Here is what i really think though: I might be in a minority but I have always felt that the Stick is a secret invention, a gift from a higher dimention with an element of mystery if not mysticism; that at it's core it is something that transcends both it's maker and music itself. It's a "thing" that can open you onto a world of pure imagination; the instrument itself being a kind of magic key or witches broom that the adept and the occasional beginner can ride to or unlock dimensions of insight and dreams that go far beyond musical concepts like the circle of fifths or modal improvisation.

When Emmett talked about "The Stick Game of Music" he mentioned that there is a "new musical situation or game" that he wanted to "bring on…" And that; "It's not fully conscious. It's too vague for comfort…" That line "…too vague for comfort…" was the end of something (a kind of personal doubt) and the beginning for me of an exploration that appears to have no end in sight. It's strange what trigers things like that. And it's not about music, it's about a mindspace that the Stick allows me to access through musical forms and shapes; the delicate dance of fingers on strings reveals "ideas". Ideas about architecture, painting, gardens, jungles, reptiles and geometric arabesques. The Stick if one is willing to allow such things is a magic wand that turns music into what has always been at it's ultimate potential. It is par-excellence the definitive musical tool of synesthesia; an orchestra in your hands that no doubt can spin the tones and rhythms into stories, myths and personal insight. I know this. And it is why I am confused when some players say that they don't want it to sound too much like a Stick. It is true that the Stick can mimic but it is after all what it truly is; a unique and irreplaceable potential in the pantheon of instruments...

There! I said it. Dan can we put that in the movie?

JRJ

Seriously JRJ, if you would record that statement in the most sincere voice recoding possible and send me your audio file, and I will use it in some creative way. It's really quite inspired and conjures up the archetypal quality of The Stick and it's inventor.

Dan, sorry to hear you didn't reach your goal. I was curious as to whether or not you are applying for funding/grants from foundations and/or government sources? Ford Foundation, NEA, etc?

Any chance we can see the latest edit? lol.

Oh, and I may have an idea for a fun little way to generate some more $$$. I'll send you a PM.

We're intending to have a Stick Night, of some sort, in Sydney in late September, would that be too far away to be useful as a fundraiser? Or do you think the doco would even be finished by then? :O

Not likely that we could raise much funds, but it's always worth discussing possibilities and ideas of generating more interest in the Stick and it's players.

That's very thoughtful and generous Justin. That would be sensational. Whatever I can do to help with any promotion for a event like this, please let me know. I'm open to ideas.