Finally arrived after 28-odd hours in transit. Can't believe we used to survive on those long-haul flights without the 'movies on demand' channel! Plane not too crowded so managed to doze here and there.
Had a 3-hour stopover at Auckland airport - like being on a giant 'Flight of the Concords' set. Lots of blokes who looked like the Prime Minister, but Murray nowhere to be seen. Could have used a bit of last-minute advice on my Nashville 'mission'
Up and about early and feeling surprisingly fresh. Am staying for a few days with old mates Tom Mason and Pru Clearwater before moving downtown near the Convention Centre for the Conference which starts day after tomorrow. They live in East Nashville - the 'arts' part of town, just opposite a golf course. Just after I arrived, we had a visit from the resident pair of humming birds. Right on the verandah, drinking from the nectar feeder - magic! The family dog and I are off for a walk shortly.
Today's phone day - to touch base with all those folks I've been emailing to try to set up meetings to gather local intelligence and start to work on the grand plan for the involvement of Australian artists, writers and business people in future Americana events.
I've been delighted that so many industry people here have agreed to share their expertise and help the cause.
First stop will be the Americana Music Association office to put "faces to the names" and fine-tune details for my presentation as Australian 'host' at the International Reception - the first event in the official Conference/Festival program.
I have the trusty camera in hand, so future posts will be accompanied by some snaps.
More soon.
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