Doctor Baz History (21)

05 Nov

Giant Steps

In the 80s I formed a great indie rock band called "Giant Steps" - maybe the best band I ever had the privilege of working with.

Here's a live video of this band, performing my song "Monument" in a local hall. I was lecturing at Southern Cross Uni in those days and used to "borrow" the Uni's outside broadcast bus on weekends. I'd get my students to work the 5 cameras for experience, with sound recorded direct from the mixing desk. My brilliant friend Paul Rainsford Towner would 'vision mix' (in real time - no editing) some of the "Moondance" shows we would put on in local halls.

Like many 'almost' bands, we broke up just on the verge of "making it" - after a huge tour of Sydney, and page two photos in mainstream Sydney papers, we had major labels and publishers flying up to see us.

The clips on this page features:

Lisa Spence, Vocal Barry Ferrier, Guitar Jen Anderson, Violin Gordon Heazelwood, Drums Richard Rummery, keyboards Paul Rainsford Towner, Vision Mix.

Under the direction of Paul Rainsford Towner they attempted to make a video of member Barry Ferrier's song "Bureaucracy', in one long camera take (no post production or editing), at a specially built set at the Alstonville chicken farm in the mid 80s. This set consisted of 6 separate 'rooms' built in a circle with the camera located at the centre. The camera made three complete passes around the circle and, as it panned, production teams would change the set design of each of these rooms, making for a continous flow of imagery, as the band moved from room to room. The production became a large community event with a large number of local youth volunteering as performers and support staff, creating a festival like atmosphere.

The clip below is a home-grown documentary of the whole ambitious project.

31 Jan

Beach

In 1982 I collaborated with brilliant Lismore born artist Paul ‘Rainsford’ Towner in staging the (for the time) outrageous avante garde theatrical experience ‘Beach’ at the unsuspecting Rochedale Theatre in Goonellabah. I had the fascinating opportunity of creating the music score and taking a lead role. A ton of white sand was deposited on the historic little stage. It only seats 88 so despite pushing the boundaries of experimental theatre - it was a stunningly atmospheric, dreamlike mime and mixed media piece, and a long way from an amateur musical - we did get enough curious punters in the door to make for an exciting audience buzz.

A ton of white sand on the stage made for the freedom of a very physical performance - you could dive like you were at the archetypal beach that was evoked in imagery and sound. Rainsford’s imagination is vivid, challenging and erotic, and strangely beautiful.

There is nothing like the atmosphere of idealism and excitement in being part of a small theatre company attempting the impossible.

Rainsford has gone on to international respect for his work with the Melbourne based Chapel of Change experimental theatre group and recently directed the stunning hi-tech 3D / virtual reality coverage of the Korean Winter Olympic Games.

Tanya Waters as Innocence in Beach Dancer Tanya Waters starred as "Innocence" in the ground breaking surrealist theatre experience "Beach", staged at the Rochedale Theatre in Goonellabah by brilliant local visual artist and theatrical genius Paul "Rainsford" Towner in the early 80s, Innocence was completely buried in the sand (it took incredible discipline on her behalf) and later would stun unexpecting audiences by emerging in a slo-mo mime / ritual birth. It was fascinating experiencing backstage for the 1st time, Tanya Waters would spend up to 1 hour being " dressed " for this scene, to become Innocence.
Being smeared with vaseline and then layers of cling wrap, continuing with vaseline and cling wrap until a couple of rolls were used up. The stage lights would slowly dissolve the cling wrap, like a chrysalis !

Rainsford was on another artistic planet for the Lismore of the time. In fact probably still is - his avante garde works created under his direction with the Melbourne based experimental theatre group Chapel of Change have been acclaimed at festivals across the world, and he directed the stunning hi-tech Virtual Reality coverage of the Korean Winter Olympics.

Beach Review Northern Star

Beach Curtain Call

theatre

16 Mar

40 Years Playing Music in Byron Bay

Barry Ferrier & US Surfing Champion - teamed up in 1981 to form "Soft Surfing"Rusty Miller

"Barry does Byron" - Interview with Many Nolan, Byron Echo.

Forty years ago, musician Barry Ferrier rolled into Byron Bay. It was an idyllic place – with surfie bohemian types rubbing shoulders with the old school locals. Barry has been an integral part of a growing, thriving, and always-changing music and arts scene here. It all started when he teamed up with blues harp blower, and surfing legend, Rusty Miller. Barry spoke with The Echo about the early days, ahead of his nostalgic reappearance with Rusty, at the Rails, on Sunday.

What brought you to the area? Can you describe what it felt like then? Who was here, what was the vibe?

I had been living a crazy schedule in Sydney in the 70s, performing in Jesus Christ Superstar, Joseph & The Amazing Technicolour Dreamcoat, recording a single for RCA, an album for Alberts Music, appearing on Countdown, and supporting Ry Cooder at the Palais in Melbourne. I caught a train up to Mullumbimby for a Christmas holiday away, needing a break from the rigours of the Sydney music scene. At a NYE dance at Durrumbul Hall I met the members of a brilliant early north coast funk/rock trio, The Feelers, including virtuoso American guitarist Michael Barnes (who had come to Australia with the Nutwood Rug Band). After chatting and finding out about each other, they offered me a position in the band and a room in the musician Greg Lyon’s old farmhouse at Possum Creek. I just loved the natural beauty of the region and decided to move up here to refresh myself and to spend some time writing some new music. I’m still on that holiday 40 years later!

So how did you come to be playing at the Rails as Soft Surfing? Did you do surf numbers?

Tom Mooney had just taken over the lease at the Railway Friendly Bar, then just a tiny little bar on the Railway Station where a few old-timers used to sit. Rusty built the first section of the awning, which now covers the stage at the Rails, and I believe it was Rusty who suggested to Tom to trial putting on some music. Rusty asked me to play the debut music gig in late January 1981, and he accompanied me on congas and harmonica. We played there every weekend for a few months and pretty soon there were enthusiastic crowds coming down to bop, and the new venue never looked back. We did many gigs together after that, playing the first gig at Brunswick Pub, and also the Byron Bay Markets in the park near the Surf Club. Rusty had been US surfing champion, but though he had named us Soft Surfing, we didn’t actually play any surf music, [we played] an eclectic set of originals and covers including Tom Waits’ songs and the hits of the early 80s (though we didn’t have the big hair to go with the repertoire!). Rusty always did a cameo with the Willie Nelson song On the Road Again.

What do you think is so special about The Rails?

It is a wonderful, and probably unique credit, to have hosted live music seven nights a week for 40 years, with COVID-19 being the only thing to halt the fun. Many artists gained experience from gigging at the Rails. John Butler got his start there. The relaxed, down-to-earth atmosphere and excellent food have made it part of Byron Bay’s unique identity.

What were the happening places back then?

For many years in the 80s there was only one nightclub in Byron Bay, which was called the Brasserie and it was situated in the corner of the old Woolies car park, now known as Woody’s Surf Shack. It would open when the pubs closed, at 11pm. Most weekends I would play at either the old Surfside Hotel (now the Beach Hotel), the Great Northern, or the Rails, pack up and then go on to play a second spot at the Brasserie where my duo or trio was the resident band. There used to be a queue to get in that stretched up to Jonson Street and ‘round the corner, and we would take the door price of $3. We would rage on until three or four in the morning.

