Friday, December 19, 2008
Musical Careers - Getting Started
Starting A Musical Career by: Ty Cohen
Beginning a musical career can be difficult if you do not know how to break into the mainstream industry. Everyone has dreams and yours are no less important, but unless you know the right people to contact or the best businesses to approach, you could be left floundering in one spot, unable to move forward and unable to go back. If you are looking to carry your singing, acting, performing, or unique career forward to the next level, you will need to know what kind of people to consult and where to go. Depending on what exactly you are searching for you should find an excellent music consultant. There are companies locally that are available to assist you in determining what music would best suit you, or how to best go about presenting your music you have either written or had written for you. Your performance is directly related to your ability and your presentation and if you have someone that is qualified in that aspect, it will help to move your career further ahead in the right direction that much faster. The ins and outs of the music industry can be extremely overwhelming to the layman and offers no respite to singers and performers alike, regardless of your talent. You need a music industry consultant to help you understand everything you will be involved in and help you keep a fresh perspective on what will be involved in your journey to the top. With their help and assistance you will be able to better understand everything surrounding your endeavors. Although they can only show you the way to a certain limit, their input will be helpful toward setting your goals and accomplishing them. Looking at things from the other end of the business spectrum, engaging the assistance of a music business consultant is another excellent way of getting a handle on the music industry from a business perspective to better fulfill any goals you are trying to achieve. There are various fronts to the business aspect of music, and knowing the right people can raise your chances of succeeding. The business end of show business can be confusing, but hiring the right consultant can put you in a better place to understand and use the benefits to move up and forward toward the career you desire. Keep these in mind when you are beginning your music, singing, or acting career. There will be many ups and downs during your journey, why make them any more difficult than necessary?
About The Author
Ty Cohen Platinum Millennium Publishing PO Box 644 Garner, NC 27529 Ty@PlatinumMillennium.com 1-866-752-9968 Want Free Music Biz Advice? Who else wants to receive free advice from "Mr X", a man who has helped artist such as New Edition, Madonna, Quincy Jones, Puff Daddy, Prince and More, including up an comers just like you, to sell nearly 150 Gold & Platinum Albums Worldwide! Now he wants to help you, by offering you private consulting as well as giving you a free copy of his audio CD "7 Golden Secrets to Succeeding in the Music Industry" Visit http://www.MusicBizCenter.com/freecd1 to get your free CD mailed out to you right now.
Beginning a musical career can be difficult if you do not know how to break into the mainstream industry. Everyone has dreams and yours are no less important, but unless you know the right people to contact or the best businesses to approach, you could be left floundering in one spot, unable to move forward and unable to go back. If you are looking to carry your singing, acting, performing, or unique career forward to the next level, you will need to know what kind of people to consult and where to go. Depending on what exactly you are searching for you should find an excellent music consultant. There are companies locally that are available to assist you in determining what music would best suit you, or how to best go about presenting your music you have either written or had written for you. Your performance is directly related to your ability and your presentation and if you have someone that is qualified in that aspect, it will help to move your career further ahead in the right direction that much faster. The ins and outs of the music industry can be extremely overwhelming to the layman and offers no respite to singers and performers alike, regardless of your talent. You need a music industry consultant to help you understand everything you will be involved in and help you keep a fresh perspective on what will be involved in your journey to the top. With their help and assistance you will be able to better understand everything surrounding your endeavors. Although they can only show you the way to a certain limit, their input will be helpful toward setting your goals and accomplishing them. Looking at things from the other end of the business spectrum, engaging the assistance of a music business consultant is another excellent way of getting a handle on the music industry from a business perspective to better fulfill any goals you are trying to achieve. There are various fronts to the business aspect of music, and knowing the right people can raise your chances of succeeding. The business end of show business can be confusing, but hiring the right consultant can put you in a better place to understand and use the benefits to move up and forward toward the career you desire. Keep these in mind when you are beginning your music, singing, or acting career. There will be many ups and downs during your journey, why make them any more difficult than necessary?
About The Author
Ty Cohen Platinum Millennium Publishing PO Box 644 Garner, NC 27529 Ty@PlatinumMillennium.com 1-866-752-9968 Want Free Music Biz Advice? Who else wants to receive free advice from "Mr X", a man who has helped artist such as New Edition, Madonna, Quincy Jones, Puff Daddy, Prince and More, including up an comers just like you, to sell nearly 150 Gold & Platinum Albums Worldwide! Now he wants to help you, by offering you private consulting as well as giving you a free copy of his audio CD "7 Golden Secrets to Succeeding in the Music Industry" Visit http://www.MusicBizCenter.com/freecd1 to get your free CD mailed out to you right now.
Thursday, December 20, 2007
Angelina Jolie Gets Flowers From Rock Star
Angelina Jolie Receives Sunflowers From A Rock Star by: Wesley Berry, AAF
What do rock stars buy for their mega-movie star friends after the birth of a child? Well, rocker Gwen Stefani recently answered that question when she and her husband, Gavin Rossdale, brought an enormous bouquet of sunflowers to actress Angelina Jolie after the birth of her daughter with her boyfriend, actor Brad Pitt. Sunflowers are aptly named since their enormous golden blooms closely resemble the sun. They also, quite literally, follow the sun; their blossoms turn to follow the sun as the day goes on. Sunflowers come in several varieties, such as: * Autumn Mix: These are the giant plants that grow over six feet tall. They come in yellow and rust colors with blooms five or six inches wide. * Teddy Bear: This variety is a smaller type that has a full, fuzzy bloom. It grows to around 18 inches tall. * Italian White: These sunflowers aren't the typical sunny, golden color; they're a creamy whitish color. The plants grow to a height of approximately four feet and produce small blooms. * Large Varieties: These varieties include the huge 20-inch blooms of the Russian Giants and the ten to fifteen foot tall plants of the Kong Sunflower. Sunflowers are an ancient flower, used by Native Americans as a medicinal flower and food source since as early as 2300 B.C. They provided early Americans with medicines to treat warts, snakebites, and sunstroke. They also provided oils used on the hair and were ground up to create face paints. Foods made from sunflowers included seeds roasted and ground to meal for baking, seed balls much like today's peanut butter, and roasted hulls steeped in water to produce a hot beverage. Today sunflowers are a very popular garden flower loved for their big, beautiful blooms as well as the ease with which they're grown. They should be planted in full sun after the threat of frost has subsided for your area. If you're starting them from seeds, plant the seeds about one inch deep and six inches apart. If you're planting seedlings, plant them about eighteen inches apart (twelve inches for the smaller varieties). Give them a good dose of water after they're planted and keep seeds damp until the plants pop through the ground. You may need to stake the plants as they grow to provide support and keep them from bending or breaking in the wind. Even if you choose not to grow your own sunflowers, you can still enjoy them or given them to friends to enjoy just by visiting your local florist who is sure to have these gorgeous flowers on hand. So, go ahead, send some flowers to the movie star in your life-or just to your best friend or mom-she'll appreciate them as much as Angelina Jolie did hers.
About The Author
Wesley Berry is member of the American Academy of Floriculture (AAF) and President of Wesley Berry Flowers (http://www.wesleyberryflowers.com/), a successful multi-million dollar floral business that was established in 1946. His shops provide flower delivery worldwide through http://www.flowers-worldwide.net/ and Flower Delivery Express (http://www.flowerdeliveryexpress.com/). Visit Wesley Berry Flowers on the web at http://www.800wesleys.com/
What do rock stars buy for their mega-movie star friends after the birth of a child? Well, rocker Gwen Stefani recently answered that question when she and her husband, Gavin Rossdale, brought an enormous bouquet of sunflowers to actress Angelina Jolie after the birth of her daughter with her boyfriend, actor Brad Pitt. Sunflowers are aptly named since their enormous golden blooms closely resemble the sun. They also, quite literally, follow the sun; their blossoms turn to follow the sun as the day goes on. Sunflowers come in several varieties, such as: * Autumn Mix: These are the giant plants that grow over six feet tall. They come in yellow and rust colors with blooms five or six inches wide. * Teddy Bear: This variety is a smaller type that has a full, fuzzy bloom. It grows to around 18 inches tall. * Italian White: These sunflowers aren't the typical sunny, golden color; they're a creamy whitish color. The plants grow to a height of approximately four feet and produce small blooms. * Large Varieties: These varieties include the huge 20-inch blooms of the Russian Giants and the ten to fifteen foot tall plants of the Kong Sunflower. Sunflowers are an ancient flower, used by Native Americans as a medicinal flower and food source since as early as 2300 B.C. They provided early Americans with medicines to treat warts, snakebites, and sunstroke. They also provided oils used on the hair and were ground up to create face paints. Foods made from sunflowers included seeds roasted and ground to meal for baking, seed balls much like today's peanut butter, and roasted hulls steeped in water to produce a hot beverage. Today sunflowers are a very popular garden flower loved for their big, beautiful blooms as well as the ease with which they're grown. They should be planted in full sun after the threat of frost has subsided for your area. If you're starting them from seeds, plant the seeds about one inch deep and six inches apart. If you're planting seedlings, plant them about eighteen inches apart (twelve inches for the smaller varieties). Give them a good dose of water after they're planted and keep seeds damp until the plants pop through the ground. You may need to stake the plants as they grow to provide support and keep them from bending or breaking in the wind. Even if you choose not to grow your own sunflowers, you can still enjoy them or given them to friends to enjoy just by visiting your local florist who is sure to have these gorgeous flowers on hand. So, go ahead, send some flowers to the movie star in your life-or just to your best friend or mom-she'll appreciate them as much as Angelina Jolie did hers.
