In March 2023 I did one of the most exciting things I have ever done in my life. I published my first book “All the Best Parties”! And this is what it’s all about.
“Imagine the forces of power, wealth, sex and influence aimed not at artistic glory but focused like a death ray on a great opera company.
“All the Best Parties” takes us into the scorching drama behind the music, the arias, the fabulous sets, celebrities and social glitter. From a pinnacle of artistic success and financial stability, the company begins to disintegrate. The major social events that surround the company become a poisonous backdrop to the internecine warfare waged by the Opera’s Board. But even as the fragile structure begins to topple, the best parties for the social elite continue-- even without the musicians and singers. Nero continues to fiddle as Rome burns, but the Fat Lady has already stopped singing.”
Readers’s comments
“…….vividly captures the cutthroat jockeying for social prestige, ostentatious “charitable” giving, competitive party hosting and insatiable lust for power in the non profit arts world. We go behind the scenes in this morbidly humorous and scathing critique.” —Ellen Pfeifer, former music and theatre critic
"Brilliant and horrifying at the same time! I couldn't put it down. A gripping page-turner about the egos that create artistic, financial and even sexual tensions in the battle between cultural mission and those who fund it."Paul Meecham, US Orchestra Manager
“...it’s a wild ride, taking in dark humour and artistic pastiche along the way. If you know nothing about opera and the arts – or even if you do – you need to read this book.’ Martyn Becker, musician
“It displays a deep understanding of arts culture laced with biting satire, sex and genuinely shocking moments that make this novel a winner.’ Toby Winner, musician
‘With the punchy, pithy prose style of a Grisham or a Fleming, the author lays out his artistic wares with impressive depth and clarity. It’s The Fall Of The House Of Usher with singing.” Gwen Falls, musician
"….. lifts the veil of philanthropy to reveal a hidden world of scandal, and sex. If you've ever thought classical music was boring then this book will prove you wrong. Wholeheartedly recommend." Charlotte Conal, Classical Music PR consultant
“…..exposes the dangers of allowing philanthropy and business to stifle the artistic voice of an opera company seeking to shift its culture.” Peter Renshaw Educationalist
ISBN numbers
eBook - 979-8-218-13543-0
Hardback - 979-8-218-15789-0
Paperback - 979-8-218-15790-6
Available online from Barnes and Noble in the USA; Amazon (worldwide); Waterstones, Hatchards and Foyles in the UK;: and most large english speaking bookstores.