What is it about Byron do you think that has this endless attraction for newcomers?

Byron Bay itself is always, firstly, one of the most beautiful beaches in the world, with great surf. The early Byron surf culture was very attractive – simple, idealistic, nature-loving and carefree. The hinterlands have such a wow factor for natural unspoilt scenic beauty. The music scene began to mature and venues like the Arts Factory (now the Brewery – I played the opening gig there too) and the early Blues Fest (which I’ve played five times) were established in Byron Bay. There was also the emergence of the counter-culture movement, inspired by the Aquarius Festival in Nimbin. Byron Bay gradually developed a reputation for its relaxed lifestyle, great culture, food, and natural beauty. Some people also have a sense that there is a ‘spirit’ to this special meeting place. So many people, like me, come here for a holiday and never leave.

Tell me about you and Rusty getting together 40 years since your first gig at The Rails… how have the rehearsals been going?

Rusty and I have been friends for 40 years, and way back when we were young bucks, my dad and I helped lay his kitchen floor. We’ve had a few reunion gigs over the years, and I maintained his website for a few years, so we’ve always had a great friendship. It will be nice to acknowledge this shared time.

What should we expect for your upcoming reunion gig at the rails?

We’ll have a bit of fun playing some of my favourites, and Rusty will provide the rhythmic feel and some great blues harp. On the Road Again will certainly feature.

https://www.echo.net.au/2021/01/interview-with-barry-ferrier/

19 Jan

The Kukunarri Show - Tiwi Islands

Nguiu, Tiwi Islands

This project was developed with the Nguiu community, with Barry Ferrier being invited to put together a music/video component and Tracks Dance invited to devise and direct the performance aspects. The performance dealt with the issues identified by the Nguiu community that caused the high youth suicide rate in their community. Tracks directed this movement and visual performance working closely with the community and through the Xavier Catholic Education Centre Nguiu Community. Bill Davis and Barry Ferrier produced a half-hour television show that was presented on the BRACKS community TV system.

The KUKANARRI SHOW (a traditional word that describes celebrations when the whole community comes together) featured many stories from the community, including its key dreamings and creation stories, its history since colonisation and its current joys. Tracks worked with the children in the local schools and other community groups. The performance took place in an area that was both under cover and outdoors and incorporated large puppets, images and short dances.

Project Stages:

research difficulties and health problems occuring in Nguiu
recruit directors, musical , dance and design personell
create and rehearse show. write and rehearse anthem. Create daily Television shows.
perform kukanarri Show
survey audience and senior students for reactions
cut 20 hours of video (daily television shows) into 1 hour documentary. create video of performance

Creative Personnel

Barry Ferrier, Bill Davis, David McMicken and Tim Newth, Brian Wappett,

Performers

Students from Xavier Community Education Centre, Nguiu community members

Tracks Dance 1998

Co-Artistic Directors: Sarah Calver, David McMicken, Tim Newth
Administrator: Liann Stevenson, Joelene Paterson, Bong Ramillo

[under Ausdance NT]

11 Oct

Dr. Baz Gig Poster Archive

Dr. Baz Gig Poster Archive

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02 Aug

The Astounding Optimissimos in 'Paradise: Depression Style

I think it was 1977 that I successfully auditioned for The Astounding Optimissimos in 'Paradise: Depression Style which was the first play in Australia to be directed by the acclaimed French theatre director Jean Paul Mignon who went on to great success with Anthill (Australian National Theatre). Written by award winning Australian writer Tim Gooding (famous for the film Heatwave starring Judy Davis) this was a bizaare musical which was staged at Melbourne's legendary Pram Factory, in which I playedthe piano and my character was a Peter Allen parody - I actually danced and sang "I Go to Rio". It featured Camille Gardner (a beautiful actress and singer who died tragically in a light plane accident in Byron Bay, the day after I had a reunion lunch with her in the 80s), David Price, Elizabeth Lancaster, and Bruce Keller. Through the mists of time it is hard to recall much but I remember a scene that was some kind of choreographed cross between a ballroom dancing marathon and a dodgem cars style elimination wrestling match - if you can imagine that!

I was extremely impressed by JeanPierre Mignon's dedication, insight and cast support as a director, and he worked with me tirelessly, line by line, to help motivate and add nuance to a my eccentric part in this mad cap, surrealist comedy. It was a huge flop, despite the brilliance and passion brought to the production by the ambitious director, determined to make his mark. After several nights of virtually no audiences, some of the cast staged a boycott, which enraged the fiery Frenchman who believed in the ideals of theatre - the show must go on! - and there was a very tense standoff.

During this period I became great friends with acclaimed aboriginal actor David Gulpillil, who used to frequent a nearby nightclub that the cast from this show would hang out at, after the show.

theatre

10 Jun

Poco Loco: Australian Nuevo Flamenco Trio Tours Norway

Poco Loco at the Sjyrock Festival, Vaeroy, Norway 2007

Australian vocal and nuevo flamenco trio 'Poco Loco' existed for a single tour of Norway in 2007 after a debut gig in Australia at Melbourne's Spanish Club.

Featuring Barry Ferrier - vocals and lead guitar, Billy Miller (the Ferrets) - vocals and bass guitar, Brian Watt - vocals and rhythm guitar, percussion.

In 2007, after rehearsing through the mail, a frantic face to face session at Billy's Yarraville home, and that crazy debut gig (see videos at the top odf this [page), Poco Loco traveled to the remote island of Vaeroy in the Lofoten Islands in the north of Norway to perform at the Sjyrock Music Festival. From there the travelled across northern Norway performing 28 shows.

Poco Loco

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08 Jul

A Thousand Bands

How many bands, duos & musical ensembles have I played in? The time when I could count them all is long past. I formed my first band at high school with school mates Michael Edwards (piano), Leo Botham (Bass) , and Roy - name eludes me now (drums). We played instrumentals made famous by the Shadows and some of my early intrumental compositions influenced by these surf guitar hits. Later I answered an ad in the local Manly Daily and, while still at school, landed a job as lead guitarist with a local rock band - I can't remember the name of the band now - and began playing at hotels while still underage, with my Vibratone guitar and a homemade guitar amp which once sent me flying across the room with electric shock. One vague memory from those teen years was supporting Masters Apprentices at Beacon Hill High School basket ball court.

I met Sydney songwriter and UK ex-pat Roderick Morgan during my first year at the University of Sydney, who was a big influence on my songwriting and we began jamming together. I still jam with Roderick four decades later when I visit Sydney. I was about 19 when I bought a Burns Bison from Roderick's friend Keith Grey. I was asked by a guy in my psychology class at uni to play at a concert at Hyde Park - it turned out to be a very large Christian gathering - an audience of thousands in the park - and that's were I met my future wife, the extraordinarily talented vocalist Cammie Lindon, who was headlinging the show, and another singer, who also became a lifelong friend, Malcolm Smith. After that meeting Cammie and getting together with her and Roderick Morgan, she would drop around to my terrace house in Chippendale in her school uniform for rehearsals. Cammie and Roderick I began performing at coffee shops and restaurants around Glebe. We played original songs and pop covers in an unplugged acoustic style, much influenced by the harmonies of Crosby Stills & Nash, and developed a love of harmony singing.

