God, I'm bored.
Woke up early and sent a bunch of emails to students explaining that I'll soon be available for proper online teaching when the electric kit arrives. Three enthusiastic yes pleases straight away, another later on and another who wants to start again in 2 weeks' time. Two others already having regular online lessons with me. A few more want a break for Easter but will resume lessons soon...so, we're actually still doing an Easter break, then? With all that's going on?
Emails took ages, then I spent hours agonising which electric kit to buy. Still not convinced I've got the right one, but then again I'm old school and never liked electric kits in the first place...for £300 it's a worthwhile investment, but I'll never be a convert.
Went to Waitrose with A, only to find out only one person is let in, so I waited in the car.
Had a call from my Edinburgh venue. All cancelled this year. It's a shame because IT'S JUST ANOTHER FUN THING GONE, STOP CANCELLING MY FUN, LIFE but equally I get fully refunded and the refund is about the same as a month's outgoings, which is welcome right now.
Got back, taught a lesson online (audio terrible but we got through), tidied up website and suddenly another day is gone.
One lesson tomorrow, but nothing else until Saturday. I need to start writing that novel...
Tuesday, 31 March 2020
Monday 30th March 2020
We've put together a little timetable for weekdays in the house, just trying to give these odd days a bit of structure.
Naturally, woke up late and didn't stick to it. Still, we had meals together, which is something.
Taught four lessons today - which is my target for the rest of this lockdown. I can live comfortably on four hours' work a day, without touching the money I've put aside. Saying that, I've got absolutely fuck all work for the rest of the week.
It's writing time, let's just pretend it's intentional writing time.
Anyway, today was busy with three writing courses in a row...all of them were exhausting, but amazing. Every student was totally on it, so creative, so inspiring - I just had a brilliant, exciting time for three hours solid.
Then taught a drum lesson online for one of my regulars where the internet connection was a bit slow and we got a little frustrated. He was fine with it, though.
One of the parents of my students, aware that I'm losing a lot of trade, has kindly booked and paid me for 20 lessons in advance, to keep me going. From that money, I've ordered an electric kit, which means I can teach properly from home. A wise investment? Well, all of this on the basis that my students want to be taught from home, but maybe they're not up for it? Uncertain times ahead. Still, got a new toy at least.
Naturally, woke up late and didn't stick to it. Still, we had meals together, which is something.
Taught four lessons today - which is my target for the rest of this lockdown. I can live comfortably on four hours' work a day, without touching the money I've put aside. Saying that, I've got absolutely fuck all work for the rest of the week.
It's writing time, let's just pretend it's intentional writing time.
Anyway, today was busy with three writing courses in a row...all of them were exhausting, but amazing. Every student was totally on it, so creative, so inspiring - I just had a brilliant, exciting time for three hours solid.
Then taught a drum lesson online for one of my regulars where the internet connection was a bit slow and we got a little frustrated. He was fine with it, though.
One of the parents of my students, aware that I'm losing a lot of trade, has kindly booked and paid me for 20 lessons in advance, to keep me going. From that money, I've ordered an electric kit, which means I can teach properly from home. A wise investment? Well, all of this on the basis that my students want to be taught from home, but maybe they're not up for it? Uncertain times ahead. Still, got a new toy at least.
Sunday, 29 March 2020
Sunday 29th March 2020
There's every chance that my life could lose all direction here.
Had a lie in, played Playstation for a bit. It's like me, only in my 20s.
Put it away again, the temptation is too much.
A, always wonderful, made us a lovely Sunday lunch.
5 hours editing the film, all finished, looks brilliant.
Had a lie in, played Playstation for a bit. It's like me, only in my 20s.
Put it away again, the temptation is too much.
A, always wonderful, made us a lovely Sunday lunch.
5 hours editing the film, all finished, looks brilliant.
Saturday 28th March 2020
Took some 'essential' supplies to mum's house - stuff she can't carry back from the shops herself. Did everything properly; left it on her garden path and then we had a conversation from about 12 feet away. It was both fun yet terribly sad.
Actually have some lessons booked in for Monday, hurrah! All for the writing course, which could be my saviour.
The students so far have sent back their stories and they're brilliant, it was great to 'mark' them like a real teacher.
Unboxed my Playstation, haven't played it in nearly 3 years. Got addicted to Pro Evo and lost 3 hours of the day...
Actually have some lessons booked in for Monday, hurrah! All for the writing course, which could be my saviour.
The students so far have sent back their stories and they're brilliant, it was great to 'mark' them like a real teacher.
Unboxed my Playstation, haven't played it in nearly 3 years. Got addicted to Pro Evo and lost 3 hours of the day...
Friday 27th March 2020
So weird having NOTHING in my diary. Normally my Fridays are 2 schools and 2 private lessons, often with a gig after that or drinks with friends. I miss those days already, so, so much. What frustrating, awful times.
A has been great, reminding me not to worry about financial things as she's still on a full wage. I need to be earning properly, though. Fuck, I mean, it's only been four days, calm down.
Spent the day video editing this fringe film, it looks great so far.
Mowed the lawn for an hour, was great to get some air.
Drummed for a bit, sorry, neighbours.
Will start writing the Christmas novel next week.
A has been great, reminding me not to worry about financial things as she's still on a full wage. I need to be earning properly, though. Fuck, I mean, it's only been four days, calm down.
Spent the day video editing this fringe film, it looks great so far.
Mowed the lawn for an hour, was great to get some air.
Drummed for a bit, sorry, neighbours.
Will start writing the Christmas novel next week.
