What this Semester has (really) Meant to Me

For our final assignment, part of our written journal was to explain what this semester has meant, and what we've learned. Technically, I've learned lots. I had never really touched recording equipment before, or even ProTools. Most of the theory learned was just jogging my memory (thanks to my former piano teacher!), although I did learn some new things. But I guess I've learned a few things I didn't mention in the report..

I've learned who I can work with, and who I can't- or rather, what personality traits get on my nerves the most! I've learned that when a group of people share a passion, there is always a connection. And I've learned that being away from home is really, really hard.

I'm getting what I wanted out of being here. I wanted an opportunity to find my love for music again. and I have. It's not easy to live on the other side of the world of places you happily call home, and this makes it hard to feel like I'm making the right decision by being here. But a couple weeks ago I was at the bluesfest downtown and the girl I was standing next to stared up at the sax player and said, "God I miss music."

I can't even begin to count the number of times I said that in Toronto. So I guess I've also learned that for now, this is where I should be. I don't know how long "now" is, but today, and this moment, I owe music to myself.

So! I have three songs for you. I won't explain what they're about, because one speaker once said, "Music shouldn't have a note." If a song can't be understood in some way by just the music, it's not good enough. I shouldn't have to explain the song, so take them how you will!


I Wanna Know

This is my least favorite of the three. Over time and after learning more about my voice and different sounds and grooves, I've decided there's lots I would do differently.  But, I hope you enjoy anyway, and maybe I'll re-track some things if I get the time.

Northern Lights

I wrote this with my friend Leah. I don't have any audible contribution to this! But I mixed most of it and tried to focus on the sounds I was hearing rather than giving. (She's great, isn't she?) :)

Leah: http://www.myspace.com/leahtharlai

Some Love to Spare

One of the first songs I wrote after moving here. Josh Lovegrove was my producer. He sang the male harmony in the chorus, and played guitar. (He's also pretty damn good)

Josh: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Josh-Lovegrove/160105477383377


For the folio we also had to have artwork for front and back. My photographer unfortunately isn't as keen as she once was! So I took pictures of my own. First is my album cover (without text), and the second is my back album art, again, no text. The rest were just options that I thought came out half decent.

If you're reading this and helped me get through this first semester, thanks! (that's pretty much everyone ;) )