In the latest in the Getting To Know...
series, singer/songwriter Gary Page emerges from the back of a tour bus to talk about making music using a hatstand and about how his life resembles Summer Heights High
:
I would describe my music as simple but effective verse/chorus/verse/chorus/bridge/chorus with a tune you can hum. The intention is to try and express myself positively without sounding like a happy clapper.
Music makes me feel like a human being. There's nothing better than writing a song and then someone will have a connection with it, even if it's just a handful of people it makes me smile.
There's also nothing better than discovering a band and finding yourself compelled to buy their entire back catologue.
As well as being a solo artist, I play in
David Ford's big band. I have, in my time, played percussion on a hatstand, a suitcase and a metal clanger as well as your more conventional percussion, guitar, keyboard, bass and mandolin. Whatever he asks me to do, within reason, I'll do it as I'm up for a challenge.
Touring is a bubble. I've been lucky to tour with people I love but I can imagine if you're stuck with people you don't get on with it could be hell. I've been to some of the most exciting cities in the UK and Ireland but only experienced it in the back of a van and a small venue. There's nothing better though than seeing smiling faces after a gig and feeling like you've been a part of it. I've also met some wonderful people and sometimes they invite you back to a random house party in Galway, Ireland! The first few days back home are truly awful but you quickly adjust back to life.
If I could only listen to three albums for the rest of my life, they would be:
Radiator - Super Furry Animals
Together Alone - Crowded House
Afraid of Sunlight - Marillion
Certainly not the coolest albums you're likely to own but they have a special place in my heart.
Aside from music, I work in an Inclusion Department (think Gumnut College in
Summer Heights High and you get the idea) of a college in Sussex, England. Some of the kids I work with have troubles that make school work seem insignificant. It's rewarding though. In my short time there I have supported an autistic lad who has gone on to receive an outstanding achievement award and I've helped make a cracking rasberry cheescake with a partially sighted child who's an amazing kid. If you knew what he goes through day to day you'd never complain about your life.
To listen to some of Gary's charming music, visit his Myspace page. 
