Sunday, December 25, 2005

Journal Christmas Party, Burgermaster, Shelton, Thursday December 22

I was early for this one to get set up and warmed up, because it started at 7:00 a.m. I have worked for the Shelton-Mason County Journal for over 12 years now, and I truly am grateful that Henry hired me all those years ago, God rest his soul. I'm sure most companies have parties and traditions similar to ours, but the Journal is a family business, and they treat us like family. So I played a few songs as people came in to the banquet room at Burgermaster, then put my cello on its stand and enjoyed Christmas breakfast with my co-workers, and played a few more songs as they left after exchanging gifts and having a good time together.

Later, by request, I played a few songs in the lobby of the Journal as people came in to buy the issue with the Children's Christmas drawings. Why? Just because I wanted to. Thank you Charlie, Julie, Stephen, Fern, Harvey, Diane, Roger, Sean, Rebecca, Mary, Steve, Jeff, Koleen, Colleen, Donna, Kathy, Nick, Kelly, Clint, Margot, Jan, and everyone else at the paper--just for being who you are, and doing what you do.

'07 Update: This year was the same as the past couple of years, except I Will Adams from the Journal's composing department joined me on guitar. As a retired professional performer and guitar teacher, Will is really fun to work with. The Journal has just happened to be the place of employment for a number of musicians over the years, including Stephen (keys, vocals), Roger (drums, vox., gtr., deceased), Harvey (saxophone), Jan (violin), and Charlie (record players...) Happy Holidays everybody!

Cameo Boutique, Union WA, Sunday December 18

I would like to thank Pam for hiring me to play at her wonderful shop, Cameo Boutique, for a couple of hours last Sunday. The small stage there is perfect for an acoustic soloist, and the surroundings are beautiful. Her open house and sale, including my performance, were well-promoted, and her shop was quite busy during the early hours of the afternoon, just before I arrived. Though people continued to stop in between 4:00 and 6:00 as I played, the traffic had slowed considerably for several reasons including an "ice storm" in the weather forcast and other events nearby including a large private party across the street from Noon-9:00, and an event at Hunter Farms down the street, starting at 5:30 pm. Even so, I had a chance to spend some time with Cameo's employees, and we enjoyed each other's company and some wonderful gourmet offerings, including pretzels with several mustard dipping sauces (I liked the dill best). She also had homemade divinity and brownies, with hot spiced cider to wash it all down. We decided that if we do this again (which I hope we do), it should start earlier, maybe from 1:00 to 3:00.

Thank you again, Pam, Stella and everyone. I really did have a good time and I hope you did too.

Wedding of JoAnna McComb & Jonathan Williams, Sat. Dec. 17, Shelton Baptist Church

I played selections from my Christmas program, with an emphasis on sacred music and carols, as people were ushered in to the wedding. A sound guy put a microphone on me, so the wedding guests could hear me everywhere. If I do say so myself, I played quite well on this day. Every condition seemed perfect, relaxed, and well-prepared. Though I did not have time to stay for the wedding itself, I would like to thank Bill, Leslie and JoAnna McComb, and all who came by to compliment my playing.

Friends of the Hoodsport Library, December 13

I would like to thank the Hoodsport Friends of the Timberland Library, and especially Joan Lines, for having me play my Christmas cello program for their group. Using the flexibility of hours I enjoy with my day job as an ad guy at the Shelton-Mason County Journal, an hour on a Tuesday afternoon proved to be workable, though I didn't allow enough travel time to the Hoodsport Library, and nearly made myself late, but made it just in time.

I played several songs from my Christmas program, and with some encouragement I played one of the Nutcracker pieces I had recently added. It is a challenging number, and though I didn't play it perfectly, the group really seemed to enjoy this, and a couple of other works in progress I played. I felt comfortable playing for the Friends, and answered a number of questions about myself, my cello, and my compositions. At the request of the group, I premiered my newest piece, "Forgotten Heart," which was well-received. When the program ended, I felt great, and wished I could have stayed longer.

As everyone filed out after the program, we talked more as I put my cello away, and took some pictures. I loaded up a plate of cookies and headed back to Shelton with plenty of afternoon to go, and a happy feeling in my gut that I don't think had anything to do with the cookies--just the kindness of this wonderful group. Thank you everyone.

Monday, December 12, 2005

Alpine Way Open House, Sun. Dec. 11

I played at the SCU for about 75 residents, staff and families while they enjoyed lunch. The group were an outstanding, appreciative audience. After I finished up my performance at about 12:50 or so, I went through the buffet for the salmon lunch, which was outstanding (Alpine Way has a gourmet chef and terrific kitchen staff). The nice folks I spoke with at the table in the back part of the room, whom I was not able to even see while I played, told me they had been able to hear me quite clearly, and really enjoyed the music. Having considered and rejected the idea of bringing my amplifier, I was glad to hear that one "unplugged" cello playing Christmas music could be heard so well, even that far back from where I had sat. Thank you everyone.

