came from Logan's formal musical background. Similarly, Patrick Fyffe's affinity with musical comedy and operetta informed the character of Dame Hilda. This meshing of the two areas of interest allowed the act to explore and exploit many different areas of the vocal music repertoire.