I like this.

Chloe sent me this poem I think there is a lot of truth in it.

by Arthur O’Shaughnessy [1844-1881]
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We are the music-makers, And we are the dreamers of dreams, Wandering by lone sea-breakers, And sitting by desolate streams; World-losers and world-forsakers, On whom the pale moon gleams: Yet we are the movers and shakers Of the world for ever, it seems
With wonderful deathless ditties We build up the world's great cities. And out of a fabulous story We fashion art empire's glory: One man with a dream, at pleasure, Shall go forth and conquer a crown; And three with a new song's measure Can trample in empire down.
We, in the ages lying In the buried past of the earth. Built Nineveh with our sighing, And Babel itself with our mirth; And o'erthrew them with prophesying To the old of the new world's worth; For each age is a dream that is dying, Or one that is coming to birth

Tea with the Lord Mayor of London (well almost)

I was invited to the Mayors first Music Education Summit at City hall last week. It was a really interesting day with an impressive guest list ( and me!). The day was divided into forums, seminars and discussion groups, and the small group I was in was lead by the Education manager from the LSO to discuss working with East End schools towards music for the Olympics. Other members of the group were representatives of the 2012 committee, the BBC, other London orchestras and the Arts Council ( and me!). I learned a lot from the day, and renewed acquaintances and met some interesting contacts.

Boris (the Mayor) was due to arrive at six to give out the Music Amnesty awards, but I had to get home for a rehearsal so missed him!.

What's happening?

I am very aware I haven't blogged for a while. this is mainly for domestic reasons, but also a lot of work, but things have eased off a bit so here I am ( Sorry Roz will try to blog more).

Musically things are still happening, I always find January a time to get enthusiastic about new projects once you have finished sweeping up after Christmas.

I have just completed my third book of the new "Red Hot Dots" song library. It was a great relief to post it off this morning. The first three books are Warm ups, Rounds, and Finale's and openers.

There are twenty songs in each. and three more books to come. I am hoping all six will be published by the summer. All come with piano accompaniment and a backing CD.

This is the time of year when I start wanting to write a flashy harmonica piece for Chris to play, and now I have a little break in proceedings I think I may do that. It would also be nice to write something for Martha for her A level recital.

Actually the birds were singing this morning, and there are a few bulbs coming up in the garden. Perhaps this is why I feel inspired... maybe we are all starting to come out of hibernation.

Happy new year!!!

2008 had ups and downs, but generally presented very much to be thankful for. As this is supposed to be a musical blog I thought I would think of ten musical highlights.

(in no particular order)

The National harmonica championships

The Sarah Watts banner at the NAME conference

Chloe coming second in her years conducting exam

Martha's first solo gig at "Gloria Jeans"

Chloe texting to say my books were in the window of a London music shop I found intimidating as a student

Martha playing Oboe and Cor in "My Fair Lady*

Rake's OCTUBA FEST

Music Camp

John and Cleo's Christmas galas

Sparkling Songz for Starter choirs/Angel Voices/Christmas Piano Pizzazz/Band in a book 2

Probably lots more, but I'm a bit tired after too much new years eve!.