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:
Martin is part of three music groups, based in Reading UK:
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:
One of the music venues Martin mentions in the episode is: