MAY took me home to Brazil, where I had the pleasure of launching a new CD alongside Brazilian cellist , Antonio Meneses: The complete works for cello and piano by Villa-Lobos. We not only played for a full Sala Cecilia Meireles in Rio (it poured with rain!), but went on to perform in Brasília, for President Fernando Henrique, dona Ruth the First Lady, and a very select chosen-few guests, at the Palácio da Alvorada - the gorgeous residence designed by the late Oscar Niemeyer. Back in London, I was in the jury of the Finals of the BBC's Young Musician and had a lovely time sharing views on musical talent, with colleagues in the panel: one of the nicest things about adjudicating in Competitions, is the pleasure of discovering other respected musicians' approaches to music and performing.

The month ended with a quick trip to Jersey, again to replace …. the same indisposed artist, with yet another recital. More buzz!