What can I, or should I say about myself? We all know that most of these bios, though written in the third person, are actually written by the musician-at least us struggling ones, so here goes. An amazing talent, the most exciting and profound songwriter to hit the scene since...........nah, frig it.
Here's what I know about me. I've been writing down little stories and poems for as long as I can remember - as a kid, in a diary with kittens and butterflies on the cover and a gold lock on the side. Later, on coffee shop napkins, bar coasters, and cigarette packages. A couple of years ago, I started turning some of these random thoughts into songs. I feel alive when I write, sing, play. I am forever fascinated by the elusive process of turning stories that are intimate and personal into something accessible and understandable to others. Some are autobiographical (not the one with the gun), some are cathartic (the one with the gun), some are just what they are. What are the themes that unite us as humans? There really are only a handful that become the stories to tell of any one life, but it is in the telling that there is understanding, empathy, and connection. Metaphor. Are our personal stories history or mythology? Does it matter?
After playing around campfires and kitchens for years, I played out for the first time a couple of years ago. Even though at first it was an absolutely terrifying experience, I loved it, and at once only wanted to get back up on stage and do it again, kinda like a scary amusement park ride. Being able to play and elicit a response from listeners, to connect, to get back what I put out is amazing to me. I am always thankful for the gift of those moments.
PERFORMANCE HIGHLIGHTS:
1986 - 2007 WINNIPEG FOLK FESTIVAL - well, in the campground at least, in one form of artistic expression and performance or another, including but not limited to interpretive dance.
2005 Shared the stage with EMMYLOU HARRIS (on the mainstage of the WFF during the Sunday night finale). So technically, a true statement. I like to think that she was harmonizing with me, and I did get to meet her afterwards!!!
2005 - 2007 ACADEMY BAR AND EATERY, Winnipeg
2005, 2006, 2007 WEST END CULTURAL CENTRE, Winnipeg
2006, 2007 PARK THEATRE, Winnipeg
2005- 2007 SOLID GROUND ARTS AND COFFEE ROOM, Lorette,MB
2006, 2007 HARVEST SUN CAFE, Kelwood, MB
2006 TROUT FOREST MUSIC FESTIVAL, Ear Falls, ON
2006, 2007 HARVEST SUN MUSIC FESTIVAL, Kelwood, MB
2007 WATSON ART CENTRE CONCERT SERIES, Dauphin, MB
