Ep. 37 Exploring Your Passion: Martin Butler’s Music Journey

With Martin Butler

Episode Description:

In this episode, Martin Butler, Community and Events Fundraising Manager at the Royal Berks Charity and passionate singer based in Reading. Martin shares his journey of balancing responsibilities with his love for music, discussing how he finds time for his passion alongside his professional and family life. He details his experiences with singing in choirs, performing as a soloist, and songwriting.

Martin offers insights into finding time for personal hobbies, the importance of well-being, and the diverse music scene in Reading, encouraging listeners to explore local venues and support local artists. He also emphasises the value of pursuing one’s passions and offers advice for those looking to develop their creative interests, reminding listeners that “never say never” when it comes to following their dreams.

Martin Butler Website: https://www.martin-butler.co.uk/

Martin Butler Social Channels:

Listen to Martin’s Original Song ‘The Robin’

(video by Maria Lloyd)

Listen to the episode

Episode Time Codes

00:00 Episode Introduction

00:25 Welcome to Martin!

00:38 Introduction to Martin

01:24 What Martin likes about Reading

02:43 Martin’s music background

05:28 Finding time for your passions

06:15 Martin’s singing genre

07:27 Martin’s song writing process

10:13 How Martin found the music video process

12:24 Martin’s special singing highlights

14:00 What was it like to sing at The Hexagon and Purple Turtle

15:08 Tips for finding great singing performances

17:23 Final thoughts

Videos

Finding Time For Your Passion

Unlocking Reading's Full Potential

Martin's Song Writing Process

How to Find Performances in Reading

Follow Your Passion

Key takeaways

Balancing Passion and Professional Life:

Martin’s story illustrates the importance of maintaining personal passions alongside professional responsibilities. For business owners, this translates to preventing burnout and fostering creativity.

Leveraging Reading’s Local Opportunities:

Martin’s deep knowledge of Reading’s music scene showcases the importance of exploring and utilising the opportunities within your local area. Understanding the unique character and offerings of Reading can provide a significant competitive edge and help you connect with your target audience more effectively.

Embracing a “Never Say Never” Mindset for Personal Fulfilment:

Martin’s core message, “never say never,” is a powerful reminder for anyone seeking personal fulfilment. He encourages listeners to pursue their passions, regardless of perceived limitations or life circumstances.

Episode references

Martin’s record company:

MCS Records

Martin is part of three music groups, based in Reading UK:

High Voltage Singers

Reading Male Voice Choir

Sing For Fun (Reading is one of five locations)

Keep your eye on the What’s on Reading website for live music performances, including upcoming Sing Reading Events:

What’s On Reading website

One of the music venues Martin mentions in the episode is:

South Hill Park