Trinity College welcomes John Butler

On Thursday 18th May 2006, the Trinity College music students were treated with a visit from John Butler, one of Australia’s finest contemporary musicians. When John is not touring internationally, he spends a significant amount of time in Fremantle, home to his busking many years ago. John spoke of his experiences in the music industry and inspired the students with his story; one of following your passion and intuition, working hard, surrounding yourself with good and talented people and looking out for each other. John answered many of the students’ questions in a thoughtful, articulate and honest way. The boys warmed to his natural and often humorous approach. John picked up his guitar to demonstrate how he wrote songs. In doing so, he took the students on a dynamic journey. ‘Take your listeners to the beach, to the city, to the bush…’ he said. John played the introduction to Better Man, requested by a senior student, and this was met with enthusiastic applause. John has gratitude for being able to make a living doing what he loves. We are grateful for being able to spend the afternoon with this compassionate folk, blues and ‘roots’ artist. After reflecting on John Butler’s sentiments, the words of Robert Louis Stevenson (1850 to 1894) came to mind:

"Don't judge each day by the harvest you reap but by the seeds you plant"

Ms Ruth Bott
Performing Arts Coordinator

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