Devon was lovely, on many levels. But equally: nice to be home. Slept in, did my washing and then A and myself went to lunch with some of her friends over in Rugby.
Had a nice roast, got home, caught up on emails and then over to Michelle's to run the show again. It really, really worked tonight - I've changed some of the pacing a little and it has more impact. This could be a really, really special play.
Sunday, 30 June 2019
Saturday 29th June 2019
So hungover. Had to be out of my hotel by 11am and that felt like a struggle. Said my goodbyes to Josie (it's flattering that she only came up for one night to catch up with her old buddy) (by old I mean we met last year) and sat in the hotel car park feeling sorry for myself, before getting a fry-up.
Met up with Chris and caught an amazing, amazing play, and then a terrible poetry one, and then a mediocre stand-up gig.
Sat in my car and did some writing.
Final Devon performance...3 people in, true fringe-fashion. But the loveliest three ever, honestly had a lovely show, it wasn't at all awkward and I gave them my EVERYTHING on stage, and it showed.
Offstage by 11pm, said my thank yous and goodbyes - it's such a lovely little festival. Simple five-hour drive home, fuelled by good tunes and good comedy. Not at all tired, because I'm enjoying the randomness of life.
Met up with Chris and caught an amazing, amazing play, and then a terrible poetry one, and then a mediocre stand-up gig.
Sat in my car and did some writing.
Final Devon performance...3 people in, true fringe-fashion. But the loveliest three ever, honestly had a lovely show, it wasn't at all awkward and I gave them my EVERYTHING on stage, and it showed.
Offstage by 11pm, said my thank yous and goodbyes - it's such a lovely little festival. Simple five-hour drive home, fuelled by good tunes and good comedy. Not at all tired, because I'm enjoying the randomness of life.
Friday 28th June 2019
Up early in Devon to be a guest on a political panel show, hosted by my good mate, Chris. I was clearly out of my depth at first as I'm not particularly political, but really stormed it in the second half when we got onto Trump and Brexit, I got pretty ranty and the audience enjoyed it.
Grabbed some lunch and then spent three hours in my hotel room writing my 'other' Edinburgh show, which feels like it could be working.
My mate Josie messaged to say she was heading down to Devon to surprise me and catch the show as she's a bit addicted to it and the message that it expresses - she's now seen it four times!
The show itself was shit tonight, small audience, all too humid, it dragged. Hated it. I love this show, but it's not always going to work. Had beers with Dave, Chris, Simon and Josie, and as the others went off to guest in a cabaret (I turned it down), Josie and I got drunk on the beach till 4am, putting the world and it's many complications to rights.
Grabbed some lunch and then spent three hours in my hotel room writing my 'other' Edinburgh show, which feels like it could be working.
My mate Josie messaged to say she was heading down to Devon to surprise me and catch the show as she's a bit addicted to it and the message that it expresses - she's now seen it four times!
The show itself was shit tonight, small audience, all too humid, it dragged. Hated it. I love this show, but it's not always going to work. Had beers with Dave, Chris, Simon and Josie, and as the others went off to guest in a cabaret (I turned it down), Josie and I got drunk on the beach till 4am, putting the world and it's many complications to rights.
Thursday 27th June 2019
Up early as the 'other' school let me start early today - taught for two and a bit hours and then over to Mum's house to drop off the kit as I didn't really want to bring my kit all the way to Devon and she was close to the school.
7 hour drive to Devon, with various road closures and stops to check my water levels. Thoroughly exhausting, but the car did me proud.
Checked into my fancy hotel for the evening and then walked over to my venue for the first of three shows here. Audience of 19 (in a 30 capacity tent), everyone onside, awesome show. This really works.
Had an overpriced sandwich in my hotel (NINE QUID!) and fell asleep.
7 hour drive to Devon, with various road closures and stops to check my water levels. Thoroughly exhausting, but the car did me proud.
Checked into my fancy hotel for the evening and then walked over to my venue for the first of three shows here. Audience of 19 (in a 30 capacity tent), everyone onside, awesome show. This really works.
Had an overpriced sandwich in my hotel (NINE QUID!) and fell asleep.
Wednesday 26th June 2019
Morning at the regular school, bit frustrated that there was a school trip and I wasn't told about it. In short, only had to teach three of my seven students.
Took Mum shopping, made notes for the new Edinburgh show that I should have written by now.
Two private lessons (first one: new student filling in the college gap until September, he's already amazing so I can push him quite far, second one: awesome, this student always is).
Then over to town to open a comedy show there - did 30 minutes of mostly new material, the first time in ages I've done such a long set of new stuff. The audience were great, a lot of what I did really worked apart from the punchline. I was very manic tonight, very pacy, some looked scared but it was quite a decent night.
My mate Josie turned up to watch so I rudely skipped the second half of the gig and grabbed a beer with her instead.
Took Mum shopping, made notes for the new Edinburgh show that I should have written by now.
Two private lessons (first one: new student filling in the college gap until September, he's already amazing so I can push him quite far, second one: awesome, this student always is).
Then over to town to open a comedy show there - did 30 minutes of mostly new material, the first time in ages I've done such a long set of new stuff. The audience were great, a lot of what I did really worked apart from the punchline. I was very manic tonight, very pacy, some looked scared but it was quite a decent night.
My mate Josie turned up to watch so I rudely skipped the second half of the gig and grabbed a beer with her instead.
