‘The singing profession can be precarious, as the last few years have reminded us’

Claudia Boyle performs at Pavilion Theatre, Dún Laoghaire on Friday, January 13th, with pianist Finghin Collins in Loss, Love & Laughter, an evening of opera, piano and song. Further details from www.paviliontheatre.ie

Are you a saver or a spender?

A bit of both. The singing profession can be precarious as the last few years have reminded us all, so it’s good to be conscious of that. Not too conscious, though – life is still for living. A healthy balance.

Do you shop around for better value?

On the Money: the personal finance newsletter from The Irish Times

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‘I lost €1,000 in cash on the way to the bank to lodge it. Someone in Dún Laoghaire had a big win that day’

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Yes, definitely. My rule of thumb is always to get three different price quotes. I can go down dangerous rabbit holes in this pursuit but, if it saves a few euro, I feel vindicated.

What has been your most extravagant purchase and how much did it cost?

When I was a student I bought a small tub of Creme de la Mer. It was the size of a lip balm and €100. Notions!

What purchase have you made that you consider the best value for money?

My white baby grand piano. I don’t think there’s a better focal point in a room and every day it brings me joy both to play and look at. My two children go up and tinkle on the keys, and we have “twinkle, twinkle little star” singalongs. The gift of music in a home – that’s priceless.

How did you prefer to shop during the Covid-19 restrictions – online or local?

I always got out to our local Aldi and Lidl during the restrictions. Even a short browse down the magical mystery aisle made me feel a bit more human. I say that, but it’s still true now with no restrictions.

Do you haggle over prices?

Yes, definitely. I started that when we bought our first house eight years ago. There’s no harm in asking – what’s the worst that can happen?

How has the Covid-19 crisis changed your spending habits?

It hasn’t really changed my habits, I don’t think. The older I get, though, I’m conscious to buy quality over quantity, especially with clothes. Something you really like may cost a bit more but you’ll use it and keep it.

Do you invest in shares?

No.

Cash or card?

Like everyone else, I’m sure, the card on my phone nearly pays for everything these days. Very handy. I still use cash from time to time, though. It’s nice to have a non-digital transaction here and there, when you haven’t been tracked or traced.

What was the last thing you bought and was it a good value for money?

I bought a giant wooden dollhouse for my little girl, Blossom, for Christmas. Actually, Santa got the elves to make it! Christmases have got so much better since my babies were born – Blossom is three years of age and George is one.

Have you ever successfully saved up for a relatively big purchase?

Our first home. We saved for the deposit and all the things you need when you move in. It’s probably everyone’s biggest purchase. It felt great. We were very lucky with the timing. We were renting but our landlord needed to sell, so it forced us to get out there and buy at a time when it was semi-reasonable. You need a bit of luck sometimes.

Have you ever lost money?

I had my wallet stolen when I was on stage in Ulster Hall, Belfast, about 15 years ago. A guy just walked into our dressingroom and took everything. Since then, I always insist on a dressingroom key. You can’t be too careful. It hurt at the time but was a good lesson to learn.

Are you a gambler and if so have you ever had a big win?

Not really. I do the Lotto here and there, but that’s about it. If I’m ever in a casino – the last time was about eight years ago – I’d play roulette just for the fun of it. A few games with a euro on each number. Low stakes high fun. How it should be.

Is money important to you?

Not specifically, but providing for my children is, so in that regard, yes.

How much money do you have on you now?

None. Just my trusty phone. Technology is amazing.

in conversation with Tony Clayton-Lea