About The Author
Wesley Berry is member of the American Academy of Floriculture (AAF) and President of Wesley Berry Flowers (http://www.wesleyberryflowers.com/), a successful multi-million dollar floral business that was established in 1946. His shops provide flower delivery worldwide through http://www.flowers-worldwide.net/ and Flower Delivery Express (http://www.flowerdeliveryexpress.com/). Visit Wesley Berry Flowers on the web at http://www.800wesleys.com/
Monday, December 10, 2007
Getting A DJ
The DJ is more important than you think by: Michael McCarthy
You're engaged, congratulations! Now what? If you're like most brides you're probably overwhelmed with all the planning that goes into creating a fairy-tale reception. Did you know that finding the perfect DJ is one of the biggest responsibilities you have? THAT'S RIGHT! "One of the biggest responsibilities". Let me prove it to you. Ask yourself what would you love to hear as your guests are leaving? Could it be...? "WOW that was the most fun I've ever had at a wedding, your reception was absolutely beautiful, every detail was perfect!" If that's what you want to hear, then finding the best DJ is the most important job you'll have when planning your reception. This is because the DJ has one of the biggest roles in creating your perfect day. You need to place a lot of TRUST and CONFIDENCE in this person. Why, you ask? Well consider this; you're probably going to spend thousands of dollars on a reception site, catering, flowers and a photographer to name a few expenses. While all these components are important, what do you think most people remember about your reception? Here are the most common top 3 answers: 1. the Fun 2. the Food 3. the Location Keeping this in mind, let me ask you this; if the location is breath-taking and the food is "to die for", could a bad performance by your DJ sour the whole day? Conversely, if the location poses logistic problems and the food is just o.k. could a spectacular, fun-filled, jammed packed dance floor make up for those problems? If you answered yes to both questions you now understand how important the DJ is. The reality is, you spend so much time and money to create the perfect reception it seems ashamed to ruin it by choosing the wrong DJ. So what's a nervous bride to do? Get the best DJ now! I know that if you're reading this your in the process of gathering information. Booking your entertainment should be a top priority. Doesn't it make sense that the best DJs book early? (as early as 12-18 months in advance) This means you need to find someone now. The less time you have, the more you need my help. I'm a retired DJ of 25 years and my goal is to help you understand the DJs role by revealing a DJ secret that most people in the business don't want you to know. DJ Secret #1: The majority of brides' think the DJ's role is to make a couple of announcements and play good music. This is because that's all they see. While these are very important to the success of your reception they only represent one-third of the DJs responsibilities. The other two-thirds of the DJs role happens behind the scenes. Helping you plan and managing the flow of the day's events is just as important as playing the right music. Consider this; the function manager's role is to make sure the food is hot and on time. That's their job. When the food service is finished they're gone. But the DJ is there from the beginning to the end. The timing of the food is only one of a number of factors the DJ needs to consider. A keen awareness of every aspect of your reception is the key to maintaining a flow that results in a packed dance floor the rest of the night. You might be asking yourself "how does a DJ prepare for all these factors?" The best DJs begin their preparations far in advance. Over the course of several conversations with the couple, the DJ should have a good feel for what they are looking for. The final details will be carefully choreographed at the planning meeting with bride a week or so before the reception. Here is where the bride discusses her vision of the perfect reception (order of events, music, announcements, etc...) It is the DJs responsibility to work with the bride in developing a time-line for all the special moments. Together the bride and the DJ should have a clear understanding of exactly when these moments will take place. If the DJ did his job correctly the bride should leave this meeting 100% confident that the DJ will make her vision a reality. Carrying out your vision the day of your reception takes a team effort. The best DJs contact the bride's wedding vendors before the reception to go over the agenda. This is where any conflict with food service or photography issues should be discussed. By doing this the DJ can avoid any obstacles that could cause the reception to get off schedule. You can bet a wedding team that understands and agrees on the bride's vision will work more smoothly behind the scenes to make it happen. What does this mean to you? You should be looking for a DJ who can reassure you they represent your needs behind the scenes; that they are working for you. I can tell you this; there will always be wrinkles at the reception that the vendors must work out. But a wedding team (led by the DJ) that is on the same page will handle it without you ever finding out.
About The Author
Michael McCarthy, a top Wedding DJ for 25 years, has just retired. The preferred DJ for the Kennedy family and many four star hotels including the Four seasons and the Ritz Carlton, Mike has been the #1 choice for over 2000 brides. In retirement, his new focus is using his insider information to help brides find and hire the best DJ at the best price. For more info: http://www.djsecretsforthebride.com/
You're engaged, congratulations! Now what? If you're like most brides you're probably overwhelmed with all the planning that goes into creating a fairy-tale reception. Did you know that finding the perfect DJ is one of the biggest responsibilities you have? THAT'S RIGHT! "One of the biggest responsibilities". Let me prove it to you. Ask yourself what would you love to hear as your guests are leaving? Could it be...? "WOW that was the most fun I've ever had at a wedding, your reception was absolutely beautiful, every detail was perfect!" If that's what you want to hear, then finding the best DJ is the most important job you'll have when planning your reception. This is because the DJ has one of the biggest roles in creating your perfect day. You need to place a lot of TRUST and CONFIDENCE in this person. Why, you ask? Well consider this; you're probably going to spend thousands of dollars on a reception site, catering, flowers and a photographer to name a few expenses. While all these components are important, what do you think most people remember about your reception? Here are the most common top 3 answers: 1. the Fun 2. the Food 3. the Location Keeping this in mind, let me ask you this; if the location is breath-taking and the food is "to die for", could a bad performance by your DJ sour the whole day? Conversely, if the location poses logistic problems and the food is just o.k. could a spectacular, fun-filled, jammed packed dance floor make up for those problems? If you answered yes to both questions you now understand how important the DJ is. The reality is, you spend so much time and money to create the perfect reception it seems ashamed to ruin it by choosing the wrong DJ. So what's a nervous bride to do? Get the best DJ now! I know that if you're reading this your in the process of gathering information. Booking your entertainment should be a top priority. Doesn't it make sense that the best DJs book early? (as early as 12-18 months in advance) This means you need to find someone now. The less time you have, the more you need my help. I'm a retired DJ of 25 years and my goal is to help you understand the DJs role by revealing a DJ secret that most people in the business don't want you to know. DJ Secret #1: The majority of brides' think the DJ's role is to make a couple of announcements and play good music. This is because that's all they see. While these are very important to the success of your reception they only represent one-third of the DJs responsibilities. The other two-thirds of the DJs role happens behind the scenes. Helping you plan and managing the flow of the day's events is just as important as playing the right music. Consider this; the function manager's role is to make sure the food is hot and on time. That's their job. When the food service is finished they're gone. But the DJ is there from the beginning to the end. The timing of the food is only one of a number of factors the DJ needs to consider. A keen awareness of every aspect of your reception is the key to maintaining a flow that results in a packed dance floor the rest of the night. You might be asking yourself "how does a DJ prepare for all these factors?" The best DJs begin their preparations far in advance. Over the course of several conversations with the couple, the DJ should have a good feel for what they are looking for. The final details will be carefully choreographed at the planning meeting with bride a week or so before the reception. Here is where the bride discusses her vision of the perfect reception (order of events, music, announcements, etc...) It is the DJs responsibility to work with the bride in developing a time-line for all the special moments. Together the bride and the DJ should have a clear understanding of exactly when these moments will take place. If the DJ did his job correctly the bride should leave this meeting 100% confident that the DJ will make her vision a reality. Carrying out your vision the day of your reception takes a team effort. The best DJs contact the bride's wedding vendors before the reception to go over the agenda. This is where any conflict with food service or photography issues should be discussed. By doing this the DJ can avoid any obstacles that could cause the reception to get off schedule. You can bet a wedding team that understands and agrees on the bride's vision will work more smoothly behind the scenes to make it happen. What does this mean to you? You should be looking for a DJ who can reassure you they represent your needs behind the scenes; that they are working for you. I can tell you this; there will always be wrinkles at the reception that the vendors must work out. But a wedding team (led by the DJ) that is on the same page will handle it without you ever finding out.