Tuesday 25th June 2019
Lovely time at my 'new' school, after what I thought was quite a shaky start last week. The kids seem to have settled into my way of working and the teachers are all getting involved - I feel like I could be a bit of a hit there.
Three private lessons followed (first one - terrible, the kid just wasn't in the mood, second one - fine, third one - awesome).
Then over to long FH rehearsals, but everyone seems in good spirits.
Could really do with running my lines ahead of the Devon shows, but getting home after midnight each night isn't helping.
Three private lessons followed (first one - terrible, the kid just wasn't in the mood, second one - fine, third one - awesome).
Then over to long FH rehearsals, but everyone seems in good spirits.
Could really do with running my lines ahead of the Devon shows, but getting home after midnight each night isn't helping.
Monday 24th June 2019
What with a very long trip to Devon later in the week, I spent my only free morning at the garage getting the car checked over. Glad I did on two levels: 1) my trusty mechanic found quite a big problem with it and 2) it may have been a big problem but it was cheap and easy to fix.
Basically a coolant leak...with the leak continuing, my car would have overheated and there's no way I could have got to Devon. Good old Gordon patched it all up for me, for a very reasonable £30.
That all took a while, and then dashed about teaching five lessons in a row (first one: student simply needed to run her set ahead of a gig, second one: student often distracted but in good spirits, third one: awesome, fourth one: awesome, fifth one: awesome).
Need to run my lines ahead of the Devon shows.
Sunday, 23 June 2019
Sunday 23rd June 2019
Morning lesson cancelled as parents forgot child was at a sleepover. They called me as I was DRIVING TO THE LESSON. I've got a waiting list, not being blunt, but they can probably go.
Still, it gave me a chance to spend the morning filling out various risk assessments for Edinburgh, and panic about the week ahead. It looks ridiculous.
5 hour session with Greg and the band. Didn't feel as enjoyable as normal; nobody really felt the new stuff, bit of tension, didn't play particularly well. Let's blame it on the heat.
Lovely email from my new publisher. All is well there.
Got back, did more fringe admin, and more panicking about how double booked I am for the week ahead.
Still, it gave me a chance to spend the morning filling out various risk assessments for Edinburgh, and panic about the week ahead. It looks ridiculous.
5 hour session with Greg and the band. Didn't feel as enjoyable as normal; nobody really felt the new stuff, bit of tension, didn't play particularly well. Let's blame it on the heat.
Lovely email from my new publisher. All is well there.
Got back, did more fringe admin, and more panicking about how double booked I am for the week ahead.
Saturday 22nd June 2019
Double private lesson in the morning was awesome, got back and did some writing. I'm in a good place at the moment, the balance is good.
I mean, I need to write my other Edinburgh Fringe show, but apart from that, the balance is right.
Rest of the day spent at a wedding, one of A's mates getting married. Big fancy Cambridge uni bash, great food, strong beer, great conversation and I danced more than I have done in years. By this I mean: I was forced to dance. But I still had a fun time.
I mean, I need to write my other Edinburgh Fringe show, but apart from that, the balance is right.
Rest of the day spent at a wedding, one of A's mates getting married. Big fancy Cambridge uni bash, great food, strong beer, great conversation and I danced more than I have done in years. By this I mean: I was forced to dance. But I still had a fun time.
Friday 21st June 2019
Morning at the village school flew by, all good drummers now, feels like job done. Cashed in some wages, tried and failed to buy fancy shoes for tomorrow, went to regular school and we all got through it despite the heat.
Private lesson dragged a bit, but then found fancy shoes for tomorrow in Tesco, of all places.
Evening actually in! Great to see my fiancee for a change. I caught up on fringe emails, she caught up on work emails and we watched five hours of Father Ted. Bliss.
Private lesson dragged a bit, but then found fancy shoes for tomorrow in Tesco, of all places.
Evening actually in! Great to see my fiancee for a change. I caught up on fringe emails, she caught up on work emails and we watched five hours of Father Ted. Bliss.
Thursday 20th June 2019
In nice and early at the 'other' school, where I feel really accepted now. All is fine there.
The heat is dragging me down. Was up writing till late last night, a show that isn't even going to Edinburgh this year, but a show I'm enjoying writing. Nearly as much as I'm enjoying this maple whiskey. What a treat!
Three private lessons (first one: amazing, second one: fine, third one: amazing) and then back to writing again. So many ideas, not enough time. The usual.
The heat is dragging me down. Was up writing till late last night, a show that isn't even going to Edinburgh this year, but a show I'm enjoying writing. Nearly as much as I'm enjoying this maple whiskey. What a treat!
Three private lessons (first one: amazing, second one: fine, third one: amazing) and then back to writing again. So many ideas, not enough time. The usual.
Wednesday 19th June 2019
Morning at the school was fine, took Mum shopping and she seemed in a bad way again. This is happening more and more often these days.
My new publisher got back in touch and all is very positive there.
Private lesson was great, then back down the A14 to make it in time for the school concert. All of my students lost their composure onstage and sped up/drifted out of rhythm, seemingly making the last two terms of work seem pointless. It was just fear; they panicked, and sped up. I'm not disappointed, they're 9 years old. But still. Okay, slightly disappointed. How do you get them to be 'stage ready' - it's a tough ask, having never performed in front of anyone but me before, to suddenly going on stage to 200 people. I was pretty scared for them.
