On September 23, I had the privilege of participating in the Volume Festival at the Art Gallery New South Wales, where I performed a concert amidst an atmosphere of creativity and expression. The afternoon was truly remarkable, heightened by the captivating performance of Sampa the Great, who headlined the event. Performing within the gallery’s walls provided a luxurious and cathartic experience, resonating deeply with the emotions often evoked during improvisational sessions.

In the realm of live performances, there exists a unique interplay of factors that influence the artist’s journey. From the accumulation of sound waves in a space to the invaluable support of venue personnel, each interaction shapes the artist’s experience and ultimately, their performance. It’s a process often misunderstood, with distractions, entourage, and troublesome ego mistakenly perceived as assets. Yet, the reality of live settings involves navigating the possibility of playing the wrong notes or applying the wrong chord progressions, all while striving to maintain a connection with the audience.

Solo concerts, like the one I had the opportunity to perform at Volume, offer a canvas for exploration, allowing for the utilization of various tonal centers while ensuring the audience remains engaged. It’s a delicate balance, where the pursuit of musical innovation must be tempered with an awareness of audience receptivity. Through each live performance, I aim to weave together musical ideas that resonate both with myself and those listening, understanding that overthinking can detract from the authenticity and spontaneity of the experience.

Following my performance at AGNSW, I was overwhelmed by the outpouring of support on my Instagram feed—photos, videos, and messages of encouragement from individuals I may never meet in person. This digital affirmation underscores the profound impact of technology on artistic validation, prompting reflection on how artists once gauged the significance of their work without such immediate feedback.

Regardless of the level of recognition or the number of connections made through music, I remain committed to approaching my craft with the same fervor and humility as a novice guitarist. For me, creating music is more than just a personal pursuit; it’s a means of serving humanity and fostering connections that transcend boundaries.

In the ever-evolving landscape of artistic expression, festivals like Volume serve as vital platforms for collaboration, experimentation, and shared experiences. As I continue on this musical journey, I am grateful for the opportunities to connect with audiences, both near and far, and to cultivate moments of sound and vision that resonate deeply with the human spirit.