So hungover. Not the best time to play 12 gigs. We did though; Greg, Gemma, Soul and myself played 12 gigs in a day for charity, helped considerably by Louise and Malcolm.
Playing trad-folk songs, with Christmassy bits, the schedule was tight but we became a well-oiled machine by the end of it. Very quickly, here's how it went:
Gig one: tiniest cafe, owner wasn't in and staff didn't know we were coming. Played anyway and they loved it.
Gig two: 3 audience members, awkward.
Gig three: 2 audience members, awkward.
Gig four: Busy pub, better performance, pretty girl behind the bar recognised me from Thursday's gig. We did well.
Gig five: Room full of thugs, who mocked our folkiness but gave generously at the end.
Gig six: Amazing venue, amazing staff, amazing audience, great performance.
Gig seven: Packed, venue had forgotten about us but we felt welcome anyway. Brilliant show.
Gig eight: Perfection. Best venue ever, warmest reception, everyone on side, all of it - brilliant.
Gig nine: Punters a bit rough around the edges but we're on fire now.
Gig ten: BBC performance, live on air, pressured but we stormed it.
Gig eleven: Roughest, chaviest audience you could imagine, who heckled a lot but then gave us £70 and treated us like heroes. So bizarre.
Gig twelve: Rowdy, party finale in the right venue. Everyone got it. We stormed it, and then got very drunk with the everyone afterwards.
We made over £500 for the charity in the process, we're all a bit broken by it, but we're doing good things here. Greg and band are wonderful people, I'm very lucky to have met them. Happy Paul.
Monday, 23 December 2019
Saturday 21st December 2019
Party tonight, so up early to panic tidy the house, before popping out to meet up with a new agent. Many things discussed, it's going to be an exciting 2020.
Back, tidied some more, and then tidied the bits that, according to A, I missed, and then a flurry of guests arrived with booze.
We had a lovely time, it was a quieter party than normal because everyone seems to have gone home for Christmas already, but we were never short of good conversation which naturally went on till the early hours...
Back, tidied some more, and then tidied the bits that, according to A, I missed, and then a flurry of guests arrived with booze.
We had a lovely time, it was a quieter party than normal because everyone seems to have gone home for Christmas already, but we were never short of good conversation which naturally went on till the early hours...
Friday 20th December 2019
A proper day off! Which of course means spending a chunk of it in Tescos getting angry because it's so busy and WHY HAVE I LEFT EVERYTHING SO LATE ESPECIALLY BECAUSE I'VE KNOWN ABOUT CHRISTMAS FOR AGES but got there eventually. Also got my car valeted (it's as good as new, now, apart from the noise) and popped into town to buy two coats, one formal, one for every day use. Tried to buy trainers but wasn't grabbed buy any, and my feet are an unusual size.
Home, slept because shopping is exhausting, completed my invoices to parents and then A and myself saw the excellent Hairspray, starring my mate Alan.
Home, slept because shopping is exhausting, completed my invoices to parents and then A and myself saw the excellent Hairspray, starring my mate Alan.
Thursday 19th December 2019
Up early to be a guest on a local radio station, which was glorious (for my ego) as the host clearly likes what I do and let me plug, extensively, all of these projects.
Then over to a different part of town where A and myself had another look at an amazing house and we later put an offer for in for it.
After that it was all about the WAS gig. As always, a long soundcheck and issues with parking, but there was always a sense that this gig was going to be fine, especially after the near-disaster that was the London show.
We had a great night, I mean, kinda cheating because it was mostly Christmas songs and the arrangements were void of any banana skins, but still - playing to over 500 people, with over 100 singers, in a church with tricky acoustics, is still trickier than your average gig. My band buddies, Steve and Will, were both totally on it, and our musical director, Andrea, seemed more relaxed than ever. World-famous percussionist Evelyn was full of praise afterwards and host, Griff Rhys Jones, seemed like such a nice man.
A LONG day, but all worthwhile.
Then over to a different part of town where A and myself had another look at an amazing house and we later put an offer for in for it.
After that it was all about the WAS gig. As always, a long soundcheck and issues with parking, but there was always a sense that this gig was going to be fine, especially after the near-disaster that was the London show.
We had a great night, I mean, kinda cheating because it was mostly Christmas songs and the arrangements were void of any banana skins, but still - playing to over 500 people, with over 100 singers, in a church with tricky acoustics, is still trickier than your average gig. My band buddies, Steve and Will, were both totally on it, and our musical director, Andrea, seemed more relaxed than ever. World-famous percussionist Evelyn was full of praise afterwards and host, Griff Rhys Jones, seemed like such a nice man.
A LONG day, but all worthwhile.
Wednesday 18th December 2019
Pretty much done for the year now with the teaching and, as much as I enjoy it, I'm looking forward to having a short break from it for a few weeks.
The day started with drama as A got rushed into A+E having badly burnt herself on the kettle. Having got her home safely, I then dashed down to the school to watch my drummers play at the Christmas concert. They were all so great today, even the ones who aren't usually, they just all upped their game when their parents were watching...
Taught my final private lesson of the year (it was fine), and then A and myself went to see a fabulous cabaret/folk/dance Christmas show, which isn't usually my sort of thing but really worked.
The day started with drama as A got rushed into A+E having badly burnt herself on the kettle. Having got her home safely, I then dashed down to the school to watch my drummers play at the Christmas concert. They were all so great today, even the ones who aren't usually, they just all upped their game when their parents were watching...
Taught my final private lesson of the year (it was fine), and then A and myself went to see a fabulous cabaret/folk/dance Christmas show, which isn't usually my sort of thing but really worked.
Tuesday, 17 December 2019
Tuesday 17th December 2019
Final day in the schools before Christmas! And everyone is very ready for a break...it was fine today, but nobody could focus. We just ran over some old stuff, it was fine.
Had time to kill so bought a hideous Christmas cardigan. A hates it.
Two private lessons (first one: awesome, and lovely present from them too, second one: weirdly tense, the student's mum just seems really blunt today) and then off to long WAS dress rehearsal. Having a world-famous percussionist staring at you didn't help, but this set is great and I'm having a lot of fun with it. Thursday will be awesome.
Sunday 16th December 2019
Now that the school concert is done, everyone at the 'new' school seems to have taken to me a bit, like they realise I'm actually doing a good job there. The lessons were great today.
Then over to the BBC where Greg and myself played a live session and chatted about Sunday's many charity gigs.
A simple four lessons followed (first one: fun, if not as productive as normal, second one: great, third one: drifted a bit but was fine, fourth one: awesome) and home by 9pm.
Haven't written for a while, I have more ideas than time. I'll do this over Christmas.
Then over to the BBC where Greg and myself played a live session and chatted about Sunday's many charity gigs.
A simple four lessons followed (first one: fun, if not as productive as normal, second one: great, third one: drifted a bit but was fine, fourth one: awesome) and home by 9pm.
Haven't written for a while, I have more ideas than time. I'll do this over Christmas.
Sunday 15th December 2019
Morning lesson cancelled due to student illness, which meant I could sleep in and then not teach till midday. Three private lessons today (ON A SUNDAY) (first one: awesome, second one: great kid, asks a lot of questions, third one: fantastic, a jazz lesson) before heading out to our charity night that I put together.
An unrehearsed choir, an unrehearsed house band who had never met before, a new band and some comedians trying new material. It was every bit as shambolic as it should have been, but with so much love and energy, everyone actually had a brilliant time. We raised a couple hundred quid for charity and everyone left with a smile on their faces. Could have been a better show, but I doubt we could have had a better audience. Lovely, really lovely, I enjoyed that.
An unrehearsed choir, an unrehearsed house band who had never met before, a new band and some comedians trying new material. It was every bit as shambolic as it should have been, but with so much love and energy, everyone actually had a brilliant time. We raised a couple hundred quid for charity and everyone left with a smile on their faces. Could have been a better show, but I doubt we could have had a better audience. Lovely, really lovely, I enjoyed that.
Saturday 14th December 2019
Up far too early for a Saturday, but as always this student is a joy and I had a fun time working on some Motown grooves with him. The next student was reluctant but his dad ended up taking a chunk of the lesson, as always, and everyone seems happy.
Home for a short while and then back out with FH for an early soundcheck in Milton Keynes. Lovely, if unconventional venue, but decent sound guy and good company. The gig was a sellout and was very rowdy, and very festive. Long story, but I ended up playing most of it in a Rudolph onesie and was a sweaty mess throughout.
Good times.
Home for a short while and then back out with FH for an early soundcheck in Milton Keynes. Lovely, if unconventional venue, but decent sound guy and good company. The gig was a sellout and was very rowdy, and very festive. Long story, but I ended up playing most of it in a Rudolph onesie and was a sweaty mess throughout.
Good times.
Friday 13th December 2019
Everyone is justifiably depressed about politics. We're all doomed.
Still, taught some lovely lessons at my favourite school, got confused by the new A14 AGAIN (just fucking leave it alone) and then another 6 lessons at the other school.
Two private lessons followed, the first one was as fine as it can be with a slightly disinterested teenager, and then the second one with a new student was brilliant - such an awesome family!
Throughout the day I could feel myself getting drowsier, and snottier, so reluctantly didn't go to a party I was invited to. A was out at her works do, so I stayed in with pizza and fell asleep on the couch.
Still, taught some lovely lessons at my favourite school, got confused by the new A14 AGAIN (just fucking leave it alone) and then another 6 lessons at the other school.
Two private lessons followed, the first one was as fine as it can be with a slightly disinterested teenager, and then the second one with a new student was brilliant - such an awesome family!
Throughout the day I could feel myself getting drowsier, and snottier, so reluctantly didn't go to a party I was invited to. A was out at her works do, so I stayed in with pizza and fell asleep on the couch.
Thursday 12th December 2019
My last day of the year at the school that I least enjoy and the kids were on proper form today - all of them, so angry, so rude, it was a tough three hours.
My next school was lovely, in a very quiet sort of way.
Three private lessons followed, the first two exceptional, and then third one was my final one with Z, who is moving to London in January. He's been an odd one; when we met last January, he was an intimidating figure, quite reserved. Here we are, nearly two years later, and we've become really good friends (he's in his mid-thirties, so similar stage of life) and he's also turned into the complete drummer. A top, top man, who I'll honestly miss and we both almost got emotional at the end of his final lesson. We'll catch up soon.
Then over to the studio to record three tracks (with videos) with FH. Went well, we're tight, we're polished.
And then something or another happened in politics.*
*I did vote, but the team I wanted to win didn't, so let's just leave it there.
My next school was lovely, in a very quiet sort of way.
Three private lessons followed, the first two exceptional, and then third one was my final one with Z, who is moving to London in January. He's been an odd one; when we met last January, he was an intimidating figure, quite reserved. Here we are, nearly two years later, and we've become really good friends (he's in his mid-thirties, so similar stage of life) and he's also turned into the complete drummer. A top, top man, who I'll honestly miss and we both almost got emotional at the end of his final lesson. We'll catch up soon.
Then over to the studio to record three tracks (with videos) with FH. Went well, we're tight, we're polished.
And then something or another happened in politics.*
*I did vote, but the team I wanted to win didn't, so let's just leave it there.
Wednesday 11th December 2019
One of those 'how DID I get away with everything' kind of days. My schedule is at breaking point, and it should have broken today.
I don't start till 11am on Wednesdays (as much as somebody is trying to book me in for 9am lessons that day...I have to say no, I must), but I had to drop a kit off first thing at the new school for later then head to the regular one, which was fine. Although I'm clearly tired and missed the turning on the new A14 and pretty much drove to Peterborough by accident.
Took Mum shopping, which overran, and then mad dash to Cambridge for my final private lesson and then drum club of the year. Fortunately, nobody came to drum club (which had been predicted by the head of music, last day of term and all that) which meant I was allowed to leave half an hour early (and still get paid!) and make it to the school concert for my new school. My students did amazingly well under such pressure and suddenly I feel liked there, and accepted.
Then dashed across town, typically getting angry at cyclists, making it for the WAS band session with brass. It went well but everyone, all of us, individually, is knackered.
I don't start till 11am on Wednesdays (as much as somebody is trying to book me in for 9am lessons that day...I have to say no, I must), but I had to drop a kit off first thing at the new school for later then head to the regular one, which was fine. Although I'm clearly tired and missed the turning on the new A14 and pretty much drove to Peterborough by accident.
Took Mum shopping, which overran, and then mad dash to Cambridge for my final private lesson and then drum club of the year. Fortunately, nobody came to drum club (which had been predicted by the head of music, last day of term and all that) which meant I was allowed to leave half an hour early (and still get paid!) and make it to the school concert for my new school. My students did amazingly well under such pressure and suddenly I feel liked there, and accepted.
Then dashed across town, typically getting angry at cyclists, making it for the WAS band session with brass. It went well but everyone, all of us, individually, is knackered.
Tuesday 10th December 2019
Long day at my favourite school, where all the kids are high on sugar and all the teachers are looking exhausted. We're nearly there, it's nearly Christmas, guys.
I did all Christmas songs with them today, and then pretty much repeated the same lesson three times in a row later privately.
Home by 7.30pm, actually got to see A tonight and have dinner with my beautiful future wife. And then wrote till 1.30am.
I did all Christmas songs with them today, and then pretty much repeated the same lesson three times in a row later privately.
Home by 7.30pm, actually got to see A tonight and have dinner with my beautiful future wife. And then wrote till 1.30am.
Monday 9th December 2019
Still can't work out if the new school like me or not. Or maybe I've just been lucky because a majority of my schools are wonderful and make me feel good about myself. Either way, having a gig to focus on (the gig is on Wednesday) really helps focus the students and they seemed both excited yet nervous today.
Then four private lessons (one was off sick) in a row (first one: very good new-ish student who is pushing me slightly in a good way, second one: awesome, third one: awesome, fourth one: kid clearly just not in the mood) and then off to our first rehearsal for Greg's new project - a folk cabaret evening, which was lovely. Great musicians, easy tunes, good laughs. It'll be fun next year.
Then four private lessons (one was off sick) in a row (first one: very good new-ish student who is pushing me slightly in a good way, second one: awesome, third one: awesome, fourth one: kid clearly just not in the mood) and then off to our first rehearsal for Greg's new project - a folk cabaret evening, which was lovely. Great musicians, easy tunes, good laughs. It'll be fun next year.
Sunday, 15 December 2019
Saturday 7th December 2019
Energy levels back up to probably about 80%.
Taught a 3-hour drums for beginners course at a college, for adults, which on paper looked stressful but, for a second time now, it really worked. This little course I've written seems to be a winner, structured well, everyone comes out smiling. Taught six drummers today, for 3 hours, with 1 drum kit and if anything, I could have done another hour with them.
The only problem with this, of course, is that three of them now want private lessons and I literally don't have any time free, at all, for anything and I'm slowly losing my mind.
Taught a private lesson and then dashed off to Oxford to play a lovely gig with FH, with terrible sound. We fought through it, in such good company (amazing audience). Prue is an absolute revelation, on and offstage, it's like she's been in the band for years.
Home by 2am.
Taught a 3-hour drums for beginners course at a college, for adults, which on paper looked stressful but, for a second time now, it really worked. This little course I've written seems to be a winner, structured well, everyone comes out smiling. Taught six drummers today, for 3 hours, with 1 drum kit and if anything, I could have done another hour with them.
The only problem with this, of course, is that three of them now want private lessons and I literally don't have any time free, at all, for anything and I'm slowly losing my mind.
Taught a private lesson and then dashed off to Oxford to play a lovely gig with FH, with terrible sound. We fought through it, in such good company (amazing audience). Prue is an absolute revelation, on and offstage, it's like she's been in the band for years.
Home by 2am.
Friday 6th December 2019
Just burning out a little. All of the kids I teach have heavy colds, the classrooms are full of snot, it's obvious why I keep feeling ill myself.
Got through everything today, both schools and three private lessons, but that's only because these are all students that I like teaching, which makes things very easy.
Was supposed to be going to a mates' party but instead had a long hot bath, which made me feel slightly better, and started planning for next year. I've changed.
Thursday 5th December 2019
Morning at the angry school, which just made me doubt my career choices, as it always does there.
Then over to the other school, which was lovely and reminded me why I do this. Same, every week.
Four private lessons followed (first one: amazing, from a student who is often not into it, second one: fantastic, third one: adult student who has become more of a pal then anything, fourth one: great fun) and two wonderful Christmas presents from two of my students who I won't be seeing until January.
Wrote till 1am. Not sure what will happen to this new material, but I'm enjoying writing it all the same.
Then over to the other school, which was lovely and reminded me why I do this. Same, every week.
Four private lessons followed (first one: amazing, from a student who is often not into it, second one: fantastic, third one: adult student who has become more of a pal then anything, fourth one: great fun) and two wonderful Christmas presents from two of my students who I won't be seeing until January.
Wrote till 1am. Not sure what will happen to this new material, but I'm enjoying writing it all the same.
