Clothes!
A very important part of being a performer is clothing and I always try to dress appropriately for any occasion at which I'm playing, whether it's background music for a wedding or an outfit for an orchestral concert. This isn't as straightforward as it may seem as a harpist! Add to that the fact that I loathe clothes shopping and lose interest after 20 minutes and it's a potential cocktail for stress. There are several factors I have to consider, the main one being comfort and ease of movement. I could spend a considerable amount of money buying smart functional gear, and we musicians aren't generally renowned for our wealth! I have lately become a huge supporter of a budget high street store that will remain nameless and I visit at every opportunity for a 20 minute trawl. Due to its affordable prices I am able to experiment with different styles that I wouldn't have considered before. I am venturing more and more towards colour and pattern. A recent highlight is the dress pictured, and yes, the price tag says it all. I'm not sure I can play in it yet (where there's a will there's a way) but at that price I will find an occasion to wear it, though maybe not to go out clubbing! Book me now to see it "live" (on a harpist with a great sense of humour!)