Marco Marconi - in conversation

My last pre-lockdown gig was listening to the marvellous Marco Marconi at The Pheasantry: it was inevitable that I should ask him to join me for an episode of Harmonious World.

Downbeat Magazine finalist Mark Wade in conversation

It was a delight to hear bassist Mark Wade play with pianist Marco Marconi in February and an honour that he agreed to be interviewed for episode 9 of the Harmonious World podcast.

    Mark has been a finalist in the Downbeat Magazine Reader's Poll three times and he's nominated again this year. He really is extraordinarily talented and his new release - Songs from Lockdown - is well worth a listen.

    Hope you enjoy the podcast.

Chatting with guitarist Rob Luft

While in Albania, preparing for  a few early, outdoor gigs in Europe, guitarist Rob Luft found time to chat.

    It turns out we both hate the shuffle function. Listen to the latest episode of Harmonious World to hear more.

Plastic free July - starting as I mean to go on.

I've been aiming to cut my plastic consumption and do lots of litter picking to celebrate #plasticfreejuly. Every small change can make a big difference.

    Every dog walk becomes a chance to collect some litter.

Back in the museum life

I was delighted to see that North Herts Museum was open once more.

    As I stepped through the door, I was welcomed with a little track and trace form filling, hand sanitiser and then a solo guided tour. It was a total delight. Followed up with a socially-distanced cup of peppermint tea.

    There's so much to see in the museum. The ground floor features an impressive collection of artefacts arranged in chronological order. There is also a special exhibition space, which is currently filled withe the most inspirational Rembrandt sketches. The first floor galleries are arranged more thematically - all carefully curated and presented. A wonderful space.

Cellist Inbal Segev - interviewed for Harmonious World

I'm loving my podcasting life.

    My latest episode of Harmonious World features an interview with cellist Inbal Segev.

Day two of stealth mode

Walking the dog this morning made me realise how many people have already decided lockdown is over.

    I have to observe a strict 2m social distancing rule. For many people, walking right past, completely oblivious, is the order of the day. I don't expect them to change what they're doing but if it's obvious I'm standing back to let them pass, it would be nice if they kept away.

    Still, at least I can go out and about, even if it is only once a day and all in the great outdoors.