Wednesday 4th December 2019
Wednesdays are my favourite day simply because I get to have a lie-in, not starting till 11am but as a result my lessons are often a little sleepy. It as fine, I've planned these well.
Not feeling Christmassy yet.
Really enjoying the stuff I'm writing at the moment, but aware that I need to focus more on pushing HG further next year...it's by far the best thing I've done and I can't keep writing new stuff, this one needs to be nurtured.
Took Mum for her big pre-Christmas shop, which she enjoyed. It took hours.
Private drum lesson with one of my regulars was good fun, such an enthusiastic kid who is really progressing to the tricky stuff. Evening rehearsal with the choir band was tired, but we're getting tighter.
Not feeling Christmassy yet.
Really enjoying the stuff I'm writing at the moment, but aware that I need to focus more on pushing HG further next year...it's by far the best thing I've done and I can't keep writing new stuff, this one needs to be nurtured.
Took Mum for her big pre-Christmas shop, which she enjoyed. It took hours.
Private drum lesson with one of my regulars was good fun, such an enthusiastic kid who is really progressing to the tricky stuff. Evening rehearsal with the choir band was tired, but we're getting tighter.
Tuesday, 10 December 2019
Tuesday 3rd December 2019
Should my 'new' car have this rattling sound? Like, not just a little rattle, but a full-on, somebody has dropped a box of spanners sort of rattle? I've googled it and it turns out it's common for this model, 12 years old, to sound a bit like a tractor. It's only when I'm stationery, but it's SO loud, people are asking if my car's okay. I've only just bought it. We'll see.
My favourite school remains my favourite school, including giving the receptionist a cracking drum lesson today, she gets it.
Just the two private lessons today, due to a scheduling cock-up (my scheduling cock-up), both fine, both structured well.
Home, wrote till very late.
My favourite school remains my favourite school, including giving the receptionist a cracking drum lesson today, she gets it.
Just the two private lessons today, due to a scheduling cock-up (my scheduling cock-up), both fine, both structured well.
Home, wrote till very late.
Monday 2nd December 2019
I'm in that awkward place of 'look, it's December, let's get mega festive' but also 'it's only early December, stop trying to force it' and also 'you've been secretly listening to Christmas songs since mid-November, it's wearing thin already'.
Not sure why I overthink this stuff so much.
The 'new' school this morning was fine, the kids aren't always into it but everyone is friendly enough, it just needs an extra spark. Hopefully their debut gig in 2 weeks will do that. Playing live is just the best thing.
Four private lessons followed, was supposed to be five but had one off sick. All of them fine, the danger is that I really, really planned these lessons and as a result they flew by without any sense of danger. I get this is how other teachers must do it all of the time, but I'm getting slightly bored of myself.
Not sure why I overthink this stuff so much.
The 'new' school this morning was fine, the kids aren't always into it but everyone is friendly enough, it just needs an extra spark. Hopefully their debut gig in 2 weeks will do that. Playing live is just the best thing.
Four private lessons followed, was supposed to be five but had one off sick. All of them fine, the danger is that I really, really planned these lessons and as a result they flew by without any sense of danger. I get this is how other teachers must do it all of the time, but I'm getting slightly bored of myself.
Sunday, 1 December 2019
Sunday 1st December 2019
A really fun day, I've had a lovely time. Up early for a morning WAS band rehearsal, which was full of Christmas cheer and relief that our next gig isn't as tricky at the recent London show.
Then over to a rehearsal space in Cambridge that I used to go to regularly many, many years ago. It's just reponed with the same owner, who knows me, and in return for setting up the drum kit for him, he let me have the studio for free today - it was a very fair deal.
The lesson itself was a 2-hour session; somebody had 'bought' me as a gift, for their daughter's boyfriend, who has played a bit of drums was but was losing interest. We had an amazing time, such a polite lad who could play a bit but was open-minded to new styles, so we worked on Motown, Reggae, Jazz... he excelled in all of it and apparently spent the whole journey home telling his lift how much he learnt and how he wanted to do it all again. This is why I do this.
Evening lesson cancelled as student was ill, which meant I could have a long bath. I lay there, aware that my young lady was downstairs, thinking "it's all worked out rather well, really."
Spent the rest of the evening getting myself organised for a very busy 2020, and trying to fix my 5 double-bookings for next week.
Then over to a rehearsal space in Cambridge that I used to go to regularly many, many years ago. It's just reponed with the same owner, who knows me, and in return for setting up the drum kit for him, he let me have the studio for free today - it was a very fair deal.
The lesson itself was a 2-hour session; somebody had 'bought' me as a gift, for their daughter's boyfriend, who has played a bit of drums was but was losing interest. We had an amazing time, such a polite lad who could play a bit but was open-minded to new styles, so we worked on Motown, Reggae, Jazz... he excelled in all of it and apparently spent the whole journey home telling his lift how much he learnt and how he wanted to do it all again. This is why I do this.
Evening lesson cancelled as student was ill, which meant I could have a long bath. I lay there, aware that my young lady was downstairs, thinking "it's all worked out rather well, really."
Spent the rest of the evening getting myself organised for a very busy 2020, and trying to fix my 5 double-bookings for next week.
Saturday 30th November 2019
I always begrudge having to get up early on a Saturday to teach, but this student, who is just 7, is wonderful and I always leave the lesson feeling in a good place. Got him playing songs in a 3/4 timing today and he nailed it.
The next lesson felt stressed as they were having technical issues in the house, but we're all good.
A and myself then went shopping, to buy me a new winter coat and shoes, but couldn't find anything I liked. Bit frustrating.
Home for a bit, and then off to teach one very fun lesson.
I had tonight off! We went to watch Last Christmas in the cinema, which wasn't as bad as the reviewers have been saying.
The next lesson felt stressed as they were having technical issues in the house, but we're all good.
A and myself then went shopping, to buy me a new winter coat and shoes, but couldn't find anything I liked. Bit frustrating.
Home for a bit, and then off to teach one very fun lesson.
I had tonight off! We went to watch Last Christmas in the cinema, which wasn't as bad as the reviewers have been saying.
Friday 29th November 2019
Back at the lovely school and it was lovely.
Popped into town to pay in last night's show money (wasn't expecting to be paid, but they were very generous) and then my regular school which was fun.
Popped in to see Mum, and then taught a fun private lesson before off to Cambridge to play a sold-out show with the band. We were really good tonight, the best we've been in a long time. Prue is a revelation, on stage and as a friend, she's totally one of us.
Popped into town to pay in last night's show money (wasn't expecting to be paid, but they were very generous) and then my regular school which was fun.
Popped in to see Mum, and then taught a fun private lesson before off to Cambridge to play a sold-out show with the band. We were really good tonight, the best we've been in a long time. Prue is a revelation, on stage and as a friend, she's totally one of us.
Thursday 28th November 2019
My 'difficult' school was difficult again today, it was just chaos. Why do I put myself through this every week?
Over to my other Thursday school, which is usually fine but today three of my five there were away on a school trip so it felt pointless me being in. Still, it meant I could pop home for a bit and chill out (catch up on emails) before popping out for one very relaxed lesson.
In the evening I performed Harvey G for the first time in a while, this time at the house of a multi award-winning songwriter (who has written one of the biggest pop songs of all time) so a bit of pressure, and there was also somebody from the BBC there. I was really happy with the performance, as were 7 of the 8 people who attended.
It was an intense performance, really intense, because I felt like I was really on it, but one woman ran out crying before the end. I found out later that he son had recently committed suicide, and this show was "too close to the bone" for her. I feel sorry for her, she must be going through unimaginable pain, but also...why was she invited in the first place?
The BBC person loved it, and told me so for the next half an hour, describing it as "remarkable" and gave me a cracking quote for my future flyers. A BBC quote can go a long way so I'm very grateful.
Excessive night.
Over to my other Thursday school, which is usually fine but today three of my five there were away on a school trip so it felt pointless me being in. Still, it meant I could pop home for a bit and chill out (catch up on emails) before popping out for one very relaxed lesson.
In the evening I performed Harvey G for the first time in a while, this time at the house of a multi award-winning songwriter (who has written one of the biggest pop songs of all time) so a bit of pressure, and there was also somebody from the BBC there. I was really happy with the performance, as were 7 of the 8 people who attended.
It was an intense performance, really intense, because I felt like I was really on it, but one woman ran out crying before the end. I found out later that he son had recently committed suicide, and this show was "too close to the bone" for her. I feel sorry for her, she must be going through unimaginable pain, but also...why was she invited in the first place?
The BBC person loved it, and told me so for the next half an hour, describing it as "remarkable" and gave me a cracking quote for my future flyers. A BBC quote can go a long way so I'm very grateful.
Excessive night.
Wednesday, 27 November 2019
Wednesday 27th November 2019
Last night felt like a huge achievement, even if it went on for ages - 28 songs in just over 2 hours. Woke up to so many nice messages from parents. I'm doing the right thing here.
Leisurely drive over to my regular school, which was fine, and then took Mum shopping.
No college today as there's exams on, and I'd given both of my Wednesday students the week off having played the gig last night. Instead I caught up on admin (currently at 0 emails in both of my accounts), wrote for a bit and then rehearsed Harvey G, as I'm performing it tomorrow night. Before more writing, so many ideas!
Leisurely drive over to my regular school, which was fine, and then took Mum shopping.
No college today as there's exams on, and I'd given both of my Wednesday students the week off having played the gig last night. Instead I caught up on admin (currently at 0 emails in both of my accounts), wrote for a bit and then rehearsed Harvey G, as I'm performing it tomorrow night. Before more writing, so many ideas!
Tuesday 26th November 2019
5 hours at my favourite school, 13 students but it flew by. So many good vibes from the other teachers there, let's keep building this one.
Home for a bit to pace around, and then off to set up the kit for tonight's show. The student gig for 17 of my private students, for many of them a first gig, for a few of them their second. FH backed them brilliantly, dealing with all manner of tempo changes and nervy moments, there was a real range tonight but they all DID IT, and that's the most important thing. It was stressful, for me - I felt like a football manager who didn't have control over his team, but was still trying to will them on from the touchline (my seat in the front). They all mean a lot to me and, with bright lights, playing with a band for the first time and a really, really packed audience, it must have been scary. But my students are great, really great.
We raised £220 for charity tonight, as well. I have big ideas about our next student concert...
Home for a bit to pace around, and then off to set up the kit for tonight's show. The student gig for 17 of my private students, for many of them a first gig, for a few of them their second. FH backed them brilliantly, dealing with all manner of tempo changes and nervy moments, there was a real range tonight but they all DID IT, and that's the most important thing. It was stressful, for me - I felt like a football manager who didn't have control over his team, but was still trying to will them on from the touchline (my seat in the front). They all mean a lot to me and, with bright lights, playing with a band for the first time and a really, really packed audience, it must have been scary. But my students are great, really great.
We raised £220 for charity tonight, as well. I have big ideas about our next student concert...
Monday 25th November 2019
Morning at my new school, where I still don't feel entirely welcome. Or maybe it's just because my other schools make me feel so welcome and my ego has got bigger? Either way, I have to carry my drums really quite far and they make me teach in the boiler room, which is fucking hot. The kids just aren't as into it as they should be, in my opinion, but we'll get there.
From that to a private lesson (awesome), home for 2 hours to write, and then four more private lessons (first one: kid so nervous about tomorrow's gig, second one: kid not as nervous as he should be about tomorrow's gig, third one: awesome, fourth one: so much banter with the kid's parents (who have become good friends) I barely had a chance to teach).
Home by 9.30pm, tried to write, brain too tired.
From that to a private lesson (awesome), home for 2 hours to write, and then four more private lessons (first one: kid so nervous about tomorrow's gig, second one: kid not as nervous as he should be about tomorrow's gig, third one: awesome, fourth one: so much banter with the kid's parents (who have become good friends) I barely had a chance to teach).
Home by 9.30pm, tried to write, brain too tired.
Sunday 24th November 2019
An actual lie-in! Was very nice, before teaching at midday. FH recording session cancelled due to Prue's illness, so had a few hours at home to work on my new book and jot down about a million ideas for other things.
Two private lessons followed (first with one of my newer students, he knows so much already but I'm really challenging him, the second one was just lovely) and home for dinner with A.
And then back to writing...2019 has been good to me but 2020 will be creatively amazing.
Two private lessons followed (first with one of my newer students, he knows so much already but I'm really challenging him, the second one was just lovely) and home for dinner with A.
And then back to writing...2019 has been good to me but 2020 will be creatively amazing.
Saturday 23rd November 2019
Up early with SUCH A HANGOVER but my morning student is awesome, so alive, it's hard for it not to be infectious. He did so well today, as did the second private student after (and also his dad, who does the last ten minutes but clearly wants a full hour of drumming himself). Started working on reggae today, it was lovely.
Then the first of two festive gigs, the first in Cambridge (inside a shopping centre, never ideal but was more than fine) and then the second outside a few villages away. Lots of confusion over our timeslot and we ended up still being in the pub when we were supposed to be onstage, having sound checked two hours earlier, but it was all fine in the end. I love my new bass pedal, which is identical to my previous one (but it lasted 9 years, which is pretty cool).
Home by 9pm, wrote till very late...
Then the first of two festive gigs, the first in Cambridge (inside a shopping centre, never ideal but was more than fine) and then the second outside a few villages away. Lots of confusion over our timeslot and we ended up still being in the pub when we were supposed to be onstage, having sound checked two hours earlier, but it was all fine in the end. I love my new bass pedal, which is identical to my previous one (but it lasted 9 years, which is pretty cool).
Home by 9pm, wrote till very late...
Friday 22nd November 2019
Where is this year going? Cliched, I know, but slow down, please.
Friday morning at my favourite school was lovely, and lively, everyone's just very excited but it's such a nice environment to teach in. Dropped off some wages in town and then off to my other favourite school to teach two hours of Christmas songs.
Saw mum for half an hour, and then two private lessons (first one: excellent, second one: kid too chatty but he'll be fine for the gig). And then a third one, but the student forgot it was happening, so we just did half an hour of running over the gig stuff.
Over to Pascale's for her birthday, where we all got drunk in a very messy sort of way. Got chatting to some comedians, which was weird as it wasn't that sort of party - it was full of scientists, but we had long, deep, interesting conversations that I enjoyed very much. No way I'm going back to stand-up, though.
Friday morning at my favourite school was lovely, and lively, everyone's just very excited but it's such a nice environment to teach in. Dropped off some wages in town and then off to my other favourite school to teach two hours of Christmas songs.
Saw mum for half an hour, and then two private lessons (first one: excellent, second one: kid too chatty but he'll be fine for the gig). And then a third one, but the student forgot it was happening, so we just did half an hour of running over the gig stuff.
Over to Pascale's for her birthday, where we all got drunk in a very messy sort of way. Got chatting to some comedians, which was weird as it wasn't that sort of party - it was full of scientists, but we had long, deep, interesting conversations that I enjoyed very much. No way I'm going back to stand-up, though.
Thursday, 21 November 2019
Thursday 21st November 2019
I've got so many ideas at the moment, for new plays, for sitcoms, and it feels like, on the back on of a very successful Edinburgh, I can do this. But I can't because I'm working so hard as a teacher.
4 hours at my least favourite school, which was better than normal today, 2 hours at the other school which was fine, then drove to Bourn for a private lesson, then Bottisham, then Girton, then Cambridge. Left the house at 7.55am, home by 9pm.
But in the final lesson, as the kid prepares for our showcase gig next week, the Dad watched and cried because his son is drumming SO AMAZINGLY. I get quite a few parents crying. His Mum said to me, in slightly broken English, "I know you work hard, but you're so into this, aren't you? Even now, so enthusiastic."
She's probably right, this is probably my calling in life, I probably do enjoy it. I just want to do the other stuff, as well, but...time.
4 hours at my least favourite school, which was better than normal today, 2 hours at the other school which was fine, then drove to Bourn for a private lesson, then Bottisham, then Girton, then Cambridge. Left the house at 7.55am, home by 9pm.
But in the final lesson, as the kid prepares for our showcase gig next week, the Dad watched and cried because his son is drumming SO AMAZINGLY. I get quite a few parents crying. His Mum said to me, in slightly broken English, "I know you work hard, but you're so into this, aren't you? Even now, so enthusiastic."
She's probably right, this is probably my calling in life, I probably do enjoy it. I just want to do the other stuff, as well, but...time.
Wednesday, 20 November 2019
Wednesday 20th November 2019
I'm getting a LOT of praise for my performance on Saturday. Lots of "no other drummer could have coped with that" and "without you we would have fallen apart, such a tough gig" and even one "you are a god to us" which is perhaps going a bit far. My ego, though...
I guess, in retrospect, it was a real achievement. We just shouldn't have been in that position in the first place.
My only lie-in of the week and it was brilliant.
Good morning at my regular school, as much as I have a student who farts constantly and I'm starting to think that the head of music, who is in after me, thinks it's me making that smell. It's just a really tricky subject to bring up.
