Marian's Blog

TUI AWARDS - M.L.T. SONGWRITING AWARDS 2010

2010-07-08T00:36:00.000-07:00

1. Tami Neilson and Lauren Thompson - Half time at the Tuis

2. Cameron Luxton, Wendy Thornton, Anna McDonald, Me, Tami Neilson, Lauren Thompson

and Donna Luxton

3. Mataura Licencing Trust - Songwriting Awards. Lauren won, and Tami came runner-up
Wendy Anna Me Tami and Lauren - Disturbing isn't it!!

1. TAYLOR AND MAKAYLA WITH TAMI at the TUI AWARDS.

2. WENDY AND I GOT TO ACTUALLY T O U C H THE TUI TROPHY.

TAYLA AND MAKAYLA WITH TAMI AT THE M.L.T SONGWRITERS AWARD NIGHT

SUZUKI WORKSHOP CHRISTCHURCH JULY 2010

2010-07-07T23:54:00.000-07:00

AWESOME MUSICIANS.

BUT WAIT THERE'S MORE...

AND MORE....

AN AMAZING FOUR DAYS TEACHING AWESOME STUDENTS.

AND THE ADDITIONAL TASK WAS TO INCLUDE THE GUITARISTS, CELLISTS AND VIOLISTS TO AN ALREADY LARGE NUMBER OF VIOLINISTS... AND CREATE A FIDDLING FRENZY ON THE FINAL DAY AT THE END OF WORKSHOP 'PLAYOUT"

AND ALL I CAN SAY IS

WOW.

ABOVE ARE SOME PICS OF THE AWESOME TALENTED KIDS I ENCOUNTERED AT WESTBURN SCHOOL, CHRISTCHURCH FROM JULY 4TH TO THE 7TH 2010.

GOOD MORNNG SHOW JULY 13 2010

2010-06-28T22:31:00.000-07:00

BRENDON AND HAYDEN AT T.V.N.Z STUDIO IN WELLINGTON

ON JUNE 29TH . EARLY START TO PRE RECORD A WEE SNIPPET .

HANDS OF FAME INDUCTION - JUNE 2ND 2010

2010-06-28T22:21:00.000-07:00

Dargaville 29th May 2010

2010-06-28T21:59:00.001-07:00

NEAT SHOW AT DARGAVILLE TOWN HALL ON MAY 29TH. SADLY HAD TO DO THE SHOW WITH BROKEN FOOT, BUT ALL WENT WELL.

PIC. 1: GRAEME MCARDLE AND I BOTH ON CRUTCHERS FANCY THAT

PIC. 2: MUDDY RIVER BAND.. YAHOOO!

PIC. 3: MAURENE AND LORRAINE WITH - NOW WHAT'S THIS MANS NAME?

PIC. 4: KANIESHA IN THE MIDDLE SPORTING HER PINK T - SHIRT

PIC. 5: NEAT SHOT WITH MAURENE AND LORRAINE

PIC. 6: MR KUMARA
PIC. 7: BREAKFAST AT "BLAH BLAH BLAH"
PIC. 8: KEINAN NGAPO AND CARLEEN STILL

PIC. 9: MUDDY RIVER RIVER BAND BLOODY AWESOME

PIC 10. CHAD THE AWESOME DRUMMER.

Barney and Cameron - April 2010

2010-06-28T21:53:00.000-07:00

OPERATUNITY - Day for the IRISH

2010-05-15T22:14:00.000-07:00

Susan Boland - Cameron Barclay - Alex Wiltshire - John Cameron and Myself

Hi there, Well the tour is going well. So far we've played in: Taupo, Gisbourne, Hastings, Kapiti, Palmerston North, Wanganui, New Plymouth, Botony, Whangarei, Orewa, Mairangi Bay, Papakura, Avondale, and Invercargill, and it's been amazing.

Mosgiel Tomorrow ( 17th May) and Waimate tomorrow night. Timaru, Christchurch, Greymouth and finishing with 2 shows in Nelson.

A Day for the Irish has brought our audiences out in their green bits and pieces and the sing alongs have been magnificent. New Zealand Senior Citizens CAN SING!!! MAN THEY CAN SING.

Bang smack in the middle of the Auckland concerts, at home, I stepped back on what I thought was one step but was two, and fell to the ground only to break a bone in my foot. A wee challenge for the fiddler who can't stand still, but the shows must go on. (to my doctors disgust) Four to Six weeks in plaster - but I'm not allowed the real one on until after I've flown home.

