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About Ian

I am a speaker, a writer, and ex Head of the Performing Arts degree programme at the University of Otago, Dunedin, where I taught music for 21 years following an earlier career as a professional musician. I have three children – just one left at home now – and I live on the beautiful Otago Peninsula where I write (and go fishing) from my boat shed.

I am also a long-established music correspondent on Radio New Zealand where I regularly champion new music from Otepoti Dunedin in addition to addressing a plethora of other music-related topics from the deadly serious to the frivolously humorous.

Life is good.

Do get in contact if you’d like me to speak at your event.

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Black and white photo of a musician singing into a microphone, wearing sunglasses, a hat, and a shiny jacket, with a pianist in the background.

For bookings, media and general enquiries, please get in touch. Speaking engagements are individually tailored for clients needs after consultation. 

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