How long have you been living locally? What suburb are you in?

I’ve been living in Thornbury for around 10 years.

What do you love about your home town/suburb?

I love the community here. I love that I can walk to get a coffee, the amazing cafes and shops – getting to know everyone who runs these places. We have a Fromagerie in Thornbury! I feel connected here – it’s nice.

What genre of music do you generally play? 

I try to play good music.

Are you a solo artist and/or do you play with a band? Would you like to list them?

I’m a bass player, so I play with lots of different groups…. I have my own band, Spirograph Studies, but I’m also lucky to be in bands with musicians like Kate Miller-Heidke, CLIO (Clio Renner) and Harriett Allcroft. I also play with a fair few jazz groups, although probably too many to mention.

Where is your favourite live music venue to play locally?

I always have a good time playing at Jazzlab in Brunswick. The room is great, and I’ve been performing there for… way too many years to count.

Where is your favourite live music venue to play in world-wide?

I think my favourite venue that I’ve ever performed in is the Recital Centre, here in Melbourne! I’ve played in both the Salon and the main stage there, and it’s always stunning. It’s hard to have a bad gig in that place.

If you could play with any other musician in the world, who would it be?

It’s a tie between Bill Frisell and Bjork.

Some artists have part time/full time jobs when they are not gigging – do you have one? (and do you want to share it?)

I also teach music at few tertiary institutions – Box Hill Institute and VCA (University of Melbourne)

What hobby have you taken up during isolation? (eg. baking sourdough!)

I haven’t really taken up anything new, but I have adapted my sewing skills to include making a few masks for family and friends. Also, knitting socks!

What are you looking forward to doing again, post COVID-19 restrictions?

Playing music with friends! Going to a bar for a drink and bumping into unexpected mates. Hugging my friends. I think the more I think about it, this list will extend…

What has been your favourite thing about isolation?

Going for solo long walks along Darebin Creek. The bush starts at the end of my street.

What has been the hardest part about isolation?

Not knowing when it will end. Oh, and home schooling!!

If people want to learn more about your music where can they head to?

www.tamaramurphy.com

https://spirographstudies.bandcamp.com/releases

Instagram: @spirographstudies