John Blakely
John Blakely’s first book, God in the Dark, Rebuilding faith when bad stuff happens, was published in 2012 by Wild Goose, www.ionabooks.com, under the pseudonym Peter Longson. ‘Exquisitely written…Longson pulls off an astonishing, deep and coherent argument - by far the best and most life-affirming book that I have ever read about the problem of pain. It has a profound conclusion that is deeply satisfying.’ Church Times.
Born in 1947, classical pianist John Blakely received his musical education at The Royal Academy of Music and Balliol College, Oxford. As a chamber musician and accompanist he has performed all over the UK and Europe, and made 7 CDs as well as countless live broadcasts and recordings for the BBC. He is now a Professor of Piano, Accompaniment and Vocal Repertoire at The Royal College of Music.
He is married with three children and eight grandchildren, and is a member of St Paul’s Church, Beckenham, in South London. Besides music and writing, his interests include astronomy, environmental concerns and walking.
As a teacher he enjoys the challenge of using words to explain ideas about music, and of guiding the development of talented students.
As a writer his aim is to articulate in non-technical language his own explorations in Christian belief and to help others find a way through their struggles with faith. Though based in theology and philosophy, his writing aims to be accessible and practical, so that it can be of pastoral benefit to his readers.