I'm learning a whole lot about wheelchairs and crutches and finding muscles I never thought I had. I have a new appreciation of people who practically live in wheelchairs. You are amazing!!

will post some pics when I get back home.

See You.
Hop a long Burns. Ha!

Brendon Heffernan 17 Aug 1955 - 21 April 2010

2010-04-22T03:52:00.000-07:00

All the good times -the memories - the laughs - the stupidity - the bad parking - the tickets - the clowning around - the love - smiles - winks - the gentleness - the irish songs - Delaney Had a Donkey.. Danny Boy - the karaoke nights - All By Myself - Where do you go to my Lovely - flaming sambuccas - Zanzibar - Lime Bar - any bar - cigars - Paulette - red roses - Jeannine - Grant - Richard - Carl - Willis - Sharpie - Rick and Jane ... Truda - Sarah darling Sarah - Mom and Bill visits - Piha - Speedway - Bevan & Enid - Mad Dogs - BRIAGH - JOE - Santa Parade - Irish Parade - Birthday after birthday - Starship Hospital - JULIE - Sunflowers - Caroline - great plans - D 49 - no plans - run aways - West Coast Dunny - Gorilla - James Taylor - Brave Heart - Shadowlands - With or Without you - RICHARD AND NOELINE - carpentry - brick laying - property - Flooding - Cleaning - lost tools - lost clothes - lost keys -lost - lost - lost - oh no that's right he just gave them all away - KAREN - Danny - Norfolk - Kenny Rogers - Lady - Golf caddy - Emily Bay - LUCIA - Wednesday nights - Neil Diamond - Serena - Sona - Occam occam and more breakfasts at occam - Shared Soups - DAVE - cousin Chris - the races - McSweeney Brothers - Ohagans - flat whites - cigarette smoke - Radars - Son of a Preacher Man - CHRISTALL. JANE - movies - more karaoke - wine - SUSAN - kidney - family visits - England Ireland - MUM - rosary beads - sunflowers - doctors - clinics - waiting rooms - takapuna beach - GLYN - Avatar - Suzy - SHERRY - Northcote Tavern - more karaoke with Craig - Jeannine - CHRISSY - guides -angels - love - light - direction - SHARRON - PALM SPRINGS - music - friends - beach walks - green tea - palm Springs - noodles - friendship - Nurse - meds -almonds - LOVE - forgiveness - realisation - requium - too early for that sad FM stuff - hard work - effort - positivity - no such thing as 'can't' - DENISE - Riverhead - Cafe - JOSEPH - stretcher on wheels - up the hill down the hill up the hill home - ramps - love - determination - pools - human again - focus - realisation - peace - no sugar - bake beans and scrambled eggs - Erin Shore - butterflies - peace - smiles - angel - JULIA - CATHERINE - MARIA - ODETTE - DONAL - Danny Boy

Thanks for all these memories Brendon.

North Shore Diabetes Support Group Celebration

2010-04-14T06:04:00.000-07:00

It was the 20th Birthday Celebrations for this wonderful North Shore Diabetes Support Group, on Tuesday the 13th of April.

We had a beautiful lunch at Fairway Lodge in Glenfield, and were joined by The Mayor of North Shore City.

I was playing a few fiddle tunes, and had some awesome guests getting up to play and dance - namely John, Marguerite and The Mayor himself.

.. ta da... and here he is sporting one of my - Just Fiddling Around - T Shirts, for his efforts in playing and dancing - and to my great surprise he put it on and wore it all afternoon. What a honey!!

Sue Pearson, Thanks for asking me to enteratain. It was a really neat day.

Cheers!

MARBECKS BROWNS BAY

2010-04-11T15:57:00.000-07:00

On Saturday I was invited by Paul at Marbecks Browns Bay to play in the store.

I met these awesome people, had lots of laughs and sold lots of DVDs and CDs.

Thanks Everyone.

Marian

HOBBIT BURNS

2010-03-20T19:55:00.000-07:00

SOME GUYS FROM THE ITALIAN SAILING CREW STOPPED BY

O'HAGANS ON ST PATRICK'S DAY.

I AM SOOOO SHORT...

THEY ARE SOOOO GORGEOUS. NOT TO MENTION EVER SO SLIGHTLY TALLER

HEEHEE.