Saturday, December 03, 2005

Old Town Hobby First Friday '05

Last night, I performed my Christmas program at Old Town Hobby. Mostly, I stuck with the program listed in the previous entry, though I have made arrangements for myself for Leroy Anderson's "Sleigh Ride," versions of "The Little Drummer Boy," and "Feliz Navidad," "Dance of the Sugar-Plum Fairy," and I also worked up "Rudolf the Red-Nosed Reindeer" completely by ear Thursday night, and put it to paper for Friday. By request, I also played Cole Porter's "Too Darn Hot" and an old favorite march, "The American Patrol." Thank you Richard, Judy and Alexander for having me come and play.

Penny and I will be buying all of our holiday gifts from Old Town Hobby this year. For anybody reading this, I highly recommend Old Town Hobby, it's a wonderful shop in downtown Shelton and has a bit of something for everyone on our list. Richard can do special orders, and thoughtfully stocks his shop with unique items you just won't find at the big box stores. He has lots of puzzles, games, model kits, Corgi collectible diecast, D&D books, lots of art supplies, Woodland Scenics miniatures terrain, dice, rockets and even the newest Magic: The Gathering cards. And did I mention the personal service is the best you will find anywhere? It is.

This morning, my daughter (she's 4) was watching Arthur on PBS, and who--but my hero of cello heros--should appear, but the one and only Yo Yo Ma! It was his voice, and certainly his cello playing that I heard, and the credits showed that yes, Yo Yo Ma played himself, and guest starred with a famous saxophonist (sorry, I forgot the sax player's name). The cartoon version of Yo Yo Ma showed him with the ears of a rabbit, which I think is appropriate because he certainly must listen well. He had glasses, and the cartoon face actually looked a fair amount like him. In the story, there was a disagreement about whether classical or jazz music was superior. As he has done before, Yo Yo Ma demonstrated the point that different styles of music are like different kinds of foods: a variety is best. And any type of music can be played on any instrument. I could not agree more, that's exactly what I do! Yo Yo Ma, you are my hero!
I looked back at my daughter and smiled. She slept through the whole thing.

Sunday, October 30, 2005

Christmas Program

Christmas Program
This year, I have worked up my own set of arrangements for a new set of holiday music for my cello solo performances, and I am drawing on a number of influences. When I was growing up, I sang in a church choir almost every Sunday. Also, during the holidays we watched a lot of great old movies with Bing Crosby and Gene Autry. I have had the good fortune to see Mr. Mel Torme in concert. And I have played cello and bass in symphonies, pops orchestras, quartets and rock and roll bands as well as my solo work. Although some of these songs may eventually come out so that other songs or requests can be included, here is the current list:

March from the Nutcracker Suite     Peter Ilich Tschaikowsky
Happy Holiday               Irving Berlin 1941
O Come, Little Children          Danish Carol
Greensleeves (What Child Is This)     English, before 1642
Frosty the Snow Man               Steve Nelson & Jack Rollins, 1950
We Three Kings of Orient Are     John H. Hopkins; traditional
Up On the House-Top               Traditional
Jolly Old Saint Nicholas          Traditional
O Little Town Of Bethlehem          Lewis Henry Redner, 1831-1908
Bring a Torch Jeannette, Isabella     French Carol, 17th Century
The First Nowell               Traditional English Carol
It Came Upon a Midnight Clear     Richard Storrs Willis, 1819-1900
Angels We Have Heard On High     French Carol
Santa Claus Is Coming To Town     J. Fred Coots, 1934
Let It Snow! Let It Snow! Let It Snow!     Jule Styne 1945
I Saw Three Ships               Traditional
Jingle-Bell Rock               Joe Beal & Jim Boothe, 1957
Angels from the Realms of Glory     Henry Smart, 1813-79
Hark! The Herald Angels Sing     Felix Mendelsson-Bartholdy 1809-47
Silver Bells                    Livingston & Evans
Adeste Fideles (O Come, All Ye Faithful)     Cantus Diversi, 1751
I’ll Be Home for Christmas          Kim Gannon, Walter Kent & Buck Ram, 1943
(There’s No Place Like) Home for the Holidays     Al Stillman & Robert Allen
Here Comes Santa Claus           Gene Autry & Oakley Haldeman, 1947
Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas     Hugh Martin & Ralph Blane, 1944
The Chipmunk Song (Christmas, Don’t Be Late)     Ross Bagdasarian 1958
Blue Christmas               Billy Hayes & Jay Johnson, 1948
Hava Nagila                    Moshe Nathanson & Abraham Z. Idelsohn
The Christmas Song (Chestnuts Roasting On An Open Fire) Mel Torme & Robert Wells, 1946
White Christmas               Irving Berlin, 1940
O Holy Night                    Adolphe Adam
O Christmas Tree (O Tannenbaum)     Traditional
Deck the Halls                    Welsh Traditional
Away In a Manger               19th Cent. American
Do You Hear What I Hear?          Noel Regney & Gloria Shayne
Joy to the World               George Friedrich Handel
Silent Night                    Franz Xaver Gruber
Jingle Bells                    Pierpont
We Wish You a Merry Christmas     Traditional
I Saw Mommy Kissing Santa Claus     Tommie Connor, 1952
There Is No Christmas Like A Home Christmas     C. Sigman & M. J. Addy, 1950
Here We Come A-Wassailing          Old English
Good King Wenceslas               Traditional
The Coventry Carol               Traditional
God Rest You, Merry Gentlemen     Traditional
The Twelve Days of Christmas     Traditional
Winter Wonderland               Felix Bernard & Dick Smith
O Come, O Come Emmanuel          Thomas Helmore
Waltz of the Flowers               Peter Ilich Tschaikowsky
Christmas in Killarney          J. Redmond, J. Cavanaugh & F. Weldon, 1950
All I Want For Christmas Is My Two Front Teeth     Don Gardner, 1946
Mister Santa (Version of Mr. Sandman)     Pat Ballard, 1954