My new publisher got back in touch and all is very positive there.
Private lesson was great, then back down the A14 to make it in time for the school concert. All of my students lost their composure onstage and sped up/drifted out of rhythm, seemingly making the last two terms of work seem pointless. It was just fear; they panicked, and sped up. I'm not disappointed, they're 9 years old. But still. Okay, slightly disappointed. How do you get them to be 'stage ready' - it's a tough ask, having never performed in front of anyone but me before, to suddenly going on stage to 200 people. I was pretty scared for them.
Tuesday 18th June 2019
I think I'm probably drinking too much, I mean - we're not talking scary amounts here or anything worthy of concern, but there's so much booze left in the house after the party and we're just seeing it as a bit of a challenge. The maple whiskey in particular is a wonderful thing...
Anyway, caught up on admin in the morning and then first session of lessons at the new school in the afternoon. Slight shock to the system, I mean, they're a 'lively' bunch, to say the least, but I can see it being fine in the long run.
Three private lessons after; first one (amazing), second one (kid was stroppy but his mum was amazing), third one (tired) and then long FH rehearsal. We're starting to develop a new style, it's playing to the strengths of this line-up, it's soulful and it's wonderful. It'll all be okay, you know.
Friday, 21 June 2019
Monday 17th June 2019
This week looks quite nice, actually - it's all local. Next week I'm away again, this time running the show in Devon, but this is a good week to catch up on all things admin and tweaking the new scripts...meeting up with Alan H in a couple weeks' time to run everything and to see what has legs.
Spent more time than is acceptable waiting for my excessive Red Bull delivery. I'm not proud, but the cupboard is well stocked.
Four private lessons: first one (relaxed), second one (kid wasn't interested but parents still keen), third one (amazing), fourth one (fine).
Home, back to writing stuff...I've got a show that needs writing, but for some reason I naturally write anything but the thing I'm supposed to be working on.
Spent more time than is acceptable waiting for my excessive Red Bull delivery. I'm not proud, but the cupboard is well stocked.
Four private lessons: first one (relaxed), second one (kid wasn't interested but parents still keen), third one (amazing), fourth one (fine).
Home, back to writing stuff...I've got a show that needs writing, but for some reason I naturally write anything but the thing I'm supposed to be working on.
Sunday, 16 June 2019
Sunday 16th June 2019
Last night was such good fun. Everyone is lovely. I'm in such a good place at the moment. Who would have thought that leafy suburbia would be my thing? I've got the right girl, the right friends, the right projects.
So fucking hungover.
Just the one lesson today and thankfully it was teaching Rachel, who is so enthusiastic it just flew by.
Spent the rest of the day tidying up the inevitable mess from last night, before slowly working on my double-bookings for next week. There are many.
So fucking hungover.
Just the one lesson today and thankfully it was teaching Rachel, who is so enthusiastic it just flew by.
Spent the rest of the day tidying up the inevitable mess from last night, before slowly working on my double-bookings for next week. There are many.
Saturday 15th June 2019
Up early to teach lesson, only to hear that it's been cancelled at the student is ill. Could have had a lie-in!
Great to be back with the WAS choir, starting rehearsals ahead of some shows in November/December. It's been about a year and a half since I last drummed for them but it was just a wonderful thing. Our illustrious musical director stopped the first song and jumped off her piano to hug me, explaining to the singers that she's "missed this". Glorious to be back.
Then it was our big engagement party. A went a bit crazy with the set-up for this one, SO MUCH food, SO MUCH booze, banners, lights, the full works. Clearly getting engaged means a lot to her. We had just the best party ever, friends old and new travelled up - by old I mean school mates I haven't seen for years, by new I mean musicians from Greg's band that I don't know socially until now. A brilliant mix of people all mingling, the weather held out, everything worked out. It was meant to be. A nice range of people, too, starting out with mates and other mates with their kids, and then a new batch seemed to turn up later on. Evening ended with us survivors sat by the fire pit, A and myself getting snuggly, with two of her mates, plus my friends Matt C, Paul M, Amanda and Josie (who is genuinely becoming one of my best friends) drinking fancy whisky into the early hours. Wonderful.
Great to be back with the WAS choir, starting rehearsals ahead of some shows in November/December. It's been about a year and a half since I last drummed for them but it was just a wonderful thing. Our illustrious musical director stopped the first song and jumped off her piano to hug me, explaining to the singers that she's "missed this". Glorious to be back.
Then it was our big engagement party. A went a bit crazy with the set-up for this one, SO MUCH food, SO MUCH booze, banners, lights, the full works. Clearly getting engaged means a lot to her. We had just the best party ever, friends old and new travelled up - by old I mean school mates I haven't seen for years, by new I mean musicians from Greg's band that I don't know socially until now. A brilliant mix of people all mingling, the weather held out, everything worked out. It was meant to be. A nice range of people, too, starting out with mates and other mates with their kids, and then a new batch seemed to turn up later on. Evening ended with us survivors sat by the fire pit, A and myself getting snuggly, with two of her mates, plus my friends Matt C, Paul M, Amanda and Josie (who is genuinely becoming one of my best friends) drinking fancy whisky into the early hours. Wonderful.
Friday 14th June 2019
Standard Friday - two schools, both good fun, tying it in seeing Mum afterwards whilst I'm in the area. Bought a lovely new shirt. Peacocks are so underrated as a shop, aren't they?