KERMY AND THE IRISH CLAPPERS

2010-03-20T19:51:00.001-07:00

JEFF, GAIL, KAREN (MY SIS) DAVE (MY BROTHER IN LAW)

AND KERMY.... ALL HAD A VERY IRISH TIME ON ST. PATRICKS DAY

A DAY AT THE VIADUCT

2010-03-20T19:43:00.000-07:00

1. Tracy bought a DVD at Manurewa Cosi Club. Go Tracy!! Enjoy

2. The Crowd at the Viaduct - St Paddy's Day

3. Same - Awesome Crowd

4. The McSweeney Brothers - St Patrick's Day

ST PATRICKS DAY CELEBRATIONS

2010-03-20T19:34:00.001-07:00

A GREAT DAY. LOTS OF GREEN.. LOTS OF GUINNESS.. LOTS OF IRISH MUSIC.. LOTS OF GREAT FRIENDS.. ROCK ON 2011

Jessica Price Joined me at O'Hagans.

2010-03-15T02:35:00.000-07:00

'Twas fantastic playing with one of my ex fiddling pupils.

Jessica Dougherty, now Jessica Price was magnificent as her and I played a very fast Drowsy Maggie together.

St Practice Day Fun! Ha!! 13th March 2010

2010-03-15T02:22:00.000-07:00

Last Saturday at the Viaduct - Eddie Mac and I played at O'Hagans. 12.00 - 3.00 p.m.

We had a great time. 'Twas fantastic meeting some of these very cool people. All in preparation for This coming Wednesday - yes ST PATRICKS DAY.

May see you there. McSweeney Brothers are playing at 11.00 to 4.30 p.m.

Then we play at THE PROSPECT in Howick from 8.00 - 12.00.

May see you there!!!

Don't forget to wear green!!

My Year 6 Classes at Marina View

2010-03-15T02:16:00.000-07:00

Last Friday I took some pics of my awesome ukulele classes.. these are my year six kids.

Room twenty (pic 1) performed an item at assembly and it rocked!!

Baby Shamrocks. Gift from Nigel

2010-03-15T02:07:00.000-07:00

Nigel came up and presented me with this little pot of Shamrocks.

The seeds had been sent to him from Ireland,

so he grew some and I was very lucky to receive some.

Thanks Nigel.

How gorgeous are these??

Saints and Sinners Night

2010-03-15T01:44:00.000-07:00

Jackie, Lauren and Tami had their last show in Auckland on March 7th 2010. It was so good to see and hear them perform together again. Nice show ladies!

Craig said he thought they were The Country version of 'The Lady Killers'

Ivan, Craig, Karen, Phill and I headed out to the White Lady for a burger after the show.

Bar Africa - March 7th 2010

2010-03-15T01:37:00.000-07:00

Popped up to have lunch with hubby. Trevor Stevens and James Ray were doing their Accoustic Sunday Session. I Got up and had a bit of a jam with the guys. George got up to sing too.

Such a neat thing to do. Check out Bar Africa - William Pickering Drive - Albany

every Sunday - 12.00 to 3.00 p.m.

Hamilton Gardens 28 Feb 2010

2010-03-15T01:02:00.000-07:00

HEY EVERYONE

HERE'S A FEW PICS FROM OUR AWESOME GIG IN

THE BEAUTIFUL HAMILTON GARDENS.

28TH FEBRUARY 2010

THE BACKING BAND WHO WERE SUPERB WERE "TIGHT AZ"

T.C. ON BASS, PHILL DOUBLET ON LEAD,

RENNY HANTLER ON RHYTHM GUITAR,

AND NEIL REYNOLDS ON DRUMS.

THE SHOW WAS

JAMES RAY, TAMI NEILSON AND MARIAN BURNS

THANKS TO THOSE WHO CAME DOWN

BROWNS BAY MARBECKS

2010-03-08T01:10:00.000-08:00

Hey everyone I've got my DVD's in Browns Bay Marbecks CD and DVD Store.
That is so cool..
Send someone in to buy one.. xoxoox

Marian

Bernard's 80th at Wildfire Takapuna

2010-02-23T23:07:00.000-08:00

Bernard celebrated his 80th Birthday, and Nola asked me to come and entertain.

It was an awesome party and He seemed to really enjoy the fiddling.

Cheers to you Bernard. (thanks for the pic. Nola)

Clint is one hell of a fiddler!!