I have recently added Dance of the Sugar-Plum Fairy, Sleigh Ride, The Little Drummer Boy, Feliz Navadad, and Rudolf the Red-Nosed Reindeer to this program. I am in the process of locating "It's the Most Wonderful Time Of The Year" so I can make a cello solo arrangement of that for myself also. I am constantly on the lookout for more music to work up, both for the holidays, and for the rest of the year.
Estimated live play time: approx. 2 hours total (est).









     

Saturday, September 10, 2005

Renee & Jason Wedding at Timberlakes

I played unaccompanied acoustic cello solos for a small wedding earlier today, out past Agate off Highway 3 just a bit north of Shelton. Penny got some good directions off of the internet and I didn't have much trouble finding it. The setting at Timberlakes was really beautiful: an outdoor gazebo on a small island surrounded by a small lake complete with water lilies and reflected trees. Thank you Jon!
It rained on and off all day, so my program was a bit shorter than it would normally be so people could dodge the weather, but it didn't rain a drop during the ceremony, which was absolutely beautiful. Another thing that I thought was cool were the matching Hawaiian shirts and dress slacks the groom and groomsmen wore. The bridesmaids looked great, and the bride looked absolutely breathtaking in her dress.
As the wedding party were taking their seats, I played:
Don't Be Cruel (To A Heart That's True) (excerpt) Otis Blackwell & Elvis Presley, 1956
Underneath It All (David A Stewart & Gwen Stefani 2001)
When I'm Sixty-Four (Beatles)
Take My Breath Away (Love Theme from "Top Gun,") (Giorgio Moroder & Tom Whitlock 1986)
---I had to cut one or more of the following for time, but they were in the original program: Till There Was You (Meredith Willson 1950), And I Love Her (Beatles), Unforgettable (Irving Gordon 1951), Fly Me To The Moon (Bart Howard 1954), I Will Remember You (Sarah McLachlan, Seamus Egan & Dave Merenda 1995), I'll Have to Say I Love You In A Song (Jim Croce 1973), I Will (Beatles 1968), Landslide (Stevie Nicks 1975)---
When everyone appeared to be present and seated, I played classical selections from G.F. Handel's Water Music, and was ready with plenty of Bach Cello Suites and other classical music, depending on how things were going; many times, a critical member of a wedding party gets delayed in one way or another. Things went very smoothly today. Everyone was in their places and bridesmaids were well on their way; I saw the bride in the distance and began the Bridal Chorus. With the long distance from across the bridge, it actually took two stanzas of the Wagner, which I thought was great because indoors, I play about a measure of it before the bride is standing up front and everybody's patiently waiting for that song to end. Playing weddings, I've seen quite a few brides and I have to tell you, Renee looked like a celebrity or a model, and her dress seemed to be perfect as she came up the eisle and stood up front. The young pastor included Jason's new son in the service, joining the whole family together at once in God's love. It was truly beautiful.
Anyway, after the ceremony, which was shorter yet sweeter and more complete than most, I played Mendelssohn's Wedding March, then J. Clarke's Trumpet Voluntary. By the time I finished the Trumpet Voluntary, the last of the group was already across the arc of the white-railed bridge, almost out of view, so I cut I Married An Angel (Richard Rogers & Lorenz Hart, 1938).
It was really a great service, and I enjoyed playing. Thank you Renee & Jason, Jon and everyone!
--Dave
cellodad@juno.com