About The Author
Michael McCarthy, a top Wedding DJ for 25 years, has just retired. The preferred DJ for the Kennedy family and many four star hotels including the Four seasons and the Ritz Carlton, Mike has been the #1 choice for over 2000 brides. In retirement, his new focus is using his insider information to help brides find and hire the best DJ at the best price. For more info: http://www.djsecretsforthebride.com/
Monday, September 24, 2007
Eagles and Dixie Chicks!
Brand New State Of The Art Nokia Theatre L.A. Live by: Chris Cabrera
To celebrate the opening of the brand new, state of the art Nokia Theatre l.a. live, The Eagles and the Dixie Chicks are coming to Los Angeles . With a new album out, The Eagles have a lot to celebrate. The Eagles are the best selling American group ever with the album, Eagles : Their Greatest Hits 1971 - 1975, and have established themselves as one of the greatest American rock bands of all time. With four number one albums and five number one singles and millions of albums sold, they have cemented themselves in rock history. With songs such as Take it Easy, Witchy Woman, Peaceful Easy Feeling, Hotel California, Desperado, One of These Nights, Lyin Eyes, they have shown they are a double edged sword - being able to create classic American rock and slower, timeless ballads. Despite incredible success, the band experienced inner turmoil and broke up in 1980. Eagles members Joe Walsh, Glenn Frey, and Don Henley both went on to respective solo careers. However, thirteen years after the bands break up, they reunited with the album titled, 'Hell Freezes Over', which was in reference to the statement made by Don Henley that the band would only reunite when hell freezes over. The album debuted at # 1 with the singles 'Get Over It' and 'Love Will Keep Us Alive'. Inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1998, the long awaited new Eagles album is expected to be released this year. Fans have eagerly awaited another Eagles tour and this fall the Eagles will be performing for six nights at the newest concert venue in Los Angeles , the Nokia Theatre l.a. live. As if the Eagles weren't enough for eager fans, the Dixie Chicks will be opening for them all six nights. Legendary in their own right, Dixie Chicks are the highest selling female band in any musical genre, having sold over 30 million albums. Formed in 1989 in Dallas , Texas the band endured years of struggle. The band was formed by sisters Martie and Emily Erwin (since married and names have been changed to Martie Maguire ans Emily Robinson, respectivley) and had a largely influenced bluegrass sound. They found some success opening for larger name bands but achieved no radio air time. The lead singer, Laura Lynch, was replaced with now lead singer Natalie Maines in 1995 and the Dixie Chicks found their stride. With the release of Wide Open Spaces in 1998 the Dixie Chicks found their long awaited success with such singles as 'Cowboy Take Me Away' and 'Wide Open Spaces'. The three women trio instantly became known for their soaring ballads, varied instrumental talents, and unique fashion sense. With a mix of twangy country vocals, catchy pop beats created by a plethora of instruments such as the fiddle, banjo, mandolin, and dobro, the Chicks sold over 12 million copies of their debut album. Proving they were no one hit wonder, their second album, released in 1999, titled 'Fly', sold over 10 million copies. The Dixie Chicks have been accused of abandoning their country roots but the fans didn't seem to mind. The Chicks have been able to cross all genres of sounds and fans. However, the Dixie Chicks are no stranger to controversy. Natalie Maines famed comment about President Bush in 2003 was heard all around the world. The comment enraged many country music fans who started a boycott of all things Dixie Chicks. Albums were burned, death threats were made, and air time was taken away. The Dixie Chicks never backed down from their comments and tried explaining their feelings to the public by stating that one could be patriotic without supporting a war. After several years of huge financial loss and abandonment of fans, the Dixie Chicks did what they do best - speak their mind through their music. Sometimes dubbed a 'comeback' album, the Dixie Chicks released 'Taking the Long Way' which went number one on both pop and country charts and became a gold record in less that a week. Their politically infused single 'Not Ready to Make Nice' voiced their feelings of their political controversy and became an instant hit. Even though ticket sales for The Dixie Chicks have become noticeably less in several southern states, their international fame and respect has grown. With over 13 Grammy awards and 30 million albums sold, The Dixie Chicks have proven they are no where near ready to make nice. Along with The Eagles, The Dixie Chicks will be performing for six nights at the new Nokia Theatre l.a. live. To house such headliners, only a state of the art venue will do - and that's exactly what the new Nokia Theatre l.a. live has to offer. Part of a brand new entertainment destination in downtown Los Angeles , the Nokia Theatre will boast state of the art acoustics and will be able to house over 7,000 fans.The new Nokia theatre will also be the new home for the Grammy awards as well as the E.S.P.Y. awards. There could be no better pair like The Dixie Chicks and The Eagles to open the brand new Nokia Theatre - guaranteed to be the concert event of the year. For all you entertainment needs, Barrys Tickets can help. For over 25 years, Barrys Tickets has been the number one source for tickets in Los Angeles . Offering tickets for all sporting, theatre, and concert events, Barrys has the tickets you are looking for. For tickets to The Dixie Chicks/Eagles event at the new Nokia Theatre, visit Barrys Tickets to make sure you have the best tickets to the best concert event of the year.
About The Author
Chris Cabrera works as web development for a ticket broker catering to all concert tickets including the new nokia theatre la http://www.barrystickets.com/los-angeles/nokia-theatrela/index.php for the eagles and the dixie chicks and all other concerts.
To celebrate the opening of the brand new, state of the art Nokia Theatre l.a. live, The Eagles and the Dixie Chicks are coming to Los Angeles . With a new album out, The Eagles have a lot to celebrate. The Eagles are the best selling American group ever with the album, Eagles : Their Greatest Hits 1971 - 1975, and have established themselves as one of the greatest American rock bands of all time. With four number one albums and five number one singles and millions of albums sold, they have cemented themselves in rock history. With songs such as Take it Easy, Witchy Woman, Peaceful Easy Feeling, Hotel California, Desperado, One of These Nights, Lyin Eyes, they have shown they are a double edged sword - being able to create classic American rock and slower, timeless ballads. Despite incredible success, the band experienced inner turmoil and broke up in 1980. Eagles members Joe Walsh, Glenn Frey, and Don Henley both went on to respective solo careers. However, thirteen years after the bands break up, they reunited with the album titled, 'Hell Freezes Over', which was in reference to the statement made by Don Henley that the band would only reunite when hell freezes over. The album debuted at # 1 with the singles 'Get Over It' and 'Love Will Keep Us Alive'. Inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1998, the long awaited new Eagles album is expected to be released this year. Fans have eagerly awaited another Eagles tour and this fall the Eagles will be performing for six nights at the newest concert venue in Los Angeles , the Nokia Theatre l.a. live. As if the Eagles weren't enough for eager fans, the Dixie Chicks will be opening for them all six nights. Legendary in their own right, Dixie Chicks are the highest selling female band in any musical genre, having sold over 30 million albums. Formed in 1989 in Dallas , Texas the band endured years of struggle. The band was formed by sisters Martie and Emily Erwin (since married and names have been changed to Martie Maguire ans Emily Robinson, respectivley) and had a largely influenced bluegrass sound. They found some success opening for larger name bands but achieved no radio air time. The lead singer, Laura Lynch, was replaced with now lead singer Natalie Maines in 1995 and the Dixie Chicks found their stride. With the release of Wide Open Spaces in 1998 the Dixie Chicks found their long awaited success with such singles as 'Cowboy Take Me Away' and 'Wide Open Spaces'. The three women trio instantly became known for their soaring ballads, varied instrumental talents, and unique fashion sense. With a mix of twangy country vocals, catchy pop beats created by a plethora of instruments such as the fiddle, banjo, mandolin, and dobro, the Chicks sold over 12 million copies of their debut album. Proving they were no one hit wonder, their second album, released in 1999, titled 'Fly', sold over 10 million copies. The Dixie Chicks have been accused of abandoning their country roots but the fans didn't seem to mind. The Chicks have been able to cross all genres of sounds and fans. However, the Dixie Chicks are no stranger to controversy. Natalie Maines famed comment about President Bush in 2003 was heard all around the world. The comment enraged many country music fans who started a boycott of all things Dixie Chicks. Albums were burned, death threats were made, and air time was taken away. The Dixie Chicks never backed down from their comments and tried explaining their feelings to the public by stating that one could be patriotic without supporting a war. After several years of huge financial loss and abandonment of fans, the Dixie Chicks did what they do best - speak their mind through their music. Sometimes dubbed a 'comeback' album, the Dixie Chicks released 'Taking the Long Way' which went number one on both pop and country charts and became a gold record in less that a week. Their politically infused single 'Not Ready to Make Nice' voiced their feelings of their political controversy and became an instant hit. Even though ticket sales for The Dixie Chicks have become noticeably less in several southern states, their international fame and respect has grown. With over 13 Grammy awards and 30 million albums sold, The Dixie Chicks have proven they are no where near ready to make nice. Along with The Eagles, The Dixie Chicks will be performing for six nights at the new Nokia Theatre l.a. live. To house such headliners, only a state of the art venue will do - and that's exactly what the new Nokia Theatre l.a. live has to offer. Part of a brand new entertainment destination in downtown Los Angeles , the Nokia Theatre will boast state of the art acoustics and will be able to house over 7,000 fans.The new Nokia theatre will also be the new home for the Grammy awards as well as the E.S.P.Y. awards. There could be no better pair like The Dixie Chicks and The Eagles to open the brand new Nokia Theatre - guaranteed to be the concert event of the year. For all you entertainment needs, Barrys Tickets can help. For over 25 years, Barrys Tickets has been the number one source for tickets in Los Angeles . Offering tickets for all sporting, theatre, and concert events, Barrys has the tickets you are looking for. For tickets to The Dixie Chicks/Eagles event at the new Nokia Theatre, visit Barrys Tickets to make sure you have the best tickets to the best concert event of the year.