Thursday 26th March 2020
The world is a bit of a strange place at the moment (understatement). It's so weird having very little in the diary - it's not so much about the money (I've got enough put by to keep me going for a few months if need be), it's just the sudden lack of purpose.
My students are all in regular contact, still, and I need to quickly find a way to teach drums online properly.
Video editing this fringe diary thing from last summer is something fun, at least. 140 clips to edit, and somehow make into a movie.
The students seem happy with the drum lessons I've pre-recorded for them.
Really fun time running the writing course, two students, absolute chaos, but great, great fun. As a format this works so well.
My students are all in regular contact, still, and I need to quickly find a way to teach drums online properly.
Video editing this fringe diary thing from last summer is something fun, at least. 140 clips to edit, and somehow make into a movie.
The students seem happy with the drum lessons I've pre-recorded for them.
Really fun time running the writing course, two students, absolute chaos, but great, great fun. As a format this works so well.
Thursday, 26 March 2020
Wednesday 25th March 2020
Turns out the files for my tutorial videos are massive, which is why they're taking DAYS to upload, so have fixed that and it's finally starting to work with a much lower resolution.
It's just all faffing, isn't it?
Finished writing my Edinburgh fringe diaries book, which I've been working on since October. Will put it aside for a bit and then re-read at some point soon. At least having all this time off has allowed me to crack on with these projects that have been on my to-do list for a while.
Taught my first online story writing course and got such a buzz out of it, as did the student. It was just a brilliant, action-packed, 45 minutes. Amazing.
Buzzing, I then started to plug this course properly. I think I'm onto something...
Started editing last year's Edinburgh fringe diaries video, which so far has about 150 clips that need sorting. I've got the hang of the software now, this will take me a week or so but it'll be a week well spent and a nice film to add to my CV.
It's just all faffing, isn't it?
Finished writing my Edinburgh fringe diaries book, which I've been working on since October. Will put it aside for a bit and then re-read at some point soon. At least having all this time off has allowed me to crack on with these projects that have been on my to-do list for a while.
Taught my first online story writing course and got such a buzz out of it, as did the student. It was just a brilliant, action-packed, 45 minutes. Amazing.
Buzzing, I then started to plug this course properly. I think I'm onto something...
Started editing last year's Edinburgh fringe diaries video, which so far has about 150 clips that need sorting. I've got the hang of the software now, this will take me a week or so but it'll be a week well spent and a nice film to add to my CV.
Tuesday 24th March 2020
Mum is upset, not because I can't take her shopping anymore, but because she just won't see any of her family, at all, for what could be a very long time. She relies on us. I'll be calling her three times a day.
House move fallen through, the lawyers were up for it but the removal firm aren't allowed to operate.
God knows what is going to happen to the wedding.
We had such big plans for this year. A is struggling with all of these developments, and I'm struggling because she's crying so much about it.
Got the hang of the video editing software and edited the tutorial videos properly, set them all to go online and got frustrated by our slow internet speed.
Taught an online drumming lesson - these things typically don't work as that split-second time delay makes me think the drummer is playing out of time, when he isn't. The parent insisted on it, though. It wasn't great, but we got through it.
House move fallen through, the lawyers were up for it but the removal firm aren't allowed to operate.
God knows what is going to happen to the wedding.
We had such big plans for this year. A is struggling with all of these developments, and I'm struggling because she's crying so much about it.
Got the hang of the video editing software and edited the tutorial videos properly, set them all to go online and got frustrated by our slow internet speed.
Taught an online drumming lesson - these things typically don't work as that split-second time delay makes me think the drummer is playing out of time, when he isn't. The parent insisted on it, though. It wasn't great, but we got through it.
Monday 23rd March 2020
With no school to go into today, I'm trying my best to be as productive as possible with the time.
Packing for the move, basically, with occasional moments to check my emails as more and more work gets cancelled.
Tidied up the webpage for my new writing course, which I was supposed to be running in September and one of my colleges (and still will be) but I'm now running as an online thing. A few signed up already.
Two of my private, one-to-one lessons were still on today (the other 4 cancelled for obvious reasons). Was it irresponsible to still do these? They were both rubbish, anyway, as we spent the whole time talking about how irresponsible this all is...
Driving back, the news was on the radio...we're on lockdown. Well, that solves that problem, then.
Monday, 23 March 2020
Sunday 22nd March 2020
Still not sure about our wedding now...but August is miles away, yeah? We had such big plans for this year, but can gradually see our dreams fading.
Mother's Day and my mum (65) just isn't getting the social distancing thing. She seemed upset when all I could do was hand her stuff on her doorstep - card, flowers, bog roll.
My students have nearly all cancelled, apart from a couple who want to try online sessions on Skype.
Went to the new house (looks like we're still moving in a couple days') and measured up, that sort of thing. The house is absolutely stunning, we just need to get in there asap. I don't mind being locked indoors if we can actually be in there...
Got back and spent the evening editing my drum tutorial videos/getting frustrated by this fancy new video editing software.
Mother's Day and my mum (65) just isn't getting the social distancing thing. She seemed upset when all I could do was hand her stuff on her doorstep - card, flowers, bog roll.
My students have nearly all cancelled, apart from a couple who want to try online sessions on Skype.
Went to the new house (looks like we're still moving in a couple days') and measured up, that sort of thing. The house is absolutely stunning, we just need to get in there asap. I don't mind being locked indoors if we can actually be in there...
Got back and spent the evening editing my drum tutorial videos/getting frustrated by this fancy new video editing software.
Saturday, 21 March 2020
Saturday 21st March 2020
Up early, to go and teach regular student for what will be the last time in a while. They were so happy that I instigated the 'let's have no lessons for a bit and do the whole distancing thing' thing, it's morally right.