Took Mum shopping and caught up on emails, and then off to the college for a private lesson (amazing) and then drum club (sloppy, but we loosely played some Christmas songs).
Two private lessons to end the day (first one - brilliant, second one - too chatty and didn't achieve as much) and home for dinner with A, which was lovely.
Tuesday 19th November 2019
My Thursday school, where I get niggled sometimes, have offered me really good money to stay. I've accepted because, well, I'm terrible at turning down money and because they've really boosted my ego. I'm clearly doing a good job there, it just doesn't always feel like it.
Long day at my favourite school, it was great fun as ever. I've started having a race to the music room with each student, all of this running will do me good but I taught 13 of them today, it was exhausting (for the record, 8 of them won). Great school, even more students on the way.
Then got caught up in traffic and it took me an hour to get to a student's house, only to find out they were out and had forgotten the lesson (which they had re-arranged in the first place). I've dropped them now, too busy for this bullshit and I need to drop a couple - it just helped me make my decision. My other private lesson of the day was really brilliant, which helped.
FH rehearsal was fine, most of it spent arguing over which Christmas songs to cover and probably not enough time actually playing them. Two festive gigs this weekend.
Long day at my favourite school, it was great fun as ever. I've started having a race to the music room with each student, all of this running will do me good but I taught 13 of them today, it was exhausting (for the record, 8 of them won). Great school, even more students on the way.
Then got caught up in traffic and it took me an hour to get to a student's house, only to find out they were out and had forgotten the lesson (which they had re-arranged in the first place). I've dropped them now, too busy for this bullshit and I need to drop a couple - it just helped me make my decision. My other private lesson of the day was really brilliant, which helped.
FH rehearsal was fine, most of it spent arguing over which Christmas songs to cover and probably not enough time actually playing them. Two festive gigs this weekend.
Monday 18th November 2019
Been reading a book about hospital staff having to work over Christmas and it got to me a little. Here we are, stressing about where we spend Christmas Eve (her parents' place) or Christmas Day (my mums) when these poor guys have to work, all of it. Have decided to put on a show to raise money for the staff at A+E at the local hospital. Confirmed a venue easily enough...
A couple hours at the new school where it just feels...I don't know, nobody is excited about drum lessons. They should be. The staff are friendly but communication is non-existent and it's all a little flat. We'll see.
5 private lessons (first one - awesome, second one - distracted and messy, third one - fine, fourth one - awesome, fifth one - flew by) and then home by 9pm to carry on plotting this gig...
A couple hours at the new school where it just feels...I don't know, nobody is excited about drum lessons. They should be. The staff are friendly but communication is non-existent and it's all a little flat. We'll see.
5 private lessons (first one - awesome, second one - distracted and messy, third one - fine, fourth one - awesome, fifth one - flew by) and then home by 9pm to carry on plotting this gig...
Sunday, 17 November 2019
Sunday 17th November 2019
I worked so, so hard last night. Got back, got a late-night pizza and just lay on the sofa watching repeats of Not Going Out till 3am. It took it out of me. Such a stressful gig. I love this project, but it wasn't great last night.
Slept in till 12, then taught three private lessons (first one: tired student but good fun, second one: excellent, third one: really excellent).
Sitcom recording cancelled in the evening because one of the actors was ill, so a lovely evening with A and two hours of solid writing. Glorious.
Slept in till 12, then taught three private lessons (first one: tired student but good fun, second one: excellent, third one: really excellent).
Sitcom recording cancelled in the evening because one of the actors was ill, so a lovely evening with A and two hours of solid writing. Glorious.
Saturday 16th November 2019
That was a long day. Up early to teach an early morning lesson with one of my regulars (who was equally as reluctant as me to start at such a painfully cold hour...9.30am, is too early for drums) but we soon got into the swing of things.
Home, quick shower and then a cab to the station. Met up with Will our new guitarist and a bunch of the ladies from the choir, and then on the train where they made me drink gin and we had a very merry time.
Into London, half an hour to kill so had a coffee with Lucy, and then over to the venue itself. A huge space, an epic tent. The sound guy was struggling, anyone would, but he seemed to struggle more than most. I mean, not being harsh, but we had 4 hours before the audience were allowed in but we didn't get a soundcheck. Didn't get a chance to run over the two songs that had been causing us a few problems in the dress rehearsal, instead it was dinner time and then the huge audience piled in.
The electric kit I had to play was terrible and it was causing a lot of issues with both the sound, and also it's stability was a great concern. Found out later after the gig that it was a cheap kids' kit, not the 'top level professional set' I was assured it would be, in my reluctance to go electric due to the local council's sound restrictions.
The gig itself was by far the most stressful I've ever played; the kit fell apart, constantly, the sound was terrible, the songs we didn't know...we still didn't know. We got through it. All two hours of it. Nobody could hear each other onstage, timings were all over the place, we snapped at each other, we had a horrible time.
The audience loved it, they had no idea what we had just been through.
In some ways it was a huge achievement; to pull off a show to nearly a thousand people when we've never been so unprepared. But I didn't have a great time tonight.
Got drunk at the aftershow party and made the last train home.
Home, quick shower and then a cab to the station. Met up with Will our new guitarist and a bunch of the ladies from the choir, and then on the train where they made me drink gin and we had a very merry time.
Into London, half an hour to kill so had a coffee with Lucy, and then over to the venue itself. A huge space, an epic tent. The sound guy was struggling, anyone would, but he seemed to struggle more than most. I mean, not being harsh, but we had 4 hours before the audience were allowed in but we didn't get a soundcheck. Didn't get a chance to run over the two songs that had been causing us a few problems in the dress rehearsal, instead it was dinner time and then the huge audience piled in.
The electric kit I had to play was terrible and it was causing a lot of issues with both the sound, and also it's stability was a great concern. Found out later after the gig that it was a cheap kids' kit, not the 'top level professional set' I was assured it would be, in my reluctance to go electric due to the local council's sound restrictions.
The gig itself was by far the most stressful I've ever played; the kit fell apart, constantly, the sound was terrible, the songs we didn't know...we still didn't know. We got through it. All two hours of it. Nobody could hear each other onstage, timings were all over the place, we snapped at each other, we had a horrible time.
The audience loved it, they had no idea what we had just been through.
In some ways it was a huge achievement; to pull off a show to nearly a thousand people when we've never been so unprepared. But I didn't have a great time tonight.
Got drunk at the aftershow party and made the last train home.
Friday, 15 November 2019
Friday 15th November 2019
Back at my Tuesday school, which is now also my Friday school, due to the demand, and the teachers are so happy for me that it's working out there. 5 new students, the first one was honestly mind-blowingly good. He's 6-years-old, 20 minutes in and I'm already thinking we have a child prodigy on our hands. I emailed his mum to explain and she said that "he's one of those kids that's good at everything." Git.
Still, a warm, lovely, 2 hours, followed by another 2 hours at my regular school which more than fine.
After that, my regular private lesson was cancelled as the kid was ill, so I moved the second one to Sunday and gave myself the rest of the day off! Bought myself a case of beer on the way home, ordered in A and myself a takeaway, she then went to bed early because she's now a snotty mess having caught it from me, and I spent the rest of the evening rewriting scripts ahead of Sunday's sitcom recording.
Still, a warm, lovely, 2 hours, followed by another 2 hours at my regular school which more than fine.
After that, my regular private lesson was cancelled as the kid was ill, so I moved the second one to Sunday and gave myself the rest of the day off! Bought myself a case of beer on the way home, ordered in A and myself a takeaway, she then went to bed early because she's now a snotty mess having caught it from me, and I spent the rest of the evening rewriting scripts ahead of Sunday's sitcom recording.
Thursday 14th November 2019
Such a long day. Stressful three hours at the stressful school, which can't continue, as much as the lady in charge seems to be really keen on what I do. The kids are so fucking rude; this isn't learning, this is crowd control...I shouted "look at yourself, you're better than this" at a 7-year-old today, which is usually a sign that it's time to move on.
Then off to my regular Thursday afternoon school, which is so twee and gentle and calming and I needed that. Thursdays is very much a day of extremes.
Quick private lesson (was fine - the kid is so enthusiastic yet I feel so snotty and ill, but we got through it) and then college concert where I played drums for the rapping cleaner in front of 200 kids. But it wasn't cringy at all, if anything it was uplifting, because it's an amazing college, celebrating their 25th anniversary, and I feel like I'm part of it. More hours there, please.
Then dashed over to the choir rehearsal, and my first go on the electric kit which I have to use for Saturday's gig and it felt like a toy and not a drum kit and I spent the whole dress rehearsal being angry. The songs are fine, but it's a massive compromise having to drum on 'that' due to the venue's sound restrictions.
Then off to my regular Thursday afternoon school, which is so twee and gentle and calming and I needed that. Thursdays is very much a day of extremes.
Quick private lesson (was fine - the kid is so enthusiastic yet I feel so snotty and ill, but we got through it) and then college concert where I played drums for the rapping cleaner in front of 200 kids. But it wasn't cringy at all, if anything it was uplifting, because it's an amazing college, celebrating their 25th anniversary, and I feel like I'm part of it. More hours there, please.
Then dashed over to the choir rehearsal, and my first go on the electric kit which I have to use for Saturday's gig and it felt like a toy and not a drum kit and I spent the whole dress rehearsal being angry. The songs are fine, but it's a massive compromise having to drum on 'that' due to the venue's sound restrictions.
Wednesday 13th November 2019
My only lie-in of the week and I needed it. It was a total joy, loved it.
As a result, my 3 lessons at my regular school were calm, measured, very festive.
Took Mum shopping, whilst replying to various emails and continued talks with an agent, who is keen on what I'm doing post-fringe. That side of my career needs to go up a gear, again.
2 hours at the college, firstly for a private lesson (amazing) and then drum club (flat), before two more private lessons (both fine) and then home to crash out early, my head tired and full of snot.
As a result, my 3 lessons at my regular school were calm, measured, very festive.
Took Mum shopping, whilst replying to various emails and continued talks with an agent, who is keen on what I'm doing post-fringe. That side of my career needs to go up a gear, again.
2 hours at the college, firstly for a private lesson (amazing) and then drum club (flat), before two more private lessons (both fine) and then home to crash out early, my head tired and full of snot.
Tuesday 12th November 2019
Full of cold, literally a walking snot fest. 12 private lessons at my 'favourite' school, if I'm allowed favourites. All of it a joy, such a healthy environment to teach in.
Home for a quick nap, and then back out to teach three private lessons (first one - kid always reluctant but the mum is awesome, second one - fantastic, challenging, bright kid, third one - running over old stuff - his choice to 'have an easier one' today, it was fine) and then long FH rehearsal where we're all tight and fine with the progress we're making, but knackered from 'normal' life stuff.
Emailed all 12 venues their slots for our Christmas run of gigs and one of them now can't make it. Sigh.
Home for a quick nap, and then back out to teach three private lessons (first one - kid always reluctant but the mum is awesome, second one - fantastic, challenging, bright kid, third one - running over old stuff - his choice to 'have an easier one' today, it was fine) and then long FH rehearsal where we're all tight and fine with the progress we're making, but knackered from 'normal' life stuff.
Emailed all 12 venues their slots for our Christmas run of gigs and one of them now can't make it. Sigh.
Monday 11th November 2019
Feel more accepted now by my 'new' school, now that my name is actually in the 'signing in' list, printed and everything (not written in pen at the bottom like last week). The lessons were fine, it's early days there and there won't be a buzz until the Christmas concert next month, where I'll actually meet the parents and they can see where their money is going.
Six private lessons followed, which will be my routine now for Mondays (or five, in the alternate weeks), I need to turn down a few at some point but it's all good for the wedding pot. First one - new-is student but she's great and quirky and learning quickly, second one - great kid, fine lesson, third one - always my favourite, always joy, fourth one - always distracted but his family are great, fifth one - always more intense because he's a grown-up with advanced skills but we're forever improving him, sixth one - kid getting very nervous about the gig, but we're getting there.
Home, wrote till late, I don't care if I look exhausted, I'm still writing plays because that's what I do, yeah?
Six private lessons followed, which will be my routine now for Mondays (or five, in the alternate weeks), I need to turn down a few at some point but it's all good for the wedding pot. First one - new-is student but she's great and quirky and learning quickly, second one - great kid, fine lesson, third one - always my favourite, always joy, fourth one - always distracted but his family are great, fifth one - always more intense because he's a grown-up with advanced skills but we're forever improving him, sixth one - kid getting very nervous about the gig, but we're getting there.
Home, wrote till late, I don't care if I look exhausted, I'm still writing plays because that's what I do, yeah?
Sunday, 10 November 2019
Sunday 10th November 2019
Christmas tunes are brilliant and keep me going, even when I'm bordering on exhaustion.
Slept in (looking at my schedule, I get to sleep in 2 Sundays a month), then taught a midday session which was 'fine'. Good student, almost too good, we just went through a bunch of songs and got her gig-ready.
4 hour rehearsal with Greg and band ahead of our festive shows. Lots of chords/harmonies/stuff that drummers don't need to care about, but the guys are all very lovely and I enjoy their company a lot.
After that, A and myself went to our final wedding prep course, the fourth one, which taught us lots of 'lessons', such as don't cheat, don't be a prick, etc. All common sense, yes?
Did a spot of writing, replied to a bunch of teaching emails (lots of the parents of my students are buying their kids drum kits for Christmas...) and, if I finish this blog in time, asleep by midnight...
Slept in (looking at my schedule, I get to sleep in 2 Sundays a month), then taught a midday session which was 'fine'. Good student, almost too good, we just went through a bunch of songs and got her gig-ready.
4 hour rehearsal with Greg and band ahead of our festive shows. Lots of chords/harmonies/stuff that drummers don't need to care about, but the guys are all very lovely and I enjoy their company a lot.
After that, A and myself went to our final wedding prep course, the fourth one, which taught us lots of 'lessons', such as don't cheat, don't be a prick, etc. All common sense, yes?
Did a spot of writing, replied to a bunch of teaching emails (lots of the parents of my students are buying their kids drum kits for Christmas...) and, if I finish this blog in time, asleep by midnight...
Saturday 9th November 2019
Up early, first lesson of the day was 9.30am, would moan but little Seb is outstanding and his family are very sweet, he's making great progress and it's just a happy place to be.
Second lesson was very different. For a while I've felt that V has been drifting, but now she has what can only be described as an injury to her leg (although it seems to be a health problem, rather than just a strain) suddenly her bass drum technique is struggling. So, today I taught her some jazz grooves instead (which involves very little bass, if you choose to do it this way) and it was a cracking lesson, best we've had in a while. I may just rebrand as a jazz drum teacher, I loved that. I learnt a lot about myself in that lesson.
Bizarre, unexpected phone chat with an agent, based in Oxford, who saw Harvey G at he fringe. Life does have its unexpected nuggets, doesn't it? I'll know more soon, but both parties certainly seem keen. Looks like there will some sort of 'show followed by workshop' type deal going on. I'm just a fucking teacher, aren't I? Even when I'm being an 'artist'...but quietly grateful.
Long rehearsal with WAS, ahead of next week's epic gig. It's going to be huge, the venue is bordering on ridiculous, the biggest thing we've done. The set is confusing and the arrangements are uncertain, further complicated by bringing in over a hundred singers. I'd really, really done my homework this week and I really did well today yet the vibe in the air was that, as a show, on the whole, it was still utterly miles away from being ready. And is it it bad that I just felt like I deserved a bit of credit for at least getting my bit right, or is my ego too big? I know I was a bit off the pace a few weeks ago, but I've worked really hard to make sure I'm on it for this gig, beat for beat. I just remember leaving the rehearsal stinking of sweat, having played my arse off, but still feeling like things weren't good enough. This project is huge, such a complicated beast.
Went straight from that, probably not in the best frame of mind, to teach a new student. A has got annoyed with me for taking on a new 6.30pm, Saturday student, but such is the demand - my reputation is really decent and I need to keep that going. The student was amazing, first lesson, it just cheered me up - young lad, wonderful parents (you can just spot it), bright kid, so easy to teach him. He's worth the stress to my schedule.
And then finally home, A cooked us a lovely dinner and we drank far too much wine, watching The Commitments on DVD. Perfection. I'm marrying the right one.
Second lesson was very different. For a while I've felt that V has been drifting, but now she has what can only be described as an injury to her leg (although it seems to be a health problem, rather than just a strain) suddenly her bass drum technique is struggling. So, today I taught her some jazz grooves instead (which involves very little bass, if you choose to do it this way) and it was a cracking lesson, best we've had in a while. I may just rebrand as a jazz drum teacher, I loved that. I learnt a lot about myself in that lesson.
Bizarre, unexpected phone chat with an agent, based in Oxford, who saw Harvey G at he fringe. Life does have its unexpected nuggets, doesn't it? I'll know more soon, but both parties certainly seem keen. Looks like there will some sort of 'show followed by workshop' type deal going on. I'm just a fucking teacher, aren't I? Even when I'm being an 'artist'...but quietly grateful.