2010-02-22T18:58:00.000-08:00

Yes this is Clint!

He got up and had a jam with me at the Dairy Flat Hall

function last Saturday 20th of Feb.

Good on ya !!

Mean Dancer - Mean Fiddler!!!

Valentine's Day - Go Phillip!!

2010-02-19T01:52:00.001-08:00

My darling greeted me at the Airport with this gorgeous "I Love You' balloon and a red rose. But wait... there's a wee story.

I came down the escalator - as you do - through the doors into the body of the Domestic Terminal, fiddle case in one hand and small bag in the other... mmmm.. well, my small bag got completely caught up in the metal bars which then set off ALL the alarms and automatically closed the doors and trapped me in. It was indeed the longest 40 seconds of my life, and all the people watching and waiting for their loved one to come through those doors, were ever so slightly amused.... and one woman said - and quite loudly and proudly .. "Now that's how you make an entrance!!" Phill told me he was sitting there thinking, "I don't know that person, I don't know that person!" Ha..

Well when I finally freed myself from my wee prison, I went up to Phill who was holding this gorgeous helium balloon and rose. You couldn't help but notice it... A beautiful moment.

We got to the car, and he'd out done himself.... there stacks of red white and pink balloons blown on the floors and seats, and a lovely card.

I'm usually the crazy 'heart' freak on St Valentine's Day, but this year, I'd left it since I was in Lawrence for nearly all of Sunday. So.... Top marks Phill. Love you too.!!!!! and Thanks, that was special. Very High on Wife Factor!!

RODEO 25TH CELEBRATION PICS

2010-02-15T03:11:00.000-08:00

I had such a ball with Ross Lyders and the team down at Lawrence this weekend.
Lynette picked me up from the airport and was just fabulous taking me everywhere I needed to go and back and go and back. xoxo Thank You!!
What a bugger about the Saturday weather, But the gardens got a long overdue water, so that was good... Saturday night the Hoedown was AWESOME!!!!!
The band was "Forbidden Fruits" with Andy Gilmore - Lead Guitar and wicked Meat Loafey Vocals, Catherine Short - stunning vocals and percussion, and Peter..oops what's your last name Peter? - Keyboards and vocals. What a band. (missed ya Marcel!! xox)

1. Ross Lyders, me Boss.

2. Anthem House - where the National Anthem was composed

3. Lynette and her sister Chicken (Barbara) with the Clydesdales
4. Lynette ran me all over the place.

5. Chicken's Cool Gumboots

5. Catherine and Peter on the Beatle Juice
6. The Band - Forbidden Fruits - Catherine Short, Peter and Andy Gilmore and myself.
7. This little pet was on his Stag Night...

8. The Event

9. Yes yes.. they had me staying at Jafa's. Ha! Just Another F..iddling Aucklander!!

10 & 11 . Who in their right mind would ride these guys??
12. Guys and Gals getting ready for the day ahead.

New Zealand National Anthem

2010-02-15T03:03:00.000-08:00

Well it is of great interest to me.

I was in Lawrence, (just out from Dunedin) last weekend at the 25th Rodeo Celebrations, and it was pointed out to me that this was the house that the N.Z. National Anthem was composed in. (Thanks Catherine!!) Corner of Lismore and Lancaster Street.

The composer, John Woods wrote it and arranged it, and we sing it at school EVERY Friday at the start of our School Assembly. How cool.

So I'm sharing the pics with you. It's even called "Anthem House"

Dad's 80th Birthday

2010-01-27T03:06:00.000-08:00

Hey just got the pics from my Dad's 80th. 9th of Jan we celebrated his 80 years at The Brigham Restaurant.

Mum & Dad, Brian & Gabe Stacey Mike, Karen & Dave, Louise & Dan Delaney Saffron Honey, Michelle & John Vaughan, Christie, Jodie, Lucia, Denzel, Evelynn Millie Rupeka & Ethan, Rachelle & Bruce De ja , Aunty Lynda & Uncle Les, Uncle Eric called in, Marjory and Britt, Jacqui & Rod, Carrie Phill and Marian.

Apologies: Aunty Jean, Danny Boy, Roy Williams, Charles Brothers and Sisters in Australia, Col and Steve in Australia, Nandra Nanjef and Naresh, Ben

Cheers.

ANDREW CLERMONT'S SUPPER CLUB NIGHTS

2010-01-27T02:44:00.000-08:00

Spectacular event in itself. Andrews Supper Club Nights.

