New News and Other New Things!
There is so much exciting news to tell - a new studio space, new album, a couple of new videos, and the summer session at Swallow Hill is almost here! Where shall I begin? Hmmmm......................
ANNOUNCING a NEW StUdIo SpAcE at 910 Arts!!!
I've just opened up time at a brand new studio space in the 910 Arts co-op building at 910 Santa Fe Drive. Over the coming months the space will develop. And likewise a community of students will start to flourish. There are plans for super-charged recitals, clinics with various professionals, drop-in classes and lots and lots of singing.
I'll be at this new space Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays. Definitely get it touch if you're ready to get back into music making.
Stay tuned to this website for upcoming events at the space.
In the meantime, here are a few pics to get you excited for the shape of things to come:
I'M IN A BAND and We ReCoRdEd An AlBuM!!!
Some of my longtime friends and students know that I've been singing with a jazz quartet for some time. We've gone through a few personnel changes over the years and about as many band names. But, things have really hit a groove [and I mean that literally] with our current line up and name.
ROPE TRICK EFFECT is now the thing and it consists of myself on vocals, Dustin Adams on keys, Squirrely McSquirrelington on bass, and Mike Spencer on drums.
We went into Derryberry Studios - one of our favorite recording engineers! - in early May and threw down seven - 7! - killer tunes. We've been honing in our sound and have six original tunes (two by me) and one innovative take on a traditional.
We also commissioned our friend, Kim Fronapfel, to draw some art for us. Her skills are vast as you can see here:
Our self titled EP was released in late May by Growler Distro and you can stream it here. If you have the funds, and would like to support the cause, you'll get an extra special, secret, bonus track upon purchase.
We've also got hard copies available here.
CHECK OUT my pRoLiFic YoU-tUbInG!!!
You-tubing from one's phone is so easy the temptation to post new music rests in the back of my mind constantly.
I recently uploaded a tune I've been working on while I had a break between lessons at Swallow Hill. Here's a little jam for y'all:
And the other night at band practice, Dustin, Mike and Squirrel laid down a funky groove. There was an adorable kid + a highly apathetic dog in the room, which made for great cinematic drama (IMHO). Put the video on and go about your chores because it's a pretty chill groove (IMHO). I throw down some jammy ideas after the 9 minute mark:
SUMMER at SWALLOW HILL is ArOuNd ThE cOrNeR!!!
I'll be offering some great classes and workshops this summer. Singing 1-A and 3-A for the grown-ups; Little Swallows for kiddos ages 1-4; and Teen Singing for, you know, teens!
I'll also be offering Harmony Singing for the first time. I'm excited to start choosing harmonic tunes and tunes with harmonic potential so sign up and find out what I pick out of the hat!
I'm also continuing my series of Vocal Workout classes that occur every other Saturday (7/1, 7/15, 7/29, and 8/12). Though the time has moved to 11am. This is your yoga for singing class! Each session presents new stretches and exercises for your voice. We're working together to help your voice get stronger and healthier. Definitely swing by one of the Saturdays if you aren't able to commit to a full session of classes or lessons this summer.
Check out the full list of my class and workshop offerings here.