Private lesson afterwards was a goodun, and then off to A's mum's retirement party. Got recognised as being the FH drummer which was nice.
Got back and started preparing for tomorrow's party...my manly tasks mostly involved bins, and mowing the lawn. I've changed.
Private lesson afterwards was a goodun, and then off to A's mum's retirement party. Got recognised as being the FH drummer which was nice.
Got back and started preparing for tomorrow's party...my manly tasks mostly involved bins, and mowing the lawn. I've changed.
Thursday 13th June 2019
Nice start at the 'other' school - everyone seems onside, the kids are gradually progressing.
Over to my new school to host a drumming assembly which was great fun, even the headteacher helps me carry my drums in. The whole set-up there seems really nice and I can see myself doing okay out of this one. I also really, really like hosting assemblies, this is the fifth one I've done now and I've got my structure down nicely.
Private lesson with Z was great fun, as always, it often feels more like a social.
Then over to another village for the comedy night. The same line-up as Tuesday but this time, thanks to Pat the amazing promoter, a sold out show. We all stormed it tonight, it was one of those great evenings where it was the perfect billing that matched the audience who were up for it. I was probably the weakest of the four acts this evening but still went down so well, the quality so high. Can all gigs be like that, please?
Annoyingly, only did old stuff tonight, not risking the new material.
Over to my new school to host a drumming assembly which was great fun, even the headteacher helps me carry my drums in. The whole set-up there seems really nice and I can see myself doing okay out of this one. I also really, really like hosting assemblies, this is the fifth one I've done now and I've got my structure down nicely.
Private lesson with Z was great fun, as always, it often feels more like a social.
Then over to another village for the comedy night. The same line-up as Tuesday but this time, thanks to Pat the amazing promoter, a sold out show. We all stormed it tonight, it was one of those great evenings where it was the perfect billing that matched the audience who were up for it. I was probably the weakest of the four acts this evening but still went down so well, the quality so high. Can all gigs be like that, please?
Annoyingly, only did old stuff tonight, not risking the new material.
Wednesday 12th June 2019
As always, an early start for a Wednesday but it felt worth it today - the kids were all on great form. We have the big school concert next week which always raises the excitement levels.
Took Mum shopping, all seems well.
Drove to the college and waited for my student to turn up, only to find out later on that she's actually been expelled. I still got paid but it was an annoying waste of time. Not back there till September now.
Private lesson was awesome, the kid is obsessed with the Beatles so we did a Beatles special. The second private lesson was also really good. I feel like I'm on form today.
Took Mum shopping, all seems well.
Drove to the college and waited for my student to turn up, only to find out later on that she's actually been expelled. I still got paid but it was an annoying waste of time. Not back there till September now.
Private lesson was awesome, the kid is obsessed with the Beatles so we did a Beatles special. The second private lesson was also really good. I feel like I'm on form today.
Tuesday 11th June 2019
Working on new material. It's getting there. At last, though, some quality writing time. Looks like I have a new publishing deal on the cards, and the BBC thing lingers, slightly frustrating by how long everything seems to take.
Three private lessons (first one: loud, second one: amazing, third one: fine) and then over to our regular comedy night. Considering we didn't have anybody whatsoever last time, I guess I should be grateful for the four that did turn up. But still, why are we still doing this?
The line-up was great. I did 10 minutes of new material, about a minute of it actually worked.
Three private lessons (first one: loud, second one: amazing, third one: fine) and then over to our regular comedy night. Considering we didn't have anybody whatsoever last time, I guess I should be grateful for the four that did turn up. But still, why are we still doing this?
The line-up was great. I did 10 minutes of new material, about a minute of it actually worked.
Monday 10th June 2019
This week looks...well, busy, but it's all local stuff so a chance to get my creative hat on. Had the best idea ever for a novel, so made notes for that. I have about 15 notepads with novels in at the moment, I look forward to the time when I get a chance to write them all up.
I need to write my new Edinburgh show. Have messaged a bunch of people about previews and booked in three.
Spent most of the day looking at my schedule and panicking, slightly.
Four private lessons: first one (lovely), second one (manic), third one (more chilled than any lesson should be), fourth one (a bit of a struggle).
I need to write my new Edinburgh show. Have messaged a bunch of people about previews and booked in three.
Spent most of the day looking at my schedule and panicking, slightly.
Four private lessons: first one (lovely), second one (manic), third one (more chilled than any lesson should be), fourth one (a bit of a struggle).
Sunday, 9 June 2019
Sunday 9th June 2019
A busy Sunday. Too busy? Too busy.
Four private lessons (first one: annoyed me, because the student is so awesome - she's so young, so talented, responds so well and did amazingly today but her parents didn't care and wouldn't watch her perform the song she learnt and she was upset and I agree, I was upset too - every child yearns the respect of their parents and it's gutting when they're 'too busy' to care. She'll do well, though, she'll be somebody amazing, Second lesson: fine. Third lesson: kid getting a bit stroppy but we got there in the end. Fourth lesson: brilliant and challenging) and then off to look at the venue where we'll be getting married next year. Looks nice enough. All wedding venues look roughly the same.
Got back, started work on episode 4 of the radio sitcom, wasn't great, will start again tomorrow.
