On the Couch with Benjamin Greaves

Benjamin Greaves AAR On the CouchWho is Benjamin Greaves?
I am a violinist, a creative of Collusion Music and Dance Ensemble. In the past I have been responsible for much of the production work involved with Collusion however for the time being Gareth Belling does much of the detailed production work while I complete a Master of Fine Arts at NIDA. I’m a bit of a dreamer for the ensemble; experiences and memories inform a lot of Collusion’s projects. I also love teaching violin and viola. I keep high expectations for all of my students; I believe everyone has the ability to play music well. It is my role to find the best way each individual can reach their full potential. I love seeing my students smile when they are surprised at what they can do.

What would you do differently to what you do now?
I would have been more aware of my different senses, and the happiness using them all, can bring. Being a musician is so auditory and visual, I often become saturated by sight and sound. Musicians sometimes forget how stopping to smell the beach air, touch the trees, enjoy the pleasures of baking, smelling a wet dog … can bring back so many amazing and happy memories.

What would you do to make a difference in the world?
I think I have made some differences in this world already; I am proud of that. Ultimately naive to the stigma I would eventually create for myself in some communities, I, in the past have been very brave to show the world that I am not ashamed of my natural attraction to my partner, and my genetic tendency to suffer mental health difficulties. There are many people in this world who simply by being proud of themselves, visible and honest, make immense contributions to this world on a daily basis. They sacrifice their safe place, by making their identity vulnerable, consequently losing some powers yet creating other powers. Change does not take place without these crusaders. For now I will just keep being a better version of myself, continually learning and re-evaluating who I am, and striving to be a better person tomorrow.

Favourite holiday destination and why?
Generally the best holidays are when my family can all travel together (that is Gareth, our dog Joshey and myself). This generally means a long road trip, taking in beaches, walks, lots of chats with both Gareth … and Joshey too.

When friends come to town, what attraction would you take them to, and why?
At Redcliffe Esplanade, Queensland, there is the Bee Gees walk of fame. I’d take friends there for a 5 minute walk… then onto the ferry bound for Moreton Island.

What are you currently reading?
I am currently reading The World We Made by Jonathon Porritt. It is Alex McKay’s story from 2050. It illustrates how the world could look in 2050 … if we get it right.

What are you currently listening to?
At the moment I am listening to Rautavaara’s Symphony no. 7 Angel of Light. I’m always intrigued by music that aspires to create what angels may sound like. My car CD player has Bjork on rotation at the moment. I am pretty in love with all Scandinavian music, both contemporary and classical.

Happiness is?
Knowing that god spelt backwards is dog!

What does the future hold for you?
Something that has its origins in 2017 perhaps …

Benjamin performs on violin in Collusion’s new chamber ballet, Turbine at the Brisbane Powerhouse as part of the 2018 Melt Festival from 23 May. For more information, visit: www.brisbanepowerhouse.org or www.collusion.com.au for details.

Image: Benjamin Greaves (supplied)