A Little Writing, a Little Music...

Eighteen months ago I was asked to lay some backup vocal tracks with some musicians I sang with way back. I hadn't expected to do more than that, even though that band is now actively gigging around town - and one of the songs I sang on was getting radio play in France.

But something was re-awakened, and I found myself drawn back to music in a way I hadn't expected. Because of my busy schedule, being a permanent band member and gigging regularly isn't an option right now ... but I became open to doing 'projects.'

This past week I've been listening (and re-listening) to my friend's new tracks in preparation of recording vocals next week. And I'm starting to think about building a singing 'portfolio' for the day when I DO want to re-join a band.

When I gave my web site a face lift, I added two MP3 files on the MUSIC page (you can listen now).

There's also a link to a video of one of our taiko drumming pieces. It's not professional by any means (and it's of rehearsal, not performance), but it's fun - I'm playing the big "odaiko" drum on back right.

Speaking of odaiko, I just started an 'intensive' class on how to play that particular instrument more effectively. My son and I are also taking a 4-week taiko class together (along with my regular practice).

You might ask when I have time to write around all this. And that would be a fair question. But remarkably, the novel is progressing and I'm waking with new ideas more often than usual. I suspect creativity is like any other exercise: the more you do it, the more it comes to you!

Taiko Hangover

It's not entirely unpleasant, except that I need to get a lot of things done this short week (I leave Thursday to work at the Sturgis motorcycle rally). But it's that slow, draggie feeling you get after a sustained frenetic pace, and I'm having trouble getting moving this morning.

But the recital was a resounding SUCCESS!

Taiko drumming student recital "Passing the Beat"

I will be performing in the Mu Daiko Student Recital (with my Taiko class) on Saturday, July 25 at 7pm and Sunday, July 26 at 2pm. You will see some incredible performances (as all levels will be performing). This is a high-energy event that is best seen LIVE (although I am going to try and get video of it), so if you're interested (or you just want to see what I've been doing every Saturday morning), here are the details! And now I'm off to happy hour with my classmates...