About The Author
Chris Cabrera works as web development for a ticket broker catering to all concert tickets including the new nokia theatre la http://www.barrystickets.com/los-angeles/nokia-theatrela/index.php for the eagles and the dixie chicks and all other concerts.
Wednesday, August 22, 2007
Timing in Music
The Key is in the Counting by: Ed Mascari
What Makes a Piece of Music a "Good Song"? Most people say that a song is good if it has a good beat. Do you agree? Why Do You Struggle with Rhythm? Even if you think that the words, the melody or the harmony (chords) make a piece of music a good song, you probably agree at some level that the beat is often what draws you to a particular song. So why do rhythm and counting feel like such a struggle? If you are like most piano students, you simply want to play the tune, recognize the melody and feel the sense of accomplishment that comes from knowing that you played a song that you know. When you sit at the piano you might think to yourself: * Find those notes. * What fingers should I use? * How does that middle section go? * Where do I go when it says 'to CODA'? You may get so confused that you forget why you liked that song in the first place. But usually it was the beat of the song that grabbed your attention. Yet, like most things in life, you end up giving all of your attention to your most pressing problems. As the old adage says: "Art imitates life." If you draw a parallel from your own life to your piano playing, you will quickly understand why the challenge of counting causes you to put keeping the beat on the back burner. There are simply too many other musical issues vying for your attention! You Can Have Your Cake and Eat It Too Are you one of those people who eats the cake first or do you prefer to start with the icing? Are you a person who can delay your musical gratification until after you establish the beat? Or do you have to listen to yourself play the melody right away? You can have your cake and play the melody a few times with the right hand alone at first. But if you want to eat it too, you will need to look at music differently. Remember hearing one of your favorite songs sung by Frank Sinatra, Tony Bennett or Barbra Streisand? What makes their renditions so special is that they (and other great artists) know how to interpret the melody in their own unique vocal styles. Do you know how they do this? Frank, Tony, Barbra and others sing so freely because their background ensembles provide them with a great foundation: a GOOD BEAT. Your Left Hand Is Your "Count Basie Band" Once you begin seeing your left hand as a solid accompanying ensemble like the Count Basie Band that so often accompanied Sinatra, your piano playing will quickly improve! You're probably wondering how you can expect 5 fingers of one hand to do the work of 17 professional performing musicians. But when you look at what having a solid accompaniment does for the great song stylists, you can see how training your left hand to be the "band" can give your right hand the freedom to "sing". The Secret to Getting Unstuck If you're like most students, you find that keeping the beat is challenging. You may often feel like counting restricts rather than frees you as you play a song. The reason for this is that you are trying to accompany the right hand melody. You probably often find it hard to fit a left hand umpah or 10th with the right hand melody, and so you get frustrated. If you want to get unstuck, you will need to turn your thinking around. Here's the secret to getting unstuck: Start by giving your attention to learning the left hand accompaniment in strict tempo. Once you can do this, everything else will fall into place. 7 Ways to Transform Your 5 Fingers into the "Band" 1. Learn the notes to be played by the left hand. 2. Start counting slowly without playing anything 3. Practice the left hand part alone slowly and in strict rhythm (use a metronome if you feel ready) 4. Start playing the song with hands together at a slow tempo several times: focus mainly on one short (2 to 4 measures) section at a time. 5. Use your metronome to gradually increase the tempo 6. Get a sense of being the "band" by using a rhythm unit (drum machine: many of the inexpensive keyboards have wonderful drum sounds) 7. Listen for the right hand melody and make sure that you can always hear it when playing hands together One Final Note The next time you listen to one of your favorite artists singing a good song, pay attention to the background. Notice how the solid accompaniment keeps the beat steady, the music flowing and the performer free to express herself. From now on, give your left hand the long overdue attention that it deserves. Recognize how valuable its role is in creating great music. Finally, remember that the key to success is in the counting. By starting with the left hand accompaniment and then developing a solid rhythm, you will be well on your way to playing many good songs. Copyright © 2007 by Ed Mascari http://www.edmascaripianostudio.com ed@edmascari.com 508-651-2590 (Natick Studio) Mail: 57 Hunter Ave, Hudson MA 01749-3043
About The Author
Ed Mascari has been teaching piano privately to children and adults for nearly three decades. He is a seasoned performer (pianist/ jazz organist) of show tunes, jazz and popular music as well as a published classical composer and church musician. Ed combines his extensive experience to guide students in a variety of styles as he helps them achieve their unique potential. Ed teaches group classes for piano students in the tele-class format. All of the programs at http://www.mykeyboardsuccess.com/ focus on specific topics that are designed to give participants the tools and techniques that will help them to play piano better and better. To receive special subscriber bonuses: free sheet music and audio files for "Six Simple Songs to Make You Smile", the helpful article "The Key Is to Get to the Keys: How to Set Up and Maintain a Successful Practice Routine", a free lesson "How to Arrange a Song in 12 Easy Steps" and a subscription to our ezine "Conversations at the Piano", sign up today at http://www.edmascaripianostudio.com/
What Makes a Piece of Music a "Good Song"? Most people say that a song is good if it has a good beat. Do you agree? Why Do You Struggle with Rhythm? Even if you think that the words, the melody or the harmony (chords) make a piece of music a good song, you probably agree at some level that the beat is often what draws you to a particular song. So why do rhythm and counting feel like such a struggle? If you are like most piano students, you simply want to play the tune, recognize the melody and feel the sense of accomplishment that comes from knowing that you played a song that you know. When you sit at the piano you might think to yourself: * Find those notes. * What fingers should I use? * How does that middle section go? * Where do I go when it says 'to CODA'? You may get so confused that you forget why you liked that song in the first place. But usually it was the beat of the song that grabbed your attention. Yet, like most things in life, you end up giving all of your attention to your most pressing problems. As the old adage says: "Art imitates life." If you draw a parallel from your own life to your piano playing, you will quickly understand why the challenge of counting causes you to put keeping the beat on the back burner. There are simply too many other musical issues vying for your attention! You Can Have Your Cake and Eat It Too Are you one of those people who eats the cake first or do you prefer to start with the icing? Are you a person who can delay your musical gratification until after you establish the beat? Or do you have to listen to yourself play the melody right away? You can have your cake and play the melody a few times with the right hand alone at first. But if you want to eat it too, you will need to look at music differently. Remember hearing one of your favorite songs sung by Frank Sinatra, Tony Bennett or Barbra Streisand? What makes their renditions so special is that they (and other great artists) know how to interpret the melody in their own unique vocal styles. Do you know how they do this? Frank, Tony, Barbra and others sing so freely because their background ensembles provide them with a great foundation: a GOOD BEAT. Your Left Hand Is Your "Count Basie Band" Once you begin seeing your left hand as a solid accompanying ensemble like the Count Basie Band that so often accompanied Sinatra, your piano playing will quickly improve! You're probably wondering how you can expect 5 fingers of one hand to do the work of 17 professional performing musicians. But when you look at what having a solid accompaniment does for the great song stylists, you can see how training your left hand to be the "band" can give your right hand the freedom to "sing". The Secret to Getting Unstuck If you're like most students, you find that keeping the beat is challenging. You may often feel like counting restricts rather than frees you as you play a song. The reason for this is that you are trying to accompany the right hand melody. You probably often find it hard to fit a left hand umpah or 10th with the right hand melody, and so you get frustrated. If you want to get unstuck, you will need to turn your thinking around. Here's the secret to getting unstuck: Start by giving your attention to learning the left hand accompaniment in strict tempo. Once you can do this, everything else will fall into place. 