Got back, set up a small kit in the spare room and then filmed 24 tracks, all with instructions, for my students. Took over 4 hours...
Taught another 'final lesson for a bit' with a cracking student, we had great fun.
Got back, lovely meal with A. She fell asleep and I caught up on emails.
Got back, set up a small kit in the spare room and then filmed 24 tracks, all with instructions, for my students. Took over 4 hours...
Taught another 'final lesson for a bit' with a cracking student, we had great fun.
Got back, lovely meal with A. She fell asleep and I caught up on emails.
Friday 20th March 2020
Least favourite school have very kindly sent out an email about my playwriting lessons, and as a result I have a bit of online teaching work coming in.
Regular college have got me drum teaching work via Skype.
Bits and bobs, but enough to keep me ticking over. I'm not too worried about money, I'm just not very good at being in.
Final day at regular school for what is likely to be a long while. Almost felt emotional. I hope I see these cracking kids again soon, they're decent drummers with nice attitudes.
Final private lesson with one of my regular students for a long while. It was fine.
After discussing with various parents, they're up for me recording drum lesson videos and then setting them up as private links and then they'll pay me for them. The cost is half what one of my lessons would be, but then again - if I make them all in one go, it's technically easy money. Not all of them will want it, so I'll be on technically less than half my normal wage, but equally I won't have to spend anything on fuel. As a stopgap, it'll do the trick.
Regular college have got me drum teaching work via Skype.
Bits and bobs, but enough to keep me ticking over. I'm not too worried about money, I'm just not very good at being in.
Final day at regular school for what is likely to be a long while. Almost felt emotional. I hope I see these cracking kids again soon, they're decent drummers with nice attitudes.
Final private lesson with one of my regular students for a long while. It was fine.
After discussing with various parents, they're up for me recording drum lesson videos and then setting them up as private links and then they'll pay me for them. The cost is half what one of my lessons would be, but then again - if I make them all in one go, it's technically easy money. Not all of them will want it, so I'll be on technically less than half my normal wage, but equally I won't have to spend anything on fuel. As a stopgap, it'll do the trick.
Thursday 19th March 2020
A whole day in! I get it's going to be this way for a while, but still - I feel like I may lose my mind. I've got enough in the bank to last me for a while, a bit put aside, but I'm not the type to just sit around and watch Netflix, waiting for this all to blow over...
Spoke to a lot of parents about what to do about lessons. Found out a few things I didn't know that put everything into perspective...just, how long some of them have to live because of other conditions, so why they must self-isolate now. Some of it is heartbreaking, and they've hidden it so well.
Cleaned the house, we're probably still moving next week. Hope so.
Set up a new web/video calling class in how to write plays and sent it to my schools.
Wrote for three hours.
3 months of this? Jesus.
Spoke to a lot of parents about what to do about lessons. Found out a few things I didn't know that put everything into perspective...just, how long some of them have to live because of other conditions, so why they must self-isolate now. Some of it is heartbreaking, and they've hidden it so well.
Cleaned the house, we're probably still moving next week. Hope so.
Set up a new web/video calling class in how to write plays and sent it to my schools.
Wrote for three hours.
3 months of this? Jesus.
Thursday, 19 March 2020
Wednesday 18th March 2020
In retrospect, I probably should have just got a normal office job or something. At least then I'd get sick pay, and I can work from home.
But the is the problem, isn't it? In the future, none of us are going to risk trying something different. And then nobody will learn musical instruments, or try to be a performer. And the world will get really boring.
Why isn't there sick pay for the self-employed?
Taught at regular school, probably for the first time in ages, and then took Mum shopping. I probably stressed her out by being so stressed, but, you know, the whole country is approaching lockdown and I've lost my livelihood.
The college, also for the final time in ages, was fine.
They're closing all schools from Friday.
Madness.
Taught one private lesson, and then the second one was cancelled because the student was in self-isolation.
Literally every time I check my emails it's people cancelling stuff.
But the is the problem, isn't it? In the future, none of us are going to risk trying something different. And then nobody will learn musical instruments, or try to be a performer. And the world will get really boring.
Why isn't there sick pay for the self-employed?
Taught at regular school, probably for the first time in ages, and then took Mum shopping. I probably stressed her out by being so stressed, but, you know, the whole country is approaching lockdown and I've lost my livelihood.
The college, also for the final time in ages, was fine.
They're closing all schools from Friday.
Madness.
Taught one private lesson, and then the second one was cancelled because the student was in self-isolation.
Literally every time I check my emails it's people cancelling stuff.
Tuesday 17th March 2020
An odd day. Woke up to an email from least favourite school saying they're cancelling all music lessons until all of the virus stuff blows over, and then on arrival at favourite school they told me this would be my last lesson there for the "foreseeable future". I then had three emails in a row from parents telling me they're cancelling lessons due to self-isolating.
Literally, my career has vanished, just like that. I panicked a bit, still taught the lessons in the school for the final time, but clearly my head wasn't in the right place.
How can this be happening? One minute you're fine, the next everything just gets ripped from under your feet.
Taught three private lessons, one of which is also going to be ending for a bit because the mum is being put on unpaid sick leave as she has asthma.
This is all totally fucked up.
Monday 16th March 2020
The school was very panicky this morning; one kid was coughing in an assembly and nobody quite knew what to do.
The lessons were great, though, mega enthusiastic all round - both me and the students all seemed to be on it.
We're still not sure if our house move is on for next week, everything feels up in the air.
Got back, actively avoided the news and did some writing for a couple of hours.
