So, wow – it’s nearly the end of the year. I’m just about to retire into hibernation – possibly involving a cupboard under the stairs and a whole bunch of shredded newspapers, possibly not – but I just wanted to say an enormous thank you to everyone who made this such a great year. Shattering, but great.
One alternative album, one classical album, learning how not to run my mouth off in interviews (hopefully), a photography project I never thought I’d have the courage to do and finally handing over my novel to a literary agent. And working on the next novel, Transgress/Transcend and Aether.
But aside from a general thank you to everyone who reads this blog and shares it, and the previous ENORMOUS thank you to everyone who made Dark Angels happen – I just wanted to add two more. Because, apparently, it’s the kind of thing you’re allowed to do at Christmas. First, to everyone I’ve met gigging around the country this year – Brighton, Manchester, Norwich, Edinburgh, Dumfries, Cambridge, Oxford, and London, as always – not only for being amazing audiences, but for just being awesome, in general. I’ve had so many wonderful conversations, and received so many kindnesses – transport, places to stay, and more than a few pints – and it’s meant a lot.
Second – this Christmas night will mark the five year anniversary of my brother’s death from brain cancer. It’s not something I like to talk about much in public, though it’s the reason why Ashes exists. But every year I try to raise as much money as possible for the hospice that helped us care for him in the final months – and this year I thought it was time to exploit my genuine terror of heights for a good cause. It’s hard to find words that don’t sound trite or insincere – but I really am grateful, so very grateful, to every person who donated and publicised the fundraiser – so many of whom have only heard my music, or seen me perform – we ended up raising just over £1000. I’ll have to think of something truly horrible to do next year to top that.
I hope everyone reading this finds some degree of peace over the holidays – I advise a large helping of Handel and Bach x
Filed under: alternative music, classical music, oddments, trans