7 Ways to Transform Your 5 Fingers into the "Band" 1. Learn the notes to be played by the left hand. 2. Start counting slowly without playing anything 3. Practice the left hand part alone slowly and in strict rhythm (use a metronome if you feel ready) 4. Start playing the song with hands together at a slow tempo several times: focus mainly on one short (2 to 4 measures) section at a time. 5. Use your metronome to gradually increase the tempo 6. Get a sense of being the "band" by using a rhythm unit (drum machine: many of the inexpensive keyboards have wonderful drum sounds) 7. Listen for the right hand melody and make sure that you can always hear it when playing hands together One Final Note The next time you listen to one of your favorite artists singing a good song, pay attention to the background. Notice how the solid accompaniment keeps the beat steady, the music flowing and the performer free to express herself. From now on, give your left hand the long overdue attention that it deserves. Recognize how valuable its role is in creating great music. Finally, remember that the key to success is in the counting. By starting with the left hand accompaniment and then developing a solid rhythm, you will be well on your way to playing many good songs. Copyright © 2007 by Ed Mascari http://www.edmascaripianostudio.com ed@edmascari.com 508-651-2590 (Natick Studio) Mail: 57 Hunter Ave, Hudson MA 01749-3043
About The Author
Ed Mascari has been teaching piano privately to children and adults for nearly three decades. He is a seasoned performer (pianist/ jazz organist) of show tunes, jazz and popular music as well as a published classical composer and church musician. Ed combines his extensive experience to guide students in a variety of styles as he helps them achieve their unique potential. Ed teaches group classes for piano students in the tele-class format. All of the programs at http://www.mykeyboardsuccess.com/ focus on specific topics that are designed to give participants the tools and techniques that will help them to play piano better and better. To receive special subscriber bonuses: free sheet music and audio files for "Six Simple Songs to Make You Smile", the helpful article "The Key Is to Get to the Keys: How to Set Up and Maintain a Successful Practice Routine", a free lesson "How to Arrange a Song in 12 Easy Steps" and a subscription to our ezine "Conversations at the Piano", sign up today at http://www.edmascaripianostudio.com/
Friday, December 15, 2006
Bob Seger Tickets
Bob Seger Tickets: IXS by: Heidi Grumm
Bob Seger developed into one of the most popular heartland rockers over the course of the '70s. Originally He was a hard-driving rocker in the vein of fellow Michigan garage rockers the Rationals and Mitch Ryder. He successfully created a unique American Sound which was actually the combination of the driving charge of Ryder's Detroit Wheels with Stonesy garage rock and devotion to hard-edged soul and R&B(http://events.ixs.net/R-B-Soul.aspx ). Inspite of many lost opportunities of the initial Years of his career, Seger finally achieved a national audience in 1976 with the back-to-back release of his albums Live Bullet and Night Moves. These two Albums were a superb success which helped Seger in retaining his popularity for the coming two decades, releasing seven Top Ten, platinum-selling albums in a row. Seger shown his interest in music in his early age. He began playing music in 1961 as the leader of the Detroit-based trio the Decibels; his future manager, Eddie "Punch" Andrews was also a member of the band. Moving to Ann Arbor, he played with the Town Criers before he became the keyboardist and vocalist for Doug Brown & the Omens. The band released "The Ballad of the Yellow Beret," that was parody of the Sgt. Barry Sadler song "The Ballad of the Green Beret." However, It proved a set back for them when Sadler threatened a lawsuit against this song.Resultantly, The single was withdrawn shortly after its release. The First Solo Single of Seger was "East Side Story, which was released in 1966. This song gained huge popularity and soon it became a regional hit. Many other local hit singles followed on Cameo Records, including "Persecution Smith" and "Heavy Music," before his label folded. The Year 1968 was very important in the Career of Bob Seger as in this year, He successfully formed the Bob Seger System and got the golden opportunity of signing with the reknowned Capitol Records. His debut album, Ramblin' Gamblin' Man, was released by Capitol Records in the spring of this eventual year. The title track met a grand success and it became a national hit, climbing to number 17. Seger achieved a commercial breakthrough with his 1976 album Night Moves which featured several hits including the highly evocative title song. Night Moves became a blockbuster, generating the hit singles "Night Moves," "Mainstreet," and "Rock & Roll Never Forgets." Stranger in Town, released in the summer 1978, was just as successful, featuring the hits "Still the Same," "Hollywood Nights," "We've Got Tonite," and "Old Time Rock & Roll." His most recognizable songs are almost certainly "Old Time Rock & Roll" (featured in the film Risky Business) and "Like a Rock" (most familiar to many younger Americans through its association with a long-running Chevrolet ad campaign). Seger also co-wrote the Eagles #1 hit song "Heartache Tonight" from their 1979 album The Long Run. Keeping in view of his grand successes, Seger was acknowledged as America's most popular rockers. Seger's next album, 1980's Against the Wind, became his first number one album and all of its big hits -- "Fire Lake," "Against the Wind," "You'll Accomp'ny Me" -- were ballads. The live album Nine Tonight continued his multi-platinum success in 1981, selling three million copies and peaking at number three. Seger released his next popular Album “The Distance” in 1982.While The Distance featured "Shame on the Moon," his biggest hit single to date, it had a record breaking sales of a million copies which shows his unmatched popularity.Seger also began to drastically reduce his recording and touring schedules -- he only released one other album, 1986's Like a Rock, during the '80s. Like a Rock and its supporting tour were both successes, paving the way for "Shakedown," a song taken from the soundtrack to Beverly Hills Cop II, to become Seger's lone number one hit in 1987. Four years after its release, he returned with The Fire Inside. Although the album went platinum and reached the Top Ten, it only appealed to Seger's devoted following, as did 1995's It's a Mystery, which became his first album since Live Bullet to fail to go platinum, leveling off at gold status. Also during 2004, Seger was working on his first new album in 10 years, titled Face the Promise which was released on September 12, 2006. The first single, "Wait For Me", landed on radio in July. The Encyclopedia of Rock And Roll stated that "His throaty, authoritative delivery is a pleasure to listen to, and the Silver Bullet Band is superb." For more information about Bob Seger visit: http://events.ixs.net/concert-tickets/Pop-Rock/Bob-Seger/index.aspx
About The Author
Heidi Grumm hosts http://events.ixs.net and expresses her passion for events through writing and discussion. She works for Less Corporation at http://www.hrlady.com Copyright Heidi Grumm.
