February brought lots of rehearsals on cello - with March being the month of concerts. But there was plenty going on around all the practise room work! Each Tuesday and Wednesday brought rehearsals on my newest compositions in particular.
Wednesday 1st: I played to a panel of BBC National Orchestra of Wales cellists - always great to hear feedback from colleagues!
Sunday 5th: an amazing opportunity to watch the world-famous Cory Band play in concert - a huge amount of virtuosity and showmanship on display. The British brass band is a fascinating ensemble. I have a couple of works for brass band lined up and hopefully they will come to life later this year.
Thursday 9th: I auditioned for a new music group run by Julian Leeks called SoundWorld, in Bristol, and I was offered the cellist role, in doing so becoming a Founder Member of the ensemble. I look forward very much to working with them. As I always say, playing new music does wonders for your own composition, arranging, conducting, and even engraving skills.
Sunday 19th: another gig with Welsh National Opera, playing their successful children's concerts. Not often you get to stand up on stage as part of a professional orchestra and roar loudly at the audience!
Monday 27th: I played to another panel of cellists, this time from the City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra. I haven't been to Brum since I played at the Town Hall about fifteen years ago!