We are thrilled to present Royal Wood for two shows at Glenn Gould Studio (April 1 and April 10). The self-taught, multi-instrumentalist (who just happened to be named one of the iTunes ‘Songwriters of the Year’ in 2008) shares his thoughts for Soundboard readers. Here he discusses the social luxury and fortunes of being a Canadian performing artist and shares a glimpse into life on the road and overseas.
By Royal Wood
As a human being, I am blessed. I am one of the fortunate ones. I live in a country that allows free speech and celebrates diversity. We have public healthcare, and public radio, and government funded arts programs – most importantly though we have public education.
Anyone in this beautiful land of ours, with the determination and thirst for knowledge can obtain their high school diploma and beyond. Education is the key to a civilized world. Without it one is not aware of their rights. Nor are they cognizant of the existence of other cultures and ideas. It is because of these blessings that I was able to achieve my dream. As a child I longed to make art. Art that would not only satisfy my emotional needs and desires, but art that would earn a living and most importantly allow me the ability to travel this wonderful country and beyond.
In doing so I have met so many incredible people and witnessed so many awe inspiring sites. Be it the mountains of Canmore, Alberta or the shores of PEI, I have beheld the spark that fueled the very notion of a God. On my most recent trip performing in Europe, I found myself with a few extra days in the Irish countryside in the village of Slane. It is in the County of Meath and is the very picture of rolling hills and castle ruins you would hope to stumble upon in Ireland. Not far away from Slane lies the 5000 year old passage tomb known as Newgrange. It is one of the most famous prehistoric places on the planet. The reason being is that every winter solstice on Dec 21st, a narrow beam of sunlight will temporally illuminate the floor of the chamber at the end of the long passageway. The tomb itself has not leaked in 5000 years and remains a constant stable temperature. If one ever wanted to be inspired by another cultures ability to make tangible the intangible, than I suggest taking the pilgrimage.
Life is indeed what we make it.
Guest contributor Royal Wood performs two shows at Glenn Gould Studio, April 1 and April 10
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