Monthly Archives: July 2013
What We Learn from Our Instruments
As musicians we should be more like the instruments we play. I recently watched Note by Note, the documentary about the Steinway Piano Company. It’s available on Netflix and I urge you to seek it out. The film takes you step by step through the whole process of creating these amazing pianos, works of art […]
Something Worth Paying For
I enjoy working on my car. I can do all the basic stuff—change the oil, replace belts and hoses, and even change the alternator. But when it comes time to do some real work, there is a level of expertise I don’t have. If I were to attempt some repair jobs, I would be very […]
Five Things I’ve Learned from Gordon Ramsay
I know I’m a little late to this party, but I’ve become a bit addicted to Kitchen Nightmares, the show in which famous chef Gordon Ramsay walks into failing restaurants and rips the entire staff a new one. I’ve always found a strong connection between the culinary and musical arts and what it means to […]
What Music Looks Like / The Star Spangled Banner
In honor of our great country and this special day, I figured I would compile a set of videos showing how our National Anthem has been played at various times… Here’s a rendition of our National Anthem by one talented and brave 4-year-old girl In honor of my Grandfather, who was an Air Force man. […]
Five Truths of Being a Musician #5
For the last month we’ve been discussing the truths of the musical life. They are … • Most people simply will not “get it.” • They don’t want to hear that new piece you’re working on. • Sometimes you will (and should) turn down a gig. • You may realize this job is not for […]
What Others Say / Arnold Jacobs
Don’t encourage mediocrity. Play at your best and don’t be second class in the head. —Arnold Jacobs, principal tubist for the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, 1944–1988 Tweet: What Others Say / Arnold Jacobs
Long Tones: The Pursuit of a Life in Music 