On the Couch with Louise Devenish

Louise Devenish AAR On the CouchWho is Louise Devenish?
Musician, Head of Percussion at the University of Western Australia Conservatorium of Music.

What would you do differently to what you do now?
I am very happy being a percussionist and part of the contemporary music scene – but if I couldn’t be a musician perhaps I would think about working as a historian.

Who inspires you and why?
I am inspired by the people I work with – other percussionists, composers, visual artists, my students, teachers – people who share and present their ideas with enthusiasm for the artform!

What would you do to make a difference in the world?
If I had unlimited magic powers I would use them to tackle climate change.

Favourite holiday destination and why?
I really love it down south – the Dunsborough to Margaret River area is pretty close to paradise.

When friends come to town, what attraction would you take them to, and why?
I take friends to concerts – every week there is a huge range of great music happening in Perth – and a beach sunset. If there is extra time to explore, I also recommend our art galleries – PICA and Fremantle Arts Centre are both excellent places to visit, for the art and for the vibe.

What are you currently reading?
I’ve nearly finished The History of Modern Love – it’s a great fiction novel woven around the Marina Abramovic’s performance art work The Artist is Present. Recommended by a viola playing friend years ago!

What are you currently listening to?
The news.

Happiness is?
Having free time on a sunny day.

What does the future hold for you?
Hopefully more of the same!

Presented by Tura New Music, Louise will be performing music for percussion and electronics in a series of concerts across Australia, commencing in Perth on Tuesday 15 May 2018. For more information and performance schedule, visit: www.tura.com.au for details.

Image: Louise Devenish (supplied)