You turn up to the North Tamworth Bowling Club. Pay your $18.00 door charge, and sit down to watch a night of wonderment unfold, and when you leave you know you've just witnessed something quite unique. You have truly been entertained.

ost of the time there are seasoned performers who've travelled the world, and who have just called into Tamworth on the way to some other far away place. These guys and gals all have something different to offer. Sultry Jazz, swing, bit of classical, cajun, celtic and sometimes pure unadulterated FOLK. I'm not a FOLK girl at heart I have to admit, but there IS something for everyone.

Andrew also offers the opportunity for the young talent he's seen on the main street of Tamworth - they've usually been busting their guts in the heat all day long, to make some money, or sales or possibly to "get noticed". Well they get a chance to strut their stuff, and they're always given a huge round of applause - because they're usually A MAZ ING!!

It's all good.

The musicians I had on my night.. I just don't know their names. but they'd never played with me and we didn't know what would happen.... but it was lots of fun.

On this particular night I played Louisiana Saturday Night and Panhandle Rag. Yay. Everyone liked it, and even the musos had some fun.

A few nights later Mark and Tami got up and jammed with a fine lineup of musos. It started out as one person, and built up to an 11 piece band by the end of the song..

Thanks for fun Andrew.

Concert in the Orchard - Hikowai

2010-01-26T20:48:00.000-08:00

Hey there,

Came home from Tamworth, to then head down to Pauanui, - Hikowai to play at the Concert in the Orchard.

A W E S O M E !!!

Caught up again with good friends, Alan and Mary Hitchens. Had wine and nibbles and picnic tea, and then fiddled with Will Martin. (He's so young)

The concert was a ripping success for me. I got Shania Allport - one of my violin pupils to play on stage with me. People came down and danced on the dirt and grass.

Kids had balloons and it was a huge party atmosphere. Sold heaps of T -shirts DVDS and CDs. yay. The local Primary School Choir - The Hikowaaiins sang. They were great too.

At the end of the night, we had supper with Annie and Gary, I had a wine or two or I think even three. oh oh.. and then we drove to the magnificent Puka Park Resort, where our room awaited. Woke tothe tuis outside the window, took photos and went back to bed.

Had Breakfast in Town, sold more DVDs and CDs at the table from passers by, and then headed back to Auckland. Nice having some time with Phill.

Here's some pics from the day. Cheers.

The Topic is TAMWORTH

2010-01-26T20:24:00.000-08:00

I went over to Tamworth with Tami Neilson and Mark Mazengarb. We flew in at 5.00 on the 14th got the cars, met up with Bell, and headed of from Sydney. Bot to Tamworth at 245. a.m and stayed with my lovely and wonderful friend, Glyn

15th we headed to the Vault where we secured 6 gigs for the week. (Thanks Col!) Kind of drew the short straw and got the morning shift. 9.00 to 11.00 a.m but that was at least something, and gave us the rest of the day to play with - so to speak.

Kevin from the band RUCKUS - great band - lent us his old P.A. System. (Thanks Kev!)

Tami's Dad made up some Great Posters overnight which came all the way from Canada! (thanks Ron!!) and we were off.

We jammed with Matt Zarb outside "Filling Groovy" the place to have yummy fruit smoothies and salads. and met with a young 16 year old.. Tallara. Awesome guitar style !!

A fantastic lot of gigs at the Vault. Had plenty of people attend and made some great music together.

Tami and Mark were in the Carter and Carter Gospel Show at the Capitol Theatre. The other guests were, Michael King, Asley Dallas, and Leanne did awesome harmonies through the whole show. You rocked Leanne!!

Mark got a radio interview, and we all sat around the table at home with the tranny. Just like the old old days.

Lots of fun times.

The Golden Fiddle Awards

2010-01-26T20:00:00.000-08:00

I was presented with an award, by the Golden Fiddle Awards Committee in the Tamworth TownHall on the 21st of January.

Thank you Mark Mitchell, director of the Golden Fiddle Awards. xoxo That was so awesome.

Thanks Ken Newton for posting such lovely pics on the powerpoint presentation. xoxo

Pixie Jenkins won this award last year and presented it to me this year, and not only that, but Andrew Clermont came out on stage with a gi-normous Chocolate Cake in the shape of a fiddle - bigger than my violin case.. Just gorgeous. and yes that hint of australian humour.... there were white sheep on it and it did read ... .."baaaa" ha!