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I was meanwhile studying Psychology at Sydney Uni, but fate intervened and I successfully auditioned for Jesus Christ Superstar. This fork in the road changed my life forever.

After Superstar I joined the cast of Steve J. Spears' Africa: the Savage Musical. While touring with this show Cammie Lindon contacted me and sent me tickets to a Leo Kottke Concert at Sydney Town Hall, where she, at 16, had been chosen as support act - she sang two of my original songs in her set and I flew up from Melbourne to be in the audience, a memorable event to hear my songs performed in such illustrious company.

I had formed the art rock band "Passage" with Billy Miller, Richard Kaal & Martin Falls during my years with JCS, and this was to be a precursor to the Ferrets and we recorded a single for Jon English's new label, produced by Michael Carlos. I later toured with the Ferrets as bass player.

After working on some theatre restaurant shows in Melbourne at the Flying Trapeze with members of "Africa" I successfully auditioned for Joseph & the Amazing Technicolour Dreamcoat. During this period I began working with Jeff St. John and also met Andrew Wilson the musical director of the Lindsay Kemp Company who became a close friend. Through this meeting I was engaged as co-composer for Kemp's upcoming production of "Salome". So I turned down a part in Mad Max when the company offered me a position working in Melbourne on "Flowers" at Her Majesties and later Comedy Theatres, and during this period I joined two of the cast members of Africa: the Savage Musical - Rod Freeman Smith & Glenda Lum to perform a madcap rock cabaret "Kabaratz" at the iconic Flying Trapeze Theatre Restaurant. It was there I met Colin Hay of later "Men at Work" fame. I performed with Colin at the 76 Sunbury Pop Festival and he sang the lead role on my first demo of the Howson/Ferrier opera "Squizzy".

I had met a talented unknown Chris Clark through Roderick Morgan and I began performing across Sydney in a duo with Chris, who coud do a perfect Paul McCartney impersonation, and we had a residency at Ali's Oasis in Birkenhead. Colin Hay came up to Sydney on my invitation and stayed at my parent's house in Dee Why and went to the audition for the musical "Ned Kelly" I had been offered by Faith Martin my theatrical agent in my place because I felt already too committed to take up a role - and Colin won a role in that production. I remember one particular night during that period when he came to Ali's Oasis and I persuaded him to sing some songs - and his incredible voice drew people from who knows where - wthin a half an hourt the restaurant was full of people mesmerised by his talent.

A few years later, Chris, Cammie and I got together again with Roderick Morgan (Old Man Crow) to perform "the Milky Way Cabaret" at the Flying Trapeze in Melbourne. Out of this I formed "Skeleton Crew" with Cammie and the rhythm section from Sasha -Peter Leighton & Chris Doyle. Skeleton Crew became very popular around Sydney venues and headlined at UNSW Roundhouse supported by the Iva Davies group confusingly known as "Flowers' who went on to great success as Icehouse. I had secured a contract at Alberts of record my Magical Frank musical in collaboration with librettist Frank Howson and Ted Albert began to mentor me and produced and engineered the album. Skeleton Crew later recorded a single at Alberts King St studios with Bruce Brown at the helm, which was never released and we then went on to tour north Queensland with a residency in Rockhampton, finally arriving in Billinudgel on the North Coast - (which region was later to become my home) where we played a residency in a truck stop for three months, till a flood intervened. We were then offered the ooportunity by Rodney Bain to play the music for a revival of Africa at the Victorian College of the Arts theatre in Melbourne.

It's hard to recreate the faded chronology, but during my season with Joseph & the Amazing Technicolour Dreamcoat I also formed a band with Malcolm Smith and a drummer named Alex (now living in Nimbin) - we began rehearsing with John Paul Young but then instead went on to back Phil Jones (of Phil Jones & the Unknown Blues and who later reaching massive European prominence with the psychedelic rock outfit Quintessence) as the Shiva's Fire, playing regularly at the legendary French's Winebar in Oxford Street, the legendary Bondi Lifesaver and a whole range of gigs in Sydney & Newcastle. There is a dim memory of us backing the wonderful vocalist Dobie Grey who was touring Australia in the 70s, at a Double J concert. I worked with Jeff St. John & Sasha for two years. I was playing the headline with Jeff at Cheqeurs the very first night Cold Chisel played (as our support) in Sydney. An astonishing vocalist, who was disabled by polio and sang from a wheelchair with a powerful voice and dramatic fair, Jeff was highly competitive and would beat me at every game - cards, chess, scrabble when we travelled to overnight gigs in Newcastle. He would pick me up in his modified EH Holden station wagon with hand controls.

I had had a brief stints backing Gordon Waller of "Peter & Gordon" fame, who was in Australia to play the Pharoah in "Joseph & the Åmazing Technicolour Dreamcoat" (I was a cast member).

Let's jump ahead (I'll fill in the gaps later) to 1980 when I travelled to Mullumbimby to visit friends and have a break from my hectic music life. I went to Durrumbul Hall on NewYears Eve featuring a three band (Michael Barnes, Gordon Heazlewood and Carl...) called the Feelers .

"The Feelers" eventually morphed into "Innerspring" with the addtion of Fred Cole on keys, Peter Jaggle taking over the drums, Doug Rea taking over bass.

07 Aug

Curriculum Vitae

B.J. Ferrier Resume

...C u r r i c u l u m ...V i t ae...

B. J. Ferrier,

PhD, B.A. (Sydney), B. Litt. (Hons.), Dip. Mus. (Comp.), Dip. I.T. (Web Design)

B.J. Ferrier has academic, multimedia production/design and performing arts/music strands to his CV.

The version presented herein is a complete chronological list of work experience.

EDUCATION

Southern Cross University, Lismore, N.S.W.
Doctor of Philosphy (PhD) 2006
“Multimedia as Meta-Art: the processes and aesthetics of interactive digital art”; includes a folio of experimental multimedia art with exegesis; received University Scholarship;
Supervisor: Dr. Michael Hannan, Head of the School of Contemporary Arts, S.C.U.

Deakin University, Geelong, Victoria
Bachelor of Letters (Honours), 1994
Major: Performing Arts (Theatre Directing). Honours thesis was a study of the technical, performance and cultural issues involved in the mounting of a major Qld. multimedia/theatrical production aimed at tourists, depicting the Australian Aboriginal Dreamtime, entitled ‘Dreamtime People", for which author was also score composer/audio designer.

Southern Cross University, Lismore, N.S.W.
Diploma of Music (Composition), 1984
Major: Composition. Studio-based, equivalent to Bachelor undergraduate degree. Teachers were the eminent Australian composers Dr. James Penberthy and Richard Mills.

University of Sydney, Sydney, N.S.W.
Bachelor of Arts, 1980
Double Major: Psychology/Fine Arts
Minors: Philosophy, Anthropology and Economics.

