Ali Interprets for Fans in Cardiff

Ali Gordon, a 59-year-old sign language interpreter from London, recently had the opportunity to interpret for US singer-songwriter Billy Joel at the Principality Stadium. Introduced to Joel's music through her girlfriend, Lesley, Gordon initially had reservations about the artist but has since developed a deep appreciation for his work. She described the experience of interpreting iconic songs like "Piano Man," "Uptown Girl," and "Just the Way You Are" as a privilege. With nearly 20 years of interpreting experience, including five years at live music events, Gordon emphasized the complexity of her role. She explained that interpreting music goes beyond merely translating lyrics; it involves capturing the rhythm, beat, and emotional intensity of the performance. "It's about embodying the music and the lyrics," she stated, highlighting the importance of facial expressions and body language in conveying the essence of the songs. Gordon advocates for accessibility in live performances, stressing that the deaf community deserves to enjoy cultural experiences just like everyone else. She meticulously prepares for each performance by understanding the rhythm and tone of the music before determining how to sign the lyrics. On the night of the concert, she collaborated with another interpreter, dividing the songs to ensure a comprehensive representation of Joel's work. Ultimately, Gordon expressed her gratitude for the opportunity to connect the deaf audience with Billy Joel's music, stating, "It is just a real privilege to get down and dirty with Billy Joel's lyrics."