Message from the Executive Producer The road to this EP has been long and unusual. A ten-­‐‑year-­‐‑old girl started writing poetry and songs as an emotional outlet, growing up in a country she found unjust and frightening. She studied piano but didn’t pursue a musical career. She kept the songs in her head for decades while she married, moved, worked and raised a child. All the while her musical soul bubbled beneath the surface. As life grew more challenging, with personal tragedy around her, the bubbles burst through and she returned to song writing. Not being a singer, she sent out a call for help – anyone out there who can help bring these songs to life? A reply came from James Kempster – yes I can help you. We decided to create a project that was mutually beneficial – to showcase Australian talent, both established and emerging, to give the singers a recording opportunity and to get my music out there. We called the group The Song Tailors because each song is personally crafted and weaves music and true stories together. Different artists are involved in different songs but the common threads of life’s experiences link the pieces. I thank all the artists involved in this EP. My thanks also go to my family, friends and colleagues for their support and for giving me the courage to follow my dream. Huge thanks to my husband for his unwavering support. The song for him is on this EP. Special thanks to James Kempster for taking me on in the first place, for the co-­‐‑ writing, for his patience, guidance and leadership of the project. James – when you first introduced me as “a songwriter” my heart flipped. When I first heard the songs sung out loud it was a life’s dream so long held inside suddenly realised. Thank you. Ruth Picker, MAY 2016. Dedicated to my father – the Harmonica-­‐‑Man.