The show in which I meet all the footballers has been thrown a bit by the fact that one of them died yesterday. Which explains why NR wasn't keen to meet me, even if he was so apologetic about it. Doesn't feel right doing that show now, despite the (bit of) work that's gone into it. My venue person has let me change it, so I'll do a stand-up gig in that slot instead.
Evening had another performance of HG, around Phill's house. He had a lot of really lovely people over; performance was so sloppy for the first ten minutes, but got better. Audience got into it about 20 minutes in and everyone seemed happy at the end. This show is so intense, though, you could just feel it in the room. I enjoyed that a lot.
Four private lessons (first one: annoyed me, because the student is so awesome - she's so young, so talented, responds so well and did amazingly today but her parents didn't care and wouldn't watch her perform the song she learnt and she was upset and I agree, I was upset too - every child yearns the respect of their parents and it's gutting when they're 'too busy' to care. She'll do well, though, she'll be somebody amazing, Second lesson: fine. Third lesson: kid getting a bit stroppy but we got there in the end. Fourth lesson: brilliant and challenging) and then off to look at the venue where we'll be getting married next year. Looks nice enough. All wedding venues look roughly the same.
Got back, started work on episode 4 of the radio sitcom, wasn't great, will start again tomorrow.
The show in which I meet all the footballers has been thrown a bit by the fact that one of them died yesterday. Which explains why NR wasn't keen to meet me, even if he was so apologetic about it. Doesn't feel right doing that show now, despite the (bit of) work that's gone into it. My venue person has let me change it, so I'll do a stand-up gig in that slot instead.
Evening had another performance of HG, around Phill's house. He had a lot of really lovely people over; performance was so sloppy for the first ten minutes, but got better. Audience got into it about 20 minutes in and everyone seemed happy at the end. This show is so intense, though, you could just feel it in the room. I enjoyed that a lot.
Saturday 8th June 2019
The Leisure Society are probably the best band in the world. Just putting that out there. Their songs weave their way into my head and stay there for longer than any other band.
Anyway, today I drove to Bournemouth and back for a gig with Greg and band. 8 hour round trip for a 40 minute set. What looked like a really crappy festival on arrival turned out to be a gem of a gig. Rough as shit beforehand, full of drunk teenagers and social aggression (I like that phrase, but not sure if it's a thing), a tiny stage with no monitors and a mudbath, a bunch of passive-aggressive stewards and nobody letting us park anywhere near the festival. But our set was wonderful, and everyone loved it. I really, really like this band.
Gave Steve (bass) and Art (piano) lifts and it was just great conversation both ways. Being in a band is awesome; friendships are built and good times are had.
Anyway, today I drove to Bournemouth and back for a gig with Greg and band. 8 hour round trip for a 40 minute set. What looked like a really crappy festival on arrival turned out to be a gem of a gig. Rough as shit beforehand, full of drunk teenagers and social aggression (I like that phrase, but not sure if it's a thing), a tiny stage with no monitors and a mudbath, a bunch of passive-aggressive stewards and nobody letting us park anywhere near the festival. But our set was wonderful, and everyone loved it. I really, really like this band.
Gave Steve (bass) and Art (piano) lifts and it was just great conversation both ways. Being in a band is awesome; friendships are built and good times are had.
Friday 7th June 2019
I mean, life is just bizarre, isn't it? Five years ago I had a really bad stand-up show in Colchester...I mean, really bad. One of those. (basically, Colchester, Long Preston and North Shields have been my only really bad ones in five years of doing this). It was just me, shouting down a microphone as a pub full of squaddies ignored me. At the end of the gig, I gave away copies of my book to anyone who had been listening just to prove that, beyond all of this mediocre stand-up shit, I was somebody. I assumed the books were just thrown away.
Today? An email from somebody who has randomly picked up a copy of the book...I looked her up, she lives in the same village as the venue. She's a small indie publisher and would like to see more of my work. Life is amazing, sometimes.
Both schools were fine today, as much as some parents are terrible at paying me, Always hate having to send 'that' email requesting money.
Both private lessons afterwards were pretty good, with a bit of traffic frustration inbetween them, I'm driving a lot of miles at the moment in a rattly old car with issues.
Evening off. Watched Bohemium Rhapsody with A, finally. It's fucking amazing, isn't it?
Today? An email from somebody who has randomly picked up a copy of the book...I looked her up, she lives in the same village as the venue. She's a small indie publisher and would like to see more of my work. Life is amazing, sometimes.
Both schools were fine today, as much as some parents are terrible at paying me, Always hate having to send 'that' email requesting money.
Both private lessons afterwards were pretty good, with a bit of traffic frustration inbetween them, I'm driving a lot of miles at the moment in a rattly old car with issues.
Evening off. Watched Bohemium Rhapsody with A, finally. It's fucking amazing, isn't it?
Thursday, 6 June 2019
Thursday 6th June 2019
Up early to reply to a bunch of emails about the new school from parents there; looks like I won't be short of students in that place.
Over to the 'other' school which, just over the last month or so, has really started to work out. I had my doubts for ages, but I bumped into one of the TA's at the festival recently (turns out she's the singer in a band on the bill with us) so nice to catch up with her now I know her name so it all feels more sociable, and my boss there is excited about my engagement...it kind of makes me...well, 'stable' in their eyes, I guess. The lessons were great today, too. Maybe these kids just took a bit longer than the other school to get into it?