Sunday, September 04, 2005

Union Bay Cafe, September 4

Since Candy Noll bought the Union Bay Cafe from Kathy Brown, a lot of improvements have been made. I would like to thank her, as well as Jesse and Sara for having me out there. You won't find a better deal on better fish and chips anywhere on the canal that I know of. Next time you get a chance, give this place a try. Jesse is an accomplished musician himself, working on his second CD, and he arranges the entertainment (though Candy has the final say).
Today I played a special Sunday lunch performance that was originally going to be outside, but everyone was inside when I started, and thunderstorms had been in the weather report so I set up on the stage and Jesse did the sound. My program of unaccompanied cello solos included the following songs:
I've Got You Under My Skin (Cole Porter 1936)
Can You Feel The Love Tonight (From The Lion King) (Elton John 1994)
Unwell (Rob Thomas 2002)
Underneath It All (David A. Stewart and Gwen Stefani of No Doubt, 2001)
When I'm Sixty-Four (The Beatles)
Take My Breath Away (Love theme from "Top Gun") (Giorgio Moroder, Tom Whitlock 1986)
Sittin' On The Dock Of The Bay (Steve Cropper & Otis Redding 1968)
The Lady In Red (Chris DeBurgh 1986)
Fly Me to The Moon (In Other Words) (Bart Howard 1954)
I Will Remember You (Sarah McLachlan, Seamus Egan & Dave Merenda 1995)
Lullaby (Shawn Mullins 1998)
From A Distance (Julie Gold 1986)
Forrest Gump - Main Title (Feather Theme) (Alan Silvestri 1994)
Fields Of Gold (Sting 1993)
Colors of the Wind (from Walt Disney's Pocohontas) (Alan Menken 1995)
Penny Lane (the Beatles) (John Lennon & Paul McCartney 1967)
Landslide (Stevie Nicks 1975)
The Game Of Love (Rick Nowels & Gregg Alexander 2002)
Love Is Here To Stay (George & Ira Gershwin 1938)
Tie A Yellow Ribbon Round The Ole Oak Tree (Irwin Levine & L. Russell Brown 1972)
I Don't Want To Set The World On Fire (Ink Spots: Benjamin, Seiler, Marcus, Durham 1941)
Just The Way You Are (Billy Joel 1978)
You're The Inspiration (Peter Cetera & David Foster 1984)
A Day In The Life (John Lennon & Paul McCartney 1967)
Till There Was You (From "The Music Man") (Meredith Willson 1950)
What A Wonderful World (george David Weiss & Bob Thiele 1967)
Don't Know Why (Jesse Harris 2002)
You'll Be In My Heart (From Walt Disney's Tarzan) (Phil Collins 1999)
Across the Universe (John Lennon & Paul McCartney 1968)
Spanish Eyes (Bert Kaempfert 1965)
In My Life (John Lennon & Paul McCartney 1966)
Time In A Bottle (Jim Croce 1971)
Always On My Mind (Wayne Thompson, Mark James & Johnny Christopher 1971)
Too Darn Hot (Cole Porter 1949)
Star Dust (Hoagy Carmichael & Mitchell Parish 1928)
Ob-La-Di, Ob-La-Da (John Lennon & Paul McCartney 1968)
The Look Of Love (Burt Bacharach & Hal David 1967)
If I Fell (John Lennon & Paul McCartney 1964)
I Love Paris (Cole Porter)
Georgia On My Mind (Hoagy Carmichael & Stuart Gorrell 1930)
It Might As Well Be Spring (From State Fair) (Richard Rogers & Oscar Hammerstein II 1945)
Take The 'A' Train (Billy Strayhorn 1941)
All My Loving (John Lennon & Paul McCartney 1963)
Save The Best For Last (Phil Galdston, Jon Lind & Wendy Waldman 1989)
Puttin' On The Ritz (Irving Berlin 1928)
I'll Have To Say I Love You In A Song (Jim Croce 1973)

Though it was a short performance, I didn't take any breaks so I got a lot of songs in. Also, remember that most Beatles songs are only a couple minutes long. The audience was not huge, but the cafe was pretty full at the peak of the lunch hour. They were appreciative (applause is a dead giveaway of that) and unusually quiet for a restaurant and lounge at lunchtime -- I think a lot of people were really listening to me play.

Lately I've been noticing people out of the corner of my eye tapping their feet as I play, or hearing people gently singing with some of the familiar melodies; I can feel the very moments when I have an audience in the palm of my hand. I can't really explain it, because I have been playing for a long time, but I really live for those little moments. At times in the past, they made me nervous because I would over-think what I was playing or lose my place in the music, but that happens only rarely now. Today had a lot of great little moments, and I feel like I kept my cool through nearly all of them. I've probably mentioned it before, but playing at restaurants is great for me, because I feel like I am adding something special to people's experience. Here they are, actually getting out of the house and meeting other people, and I get to be part of their reward for doing that.

Loners On Wheels September 1

I had a great time playing for this RV group at the Mason County Fairgrounds. Though gas prices were a concern, I played to a full house. I would like to thank Audrey for hiring me to play to this highly appreciative audience. The large indoor stage was the exact same one I performed on at the Mason County Fair, so I was very comfortable, and everyone was very friendly and enjoyed my unaccompanied cello solos greatly. My program included the following songs:
Wonderful Tonight (Eric Clapton 1977)
Get Happy ( Ted Koehler, Harold Arlen 1929)
Scarborough Fair/Canticle (Paul Simon 1966)
Ain't Misbehavin' (Thomas "Fats" Waller & Harry Brooks, Andy Razaf 1929)
A Hazy Shade of Winter (Paul Simon 1966)
It Don't Mean A Thing (If It Ain't Got That Swing) (Duke Ellington, Irving Mills 1932)
Bridge Over Troubled Water (Paul Simon 1969)
Unforgettable (Irving Gordon 1951)
Dance In F (David Vincent Pierik 2005)
Volare (Nel blue, Dipinto Di Blu) (Domenico Modugnno 1958)
Human (James Harris III & Terry Lewis 1986)
Just One Of Those Things (From "Jubilee") (Cole Porter 1935)
Stand By Me (Ben E. King, Mike Stoller & Jerry Leiber 1961)
The Way We Were (Alan & Marily Bergman, Marvin Hamlisch 1973)
Saving All My Love for You (Gerry Goffin & Michael Masser 1978)
Spinning Wheel (David Clayton-Thomas of Blood, Sweat & Tears, 1967)
By The Light of the Silvery Moon (Ed Madden & Gus Edwards, 1909)
Whatever Will Be, Will Be (Que Sera, Sera) (Jay Livingston & Ray Evans 1955)
Too-ra-loo-ra-loo-ral--That's An Irish Lullaby (J.R. Shannon 1913)
Five Foot Two, Eyes Of Blue (Has Anybody Seen My Girl) (Sam M. Lewis, Joe Young 1925)
True Colors (Billy Steinberg & Tom Kelly 1986)
Don't Get Around Much Anymore (Bob Russell & Duke Ellington, 1942)
Allenabde (2nd movement from the 1st of 6 Suites for Cello) (Bach)
Minuet No. 2 (Bach)
Sonata in G (David Vincent Pierik 2005)

