Harmonious World goes live

It's live! My brand new podcast - Harmonious World - is available now. You can find the trailer on most podcast platforms.

I'll be interviewing musicians, composers and creative producers and the first interview goes live on 1 June.

I had the pleasure of interviewing Laila Biali as my first guest. Her latest album - Out of Dust - is a joy. That episode goes live on 1 June 2020.

The inspiration for the title is a Quincy Jones quote. He's a truly inspirational man who uses music and language to communicate with millions of people around the world. He has a great sense of humanity and of humour. I met him briefly, several years ago, and I never cease to be amazed by his ability to express so much of what makes music great.

I'll be interviewing more musicians - if you'd like to be a guest (or have someone to nominate as a guest), just comment below or message me on social media.

Avishai and Avishai - doing it in duplicate

What a great album this is. Playing The Room is simply stunning. Read my review on kindofjazz.com

Motivation and resilience

While out walking (to exercise Zach and myself), I've been considering what makes me tick. Why can I motivate myself and bounce back from negative experiences?

    I know many people who are struggling with the lockdown and all aspects of the COVID-19 pandemic. Although I've lost work and hence income, I'm still managing to get up and keep going. Sometimes I wonder what it is about my personality that gives me this resilience.

    Sometimes it's quite annoying to be always 'glass half-full' - I think it annoys others, too. I'm sorry about that, but it's part of who I am.

    A client recently terminated our agreement without giving me the notice we were contracted for. Although it was a significant blow, I simply decided that, if he wished to start up again after lockdown is eased, I would walk away. Taking that control (even if he has no idea of my decision) instantly made me feel better. I may have less money, but I have my dignity!

    So, I hope I continue to be motivated and resilient - albeit without annoying those around me.

Out in the great outdoors - again

The thing about lockdown is the need to fill time and I'm fortunate to live so close to the great outdoors.

    Exercise is allowed under the regime that was introduced in the UK in mid-March 2020, so I'm taking advantage of the great outdoors every day. For as long as possible.

    Zach - my 19-month old Borador - loves the long walks and I fear he'll be hugely disappointed when time becomes more limited and walks become shorter.

    Meanwhile, we can enjoy this view most mornings. There are worse ways to spend 90 minutes.