Hello and Welcome to my new look website! So glad you've dropped by!

I've been living in Perth for less than a year, and already I've had one trip back to Melbourne, and almost three months overseas – in Germany and the USA. The reason: speaking at conferences and doing research for my Doctorate. My Doctorate (which I am doing at Curtin University here in Perth) is taking most of my time these days, but not to worry – as a creative doctorate it allows me to write songs and work on my performance skills in general. In fact I will shortly be heading into an extended period of creative production, beginning with a month of songwriting. Bliss!!!

I am only recently back from my overseas trip and I had an amazing time. People, cities – New York and Berlin no less! – food, green hills of Virginia, puppetry in Pittsburgh. I went to a festival in the USA, where I got to hear the amazing Red Molly and Wailin Jennys (two female trios), not to mention a fab Jazz club in Philadelphia, and Cafe Wha in New York – I believe Bob Dylan used to play here, but I just enjoyed an evening of fabulous rock n roll. I went to an amazing folk school evening in Chicago, and in Virginia I went to an evening of local hill music, and tried out Contra Dancing. Wow! I'd have to say my musical highlights though were a couple of the acts on the open stage at the festival, and a busker at The big "Mauer" (wall) flea market in Berlin. Man that woman could sing – and the way she jumped around with her guitar was truly gifted. Pity I couldn't understand the German lyrics.

Despite the time my doctorate takes, I am still finding time for other music engagements. A gig in Bunbury before I went away, and a house concert in Fremantle less than a week after I got home.

I am also doing some singing teaching (follow the links to Finding Your Voice), and am hoping to set up some workshops really soon. And perhaps take on leading a community choir…..

See you round the traps, and don't forget to get in touch if you would like to book me as a performer, vocal specialist or workshop facilitator; go on my email list; or have some other great musical idea you'd like to explore with me.

raelenebruinsma@yahoo.com       0439 722 470