Having such a receptive audience made this performance especially enjoyable for me, and I really look forward to more like this one.

Sunday, August 07, 2005

Recent Cello-related Purchases

I have been re-investing in my cello recently with a couple of accessories. First, my wife helped me find a truly professional music stand, which I love. It's the type I've seen used on MTV; black with a pattern of circular holes. It's really solid and stable, but it does fold up. It has a thick edge, so it can hold my heavy binder of music without swaying at all. Also, I picked up a solid metal folding cello stand, so that I can keep my cello out for easier access both at performances and for practicing. I picked it up from www.nashvilleviolins.com a neat shop run by Dave Wascher, an old college friend of mine. Also, I have been buying up a lot of new music and making even more arrangements. We bought my daughter a 1/4 sized cello which is due to arrive soon, and also a 1/2 sized one (and a soft case) to a student of mine until she outgrows it (at which time it should fit my daughter).
Along with my recently purchased Jargar strings (see earlier entry) I have also picked up new polish, a polishing cloth, and a soundpost setter. I have never been afraid to spend money on my instrument. Even though playing music has been an element of my life since I was four years old, and cello since I was 10, I have never taken anything for granted. Even though my parents spent a lot of money (no, they weren't rich) for me to have my own cello and private teachers, I also spent my own money. My first cello was a Kay, my second a Roth, and my current cello is a Stradivarius copy. I sold the Roth for $1,050 when I started college in 1984 order to buy something that could carry me into adulthood. With the help of Larry Zgonc, I found an old broken cello in the classified ads of The Oregonian for $300. The neck and body were completely separated, and it had deep cracks in the face. I took a gamble, and had it repaired and rebuilt at the David Kerr violin shop. It took them a long time, and cost me $700 (including an old hard case). But I was $50 ahead, and I could tell right away that I was much happier with the sound. Appraisers have told me that my cello was probably built in New York City in the 1920s by Czech immigrant luthiers (instrument makers). I also bought the best bow I could afford about this time, with $450 I had earned at my paper route and working in the pressroom at the Gresham Outlook. Why so much on the bow? Because cheap bows warp easily and perform poorly compared to an artisan, hardwood bow such as mine, which is German-made and is as straight and trustworthy today as it was the day I bought it.

Mason County Fair

I played a total of six performances at the Mason County Fair, July 29, 30 and 31 on the Olympic (concession) indoor stage. I stuck with contemporary music mostly, only playing a couple of classical pieces and a couple of my own compositions; most of my arrangements were of pieces written between 1920 and 2003. Each of my sets was about an hour, with two each day Friday (I used a vacation day from my day job), Saturday and Sunday. The fair was fun, and I enjoyed the ambience, food and other acts such as the Elvis impersonator, JP Patches the clown, the Smilin' Scandinavians, Null, Strangers With Candy and others. The attendance was not huge, but it was okay, so my audience varied in size but I don't think I played for more than 75 people at any given point in time. It was so hot I wore short sleeved dress shirts instead of my tuxedo shirt, and I didn't wear a tie. The sound guy did a great job, so I was able to clearly announce my songs, and everyone could hear me. At one point as I played, one of their amps blew out, and they had it replaced with backup equipment in about 15 minutes. I also like to thank Gretchen for having me play; I really had a good time, and people tell me they enjoyed hearing me perform.

Saturday, July 23, 2005

Four Nights at the Alderbrook Resort & Spa

On Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday, July 12, 13, 15 and 16, I played at the Alderbrook Resort and Spa again (see entry below). Once again, I was well received, both with the P.A. the first three nights and acoustic/unplugged on Saturday. My cello projects sound well, and the lounge there has bright acoustics. Each of the nights was busier than the night before. As always, the food was outstanding, as was the view and the service. The salmon dishes have always been my favorites, but I had the Ahi tuna dinner on two of the nights, it was so good. I even brought a dessert home each night--my favorite was the chocolate/peanut butter one. My music selection and style fit right in to the setting, and I was happy to add another positive to the already beautiful experience for everyone. The effect of playing multiple nights in the same place was wonderful, because I became very comfortable with the surroundings. Again, thank you to Sam and everyone at the Alderbrook for having me out there, I look forward to next time.
Speaking of "next time," I will be performing at the Mason County Fair & NPRA Rodeo in the Olympic Hall on the concession stage all three nights, Friday, Saturday and Sunday, July 29, 30 and 31.

