But I've been told that it's going to happen. "If you don't make it, then there is no hope for the rest of us" is something that has been said to me. I don't think of myself as hugely talented, but people seem to think that I am and I've had some amazing opportunities thrown my way. Opportunities that have got me recognised. Before Christmas I was downtown in the amazing town that is Worthing, and as I was waiting for a lift from my regular taxi service (a.k.a. Dad) I got recognised on two separate occasions by people who I had no idea who they were. They didn't know my name as such but the recognised my face and had seen me do my act (which generally involves attacking pianos by jumping on them and stamping on them, and bizarre piano duets that have in the past involved swapping positions and sitting on shoulders/laps).
I have never gone out to seek credit for what I do. I hate the idea of getting rewards for doing something that I want to do and enjoy doing. I know that sounds weird. I shall phrase it differently. When I play at a gig or a concert, I want to go out there and give it my all. Each performance has to be better than the last. But I don't go in expecting something in return. That performance might be my last one. So when I finish a concert and people come up to me and give me praise, or I get personalised letters or emails saying how great the show was, or even the prospect of another concert, I get overwhelmed and pleased with myself.
I don't go out to advertise myself, or offer to do concerts. It's word of mouth that has helped me out so far. I really want to get out there and do more composing and performing. I absolutely love it. At some point, I might get my big break. I refuse to participate in things like the XFactor or Britain's Got Talent because I'm not a fan of the 'instant celebrity'. I much more admire the people who have worked hard throughout their life's and deserve the attention and praise they get. I will keep mentioning him and say that Tim Minchin is one of those guys. He spent years and years refining his act in Australia and decided that he would have a shot at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival. After that, he finally got recognised and all that hard work paid off.
To me, every concert that I play has my name in lights. Whether it be a small pub gig, a college concert or a large concert in a local theatre, each one is as important as the rest. So, keep an eye out for me. Obviously I would love to be playing in packed out arenas in the future, but I would be equally as happy if I played at the local pub every Thursday night. End of the day, I enjoy what I do and will keep doing it no matter what the circumstance.
Stay Strong
Michael
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