Home, did a bit of work on episode three. Spoke to the mega-famous footballer on the phone and agreed plans for Saturday. It's exciting, yet so surreal to just chat on the phone for a bit. Seems like a nice chap, despite the pyscho persona.
Three private lessons (first one - rubbish, second one - fine, third one - amazing) and then got home, mowed the lawn whilst wearing shorts because I'm a changed man, had a lovely meal with A and then back to writing...
Over to the 'other' school which, just over the last month or so, has really started to work out. I had my doubts for ages, but I bumped into one of the TA's at the festival recently (turns out she's the singer in a band on the bill with us) so nice to catch up with her now I know her name so it all feels more sociable, and my boss there is excited about my engagement...it kind of makes me...well, 'stable' in their eyes, I guess. The lessons were great today, too. Maybe these kids just took a bit longer than the other school to get into it?
Home, did a bit of work on episode three. Spoke to the mega-famous footballer on the phone and agreed plans for Saturday. It's exciting, yet so surreal to just chat on the phone for a bit. Seems like a nice chap, despite the pyscho persona.
Three private lessons (first one - rubbish, second one - fine, third one - amazing) and then got home, mowed the lawn whilst wearing shorts because I'm a changed man, had a lovely meal with A and then back to writing...
Wednesday 5th June 2019
Fun morning at the school, everyone is better after a week off.
Took mum shopping, she was in good spirits today as I had a little more time. Nice email chat to former famous footballer #1.
Re-wrote bits of sitcom episode 2.
Private lesson was lovely and then over to the college to teach a later private lesson, which was really cool - I like my hipster students who understand me, it's a good working relationship and much is being achieved.
Then over for a meeting with James, who is helping me with the Spurs show. He's a harsh, brash businessman-type, and is making a few of the calls to players I'm too cowardly to make myself. He's also a good mate and it was great to catch up.
Took mum shopping, she was in good spirits today as I had a little more time. Nice email chat to former famous footballer #1.
Re-wrote bits of sitcom episode 2.
Private lesson was lovely and then over to the college to teach a later private lesson, which was really cool - I like my hipster students who understand me, it's a good working relationship and much is being achieved.
Then over for a meeting with James, who is helping me with the Spurs show. He's a harsh, brash businessman-type, and is making a few of the calls to players I'm too cowardly to make myself. He's also a good mate and it was great to catch up.
Tuesday 4th June 2019
Nice to give my new suit a bit of an airing. It's blue, feels comedy, in a good way. Went for a meeting with a new school, who expressed interest in me a few weeks back about being their new drum teacher.
I wasn't sure if it was an interview as such, so went full-on formal in my attire, only to be told on arrival that they knew of me, like me and it was merely a case of discussing hours/pay. Which is lovely. Settled on Tuesdays, meaning I'm now in 5 schools over 4 days, which is cool...at some point I may have to let some of the private students go, for my sanity, but the fringe is expensive, as is getting married. Either way, lovely meeting - seems like a nice school, run by nice people.
Nailed episode 2 of the sitcom. Started work on episode 3.
Another Spurs player is up for it and this one is a total legend! This could all happen, you know.
Three private lessons (first one surprisingly awesome - normally a trickier one, second lesson - great, third lesson great) and then FH rehearsal in which everyone was tired but we still played till midnight.
I wasn't sure if it was an interview as such, so went full-on formal in my attire, only to be told on arrival that they knew of me, like me and it was merely a case of discussing hours/pay. Which is lovely. Settled on Tuesdays, meaning I'm now in 5 schools over 4 days, which is cool...at some point I may have to let some of the private students go, for my sanity, but the fringe is expensive, as is getting married. Either way, lovely meeting - seems like a nice school, run by nice people.
Nailed episode 2 of the sitcom. Started work on episode 3.
Another Spurs player is up for it and this one is a total legend! This could all happen, you know.
Three private lessons (first one surprisingly awesome - normally a trickier one, second lesson - great, third lesson great) and then FH rehearsal in which everyone was tired but we still played till midnight.
Monday 3rd June 2019
The fringe is suddenly a bit close. 8 weeks or something. I need to start meeting these Spurs players...I got to a point last month where I thought, "leave it to June - having a 2-week deadline will add a bit of panic, thus making it into a better show." I'm sticking with that.
Went really heavy with the messages this morning to that team, via email, Instagram, LinkedIn (even got a premium account), Twitter, voicemails...that was a productive four hours.
Also spent a bit of time on the second episode of the band sitcom.
Message back from one of the players who is up for it! But he lives in Spain, I don't have a spare day to get there and he doesn't like Skype, so we're doing it by email instead. What a thoroughly nice man.
Taught four lessons (first one: great, second one: kid was distracted, third one: fine, fourth one: great).
Got back, nailed episode two of the sitcom. I want to have 4 episodes ready in time for a reading next week. So should probably worry a bit more about Edinburgh.
Went really heavy with the messages this morning to that team, via email, Instagram, LinkedIn (even got a premium account), Twitter, voicemails...that was a productive four hours.
Also spent a bit of time on the second episode of the band sitcom.
Message back from one of the players who is up for it! But he lives in Spain, I don't have a spare day to get there and he doesn't like Skype, so we're doing it by email instead. What a thoroughly nice man.
Taught four lessons (first one: great, second one: kid was distracted, third one: fine, fourth one: great).