Thursday, June 23, 2005

Alderbrook Resort & Spa, Tuesday June 21, 6-9pm

After work, I changed, packed up and headed right up from Shelton to Union on McReavy road, just over a 10 minute drive. The stage area is at floor level, with full windows viewing Alderbrook Resort & Spa's dock and Hood Canal. Alderbrook's staff impressed me early with service that was always a step ahead. I would like to thank Sam Askew, who saw to it that everyone could hear me through the P.A. system, and that the right stage lights were on, Jesse for keeping me supplied in sodas, salad and salmon, and Elvis for being there. Also, I would like to thank Diane DeValck for her program suggestions, many of which were already in my music and were received well. Though the audience was not large, several people came up to me to let me know they enjoyed my playing very much. For my next dates at Alderbrook, I am adding a lot of new material, and I also plan to scramble my song order a bit on each of the days: July 12, 13, 15 and 16--Monday Tuesday, Friday and Saturday from 6-9pm. I'm looking forward to sampling Alderbrook's coffees that week. My new tuxedo shirt arrived yesterday (Wednesday 6/20) and I have to say it's a lot nicer than the old one; it's somehow inspiring to me, and I feel like I'm at the beginning of something great. On second thought, maybe it's not the shirt. Maybe it's the great honor of playing at a venue of the caliper of the Alderbrook Resort & Spa.

Taylor Station, Father's Day (6/19/05) 10am-1pm

I got up early Sunday and put on my tuxedo, with my new yellow bow tie, packed my cello, music and stand into the old Volvo and headed to Taylor Towne. For the first hour, I played solos in the dining area, where most of the people were enjoying breakfast. I was happy to add a few familiar songs to their experience. From 11am-1pm I performed in Taylor Station's outdoor garden/patio area, which rivals any setting anywhere for beauty with natural rock, plenty of well-chosen plants, a small bridge and a nice koi pond. It being Father's Day, I was happy that a couple of kids showed interest, and I played You'll Be In My Heart, the ever-popular Phil Collins tune from Tarzan. I had added a half a dozen or more songs to my program since my previous public appearance, including Tie A Yellow Ribbon Round the Old Oak Tree and a few others. The intimate audience was very appreciative, and I look forward to my next solo dates there: July 10 & 24 and August 7 & 21, each from 10am-1pm in the garden/patio area.

Monday, June 13, 2005

At the Robin Hood in Union WA on Mother's day Posted by Hello

Thursday, May 26, 2005

Mary M. Knight Teacher Appreciation Banquet 5/26/05

I used one of my saved holidays from my day job as an ad guy at the local paper for today's gig, since it was from about 3:45 to almost 5 pm, and a 40 minute drive from Shelton. The drive was pleasant, the school was wonderful and the staff were outstanding. Every detail of the food and decor were top class, and I really enjoyed the restaurant-grade chocolate cake with raspberry filling. The teachers really enjoyed hearing me play as they took in the banquet; one teacher told me that it was so nice and relaxing that hearing me every day would be just great if that were possible. After the performance, I was given three pieces of cake to bring home for my wife, my daughter and myself. I would like to thank Terri Frost, Linda Black and the entire staff of Mary M. Knight for hiring me to perform cello solos, it was a wonderful experience.

I performed selections of classical from Bach, Mozart, etc. and contemporary from Duke Ellington and the Beatles to Phil Collins and Elton John. The latter two compositions were selections from "Tarzan" and "The Lion King" that were particularly well-suited for the occasion.

What a great idea to hold this banquet event to show some recognition and appreciation to the hard working teachers and staff. Other schools and organizations could learn a valuable lesson from the classy people at Mary M. Knight High School, even if they already do something like this.

Saturday, May 21, 2005

Aleiha (Tobey) & Michael Dennis Wedding, May 14, 2005

The little Allyn Historic Chapel was the perfect setting for an intimate wedding, and I was delighted with how wonderfully my Bach cello solos filled the chapel with beautiful music from my corner up front as everyone came in and sat down, starting at about 12:30. Pastor Terry Oliver of the New Community Church of Union did an excellent job and I felt the ceremony was inspirational without being too long. The photographer, Amber Williamson of Sunlight Photography, took lots of pictures from every possible angle and I am sure they are going to be absolutely beautiful. It was a simple, short ceremony led by the pastor from the Community Church of Union. After the beautiful young bride and handsome groom kissed, I played them out with the ever-present Wedding March, then the Trumpet Voluntary as everyone headed out to the reception.