Certificate IV in Workplace Training and Assessment completed 2003

Diploma of I.T. (Web Development)

ACADEMIC APPOINTMENTS:

Central Queensland University, Gold Coast International Campus, 2006;

Lecturer: New Media Histories and Technologies;

SAE School of Audio Engineering; 2005

Lecturer, Introduction to 3D Animation using Maya 6.0;
Guest Lecturer: Multimedia Production issues;
Lecturer: dynamic web-pages using PHP, Actionscript and CSS

Central Queensland University, Gold Coast International Campus,
2002-2005

Lecturer, Multimedia Design (Interface Design, Interactive Design & Web)
Lecturer, Multimedia Development (CD ROM Development, Shockwave)
Lecturer, Digital Audio

Southern Cross University, School of Contemporary Arts
2003-2004
Lecturer , Multimedia III; (HCI Design, Interactive CD production using Director; Web-sites using Shockwave Internet technology)

Griffith University, Conservatorium
2002
Lecturer, Digital Production Methods
Lecturer, MIDI Music and Media

Bond University,
1999-2004
Assistant Professor, Multimedia
School of Information Technology :

Multimedia 1 (Photoshop, Illustrator, Dreamweaver)
Multimedia II (video editing, 3D animation, interface design)
Multimedia III
Interactive Media Programming (Flash Animation, Actionscript programming, Digital Audio design)
Multimedia Special Topics
Post-graduate supervision

School of Film and Television

Lecturer, Video Production 1; Camera, lighting, sound, script development, production; non-linear editing using Adobe Premiere, and Speed Razor.
Lecturer, Music Video Production

North Coast Institute of T.A.F.E., Kingscliffe College
2001-2005
Teacher and consultant, Digital Arts and Media; Courses developed and taught over this period:

Digital Arts & Media Production Design & Development;
Image Capture and Manipulation
Scripting for Multimedia,
Marketing,
Writing Copy
Digital Industry Studies,
Occupational Health & Safet
Business and the Law
Video production and editing
Web design
Digital Audio Recording and Editing,
Principles of Animation
Music Industry Studies.

· Facilitator, LearnScope Project (an Australian Flexible Learning Community initiative, funded by A.N.T.A.) focusing on the development of dynamic online collaborative learning experiences, using simple web technologies to facilitate distance learning and collaborative on-line design projects.

Southern Cross University ; School of Contemporary Arts
1996-99
Lecturer, Music Industry Promotion & Publicity

Southern Cross University; School of Contemporary Arts
1987-9
Lecturer, Professional Studies
Tutor in Video Post-production Sound
Tutor in Electric Guitar
Tutor in Music Composition

PROFESSIONAL SOCIETIES

Australian Performing Rights Association since1974
Musician's Union
North Coast Entertainment Industry Association
I.G.D.A.

Music Managers Forum
Australian Interactive Multimedia Industry Association

AWARDS & HONORS

A.S.E.A award for excellence in the arts. "Solomon and the Big Cat"; KITE Theatre Company in association with the Queensland Performing Arts Trust at Q.P.A.C.; composed and performed musical score. 1985

Dept. of Ethnic Affairs Multicultural Award for film production; for the film "Green Tea"; composed score and post-production sound. 1994

Golden Reel Award for Community Radio; "Bushfire Radio" for Central Australian Media Association, Alice Springs; produced 20 half-hour radio broadcasts featuring songs and music.
Dolphin Award for Music Theatre; North Coast Entertainment Industry Association Award 1994
Dolphin Award for A Capella Music; North Coast Entertainment Industry Award. 1994
Twice winner of the Dolphin Award for Blues; 1995 and 1996 North Coast Entertainment Industry Awards
NCEIA Dolphin Award for Music Video "Slim Pickens & Dr. Baz"

EMPLOYMENT and EXPERIENCE

(Projects completed in Multimedia Production/Design and Music/Performing Arts)

2012-2022

Marketing Manager for Enhanced Energy Recovery (now Oasis Energy), Australian Organic Network Pty Ltd, and for the Public Group Ltd, producing logos, business cards, websites, brochures, powerpoints and corporate videos. Managed social media for these three companies. For Public Group have gained 15000 US instagram followers and 25000 Facebook followers
Marketing Manager for The Tenant in Common Exchange (ticX). Managed social media accounts for ticX and the Organic Consumers Association of Australia - for OCAA have gained 38000 followers on LinkedIn.
Continued performing as a solo entertainer. 100 (plus) performances per year.
Performed at the "Splendour in the Grass Festival" with Val Ockart.
Wrote and performed "Heaven & Hell: the Friendship of the Big O & the Man in Black" based on the lifelong friendship of Johnny Cash & Roy Orbison, 2 man show with Slim Pickens, toured NSW
Began farming certified organic ginger, garlic & turmeric as Byron Bay Organics.
Performances with African musician Kobya;
Performances with Pete C. & Dr. Baz + the Propellors (blues).
Designed websites for : music-leads.com; byronbayvision.com; organic-consumers.com.au (Organic Consumers Association of Australia); affordable-housing.com.au (Affordable Housing Solution); kobya.com.au (African musician Kobya); andycowan.com.au for blues pianist Andy Cowan.

2007-2016 Ongoing performances as musician entertainer in hotels and clubs of the North Rivers NSW and SE Queensland/Brisbane; average 100 performance per year; in the groups Snapshot (commercial pop duo in an 'unplugged' style); Slim Pickens & Dr. Baz (delta blues and cajun); Kellie Knight Band (performed at the Byron Bay Blues Festival and in duo with Kellie at the Adelaide Fringe Festival); Aysha & Dr. Baz (performed at Splendour in the Grass Festival). 2015 Airlie Beach Music Festival with Fiona Walsh; 2015 Gympie Music Muster with "I Hear That Train a-Comin' : The Johnny Cash Story". Designed cover for "Scarlet Fan" + promo videos, for novel by Australian author Melody Lemonde;

Examples of Websites designed and developed: Ray White, Hong Kong; Ray White Platinum Partners, Surfers Paradise; Real Estate World Group, Surfers Paradise; Macadamia Castle, Newrybar; Eagle Insurance, Byron Bay; Byron Music, Byron Bay; Edge Hairdressing, Byron Bay; Adult Dildo Vibes, Burringbar; Byron Bay Jewellery; scarletfan.com - author's website; poemshapes.com - author's website; Sydney Organic Trading Company; Earth Salt Life (Himalayan Rock Salt, Sydney) earthsaltlife.com.au; secretmensbusiness.com (Angus Waddell, Olympian); Bangalow Naturopath; Cooper Communications, Ocean Shores; andycowan.com (Melbourne musician); byronecopark.com Eco Village, Byron Bay; internationalorganicnetwork.com (Organic Food Wholesaler); certifiedorganicsolutions.com.au (Consultant); Byron Green Building Centre; Byron Cars; Caribean Roti King (Broadbeach); circuscomedy.com (comedian/acrobat); Cook Books from the Heart (organic cookbook onine shop); Cosmetic Surgery Thailand (Coolangatta); Dean Bohn Builders (deanbohnbuilders.com.au); Design Evolutions (Town Planning Consultant, Byron Bay); Doncaster Sporting Gear, Canberra; East Timor Children's charity (swim school); Global Resource Brokers (Surfers Paradise); Gold Coast Holiday Apartments (rental agency, Surfers Paradise); Compass Curtains (Byron Bay); ifixpoperty.com (Handyman, Byron Bay); Institute of Diabetes (naturopath, Southport); Joan Lawman Beauty (beauty salon, Byron Bay); Juno Energy (solar installations, Byron Bay); Lightworks Online (lighting shop, Byron Bay); matesrates.com (political protest, Mullumbimby); northernriversbasagent.com.au (Book Keeper, Lismore); nrcareersexpo.com.au, Lismore; pacificsurf.com.au (Holiday Apartments, Tugun); Pizza Paradiso, Suffolk Park; Rusty Miller Surf School, Byron Bay; Ryan Mediation Law, Coffs Harbour; Sharaine Natural Skin Care, Sunshine Coast; Timber Kit Homes, Billinudgel; Tonu Shane, sculptor; Australian Circus Artists, agency website, Byron Bay; Yamba Golf Club; Brunswick Heads Bowling Club; Rural Machinery Repair Service, Federal; Atlas Currency Exchange, (Byron Bay); Sacred Architecure (Arion Ocean Architect, Mullumbimby); Rob Aungle, (Structural Engineering, Mullumbimby); Sweet Pork (pork products Alstonville); accomseek.com.au (accommodation directory) Doncaster Sporting Centre (Canberra); homedecorideas.com.au (Byron Bay); edgehair.com (Hair Salon, Byron Bay); itmarketing.com.au (Canberra web sales); signworld.com.a (Canberra Signwriter); whygoldbullion.com.au (Gold Consultant, Byron Bay);

