The last few months have been a constant whirlwind of excitement, triumphs and big dreams. I completed The Nature Of Light national tour; was nominated for and awarded Best Jazz Album for The Nature Of Light at the 2017 The Age Music Victoria Awards; and, today was honoured to have been announced as the PBS FM Young Elder Of Jazz for 2018.
It really has been a remarkable time.
But these achievements do not happen on their own. Moreover, my achievements don’t happen without the support, belief and contributions of many other people. Their roles in my success aren’t recognised by awards, or announced in press releases, or emblazoned on posters sticky taped to light posts.
The saying “it takes a village to raise a child” is particularly relevant to me as an artist (not just for my boy-ish good looks). It really does take an enormous community to support an artist. And the contributions range across the whole lifespan of my work.
So, who are these remarkable people.
I want to personally thank some folks that have made what I do possible.
(WARNING: The next little bit is pretty long – I thank a whole lot of people – you can skip to the — if you prefer).
Firstly, without hesitation, thank you to my wife for allowing me the privilege to follow my dreams. Not only does Samantha support me in all I do, she also helped me at my lowest point as an artist. Without her, I would not be where I am today, no question.
To my wonderful bandmates who have contributed so much of themselves in playing my music. I’m constantly astounded at how brilliant they are and pinch myself that I’m fortunate enough to work with them and share their friendship. I’ve been lucky enough to be joined by:
- Tom Jovanovic, Ed Fairley, Nic Ryan-Glenie (trumpet)
- Gideon Brazil (saxophone)
- Nick Pietsch, Chris Vizard, James Macauley (trombone) and Des Cannings (in NSW)
- Jordan Tarento, Marty Holoubek and Tom Lee (double bass)
- Aaron McCoullough (drums)
These guys have all played my music without much in the way of payment for their time and talents.
Melbourne’s incredible community radio has been a huge help. Super special mention obviously goes to PBS, who prior to the honour of the Young Elder Of Jazz had The Nature Of Light as a Feature Record earlier this year. In addition, they were the first station to play Two Cities – special mentions to Chelsea Wilson (Jazz Got Soul) and Ross Nable (Impressions) who have been particularly supportive. Also, to David Moyle at Joy FM (Bent Notes) and to Tom at Oak FM (Jazz And Other Sounds) who have offered great encouragement. Also to Mal Stanley and Jessica Nicholas at ABC Jazz.
To Melbourne’s record stores, particularly Alley Tunes (in Hawthorn) and Wax Museum (CBD). In addition, Wolfie’s Records and Clarity Records (both in Adelaide). These stores (and more) have all introduced the album to so many new ears!
Melbourne is blessed with a live music scene that rivals anywhere in the world – I would say it beats most places. There are so many great jazz clubs in Melbourne. I want to particularly thank Michael Tortoni at Jazz Lab in Brunswick who has been incredibly supportive of myself and other young artists. I also want to acknowledge Liz and Serge at Paris Cat Jazz Club and Megg at Bennetts Lane.
The Melbourne Jazz Festival(s) – Stonnington and it’s bigger, international, sister. Thanks to Chelsea for helping me launch The Nature Of Light at this year’s Stonnington Jazz Festival and thanks to Michael, Melanie Pose and all the team at Melbourne International Jazz Festival for featuring me.
To my whole network of family and friends who constantly listen to my dreams, my anxieties, my successes and failures and help me get through each of them.
AND.. Perhaps most importantly, to YOU! Without your support I would not be able to do what I do. I have been very touched by the huge amount of messages I have received congratulating me on my award. I feel inspired to continue to work hard to create new music so that I may share it with you.
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So… that turned into an ARIA Hall-of-Fame induction-length speech. Sorry about that. But as you can see, there are so many people that go into helping any artist. And the names listed above have all been helpful to me. There are so many incredible artists in this city and this country that have equally long lists, with whole other worlds of contributors.
It takes a village to raise an artist.
Thanks so much for reading this. If you’d like to be part of what I’m doing, please join my mailing list.
xx
Brenton