Long rehearsal with WAS, ahead of next week's epic gig. It's going to be huge, the venue is bordering on ridiculous, the biggest thing we've done. The set is confusing and the arrangements are uncertain, further complicated by bringing in over a hundred singers. I'd really, really done my homework this week and I really did well today yet the vibe in the air was that, as a show, on the whole, it was still utterly miles away from being ready. And is it it bad that I just felt like I deserved a bit of credit for at least getting my bit right, or is my ego too big? I know I was a bit off the pace a few weeks ago, but I've worked really hard to make sure I'm on it for this gig, beat for beat. I just remember leaving the rehearsal stinking of sweat, having played my arse off, but still feeling like things weren't good enough. This project is huge, such a complicated beast.
Went straight from that, probably not in the best frame of mind, to teach a new student. A has got annoyed with me for taking on a new 6.30pm, Saturday student, but such is the demand - my reputation is really decent and I need to keep that going. The student was amazing, first lesson, it just cheered me up - young lad, wonderful parents (you can just spot it), bright kid, so easy to teach him. He's worth the stress to my schedule.
And then finally home, A cooked us a lovely dinner and we drank far too much wine, watching The Commitments on DVD. Perfection. I'm marrying the right one.
Friday 8th November 2019
I used to like Fridays because it's my only lie-in of the week, but this will be the last one for a while as, after the success of the concert on Tuesday, my Tuesday school have now got me six extra students so I'm now doing Friday mornings there. This officially means I have no time free, at all, not a single hour anywhere at all. Madness.
Anyway, for this Friday I enjoyed a long lie-in, then I casually went into town, bought a shirt, paid in some cash, got a haircut and got a fry-up. It was literally all joy.
The school after was great, too, my regular place, the kids are on it and they love the fact that I'm getting all festive, which feels naughty as it's early November.
Two private lessons followed (both fine, both had chatty students so not as productive as I would have liked but the time flew by) and then amazing dinner with A in a new restaurant we've found. Ate so, so much, and crashed out by 10pm. Am I getting old?
Anyway, for this Friday I enjoyed a long lie-in, then I casually went into town, bought a shirt, paid in some cash, got a haircut and got a fry-up. It was literally all joy.
The school after was great, too, my regular place, the kids are on it and they love the fact that I'm getting all festive, which feels naughty as it's early November.
Two private lessons followed (both fine, both had chatty students so not as productive as I would have liked but the time flew by) and then amazing dinner with A in a new restaurant we've found. Ate so, so much, and crashed out by 10pm. Am I getting old?
Thursday, 7 November 2019
Thursday 7th November 2019
Long morning at my Thursday school, and the only one I really struggle with, in all honesty. The kids are just a bit rude, they just don't do what they're told, it's just a bit tough sometimes. The staff there are nice, but it's 12 kids in a row, it's a bit draining.
Dashed to my other Thursday school which was totally lovely.
Four private lessons followed (first one: fine for about 20 minutes and the kid drifted, second one: surprisingly amazing - this is a student who had appeared to have lost interest but was really on it today, this one: fantastic, fourth one: fantastic)
Left the house at 8am, home by 9pm. This teaching thing has gone too far.
Dashed to my other Thursday school which was totally lovely.
Four private lessons followed (first one: fine for about 20 minutes and the kid drifted, second one: surprisingly amazing - this is a student who had appeared to have lost interest but was really on it today, this one: fantastic, fourth one: fantastic)
Left the house at 8am, home by 9pm. This teaching thing has gone too far.
Wednesday 6th November 2019
Early start at my regular school, to make up for the time I missed when I left early for Dom's gig last week. Despite the whole morning feel of it, it was fine. Organised a Christmas concert with the head teacher, because that's the sort of guy I've become.
Took Mum shopping and it was stressful.
Afternoon at the college, firstly a fun private lesson there and then drum club, where we rehearsed the college rap with the cleaner. A bit messy, but everyone is enjoying themselves.
Quick private lesson (exhausting, great student but so enthusiastic) and then long rehearsal with the WAS band which was brilliant tonight. Which it needs to be as it was shit last week and our huge gig is next Saturday...
Took Mum shopping and it was stressful.
Afternoon at the college, firstly a fun private lesson there and then drum club, where we rehearsed the college rap with the cleaner. A bit messy, but everyone is enjoying themselves.
Quick private lesson (exhausting, great student but so enthusiastic) and then long rehearsal with the WAS band which was brilliant tonight. Which it needs to be as it was shit last week and our huge gig is next Saturday...
Tuesday 5th November 2019
Why do I feel hungover after writing, even if I haven't been drinking? Is it because both of them are pleasurable, often late night activities that my body wishes to punish?
Either way, I got over that 'hangover' and had an amazing time at the school today - one of my newer schools, but probably my favourite right now, if I'm allowed to have a favourite. It's just such a warm environment to teach in, where the staff are lovely, the kids are on it, everyone likes drums. We had our first ever school concert today and parents were crying with happiness at the end. I've had more praise doing these lessons (in particular today, in person and by email) then I ever have done with comedy or theatre.
Such was the success of the concert, I now have 8 extra students at that school, taking me up to 19 there, meaning I'm going to have to find an additional day to go there as it's more than a day's teaching. I don't mind at all, I feel like a champion when I'm in that one, happy to drop stuff for it.
Three private lessons followed (first one: a bit flat, second one: amazing, third one: pretty good from a consistently pretty good student) and then decent FH rehearsal in which we worked on new material.
Either way, I got over that 'hangover' and had an amazing time at the school today - one of my newer schools, but probably my favourite right now, if I'm allowed to have a favourite. It's just such a warm environment to teach in, where the staff are lovely, the kids are on it, everyone likes drums. We had our first ever school concert today and parents were crying with happiness at the end. I've had more praise doing these lessons (in particular today, in person and by email) then I ever have done with comedy or theatre.
Such was the success of the concert, I now have 8 extra students at that school, taking me up to 19 there, meaning I'm going to have to find an additional day to go there as it's more than a day's teaching. I don't mind at all, I feel like a champion when I'm in that one, happy to drop stuff for it.
Three private lessons followed (first one: a bit flat, second one: amazing, third one: pretty good from a consistently pretty good student) and then decent FH rehearsal in which we worked on new material.
Monday 4th November 2019
Last night was such good fun. Is there a future in sitcom podcasts? Maybe. Either, kind of living the dream.
Today I was back at my latest school, where, as before, they seemed to forget that they had a drum teacher and it was slightly awkward but all fine in the end. The kids, at least, were ready for me and they're making good progress.
Taught a new student, Susie, who was awesome, and then four more private lessons (first one: outstanding, second one: kid really on it, third one: fine, steady stuff, fourth one: a struggle, but we'll get there) and then was writing till 1am. It's going to be an exhausting week with so much teaching, so I need my late nights of writing under a dim lamp just to remind myself of who I really am.
Today I was back at my latest school, where, as before, they seemed to forget that they had a drum teacher and it was slightly awkward but all fine in the end. The kids, at least, were ready for me and they're making good progress.
Taught a new student, Susie, who was awesome, and then four more private lessons (first one: outstanding, second one: kid really on it, third one: fine, steady stuff, fourth one: a struggle, but we'll get there) and then was writing till 1am. It's going to be an exhausting week with so much teaching, so I need my late nights of writing under a dim lamp just to remind myself of who I really am.
Sunday, 3 November 2019
Sunday 3rd November 2019
Working on a Sunday? Yep. With a massive hangover? Indeed, but that bit is my fault. Last night ended very weirdly. Lucky that all of my Sunday students are so brilliant and lovely to teach, the day just flew by. Anyway, four private lessons in a row (first one: fine, second one: over-enthusiastic but great fun, third one: awesome, fourth one: new student, great fun, this'll be fine - he totally gets it, he'll be a long termer). The fifth one was cancelled due to the family not getting back in time from their day out.
Home for an hour to actually see A and have dinner with her, before out to the recording of my new podcast sitcom. A PERFECT cast, a great, last-minute director (Kate, who stepped in when Heather turned it down), flattered to be working with such a great little team here. 3 episodes recorded, we'll do another 3 in a couple weeks' time, and then I have to write another batch...the plan is to have at least 12 of these before going public. People are great, aren't they? For going along with my daft ideas?
Home for an hour to actually see A and have dinner with her, before out to the recording of my new podcast sitcom. A PERFECT cast, a great, last-minute director (Kate, who stepped in when Heather turned it down), flattered to be working with such a great little team here. 3 episodes recorded, we'll do another 3 in a couple weeks' time, and then I have to write another batch...the plan is to have at least 12 of these before going public. People are great, aren't they? For going along with my daft ideas?
Saturday 2nd November 2019
A bit of a dash today, starting early with three private lessons in a row (all were great today, everyone totally on it).
Home from those, dropped off car and then back on the train for the final show with Dom. For this show tonight, my mate Josie joined me, nice to catch up. Dom's audience were so quiet tonight, I think they enjoyed it but they were very much a 'smiling' audience rather than a lough out loud sort of crowd, but it was fine.
A few drinks ensued afterwards (even more so after meeting up with Esther in a bar in Islington), last show and all that, it all got messy and I'm still amazed I got home. I'm too old for this.
Home from those, dropped off car and then back on the train for the final show with Dom. For this show tonight, my mate Josie joined me, nice to catch up. Dom's audience were so quiet tonight, I think they enjoyed it but they were very much a 'smiling' audience rather than a lough out loud sort of crowd, but it was fine.
A few drinks ensued afterwards (even more so after meeting up with Esther in a bar in Islington), last show and all that, it all got messy and I'm still amazed I got home. I'm too old for this.
Friday, 1 November 2019
Friday 1st November 2019
Up early-ish to teach at the school that I moved from yesterday so that I could make it to tonight's gig (the kids were all great, slightly behind some of my other schools but enthusiastic and really up for it) and then dashed over to teach at my regular school, which I had to cut short to make it to tonight's show, making up the time next Wednesday morning instead. It's all mightily confusing, my schedule, yet I still take on more because I love to moan about it. Everyone seems happy, anyway.
Quick trip into London, Dom's show was good again tonight - not quite as good as last night due to disruptive hecklers, but still a solid, professional show. Home before 11pm, just a shame that A is out with her mates or I might have actually seen her.
Quick trip into London, Dom's show was good again tonight - not quite as good as last night due to disruptive hecklers, but still a solid, professional show. Home before 11pm, just a shame that A is out with her mates or I might have actually seen her.
Thursday, 31 October 2019
Thursday 31st October 2019
The contrast in schools still baffles me. Anyway, morning at my Thursday school where the room is so tiny I can't do my regular jumping about and the kids all have anger issues. It's literally just four hours of angry children and me trying really hard to get them playing properly. There are a few exceptions, of course, a few of them are great, but I have 12 students there now and it's hard work.
Moved my afternoon school to tomorrow morning, meaning I could get home, shower, get changed and get the train into London for the first of three nights at the West End drumming for Dom. Having done this show with him (and Chad the pianist) in Edinburgh 24 days in a row, all we needed was one rehearsal (two hours before the show tonight) to refresh and then we were back in the swing of things. Whilst I don't always agree with Dom's political views, he's a top guy and his show is honestly great; so polished, so much effort has gone into it, it works on a lot of levels. Sold out tonight, really loud audience who couldn't get enough of it, we ended up overrunning by 10 minutes due to the amount of people. Nice to be involved in that sort of show and it's an early finish as it starts a 7pm - I'm out the building by 8.30pm and home and writing this by 11...
Moved my afternoon school to tomorrow morning, meaning I could get home, shower, get changed and get the train into London for the first of three nights at the West End drumming for Dom. Having done this show with him (and Chad the pianist) in Edinburgh 24 days in a row, all we needed was one rehearsal (two hours before the show tonight) to refresh and then we were back in the swing of things. Whilst I don't always agree with Dom's political views, he's a top guy and his show is honestly great; so polished, so much effort has gone into it, it works on a lot of levels. Sold out tonight, really loud audience who couldn't get enough of it, we ended up overrunning by 10 minutes due to the amount of people. Nice to be involved in that sort of show and it's an early finish as it starts a 7pm - I'm out the building by 8.30pm and home and writing this by 11...
Wednesday 30th October 2019
Slight lie-in, as I don't teach till 11am on Wednesdays, and then off to my regular school where the facilities are amazing, the kids are excitable so I have to work quite hard but they're certainly progressing. We're getting dangerously close to 'Christmas music season', as discussed with the head of music. I'm cool with this.
Took Mum shopping and got stressed that the dog is slowly making my new Mercedes smell of, well, dog, and then off to the college for a private lesson (amazing today, amazing stuff - I've 'made' him into this brilliant drummer from scratch (since last February) and now he's storming it in a great band...this is why they pay me so much there, I've really worked hard with this kid - he works so hard and I've totally met him in the middle) and then an hour of drum club where we worked on the college rap with the singing cleaner ahead of the forthcoming concert. The kids all have stage fright and the cleaner aggressively asking all of my students (including the girls), 'Are you man, or mouse?' in his gravelly Jamaican voice probably didn't help.
Got angry with Cambridge traffic but eventually made it to my private lesson with Z (brilliant today, it's stagnated a bit recently but he's back on it today and these drum fill exercises are really helping) and then off to an intense WAS rehearsal. So intense. So much pressure. Again, this is why I'm technically top level (locally, at least) and on good money because...fuck, some of this stuff is ridiculous. I didn't enjoy that as much as I normally do.
Took Mum shopping and got stressed that the dog is slowly making my new Mercedes smell of, well, dog, and then off to the college for a private lesson (amazing today, amazing stuff - I've 'made' him into this brilliant drummer from scratch (since last February) and now he's storming it in a great band...this is why they pay me so much there, I've really worked hard with this kid - he works so hard and I've totally met him in the middle) and then an hour of drum club where we worked on the college rap with the singing cleaner ahead of the forthcoming concert. The kids all have stage fright and the cleaner aggressively asking all of my students (including the girls), 'Are you man, or mouse?' in his gravelly Jamaican voice probably didn't help.
Got angry with Cambridge traffic but eventually made it to my private lesson with Z (brilliant today, it's stagnated a bit recently but he's back on it today and these drum fill exercises are really helping) and then off to an intense WAS rehearsal. So intense. So much pressure. Again, this is why I'm technically top level (locally, at least) and on good money because...fuck, some of this stuff is ridiculous. I didn't enjoy that as much as I normally do.
Tuesday 29th October 2019
I say this every week, but I really like the school I teach at on Tuesdays. The set up is just perfect, the staff are really nice and the kids are so creative...it's just a shame that the wonderful lady who I also teach there (she works in the office at the school) has been made redundant as her love of ska music was a nice break from the usual stuff for me.
Home for an hour to clear away the dead mice that second favourite cat had left for me ON MY PILLOW and then back out for three private lessons (first one: kid too tired to enjoy it, second one: really fantastic, third one: good fun) and then long, late FH rehearsals where the guys went over chords and vocal harmonies and I played with my phone a lot.
Home for an hour to clear away the dead mice that second favourite cat had left for me ON MY PILLOW and then back out for three private lessons (first one: kid too tired to enjoy it, second one: really fantastic, third one: good fun) and then long, late FH rehearsals where the guys went over chords and vocal harmonies and I played with my phone a lot.
Wednesday, 30 October 2019
Monday 28th October 2019
Morning off from the 'new' school as there was a teachers' training day, that I only found out about yesterday. Still, finally a chance to get rid of the old car - it's gone to Greg's wife, who is learning to drive. It's the perfect car for a new driver as it doesn't go above 65 miles an hour.
Burying my head into work this week, rather than creative stuff, to pay for the car, my share of the wedding, our future children etc. Adulting is expensive, isn't it?
Five private lessons today (first one: lovely, such a great student, second one: amazing, such a great student, third one: better than normal, usually a very distracted student, fourth one: very, very productive, fifth one: student drifted a bit but seems happy and will be fine for the showcase, he's normally more on it than this - but then again, so am I).
It's all good.
Burying my head into work this week, rather than creative stuff, to pay for the car, my share of the wedding, our future children etc. Adulting is expensive, isn't it?
Five private lessons today (first one: lovely, such a great student, second one: amazing, such a great student, third one: better than normal, usually a very distracted student, fourth one: very, very productive, fifth one: student drifted a bit but seems happy and will be fine for the showcase, he's normally more on it than this - but then again, so am I).
It's all good.
Sunday 27th October 2019
So much of last night's show didn't work, which is worrying considering it's the 57th time I've performed it. I reckon it peaked around the 30-mark.
Bit hungover.
Taught three private lessons (first one: fine, second one: unexpectedly awesome, third one: student getting scared of forthcoming showcase and I'm not sure if I did enough to help) and then back home to tidy the house after last night's show/party thing, before sorting out teaching schedules whist listening to the disappointing Spurs game. My schedule for next week is daft; lots of teaching (I've taken on two extra students, even though I said I wouldn't take on any more - basically I'm only taking on students who I think would be fun to teach) plus a West End run with Dom. This basically means lots of double-bookings, but it's all working out.