Got back, nailed episode two of the sitcom. I want to have 4 episodes ready in time for a reading next week. So should probably worry a bit more about Edinburgh.
Sunday, 2 June 2019
Sunday 2nd June 2019
Still don't wanna talk about the football.
Up early, cracking drum lesson with one of my regulars - the uber-talented 7-year-old girl who just picks up everything so quickly. Really challenged her today with a massively difficult track by OK Go and she nailed it within 20 minutes. This is proper child prodigy stuff.
Got back, tried to save a mouse from the clutches of the cat, failed.
Loaded up drums and then over for a sweaty 5-hour rehearsal with Greg and band, which felt awesome. There's a bit of a buzz about that one; the songs are technically very hard, but the musicians are great and everyone is clearly very relaxed around each other with lots of jokes and we're all on the same page, humour-wise. I like this band a lot.
Then a nice lesson with one of my regulars, who is in the middle of GCSE hell, so has moved from Wednesday evenings to Sundays instead, which is fine. She's on good form.
Home, finally a chance to catch up with my fiancee. Which mostly involved grabbing the cat, closing the catflap so she couldn't escape and pulling a huge piece of grass out of her eye which has been causing her problems. It was a bit like being a dad...I didn't mind it too much.
Up early, cracking drum lesson with one of my regulars - the uber-talented 7-year-old girl who just picks up everything so quickly. Really challenged her today with a massively difficult track by OK Go and she nailed it within 20 minutes. This is proper child prodigy stuff.
Got back, tried to save a mouse from the clutches of the cat, failed.
Loaded up drums and then over for a sweaty 5-hour rehearsal with Greg and band, which felt awesome. There's a bit of a buzz about that one; the songs are technically very hard, but the musicians are great and everyone is clearly very relaxed around each other with lots of jokes and we're all on the same page, humour-wise. I like this band a lot.
Then a nice lesson with one of my regulars, who is in the middle of GCSE hell, so has moved from Wednesday evenings to Sundays instead, which is fine. She's on good form.
Home, finally a chance to catch up with my fiancee. Which mostly involved grabbing the cat, closing the catflap so she couldn't escape and pulling a huge piece of grass out of her eye which has been causing her problems. It was a bit like being a dad...I didn't mind it too much.
Saturday 1st June 2019
Last night's show felt so good...I need to tour this show/do something more with it, it's a show I care about more than anything else (creatively) I'm doing at the moment and the hard work is paying off.
Enjoyed a lazy Saturday morning, leaving the house only to fetch Red Bull from the local store.
Got the train over to town, and then to play at the big local festival with the band. Didn't enjoy the walk over from the station...this festival brings out the worst in people, lots of drunk idiots, a few of them kicking wingmirrors off cars, that sort of thing.
Still, had a pleasant afternoon in good company, watching a few bands, and then we played our set, which was fine. I wish we were more than fine, we used to be amazing but it's been a tough time for the band and it's a miracle we're still going at all. There's a lot of talent in that group, but it feels flat, we just need to regain the spark, somehow, I'm desperate for it to work out.
Then dashed over to Phill's house (where I was actually living this time last year) to watch the Champions League final. Great company - Phill, Josie, James, Sherilyn, but let's not mention the score.
Enjoyed a lazy Saturday morning, leaving the house only to fetch Red Bull from the local store.
Got the train over to town, and then to play at the big local festival with the band. Didn't enjoy the walk over from the station...this festival brings out the worst in people, lots of drunk idiots, a few of them kicking wingmirrors off cars, that sort of thing.
Still, had a pleasant afternoon in good company, watching a few bands, and then we played our set, which was fine. I wish we were more than fine, we used to be amazing but it's been a tough time for the band and it's a miracle we're still going at all. There's a lot of talent in that group, but it feels flat, we just need to regain the spark, somehow, I'm desperate for it to work out.
Then dashed over to Phill's house (where I was actually living this time last year) to watch the Champions League final. Great company - Phill, Josie, James, Sherilyn, but let's not mention the score.
Saturday, 1 June 2019
Friday 31st May 2019
Realised that Mum has been feeling a bit down recently, so changed my plans and took her and the dog out for the day. She loved it, both of them did, actually.
Got back, rehearsed, then off to London to perform HG as a private show. Hosted by my old mucker, Hind, awesome as always to catch up. Loads of people dropped out which seemed to upset her (mostly because she had prepared loads of food), but the three who could make it, loved it. Really loved it, I mean - we analysed the show in great detail afterwards and they were telling me why they think it worked so well. It was all very lovely.
I'm really, really enjoying performing this show - feels like the best thing I've ever done, and it's getting tighter and tighter. Just...how do I get people to see it?
Made the last train home, ego quite big.
Got back, rehearsed, then off to London to perform HG as a private show. Hosted by my old mucker, Hind, awesome as always to catch up. Loads of people dropped out which seemed to upset her (mostly because she had prepared loads of food), but the three who could make it, loved it. Really loved it, I mean - we analysed the show in great detail afterwards and they were telling me why they think it worked so well. It was all very lovely.
I'm really, really enjoying performing this show - feels like the best thing I've ever done, and it's getting tighter and tighter. Just...how do I get people to see it?
Made the last train home, ego quite big.
Thursday 30th May 2019
This half-term has been lovely, but equally it was lovely to get back to teaching today. As a freelancer I panic if I'm not working.
