NZ Music Month: Michael Barker

To celebrate New Zealand Music Month entertainment reporter Adriana Weber spoke to five local musicians and bands about their careers.

Michael Barker, 47, from the band Swamp Thing

Tell us a bit about your music career.

I've been a professional musician since 1985. I lived in Melbourne for 27 years where I studied classical percussion for five years. I've toured, performed and recorded with many wonderful artists. I moved back to Rotorua in 2010 with my wife Cathy and built a recording studio, established a drum and percussion teaching studio next to The Rock Shop in Eruera St and formed Swamp Thing.

What first motivated you to get involved with music?

I enjoyed the sound of music and from an early age I found I was able to play by ear.

What has been the highlight of your career so far?

There have been many but my most recent highlight would be preparing to record a live album and DVD at the Okere Falls Store on May 31 with my band Swamp Thing.

What was the most embarrassing moment you have had on stage or behind the scenes?

I was lucky enough to meet Nelson Mandela after a concert and I was so nervous that I greeted him as Mr Nelson!

What does New Zealand Music Month mean to you?

New Zealand Music Month is an opportunity to consider what is unique about music making in New Zealand and how I can contribute as an individual.

Why is it important to celebrate home-grown artists?

New Zealand artists are best placed to write songs and music that hold relevance to New Zealanders.

What is the best thing about coming from Rotorua?

There are many advantages to living in Rotorua, there are some wonderfully supportive people in our city. The central location in the North Island means most cities that support original live music such as New Plymouth, Napier, Gisborne, Wanganui, Tauranga, Auckland are no more than four hours' drive away.

What advice would you give to aspiring musicians?

As far as a career goes, don't think of music as an easy alternative to hard work, having talent as an artist will not transfer to success without a great deal of hard work.

What are your aspirations for the future?

I hope to enjoy performing, writing and recording until I'm physically unable to.