Bob Seger developed into one of the most popular heartland rockers over the course of the '70s. Originally He was a hard-driving rocker in the vein of fellow Michigan garage rockers the Rationals and Mitch Ryder. He successfully created a unique American Sound which was actually the combination of the driving charge of Ryder's Detroit Wheels with Stonesy garage rock and devotion to hard-edged soul and R&B(http://events.ixs.net/R-B-Soul.aspx ). Inspite of many lost opportunities of the initial Years of his career, Seger finally achieved a national audience in 1976 with the back-to-back release of his albums Live Bullet and Night Moves. These two Albums were a superb success which helped Seger in retaining his popularity for the coming two decades, releasing seven Top Ten, platinum-selling albums in a row. Seger shown his interest in music in his early age. He began playing music in 1961 as the leader of the Detroit-based trio the Decibels; his future manager, Eddie "Punch" Andrews was also a member of the band. Moving to Ann Arbor, he played with the Town Criers before he became the keyboardist and vocalist for Doug Brown & the Omens. The band released "The Ballad of the Yellow Beret," that was parody of the Sgt. Barry Sadler song "The Ballad of the Green Beret." However, It proved a set back for them when Sadler threatened a lawsuit against this song.Resultantly, The single was withdrawn shortly after its release. The First Solo Single of Seger was "East Side Story, which was released in 1966. This song gained huge popularity and soon it became a regional hit. Many other local hit singles followed on Cameo Records, including "Persecution Smith" and "Heavy Music," before his label folded. The Year 1968 was very important in the Career of Bob Seger as in this year, He successfully formed the Bob Seger System and got the golden opportunity of signing with the reknowned Capitol Records. His debut album, Ramblin' Gamblin' Man, was released by Capitol Records in the spring of this eventual year. The title track met a grand success and it became a national hit, climbing to number 17. Seger achieved a commercial breakthrough with his 1976 album Night Moves which featured several hits including the highly evocative title song. Night Moves became a blockbuster, generating the hit singles "Night Moves," "Mainstreet," and "Rock & Roll Never Forgets." Stranger in Town, released in the summer 1978, was just as successful, featuring the hits "Still the Same," "Hollywood Nights," "We've Got Tonite," and "Old Time Rock & Roll." His most recognizable songs are almost certainly "Old Time Rock & Roll" (featured in the film Risky Business) and "Like a Rock" (most familiar to many younger Americans through its association with a long-running Chevrolet ad campaign). Seger also co-wrote the Eagles #1 hit song "Heartache Tonight" from their 1979 album The Long Run. Keeping in view of his grand successes, Seger was acknowledged as America's most popular rockers. Seger's next album, 1980's Against the Wind, became his first number one album and all of its big hits -- "Fire Lake," "Against the Wind," "You'll Accomp'ny Me" -- were ballads. The live album Nine Tonight continued his multi-platinum success in 1981, selling three million copies and peaking at number three. Seger released his next popular Album “The Distance” in 1982.While The Distance featured "Shame on the Moon," his biggest hit single to date, it had a record breaking sales of a million copies which shows his unmatched popularity.Seger also began to drastically reduce his recording and touring schedules -- he only released one other album, 1986's Like a Rock, during the '80s. Like a Rock and its supporting tour were both successes, paving the way for "Shakedown," a song taken from the soundtrack to Beverly Hills Cop II, to become Seger's lone number one hit in 1987. Four years after its release, he returned with The Fire Inside. Although the album went platinum and reached the Top Ten, it only appealed to Seger's devoted following, as did 1995's It's a Mystery, which became his first album since Live Bullet to fail to go platinum, leveling off at gold status. Also during 2004, Seger was working on his first new album in 10 years, titled Face the Promise which was released on September 12, 2006. The first single, "Wait For Me", landed on radio in July. The Encyclopedia of Rock And Roll stated that "His throaty, authoritative delivery is a pleasure to listen to, and the Silver Bullet Band is superb." For more information about Bob Seger visit: http://events.ixs.net/concert-tickets/Pop-Rock/Bob-Seger/index.aspx
About The Author
Heidi Grumm hosts http://events.ixs.net and expresses her passion for events through writing and discussion. She works for Less Corporation at http://www.hrlady.com Copyright Heidi Grumm.
Monday, December 04, 2006
Musicians and Stage Fright
Musicians and Performance Anxiety by: Kevin Sinclair
Have you ever faced your time to shine, and felt overcome with an intense hesitation or worry about an upcoming performance? As the time nears for you to address your audience, do you suffer from sweaty palms? Is there a lump in your throat? Do you experience tremors, tension, stuttering, upset stomach or loss of focus? All of these symptoms are a sign that you may suffer from performance anxiety, which is a common problem that requires a little mental rewiring to get you on the right track. Music performance anxiety develops from the thoughts, feelings and habits of a musician. The level of anxiety that one has will affect a musician’s desire to perform, as well as their ability. In order to deliver a high-quality performance, a musician must overcome the mental obstacles that create a barrier between wanting to perform and actually completing the act. When you feel anxious, pressure begins to build up that makes it impossible to pick up an instrument or sing a song. Main Types of Performance Anxiety There are three main kinds of performance anxiety that musicians encounter. The first occurs before a performance date is even mentioned. Fear of rejection or self-doubt regarding their abilities may hinder a musicians attempt to arrange a showing of their talents. The anxiety sometimes mounts to the point where a musician never feels they are truly ready to perform in front of others. The second type of anxiety occurs during an actual performance. Gripped by fear of what the audience thinks of them, a musician’s body might tremble. Sweat may form on their forehead, nose, neck or hands. These bodily reactions may also impact the way an instrument is played. Voices become tight or locked, emitting cracked, flat or quivering notes. The anxiety of a musician might be so high that they may actually self-sabotage their performance without even knowing it. Anxious musicians often become quite distracted by the slightest movement or noise during a performance. They might take this opportunity to blame their inability to complete their set because of outside interruptions. This is just an excuse. Within themselves, they do not feel completely adequate to continue their performance. Musicians with performance anxiety often exhibit poor concentration, as well as loss of focus. After a performance, the anxiety madness continues, which is seen through a harsh, unforgiving critique of their presentation. The musician will nit-pick every aspect of their set and despite positive encouragement and comments, they will continue to downplay and dismantle their ability. Tips On Managing Performance Anxiety When it comes to getting over the hump of performance anxiety, there are numerous ways to combat the fears and doubt that come with presentation. Below are five aspects of performing that a musician suffering from anxiety should take into consideration: 1) Self-Assessment When you get to know the ins and outs of yourself as an individual, as well as a musician, you are inching your way towards overcoming performance anxiety. Knowing what makes you tick both inside and outside musical circles will help you to better deal with the problems you face before, during and after a performance. A musician should analyze their performance goals, personal capabilities and limitations. Musicians should also know that everyone has to start somewhere with infinite room for improvement. It is quite important for a musician to perform to the best of their abilities, as well as learn from mistakes and peer criticism. 2) Exposure: Baby Steps Musicians should take the opportunity to gradually expose themselves to varying levels of performing. One moment a full-length mirror becomes a suitable audience, while the next could be a crowd of five friends. Testing low, medium and high levels of stressful performance situations will help musicians slowly overcome the issues faced in regards to performing. Additional suggestions include practice performances in an empty theater, dress rehearsals with friends and taping acts, then viewing them with family and friends. 3) Preparation In anything that we do, preparation is an important component for achieving success. A good performance is one that has been thought out, thoroughly visualized and played over and over again in the mind. Once the mental preparation is complete, the physical part of the process involves sufficient practice and specific rehearsing for the particular venue you may perform at. Before a performance, a musician should enter this moment with a clear head. Meditation, yoga and other muscle relaxation techniques can create the right state of mind. 4) During a Performance Every musician at some point in their lives will feel the flutter of butterflies before, during or after a performance. This is a normal occurrence that just takes some longer to get over. When it comes to the audience, you shouldn’t focus on blocking them out, but instead embrace them as support. If you go into a performance thinking that no one likes you or during a presentation focus on scowling faces, you will surely surrender to your flight or fight performance anxiety tactics. Try to put anxiety in the backseat and attempt to stay calm. If you make a mistake, such as tickle the wrong piano keys, simply move on and do not dwell on small imperfections that pale in comparison to the overall scheme of things. Sometimes, if you don’t wear your disappointment or errors on your face, the audience is less apt to remember or care about mistakes. Breathing techniques will also come in handy once you get into the thick of performing and feel a touch of anxiety. 5) After the Performance After each performance, take the time to assess yourself before relying on the approval or criticism of others. No one but you truly knows all of the hard work and preparation that went into your performance. Take the time to give yourself a mental pat on the back. Next, combine outside comments with your gut feeling to decide on what you can do next time. Regardless if you had the performance of your life or tanked on your first break, there are always aspects of your musical craft that you can still shape and mold for the future.
About The Author
Kevin Sinclair is the publisher and editor of http://musicianhome.com. Visit here for more tips on learning to sing.