Wedding prep course in the evening, all fine. I'm a proper grown-up these days.
Bit hungover.
Taught three private lessons (first one: fine, second one: unexpectedly awesome, third one: student getting scared of forthcoming showcase and I'm not sure if I did enough to help) and then back home to tidy the house after last night's show/party thing, before sorting out teaching schedules whist listening to the disappointing Spurs game. My schedule for next week is daft; lots of teaching (I've taken on two extra students, even though I said I wouldn't take on any more - basically I'm only taking on students who I think would be fun to teach) plus a West End run with Dom. This basically means lots of double-bookings, but it's all working out.
Wedding prep course in the evening, all fine. I'm a proper grown-up these days.
Sunday, 27 October 2019
Saturday 26th October 2019
Leisurely drive home, listening to good tunes, home by mid-afternoon.
Tidied up, set up the show and then a bunch of mates came over for tonight's HG performance - the last house show in a while. My audience tonight were all friends, and all lovely: Pascale, Matt, Rob, Alison, Adam, Vanessa, Rich, other Vanessa, Alan, Edd, Emily, Phill, Dan and Mark. The performance was sloppy tonight, some of the lines were lost, it should have been so much better but everyone was very friendly.
Had a bit of a party afterwards, and then Adam and Vanessa crashed at ours so the four of us stayed up till the early hours drinking lovely whisky.
Tidied up, set up the show and then a bunch of mates came over for tonight's HG performance - the last house show in a while. My audience tonight were all friends, and all lovely: Pascale, Matt, Rob, Alison, Adam, Vanessa, Rich, other Vanessa, Alan, Edd, Emily, Phill, Dan and Mark. The performance was sloppy tonight, some of the lines were lost, it should have been so much better but everyone was very friendly.
Had a bit of a party afterwards, and then Adam and Vanessa crashed at ours so the four of us stayed up till the early hours drinking lovely whisky.
Friday 25th October 2019
Up early to head off to the Cotswolds for the night with A. It was part of her birthday present that I got her ages ago...gin tasting and a fancy hotel.
Really early start, but we were there in good time (this car is brilliant) and the gin/whisky tour was amazing. Drinking at 11am, though? Good fun, but we were pissed out our faces by lunchtime.
Spent a large chunk of our afternoon then just spent in the hotel room (I'll spare you the details), before hanging out in the spa and steam room for a while which was lovely.
Shame the restaurant at the hotel was so bad. Fancy place, but the service was shocking and I had an upset stomach after a dodgy steak (I'll spare you the details).
Still, nice to get away, isn't it?
Really early start, but we were there in good time (this car is brilliant) and the gin/whisky tour was amazing. Drinking at 11am, though? Good fun, but we were pissed out our faces by lunchtime.
Spent a large chunk of our afternoon then just spent in the hotel room (I'll spare you the details), before hanging out in the spa and steam room for a while which was lovely.
Shame the restaurant at the hotel was so bad. Fancy place, but the service was shocking and I had an upset stomach after a dodgy steak (I'll spare you the details).
Still, nice to get away, isn't it?
Thursday 24th October 2019
I didn't sleep well last night, worried about today. A big day. My mum met A's parents for the first time. It was fine, they all really got on and the dog was a nice distraction. We also all tried out various wedding cake options, the wedding itself is clearly going to be HUGE.
In the afternoon taught two private lessons (both fine, lots of progress) and then HG house show around Amanda's place. Easily the best this show has looked since Edinburgh; mega tight, audience crying at the end, as punchy as anything. Great to catch up with Josie afterwards, everyone there was just so nice. A cracking evening where I felt like a hero.
In the afternoon taught two private lessons (both fine, lots of progress) and then HG house show around Amanda's place. Easily the best this show has looked since Edinburgh; mega tight, audience crying at the end, as punchy as anything. Great to catch up with Josie afterwards, everyone there was just so nice. A cracking evening where I felt like a hero.
Wednesday 23rd October 2019
Mum's birthday, so took the day out to treat her to do whatever she wanted to. She chose to go to some lake area, where people bring their dogs, and on paper it all looked lovely but it was basically down a farm track and I got worried about my new car, which is very low and I think I now have a chip on my windscreen because of it.
Then took her to various shops in Cambridge, and then late lunch.
BBC recording cancelled tonight as the director was ill, so an unexpected night in with A, with a nice dinner.
Then took her to various shops in Cambridge, and then late lunch.
BBC recording cancelled tonight as the director was ill, so an unexpected night in with A, with a nice dinner.
Tuesday 22nd October 2019
Did some more writing of episode 7 this morning, before A and myself headed into town to do 'scary adult things' - ie; have a meeting with the bank to sort out our joint bank account, and then to spent a ridiculous amount of money on a really fancy, but will certainly be amazing, honeymoon.
Then dashed across town to teach a lesson to a very reluctant student, before heading home for a couple hours, which was mostly spent having a cat nap.
Evening had my latest HG house show, this time for Gerry. I always felt this would be a tougher show, some of her lot had seen me do stand-up many years ago and never appeared to be onside, but tonight was lovely. True, there was distractions (dogs, mostly) but it was tight, lively and lots of people said nice things afterwards.
Then dashed across town to teach a lesson to a very reluctant student, before heading home for a couple hours, which was mostly spent having a cat nap.
Evening had my latest HG house show, this time for Gerry. I always felt this would be a tougher show, some of her lot had seen me do stand-up many years ago and never appeared to be onside, but tonight was lovely. True, there was distractions (dogs, mostly) but it was tight, lively and lots of people said nice things afterwards.
Monday 21st October 2019
Planned as my absolute, total day off, but I still took on one lesson - a student who was supposed to be in yesterday morning but was feeling sick so I took pity on her and put her in today instead. It was a very productive lesson, she's one of the best ones I've got.
Got back and spent a majority of the day working on my 'teaching for pensioners' idea - website, all care homes messaged etc. Already quite a lot of interest, which is lovely.
A producer sent me over some venue suggestions for a HG tour so I then spent a few hours emailing all of those, with a February tour in mind.
I then just slept, a lot, because it feels like I haven't done that for a while.
Got back and spent a majority of the day working on my 'teaching for pensioners' idea - website, all care homes messaged etc. Already quite a lot of interest, which is lovely.
A producer sent me over some venue suggestions for a HG tour so I then spent a few hours emailing all of those, with a February tour in mind.
I then just slept, a lot, because it feels like I haven't done that for a while.
Sunday 20th October 2019
Determined to write a lot during this half term, but my to-do list of other stuff is growing...always growing.
Still, did a bit of work on episode 7 of the radio sitcom, what with the first six being recorded at the start of next month.
I love, love, love this new car. It's so easy to drive. After half-term my teaching schedule is busier than ever and that involves driving around a lot, but in this car it'll be a real pleasure. Just need to get rid of the other one now.
Caught up on teaching admin, mostly invoicing parents.
Taught a lesson with one of my favourite students, did a bit more work and in the evening performed HG around Inge's house. Such a lovely evening; lovely (huge) audience, enough running space for me, everyone onside and the performance was the strongest it's been for a long time. They also had a whip-round at the end, which I wasn't expecting, and I made over a hundred quid out of it. More evenings like this, please.
Still, did a bit of work on episode 7 of the radio sitcom, what with the first six being recorded at the start of next month.
I love, love, love this new car. It's so easy to drive. After half-term my teaching schedule is busier than ever and that involves driving around a lot, but in this car it'll be a real pleasure. Just need to get rid of the other one now.
Caught up on teaching admin, mostly invoicing parents.
Taught a lesson with one of my favourite students, did a bit more work and in the evening performed HG around Inge's house. Such a lovely evening; lovely (huge) audience, enough running space for me, everyone onside and the performance was the strongest it's been for a long time. They also had a whip-round at the end, which I wasn't expecting, and I made over a hundred quid out of it. More evenings like this, please.
Saturday, 19 October 2019
Saturday 19th October 2019
Bit hungover, but Andy's screaming child woke us all up in good time.
Wonderful three lessons (I know, three lessons on a Saturday, crazy), everyone on good form in good spirits.
Today was an expensive day, but I'm sorted now for all of the things I want in life. Went to a computer fair and picked up an expensive, but hopefully amazing, Mac. It has lots of top-level audio recording software included, as well as very high-end video editing software. No idea how to use any of it, of course, but creativity looms.
Then went and bought the Mercedes. A lovely car, so comfortable to drive. So many gadgets, some of them quite confusing.
But yeah, I have everything I need now. It's all good.
Evening house show at Tim's, much better than last night, about 30 people in, feels like I made a lot of new friends tonight.
Wonderful three lessons (I know, three lessons on a Saturday, crazy), everyone on good form in good spirits.
Today was an expensive day, but I'm sorted now for all of the things I want in life. Went to a computer fair and picked up an expensive, but hopefully amazing, Mac. It has lots of top-level audio recording software included, as well as very high-end video editing software. No idea how to use any of it, of course, but creativity looms.
Then went and bought the Mercedes. A lovely car, so comfortable to drive. So many gadgets, some of them quite confusing.
But yeah, I have everything I need now. It's all good.
Evening house show at Tim's, much better than last night, about 30 people in, feels like I made a lot of new friends tonight.
Friday 18th October 2019
My lie-in day! I enjoyed it very much, thank you.
Went into town and bought some new shirts and cashed in some wages, then had a nice hour at the school.
One private lesson followed (was fine) and then over to Andy's house for the first performance of HG since the fringe, and the start of my run of house shows. It was a lot better than I thought it was going to be, audience not always engaged by it, but enough laughs in the right places. We got REALLY drunk afterwards, like old friends do.
Went into town and bought some new shirts and cashed in some wages, then had a nice hour at the school.
One private lesson followed (was fine) and then over to Andy's house for the first performance of HG since the fringe, and the start of my run of house shows. It was a lot better than I thought it was going to be, audience not always engaged by it, but enough laughs in the right places. We got REALLY drunk afterwards, like old friends do.
Thursday 17th October 2019
My Thursday school is always so aggressive. Why is this? It's tough, today was a tough one there.
The next school was fine, it was a relief.
Quick private lesson with one of my regulars and then long rehearsal with the choir. The gig is quite soon, under a month a way, it feels like a lot of work needs to be done...
The next school was fine, it was a relief.
Quick private lesson with one of my regulars and then long rehearsal with the choir. The gig is quite soon, under a month a way, it feels like a lot of work needs to be done...
Wednesday 16th October 2019
The insurance for my new car (which I pick up on Saturday) is mega expensive. I guess going from a Renault Scenic to a Mercedes is quite a big jump. I won't miss the Scenic, an awful car.
Good lessons at the school in the morning, took Mum shopping in the afternoon and then the college was great today; we're preparing for a big concert and everyone seems up for it.
Quick drive over to Ely for a nice gig with Greg and band, warm audience and nice rapport onstage between the four of us, for quite good money. No complaints at all.
Good lessons at the school in the morning, took Mum shopping in the afternoon and then the college was great today; we're preparing for a big concert and everyone seems up for it.
Quick drive over to Ely for a nice gig with Greg and band, warm audience and nice rapport onstage between the four of us, for quite good money. No complaints at all.
Tuesday 15th October 2019
Really enjoyed the school today, everyone just seemed a bit sharper than normal, and I clearly was, too.
The private lessons afterwards all felt flat in comparison, but we're sticking to my schedule and everyone is learning what they should be.
Home in good time to actually have dinner with A, and then rehearse the HG show for the first time since August. It's mostly there. Mostly.
The private lessons afterwards all felt flat in comparison, but we're sticking to my schedule and everyone is learning what they should be.
Home in good time to actually have dinner with A, and then rehearse the HG show for the first time since August. It's mostly there. Mostly.
Monday 14th October 2019
My second day at my 'new' school and I liked it just as much; they're all good kids, this can work really well.
5 private lessons followed (first one - excellent, second one - too chatty but everyone is happy, third one - kid too distracted, fourth one - fantastic, we worked on a lot of jazz, fifth one - fine) and then over to Jacqui's house to record percussion for our new Christmas single.
5 private lessons followed (first one - excellent, second one - too chatty but everyone is happy, third one - kid too distracted, fourth one - fantastic, we worked on a lot of jazz, fifth one - fine) and then over to Jacqui's house to record percussion for our new Christmas single.
Sunday 13th October 2019
On very little sleep, we hit the road and headed home. Slept pretty much the whole way, of the 5-hour journey.
Got back and went to look at a new car. I know I only bought my Scenic last November, but it's been nothing but issues, including three breakdowns, so I've always been on the lookout for something else...especially now that I have a slightly larger budget thanks to all the work.
The 'new' car is a 12-year-old Mercedes, being sold by a mate. Good price, I fell in love with it straight away and agreed to buy it. I then had to convince A that it was a good move, as I know she wanted me to get something newer, but I went for it anyway.
Evening it was our second Wedding Prep Course night, which flew by and we got told about sex and stuff.
Got back and went to look at a new car. I know I only bought my Scenic last November, but it's been nothing but issues, including three breakdowns, so I've always been on the lookout for something else...especially now that I have a slightly larger budget thanks to all the work.
The 'new' car is a 12-year-old Mercedes, being sold by a mate. Good price, I fell in love with it straight away and agreed to buy it. I then had to convince A that it was a good move, as I know she wanted me to get something newer, but I went for it anyway.
Evening it was our second Wedding Prep Course night, which flew by and we got told about sex and stuff.
Saturday 12th October 2019
Back on the road, an early start and an early-is crossing back to the mainland, before a 3 hour drive down to Devon. Tired band.
This is a gig we stormed last year without G, who randomly pulled out. Obviously, we don't have him at all now, but we're settled enough. Sold-out show, amazingly good dinner and plenty of free beer. The set was fine, audience only really got into it when we went into a covers set in the second half. I guess at the end of the day we're being paid to entertain, and we certainly did that. My Auntie Carol turned up and danced at the front, which was slightly weird.
Drank late-night whisky with the landlord of our B+B and then Vix (my roommate for these out-of-town gigs) and I stayed up till very late chatting about everything, and drinking cider, as the boys slept in the other room. Top girl, one of the best.
This is a gig we stormed last year without G, who randomly pulled out. Obviously, we don't have him at all now, but we're settled enough. Sold-out show, amazingly good dinner and plenty of free beer. The set was fine, audience only really got into it when we went into a covers set in the second half. I guess at the end of the day we're being paid to entertain, and we certainly did that. My Auntie Carol turned up and danced at the front, which was slightly weird.
Drank late-night whisky with the landlord of our B+B and then Vix (my roommate for these out-of-town gigs) and I stayed up till very late chatting about everything, and drinking cider, as the boys slept in the other room. Top girl, one of the best.
Friday 11th October 2019
FH off to the Isle of Wight today. V left it late booking our ferry, we very nearly missed out altogether but in the end we took a much earlier ferry and got away with it. Much stress ensued, but we hired a great little van and it was comfortable enough.
Long day - we drove down to Portsmouth, and then on the Ferry for 45 minutes, and then another hour on the road, but I loved it all, just catching up on emails and hanging out with some of my best buddies.
The gig was a bit like the last time we were there...a very big, but very reserved audience, who only really got into it in the second half. We were awesome tonight, really tight.
The Isle of Wight is an odd place at this time of year; literally nobody about and all the bars are closed by 11pm. We wanted to have a few drinks, but settled on a takeaway at midnight by the deserted seafront.
Long day - we drove down to Portsmouth, and then on the Ferry for 45 minutes, and then another hour on the road, but I loved it all, just catching up on emails and hanging out with some of my best buddies.
The gig was a bit like the last time we were there...a very big, but very reserved audience, who only really got into it in the second half. We were awesome tonight, really tight.
The Isle of Wight is an odd place at this time of year; literally nobody about and all the bars are closed by 11pm. We wanted to have a few drinks, but settled on a takeaway at midnight by the deserted seafront.
Thursday 10th October 2019
Well, at least I got my writing done this evening - just working on the GP show, it's sounding cool already.
Two schools today (first one: aggressive, second one: so painfully quiet) and three private lessons with no sense of logic regarding their locations so I was zig-zagging about all over the place.
Two schools today (first one: aggressive, second one: so painfully quiet) and three private lessons with no sense of logic regarding their locations so I was zig-zagging about all over the place.
Wednesday 9th October 2019
This has been such a long term, it's just going on forever. It is a real job, I've accepted that, but I am worried that it's stopping me be as creative as I'd like. This evening was a quieter one, I was done and home by 8.30pm but instead of writing I slobbed out on the sofa.
It's fine, tomorrow I'll have more energy. Today, though, I taught in the school, at the college (including private students) and two private lessons after that. We got through it.
It's fine, tomorrow I'll have more energy. Today, though, I taught in the school, at the college (including private students) and two private lessons after that. We got through it.
Tuesday 8th October 2019
Fun day at one of my latest schools; so much to get through there, always a bit tight for time but we somehow manage to just about get away with it.
