I enjoyed performing for the 10th Southern Hemisphere Feltmakers Convergence Fashion Parade at Copthorne Resort Solway Park in Masterton this evening. Very much a wearable-arts type of affair, with a request for music to match the wide variety of styles and themes that were worn by the various models.

This was a challenging gig which kept me on my toes as I was practically improvising and creating music on the spot for each of the 50 models as they appeared, without any warning as to what to expect! For the first time ever I discarded my repertoire as it was no use to me, but judging by feedback during and after my performance, the music was enjoyed very much, and I had a lot of fun!

On 2 May 2009 I had the opportunity to perform at an evening with Sir Howard Morrison for over 150 distinguished guests (including the region’s mayors) at the Kaumatua Ball 2009 held at the Masterton Town Hall. To my great surprise, Sir Howard gave me a standing ovation for my lively interpretation of Cole Porter’s “Begin the Beguine.” The song had clearly delighted him.

After I had concluded playing for the evening, I had the opportunity to sit and chat with Sir Howard for a while prior to his own performance. I asked Sir Howard whether he was going to be singing later in the evening, to which he replied, “Yes, and I brought along a backing CD, but then I didn’t know they were going to have someone like you playing!”

Sir Howard was being gracious; his backing track was far more suited to his performance than a single piano accompaniment, but I gladly joined the other guests to enjoy what was the highlight of this special occasion.

It was hinted that there may be an opportunity to perform together again in the near future. Sadly, that wasn't to be. Sir Howard Morrison passed away at his Rotorua home on 24 September, aged 74.