Artist in Residency – Day 6 @ Lochmara Lodge

Chickens, Tui, pigs….I can hear them all from the studio where I’ll be staying for the next two weeks at Lochmara Lodge. I can also see the ocean, the beautiful Marlborough Sounds with its soft misty mornings, clam waters, and green hills. Every morning before I start flute-work, I’ll be writing about my day ahead, and the day past, as well as sharing photos.

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Day 6, Sunday. Yup…still Easter…and loads of little rabbits are running around, none covered in chocolate. In fact there’s nothing Cadbury in sight! Thank Jesus.

The ‘stillness’ and silence from yesterday carries on into this wonderful calm morning. The lodge is expecting to be very busy, with people running around after the guests – for me, this is a great time to be in my studio listening and recording. Although I might need a break from all the flute stuff, I realize I don’t have much else to put my interest into…so…what shall be will be.

Oh, I also spent last night launching our simply flute guidebook, Enchanted Beginnings, onto Amazon.com This is a small yet excellent guide for those starting on the flute, and one will find it a great stepping stone into our comprehensive book, Enchanted Journeys. Check it out on Amazon.com 

Some thoughts from yesterday, Saturday. Finding inspiration for improvising new melodies can strike one at any moment. Here I was feeling frustrated by a lack of new ideas when this one gentle crept up on me. You know the feeling?

I opened a music book and found a song called Syrian Song. The title had a sadness to it, and after playing a short while I felt I had the notes for my next improvisation piece. Back to my bush hut I went…

Of course the sadness of the music begged for some backing sounds. Then it started raining. Perfect! And the creek outside provided more soft ambiance. And the chirping Fantail helped bring lightness to the song. The final recording takes me to many potential places. Where does it take you?

Played on this E minor Walnut Love Flute.
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