Ukulele lessons aside, Christensen started playing music seriously at age 10 when he picked up the saxophone. Now an accomplished multi-instrumentalist, he's known for his orchestral arrangements---having worked on Symphony Nova Scotia shows with Joel Plaskett, Jill Barber and Buck 65---and has played with a who's-who of the Halifax scene. Earlier in June he added his horn to Classified's gig at the Palace---having played on his last two records---and is currently touring with Jenn Grant.
The Coast: You've done a lot of touring in your musical career. What is it that keeps you coming home to Halifax and keeps you here?
David Christensen: It feels like home, with friends and family. I just find it generally relaxed here. That could be said about anyone's home, but this is where I feel the most relaxed.
TC: You've seen a lot of changes in the Halifax music scene. What keeps it evolving?
DC: It's obviously the hub of this part of Canada, but we have an influx of students and people from other provinces. It seems fresh but there are a lot of people who have a similar approach to music.
TC: Is there something you really enjoy doing here in the summer?
DC: Lately, gardening. I started a garden four years ago. I'll have lettuce and other greens. Lots of tomatoes, lots of strawberries, some raspberries, green peppers, jalapeno peppers, squash. I don't grow a lot but I try to grow a variety.
TC: In terms of this summer coming up, what are you looking forward to doing?
DC: I'll be here for some of the jazz festival. I was at the Common yesterday, I find that a huge treasure. I was just sitting down watching cricket, watching softball, watching soccer, watching Frisbee. On a sunny day it's amazing.