Have you ever faced your time to shine, and felt overcome with an intense hesitation or worry about an upcoming performance? As the time nears for you to address your audience, do you suffer from sweaty palms? Is there a lump in your throat? Do you experience tremors, tension, stuttering, upset stomach or loss of focus? All of these symptoms are a sign that you may suffer from performance anxiety, which is a common problem that requires a little mental rewiring to get you on the right track. Music performance anxiety develops from the thoughts, feelings and habits of a musician. The level of anxiety that one has will affect a musician’s desire to perform, as well as their ability. In order to deliver a high-quality performance, a musician must overcome the mental obstacles that create a barrier between wanting to perform and actually completing the act. When you feel anxious, pressure begins to build up that makes it impossible to pick up an instrument or sing a song. Main Types of Performance Anxiety There are three main kinds of performance anxiety that musicians encounter. The first occurs before a performance date is even mentioned. Fear of rejection or self-doubt regarding their abilities may hinder a musicians attempt to arrange a showing of their talents. The anxiety sometimes mounts to the point where a musician never feels they are truly ready to perform in front of others. The second type of anxiety occurs during an actual performance. Gripped by fear of what the audience thinks of them, a musician’s body might tremble. Sweat may form on their forehead, nose, neck or hands. These bodily reactions may also impact the way an instrument is played. Voices become tight or locked, emitting cracked, flat or quivering notes. The anxiety of a musician might be so high that they may actually self-sabotage their performance without even knowing it. Anxious musicians often become quite distracted by the slightest movement or noise during a performance. They might take this opportunity to blame their inability to complete their set because of outside interruptions. This is just an excuse. Within themselves, they do not feel completely adequate to continue their performance. Musicians with performance anxiety often exhibit poor concentration, as well as loss of focus. After a performance, the anxiety madness continues, which is seen through a harsh, unforgiving critique of their presentation. The musician will nit-pick every aspect of their set and despite positive encouragement and comments, they will continue to downplay and dismantle their ability. Tips On Managing Performance Anxiety When it comes to getting over the hump of performance anxiety, there are numerous ways to combat the fears and doubt that come with presentation. Below are five aspects of performing that a musician suffering from anxiety should take into consideration: 1) Self-Assessment When you get to know the ins and outs of yourself as an individual, as well as a musician, you are inching your way towards overcoming performance anxiety. Knowing what makes you tick both inside and outside musical circles will help you to better deal with the problems you face before, during and after a performance. A musician should analyze their performance goals, personal capabilities and limitations. Musicians should also know that everyone has to start somewhere with infinite room for improvement. It is quite important for a musician to perform to the best of their abilities, as well as learn from mistakes and peer criticism. 2) Exposure: Baby Steps Musicians should take the opportunity to gradually expose themselves to varying levels of performing. One moment a full-length mirror becomes a suitable audience, while the next could be a crowd of five friends. Testing low, medium and high levels of stressful performance situations will help musicians slowly overcome the issues faced in regards to performing. Additional suggestions include practice performances in an empty theater, dress rehearsals with friends and taping acts, then viewing them with family and friends. 3) Preparation In anything that we do, preparation is an important component for achieving success. A good performance is one that has been thought out, thoroughly visualized and played over and over again in the mind. Once the mental preparation is complete, the physical part of the process involves sufficient practice and specific rehearsing for the particular venue you may perform at. Before a performance, a musician should enter this moment with a clear head. Meditation, yoga and other muscle relaxation techniques can create the right state of mind. 4) During a Performance Every musician at some point in their lives will feel the flutter of butterflies before, during or after a performance. This is a normal occurrence that just takes some longer to get over. When it comes to the audience, you shouldn’t focus on blocking them out, but instead embrace them as support. If you go into a performance thinking that no one likes you or during a presentation focus on scowling faces, you will surely surrender to your flight or fight performance anxiety tactics. Try to put anxiety in the backseat and attempt to stay calm. If you make a mistake, such as tickle the wrong piano keys, simply move on and do not dwell on small imperfections that pale in comparison to the overall scheme of things. Sometimes, if you don’t wear your disappointment or errors on your face, the audience is less apt to remember or care about mistakes. Breathing techniques will also come in handy once you get into the thick of performing and feel a touch of anxiety. 5) After the Performance After each performance, take the time to assess yourself before relying on the approval or criticism of others. No one but you truly knows all of the hard work and preparation that went into your performance. Take the time to give yourself a mental pat on the back. Next, combine outside comments with your gut feeling to decide on what you can do next time. Regardless if you had the performance of your life or tanked on your first break, there are always aspects of your musical craft that you can still shape and mold for the future.
About The Author
Kevin Sinclair is the publisher and editor of http://musicianhome.com. Visit here for more tips on learning to sing.
Wednesday, November 22, 2006
Stick With Your Guitar Practicing
When I Grow Up I Want To Play Guitar by: Mike Hayes
The secret to becoming a really good guitar player is, start playing and never stop. It really IS that simple! Many people say "Gee you know, I've always wanted to play guitar, or I'd like to play guitar but I don't think I'll be very good at it". You know if you really want to play guitar, just start. Don't listen to all the advice of all the people around you. Now, here's a little story I'm sure many of you will be able to relate to. It's a story about Paddy - a guy who knew what he wanted to do and followed his heart. When Paddy was in grade five at school, the teacher asked the class "What do you want to be when you grow up?". She would ask each member of the class. "What do you want to be when you grow up, Jimmy? " Jimmy would say. "A doctor miss". "Oh that's very good choice Jimmy, that's great". "What do you want to be when you grow up, Mary?" "I'm going to be an accountant miss" "Excellent choice, very good choice" Now when it came to Paddy, she asked. " What do you want to be when you grow up, Paddy?" Paddy replied, "a guitar player". The whole class errupted in laughter. The whole class .... it was just amazing. Paddy wasn't expecting this reaction. He had no idea why this was happening . Paddy hadn't started to play guitar or anything yet, but that's really what he wanted to do. So the teacher asked again. "What do you really want to do when you grow up, Paddy?" Paddy said, "play guitar". And the same thing only louder, everybody laughed. Paddy just couldn't work out why they had this reaction. So he sat down red faced and quite puzzled trying to work this out. Anyway, a year later, the teacher asked the class, "what do you want to be when you grow up". When it came to Paddy's turn, the teacher said. "Now Paddy, what do you want to be when you grow up?" So Paddy stood up, he wasn't as confident this time as he was the previous year, but he said. "A guitar player". And the same thing, the whole class erupted. Paddy looked around for support from the teacher but.... she was kind of buckled up in pain trying to hold back the laughter. And so anyway he got to thinking that maybe he wasn't giving them the answer they want. So the next year, he was prepared for it. Paddy thought, right, I've got the hang of this now. So when it came around to his turn again, she asked. "Now Paddy"...... and of course the class is just waiting for his answer. "Now Paddy, what are you going to do when you grow up? What do you want be?" this time, he said............"a swimmer". And the whole class laughed AGAIN!. By this time he was REALLY angry ... he looked down to his, (now) ex -friend , who was sitting pretty close to him and Paddy asked.... "What's SO funny about that?" The guy just looked up and said... "But you CAN'T swim!" Paddy exclaimed, " does that matter?" He just couldn't really get the hang of this. Of course the thing was Paddy really wasn't giving them the stock standard answer that they wanted. Like a doctor or a dentist or something like that. But that's really what Paddy wanted to do and the reality is that all he's ever really done. Now the reason why I'm telling you this is because the formula to become a really good guitar player is quite simple. There's only two steps. Decide to do it. Do it. Now, along the way you'll need a properly set up guitar. You'll need your equipment to be easy to play. And you'll need top quality information. But the most important thing is you need to be internally motivated. That's if you want to be really good. If you are internally motivated that means you REALLY want to play guitar, that's what you want to do. There's really nothing that can stop you. So until next time have fun with your guitar playing and if that's what you want to do, just go for it!
About The Author
Mike Hayes is a guitar teacher, author, performing musician and session guitarist with over 30 years of professional experience. Mike's methods are legendary and have earned the praise of top authorities in guitar instruction. He reveals his guitar secrets at http://www.GuitarCoaching.com.
The secret to becoming a really good guitar player is, start playing and never stop. It really IS that simple! Many people say "Gee you know, I've always wanted to play guitar, or I'd like to play guitar but I don't think I'll be very good at it". You know if you really want to play guitar, just start. Don't listen to all the advice of all the people around you. Now, here's a little story I'm sure many of you will be able to relate to. It's a story about Paddy - a guy who knew what he wanted to do and followed his heart. When Paddy was in grade five at school, the teacher asked the class "What do you want to be when you grow up?". She would ask each member of the class. "What do you want to be when you grow up, Jimmy? " Jimmy would say. "A doctor miss". "Oh that's very good choice Jimmy, that's great". "What do you want to be when you grow up, Mary?" "I'm going to be an accountant miss" "Excellent choice, very good choice" Now when it came to Paddy, she asked. " What do you want to be when you grow up, Paddy?" Paddy replied, "a guitar player". The whole class errupted in laughter. The whole class .... it was just amazing. Paddy wasn't expecting this reaction. He had no idea why this was happening . Paddy hadn't started to play guitar or anything yet, but that's really what he wanted to do. So the teacher asked again. "What do you really want to do when you grow up, Paddy?" Paddy said, "play guitar". And the same thing only louder, everybody laughed. Paddy just couldn't work out why they had this reaction. So he sat down red faced and quite puzzled trying to work this out. Anyway, a year later, the teacher asked the class, "what do you want to be when you grow up". When it came to Paddy's turn, the teacher said. "Now Paddy, what do you want to be when you grow up?" So Paddy stood up, he wasn't as confident this time as he was the previous year, but he said. "A guitar player". And the same thing, the whole class erupted. Paddy looked around for support from the teacher but.... she was kind of buckled up in pain trying to hold back the laughter. And so anyway he got to thinking that maybe he wasn't giving them the answer they want. So the next year, he was prepared for it. Paddy thought, right, I've got the hang of this now. So when it came around to his turn again, she asked. "Now Paddy"...... and of course the class is just waiting for his answer. "Now Paddy, what are you going to do when you grow up? What do you want be?" this time, he said............"a swimmer". And the whole class laughed AGAIN!. By this time he was REALLY angry ... he looked down to his, (now) ex -friend , who was sitting pretty close to him and Paddy asked.... "What's SO funny about that?" The guy just looked up and said... "But you CAN'T swim!" Paddy exclaimed, " does that matter?" He just couldn't really get the hang of this. Of course the thing was Paddy really wasn't giving them the stock standard answer that they wanted. Like a doctor or a dentist or something like that. But that's really what Paddy wanted to do and the reality is that all he's ever really done. Now the reason why I'm telling you this is because the formula to become a really good guitar player is quite simple. There's only two steps. Decide to do it. Do it. Now, along the way you'll need a properly set up guitar. You'll need your equipment to be easy to play. And you'll need top quality information. But the most important thing is you need to be internally motivated. That's if you want to be really good. If you are internally motivated that means you REALLY want to play guitar, that's what you want to do. There's really nothing that can stop you. So until next time have fun with your guitar playing and if that's what you want to do, just go for it!