I cried. What a neat surprise.

I also got to catch up and play with Garry Steel, my FAVOURITE accordion / keyboard player in Tamworth.

Well folks. I celebrate my 40th year this year playing the violin.. what a note to leave Australia on.. I headed out to Sydney at 6.a.m. the next morning.

A day never ever ever to forget.

Cheers

I've come home very proud to be a Kiwi AND a Girl!! Thanks Australia Fiddle Players. xoxo

Met up with Matt Zarb in Tamworth. Yay!!

2010-01-26T15:20:00.000-08:00

Well hello again Everyone.

A couple of new posts for you.

I got to Tamworth again. 2010 Got to meet up with Matt Zarb, an amazing energetic, brilliant guitarist, singer and harmonica player.

We got to jam together on Peel Street, and had the best time. His lovely wife Lesley was like a bright light. I so enjoyed meeting her, and all the other new muso friends.

Matt got Mark on his Radio Station, played his songs on air and then gave him a chance to play live on air... It just happened to be "Guitar Pickers"night. That was cool.

One young lady, just 16 years old - Tallara - was busking next to him and he got her up everyday to play through his P.A system.. Awesome. She was fantastic. Tami got up and sang "Superstitious" with her and she was just wrapped.

Matt, I just have to do some show with you. Love your energy,

Can't WAIT to work with you again.

2009-12-26T02:42:00.000-08:00

REALLY NEAT NEWS !!!

I'VE JUST BEEN INFORMED I'M ONE OF THE FINALISTS IN THE GOLDEN FIDDLE AWARDS IN TAMWORTH, AUSTRALIA, 2010.

I'M BLOWN AWAY.
THE AWARD CEREMONY IS ON JANUARY THE 21ST 2010.
I HAVE THE HONOUR OF PERFORMING THERE, AND BEING PART OF
SOMETHING VERY SPECIAL THAT DAY.

HOW COOL IS THAT???

A.P.P.A MUSIC FESTIVAL IN THE TOWN HALL

2009-11-24T03:01:00.000-08:00

These kids, wow.. They were simply the best.

Not the usual practice in the Music Room at Marina View

but playing to a sold out crowd of 2000 people, plus the

500 children sitting behind us on stage. so proud. and they all sported a

Just Fiddlin' Around T - shirt and looked fabulous.

We Played

Teddy Bears Picnic

Forty Pound Float

The Black Jelly Bean Reel

and Theme from Black Beauty - Galloping Home

Wow. I was so proud.

Got to say, thanks to Leigh (Phillipa's Mum) for all the work and running around

you did for us on Monday and Tuesday night, and for taking the big gear home in your car. Thanks so much.

The parents who came on the bus on Monday for the rehearsal -

including David who lugged our gear around the Town Hall. Thank you thank you thank you.

I took these kids above to McDonalds in Queen Street and shouted them.

They were very well behaved and polite.

The Choir Trainers dressed as the Holy Sisers for our

Sister Act Medley.

The dance routine was out of this world. You rockers!!

Awesome Gig at Bar Africa!!

2009-11-24T02:57:00.001-08:00

Tami Wendy and I had a blast on Sunday 8th of November.

Bar Africa was a buzz. Neat attendance by country music fans and friends.

Katrina hopped up and sang a song, and Kylie Austin -

Rising Star award winner - wowed us with a few numbers.

Great afternoon was had by all.

Cheers

Just saying hi for now

2009-11-12T19:21:00.000-08:00

Hey everyone, I've got some great news coming..

Just haven't had time to get it on here.

News about the A.P.P.A Music Festival

News about The China Cup, which is finally coming to the North Island.

and

News about The New D.V.D Coming out.

So after this weekend it'll all be there

pictures and stories.

Cheers

Marian Burns - Just Fiddlin' Around

AWARDS NIGHT

2009-10-21T17:16:00.000-07:00

The awards for the Variety Artists Club of New Zealand

were held in Auckland on the 20th of October

The Award Winners were:

Eddie Low: The Benny Award

The top award for lifetime achievement in New Zealand Variety Entertainment.

Dennis Marsh: Top Male Vocalist.

Bill Sevesi: Nostalgia Award.

The girls also creamed it with

Marian Burns winning Top Musician and The Agnew Excellence Award

Her sister Karen Davy receiving a Scroll of Honour

for her work in charity and performance.