For the reception at the Victor Community Hall, I played my non-classical program from the small, well-lit stage. A girl about my daughter's age who I think was a niece of the bride danced on the stage as I played everything from The Beatles to Phil Collins' music from Tarzan, and the dancing just delighted me, because my daughter does the same thing. It did come as a pleasant surprise to me to see a few of people I know at the reception, and we had a nice visit when I took my break and enjoyed some of the wonderful food (I especially liked the chips and fresh guacamole). Gilbert and Howard and Angela told me they had been playing "name that tune" as they listened to my cello solos. A wonderful lady told me she enjoyed my version of Five Foot Two, Eyes of Blue and had not expected to hear music from that long ago. I took another short break for the wedding toast, then played until about 4 pm.

Robin Hood Gig, Mother's Day '05

The Robin Hood Restaurant is a wonderful place in Union, Washington on Hood Canal. Not only did I enjoy performing there, I was impressed by the friendly staff, the beauty of the restaurant and its setting, and of course, the excellent food. For Mother's Day, I played from 11am-2pm, with the first half of the time in the restaurant and the rest in the pub area, so that I could be where the people were for their breakfast and lunch buffets. I alternated my program between classical and contemporary throughout, and everyone enjoyed it very much. I would like to thank Kerry for having me perform, and Chet London for his wonderful compliments on my unaccompanied solo cello performance. You may be familiar with Chet London's Special Delivery jazz, featuring Lucy Mitchell on vocal and keyboards, with Mr. London on trumpet. I have heard him perform, and also met with him and spoken with him a few times. He has been a professional musician for a long time, and one of the nicest guys you could ever meet. I certainly look forward to playing at the Robin Hood again soon.

Saturday, May 07, 2005

50's Diner Performance

Last night I had the honor of being the first live act to play at the 50's Diner and Smokehouse, which has excellent food and service, yet reasonable prices and an unpretentious atmosphere that is clean, bright and new, with lots of neon and 1950's decor. Everyone loved hearing me play my non-classical set, which is currently about one and a half hours long. When a Beatles song is only about two minutes, it takes a lot of music to fill that amount of time, but I had enough advance notice to prepare, and I did a lot of searching and arranging, and I also bought a bunch of sheet music. To be honest, my contemporary set of cello solos probably has more music from the 1960's than any other period, though it ranges from the 1920's to 2003. I now have my own cello arrangements of classic rock/jazz ballads such as The Girl From Ipanema and Mona Lisa, as well as the obvious choices like Blue Suede Shoes and Peggy Sue. There was a capacity croud at the restaurant (probably about 50 in the room) when I started, and I was told later that a couple of the larger reservations (for something like 14 and 11) had come specifically to hear me play. Applause came for A Day In The Life (Beatles), I'll Have to Say I Love You In A Song (Jim Croce) and Puttin' On The Ritz (Irving Berlin). The applause always makes me smile, and though I have some regret that I didn't have the courage to start performing as a cello soloist earlier in my life, everything feels like it is as it should be. Next time I play at the 50's Diner, I'm going to bring a camera, and begin a collection of "gig shots."

Tomorrow (Sunday May 8) I am playing at the Robin Hood Restaurant for Mother's Day brunch 11-2. For that one, I'm going back to my old format of classical (Bach, etc.) mixed right in with contemporary songs. Depending on how I feel, I will take either one or two breaks.

Today I am going to spend some time putting some original songs I wrote for vocal in college into cello arrangements for myself. Next Saturday, I'm playing for a wedding in Allyn.

Friday, April 15, 2005

Stand Light

For my 39th birthday, my mom picked up a couple of cool things for my avocation as a cello soloist. The Mighty Bright Sight Reader is a battery operated music stand light (with AC adaptor input also). It's small, but bright enough to really do the job well, with a pivoting arm to aim the light where needed most. Also, she picked up some new sheet music, Vivaldi's "6 Sonaten" for Cello solo with basso continuo. The music even includes CDs of just the accomp. parts. Working it all up to speed should keep me busy for quite a while, and I look forward to playing it. Thank you again, mom!

Saturday, February 26, 2005

Rates

Hourly performance rate: $100 per hour (1 hour minimum)

Instruction: $12.50 per half-hour (half-hour minimum; :45 minute lesson $17.50, 1 hour $25)

Subject to availability; 1 week notice requested.

Local and/or repeat business discounts may be available, e-mail cellodad@juno.com for details.

New strings

P. bought me a new set of Jargar medium strings for Valentines. My old set sounded okay, but except for the "A" string, had all been on there for about 20 years or so. New strings really do sound great. A set retails for $135 on average, but Jargar mediums (with the blue windings) are well worth it. Thank you P., I love you!

Thursday, February 17, 2005

Xinh's Valentine's Day Gig

After a week of rehearsing three hours of music a day, Monday came. I went to work as normal (I am not quitting my day job) then put on my tuxedo with my red bow tie (I also have a black one and a blue one), grabbed my cello, music stand and music folder, walked over and set up. I started playing at 4:57 by my watch. I played for about an hour, took a five minute break, played for another hour and took a half-hour dinner break. Xinh's salmon is absolutely the best I've ever eaten; unlike anything I have ever eaten, it actually caused me to cry it was so good. I played for another hour, took five, and then played until about 9:22, when most of the couples had finished.