Three private lessons followed (first one: fine, second one: excellent, third one: jolly). I get the sense all of these are about to stop soon, for obvious reasons.
The lessons were great, though, mega enthusiastic all round - both me and the students all seemed to be on it.
We're still not sure if our house move is on for next week, everything feels up in the air.
Got back, actively avoided the news and did some writing for a couple of hours.
Three private lessons followed (first one: fine, second one: excellent, third one: jolly). I get the sense all of these are about to stop soon, for obvious reasons.
Sunday, 15 March 2020
Sunday 15th March 2020
I mean, the fear is huge, isn't it? Are we all gonna make it through?
Who would have thought we'd be in the position six months ago? I've never seen anything like it.
Rehearsal was cancelled today due to a band member having a cold and that's enough to cancel something at the moment. Both lessons also cancelled (first one because the student was running late getting back from Norfolk but we've hastily rearranged, the second one because the student has a medical condition so is self-isolating for as long as it takes).
Spent about two hours writing the 'perfect' email to my students - both school (parents) and private, explaining how I'd like the lessons to continue in these difficult times, but also how honest we have to be with each other about health, and how lessons will be cancelled even if one of us has them mildest of common colds. It was also a bit of a rallying cry, detailing the 'happy songs only' rule, and how we can get through this.
I've had a lot of praise from it since, from various parents telling me how grateful they are that I care so much. I do, but why wouldn't I?
But also, alongside all of this madness of THE WHOLE WORLD DYING, our house move still looks set to go ahead at the end of the month, so much packing is needed. And dismantling an old bed, and failing to use powertools, that sort of thing.
Who would have thought we'd be in the position six months ago? I've never seen anything like it.
Rehearsal was cancelled today due to a band member having a cold and that's enough to cancel something at the moment. Both lessons also cancelled (first one because the student was running late getting back from Norfolk but we've hastily rearranged, the second one because the student has a medical condition so is self-isolating for as long as it takes).
Spent about two hours writing the 'perfect' email to my students - both school (parents) and private, explaining how I'd like the lessons to continue in these difficult times, but also how honest we have to be with each other about health, and how lessons will be cancelled even if one of us has them mildest of common colds. It was also a bit of a rallying cry, detailing the 'happy songs only' rule, and how we can get through this.
I've had a lot of praise from it since, from various parents telling me how grateful they are that I care so much. I do, but why wouldn't I?
But also, alongside all of this madness of THE WHOLE WORLD DYING, our house move still looks set to go ahead at the end of the month, so much packing is needed. And dismantling an old bed, and failing to use powertools, that sort of thing.
Saturday 14th March 2020
A is getting really scared about the Coronavirus, we all are, of course we are, we're living in strange times. Last night, though, I had to ask her to stop talking about it, as we're both dragging each other down a bit.
Nice lie-in this morning and then four private lessons (first one: excellent, second one: kid clearly bored, third one: really strong - newish student who is totally getting it, fourth one: wonderful, as the kid was being looked after by his grandmother and she ended up playing herself for the first time and was great).
Home for a couple hours of packing, and then back out for another lesson (a goodun) and then went to watch A in her concert, which was superb. We then drove by our new house, at 10pm, to see what it's like out there on a Saturday night. Completely deserted. Perfect.
Nice lie-in this morning and then four private lessons (first one: excellent, second one: kid clearly bored, third one: really strong - newish student who is totally getting it, fourth one: wonderful, as the kid was being looked after by his grandmother and she ended up playing herself for the first time and was great).
Home for a couple hours of packing, and then back out for another lesson (a goodun) and then went to watch A in her concert, which was superb. We then drove by our new house, at 10pm, to see what it's like out there on a Saturday night. Completely deserted. Perfect.
Friday 13th March 2020
Bought mum some more stuff. I'm turning into one of 'those' people, but at least I'm panic buying for someone else. A and myself have enough at home to keep us going, we'll be fine, but not sure my mum will be.
Morning school was fine, the kid who has been playing up recently was better today. Three off, self-isolating because their parents are worried. I get it.
The next school was fine, full class in, all good.
Three private lessons followed, all really strong - not being arrogant, but my lessons this week have been fucking brilliant.
A was in her rehearsal so I had the perfect night in: Men Behaving Badly on Netflix, a takeaway pizza and a couple beers. I love her, of course I do, but I do enjoy a bit of slob-time, too.
Morning school was fine, the kid who has been playing up recently was better today. Three off, self-isolating because their parents are worried. I get it.
The next school was fine, full class in, all good.
Three private lessons followed, all really strong - not being arrogant, but my lessons this week have been fucking brilliant.
A was in her rehearsal so I had the perfect night in: Men Behaving Badly on Netflix, a takeaway pizza and a couple beers. I love her, of course I do, but I do enjoy a bit of slob-time, too.
Thursday 12th March 2020
I think the virus fear is kicking in to a lot of my students; a few are self-isolating, lessons are being cancelled. I can see tough times on the horizon.
At my least favourite school in the morning but it was fine today, everyone in good spirits, they did what they were told, and only had to throw one kid out. I did so because he literally just farted for twenty minutes. Twenty minutes of constant smells. How does he do it? My classroom stank.
Then over to my other school, which was much better this week after last week's mediocre sessions.
Quick private lesson (was fine) and then my gig was cancelled this evening, which I'm guessing will happen a lot over the next few weeks.
Spent the evening catching up on show admins, booking in stuff for July. It'll be fine by then, yeah?
At my least favourite school in the morning but it was fine today, everyone in good spirits, they did what they were told, and only had to throw one kid out. I did so because he literally just farted for twenty minutes. Twenty minutes of constant smells. How does he do it? My classroom stank.
