Andre's Blog
Artist: James Taylor
Posted on May 24, 2009
Have been listening to the chrystalline beauty of singer-songwriter James Taylor’s recent compilation album. Quite apart from the fact that this is probably the definitive collection of all his greatest hits, it is a beautiful example of how great poetry and lyricism can combine with pure acoustic artistry to produce a complete and fulfilling musical experience without relying on clever electronic sampling. An aural kaleidoscope.
Artist: Michel van Dyke
Posted on May 16, 2009
Have been enjoying Dutch songwriter Michel van Dyke’s 2004 album “Bossa Nova.” Less an example of bossa nova and more a retro-stylistic mix of slightly melancholy lounge and cool Latin pop, this is a highly listenable album, even though it is all sung in German! Some light bossa nova influences do filter through, however, if you listen closely enough. Great album, and one I never tire of listening to.
Artist: Earl Okin
Posted on May 14, 2009
One of the more talented songwriters I have recently become acquainted with is the very experienced UK entertainer Earl Okin, who is largely unknown here in New Zealand. Okin is a well-known entertainer in England sought after for his talents as a musician/comedian, and while I am unfamiliar with the comedic side of his work, as a lover of bossa nova I am particularly taken with his songwriting ability in the classic bossa nova style. The particular example I have in mind is the song "Butterflies" from Okin's album "Songs From a Garden Shed" (which can be purchased online at AmieStreet.com). I was struck by the song's simple beauty (chord structure, melody, and gentle rhythm), and after listening to it a number of times I also became intrigued as to what inspired Earl to write the song, as the lyrics (which I do not usually pay a great deal of attention to) also struck a chord with me, so I wrote to him about it. Earl's reply is, in part, reproduced here below.
"'Butterflies' was, as usual with me, inspired by a chord. In this case, the D major 7th chord with which it begins. It seemed to lead to other interesting chords and that's what led to the song. When I'd completed the song, I needed a lyric. I had a friend called Roberto Corte-Real in Brazil, sadly now deceased, who once told me that the famous beach in Rio De Janeiro is artificial. Before the war, the beach was comparatively tiny. Mostly, there were petal-coloured little houses, each with their own sandy-soil garden, going right up to the edge of the sea and among the flowers and plants that grew in these gardens, butterflies could be seen. They are, of course, no longer there. Then, as you say, the metaphor occurred to me."
The story behind the lyrics is touching and is one that can be told many times over around the world as man continues to wreak havoc with the natural environment. In the context of this song, however, these subjects are merely peripheral. As touching as it is (metaphoric references notwithstanding), the merits of the song itself (that is, the melody, chords, and rhythm) as an example of the classic bossa nova style are much more significant than its accompanying lyrics.
To be introduced to or reacquainted with the original bossa nova sound, the definitive album to buy would be Getz/Gilberto, featuring Stan Getz, Joao Gilberto, and Antonio Carlos Jobim. Recorded in 1963, the album is available on CD through Verve Music Group, catalogue number 0602498840221. I highly recommend this album.
Artist: Adrian Stuckey
Posted on May 13, 2009
Listening to music by Kiwi musical genius Adrian Stuckey, who these days heads his Bignote Productions Recording Studio on the Gold Coast of Australia. Adrian was one of the musical 'brains' behind New Zealand Idol and is an extremely gifted musician and audio engineer. Adrian and I go way back but somehow our musical paths have rarely crossed. His album "Rhythm of Love" is probably best described as a cruisy mix of techno-funk and Latin, and while very cleverly mastered, it is also gives a very revealing glimpse into the natural skills of probably one of New Zealand's most talented professional musicians. A limited edition album available only to a selected few. :-)
BPW Conference
Posted on May 1, 2009
Had a very successful evening’s performance at Copthorne Resort Solway Park for the NZ Federation of Business and Professional Women's 70th Anniversary and annual conference. Movie themes were very popular. Special guests were MP John Hayes, Masterton Mayor Garry Daniell, South Wairarapa Mayor Adrienne Staples and guest speaker Theresa Gattung (once ranked 49 on the Forbes list of “The World’s 100 Most Powerful Women”). They all loved the music. Now looking forward to tomorrow night’s gig!