All of the feedback coming back to me about my Valentine's program is very positive, everyone enjoyed my playing. I could get used to this. Xinh and her staff seem to be as pleased with my performance as I was with her salmon, and that's saying a lot. Personally, I thought I sounded pretty good that night. Not perfect mind you--I made my share of mistakes. But I just kept on going. I am my own worst critic, and I know the areas that I need to work on.

Saturday, January 29, 2005

Alpine Way Gig, Thursday January 27, 2005

On Thursdays I take a long lunch and work late, so that P. can go to her knitting group while I watch B. That has been the routine for a very long time. It just so happened that I had the good fortune to be asked to play at Alpine Way from 2-3 pm last Thursday. Honestly, I couldn't be much happier with how everything worked out. I came home, had lunch, changed into my tuxedo (P. chose the red bow tie), grabbed my cello, music and stand and drove the 2-3 miles across town to the gig, where my one request was a chair with no arms. I began playing about 1:58 in the carpeted dining room, which has very live acoustics. At first, just a few residents were there to listen, but as I kept playing, more and more filed in. Some of them hummed along to tunes that were familiar to them, and out of the corner of my eye I saw a couple of them leaning close with their ears to listen. Everyone applauded after every song (even every movement, in the case of the Bach). And I smiled each time they did. My head felt like it was 5' around--what a great, appreciative audience.
My program included It Might As Well Be Spring (Rogers/Hammerstein) , Java (Freddy Friday, Allen Tousaint, Alvin Tyler), Nina (G. B. Pergolese), Blue Skies (from "Betsy," by Irving Berlin), Sonata for Cello (by R. Romberg), Spanish Eyes (Bert Kaempfert), La Cinquantaine (Air in the olden Style, by G. Marie), Five Foot Two, Eyes of Blue (Has anybody seen my girl? by Ray Henderson), Georgia On My Mind (Stuart Gorrell, Hoagy Carmichael), I've Got The World On A String (Ted Koehler, Harold Arlen), Suite No. 1 (six movements, Johann Sebastian Bach), I've Got You Under My Skin (Cole Porter), Canon in D (Johann Pachelbel), Too Darn Hot (Cole Porter. Though I can't remember whether I cut this one out for time or not), Star Dust (Mitchell Parish, Hoagy Carmichael. What a great song), Moon River (My arrangement, from Johnny Mercer and Henry Mancini), I Love Paris (Cole Porter, my arrangement), Puttin' On The Ritz (Irving Berlin).
When I finished, I put my cello back in its case, and my check with my music.

Monday, January 17, 2005

Works in Progress

Well, as I noted before, this is going to take a while. I have been transposing about a song a day from treble clef to bass clef, all in pencil by hand. Sure, there's probably a better way. Over the weekend, I practiced about 4 hours Saturday and 3 or so on Sunday. I've been working on some popular love songs as noted earlier. Also, P. bought me a book of Scottish and Celtic cello tunes. I spent a lot of time working on some of that. Tonight (Monday) I really need to practice some more. I transcribed most of "If I Fall" (Beatles, 1964) while I waited to take B. home from her ballet class. I feel like I'm on the verge of breaking through to another level of performance. I have worked so hard on flashy classical solos, I forgot the reason people listen to live music. The Burt Bacharach is promising and I am looking forward to learning the other songs too.

I resolve to be better than just gig-ready. I want to be part of elevating cello on par with guitar.

When we watched Master and Commander I was pleasantly surprised to see cello featured.

Monday, January 10, 2005

Love Songs

My boss used to be keyboardist in a band, and he lent me his WP and EM1 fake books, plus Beatles Complete. I looked it all over, marked down some notes and handed them to my wife, who has fantastic taste when it comes to music and movies. Out of all of the collection, she chose 12 Beatles songs and about 10 total from the other two books. That's just the perfect number of songs to add to my program for the future (though I plan to add more classical and more '70s - '80s songs). With a Valentine's gig coming (and a lot of wedding-related gigs a normal part of life for any musician), I was happy to see she picked out a lot of love songs, many of which I would have overlooked, but now I can see how well they will fit in. Here are some of the titles I plan to start working on soon:

* So Far Away * You Light Up My Life * Look Of Love * You've Got A Friend * Spanish Eyes * Strangers In The Night * The Way We Were (I added the last three; Spanish Eyes was a request, though I don't know if I've got the right version)
* I'll Have To Say I Love You In A Song * Time In A Bottle * Could I Have This Dance * Woman * Waiting For A Girl Like You (I added the last one)
*The Long And Winding Road * Ringo's Theme (This Boy) * And I Love Her * If I Fell * I'm Looking Through You * In My Life * Here, There And Everywhere * Penny Lane * Across The Universe * Blackbird * I Will * Let It Be * Birthday (I added the last one)

Pretty much all of the songs date from about 1968 to 1982, with lots of early '70s stuff. What it all amounts to is a lot of music for me to transcribe (by hand) and arrange for cello solo, since the original melodies are in treble (not bass) clef. Also, I am arranging for a solo instrument, so I need to consider what elements to include from the other parts, to help capture the hook of each song. This should be fun, since my favorite songs are the kind that really emote, and I sense most of these do that. But oh boy do I have my work cut out for me!