FOR Walthamstow singer/songwriter Haydn Corrodus it was a trip to watch the London Symphony Orchestra as a teenager that cemented his ambition to follow a career in music.

“I was literally in shock, I could have stayed there all evening, it was a amazing,” the 26-year-old says.

Now one-fourth of the live hip-hop/indie band The Stow, Haydn has dedicated himself entirely to his dream after giving up his job in retail and forming the band in January.

“Music drives me,” the former solo artist enthuses. “It’s my every waking thought and I needed to give it a proper push.”

Comprising of Haydn, lead vocalist and songwriter Shi Shi, drummer Will and guitarist Matt, The Stow have already performed at Rough Trade East, Embassy London, 93 Feet East the Earls Court Festival, North by West Festival and Waltham Forest Festival.

I caught up with Haydn as the band prepare for the London finals of a nationwide competition to support VV Brown on tour at Barfly, in Camden.

What was the first single you bought?

Do the Bart Man What have you learnt most about being in the band?

That I love music but still have so much to learn. I have always produced music through a computer but these guys are the real deal, it makes me thirsty to learn more.

What do you love best about Walthamstow?

That it’s such a diverse, vibrant area.

Were you a fan of Walthamstow’s famous residents East17?

Sorry, I was a Take That fan.

What song do you sing in the shower?

Probably The Stow, You Don’t Know Me Tell me about Shi Shi She calms us down, she is fun and quirky and the most settled.

Who has the worst habits in the band?

Will, he can’t stop farting, but he is one of the funniest people I have ever met.

Who is the biggest flirt?

Will chips in: Haydn, definitely, he is a bit of a ladies’ man, Haydn: It’s all lies, I’m scared of women (laughs) If you could be anyone for a day who would it be?

Former President Bush. I would like to know what goes on inside his head.

How would you describe The Stow in three words?

(After much deliberation between Haydn and Will) Musicality, live and energy.

The Stow perform at Barfly, Camden, London on October 2, 7.30pm. For more details and to download The Stow’s new ep visit www.myspace.com/thestow