Then over to my other school, which was much better this week after last week's mediocre sessions.
Quick private lesson (was fine) and then my gig was cancelled this evening, which I'm guessing will happen a lot over the next few weeks.
Spent the evening catching up on show admins, booking in stuff for July. It'll be fine by then, yeah?
Wednesday 11th March 2020
I guess my fears aren't so much about the wedding, but more about all of my family and friends being alive for it. The virus is spreading, I feels like we're in a horrible movie.
At least my car is doing strange things, which is a bit of a distraction from all this horrid stuff that is happening at the moment. Something to do with an airbag. Later, we (I say 'we' - my Facebook friends who seemed excited to help) diagnosed it as the weight of my beer cans and speaker confusing the seat into thinking that it was a baby, and babies aren't allowed on the front seat, nor are they allowed airbags. Social media, for all it's faults (negativity, mostly), does have it's uses.
Fun times in the school this morning, everyone preparing for this evening's concert with a healthy mix of fear and excitement.
Took mum shopping and realised just how much she's not understanding this whole Coronavirus situation, so then popped out to buy her more stuff. Not panic buying, we're literally talking 6 cans of veg, one packet of rice and some kitchen roll. I'll do this every now and then, especially as the shops near her seem to be suffering less than the rest of the country, it seems, and are well-stocked.
The school concert was fine. Some of their timing was out, which niggled me, but when I raised this with the head of music (who sent me a very nice text) she simply said, "they're six. They're doing brilliantly."
From there over to a brilliant house band rehearsal with Greg and band. Just a room full of lovely people playing so well, it was a joy.
At least my car is doing strange things, which is a bit of a distraction from all this horrid stuff that is happening at the moment. Something to do with an airbag. Later, we (I say 'we' - my Facebook friends who seemed excited to help) diagnosed it as the weight of my beer cans and speaker confusing the seat into thinking that it was a baby, and babies aren't allowed on the front seat, nor are they allowed airbags. Social media, for all it's faults (negativity, mostly), does have it's uses.
Fun times in the school this morning, everyone preparing for this evening's concert with a healthy mix of fear and excitement.
Took mum shopping and realised just how much she's not understanding this whole Coronavirus situation, so then popped out to buy her more stuff. Not panic buying, we're literally talking 6 cans of veg, one packet of rice and some kitchen roll. I'll do this every now and then, especially as the shops near her seem to be suffering less than the rest of the country, it seems, and are well-stocked.
The school concert was fine. Some of their timing was out, which niggled me, but when I raised this with the head of music (who sent me a very nice text) she simply said, "they're six. They're doing brilliantly."
From there over to a brilliant house band rehearsal with Greg and band. Just a room full of lovely people playing so well, it was a joy.
Tuesday, 10 March 2020
Tuesday 10th March 2020
Feeling slightly on edge about this whole Coronavirus thingy, as everyone else is. Like many, my fears are purely selfish: what if we have to cancel the wedding? Or my stag do?
A has fears about her dad, who is 80, many health problems. We've effectively locked him away for the foreseeable future.
We move house at the end of the month, will that be affected? We've spent over £430k on the house, we're desperate to be in there and start living in it.
All selfish, I know. There's obviously a much bigger picture here.
My day was fine, quite nice if anything. Favourite school was back to being lovely, popped home for a little bit and had a nap (the cat thought I was dead and seemed to get really emotional around me, before realising I was fine and then felt silly, IT WAS THE CUTEST THING EVER) and then two private lessons (first one: not as good as last week but okay, second one: awesome), supposed to be a third but the kid was sick.
Spent the evening catching up on emails and being disappointed by Spurs.
A has fears about her dad, who is 80, many health problems. We've effectively locked him away for the foreseeable future.
We move house at the end of the month, will that be affected? We've spent over £430k on the house, we're desperate to be in there and start living in it.
All selfish, I know. There's obviously a much bigger picture here.
My day was fine, quite nice if anything. Favourite school was back to being lovely, popped home for a little bit and had a nap (the cat thought I was dead and seemed to get really emotional around me, before realising I was fine and then felt silly, IT WAS THE CUTEST THING EVER) and then two private lessons (first one: not as good as last week but okay, second one: awesome), supposed to be a third but the kid was sick.
Spent the evening catching up on emails and being disappointed by Spurs.
Monday 9th March 2020
Long day, but I'm so excited about this film. Me, little me, being the lead in a proper movie? I've got to make this work, I've got to learn lines quicker...
Morning school frustrated me. Turned up, set up kit, only one kid allowed drum lessons as everyone else was rehearsing a play.
Five private lessons followed (first one: brilliant, second one: really brilliant, third one: fun, fourth one: chaos, fifth one: productive) and then over to the BBC to perform live with Greg and the house band. Sounded good, interviewed well live on air, all is well.
Morning school frustrated me. Turned up, set up kit, only one kid allowed drum lessons as everyone else was rehearsing a play.
Five private lessons followed (first one: brilliant, second one: really brilliant, third one: fun, fourth one: chaos, fifth one: productive) and then over to the BBC to perform live with Greg and the house band. Sounded good, interviewed well live on air, all is well.
Sunday 8th March 2020
We were good last night, in a professional sort of way. It might not be as exciting as it was 4 or 5 years ago, but we've kinda done everything we've wanted to and it was all so new then. It was still great fun last night, though, a reminder of the 'bigger' gigs that we used to play all the time.
Two private lessons in the morning (first one: amazing, second one: felt flat, really poor, how did we get through the whole hour - student unenthusiastic, me struggling to keep her going) and then A and myself went over to the new village for Sunday lunch. I don't think this pub will be our new local. I hope the other pubs aren't as chavvy. I hope the new village isn't all this chavvy. Some of the language that was being used...
