SONGWRITER - SINGER- PERFORMER - GUITARIST

" I loved your songs. There is no artifice, it's you, your songs and the audience". Guesthouse Storytellers, Newhaven.

It was a great concert all round - funny, thoughtful & very creative", Adam Bushel professional percusionist/musician "and in total we raised nearly £1000 for the food bank! So a huge success".

"The entertainment was provided by COLIN, what a talent -  great fun for all".  Sarah, Events Organiser, East Sussex.

"You have a great voice, perfect for your songs". Art Shurgin, California, musician and published lyricist.

"As a physical therapist I just want to say how well you related to your audience, totally inclusive". Tide Mills Festival goer.

"Your songs have strong, evocative, narrative lyrics and engaging vocals", Steve, Studio Producer, Brighton.        

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"SO WHAT KIND OF MUSIC DO YOU DO?", is the usual question.

I once made the mistake of using the word "folk" in my description - it's not, or at least only occasionally. Most songs are witty, I can't resist a play on words or a double entendre: some aim to be laugh out loud, and why not a a sing-along chorus? Some are plain serious, from politics lite to musical story to eco warrior with a good dose of love,  usually played on an acoustic guitar. I want my audience to be engaged and come away lighter, perhaps reflecting on life a little more. 

I'll happily settle for "singer songwriter performer".

 "GENEROUS, CLEVER AND EMPATHETIC LYRICS, THE WONDERFUL MUSIC AND CLEVER COMBINATION OF VIDEO MATERIAL. PURE, CREATIVE GENIUS, THANK YOU".  Betka Dorrerova - EU Interpreter.

Personally...

I soon discovered that writing and performing are my main drivers. I play whenever I can, always interested in new gigs and venues. 

I mused about adopting a catchy showbiz name... then settled on reality. Colin I was born, Colin I will stay, for the moment at least.

The backstory. I grew up in Worthing, West Sussex, spent most of my life in London and now am back in Sussex, but now it's East Sussex. It's been a 'round trip' that is definitely more exciting than it sounds! I have strong French  connections and taught in Paris. Also I have travelled widely, including climbing expeditions (pre 'Exodus'!) in the Himalaya, Africa and South America. I began my working life proper as a media specialist in education and ended as Head of Photography at 'A Level' for 12 years, a course I founded and grew to 120 students. On the side I also ran (with Lynnette) 'The Outsiders', a wonderful, changing group of students, for outdoor pursuits. Since early retirement I've enjoyed more time with the family and have grown 4 grandchildren! I've had time for being in France, skiing and other sports and have dipped into being an Extra - see if you can spot me in Tinker Tailor, Mr Selfridge, The Muppets (!)...

On two of TOM's gigs, my daughter has played violin and my grandson has played percussion, and my granddaughter has been my roadie - on a personal level it doesn't get much better. Lynnette, my wife, is a constant support and inspiration in my life and my projects.

Talk to me. Please dip into the Songs Page and don't hesitate to get in touch using the Contact Page at the end.  I hope to see you soon. And NOT from a social distance!

TOM

Lance and I being us, on Saltdean beach.