Styles of Playing: Sean Maynard Smith reflects on his Navigator residency at Ballina Arts Centre

On arrival I was introduced to Paul Cunningham, director of Ballina Arts Centre who showed me around and helped me to arrange meetings with local musicians and an excellent local historian by the name of Carmel Hughes. Carmel took me on a tour of the town and described in great detail the changing face of it going back centuries, bringing my attention to old architecture and preserved ruins. I also learned about the men who were involved during Ireland's struggle for independence against Britain, putting Ballina on the map as an incredibly important location during that time. She also pointed out that the town was home to one of Ireland's great composers William Vincent Wallace, best known for his writing in the operatic tradition.

The centre itself, situated in the centre of the town, was brimming with activity. I was able to meet and talk to many artists and musicians who were passing through which gave me a great feel of the surrounding area. I was also fortunate enough that the arts centre was hosting the Feasant Fest which is a yearly event running since 2011, curated by art collective Ballina Punx. It brings alternative and punk bands from all around Ireland to the small town and is a great example of small scale festivals that are still able to thrive in the face of the gargantuan summer pop festivals. A must see for anyone in the punk and alternative scenes of Ireland.

Towards the end of the stay I held a bass workshop. It was a great way to meet the local aspiring bass players and share our ideas. Workshops are always interesting to me as you never know what kind of styles of playing you will encounter.

The 8 days in Ballina allowed me to explore and develop new ideas, inspired by the town's quiet, still days and its surprisingly active and noisy nights. Some ideas bore fruit, others did not, but it was great to have the time in a zero pressure environment to allow me to take time with things without the usual performance or recording session waiting for me at the end.

I want to thank the Improvised Music Company and Ballina Arts Centre for having me as part of the NAVIGATOR programme. It was an invaluable opportunity to have time outside of the normal working and family life to focus on my career. They provided me with a nice quiet work space and a relaxed environment.

It was a highly beneficial experience and I will recommend others to apply.