News
I've spent the majority of my time this year in completing the writing for my new album which focusses on the futility of war, as seen in Afghanistan. The complete project includes the vocal setting of 'On This Day' (see below) and I'm toying with the idea of calling this album by the same title, so poignant is it..... Percussionist Bev Cullen adds depth to the orchestral arrangements with her sensitive playing (already completed), and Soprano Saxophonist Casey Greene will be on duty again on 4 of the instrumental tracks, and these are being recorded at the beginning of July. Somehow through the holiday season I'd like to find time to mix this lot down into something resembling a finished article.... Grand plans for the project include a live recording with full string orchestra, chamber choir, solo soprano, sax, percussion and band. Oh, and me on piano and synths! If you remember the epics from Rick Wakeman in the 70s, you'll think I've got delusions of grandeur lol. All this I'm hoping will be in conjunction with the war memorial at the National Arboretum in Alrewas, Staffordshire, where we can commemorate our soldiers who gaves their lives so that we may live ours.
Recording my new piece 'Cornishe' for soprano sax and string quartet is pretty much organised now, so look out for it on the listening pages; it's set for the 19th of July.
Through my teachings via the Forest Arts Centre in Walsall, I have written some new works for the Wider Opportunites strings. These pieces are simple yet effective and designed to encourage the youngsters through pattern based playing and simple reading. The first piece can even be taught by rote (no reading required) !
Between Easter and July I completed a work for Solo Treble/Soprano, Soprano Saxophone and Female choir, intended for my next album and called On This Day. This was recorded towards the end of July at Emmanuel Church in Wylde Green, Sutton Coldfield with friends. The fruits of our labours can be found here. I've just got to say a HUGE thank you to everyone who turned up on the day to make it at all possible. Here's a little film I've put together of informal piccies taken on the day by one of my friends singing in the choir
Quicktime (mov) 7MB
Next project is a string quartet with soprano sax. I'm so predictable at the moment; I'm in love with the blessed instrument!!!
G