Took Mum shopping and then taught four private lessons. One of my students recently dropped out of uni, is struggling for cash so keeps himself going by delivering food on his bike...he then spends that money on drum lessons. It all feels a bit weird, that, but I'm flattered all the same. All four lessons were good today, I thought.
Got back and made the biggest of to-do lists. I've had it too relaxed for too long!
Took Mum shopping and then taught four private lessons. One of my students recently dropped out of uni, is struggling for cash so keeps himself going by delivering food on his bike...he then spends that money on drum lessons. It all feels a bit weird, that, but I'm flattered all the same. All four lessons were good today, I thought.
Got back and made the biggest of to-do lists. I've had it too relaxed for too long!
Wednesday 29th May 2019
The drive back was longer than planned as there were just accidents everywhere, but it's all worthwhile - I like Dorset, I think I prefer it to Devon.
Chilled out for a bit, in our annoyingly happy bliss, and then I went out to my old mate Rich's stag-do which was, in the scale of things, a tame affair (it was done by 9.30pm), but great to catch up with old mates over a good curry.
Chilled out for a bit, in our annoyingly happy bliss, and then I went out to my old mate Rich's stag-do which was, in the scale of things, a tame affair (it was done by 9.30pm), but great to catch up with old mates over a good curry.
Tuesday 28th May 2019
Today was the day I was originally going to propose, but obviously I just jumped the gun and did it in the garden instead. Still, we went on the boat trip anyway (that I had booked ages ago with this in mind) and I spent the whole time thinking "glad I did it when I did" because it was mega blustery and could have been a disaster if I tried to get on one knee in that in that situation.
Restaurant afterwards took 45 minutes to bring us our food so I had great pleasure in leaving them a 1 star review...so easy these days, isn't it?
Sill, Poole was nice - the weather was kind, I got some writing time in and I beat A at cards. All in all, a bit of a win.
Restaurant afterwards took 45 minutes to bring us our food so I had great pleasure in leaving them a 1 star review...so easy these days, isn't it?
Sill, Poole was nice - the weather was kind, I got some writing time in and I beat A at cards. All in all, a bit of a win.
Monday 27th May 2019
Our fourth holiday of the year and it's only May...this girl really is good for me. Only a couple of nights away this time, in Poole, but it's a really lovely place. Rented a frankly weird little flat from Air B n B, it was all a bit...burlesque, really, wouldn't like to meet the guy who owned it, seemed creepy. Still, it had a private bar.
Had a lovely meal out, walked along the seafront, the usual romantic stuff.
Had a lovely meal out, walked along the seafront, the usual romantic stuff.
Sunday 26th May 2019
So, so hungover but that's totally my own fault. Teaching drums with a hangover this bad is tough, so I've come to realise, but got through my three lessons before heading back to sleep it all off.
Then over to town to watch, and then perform at our new local fringe festival. The whole set-up is brilliant, and they had great audiences throughout (which means people in Cambridge DO come to things, just needs a bit of plugging). Saw a couple of nice shows and then did HOP to a lovely, if a little reserved, audience. I mean, they all sang along, but it was quite polite...everyone left feeling happy and the tips bucket was generous, so no harm done, but not quite the chaos that we've had before.
Then over to town to watch, and then perform at our new local fringe festival. The whole set-up is brilliant, and they had great audiences throughout (which means people in Cambridge DO come to things, just needs a bit of plugging). Saw a couple of nice shows and then did HOP to a lovely, if a little reserved, audience. I mean, they all sang along, but it was quite polite...everyone left feeling happy and the tips bucket was generous, so no harm done, but not quite the chaos that we've had before.
Saturday 25th May 2019
Working on the band soap opera for Alan H, which I said I'd write at the end of last year. Turns out these things take a bit longer than I thought.
In between writing, nice double lesson with my regulars - two hours, but it flew by.
Evening had birthday drinks with close friends, we all got a bit merry (understatement) and it was very late, but I'm very grateful for the amount of close friends I have. It's all worked out well.
In between writing, nice double lesson with my regulars - two hours, but it flew by.
Evening had birthday drinks with close friends, we all got a bit merry (understatement) and it was very late, but I'm very grateful for the amount of close friends I have. It's all worked out well.
Friday 24th May 2019
Birthday. 38. I remember a birthday a couple years' back where I felt so immeasurably low about everything....career, being single, venue threatening to sue me, you know - the usual. It's all worked out okay, you know. Got a wonderful fiance, I'm in two brilliant award-winning bands, got a cracking new show that everyone seems to like and I've somehow managed to forge myself a career as a freelance teacher. It's all good.
Today was normal enough, both schools were...well, tired, as is always the case the lesson before half-term, the kids are just looking forward to a week off, but we went over some old stuff and it was fine. Next term is the longest of the year - seven intense weeks, which to a non-teacher won't sound tough at all, but it actually is.
Private drum lesson after was lovely, and then over to Mum's house for birthday dinner. A came over as well, the dog went a bit mad and everyone had a lovely time.
Today was normal enough, both schools were...well, tired, as is always the case the lesson before half-term, the kids are just looking forward to a week off, but we went over some old stuff and it was fine. Next term is the longest of the year - seven intense weeks, which to a non-teacher won't sound tough at all, but it actually is.
Private drum lesson after was lovely, and then over to Mum's house for birthday dinner. A came over as well, the dog went a bit mad and everyone had a lovely time.
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