Back to Basics: Are You a Successful Musician? and Pick Noise

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The recent financial meltdown is doing a number on all of us. Everyone’s financial outlook is worse than it was. We all know that life is not about money, and yet shortages of money create changes and can put a damper on plans and expectations. Pro musicians wonder if our careers are threatened or just maybe, we’re better-positioned because “people will always need music.” Probably some of both. Time will tell.
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Stepping Into a Group

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Jim from Colorado Springs here with an update on my progress. I was invited to play in a group called “The Heirlooms”. The name fits because we are all over 50 and in my case 62. It is really enjoyable. … Read More

Work Less on Instrumentals, More on Singing? The Year of the Melody

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Jim from Ohio writes: Inspired by my experience at your jam and banjo camps I have focused more on singing, increasing playing speed and clarity and learning better to improvise (“the year of the melody”). I am spending less time on instrumentals.… Read More

Find a Lead Singer; Backup Video; The Prewar Sound

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I just turned 61 at the end of February, and find myself reflecting on getting older and “taking stock”. I count myself lucky to have a career in music. The chance both to perform, in many places, with many fine musicians, and to teach people how to play music keeps my life interesting and fulfilling.… Read More