Three private lessons in three very different locations followed, all of them just 'fine' - it feels like proper work sometimes, but I know what I'm doing with this.
Then over to the pub for a catch up with Greg and Sam to discuss our new regular night, and to generally just drink beer and chat nonsense, in the best possible way.
Three private lessons in three very different locations followed, all of them just 'fine' - it feels like proper work sometimes, but I know what I'm doing with this.
Then over to the pub for a catch up with Greg and Sam to discuss our new regular night, and to generally just drink beer and chat nonsense, in the best possible way.
Monday 7th October 2019
Finally started at my latest school, after quite a long delay. I'd heard/read some negative things about it, Ofsted and all that, but actually it's a total joy - the classes are huge, so when the kids get to me they are so grateful for the one-to-one attention. It's going to be more than fine.
Then dashed over from there for a meeting with Jonny, who is directing the HG film. Just an excuse to catch up if anything else, a quick progress check, it's a slow process, this feature film lark, but we're getting there.
My usual 4 Monday private lessons followed (first one - really amazing, second one - kid far too distracted, third one - student is fine but the lesson felt slow, fourth one - good fun) and back to writing at home. So many ideas, not enough me.
Then dashed over from there for a meeting with Jonny, who is directing the HG film. Just an excuse to catch up if anything else, a quick progress check, it's a slow process, this feature film lark, but we're getting there.
My usual 4 Monday private lessons followed (first one - really amazing, second one - kid far too distracted, third one - student is fine but the lesson felt slow, fourth one - good fun) and back to writing at home. So many ideas, not enough me.
Sunday, 6 October 2019
Sunday 6th October 2019
Three lessons on a Sunday?! But all great, in different sorts of ways (the first one - outstanding, because the student requested an amazing song I'd never heard before and it was lovely, second one - one of my favourite students who asks so many questions and pushes me but he's getting there, third one - one of my very long-term students, we went over his bits for the concert and I had a nice chat to his lovely mum who is very much a friend), done by 2pm so I could have lunch with A who is in TOTAL WEDDING MODE.
Which is fine. But it's still 299 days, 11 hours and 59 minutes away, according to a countdown thing that we've both got on our phones. We enjoyed the time together this afternoon, before she went off to watch Downtown Abbey with her mum in the studio and I worked out my register and lesson plan for my first day at the new school tomorrow morning.
In the evening I met up with Alan, other Alan, Liz, Samantha, Warren and Rory for a reading of all six episodes of my band sitcom. It's for a podcast release, written with that in mind and it really, really works - this team are amazing. Really happy with the scripts, there were some moments where the cast couldn't speak because they were laughing too much (a particular favourite being, "So, how was your evening...did you get up to much?" - "I ate ham alone.")
It's gonna be great. We've got a former Blue Peter presenter and a guy who was in Hot Fuzz in this show, alongside the others. A great team, recording dates in the diary for November.
Which is fine. But it's still 299 days, 11 hours and 59 minutes away, according to a countdown thing that we've both got on our phones. We enjoyed the time together this afternoon, before she went off to watch Downtown Abbey with her mum in the studio and I worked out my register and lesson plan for my first day at the new school tomorrow morning.
In the evening I met up with Alan, other Alan, Liz, Samantha, Warren and Rory for a reading of all six episodes of my band sitcom. It's for a podcast release, written with that in mind and it really, really works - this team are amazing. Really happy with the scripts, there were some moments where the cast couldn't speak because they were laughing too much (a particular favourite being, "So, how was your evening...did you get up to much?" - "I ate ham alone.")
It's gonna be great. We've got a former Blue Peter presenter and a guy who was in Hot Fuzz in this show, alongside the others. A great team, recording dates in the diary for November.
Saturday 5th October 2019
It honestly is all good, at the moment. I'm in two amazing bands, I have a BBC radio sitcom thing being recorded, I have a West End run of my hit Edinburgh show, I earn plenty of money teaching people how to drum (I start in yet another school next week) and I love drums, I'm getting married to a beautiful girl who really looks after me (not that I need looking after). 2 years ago I would have killed for this. 2 years ago I was nothing.
Yet still I get grumpy about the fact that I am, well, growing up. Josie, Vix and I wanted to party after last night's gig because we'd had a fun night, but I didn't because: 1) as established, there's no such thing as a quick drink with Josie and I need to see more of my future wife and 2) I had to teach at 9.30am this morning. Like a grown-up, with a job.
The lesson itself was lovely. Just the one today as my other Saturday student was away, but really worth the trip over. I get on well with the dad of the kid, we both like football and Fleabag.
Got home, got stroppy to myself about the show I'm writing for Emma. It just doesn't work. The idea is AMAZING, but the show doesn't work, at all. She's waited ages for this. I've decided to scrap it, I've restarted writing it 4 times now, it just isn't happening. I'll write her something else instead.
Small but wonderful FH gig tonight, we're getting so tight now and the buzz is back. Prue is a wonderful addition, not just onstage but off it (she gets our humour - she and I had a mini food fight backstage tonight), I want it to work for V, who was the only one who believed in this project when everyone else was looking elsewhere. We're on the way up, again, and it's a lovely thing.
Yet still I get grumpy about the fact that I am, well, growing up. Josie, Vix and I wanted to party after last night's gig because we'd had a fun night, but I didn't because: 1) as established, there's no such thing as a quick drink with Josie and I need to see more of my future wife and 2) I had to teach at 9.30am this morning. Like a grown-up, with a job.
The lesson itself was lovely. Just the one today as my other Saturday student was away, but really worth the trip over. I get on well with the dad of the kid, we both like football and Fleabag.
Got home, got stroppy to myself about the show I'm writing for Emma. It just doesn't work. The idea is AMAZING, but the show doesn't work, at all. She's waited ages for this. I've decided to scrap it, I've restarted writing it 4 times now, it just isn't happening. I'll write her something else instead.
Small but wonderful FH gig tonight, we're getting so tight now and the buzz is back. Prue is a wonderful addition, not just onstage but off it (she gets our humour - she and I had a mini food fight backstage tonight), I want it to work for V, who was the only one who believed in this project when everyone else was looking elsewhere. We're on the way up, again, and it's a lovely thing.
Friday 4th October 2019
Huzzah for Friday, which is my favourite day of the week because I don't have to do anything until 1pm! Although that may change if my new plan comes together, I've turned down two primary schools for this slot - I want to try something else for my Friday mornings and I'm quite excited about the idea.
Needed the lie-in this morning, though, never a quick drink with Josie.
The school was fine today, everyone seems happy, and the private lesson after was okay; we're working on a tricky song but she's a good student.
In the evening, FH played a cracking venue, supporting our friends who had their album launch. A year or so ago we were headlining these sort of venues ourselves but it's been a weird year, a really weird year. We're back, though, the confidence is (re)building. A brilliant night - both bands were on outstanding form.
Needed the lie-in this morning, though, never a quick drink with Josie.
The school was fine today, everyone seems happy, and the private lesson after was okay; we're working on a tricky song but she's a good student.
In the evening, FH played a cracking venue, supporting our friends who had their album launch. A year or so ago we were headlining these sort of venues ourselves but it's been a weird year, a really weird year. We're back, though, the confidence is (re)building. A brilliant night - both bands were on outstanding form.
Thursday 3rd October 2019
My 'this day only works if the roads are clear' day of the week. Two of my 'other' schools, where the kids are aggressive and my kit is often beaten more than I'd like. It was fine, 2 schools, 15 loud students...it's work, isn't it?
Both private lessons were outstanding, and I had a gap in the middle to come home and tidy the house ahead of the estate agent coming around to value it. Turns out it's worth exactly the same as the house we're about to buy, which I think it's logical. I mean, we're basically leaving a 2-bed house in a remarkably posh area, to go to a 4-bed house in an area where (as I was told by a friend) kids "ask if you have a spare quid". Think of the drum studio, though...
I'm not on the edge as such, but there's just a lot happening at the moment. I've confirmed my West End run, both bands have loads of gigs coming up, my teaching business means I'm working 11 hours a day, we've got the HG film in development, the GP show which I really need to write at some point as it's such an opportunity, the wedding, the house move...I was feeling it a bit today.
My old mucker Josie is having a bit of a, shall we say, confusing time as well, so we met up tonight for beer and about 5 hours of solid chat. She's a goodun, a real goodun. I'm really happy we met randomly at that covers gig in Histon a couple of years ago, a real friendship is born.
Both private lessons were outstanding, and I had a gap in the middle to come home and tidy the house ahead of the estate agent coming around to value it. Turns out it's worth exactly the same as the house we're about to buy, which I think it's logical. I mean, we're basically leaving a 2-bed house in a remarkably posh area, to go to a 4-bed house in an area where (as I was told by a friend) kids "ask if you have a spare quid". Think of the drum studio, though...
I'm not on the edge as such, but there's just a lot happening at the moment. I've confirmed my West End run, both bands have loads of gigs coming up, my teaching business means I'm working 11 hours a day, we've got the HG film in development, the GP show which I really need to write at some point as it's such an opportunity, the wedding, the house move...I was feeling it a bit today.
My old mucker Josie is having a bit of a, shall we say, confusing time as well, so we met up tonight for beer and about 5 hours of solid chat. She's a goodun, a real goodun. I'm really happy we met randomly at that covers gig in Histon a couple of years ago, a real friendship is born.
Wednesday 2nd October 2019
The problem with now starting at the school slightly later is that is that I get a kinda lie-in, but not quite a lie-in, and a result I end up just being drowsy and being late. It's good though, always a nice school, attentive kids and only an hour so my own energy is still pretty high.
Took Mum shopping and my car played up a lot, but it just about kept going. That car must go at some point. I'm earning okay but I'm just really, really stingy. And West End runs, and weddings, and houses...it all costs a lot. And, I want to get a Macbook just so I can get Garageband and record a solo album hip-hop album under the name of Ian, obviously.
The college was outstanding today, the private lesson there beforehand was fine, but 'drum club' afterwards was really fun. Last week, I really didn't have control over the room, but this week only 4 people turned up and we had a very lovely time.
Two private lessons followed (first one: awesome, second one: the kid keeps wanting to do songs with rude words in and his parents keep thinking it's me that's picking these songs and then the kid laughs as I take the blame AND IT'S LIKE THIS EVERY WEEK) and then WAS rehearsal with our rather brilliant new guitarist. Such a chilled out session, totally what I needed.
Took Mum shopping and my car played up a lot, but it just about kept going. That car must go at some point. I'm earning okay but I'm just really, really stingy. And West End runs, and weddings, and houses...it all costs a lot. And, I want to get a Macbook just so I can get Garageband and record a solo album hip-hop album under the name of Ian, obviously.
The college was outstanding today, the private lesson there beforehand was fine, but 'drum club' afterwards was really fun. Last week, I really didn't have control over the room, but this week only 4 people turned up and we had a very lovely time.
Two private lessons followed (first one: awesome, second one: the kid keeps wanting to do songs with rude words in and his parents keep thinking it's me that's picking these songs and then the kid laughs as I take the blame AND IT'S LIKE THIS EVERY WEEK) and then WAS rehearsal with our rather brilliant new guitarist. Such a chilled out session, totally what I needed.
Tuesday, 1 October 2019
Tuesday 1st October 2019
Yeah, today was a bit flat, to be honest, after all the many fun things of yesterday. The school was fine, this new-ish one is still one of my favourites even if there is a lot of waiting around. One parent complained that their child's lesson was "only 16 minutes instead of 20" and I had to explain that it's because the lesson was at lunchtime and the child requested that they eat, rather than learn. We get a lot of that.
Confirmed the West End run for HG. Next February. I'll get Christmas out of the way and go for it.
Three private lessons (first one - really nice and very polite, second one - kid was a bit rusty but we got there in the end, third one - great) and home to have dinner with A, and apologise a lot for how busy I am for the rest of the week...
Confirmed the West End run for HG. Next February. I'll get Christmas out of the way and go for it.
Three private lessons (first one - really nice and very polite, second one - kid was a bit rusty but we got there in the end, third one - great) and home to have dinner with A, and apologise a lot for how busy I am for the rest of the week...
Monday 30th September 2019
That was a bit of a busy day. Started working on my tax return last night, and nailed it all this morning - not as much as I thought I'd have to pay, but still enough to make me go "shit, probably should have kept track of this and put a bit more aside." It's all doable, though. I'll learn from this in the future, too.
Midway through my first lesson I get a text from Dom asking me to call him, after the lesson I do and it turns out he has a gig offer in Mexico and he'd like to bring his fringe band (me and the pianist) with him for the show - we're already doing the London run next month with him. I mean, it's Mexico for ONE GIG, but equally it's expenses paid and they're nice people, we could have a bit of a laugh doing it?
I then decided to bite the bullet and book my own West End run in for HG. My thinking had to been to go to another London venue and invite all manner of producers, but in the end...well, who needs money, anyway? I've funded the three nights myself. On paper it's expensive, but I only need to sell 20 tickets a night to break even, in a 70-capacity, very central room.
Somebody in the US bought the performance rights to a play I wrote ages ago and never liked then. This play has made me a lot of money over the years, as much as I've never really liked it.
We've made an offer for the new house. Fingers crossed...it has a ready-made drum studio and everything.
Taught six private lessons today (first one - tired but fine, second one - wonderful, third one - best in a very long time - I was on fire!, fourth one - kid was too distracted, fifth one - fine, but needs a few more ideas, sixth one - excellent).
I kinda hope the rest of the week calms down a bit...
Midway through my first lesson I get a text from Dom asking me to call him, after the lesson I do and it turns out he has a gig offer in Mexico and he'd like to bring his fringe band (me and the pianist) with him for the show - we're already doing the London run next month with him. I mean, it's Mexico for ONE GIG, but equally it's expenses paid and they're nice people, we could have a bit of a laugh doing it?
I then decided to bite the bullet and book my own West End run in for HG. My thinking had to been to go to another London venue and invite all manner of producers, but in the end...well, who needs money, anyway? I've funded the three nights myself. On paper it's expensive, but I only need to sell 20 tickets a night to break even, in a 70-capacity, very central room.
Somebody in the US bought the performance rights to a play I wrote ages ago and never liked then. This play has made me a lot of money over the years, as much as I've never really liked it.
We've made an offer for the new house. Fingers crossed...it has a ready-made drum studio and everything.
Taught six private lessons today (first one - tired but fine, second one - wonderful, third one - best in a very long time - I was on fire!, fourth one - kid was too distracted, fifth one - fine, but needs a few more ideas, sixth one - excellent).
I kinda hope the rest of the week calms down a bit...
Sunday, 29 September 2019
Sunday 29th September 2019
Slept in. We were supposed to be camping but it was AMAZING to not be camping.
Tidied the house, a lot. It's up for valuations, and viewings. Of course it is. It has to be SPOTLESS. Nothing I've ever owned is SPOTLESS. I'm a bit skanky around the edges but that's only because my priorities are different.
I like this house, but it won't fit the four babies in A wants to have at some point soon. I've negotiated it well; one dog per child. I get dog broody, see. I want a greyhound. Or four of them. A flock of greyhounds? She's agreed, it's fine, relationships are all about compromise.
WAS rehearsal was both lovely and tense today. Tense because I couldn't see our illustrious leader such was set-up; the piano was lost and the timings were all over the place. But lovely because everyone applauds me regularly which is great for my ego and it's amazing to hang out with Josie, who is one of those people that you just need to hang out with when you've got 8 million projects on the go and want somebody to tell you, "that's because you're awesome." She does that, convincingly, and I'm looking forward to a piss-up with her next week.
Evening A and myself had to a 'marriage course' which is a Catholic thing, Basically an hour and a half of a woman telling us how we 'must' be ready for this, as I discretely refreshed Facebook on my phone.
Tidied the house, a lot. It's up for valuations, and viewings. Of course it is. It has to be SPOTLESS. Nothing I've ever owned is SPOTLESS. I'm a bit skanky around the edges but that's only because my priorities are different.
I like this house, but it won't fit the four babies in A wants to have at some point soon. I've negotiated it well; one dog per child. I get dog broody, see. I want a greyhound. Or four of them. A flock of greyhounds? She's agreed, it's fine, relationships are all about compromise.
WAS rehearsal was both lovely and tense today. Tense because I couldn't see our illustrious leader such was set-up; the piano was lost and the timings were all over the place. But lovely because everyone applauds me regularly which is great for my ego and it's amazing to hang out with Josie, who is one of those people that you just need to hang out with when you've got 8 million projects on the go and want somebody to tell you, "that's because you're awesome." She does that, convincingly, and I'm looking forward to a piss-up with her next week.
Evening A and myself had to a 'marriage course' which is a Catholic thing, Basically an hour and a half of a woman telling us how we 'must' be ready for this, as I discretely refreshed Facebook on my phone.
Saturday 28th September 2019
Spent most of yesterday praying for a bad weather forecast and today it turned out there was weather warnings so we couldn't go camping! Amazing stuff, maybe I will give this whole religion thing a go someday (I'm aware that I'm marrying into a deeply religious family).
