I m very lucky I’m getting to play an hour set again this time on the museum stage. It’s my third year playing here. First year I was stuck in the back corner by the art tent where I entertained a group of adult women painting landscapes. I think only 3 people saw me including Kevin Chaisson whom you may know. I was super nervously s and glad I was stuck in a corner. The following year they put me on the street but at one end at the beginning and I think maybe 20 people walked by. No stage there just set up in front of a bead store. So I’m moving up in the world. It’s a small side stage but that’s ok. I have something like 33 tunes I’m working on. Some in better shape than others. I only need 12 so should be fine. Will do some originals this time. Got a lot of chances to play at Vancouver Stick camp (4 times at least) so I’m feeling very comfortable and looking forward to it. The picture below is the promo they are using. I’m not crazy about the picture. Must have found it on lots ne somewhere. It’s from the Interlochen Stick camp at the Karlin Inn. Biggest thing I learned was breathe and take my time. It worked great in Vancouver.

Ok could not attach the picture as file was too big. If anyone wants to see the site search Belmont Village Bestival and look at what’s happening and look for museum stage.

That is cool! Will you be playing that original song of yours? The one you recorded on your trumpet album?
Sounds soooo cool on the stick!!!


Enviado do meu iPhone usando o Tapatalk

Yes I’ll be doing that one and a few others . Turns out I have about 7 original tunes almost ready and I’ve got enough to get ten for an album I’ll be trying to get it done after November as I have a big gig November 22 with my Septet. No stick in that group at least this time. If I can get Wifi I might try live streaming the gig at the Bestival. Jen is coming as my roadie. (And groupie)

Hey...BIG congrats! I looked it up. And I took that photo! Ha. Maybe they're check is in the mail...

And I am certainly familiar with working your way up from entry level gigs of previous years. I'm constantly having to prove I'm not some washed-up hippie hack. Or maybe that's just my own personal battle. I'm sure you'll be great!

This is like music to my ears. Rob, you are so ready for the 3 hour gig...! It's the most unreal challenge, but it's so gratifying setting the mood of the room just way you want it. I'm certain everyone is going to dig it.

Agreed on breathing. I spend much of the day in preparation working through recoveries. As long as you keep playing, no one is going to catch any missed / glissed notes.

Breathing is a great technique to use if you get nervous. I remember quite well what Rod told me - Play with confidence. Nobody wants to see a musician that does not play with confidence(!). I have always maintained that one needs to play with passion, but equal parts confidence and patience are necessary!

I really enjoyed Per's most recent video. You can see how he fills the room with sound, setting the tone for what's to follow. He allows lots of space in his music and sets a nice foundation. He's so patient! As a listener, one can't help but lean in to the music to see what comes next - patience!

Another technique that I recall hearing Dan Chapman mention when he visited Mallorca was to wait till later in the set to go big with effects. You have to figure you are the only thing in the room making music, so save a few tricks for later in the set to evoke interest for your listeners and inspiration for you.

I'm certain you are really going to enjoy the gig Rob. I like hearing that they've stepped up their game on helping you deliver your music. We're all fired up for video! Go make something beautiful