Brazil still means an awful lot to me even though it is now almost 20 years since I tried to bring awareness to the rainforest issue. I was in São Paulo recently, which is actually a great cultural city even though
Rio gets the attention. Go to Avenida Paulista and you’ll see what I mean. On a wider topic, I know that the old Indian chief I took along to all those TV shows back then is still in the Amazon safe in his village — at least for now. We should never give up that fight.
I love Broadway. Having written
An Englishman in New York, it shouldn’t come as a surprise to hear that. It’s a magical part of
Manhattan. I’ve played there in various guises over the years, most recently to perform Twin Spirits, a celebration of the composer Robert Schumann. Last month, I was lucky enough to showcase my new album in the suitably chilly but beautiful surroundings of the Church of St John the Divine, the biggest Gothic cathedral in the world — of course, being American!
Most of my time is spent in Tuscany. I have nice neighbours and I’m very much accepted as a local, so much so that I love popping down to the corner shop where I try out my Italian. I’m also a big fan of Lake Como, a couple of hundred miles north of us, where Mr Clooney lives.
I’m intrigued by local instruments when I travel. They play a big part in a country’s culture. Who knows, I might pick up and have a go at the Abyssinian nose flute next.
Not enough people who visit the UK discover the Northeast. Go and see our 12th-century cathedral in Durham, which I’ve been lucky enough to play in. Stroll the Northumberland moors. Or stay at the Gosforth Park Hotel and take in a match at every Geordie’s true cathedral: St James’ Park, home of Newcastle United. I’m always going to be a Wallsend boy and when I’ve had a drink or two, I’m proper Geordie.
Sting’s album If on a Winter’s Night
and DVD Twin Spirits
are available to buy now.