1997-2007 While working as an academic at a number of universities and Kingscliff Colleg of T.A.F.E. continued ongoing performances as musician entertainer in hotels and clubs of the North Rivers NSW and SE Queensland/Brisbane; average 100 performance per year; solo and in the groups Snapshot (commercial pop duo in an 'unplugged' style); Slim Pickens & Dr. Baz (delta blues and cajun); the Purple Drippers (50s rockabilly); Waiting for Brian (alternative rock); The Black Pearls (original r & b)

2007

Freelance web-site design and development, Inner Spring Media

Designed Doc Span web-site and CD cover "The Treatment" (http://docpsan.net)

Designed MIX web-site for North Coast Music industry Association (http://nceia.org.au)

Voice-over/narration for "Afghan Willy "; documentary on a charismatic aboriginal camel handler and the muster of feral camels in North West Queensland; Croc Lumley Productions

"Traditional Mongolian Yurts" (corporate DVD production); video post-production, sound design and editing. wwwgreenhs.com.au

Designed Byron Bay Information Portal Guide to Byron

Westfield Finance TVC; video post-production/animation editing and sound mix

Performed at the East Coast Blues & Roots Festival, Byron Bay

Performed at Blues on Broadbeach , Gold Coast, with Slim Pickens & Doc Span

2006

Performed at the Tamworth Country Music Festival with Slim Pickens and Errol Walsh

Performed at the Syjrock Music Festival, Norway with latin/flamenco trio Poco Loco

2005

Festival performances, performing with Slim Pickens:

East Coast Blues & Roots Festival, Byron Bay;
Blues on Broadbeach, Gold Coast Queensland
Syrock Music Festival, Vaeroy, Norway
Sement Blues Festival, Kjopsvik, Norway
Gympie Muster, Aramoor State Forest, Queensland

2004

· Produced CD album of original compositions for Gav Hamilton, entitled “Boogietown”.

· Collaborated on CD album entitled “Cactus” for “Slim Pickens and Dr. Baz”.

· European Tour, with performances in Norway, London and Ireland, and a headline performance at the Sjyrock Music Festival, Vaeroy Norway, performing delta blues as “Slim Pickens and Dr. Baz”.

· Completed web-site for Organic Fish Australia, Pty Ltd.

1998-2003 The Little Gallery, Maryborough, Qld.
Digital Video Animator/soundtrack composer
Commissioned to create 4 x20-minute hour video animations using digital special effects techniques to create 'Take Your Space Now: a healing journey through colour and sound'; based on 60 oil paintings by the artist 'Duane'; (to be released on DVD later in 2004); produced promotional web-site and designed product packaging. Click here for more info.

2003
· Performed at the prestigious international East Coast Blues Festival, Byron Bay, performing delta blues as “Slim Pickens and Dr. Baz”.

Freelance work 1999-2001:

· www.tarot-chesta . Web site for print artist Chester Harris promoting limited edition hand printed tarot cards

· Event Manager for Thursday Plantations Laboritories “Homecoming 2001”, outdoor concert featuring Daryl Braithwaite and a fireshow spectacular

· Corporate video for Prosperity Seminars, Australia (Brisbane).

· Conducted a course in Web-site design for the staff of Lismore Skill Centre

· Design assistance for Seed-savers Web-site

· Designed web site for Possum Creek Lodge (holiday accommodation)

· Produced corporate video for International Seminars Pty Ltd

· Web-site for Arion Ocean Design, Architects

· Producer, camera, editor & sound design for 1 hr documentary video entitled “Red Gold”, on the history of the red cedar industry on the NSW Far North Coast and recent experiments in cloning (now in post-production).

· Graphic design: CD cover for Brendan Smoother (Country Music Artist)

· Graphic design : Stationary, print ads & business cards; Dolphin Café Lennox Head

· Live vision mix (2 camera shoot), graphic design of packaging and duplication for Dance Studios at Ballina, Alstonville & Mullumbimby (NSW) end of year concerts

· Designed Poster for pop band “Crank”

· Mastered and Duplicated CDs for vocal artist Shanti Ramal

1998 Catholic Education N.T. “The Kukunari Show” Bathurst Island
Community artist/video producer
Commissioned to make a documentary on a health & education project run by 5 community artists among young Tiwi Islanders, to help combat youth suicide. This project included shooting and editing a half hour television segment on a daily basis for 6 weeks, which was broadcast nightly on the Bathurst Island Community TV network. (Click here for a slideshow of images of Tiwi life and art, captured during this project).

1998 Young Drums Percussion Orchestra, Aberdeen, Scotland
Video Documentary Producer/cameraman/video editor
commissioned to produce a video documentary of the "Young Drums" tour to Scotland to perform at the Aberdeen International Youth Festival.

1997 Knoch Tea Tree Exports,
Video Editor/sound editor/composer
record voice-over; video edit & post production audio for "Wild Harvest: the Gold standard for Tea Tree Oil"; corporate video explaining the superior medicinal qualities of organically grown wild-harvested tea tree oil. http://www.ttexport.com.au/

1997 Durrumbil Jazz Festival Committee
Video producer/cameraman
Commissioned to shoot archival footage of the inaugural Durrumbil Jazz Festival

1996 to 1997
Futera Pty. Ltd., Melbourne, Victoria
Graphic Artist
commissioned to design a set of 120 collectable cards entitled "Hemp DownUnder" for the makers of the Australian Cricket Board cricket cards. Click here to view.

1997 Young Drums Inc.,
Web site designer
designed and implemented website collating information for the Young Drums fund raising efforts towards the Aberdeen Youth Festival tour. Click here for profile.

1997 North Coast Entertainment Industry Association, Lismore, N.S.W.
Video animator/titler
produced the on screen video animations and winners/sponsors video titles for "the Dolphin Awards" presentation night

1990 to 1997
Central Australian Aboriginal Media Association,
tutor in digital music technology, sound engineering
short residential courses for trainee aboriginal sound engineers employed at the C.A.A.M.A. recording and television studios, Alice Springs; held at ISMedia Studios. (www.caama.com.au/.)

1997 Humble Pie Co., Billinudgel, N.S.W.
jingle composer / animator
produced a “dancing pie” T.V. commercial; composed & recorded jingle

1997 Chincogan Fiesta Committee,Mullumbimby, N.S.W.
Video documentary producer
commissioned to produce a documentary of the 1996 Chincogan Charge (cross-country endurance race) and the annual street parade.

1997 David Birch and the Nightcap Band
recording producer/graphic artist
Producer and guitarist on the album, a track from which won the N.C.E.I.A. award for best rock song. Designed CD cover and web-site for the music album “Byron Journey”

1996 Tangentyere Aboriginal Council, Alice Springs, N.T.
Video Producer
Cameraman, video editor and post-production sound for "Tangentyere Wardens", a half hour docu-drama commissioned by the Alice Springs Council of Elders to explain and celebrate the role of aboriginal wardens in Alice Springs community life; shown on ABC Imparja. Produced the soundtrack. For a profile of Tangentyere Council : www.atns.net.au/biogs/A000509b.htm

1996 Papua New Guinea Government,
Digital Sound Editor
post-production sound, and audio sweetening using ProTools; a documentary on reaforestation techniques

1996 North Sydney Council, Sydney; N.S.W.
Digital Graphic Artist
commissioned to use digital media technology to produce images based on aboriginal rock art, which were etched into aluminium plaques and are displayed as the final images in the Berry Island foreshores nature walk known as "The Gadyan Track".

1996 Pitjanjatjara Land Council, Ernabella, Amata , Pitjanjatjara lands NT
Audio and Video Producer
Commissioned to re-record a contemporary version of the Pitjanjatjara Land Rights Song in communities through the Pitjanjatjara Lands and make a documentary video of the process, as a health & education initiative, celebrating the unique Central Australian lifestyle. http://www.atns.net.au/biogs/A000304b.htm ; See images of the Pitjantjatjara lands here.

1996 Shane Warne, Swann Sport, Melbourne, Vic.
Graphic Artist
graphic design for Shane Warnes' stationery and business card. http://www.auscricket.com.au/currentnews_oct04_warnerecord.htm

1996 Slug'em Art,
multimedia producer; graphic artist
Commissioned to produced an pilot animation/promotional video, featuring a collection of 3D sculptured "KritterZ" by artist Chris Job;
Graphic design of a promotional book featuring same; created website for Slug'em Art

1995 Hughes Engineering, Ballina, N.S.W.
Multimedia producer
this company designs, constructs and exports 9-seat mobile virtual reality cinemas; they commissioned a series of 4 minute “adventure” videos with music/sound/titles, to which the computer controlled hydraulic motion of the portable theatre was programmed (similar to the Batman ride at Movieworld). Exported to Europe. http://www.lightwing.com.au/

1995 Eartha Kitt, Australian National Tour
Music Director
band-leader & guitarist for legendary vocalist and cabaret artist Eartha Kitt (“Catwoman” from Batman TV series), including the nationally televised performance at the Gold Coast International Jazz Festival, & performances at Perth & Canberra Entertainment Centres & the State Theatre, Sydney. Visit http://www.usca.edu/aasc/kitt.htm for a profile of Eartha Kitt.

1995 Adult Community Education Inc., Lismore, Coraki, N.S.W.
Tutor in Radio Production
designed and delivered a two week workshop in community radio production and sound collage

1995 Young Drums Inc., Lismore, N.S.W.
Video Producer
shot & edited Young Drums music video entitled "Chinatown"; edited live concert footage shot by ABC of their performance of "Thus Spake Zarathustra" at Brisane's Piazza. Click here to visit Young Drums web-site.

1994 Nathan Cavalieri, Gold Coast International Jazz Festival, Surfers Paradise,
Music Director
Band-leader and guitarist, accompanying guitar prodigy Nathan Cavalieri.

1994 to 1995
Boulevarde Films, Melbourne
composer
commissioned to compose an opera entitled "Squizzy Taylor" which went into production as a feature film; Boulevarde Films subsequently was bankrupted through embezzlement and the project abandoned. The opera still exists in manuscript & demo tape. Click here for short account of the macabre life Squizzy.

1993 to 1995
Ismedia Studios, Bangalow, N.S.W.
Project recording engineer/producer/music video maker
produced and recorded music albums for country/folk music artist David Birch, fingerpicker/entertainer Tim Rickards, and Irish singer/songwriter Willi McElroy; produced video clips for African dance/ reggae artist "Kibwe" (broadcast on A.B.C.)

1994 "Dreamtime People", Sanctuary Cove Theatre, Qld.
Composer and Music Director
commissioned to create the music score for a hi-tech multimedia production staged as a permanent tourist attraction depicting Aboriginal Dreamtime mythology; show featured lazer lighting, and synchronized computer animation on 3 giant video screens; cast of 9 aborignal actors from the Black Swan Theatre Company

1994 LightWing Industries, Ballina, N.S.W.
Video producer
produced corporate video for award winning light aircraft manufacturer and flying school. http://www.lightwing.com.au/

1993 Australian Film Commission, Brisbane
Film score composer
Compose and record music score, plus foley and sound editing for the film "Moments of Cruelty" dir. Guy Morgan; prod. Colin Oddy.

1985 to 1991
Queensland Performing Arts Trust, Brisbane
Composer/music director
Composed & music directed productions for 5 years including "Three Legends of Kra" by Robyn Archer, starring Diane Cilento, with 150 voice choir; conducted 35 piece orchestra during the nine performances; directed by Nigel Triffitt. http://www.qpac.com.au

1991 Catholic Music Teachers Association of N.S.W., Cabarita Beach, N.S.W.
music technology workshops
developed & presented a 3 day "Computer Music in the Contemporary Classroom" workshop

1986 to 1990
Kite Theatre Company, Brisbane, Qld & extensive touring
Composer/Music Director
Composed music for 5 joint productions between Q.P.A.T. and the Kite Theatre Company : the award winning "Solomon and the Big Cat"; "Whose Beach is it Anyway?" (toured nationally); innovative music technology based "Kris Makes a Machine"; "Sounds Good"; "The Day the T.V. Busted"

1990 Queensland Department of Education, Brisbane, Queensland
Composer and post production sound
Composed and recorded the score for the film "Openings" which highlighted the careers of women academics in Queensland; directed by Avrill Stark

1985 to 1990

Queensland Performing Arts Trust, Brisbane Queensland
Project development/Music Composition
On contract to the Education Office of the Queensland Performing Arts Complex:

· A series of public workshop/lecture/demonstrations of state-of-the-art digital music and video technology, featuring sampling of body percussion with audience participation, live video with digital special effects, triggered by audience-composed music; one lecture was broadcast live with phone-in feedback / participation, on statewide T.V.

