Back in Torshavn

Well, Mykines was an experience! Those of you who went to my concert in Kinbuck will remember that the sound track to “Drrrunnn” by Kristian Blak was recorded here, so I was excited about visiting. The island is at the far NW corner of the Faroes archipelago, so you can imagine that it gets everything the Atlantic can throw at it. 6 of us arrived by helicopter, just before the weather really got interesting. Everyone but me was on a one night trip and got out in a brief weather window. So now I was the only visitor on an island with just 10 year-round residents.

I managed a walk to the top of the hill, which is also the top of the cliffs, but unfortunately the wind was far too strong to walk to the end of Mykinesholmur.

Having the house to myself was the perfect opportunity to get some solid practice done – much-needed with some concerts coming up. I also finished a piece I have been writing inspired by the Tvisongur sound sculpture in Seydisfjordur, Iceland.

The wind was wild that night, but I enjoyed being cosy in the house. Tuesday morning dawned pretty much the same, so it was another intense practice session! By coffee time, though, things had calmed down enough for a wander to the sea, and what a sight it was! Waves were crashing up to 30m up the cliffs. In the afternoon I wandered up into the hills/mist. It was beautiful in the village by now but still pretty rough on top!

This morning dawned bright and sunny, which was a relief as I was due to fly out! I decided to say goodbye to the place by taking the viola to the top of the cliffs and playing “Drrrunnn.” I’m glad I got to see the full force of the weather and I enjoyed the solitude, but if I’m 100% honest, I’m not sure I like being confined to such a small patch of land – and I was hungry ekeing out my rations!

Back in Torshavn things are busy. I spent a lovely couple of hours at Kristian’s practising, talking and stroking the cat! I now have a concert fixed up in the Havnar Kirkja, Torshavn on Saturday at 11.30. I’m really looking forward to playing here and sharing my music.

On the way home I dropped by the music school and spent a lovely half hour playing with the senior orchestra. What a happy, welcoming group of students. I look forward to working further with them at the weekend.

Finally, I made it back to the tent and a well-earned pizza!