Why Blog?

Six months ago I began pondering the idea of a blog focusing specifically on Australian new music - it seemed like an interesting and fun project to embark upon. So after months of procrastination I've finally entered the blogging world.

And what an exciting world this is. Not only am I able to publish my writing immediately, but also people all over the world can read what I write. And even if no one actually cares, I can dwell in the satisfying illusion that I have a captive audience. Hmm...this could be addictive.

But ego aside, curiosity is actually what draws me to blogging - I want to learn more about music. The new music scene in Australia is growing rapidly and includes a diverse range of genres such as contemporary classical, experimental, electroacoustic, jazz, noise, sound art, sound installation and more. By discussing gigs, concerts, new works, CDs and books, I hope to explore different perspectives on these types of music as well as deepen my understanding about the aesthetics, philosophies and ideas associated with the art form.

Scribbling ideas into a tattered notebook - as I have done for many years - simply doesn't have the same effect. Writing in a public space forces me to be more critical of my own thinking (Yes, it comes back to the self-indulgent idea that someone might actually read what you are writing). But it does more than this: it also opens the possibility of dialogue. And discussion is a crucial aspect of an artistic community – it inspires, challenges and builds confidence, which in turn allows the art form to grow.

Last year I edited an issue of Sounds Australian devoted to examining some documentary processes surrounding new music in Australia. I argued that we - as an artistic community - need to be talking much more about our music. I guess this blog is finally a response to my own criticism of our community - I'm finally practicing what I was preaching!

While I am primarily driven by a passion for new music (and indeed writing itself), I am quite excited by the idea that others - who might share my interests - will be eager to engage with my writing by offering their views and opinions.

How often I post is yet to be seen. I do know, however, that I aim to use this blog as a place to explore different styles of writing: reviews, interviews, exploratory essays, features etc. So stay tuned!