· developed and conducted a series of music/video workshops for the disabled, and another series for terminally ill teenagers, composing music in a group using MIDI percussion triggers, and sampled sounds to tell stories; digital music and live video effects allowed for creation of "instant" video clips with positive body image and life experience outcomes.

· developed and conducted workshops for a small group of leading Brisbane young composers in compostion techniques using the Fairlight C.M.I.

· Digital music/video Installation, Concert Hall Foyer

· Live digital music performance, Foyers program, supporting "The Thunderbirds" live
stage production, Lyric Theatre

· Workshop in story-telling incorporating digital sound collage

1988 Brisbane Expo' 88, Brisbane, Qld.
Video Producer
Commissioned to produce an “art video” to be projected on a giant screen on the Expo’ Riverstage, as a visual complement to the UNESCO International Youth Orchestra's performances of Gershwin's "An American in Paris"; (collaborated with Paul Rainsford Towner).

1988 Brisbane Expo' 88, Brisbane, Qld.
Music Composer and soundscape design
Commissioned to compose and record quadrophonic soundtracks for the 17 hi-tech animatronic 'floats' which toured the Expo' site daily as part of the QANTAS $3 mil. "Light Fantastic" parade project

1988 N.T. Arts Council, tour of remote communities, N.T.
music director/tutor
toured with Bill Davis, and leading aboriginal contemporary musicians including Frank Yamma; 26 concerts in 28 days with daily workshops to aboriginal communities in music technology, P.A. systems and lighting

1987 Central Australian Aboriginal Media Association, Broome, W.A.
Recording Producer
Recorded traditional and contemporary aboriginal music of the Kimberley region. Artists recorded included "Scrap Metal" (featuring the Pigrim brothers) and 'demoed' the songs of Jimmy Chi which eventually became the hit stage show "Bran Nue Dae". www.caama.com.au/.

1985 to 1987
"Giant Steps", pop/rock band based in Byron Bay
band leader and business manager, graphic designer; music video director
innovative professional rock band; toured N.S.W.; support artists for leading Australian contemporary music acts including Cold Chisel, Black Sorrows, Divynals, Dragon, Goanna, Icehouse; produced a large body of experimental music videos; music video "Much More" broadcast on A.B.C. "Rage"

1986 La Boite Theatre, Brisbane, Qld
Composer / music director
Compose songs and incidental music for Grant Frazer's hit play "Summertime Blues". http://www.laboite.com.au/default.htm

1986 N.T. Department of Education & the Central Australian Aboriginal Media Association, Alice Springs
Radio producer/music arranger/composer
produced, in collaboration with Bill Davis, two series of 20 half hour radio programmes, entitled “Bushfire Radio” featuring songs, stories, and amusing "health jingles" featuring innovative digital audio collage and early experiments in digital music; aimed at fostering sense of place and local community pride and creativity; an album was released which is still selling today, and the first series won a CBAA "Golden Reel Award" for community radio, and was runner up in the international "Pater Awards". http://www.cbaa.org.au/content.php/404.html

1985 "Dreams and Machines" Vols 1 and 2, Byron Bay, N.S.W.
recording artist/producer
Released retrospective double album of excerpts from various experimental music commissions; designed packaging and advertising material

1985 Central Australian Aboriginal Media Association, Alice Springs
music industry consultant
commissioned to research and prepare culturally appropriate music business contracts and supporting explanatory material for use between C.A.A.M.A. and aboriginal bands and artists; resulting documents were translated into aboriginal languages; gave workshops in Copyright, A.P.R.A., professional issues relating to a rock band as a small business; also produced and recorded a series of 'call sign' jingles for C.A.A.M.A. radio

1982 to 1985
Music Farm Recording Studios, Byron Bay
session musician
worked as session guitarist and vocalist on a huge variety of projects including "The Pirate Movie" soundtrack, regional, state and national TV commercials including Cadbury's, Solo, Coca-Cola

1985 Queensland Performing Arts Trust, Concert Hall, Brisbane, Queensland
Writer/Director and Composer
commissioned to write and direct a multimedia concert/performance art piece entitled "Dreams and Machines", featuring the (then state-of-the-art) 'Fairlight Computer Music Instrument' (C.M.I.), 'Fairlight VoiceTracker'and 'Fairlight Computer Video Instrument' to demonstrate the future of digital technology in a multimedia performing arts context; also featured live video and live video synthesis effects projected on a giant screen, a 10 member modern dance group, wind quintet, 5 piece rock band, vocalists and additional digital technology. http://www.qpac.com.au/at_qpac/venues/concert_hall/

1985 Central Australian Aboriginal Media Association, Alice Springs
Music recording technology consultant
employed to research, purchase and set up a mobile recording studio with the aim of recording contemporary aboriginal music. Studio later permanently located at Alice Springs. Toured Qld, NSW and WA recording aboriginal music

1984 La Boite Theatre, Brisbane, Qld
Composer / Music Director/ Actor
Wrote & Composed (and programmed the digital music score) for "Goodnight World" , a rock musical spoofing the spate of doomsday theories and religious cults; cast of 20; 3 additional musicians; excellent review in "the Australian". Script assistance by Gerald Frape. Theatre in the round, directed by Mary Hickson. http://www.laboite.com.au/default.htm

1983 Sydney Water Authority, Coffs Harbour
Soundtrack composer/post-production sound
Composed & edited sound for "Sinbad the Sewerage Sailor"; a light-hearted documentary for schools, explaining the contemporary approach to waste treatment; directed by Paul Rainsford Towner.

1982 N.S.W. Education Department, Lismore, N.S.W.
Soundtrack composer
Composed soundtracks for video program distributed to schools, entitled "This is Australia Today"

1982 The Palms Theatre Restaurant, Bangalow, N.S.W.
writer/director/actor
wrote and directed the season of "It's No Picture Show"; starring Barry Ferrier, Rodney Gooch, Glenda Lum, Gerald Frape.

1981 Rochdale Theatre, Lismore Theatre
composer/actor
recorded the soundtrack and acted lead role in "Beach", surrealist theatre piece, written and directed by Paul Rainsford Towner

1978 to 1980
R.C.A. Corporation, Sydney
Recording Artist
Recording original songs as the duo Lindon/Ferrier with multi instrumentalist/vocalist Cammie Lindon, and managed by Harry Widmer;
· Support act in acoustic mode for Ry Cooder at the Palais Theatre, Melbourne
· toured as the support for the Norman Gunston Chrismas Show; (yes, really!)
· television appearances included Molly Meldrum's legendary "Countdown" and the Ray Martin Midday Show.

·live broadcast for JJJ network in duo with Cammie Lindon

1978 Australian Broadcasting Commission, Sydney , N.S.W.
Composer / Music Director
Composed recorded & produced music for ABC Radio drama's production of " The White Bird"

1978 Nimrod Theatre Co., The Stables, Sydney
Composer
Composed incidental music to the production of Anthony Schaffer's "Whodunnit?"

1977 Lindsay Kemp Mime Company, The Roundhouse, London
Music Composer/performer
Performed in the influential Kemp production of “Flowers” in New Arts Cinema, Sydney and Comedy Theatre, Melbourne;
Composed the innovative quadraphonic electronic score for Kemp's "Salome"; this score described by the London Times as "thrilling"; 18 month sell-out season at London’s Roundhouse. (Collaborated with Andrew Thomas Wilson). Click here for a profile of Lindsay Kemp.

