Frequently Asked Questions

1. Are you trying to create a definitive collection of songs?

No, these are simply my personal tastes. I am hoping to spark some interest in Songs of Appraise and, collectively, we can all share our favourites and find the best songs between us.

Obviously my tastes are a little dated, so not everyone is going to like my choices of songs. If you don't like my tastes then go ahead and create your own list of songs, and share it on the internet.

2. Are you trying to start something like Sunday Assembly?

Similar, perhaps. But whereas Sunday Assembly seems to be a "foot-stomping celebration of life", Songs of Appraise aims to be more educational and informative, and would be more "life is a roller coaster", acknowledging the full range of human emotions.

Songs of Appraise is more descriptive than prescriptive. It's about acknowledging the foundation of human values, it's not telling you what you should actually value, that's up to you.

The songs are not meant to cheer you up, nor to manipulate you emotionally. Rather, they are meant to inform and educate about the foundation of humanist values. Although, the byproduct of these songs may be an emotional "homecoming" of sorts i.e. a sense of finding yourself, finding the truth, and finding direction.

3. So, are you going to be the leader of this movement, and start a Songs of Appraise group in Australia?

No, due to my health problems I'm not fit to lead any group. That job will have to go to people more fit and able than me. All I can do is help to form the ideas, the rest is up to you.

Don't be afraid to lead, or be the first follower. At first you will feel like a lone nutter, but if it works, it's worth the risk.

If you're looking for musicians in Australia, maybe Dan McGahan and Clare Reynolds might fit the bill. But I don't know their backgrounds, so I don't know if they'd be suitable or interested. Their music does seem to focus on the heart, although some of Dan's music sounds a bit religious, so I'm not sure.