The Accidental Baritone

Aim

To develop 'The Accidental Baritone' - a one-man jukebox opera - to advocate the joy and power of self-expression through music.

How did I reach this point?

I recently reached a point in my life where I felt I'd had my lot: that 'making do' was as good as as it was going to get for the rest of my days.

Luckily, instead of accepting that, a sudden rush of enthusiasm, inspiration and a little bit of blind panic motivated me into doing something I had always wanted to do. So, since...

I only ever really just wanted to be in a musical...

I started taking singing lessons.

However, in a quirk of fate, I turned to classical singing - more Schubert than Sondheim - and surprised even myself with the deep joy and positivity it sparked for me.

What do I want to do?

After a couple of years of classes, I wanted to find a way of showcasing what I had learnt. I didn't want to do a cold recital and I certainly didn't want to take any exams, so I came up with the idea of framing some of the songs I had learned within the story of how I ended up taking classical singing classes and the great good it has done me.

I might never get to be in a musical, I certainly won't ever be in an opera, but I strongly believe that the good this whole wonderful experience has done - and continues to do - is worth sharing. Because it might just inspire other people who think there's not much new on the horizon to say, "**** it", and go out a do that thing they always wanted to do, but never had the time, permission or courage to do.

What's the show?

It's called 'The Accidental Baritone: or How I Only Ever Really Just Wanted to Be in a Musical...'

It's the story of how I inadvertently ended up taking classical singing lessons after deciding to make a positive change in my life, told through a collection of lieder, arias and other songs from the classical repertoire, with tales of happy accidents, surprising discoveries and the thrill of creative self-expression.

A sort of one-man jukebox opera with live piano accompaniment.

Who's it for?

Anyone who enjoys a light-hearted night out. People who like to hear live music. Anybody needing a spring in their step or help finding the inspiration to do something - anything - new.

Where will the money go?

Up to £500: help with the cost of singing lessons and an accompanist. Also help with developing an online presence.

£500: a professionally produced recording of my singing for promotional purposes.

£1000: every £1000 helps secure a venue, accompanist and technician on a small-scale tour.

£5000: opens up the opportunity to take the show to the Edinburgh Festival, and/or extend UK tour dates.

£10000: added option to take the show to Adelaide Fringe, and/or extend further UK tour dates.

Funding method

Keep what you raise – this project will receive all pledges made by 12th December 2026 at 4:23pm