Decent lesson afterwards, everyone there (student, parents, random person in the house) gets it.
Then dashed over to Ely for screentesting the HG movie with Jonnie. Basically involved me acting the very first two scenes of the film as they tested out cameras and audio and stuff. My performance wasn't great, but the direction was. It's all so positive, this is going to be a BIG project, the sort of the project I dream about.
Two private lessons in the morning (first one: amazing, second one: felt flat, really poor, how did we get through the whole hour - student unenthusiastic, me struggling to keep her going) and then A and myself went over to the new village for Sunday lunch. I don't think this pub will be our new local. I hope the other pubs aren't as chavvy. I hope the new village isn't all this chavvy. Some of the language that was being used...
Decent lesson afterwards, everyone there (student, parents, random person in the house) gets it.
Then dashed over to Ely for screentesting the HG movie with Jonnie. Basically involved me acting the very first two scenes of the film as they tested out cameras and audio and stuff. My performance wasn't great, but the direction was. It's all so positive, this is going to be a BIG project, the sort of the project I dream about.
Saturday 7th March 2020
My Saturday morning students are always good value - the first one we worked on Baggy Trousers, the second heavy rock and then the third one is so young and enthusiastic just hitting the drums brings so much joy to him.
Met up with the guys and off to Bury for a photoshoot (I always look weird in photos) (maybe I just look weird) (bit of both) and then soundcheck, nice dinner and awesome gig supporting a famous 80s band.
We played really well tonight, which makes me wonder why we aren't gigging three times a week like we used to. We should do, when we're like this we can still be as good as anyone.
Met up with the guys and off to Bury for a photoshoot (I always look weird in photos) (maybe I just look weird) (bit of both) and then soundcheck, nice dinner and awesome gig supporting a famous 80s band.
We played really well tonight, which makes me wonder why we aren't gigging three times a week like we used to. We should do, when we're like this we can still be as good as anyone.
Friday 6th March 2020
The first kid at 'favourite' school annoyed me again, telling how he wants to learn guitar instead of drums because they're louder. Fucking not, mate. The rest of the morning was great.
Typical dash to the next school, shouldn't be a dash but they keep closing every road I want to drive on, but the two hours there flew by.
A couple hours' private lessons followed, both felt really strong and then A and myself tried to have date night but, after a lovely meal (which she cooked) we both fell asleep watching Friday Night Dinner on Netflix.
How have we ended up so old?
Typical dash to the next school, shouldn't be a dash but they keep closing every road I want to drive on, but the two hours there flew by.
A couple hours' private lessons followed, both felt really strong and then A and myself tried to have date night but, after a lovely meal (which she cooked) we both fell asleep watching Friday Night Dinner on Netflix.
How have we ended up so old?
Thursday 5th March 2020
Another early start, but things better at the school now that I've got a few things off my chest and agreed to stay (and they're dropping the kids I don't like from my lessons). Was fine today.
Off to my other Thursday school, which was fine, and then there private lessons (first one: amazing, second one: hard work but worth it, third one: great). I'm in a good place today.
Back, tried to write, looked at what I'd written the other day, drank beer, fell asleep. Every man has his limits, yeah?
Off to my other Thursday school, which was fine, and then there private lessons (first one: amazing, second one: hard work but worth it, third one: great). I'm in a good place today.
Back, tried to write, looked at what I'd written the other day, drank beer, fell asleep. Every man has his limits, yeah?
Wednesday 4th March 2020
Early start at the regular school but it's all good - especially the newer kids. I seem to be getting a reputation as somebody who can deal with the 'troubled' students and making them into musicians. Maybe it was because I was like that, at that age, too.
Took Mum shopping and then my least favourite school messaged. I've quit - had done a while ago, agreeing to stay until the summer, but, having interviewed my potential replacements, they've come back to me asking what it would take for me to stay. I was a bit of a diva in my response, listing everything that I think is wrong (the size of the music room, the aggression of certain students, the lack of performance opportunities, the hours) with suggestions to rectify this. They agreed to all of it, and offered a pay-rise on top, within the hour. It's not about the money. I've now agreed to stay until July 2021. Good for my ego but still, not sure if it's good for my sanity. Flattering all the same.
The college was a strange one today, my private student wasn't in but I wasn't told, so spent an hour jamming to Joe Jackson songs by myself, before running a wonderful and frantic drum club.
Private lesson followed (fine) and then spent the evening packing ahead of our move later in the month.
Took Mum shopping and then my least favourite school messaged. I've quit - had done a while ago, agreeing to stay until the summer, but, having interviewed my potential replacements, they've come back to me asking what it would take for me to stay. I was a bit of a diva in my response, listing everything that I think is wrong (the size of the music room, the aggression of certain students, the lack of performance opportunities, the hours) with suggestions to rectify this. They agreed to all of it, and offered a pay-rise on top, within the hour. It's not about the money. I've now agreed to stay until July 2021. Good for my ego but still, not sure if it's good for my sanity. Flattering all the same.
The college was a strange one today, my private student wasn't in but I wasn't told, so spent an hour jamming to Joe Jackson songs by myself, before running a wonderful and frantic drum club.
Private lesson followed (fine) and then spent the evening packing ahead of our move later in the month.
Tuesday 3rd March 2020
I think I need to shake things up a bit in my 'favourite' school; I just get the sense that the kids are getting a little bored. It's a fine line...they have to get the basics right (and some of them struggle with this) but it has to still be exciting. I'll work out an action plan. Or, I'm just thinking about it too much.
