December ...

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I attended the Ipswich Art Awards in November and was inspired by the musical band playing. The music downstairs and the art displayed upstairs were so separated though - and felt at odds to each other. 

After that night, I suggested that I could do some music for the opening of ArtsConnect's "Off the Wall" exhibition in the Ipswich Community Gallery. 

"Off the Wall" ran from 12 to 21 December.  Over 40 local Ipswich-based artists and craftspeople showcased their work. The exhibition included paintings, woodwork, glass artworks, photography, mixed-media and craft works. Almost all artworks were for sale, including work by award winning artists.

I put together some music that I thought would be in sync with the art. I chose some easy jazz/blues/funk backing tracks that I could improvise around, using my guitar playing to change the dynamics of the music during the opening event. The attendees were very encouraging and the project was a great afternoon. 

I subsequently played the same sort of musical interlude in the ArtsConnect community gallery in the Booval Fair shopping centre.  There was appreciation of the musical accompaniment enhancing the art atmosphere. 

I’m continuing this idea and looking to integrate these improvisations within my standard music shows.

Some more songs were played on US independent radio in December, which is encouraging.  

I'm looking forward to enjoying 2026, whatever it might bring ...

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