About The Author
Mike Hayes is a guitar teacher, author, performing musician and session guitarist with over 30 years of professional experience. Mike's methods are legendary and have earned the praise of top authorities in guitar instruction. He reveals his guitar secrets at http://www.GuitarCoaching.com.
Monday, April 10, 2006
Music: Good for Your Brain
Music affects the Cognitive Domain of Brain by: Dr Julie Trudeau
Music has a great effect over our mind. It directly affects our on the subconscious and the conscious mind. Music has a great effect on the Cognitive part of the mind. Music generates internal, abstract or symbolic illustrations. Music has a great capacity to stir up deep and rich emotions. Music is considered to be the important and essential social outlet for emotional release. Not only that Music has a capacity to heighten emotional life and that emotions are an important component of the music experience.
Now the question arises how music affects our Cognitive domain of our brain. Our brain is basically divided in two major hemispheres. One of the hemispheres is affected by the verbal sounds and music and the other one is greatly affected by the non verbal sounds and these non verbal sounds are Digital Music or we can say vibrational sounds.
Dr. Julie explain about these vibrational sounds that triggers our emotions and helps in the betterment of personality by stress reduction, self realization and many more things.
Thus Digital Music and the vibrational sounds play an important role in our life.
To know more about Digital Music Visit Dr. Julie: http://www.drjulietrudeau.com
About The Author
Dr. Julie Trudeau - A native of Kankakee, Illinois,in 1984, Dr. Julie Trudeau graduated from the Palmer College of Chiropractic in Davenport, Iowa in America, at the age of 22, and has been a licensed natural health care provider in Australia since 1985.
Music has a great effect over our mind. It directly affects our on the subconscious and the conscious mind. Music has a great effect on the Cognitive part of the mind. Music generates internal, abstract or symbolic illustrations. Music has a great capacity to stir up deep and rich emotions. Music is considered to be the important and essential social outlet for emotional release. Not only that Music has a capacity to heighten emotional life and that emotions are an important component of the music experience.
Now the question arises how music affects our Cognitive domain of our brain. Our brain is basically divided in two major hemispheres. One of the hemispheres is affected by the verbal sounds and music and the other one is greatly affected by the non verbal sounds and these non verbal sounds are Digital Music or we can say vibrational sounds.
Dr. Julie explain about these vibrational sounds that triggers our emotions and helps in the betterment of personality by stress reduction, self realization and many more things.
Thus Digital Music and the vibrational sounds play an important role in our life.
To know more about Digital Music Visit Dr. Julie: http://www.drjulietrudeau.com
About The Author
Dr. Julie Trudeau - A native of Kankakee, Illinois,in 1984, Dr. Julie Trudeau graduated from the Palmer College of Chiropractic in Davenport, Iowa in America, at the age of 22, and has been a licensed natural health care provider in Australia since 1985.
Tuesday, March 21, 2006
Pink Floyd Guitar Style
The Best Method to Play Pink Floyd Music on Your Guitar and to Prepare Well! by: Ameen Jabbar
Obtain an effective quality guitar
Obviously you have to own a guitar. The best ones are Fender because that is what David Gilmour uses (Pink Floyd guitarist). David Gilmour uses a Fender Stratocaster which are quite expensive but you can buy a Fender Strat which are cheaper, over £100 or $200.
Before you start to play, tune your guitar strings. Electronic tuners are inexpensive. Get one.
Get some guitar effects, Gilmour does why not you!
It is best to obtain some extra effects such as reverb, distortion or gain and maybe some chorus or delay. Your playing will sound more pleasing to the ear, fun and professional.
Get hold of Pink Floyd Guitar tablature
Find some Pink Floyd Guitar tabs or sheet music by searching online. To save you time, the best site is Pink Floyd Guitar because it consists of lessons and doesn't just give you the tab and leave you to it. The address is located in the Resource box below. Pick your Pink Floyd guitar tab for your chosen song and try and pick a simpler song to start off.
Get the feel for the music
Listen to the Pink Floyd song the one that you hope to play. Hear how it sounds and get the feel for it. Concentrate on different layers of music provided by the different instruments, however, you are playing the guitar parts.
Play your Pink Floyd guitar tab
Play slowly at first, gradually improving your speed. Listen to the solo slowly and learn to play along. Some media players allow you to digitally slow down the tempo of a song without changing the pitch. Start learning the tablature. Learn one measure at a time, one line at a time. You do not need to learn an entire song on your first try. Play for a minimum of 10-15 minutes per day with one day off each week.
Allow time to improve. Don't get discouraged if you play poorly on certain days. Everyone has bad days. Start simple and gradually move to complex.
Play against a backing track
Play your Pink Floyd guitar tab over a backing track. These are available from monthly guitar magazines. Also maybe online somewhere.
Record yourself playing the Pink Floyd guitar tab
You do this by downloading or purchasing music software or just use the recorder on you pc but you would need a mic, however, they are very cheap.
Why not play it in a band!!
Have fun.
About The Author
Created by Ameen Jabbar. Specializes in providing Pink Floyd music playing to musicians. For further information about guitar playing, learning famous riffs or Pink Floyd guitar techniques go to http://www.pinkfloyd-guitar.com or Email: pinkfloy@pinkfloyd-guitar.com.
Obtain an effective quality guitar
Obviously you have to own a guitar. The best ones are Fender because that is what David Gilmour uses (Pink Floyd guitarist). David Gilmour uses a Fender Stratocaster which are quite expensive but you can buy a Fender Strat which are cheaper, over £100 or $200.
Before you start to play, tune your guitar strings. Electronic tuners are inexpensive. Get one.
Get some guitar effects, Gilmour does why not you!
It is best to obtain some extra effects such as reverb, distortion or gain and maybe some chorus or delay. Your playing will sound more pleasing to the ear, fun and professional.
Get hold of Pink Floyd Guitar tablature
Find some Pink Floyd Guitar tabs or sheet music by searching online. To save you time, the best site is Pink Floyd Guitar because it consists of lessons and doesn't just give you the tab and leave you to it. The address is located in the Resource box below. Pick your Pink Floyd guitar tab for your chosen song and try and pick a simpler song to start off.
Get the feel for the music
Listen to the Pink Floyd song the one that you hope to play. Hear how it sounds and get the feel for it. Concentrate on different layers of music provided by the different instruments, however, you are playing the guitar parts.
Play your Pink Floyd guitar tab
Play slowly at first, gradually improving your speed. Listen to the solo slowly and learn to play along. Some media players allow you to digitally slow down the tempo of a song without changing the pitch. Start learning the tablature. Learn one measure at a time, one line at a time. You do not need to learn an entire song on your first try. Play for a minimum of 10-15 minutes per day with one day off each week.
Allow time to improve. Don't get discouraged if you play poorly on certain days. Everyone has bad days. Start simple and gradually move to complex.
Play against a backing track
Play your Pink Floyd guitar tab over a backing track. These are available from monthly guitar magazines. Also maybe online somewhere.
Record yourself playing the Pink Floyd guitar tab
You do this by downloading or purchasing music software or just use the recorder on you pc but you would need a mic, however, they are very cheap.
Why not play it in a band!!
Have fun.
About The Author
Created by Ameen Jabbar. Specializes in providing Pink Floyd music playing to musicians. For further information about guitar playing, learning famous riffs or Pink Floyd guitar techniques go to http://www.pinkfloyd-guitar.com or Email: pinkfloy@pinkfloyd-guitar.com.
