What's been going on, where I'm playing, new ventures, and relevant articles which may be of interest to the community - it's all here. Feel free to explore, and as always, I would love to hear from you!
Recently, I took part in Village Music Circle drum facilitation training at Wooden Roots in Suffolk. What stood out immediately was the diversity of people involved — individuals from a wide range of backgrounds coming together through a shared interest in rhythm and connection. Being involved in the circle itself and not always leading the activity (as is a more usual position I find myself in) was a powerful reminder of how accessible and immediate music-making can be.
A resounding success for the first ever Sing#Inn, the day after St. Patrick's Day! Deacons, on Fisherton Street in Salisbury saw 30+ locals joining in harmony during vocal activities and a 3 part arrangement of Whiskey In The Jar.
I absolutely adore the chance to talk all things geek, so I relished the chance to chat with fellow educator Mimi Munro on Episode 5 of her podcast. Tune in to hear us discuss musical and pedagogical beginnings, my research into entrainment, the importance of quality musical experiences during early childhood, and what the future of music education in the UK may hold.
Why Pre-School Preludes with Asta#Plays?
Delighted to inform you that there are 2 dates in the diary for Sing#Inn sessions, coming up in March and April!
The first sessions at a care home close to Salisbury seem to be going well, according to the media! I am visiting the home fortnightly, and having done just a few sessions so far, it's lovely to get to know some of the regular attendees. I must say, I'm mostly incredibly jealous of the fact that they have the option of wine with lunch!
I am incredibly excited to announce that Sing#Inn will be coming to Salisbury in the near future! After crawling around several pubs in the soggy, wet, historic town, some of those renowned for supporting musical ventures have been in touch.
Those of us in the know, know, and have been advocating for years. For those of you still experimenting, why not consider joining one of the community events soon to be on offer from Asta#Plays?
There have been many things going on in Salisbury, including a huge amount of networking and checking out venues in which Asta#Plays can run community events.
After 14 years abroad during which I had the pleasure of teaching, training, singing, and playing in countless locations around the world, I have landed back in the UK. Technically I "landed" in August, but this month has been a significant step forward in terms of locating a base, and being able to start the ball rolling in the historic city of Salisbury.
Having completed my MA in Music Psychology in Performance, Education, and Wellbeing last July (with Distinction!), I dared to imagine that others would find my research interesting. My efforts have paid off, and I am now the author of a published article in the International Journal of Music, Health and Wellbeing.
