Are Drummers Musicians?

Ann Blackburn is our special guest this week, a full-time oboist with the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra (MSO). Ann was very generous to share so much with us, and I learnt a lot in this conversation. We dive further into the classic music scene as Ann shares about life as an orchestral musician, its pros and cons, practice and performances, ‘winning a job’, study, comradery, and even reed-making. Ann has had a prolific career, performing with essentially all major Australian professional orchestras, the Australian and Victorian Operas, and worked internationally with orchestras and her chamber group, including in Germany, New Zealand and Malaysia. She has held the second oboe chair with the MSO since 2013. For more information and links to videos of Ann teaching reed making basics and playing, visit our website: https://www.aredrummersmusicians.com/conversations/annblackburn

This is a fun and philosophical chat with composer and piano accompanist Tim Mallis, as we dive into his experiences, perspectives and unique roles. Tim draws on his various experiences with the Australian and Victorian Operas, Melbourne Symphony Orchestra, Australian Boys Choir, and work as a freelance accompanist and composer to ask and answer many, many questions; What is AI doing to the music industry? What does a surtitlist do at the opera? Do you think about the audience when you make music? How much influence does an accompanist have? Do fish actually dream because their eyes don’t blink? Listen to find out more. Visit our website for links to Tim's website, music, videos, pictures and more here: https://www.aredrummersmusicians.com/conversations/timmallis

Full of life, laughs and wisdom, this chat with singer, DJ and producer Amber Ferraro was a great time! She’s doing great things as lead vocalist of her band, Honey, and with the Sunshine and Disco Faith Choir, and rapidly reached success as a DJ, with a regular local residency at One Six One nightclub and performances supporting international acts including Luuk Van Dyke, Kolter, and DJ Koze. Join us as we chat about her music, recordings, performances, bands, DJing, and creating a special experience with Crozier called Silhouette. For music, photos, clips and more about Amber, head to our webiste: https://www.aredrummersmusicians.com/conversations/amberferraro

This week we are speaking with Peter Carolane; keys and organ player, session musician, bandleader and co-founder of new record label, North Fitzroy Records. We chat about lots, from Peter’s journey with music, life at the Melbourne Con in the 90s, performance and academic pursuits, playing contemporary music and developing a passion for recording and production. This was a fun chat with Peter before he went on a short tour of China and Japan with Tamas Wells, and we got to chat about the records he’s been making with his band The Anti-Fall Movement too. For pictures, links, music, and more, head to our website: https://www.aredrummersmusicians.com/conversations/petercarolane

Join us for a chat with Elliot Lamb - a talented trombonist, vocalist, and composer. We cover a lot of ground, discussing their journey with music, developing a sound and place in the local scene, co-running the Jazzlab Orchestra, getting commissioned for a composition and the struggles and triumphs that process which led to their suite, ‘Between Worlds.’ Ellie is a regular presence in the local jazz scene as well as having performed at all major jazz festivals here and worked in various jazz-adjacent and contemporary music contexts. An old friend and special human, I had a great time catching up with them and hope you enjoy this conversation too. For links to their music and instagram, visit out website here.

Today's conversation features the legendary drummer Tony Floyd, one of the most sought-after drummer/percussionists in Australia. Tony's extensive list of collaborations includes work with Men at Work, The Black Sorrows, Things of Stone and Wood, Kate Ceberano, The Eurogliders, Deborah Conway, Gurrumul, Missy Higgins, Vince Jones, Renee Geyer, and he has also backed internationally renowned figures like Hugh Jackman, Joe Chindamo, Eartha Kitt, and Lee Konitz. Join us as we delve into Tony's musical journey, explore his remarkable achievements and discuss his enduring passion for music. For links to clips of Floydy drumming and more podcast info, visit our welbsite: https://www.aredrummersmusicians.com/conversations/tonyfloyd/

Join us today as we sit down with singer and guitarist Paul Davies. We quickly dive into a gear chat rabbit hole, where Paul shares his passion for vintage Gibson guitars, details his quest for the perfect instrument, and provides a comprehensive rig rundown. Alongside gear talk, Paul discusses his musical fulfilment, various projects, and collaborations. He also highlights his recent venture—a tribute act dedicated to music icons—that has been captivating audiences and selling out performances. We'll delve into their past successes and look ahead to upcoming shows. For more details, links and videos of Paul, head to our website: https://www.aredrummersmusicians.com/conversations/pauldavies

There were lots of laughs this week on the podcast with emerging drummer, Jude Harris. They discuss his influences, studying at the VCA, bands, studio work, and even his recent adventure being the drum technician (‘drum tech’) for the legendary Graham Bidstrup (‘Buzz’) from GANGgajang. Don’t miss this deep dive into the journey of a young musician navigating the vibrant Melbourne/Naarm music scene and beyond. For more information visit our website: https://www.aredrummersmusicians.com/interviews/judeharris

This is special for me to have Luci Floyd on the podcast as she’s been very supportive of this endeavour, and she is a talented bass player and vocalist, with a lot of experience! I love hearing her talk about her thoughts and experiences, so tune in for a great chat as Luci shares her journey with music and finding her own place in the Melbourne scene. Join us as we discuss her band ‘Gush’, recording, gigging, playing with other acts, her bass collection, how she got started and more! For more information and links to the music videos we discuss, visit our website: https://www.aredrummersmusicians.com/interviews/lucifloyd

Join us as we sit down with Greg Arnold, the ARIA award-winning force behind the iconic Australian folk-rock band, Things of Stone and Wood. Greg wrote the top ten hit "Happy Birthday Helen," radio favourite "Wildflowers," and the two top ten albums, The Yearning and Junk Theatre. Celebrated as the Australian Songwriter of the Year by APRA in 1993, Greg's influence now spans over thirty years. His work, renowned for its melodic depth, rich harmonies, and poignant lyrics, is described by him as "acoustic horsepower pop." An accomplished producer, academic, and author, Greg continues to resonate deeply with audiences around the globe. Dive into our conversation as we explore the layers of Greg’s illustrious career, from chart-topping hits to his profound insights on songwriting and the evolving music landscape.

Join us for a captivating exploration of the music scene in Melbourne/Naarm. Hosted by drummer Luke Singleton, the podcast showcases the city's diverse talent - from established to emerging artists and session musicians. Subscribe to join the conversation and become part of our music-loving community. Don’t miss an episode—immerse yourself in the world of musicians with us.