All three of my private lessons today worked. I was late for all of them but nobody seemed to mind, Cambridge is horrible for getting anywhere quickly.
We've put an offer in for the house. The 4 bedroom house. 2 years ago I was struggling to pay the rent on my room in a shared place. 2 years later I'm part of a fucking mortgage (with a critically acclaimed show, a booming teaching business, a collaboration with a singer-songwriter I've worshipped for years, a feature film being made next April that has already been accepted by Netflix, a West End offer for the show version, a radio sitcom being made by the BBC Radio and Theatre Group...) and it all feels a bit too grown-up. A has done that, she's really quite brilliant for me. I just needed a girl to get me on the right tracks.
The festival tonight was tiny and, not being arrogant, we were probably above this a couple of years ago, but the industry changes quickly and we've probably dipped down the pecking order a bit. Either way, in front of a rammed audience we totally blitzed it. FH are on fire!
All three of my private lessons today worked. I was late for all of them but nobody seemed to mind, Cambridge is horrible for getting anywhere quickly.
We've put an offer in for the house. The 4 bedroom house. 2 years ago I was struggling to pay the rent on my room in a shared place. 2 years later I'm part of a fucking mortgage (with a critically acclaimed show, a booming teaching business, a collaboration with a singer-songwriter I've worshipped for years, a feature film being made next April that has already been accepted by Netflix, a West End offer for the show version, a radio sitcom being made by the BBC Radio and Theatre Group...) and it all feels a bit too grown-up. A has done that, she's really quite brilliant for me. I just needed a girl to get me on the right tracks.
The festival tonight was tiny and, not being arrogant, we were probably above this a couple of years ago, but the industry changes quickly and we've probably dipped down the pecking order a bit. Either way, in front of a rammed audience we totally blitzed it. FH are on fire!
Friday 27th September 2019
The show I'm writing for Emma is probably the best thing I've ever written. Just putting that out there now...due to my schedule, I mostly start writing at midnight, for 2 hours, aided by Jack Daniels. You can just feel that in the script...it's dark stuff, it deals with cancer, it deals with knowing you won't live forever, but it also deals with why disco is such an underrated genre of music. Basically, death and disco.
It'll be a few months before I send this to Emma, but she's waited a year for it already, another few months won't hurt. She's read the first two pages outloud (at the fringe, in a bar) and was totally 'Jenny' already, so we're onto a good thing here.
Didn't have to start till 1pm today, now I've shoved the other school over to Thursday afternoons. Great lie-in, and then paid in some wages in town before getting a burger. It's a fine life, really.
The school was great today, all 6 students understanding it, and then both private lessons felt really productive. I'm on form, as a teacher, I can feel that.
Evening A and I met up with my friend Mike and his partner to see Fleabag at the cinema, it was totally amazing.
It'll be a few months before I send this to Emma, but she's waited a year for it already, another few months won't hurt. She's read the first two pages outloud (at the fringe, in a bar) and was totally 'Jenny' already, so we're onto a good thing here.
Didn't have to start till 1pm today, now I've shoved the other school over to Thursday afternoons. Great lie-in, and then paid in some wages in town before getting a burger. It's a fine life, really.
The school was great today, all 6 students understanding it, and then both private lessons felt really productive. I'm on form, as a teacher, I can feel that.
Evening A and I met up with my friend Mike and his partner to see Fleabag at the cinema, it was totally amazing.
Thursday 26th September 2019
The 'other' school was lovely today. I've really worked out how to deal with them all ('them' being the students) and it was a fun few hours. Then dashed over to the school that used to be on Friday mornings but I've moved them to Thursdays now to save on fuel and I just about got away with it. Just four students there, three of which are really into it.
Just the one private lesson after as Z, my regular Thursday student, was ill. The lesson was fine, even if we were just going over old stuff to boost the kids' confidence.
A and myself then looked at a new house. A bigger house. It's scary adult stuff, this. We looked at a 4-bedroom place, miles out of town and an absolute pigstye, but with so much potential. In the early 80s it was a recording studio and one of the downstairs rooms (the extension behind the garage) is still totally soundproofed...basically means I'll have my own drum studio. The house needs a LOT of work, like, totally, all of it. The current owner is a disabled widow who hasn't cleaned it for years. But with a bit of elbow grease (not a strong point of mine) it could be the perfect family home. A is a bit broodier than I'd like, but I guess that's adulting for you.
Evening gig with FH was amazing. We've worked out the issues, which I raised after Saturday's 'musically fine but performance quite poor' debut of the new line-up and we totally nailed. We're back, we're buzzing, it's a lovely thing.
Wednesday, 25 September 2019
Wednesday 25th September 2019
Now that my schedule is in place, I can actually have a lie-in on a Wednesday. I don't start at the school until 11, it's a little out of town but I don't have to leave the house until a comfortable 10am. But still, I woke up at 8am, tried to book a tour and then had a revelationary thought: why? Why am I doing this? I've been touring plays for the last 9 years and have got nowhere. Is a commissioner going to spot me in Wales, or Bournemouth? No. Of course not.
I've realised it's because I really, really like staying in hotels. Maybe I should just go on holiday more.
I can't risk the HG 'brand' - the reviews are great as they stand, but the more I tour it, the more chances there are for people to dislike it/not get it. At the moment it's a 'hit' show, but all we need is another tough night in Yorkshire, or North Shields (I still have nightmares about that night, it was only in February this year) and it could ruin my positive Google search results.
I've decided to put the grand I put aside for 'tour loss' into the West End run, which doesn't quite cover it, but nearly does. I'll take on more students, it's fine.
The school was great today, then I took mum shopping, and then the college was really brilliant. For my private lesson there, the kid was intense - I like teaching him, we were working on putting sixteenths on the hi-hat for 'Happy' and he wasn't getting it, but kept saying, "again, again", repeating the song until he got it right. He nearly got it right, he will do next week, he's so fired up for this. Drum Club afterwards was a joy, only 4 turned up but we played games, everyone bought into my 'philosophy' and I felt like everything I was trying, as a teacher, was totally working. I love it, really.
Two private lessons followed, both strong (I guess it's all about the students sometimes, they were both great) and then long WAS rehearsal which felt really nice. Andrea is a genius and Steve the new bassist (my regular gig chum) is SUCH a nice man to be in a rhythm section with.
Fuck all writing time this week, though.
I've realised it's because I really, really like staying in hotels. Maybe I should just go on holiday more.
I can't risk the HG 'brand' - the reviews are great as they stand, but the more I tour it, the more chances there are for people to dislike it/not get it. At the moment it's a 'hit' show, but all we need is another tough night in Yorkshire, or North Shields (I still have nightmares about that night, it was only in February this year) and it could ruin my positive Google search results.
I've decided to put the grand I put aside for 'tour loss' into the West End run, which doesn't quite cover it, but nearly does. I'll take on more students, it's fine.
The school was great today, then I took mum shopping, and then the college was really brilliant. For my private lesson there, the kid was intense - I like teaching him, we were working on putting sixteenths on the hi-hat for 'Happy' and he wasn't getting it, but kept saying, "again, again", repeating the song until he got it right. He nearly got it right, he will do next week, he's so fired up for this. Drum Club afterwards was a joy, only 4 turned up but we played games, everyone bought into my 'philosophy' and I felt like everything I was trying, as a teacher, was totally working. I love it, really.
Two private lessons followed, both strong (I guess it's all about the students sometimes, they were both great) and then long WAS rehearsal which felt really nice. Andrea is a genius and Steve the new bassist (my regular gig chum) is SUCH a nice man to be in a rhythm section with.
Fuck all writing time this week, though.
Tuesday 24th September 2019
That was better today. I like being a teacher again. At my latest school, which is a brilliant place - the kids, the staff, the building - it's buzzing, and everyone is so friendly. A man just needs to feel liked, sometimes, doesn't he?
Three private lessons followed (first one - this one has been a struggle for a while as the kid is suddenly a stroppy teenager but it was better today, second one - great fun, it's all about the song choices and Mr Blue Sky is ticking all the boxes, third one - awesome) and then off to catch up with Rohan and Chris for dinner and beer, which was lovely. Good friends, good company.
Three private lessons followed (first one - this one has been a struggle for a while as the kid is suddenly a stroppy teenager but it was better today, second one - great fun, it's all about the song choices and Mr Blue Sky is ticking all the boxes, third one - awesome) and then off to catch up with Rohan and Chris for dinner and beer, which was lovely. Good friends, good company.
Monday 23rd September 2019
A bit like Poch at Spurs, I feel like I'm stagnating a little bit. Five lessons today, but mostly with students I've had for a while and, if it wasn't for the incentive of the gig, I'm worried I'm losing their interest a little. That was certainly the case for lessons 1, 2 and 4. Lesson 3 was typically chaotic, but I like it that way (today he played drums with two toy guns instead of sticks) and lesson 5 was great because I've found a way of working with this student and his parents are a total joy.
Or maybe I'm just overthinking it too much. Maybe I'm working too hard? Don't be silly, this is a job, I technically work less than people in 'real' professions.
Evening met up with Greg to discuss the 12 gigs of Christmas idea (and confirm it) and his Folk Cabaret night, which we'll be launching next year.
Or maybe I'm just overthinking it too much. Maybe I'm working too hard? Don't be silly, this is a job, I technically work less than people in 'real' professions.
Evening met up with Greg to discuss the 12 gigs of Christmas idea (and confirm it) and his Folk Cabaret night, which we'll be launching next year.
Sunday 22nd September 2019
My lesson this morning was cancelled as the kid was at a 'sleepover' in London. I haven't seen this student for a while but I was grateful for the lie-in. Met up with some of A's mates for brunch, and then we spent 3 hours arguing over the font for our wedding invites. We should have sent them out by now. I think. I'm not sure. I've never been married before. What's the going rate, time-wise?
Spent a couple of hours tidying up the sitcom script ahead of our first read-throughs at the start of next month (6 episodes, all nice and tight) and had a lovely dinner with A. I have the Belle and Sebastian new album on vinyl, and we put on 'I'll Be Your Pilot' whilst eating - that song is going to be our first dance and every time I hear it I realise that things have worked out bloody brilliantly. I also know that every time we argue, which is quite often but always about trivial things (okay - it's literally ALWAYS about me not doing my share of the housework), I can put that song on and everything will be just fine.
Went for a meeting with Jacqui and Helen about a Christmas single, which will happen, the launch is booked for December 8th. A nice little sideline project that may take off.
Spent a couple of hours tidying up the sitcom script ahead of our first read-throughs at the start of next month (6 episodes, all nice and tight) and had a lovely dinner with A. I have the Belle and Sebastian new album on vinyl, and we put on 'I'll Be Your Pilot' whilst eating - that song is going to be our first dance and every time I hear it I realise that things have worked out bloody brilliantly. I also know that every time we argue, which is quite often but always about trivial things (okay - it's literally ALWAYS about me not doing my share of the housework), I can put that song on and everything will be just fine.
Went for a meeting with Jacqui and Helen about a Christmas single, which will happen, the launch is booked for December 8th. A nice little sideline project that may take off.
Sunday, 22 September 2019
Saturday 21st September 2019
Up so early for my morning student...no lesson should start at 9.30am on a Saturday, but he's a good kid and he's fun to teach.
As was the student afterwards, before I then went home and caught up on sleep in the afternoon.
Evening gig with FH, our first with the 'new' line-up, so we purposely chose a little pub in the absolute arse-end of nowhere (Norfolk) to try out stuff without pressure. P, our newest member, is utterly amazing (and she's so friendly, too - it's like she's been in the band for years) and musically we're fine...the set-list felt a bit misplaced, with too many ballads and some awkward moments in between songs. I do miss the FH energy from last year, but we'll get there again. The new songs are outstanding.
Typical long life chat with V afterwards outside her pad, but still home by midnight which is a rarity.
As was the student afterwards, before I then went home and caught up on sleep in the afternoon.
Evening gig with FH, our first with the 'new' line-up, so we purposely chose a little pub in the absolute arse-end of nowhere (Norfolk) to try out stuff without pressure. P, our newest member, is utterly amazing (and she's so friendly, too - it's like she's been in the band for years) and musically we're fine...the set-list felt a bit misplaced, with too many ballads and some awkward moments in between songs. I do miss the FH energy from last year, but we'll get there again. The new songs are outstanding.
Typical long life chat with V afterwards outside her pad, but still home by midnight which is a rarity.
Friday 20th September 2019
Morning at one of my schools, where I currently only have 4 students (so it's just over an hours' work...we'll have to discuss whether this is worth keeping soon). Paid in a bunch of wages and then off to my regular school for a fun 2 hours, before 2 private lessons (first one: lovely, if with challenging song choices, second one: really fun, first private lesson for a student I'd previously had at a school (but he's now moved on to a secondary school) and it was superb) before over to Ely for final rehearsals ahead of new line-up gig with FH.
Sounding great, as much as I get annoyed that everyone tells me off, constantly, for being too loud. It's all fine, though. It was one of those 'leaving the house at 8am, home by midnight' kinda days - but that was mostly because, as always, V and I spent half an hour chatting in the car, outside her flat at the end. This happens every time I give her a lift and I wouldn't change anything because it's not just about being in a band in a noisy rehearsal room, we're really close friends catching up. Knackered, though.
Sounding great, as much as I get annoyed that everyone tells me off, constantly, for being too loud. It's all fine, though. It was one of those 'leaving the house at 8am, home by midnight' kinda days - but that was mostly because, as always, V and I spent half an hour chatting in the car, outside her flat at the end. This happens every time I give her a lift and I wouldn't change anything because it's not just about being in a band in a noisy rehearsal room, we're really close friends catching up. Knackered, though.
Thursday 19th September 2019
I feel like, this week in particular, I'm getting the work/life balance right. Not always the way.
Fine morning/early afternoon at the 'other' school where the kids were less aggressive this week, and then three private lessons with three of my most enthusiastic students who always make me smile. We have a students gig coming up soon and it's going to be glorious.
Home by 8.30pm, meaning I get to eat with A again (dinner together means a lot to her) and finished episode six of the sitcom I'm working on for Alan H.
Fine morning/early afternoon at the 'other' school where the kids were less aggressive this week, and then three private lessons with three of my most enthusiastic students who always make me smile. We have a students gig coming up soon and it's going to be glorious.
Home by 8.30pm, meaning I get to eat with A again (dinner together means a lot to her) and finished episode six of the sitcom I'm working on for Alan H.
Wednesday 18th September 2019
Morning at my regular school was more than fine, the kids are always up for it there and they're progressing nicely.
Took Mum shopping, and then 2 hours at the college - the first for a private lesson, and then Drum Club, which was nothing short of chaos as we had 22 eager students trying to play the 5 available drums we had. I totally lost the room but they seemed happy anyway. 2 private lessons followed, both really good fun (the second one in particular was great because the kid has previously been reluctant but he's totally into it now) and then choir band rehearsal was cancelled so I was home by 9pm to crack on with this sitcom script.
I need to work out what I'm doing with the West End run.
Took Mum shopping, and then 2 hours at the college - the first for a private lesson, and then Drum Club, which was nothing short of chaos as we had 22 eager students trying to play the 5 available drums we had. I totally lost the room but they seemed happy anyway. 2 private lessons followed, both really good fun (the second one in particular was great because the kid has previously been reluctant but he's totally into it now) and then choir band rehearsal was cancelled so I was home by 9pm to crack on with this sitcom script.
I need to work out what I'm doing with the West End run.
Tuesday 17th September 2019
Lovely morning at the 'new' school, everyone totally gets my style of teaching, especially the receptionist who also has a double lesson at the end after the kids.
Fourth private lessons followed (first one: kid clearly getting bored of this...that's the second one this week and I need to refresh things a bit as much as his parents are super keen for us to continue, second one: excellent, third one: good fun, fourth one: my favourite student, always a joy).
Home to actually see A, had a lovely dinner and then I wrote till 1am.
Fourth private lessons followed (first one: kid clearly getting bored of this...that's the second one this week and I need to refresh things a bit as much as his parents are super keen for us to continue, second one: excellent, third one: good fun, fourth one: my favourite student, always a joy).
Home to actually see A, had a lovely dinner and then I wrote till 1am.
Monday 16th September 2019
Ridiculous day, but all good stuff. Early morning lessons with one of my regulars who I'm struggling to fit in (but somehow we manage to sort something every week), and then off to a local radio station to be a guest/chat about the fringe/plug stuff.
5 private lessons, all an hour, all in different locations (first one: brilliant, second one: kid is clearly getting bored of this and the mum has noticed, third one: rowdy fun, fourth one: excellent, fifth one: good fun) and then over to Ely for a late-night FH rehearsal, my first with our new violinist, who is wonderful, as much as I'm too tired to appreciate it.
Have an offer for the West End run for HG, just need to work out my finances. It can be done, just.