Pat McMinn Rising Star Award: Kylie Austin.

Sylvia Rielly Comedy Award: Topp Twins.

Top Female Vocalist: Suzanne Prentice

Top Group: Operatunity

Top Childrens Entertainer: Greg Britt (Elgreggo the Magician)

Top Variety Act: Brent McLeod (Magician)

Unsung Hero Award: Bruce Greaves

Scroll: Wayne Heath (Country Singer)

Scroll: Alan Reekie (President of the North Shore Performing Arts Competitions Society)

FIDDLE-TASTIC WORKSHOP - INVERCARGILL

2009-10-09T21:02:00.000-07:00

WOW. Such a cool week of music making in Invercargill October 6th to the 9th 2009

New T-Shirts for Sale - Yippee!!

2009-10-05T03:35:00.000-07:00

I'm heading off to Invercargill with new - Hot of the press T's.

30 already pre-ordered. How cool is that?

Fluro colours on Black T Shirts

Kids: Size 8 - 10 and 12 - 14

Adult Sizes: Medium Large X Large and XXL

Colours:

Yellow Green Light Pink Dark Pink Blue & Orange

Purple's coming!!

$20.00 Adult Sizes

$12.00 for Kids Sizes

Cheers. Will put photos of kids wearing them after the workshop this week.

My Darling Minnie

2009-09-30T04:04:00.000-07:00

Cuddles with Phill.

It was a very cold night.

13 years ago Craig brought a black cat called Minnie, home from the Vet. She belonged to Burt Westenra, who was my Parrot's vetinary man. Craig went to pick up Beaky, and brought home Minnie as well.. I could have killed him... the last thing I wanted was a cat when I had a bird.

However... her and I became great friends.. What a cool cat... so independant, so friendly, and

and bird friendly I might add.

She was the best cat ever!! She's kept me company until the wee hours of the mornings as I typed away on my computer. She sat patiently on the floor beside my chair - that was about 11.00 p.m and at 12.00 a.m. she'd jump on the desk and sit beside me patient as ever, and then at 1.00 a.m she'd walk all over my computer keyboard, to say.... time to go to sleep now Marian.. and yes she was right.

She'd follow me all around the garden and stay near, even when I was waterblasting.. such a cool friend..

I miss her soooooo much..

I won't have another cat to replace Minnie for now.. When I retire I'll probably weaken.... and that's a wee while away yet..

But to my darling pussy cat... I loved you so much.. and I know you loved me too. I have your silouette on every light switch in the house.. xoxo Rest in painfree peace.

Marian

Keas in Arthurs Pass.. COOL!!

2009-09-25T01:24:00.001-07:00

Got to see the KEAS again !!! THAT WAS COOL . I LOVE Arthurs Pass!!

On Tour With Operatunity. Aug 25th to Sept 25th 2009

2009-09-12T16:38:00.000-07:00

Photo 1. Arthurs Pass Kea Country

Photo 2. Invercargill Waxy O'sheas - Alex Albert Tessa Waxy and Sue
Photo 3. Albert Sword-John Cameron-Alex Wiltshire-Marian-Tessa May Brown-Geoff Hughes

Photo 4. Alex Geoff and Tessa - Orewa

Photo 5. Concert in Nelson

Photo 6. Albert at Nugget Point lighthouse built 1869

Hi everyone

I've just finished the OPERATUNITY TOUR.

John Cameron, Geoff Hughes, Alex Wiltshire, Albert Sword and Tessa May Brown and assisted in the catering department by Sue James.

What a fabulous bunch of people to work with ON and OFF the STAGE.

You can check out the dates and towns we visited at http://www.marianburns.co.nz/ and click on gig guide. Whangarei to Invercargill... whew. all done!!!

All daytime shows that started at 11.oo.. So so cool to not be playing evening shows!! sleeeeep!
Got to see the spectacular views when we tiki toured around the Caitlins. BEEEEautiful!! Recommend it.

Sunday 13th Sept. we had a gathering at the Motueka State Cinema for a look at THE CHINA CUP MOVIE ... 6.00 p.m. and 8.00 p.m. sessions. It was so exciting. Lots of Top of the South Country Music Club people came.. THANKS. XOXOXOXO.

Cheers everyone

Marian

Gig At Muddy Farmer Irish Pub - August 2009

2009-08-25T03:26:00.000-07:00

Wow What a cool gig.. I'm ecstatic about playing with Bruce King AND Paul Trenwith all at the same time.. yes they filled in admirably as our new 'McSweeney' recruits last Sunday..

