2021

After an unusual year, to say the least, I am looking forward to some very exciting projects for 2021.

First, LDG is doing a recording in mid-December. I am thrilled to be working with my long-time colleagues and friends Helen Russell (bs) and Paul Hudson (dr), and to feature the incomparable James Sandon (t.sax) and rising star Lachlan McKenzie (tpt) on 10 of my original compositions. The tunes range from a swing tune I wrote about 15 years ago to a choro finished a few months ago.We'll be launching the CD in April at the Brisbane Jazz Club and on the Sunny and Gold Coasts. Really looking forward to both process and the product!

Secondly, in June, my colleague Jan Black (libretto, creative director) and I will finally see our collaborative work, the Cooktown Cantata, come to life! Originally scheduled for the Cooktown Discovery Festival in July of this year, this unique project celebrates the life of botanical artist and activist Vera Scarth-Johnson, and her connection to the people and country of Cooktown. It features classical vocalists Margaret Schindler and Jeffrey Black, and Indigenous singer/songwriter Derek Rosendale, and a 6-piece ensemble. Writing the score has been a wonderful challenge and learning experience for me, and I await the rehearsal and production period later this year with great anticipation. Watch out for performances at the Judith Wright Centre in Brisbane and Natures Powerhouse in Cooktown.

In the meanwhile, I will be gigging here and there - notably in Tasmania in January/February, and then back in Brisbane and surrounds in MarchApril/May. And finally, Denson/Baartz Quartet are planning a follow up recording after the very enjoyable experience of putting together Dark Sky in 2018/19. So stay tuned! Lots of great music going to happen in the next 8 months!