Movie Themes
Posted on April 30, 2009
Compiling a repertoire of movie theme music to perform at a corporate function tomorrow night which has movies as its theme. Just added The Godfather Theme (Nino Rota). I was familiar with the tune but don’t recall having ever played it… until a few moments ago. Beautiful tune, now committed to memory, with a refreshing key change in the middle. Remember the theme from A Summer Place (Max Steiner)? I don’t recall ever seeing the film, but the theme music remains one of the most melodic melodies of the 1960’s. The most popular version was recorded by Percy Faith, which earned him a Grammy Award in 1961. A Summer Place was the first movie theme and the first instrumental to win a Record of the Year Grammy.
Steinway Grand Patently Lacking
Posted on April 29, 2009
Inspected the Steinway Patent Grand piano at Masterton Town Hall to ensure it was of an acceptable playing standard before Saturday night’s performance. Somewhat lacklustre for a Steinway. I was informed that the instrument had recently had extensive maintenance and tuning for last weekend’s performance with Dame Malvina Major. I wonder how the pianist managed that night. I found this particular Steinway wanting and doubt that it has been given the attention it needs. The bass and extreme treble were clear enough, but the midrange notes lacked volume and tonal clarity, and the action left something to be desired. Overall, it was hard work making this instrument sing.
Kaumatua Ball 2009
Posted on April 29, 2009
Have been requested to perform at a Kaumatua Ball on Saturday evening, with renowned NZ entertainer Sir Howard Morrison present as special guest.
Artist: Getz/Gilberto
Posted on April 29, 2009
Listening to Getz/Gilberto, the classic bossa nova album which became one of the best-selling jazz albums of all times. Getz/Gilberto spent 96 weeks in the charts and won four Grammys. It remains one of those rare cases in popular music where commercial success matches artistic merit. How I hadn’t discovered this album before now still boggles me. A must-have for all lovers of bossa nova in its purest form.
Kurzweil PC3x
Posted on April 23, 2009
Got the Kurzweil PC3x on my mind. A very desirable instrument but alas not affordable.
Declined Music Director Position
Posted on April 20, 2009
Was approached by a local theatre company to consider being music director for an upcoming production but have decided to decline the position due to other commitments.
Trentham Gardens Wedding
Posted on March 28, 2009
Back home, tired but satisfied after providing an evening’s music to yet another very appreciative group of wedding guests in Wellington.
Selecting Music for Wedding
Posted on March 27, 2009
Selecting music to play at a wedding function at Trentham Gardens in Wellington tomorrow.
Referral Bookings
Posted on March 26, 2009
Just accepted a referral booking for a corporate function. Word of mouth is still one of the best forms of advertising.
Gear Homestead Wedding
Posted on March 22, 2009
Back home after an enjoyable afternoon in Wellington performing to a very appreciative wedding party at the historic Gear Homestead. Did not include pan-flute performance due to inadequate acoustics.
Recording and Mixing Piano Backing
Posted on March 21, 2009
Recording and mixing a piano backing soundtrack for a selection of songs to include live performance on pan-flute at a wedding at Gear Homestead in Papakowhai, Wellington, tomorrow.
Pacific Songwriting Competition
Posted on March 17, 2009
Didn’t place in the Pacific Songwriting Competition but received some constructive feedback from the judges regarding one of my songs. See Songwriting page.
Booking Cancellation
Posted on March 12, 2009
Just received a last-minute booking cancellation. People are tightening their belts.
AMI Summer Symphony
Posted on March 4, 2009
Have been given 6 x tickets to Vector Wellington Orchestra’s AMI Summer Symphony at the Basin Reserve.
Relay for Life concert
Posted on February 28, 2009
Heading down to the venue to finalise set-up for tonight’s late-night performance. And it’s raining hard.