Eddie Mac and I were the only standing original McSweeneys, but the band played on....

Brendon Ham and Paula came in and we sang him a big HAPPY BIRTHDAY... And then he joined us on stage, and who else should pop in but the wonderful Suzanne Lynch..

We even had a visit from Ivan and Craig... and Craig got up and sang a couple of numbers. Awesome!!

My student Alasdair Robertson plugged in and played a couple of fiddle tunes, and went down a real treat.

I'm still buzzing ... loads of smiles laugher and top notch music went down at the Muddy Farmer last week.

Heather and the whole Carson Whanau came from Marina View School, Yay, and of course the whole host of GREAT FRIENDS that come to our Sunday Madness and Mayhem.

2009-08-22T04:31:00.000-07:00

Muddy Farmer Irish Pub

Sunday 23 August

Wyndham Street Central Auckland

4.00 - 7.00 p.m.

Line up: Marian - Fiddle & Vocal
Bruce King - Drums
Paul Trenwith - Bass & Vocal
Eddie McIntyre - Guitar & Vocal

SEE YOU THERE.

2009-08-16T03:04:00.000-07:00

Well everyone... I'm on cloud nine.... Having just picked up an award from The Kiwi Pro Am National Country Music Association for - Top Female Country Artist of the Year.. 2009 wahooooo!

Thank you to my friends and fans and family who voted for me.. I appreciate your support. I feel so proud to have won such a prestigious award.

A professional - top notch - wow factor - Showcase of talent. What an incredible team of people. Here's a pic of flowers my staff at Marina View gave me not to mention the royal treatment ALLLLL week at school, and an enormous Certificate and Musical Sash presented at Assembly.

Cheers everyone

Marian Burns

The China Cup - Kiwi Film

2009-08-06T05:14:00.000-07:00

The China Cup - Directed by Fiona McKenzie.
Written and Produced by Peter Frahm of Geraldine

A New Zealand film set in Temuka,

D.V.D s NOW ON SALE AT http://www.marianburns.co.nz/ on Album Sales Page. You can order your copy and pay with Pay Pal or just contact me.

It had a record 11 weeks in the Timaru Theatre Royal.
It's done the rounds in the private cinemas in the South Island and had a season at The Matakana Cinema.

It'll make you chuckle it may even make you cry, watching myself try to act in it definitely makes me want to cry. Ha!

I'm Roxie the Fiddler and play in the Pub band scenes and a few home scenes throughout the movie as I'm the flat mate of 'Rose' one of the main characters.

The Band Line up:
Phill Doublet - Electric Lead, Doug Blakie - Drums, Brian Kennard - Banjo / Guitar, Trevor Dawe - Keyboard / Organ, Johnny Elder - Bass, Peter Frahm - Rhythm Guitar and Jessie Frahm- Vocals and percussion
Noel Burns of Timaru, is the Pastor of the Church. Excellent!!

My exciting news is that four of my own compositons including "The Black Jelly Bean Reel" "Things Do Get Better" - co written with Brendon Ham, "Country Warm up" and "Barney Duffy" are used for part of the soundtrack. Yay!!

Brendon Ham, Tami Neilson and Kevin Greaves also have their original
compositions featuring inthe sound track.

Marian Burns. "Roxy" baby.!!

From Left: Peter Frahm Phill Doublet Brian Kennard Jessie Frahm Doug Blakie Marian Burns Johnny Elder and Trevor Dawe

2009-08-06T05:11:00.000-07:00

Kiwi Pro Am Awards:

www.kiwiproamcountrymusic.co.nz

Check out the site.

Cheers

Marian

What's been Happenin'?

2009-08-06T03:37:00.001-07:00

Marian Burns Live in Concert - DVD

John Stevens has been producing my very first D.V.D

He came and filmed the shows in Paihia at the Bay of Islands, Country Music Rock Festival, 2009. In June he came to film my irish band, The McSweeney Brothers, at the Bunker in Devonport. He captured a snippet of the Highway of Legends show 2008 and this coming Sunday, 9th August, he's coming to film the last scenes at my gig in The Muddy Farmer Irish Pub, in Auckand City.

He's been instrumental in making this dream come true. THANKS SO MUCH JOHN !!

It should be out by Late September.