Projects, dreams, maybe something simple or maybe something huge. I wonder have you ever walked down a path to do something where you were driven and really went for it? I have two to share today, one happened in the space of a half-hour early this morning, and the other has taken over a year. …
I’m sharing a smile today, because I have one to share and I can. The other day I made music- live-streamed. I was really surprised when I watched my concert (played to an empty hall and a camera) to discover I was *this happy*, even in that very unusual situation with no audience, no feedback, …
Every year I give a recital, and this year’s concert is next week. The other day a friend asked, ‘What if it was tomorrow? Would that be ok?’ -well, yes, but that doesn’t mean I’m done practising. In fact I tend to wake up early and take my time in the wee hours before the …
I’m getting ready for a concert on Thursday, November 19, 7:30pm GMT. Practise, practise, practise as my beloved teacher used to say. late night, early morning – whenever I can fit it in. Every year I give a recital and every year it is significant for me in some way. Last year I documented a …
To supplement one of my university classes, I compiled interviews with professional musicians (performers and conductors) on the topic of Romantic Music. They total nearly 50 mins, and I suggest you give yourself a few different sessions to listen, take it all in, and make some comments. I’ll do my best to reply to any …
You know, I wake up early. All summer I caught the sunrise and it was wonderful. There is something truly sublime about the dawn and I very much enjoy being here in the countryside and waking up with the birds and the light. Yesterday when I woke up I saw, out the window, the setting …
The past week has been increasingly turbulent as the start of the academic semester approached. Lots was happening in my work and personal life and instead of riding the wave or even treading water, there were moments when I was sure I was beginning to feel the undertow. Yesterday I was reminded of the need …
Back to school, COVID time, nothing is normal but suddenly it’s very busy. This morning was no exception: Day 3 of school for my son and in a groggy voice at 7:11 am he deliberately formed the words ‘mummy, I need an apron. Do we have one?’ Product design? Food tech? I’m not sure which, …
Just over eight months ago, right at the beginning of th ecalendar year, I was called in to the university during the break between semesters to teach a postgraduate / staff development session. It was the first week of January. Out of that session came a very inspired lady and I gave her a violin. …
Yesterday I did one of my favourite things. I went with my daughter to gather apples from the tree outside the Chapel at my university. It is something I have done for 20 years. -and that tree keeps producing and baking and peeling and eating those apples. So good. Let me tell you the story …