Three private lessons followed (first one: great, second one: restless, third one: fine) and then late, late FH rehearsal. Worth it, because we're mega tight, but still, I'll struggle tomorrow morning as it's an early one.
Three private lessons followed (first one: great, second one: restless, third one: fine) and then late, late FH rehearsal. Worth it, because we're mega tight, but still, I'll struggle tomorrow morning as it's an early one.
Monday 2nd March 2020
Had a lovely, productive day. The school this morning was fine, obligatory one kid off sick but easy enough - everyone gets it.
Lengthy gap in the afternoon; one student off on holiday, another sick, another going to fortnightly lessons as she can't always afford it, which meant I had an unusual amount of free time. Used it wisely; cashed in lesson payments (because, as much as it niggles me, many still pay me in cash), got a haircut (barely a haircut, just a snip, but that's the best kind), bought a couple shirts, that sort of thing.
Got back, wrote for a couple of hours and then taught three lovely lessons where everyone was on good form. An unusually relaxed day.
Lengthy gap in the afternoon; one student off on holiday, another sick, another going to fortnightly lessons as she can't always afford it, which meant I had an unusual amount of free time. Used it wisely; cashed in lesson payments (because, as much as it niggles me, many still pay me in cash), got a haircut (barely a haircut, just a snip, but that's the best kind), bought a couple shirts, that sort of thing.
Got back, wrote for a couple of hours and then taught three lovely lessons where everyone was on good form. An unusually relaxed day.
Sunday, 1 March 2020
Sunday 1st March 2020
Woke up feeling happy; West End run done, film version on the way, some nice band gigs coming up, house move impending, wedding getting nearer.
Taught four very lovely lessons today, all very different but all with students WANTING to learn and it works well.
Home by 6pm, awesome meal with A (I'm marrying a brilliant cook...), a couple glasses of wine and a little writing of new ideas. We're all good. Next week looks...a bit dull, to be honest, but that's possibly needed.
Taught four very lovely lessons today, all very different but all with students WANTING to learn and it works well.
Home by 6pm, awesome meal with A (I'm marrying a brilliant cook...), a couple glasses of wine and a little writing of new ideas. We're all good. Next week looks...a bit dull, to be honest, but that's possibly needed.
Saturday 29th February 2020
The parents of my students all understood, totally, why I cancelled today's four lessons. They don't want a knackered drum teacher. It can all wait till next week.
Really enjoyed my sleep, just a total recharge of the batteries. 10 hours of recharge.
Potted around the house, replied to a few emails, had a long bath and then A and myself headed in to London early to get a nice meal with Alan and to chill out a bit before the show.
Not being arrogant or anything, but the show was fucking amazing tonight. Best it's ever been, apart from maybe the night in Wales. Everyone onside from the off, big audience including many old friends (a few of them unexpected), some people who saw the show in Edinburgh and wanted to see it again, a couple who couldn't see it in Edinburgh as it sold out. Everyone got it, I gave them a frenetic display and I feel good about this one again now.
Had a few drinks with friends afterwards and then the long train home. Great, great night.
Really enjoyed my sleep, just a total recharge of the batteries. 10 hours of recharge.
Potted around the house, replied to a few emails, had a long bath and then A and myself headed in to London early to get a nice meal with Alan and to chill out a bit before the show.
Not being arrogant or anything, but the show was fucking amazing tonight. Best it's ever been, apart from maybe the night in Wales. Everyone onside from the off, big audience including many old friends (a few of them unexpected), some people who saw the show in Edinburgh and wanted to see it again, a couple who couldn't see it in Edinburgh as it sold out. Everyone got it, I gave them a frenetic display and I feel good about this one again now.
Had a few drinks with friends afterwards and then the long train home. Great, great night.
Friday 28th February 2020
Slightly frustrating morning at favourite school, mostly because the kids recently had an assembly from a new guitar teacher (who is a friend of mine, I got him the job) and suddenly they all want to learn guitar instead of drums. Idiots. I shouldn't have to be convincing 6-year-olds that my instrument is the best.
Over to regular school where it felt much better; it was a lovely two hours.
Dash home, dropped off car and then mad dash to London for the second HG performance. Similar audience size, a few friends, a few strangers, slightly underwhelming performance but more laughter tonight.
On the train back I realised just how exhausted I feel; this show is tough at the best of times, let alone the pressure of big lights, a bigger stage, sales reports and having to work a full day (and then travel) beforehand. Cancelled all of tomorrow's lessons, I feel like I'm on the edge.
Over to regular school where it felt much better; it was a lovely two hours.
Dash home, dropped off car and then mad dash to London for the second HG performance. Similar audience size, a few friends, a few strangers, slightly underwhelming performance but more laughter tonight.
On the train back I realised just how exhausted I feel; this show is tough at the best of times, let alone the pressure of big lights, a bigger stage, sales reports and having to work a full day (and then travel) beforehand. Cancelled all of tomorrow's lessons, I feel like I'm on the edge.
Thursday 27th February 2020
Bit annoyed that the Oxford promoter has said that HG was "too intense" for her audience, she's paid me for it, but isn't keen on more. Not sure what she was expecting? People seemed to enjoy it at the time, it is intense but that's kinda the point of it. Let's just leave that there.
Morning spent at least favourite school, which was its usual chaotic self; kids being aggressive, not listening and staff generally being unhelpful. Three hours, no progress made, just an awful waste of everyone's time.
Got a Maccy-D's to calm myself down, this is becoming a bad habit.
