Bird School of Music - Newsletter

I need consistency. When I flip a switch, I want the lights to go on. I don't want dimmers, delays or defaults. Technology, because it so often defies explanation, invites frustration. The only thing consistent about technology is its reckless disregard for the average civilian's ability to master one idea before it lets loose with another.

It is the plight of the experienced to feel this way. I use the word experienced to signify adult -- a notion that to some is a desired state of being and to others about as welcome as a snowball in hell. So the adult seeks out routine and the child pursues the great unknown. It is what separates them.

Does this mean that a younger person will be hankering for and receptive to the latest advances in all things computer? Hell yes (note the second use of the word). And so, if youth is the promise of tomorrow...then change is good. It's beneficial to adapt.

Thankfully, in the old-fashioned toilet-overflowing fiasco that occurred at Bird last week, none of the state of the art equipment that had been freshly installed in the new space was damaged. The original wood floors buckled, a portion of the ceiling came down and the carpet absorbed most of the water. Manpower hastened instruments out of harm's way and Session I was halted after just one week of assembly.

It was back to business on Tuesday. To all of you who so eagerly returned after summer away and to those of you who came to Bird for the first time, thanks for your patience and understanding. It could not have been predicted that this kind of "damper" would be issued upon the excitement you brought with you to your first rehearsal.

Lane, Peter, Dave and I were thoroughly impressed with the way the musicians in their initial meeting were able to agree upon the material they will perform in the November 19 showcase. In just one rehearsal, everyone is underway with their 80's song. We culled from over 100 gems that achieved renown through the birth of MTV -- a piece of history only one of the Bird's bands could possibly remember and would maybe even like to forget. The 80's had it all: Rick Springfield, Fee Waybill and Nina Blackwood. What better way to follow up The Beatles?

We look forward to welcoming you back again, this week.


Engineering Recorded Sound: Hey, I want to learn how to use this stuff! What makes that sound? Can I make my own recordings? Can I make our band sound better? What's Reverb? How do I use it? Bird is offering a beginning audio course November 27-December 13. In this clinic you will learn how to: · Set up your amp for the sound you like · Set up microphones and learn how they work best · Use your amazing Garage Band program · Use Pro Tools Basics to record and edit your music Click here for details and to register online »

Mom bands, Dad bands, Mom and Dad bands, Dad and Mom bands. We know you are out there.

Here's your opportunity to dust off that guitar, drum, fiddle or piano you have at home and put those chops to use. Some of you may even have one of those red guitar keyboards that you pounded on while donning your spiked hair and thin piano note tie. Let's address this during your lunch hour from 12:00-1:30pm once a week. Who knows, maybe you can put on a show, play a fundraiser, approach an open mic in a local club? What we do know is you will have a great time and maybe even learn something that will help keep you happy and in style as you can see here.