From the Ledger to the Limelight

By Paul Devonish

Most people know me as the Treasurer.

I’m the one with the spreadsheets, the receipts, and the gentle reminders about budgets. Not exactly rock and roll. But if you’ve been to one of our recent shows, you might also have seen me centre stage with a guitar in hand, wondering how on earth I ended up there.

Music has always been my passion. Long before I joined Treading the Bored about twelve months ago, I’d have said I was happiest with a guitar and a decent song. What I didn’t expect was just how much I’d enjoy performing with this group.

There’s something different about it. It’s not just about hitting the right notes — it’s about the atmosphere. The buzz. The shared moment when the audience joins in.

My rendition of Sweet Caroline was… well, something to behold. I’m not sure whether it was the singing, the clapping, or the inevitable “BAH BAH BAH!” that took over the room — but in that moment, you could feel it. That connection. That joy.

I work full-time, so Tuesdays are a bit of a shift in gears. From the day job to the hall. From emails to amplifiers. But I genuinely look forward to it. It’s a chance to switch off from the usual routine and switch on the stage lights instead.

What I love about Treading the Bored is that everyone mucks in. One minute you’re sorting the accounts, the next you’re rehearsing a song. One week you’re discussing ticket sales, the next you’re persuading the audience to sing along.

It’s not about being perfect. It’s about being involved. About enjoying it. About being part of something local that brings people together.

And if I get to play a bit of guitar along the way? Even better.

See you at the next chorus.