Off to London, early tech rehearsal for the 3-night run. Alan M is a total joy to work with, he's a mate first and foremost and he works the desk like a legend. The venue is great, run by wonderful people. Despite advance sales of just 7, we had 22 in tonight, which wasn't the end of the world. Audience smiled a lot but it felt flat in places, performance was 'fine'. Friends in the audience afterwards told me in the bar how amazing it was but I don't believe them.
Morning spent at least favourite school, which was its usual chaotic self; kids being aggressive, not listening and staff generally being unhelpful. Three hours, no progress made, just an awful waste of everyone's time.
Got a Maccy-D's to calm myself down, this is becoming a bad habit.
Off to London, early tech rehearsal for the 3-night run. Alan M is a total joy to work with, he's a mate first and foremost and he works the desk like a legend. The venue is great, run by wonderful people. Despite advance sales of just 7, we had 22 in tonight, which wasn't the end of the world. Audience smiled a lot but it felt flat in places, performance was 'fine'. Friends in the audience afterwards told me in the bar how amazing it was but I don't believe them.
Wednesday 26th February 2020
Up early for regular school, which was lovely - it's pretty much my home, that place, I used to go there, I spend a lot of time there.
Took Mum shopping and, well, it's all getting worrying. Developments and all that, that isn't for a blog. I need to be about more, I think.
The college was great afterwards, both the private lesson and drum club - I'm just totally accepted, I fit in and the kids really get it.
Two private lessons followed, both fine, not huge progress but enough enthusiasm to suggest they're still enjoying it.
Got back, rehearsed my lines for a final time ahead of tomorrow's London opener.
Took Mum shopping and, well, it's all getting worrying. Developments and all that, that isn't for a blog. I need to be about more, I think.
The college was great afterwards, both the private lesson and drum club - I'm just totally accepted, I fit in and the kids really get it.
Two private lessons followed, both fine, not huge progress but enough enthusiasm to suggest they're still enjoying it.
Got back, rehearsed my lines for a final time ahead of tomorrow's London opener.
Tuesday 25th February 2020
I need to be grateful, I know that. Three years ago today I was nearing the end of my worst 'stand-up' tour ever, it was just horrific (and financially/mentally draining) (I really should write a book about it at some point)
These days I'm mega comfy; amazing fiancee, about to move into a huge house together, hit show, sable career doing something I don't mind, even if the hours are a bit much sometime. I think it's the hours and the lack of fear that's troubling me at the moment, but the fear the fear is something that is quickly returning as ticket sales for the London performances this week are nothing short of appalling.
Long day at favourite school, followed by school assembly concert where they all did me proud, it was so much better than last time.
Three private lessons followed (first one: brilliant, second one: dragged, third one: brilliant) and then over to Jonny's house for a house performance of HG. He's the director of the film version and he invited a load of filmy-types over to watch it (lighting designers, that sort of thing). It went well, former Blue Peter presenter, Liz, was there too and loved it. We had a long chat afterwards and she's agreed to be in the movie.
Top night all round, I feel like a success this evening.
These days I'm mega comfy; amazing fiancee, about to move into a huge house together, hit show, sable career doing something I don't mind, even if the hours are a bit much sometime. I think it's the hours and the lack of fear that's troubling me at the moment, but the fear the fear is something that is quickly returning as ticket sales for the London performances this week are nothing short of appalling.
Long day at favourite school, followed by school assembly concert where they all did me proud, it was so much better than last time.
Three private lessons followed (first one: brilliant, second one: dragged, third one: brilliant) and then over to Jonny's house for a house performance of HG. He's the director of the film version and he invited a load of filmy-types over to watch it (lighting designers, that sort of thing). It went well, former Blue Peter presenter, Liz, was there too and loved it. We had a long chat afterwards and she's agreed to be in the movie.
Top night all round, I feel like a success this evening.
Monday 24th February 2020
...and we're back into the schools/teaching craziness after a week 'off'.
With the house move and wedding impending, it's knuckle-down time and putting in plenty of hours; morning school was fine - they're onside, the kids are bright and it worked well.
6 private lessons followed (first one: awesome, second one: such fun, third one: brilliant, fourth one: kid too distracted, fifth one: clearly running out of ideas, sixth one: fine).
Got back, reworked a few of the lines that have been dragging in the HG show, stressed about them for a bit and went to sleep feeling frustrated.
With the house move and wedding impending, it's knuckle-down time and putting in plenty of hours; morning school was fine - they're onside, the kids are bright and it worked well.
6 private lessons followed (first one: awesome, second one: such fun, third one: brilliant, fourth one: kid too distracted, fifth one: clearly running out of ideas, sixth one: fine).
Got back, reworked a few of the lines that have been dragging in the HG show, stressed about them for a bit and went to sleep feeling frustrated.
Sunday 23rd February 2020
How is this half-term over already? I had such big plans for it, such as write two shows and a book. How have I ended up with no writing time whatsoever, apart from snatching the odd moment here and there?
Anyway, today taught just the three private lessons and then looked at furniture for the new house with A. We argued about the fact that I'm not arguing about it...I've never had an opinion about colour schemes and that sort of thing. She does, happy to go along with it. The move is exciting, though.
Wrote and submitted my Edinburgh Fringe programme blurb, invoiced the venues where I've performed recently, replied to about 8 million emails, updated my school registers with new students and dozed off.
Anyway, today taught just the three private lessons and then looked at furniture for the new house with A. We argued about the fact that I'm not arguing about it...I've never had an opinion about colour schemes and that sort of thing. She does, happy to go along with it. The move is exciting, though.
Wrote and submitted my Edinburgh Fringe programme blurb, invoiced the venues where I've performed recently, replied to about 8 million emails, updated my school registers with new students and dozed off.
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