5 private lessons, all an hour, all in different locations (first one: brilliant, second one: kid is clearly getting bored of this and the mum has noticed, third one: rowdy fun, fourth one: excellent, fifth one: good fun) and then over to Ely for a late-night FH rehearsal, my first with our new violinist, who is wonderful, as much as I'm too tired to appreciate it.
Have an offer for the West End run for HG, just need to work out my finances. It can be done, just.
Sunday, 15 September 2019
Sunday 15th September 2019
Another early start (on A SUNDAY), this time to be picked up by Steve the bassist as we headed down to Telford for a festival gig with Greg and band. A corporate festival, so better money than normal, but as always for these events: total background stuff. Mostly ignored, but played well, both times, tried out lots of new stuff. The new stuff worked and onstage Greg, Saul, Gemma, Steve and I were having a great time.
I've never liked doing festivals like these, FH stopped doing them last year, because even though the money is good it feels pointless giving it your all when the audience aren't there for you; they're there for the bar, to shoot things in a field and to go to the dog contest thing.
Got picked up at 8.30am, dropped off at 9pm. Long day, mostly on the road, but in good company - I like this band a lot, I feel like I'm playing well with them.
Lovely dinner with A when I got back, I'm marrying a totally awesome cook who looks after me very well.
I've never liked doing festivals like these, FH stopped doing them last year, because even though the money is good it feels pointless giving it your all when the audience aren't there for you; they're there for the bar, to shoot things in a field and to go to the dog contest thing.
Got picked up at 8.30am, dropped off at 9pm. Long day, mostly on the road, but in good company - I like this band a lot, I feel like I'm playing well with them.
Lovely dinner with A when I got back, I'm marrying a totally awesome cook who looks after me very well.
Saturday 14th September 2019
Double booked for a gig today; nobody told me the FH gig was an early start, meaning I had to let Greg down for his afternoon festival set. That's the second time I've let him down this summer.
Been offered a West End run for HG. At a price. A price I can just about afford...I need time to think about all of this.
Up early for three private lessons in a row, even on a Saturday, all of them were great fun.
The over to Olney for a weird FH gig, in which it felt like our stage time was cut short. Performance felt flat, but the new songs work. Better gigs, please.
Been offered a West End run for HG. At a price. A price I can just about afford...I need time to think about all of this.
Up early for three private lessons in a row, even on a Saturday, all of them were great fun.
The over to Olney for a weird FH gig, in which it felt like our stage time was cut short. Performance felt flat, but the new songs work. Better gigs, please.
Friday 13th September 2019
Really need more writing time; for the show with Emma, for the Christmas project with Jacqui/Helen.
Over to one of my other schools in the morning for an hour or so, nipped into town to pay in some cash and then two hours at my regular school. All fine. Two private lessons later (first one: slow, second one: really awesome) and managed to get out of FH acoustic rehearsal (it's all chords and stuff) and spend the night actually seeing A. Watched an awesome film (Fisherman's Friends) and caught up properly after a busy week.
And then did some writing.
Over to one of my other schools in the morning for an hour or so, nipped into town to pay in some cash and then two hours at my regular school. All fine. Two private lessons later (first one: slow, second one: really awesome) and managed to get out of FH acoustic rehearsal (it's all chords and stuff) and spend the night actually seeing A. Watched an awesome film (Fisherman's Friends) and caught up properly after a busy week.
And then did some writing.
Thursday 12th September 2019
My god the 'other' school is rough. The kids are rude and abusive. The staff are lovely, but I've forgotten how aggressive the kids are there. 10 of them, in a row. Jesus.
Went home and had a nap.
Two private lessons after (both brilliant) and then WAS auditions for a new bassist and a new guitarist ahead of the winter gigs. Steve the bassist, who deps in Greg's band, was my recommendation and instantly clicked with Andrea, he was offered it (and accepted) within the hour. The guitarist who turned up to audition was embarrassingly bad.
Went home and had a nap.
Two private lessons after (both brilliant) and then WAS auditions for a new bassist and a new guitarist ahead of the winter gigs. Steve the bassist, who deps in Greg's band, was my recommendation and instantly clicked with Andrea, he was offered it (and accepted) within the hour. The guitarist who turned up to audition was embarrassingly bad.
Wednesday 11th September 2019
I need more writing time. I have more ideas than time at the moment.
Back at the normal school in the morning, a few scheduling issues (ie; some drum lessons clash with maths, but all sorted now) and then took mum shopping.
Over to the college for Fresher's Day and great to catch up with everyone; I really like the college, it's another place where I feel at 'home' - everyone down to the caretaker to the cleaner is friendly and I chat to them a lot. My private lesson was great afterwards there with one of my returning students.
Nipped over the road for another lesson (good fun) and mad dash to Baldock for the FH gig. First half felt flat, second half was great.
Back at the normal school in the morning, a few scheduling issues (ie; some drum lessons clash with maths, but all sorted now) and then took mum shopping.
Over to the college for Fresher's Day and great to catch up with everyone; I really like the college, it's another place where I feel at 'home' - everyone down to the caretaker to the cleaner is friendly and I chat to them a lot. My private lesson was great afterwards there with one of my returning students.
Nipped over the road for another lesson (good fun) and mad dash to Baldock for the FH gig. First half felt flat, second half was great.
Tuesday 10th September 2019
I'm really starting to like my 'new' school (the one I took on at the end of last term, so not my newest but they haven't started yet...I know, it's confusing). First day back after the summer and I really feel like I belong there; the headmaster helps me carry in my drums, the business director has more schools for me if I want them (it may take a bit of substantial schedule jigging but we'll see) and the kids are really on it. This will be great.
Three private lessons followed (first one: kid is struggling, he's lost interest but parents still keen, second one: awesome, third one: really fun) and then over to A's dad's 80th birthday, which was a right posh affair and I was very glad that I was wearing my new suit. We drank very well and enjoyed good food; a meal which costs in excess of £500. It's a whole different world.
Three private lessons followed (first one: kid is struggling, he's lost interest but parents still keen, second one: awesome, third one: really fun) and then over to A's dad's 80th birthday, which was a right posh affair and I was very glad that I was wearing my new suit. We drank very well and enjoyed good food; a meal which costs in excess of £500. It's a whole different world.
Monday 9th September 2019
The problem with setting myself such tough writing targets is that I feel the quality goes down. I keep writing, and re-writing this show I'm working on for Emma but I feel like I've lost the point I was trying to make with it now.
That was a majority of my morning and early afternoon, anyway.
Just the three private lessons as one was off sick (first one: awesome, second one: kid was so distracted but I get on well with the parents, third one: really strong, and really nice to then spend 20 minutes catching up with Georgina, the pupil's mum, afterwards). Then acoustic FH rehearsal, which I wasn't really needed for but nice to catch up as it's the first time I've seen the guys since late July.
That was a majority of my morning and early afternoon, anyway.
Just the three private lessons as one was off sick (first one: awesome, second one: kid was so distracted but I get on well with the parents, third one: really strong, and really nice to then spend 20 minutes catching up with Georgina, the pupil's mum, afterwards). Then acoustic FH rehearsal, which I wasn't really needed for but nice to catch up as it's the first time I've seen the guys since late July.
Monday, 9 September 2019
Sunday 8th September 2019
Up at 5.30am ('helped' by the cat jumping on my face) and on the road by 6.30am. In Swanage (which, it turns out, is MILES AWAY) to play a gig with Greg and the band. I long way to go for a relatively poorly paid gig, but I'm really enjoying being in a band with him, Gemma and Saul - such nice people, it's just a joy to hang out with them (and Greg's wife, Louise). And we're a good band, too, there's a lot of punch in the songs and you can just see them winning over people, even in the sleepiest of folk festivals on a Sunday at midday.
Four and a half hour drive back, which means I pretty much spent the whole day on the road but it's fine, alongside all of the 'sensible' things I do (teaching), it's nice to remind myself that this is what I really do. I'm a travelling musician.
Got a takeaway with A and then carried on writing till the early hours. I know the plan (according to Jonny the filmmaker) is that I need to just slow down and focus purely on Harvey, but there's no reason why I can't write for other people, is there?
Four and a half hour drive back, which means I pretty much spent the whole day on the road but it's fine, alongside all of the 'sensible' things I do (teaching), it's nice to remind myself that this is what I really do. I'm a travelling musician.
Got a takeaway with A and then carried on writing till the early hours. I know the plan (according to Jonny the filmmaker) is that I need to just slow down and focus purely on Harvey, but there's no reason why I can't write for other people, is there?
Saturday 7th September 2019
As I was supposed to be in Devon for family duties today, but that was obviously cancelled, I found myself with an unexpected day off. Felt great to sleep in, slob out with A (who herself is massively busy with school stuff) and argue about the amount of drum kits I have in the house. We've moved things about a bit now and it's all groovy.
Did a LOT of writing, then went to Josie's housewarming, which was good fun - a chance to jam with good people and moan about how busy we all are and why we don't this often enough.
Did a LOT of writing, then went to Josie's housewarming, which was good fun - a chance to jam with good people and moan about how busy we all are and why we don't this often enough.
Saturday, 7 September 2019
Friday 6th September 2019
As we didn't head to either Devon or Great Yarmouth today, Mum seemed down so I took her shopping, again, instead as I just feel that she's on the edge. Took her to Cambridge and she had a lovely time. I basically spent my only day off this side of Christmas sat on the A14 but it's fine, it was nice to see her happy.
Got back, wrote for 2 hours and then off to the pub to meet up with A and her friends. Lovely evening.
Got back, wrote for 2 hours and then off to the pub to meet up with A and her friends. Lovely evening.
Thursday 5th September 2019
Took Mum shopping, she's fine, if a bit down about the fact that we can't head to Devon tomorrow because the houses she wanted to look at are now sold. Discussed the idea of looking at houses in Great Yarmouth instead but the crime rate is so high so not doing that either.
Three private lessons in a row (first one - great, second one - dragged a little but fine, third one - great) and then I actually got to see A, which is a rarity these days, but needed especially as we're getting married and all that.
Was up till 1am writing.
Three private lessons in a row (first one - great, second one - dragged a little but fine, third one - great) and then I actually got to see A, which is a rarity these days, but needed especially as we're getting married and all that.
Was up till 1am writing.
Wednesday 4th September 2019
Gradually getting back into teaching mode.
Met up with my new school for a meeting, ahead of starting there in two weeks' time (there's a lot of paperwork to sort which takes time, but luckily we only have to do it once and I hope to be there for years). Nice people, outstanding head of music, it'll be fine.
Two private lessons (both good fun with enthusiastic students) and then a cracking meeting with Jacqui about a Christmas album project. Jacqui's one of those people I keep meaning to work with, we're on the same page, see each other about, but remarkably haven't before. She messaged me during the fringe about collaborations and it was great to meet up and shout ideas at her for about an hour in a pub. We've settled on two of them.
Met up with my new school for a meeting, ahead of starting there in two weeks' time (there's a lot of paperwork to sort which takes time, but luckily we only have to do it once and I hope to be there for years). Nice people, outstanding head of music, it'll be fine.
Two private lessons (both good fun with enthusiastic students) and then a cracking meeting with Jacqui about a Christmas album project. Jacqui's one of those people I keep meaning to work with, we're on the same page, see each other about, but remarkably haven't before. She messaged me during the fringe about collaborations and it was great to meet up and shout ideas at her for about an hour in a pub. We've settled on two of them.
Tuesday 3rd September 2019
I'm really excited about the film, but I think I'm just more excited about the fact that somebody has so much faith in my work.
Morning spent writing and catching up with emails, invoice parents etc, ahead of being back at the schools next week, and then a quick lesson with one of my regulars. The new kit is working well.
Then dashed back, dropped off car and off to London for the latest BBC recording of my sitcom, which went on for ages with lots of retakes but that probably suggests they know what they're doing. It's sounding lovely, very lovely.
Nice few beers at the BBC bar with the case, legged it to the train and somehow back home and in bed by 12.30am.
Morning spent writing and catching up with emails, invoice parents etc, ahead of being back at the schools next week, and then a quick lesson with one of my regulars. The new kit is working well.
Then dashed back, dropped off car and off to London for the latest BBC recording of my sitcom, which went on for ages with lots of retakes but that probably suggests they know what they're doing. It's sounding lovely, very lovely.
Nice few beers at the BBC bar with the case, legged it to the train and somehow back home and in bed by 12.30am.
Tuesday, 3 September 2019
Monday 2nd September 2019
Easing my way back into the teaching/real life stuff; the students go back to school later this week and I'm back in next week. I reckon things will get quite intense, then, as I've taken on more than ever with the private students as well as an extra school. And so much drumming stuff.
This week, though, it's just the private students.
The day started brilliantly with a cracking meeting with Jonnie about the HG feature film. He saw a Cambridge preview, loved it and turned to his wife and said, "this is my first feature" - he's been waiting for a while for a project like this to come along and spent most of the meeting convincing me that it's a good idea. I didn't need much convincing. Budget of £25k (which for a feature is nothing, but enough for it to work), a team of three writers (Jonnie, his brother and me) staying as faithful to the original theatre script, Netflix/Amazon Prime release pretty much already in the bag, DVD/Blu-Ray release, cinema premiere. 2-week shoot in May 2020, with me still playing Harvey. Pretty exciting stuff, yeah?
Five private lessons followed (first one: lovely, second one: messy in structure but nice to see them again, third one: wasn't in, they've since apologised and will pay either way, fourth one: really productive, just excellent, fifth one: parents saw the play and spent the whole lesson telling me how much they enjoyed it, even though I was just trying to teach their son).
This week, though, it's just the private students.
The day started brilliantly with a cracking meeting with Jonnie about the HG feature film. He saw a Cambridge preview, loved it and turned to his wife and said, "this is my first feature" - he's been waiting for a while for a project like this to come along and spent most of the meeting convincing me that it's a good idea. I didn't need much convincing. Budget of £25k (which for a feature is nothing, but enough for it to work), a team of three writers (Jonnie, his brother and me) staying as faithful to the original theatre script, Netflix/Amazon Prime release pretty much already in the bag, DVD/Blu-Ray release, cinema premiere. 2-week shoot in May 2020, with me still playing Harvey. Pretty exciting stuff, yeah?
Five private lessons followed (first one: lovely, second one: messy in structure but nice to see them again, third one: wasn't in, they've since apologised and will pay either way, fourth one: really productive, just excellent, fifth one: parents saw the play and spent the whole lesson telling me how much they enjoyed it, even though I was just trying to teach their son).
Sunday, 1 September 2019
Sunday 1st September 2019
A's birthday and I totally got it right. Breakfast in bed (I burnt the bacon, but when hidden in a croissant it's fine), even went to church with her and didn't understand anything that's going on but it felt like the right thing to do, before popping in briefly to see her parents and then a spot of lunch at Gog Magog farm, which is about 5 minutes down the road from us. When we actually get to see each other, we really do have a nice time.
I then needed to do a bit of school admin for a bit, so she read for a couple of hours, and then one of her presents I got her was a massage set, complete with book of instructions (my hands are massive, which helps, and it came with stones that you heat so boiled them...maybe putting on the dolphin/whale music on Spotify was a step too far, though), so I gave it all a go and we enjoyed ourselves for a couple of hours.
Very posh dinner in town (£92, who spends £92 on a couple of steaks?! This mug, glad to be back to teaching tomorrow) but she's happy so I've done well.
Agreed to the new school, meaning I don't have any free time ever from mid-September onwards, so I need to make next week count.
Confirmed the first tour date.
Alan M is getting stroppy about our radio podcast series and he has every reason to. Not only is it taking fucking ages to get going, but Alan H has cast it, whilst we really should have done auditions. I get that everyone he's cast, he likes, and he's amazing so we trust his judgement but still...maybe there's a process here we're missing.
I had a few beers and watched a Dad's Army documentary, which was excellent, and realised what they did was form a team, a team who drank together, and loved working with each other, it was a 'company'. That's what we need to do. It can't just be actors reading a script.
I then needed to do a bit of school admin for a bit, so she read for a couple of hours, and then one of her presents I got her was a massage set, complete with book of instructions (my hands are massive, which helps, and it came with stones that you heat so boiled them...maybe putting on the dolphin/whale music on Spotify was a step too far, though), so I gave it all a go and we enjoyed ourselves for a couple of hours.
Very posh dinner in town (£92, who spends £92 on a couple of steaks?! This mug, glad to be back to teaching tomorrow) but she's happy so I've done well.
Agreed to the new school, meaning I don't have any free time ever from mid-September onwards, so I need to make next week count.
Confirmed the first tour date.
Alan M is getting stroppy about our radio podcast series and he has every reason to. Not only is it taking fucking ages to get going, but Alan H has cast it, whilst we really should have done auditions. I get that everyone he's cast, he likes, and he's amazing so we trust his judgement but still...maybe there's a process here we're missing.
I had a few beers and watched a Dad's Army documentary, which was excellent, and realised what they did was form a team, a team who drank together, and loved working with each other, it was a 'company'. That's what we need to do. It can't just be actors reading a script.
Subscribe to:
Comments (Atom)