1977 "Joseph and the Amazing Technicolour DreamCoat",
York Theatre, Seymour Centre, Sydney, N.S.W.
Actor/vocalist
Among a cast of Australian stars including Mark Holden, played "Simeon" and "Potiphar",

1977 "The Ferretts", Melbourne
Bass Guitarist
Toured as bass guitarist with No. 1 charting pop group, former members of the original "Jesus Christ Superstar" cast.

1977 "The Astounding Optimissimos in 'Paradise: Depression Style'", Pram Factory, Melbourne
actor
experimental comedy directed by Jean Pierre Mignon (Australian National Theatre)

1977 Flying Trapeze Theatre Restaurant, Melbourne, Victoria
writer/director/actor
co-wrote and performed in the ensemble production of experimental theatre/cabaret show "Kabaratz" ; wrote and directed the season of "The Milky Way Cabaret Show" which later toured as "The Silent Scream Show". Experimental mixed media production with projections and sound collage.

1976 J. Albert & Son, King St. Studios
Composer/ Recording Producer
Recorded an album of the rock musical "Magical Frank", featuring Reg Livermore, and 'King of Pop' John Paul Young, the Ferretts and Arthur Dignam; this mixed-media musical theatre piece ran for 1 month at the Total Theatre, Melbourne

1976 Crest International , Melbourne
Record producer/composer
composed "The Boy Who Dared to Dream" in collaboration with lyricist Frank Howson; produced L.P. recording starring John Waters, Trevor White and Tommy Dysart, numerous mixed-media stage productions

1975 National Rock Theatre, Melbourne
actor/musician
campus tour of politically inspired musical comedy entitled "Africa: the Savage Musical"; written & directed by Steve J. Spears (of ‘Elocution of Benjamin Franklin’ fame)

1975 American Express Corporation, Sydney
actor
appeared with Karl Malden, as “the hippy handbag snatcher” in the internationally released American Express commercial

1974 “Jesus Christ, SuperStar”; Harry M. Miller Productions, Capitol Theatre Sydney & Palais Theatre, Melbourne
Actor/Vocalist
played an Apostle, and worked as utility understudy for minor parts including Peter, Caiaphus and the Pharisees etc, thus enjoyed a stage apprenticeship playing a different role most nights.

1970 to 1974

2JJ live concert appearance; MD for Dobie Gray (of "Drift Away" fame); band leader/guitarist.

Jeff St. John Band, Sydney
lead guitarist
band leader for legendary Australian vocalist

1974 Sunberry Pop Festival, Melbourne Victoria
musician
performed as guitarist with Colin Hay of "Men at Work"

1972 Australian School of Radio & Television & the A.B.C., Sydney, N.S.W.
actor and music arranger
lead acting role in the film "Second Time Straight" written and directed by Craig Kirshner; also produced soundtrack song "Feelings" and incidental music

1970 Composed the music in collaboration with Roderick Morgan for an experimental 16mm film made by student film maker Phil Noyce

history

03 Aug

Other Self-penned Musicals - Magical Frank & Squizzy Taylor

Barry Ferrier met playwright and later film maker Frank Howson in the cast of Jesus Christ Superstar through a mutual acquaintance with opera singer Peter North who played the deep voiced Caiaphus in the show. They first collaborated on the childrens rock musical "The Faraway Land of Magical Frank". Frank Howson submitted the demo tape (which Barry made with Billy Miller later of the Ferrets fame, Shayna Steward - known for her work with the progressive rock band the "Tully", and other cast memebers and musicians form Jesus Christ Superstar, which was recorded live on a two track TEAC at an old house on the harbour at Manly) to Alberts Productions in Sydney and it found its way to the desk of the head of classical music Dr. Franz Holford. A distinguished figure in Australian classical music, Holford saw great merit in the musical compositions and took on the project with a passion. In what was a very unusual move for the staid Alberts classical music catalogue, the company began recording an LP album of the music . The featured singers were Billy Miller as "Magical Frank", Arthur Dignam as "Merlin", Reg Livermore as "the Owl", John Paul Young as "the Kid' and Shayna Stewart as "the Princess", with Barry and Frank also playing cameo roles as "The Man Without a Smile" and "The Gardner" respectively.

CEO Ted Albert, who as a teenager had been the engineer on the Easybeats recordings, took time out from his huge commitments heading up the Alberts Music corporation to take a personal interest in the project and took on the role of recording engineer with Barry Ferrier producing.

Ted Albert and the very young and inexperienced Barry Ferrier formed an unusual friendship from hours in the studio together, and Ted began mentoring Barry's career for a short while, until historical events changed the course of this project. The album was completed including the cover art but at this crucial point Alberts were swamped by the huge success of AC/DC and shelved all the projects they had in hand as tax write-offs as the rallied to meet the challenge of having such a world wide mega success on their hands. The album was never released and still languishes in their vaults, Ted Albert having died prematurely from a life long heart issue.

Frank Howson secured a season for the musical at the Total Theatre in Melbourne and the show was performed for a six week season with the Ferrets supplying the musical backing, actress Lisa Peers as the Owl, Graham Matters as Frank, Frank Howson as the narrator and Bill Binks, Peter Noble and Tommy Dysart (both cast members of the original Jesus Christ Superstar) also appearing.

Because of a contractual dispute that erupted between Frank and a potential venue, Barry also wrote, in record time (one week!), the music for a second children's musical with Frank's libretto entitled "The Boy Who Dared to Dream". This was later recorded by Crest International featuring the voices of Trevor White (Jesus in Jesus Christ Superstar), John Waters, Brenda Kristen, and Barry Ferrier and it too was performed for a season in Melbourne.

Barry and Frank also collaborated on a jazz opera based on the life of notorious melbourne underworld figure and ganster Leslie "Squizzy" Taylor. The original demo featured Colin Hay of Men at Work as Squzzy and Frank secured an album deal with Mushroom Records which was to star Wendy Matthews and John Paul Young. The pre-publicity for the album during the 10BA tax period for film making turned out to be a mistake as a movie on the same theme was rushed into production which scuttled the Howson Ferrier album project.

In the 90s Frank secured funding for a film version of the opera, and a second demo was made of an updated version which Barry Ferrier also was using as a PhD project. The project seemed to be jinxed however, - a housefire destoyed these recordings and simultaneously Frank's film company was driven into bankruptcy through the embezzlement of funds by a director and the project stalled for a second time.

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12 »End

Grab a cup of coffee. Let's relax...

Doctor Baz History (21)

Giant Steps

Beach

40 Years Playing Music in Byron Bay

"Barry does Byron" - Interview with Many Nolan, Byron Echo.

The Kukunarri Show - Tiwi Islands

Nguiu, Tiwi Islands

Creative Personnel

Performers

Tracks Dance 1998

Dr. Baz Gig Poster Archive

The Astounding Optimissimos in 'Paradise: Depression Style

Poco Loco: Australian Nuevo Flamenco Trio Tours Norway

A Thousand Bands

Curriculum Vitae

Other Self-penned Musicals - Magical Frank & Squizzy Taylor

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Doctor Baz

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