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Go see a live show!

Ahoy!

It’s been a long time since I’ve been able to get at a computer and even think about blogging. Between finishing grad school, traveling for gigs all summer and relocating for a new job this September, I was busy! During all that time I’ve been constantly surrounded by all types of musicians; college freshman, full time professionals, weekend warriors, high school students, and casual listeners alike. When it comes to music I always ask the same two questions: what are you listening to these days and who have you gone to see live recently?

The first question gets a wide range of answers, from “Oh I’m mostly checking out podcasts” to “I don’t even know where to start because I listen to so much.” Personally I’m usually on the latter end of that spectrum as I’ve been listening to an album a day this year. More on that later. The second question however, usually gets the same answer, “I haven’t been to a show in a long time.” I simply do not understand this.

Now I fully realize that ticket prices have gotten a bit ridiculous these days (which is a blog for the Wonderfish). So I understand not going to see big name artists on a regular basis. However I guarantee that there is a local music scene you could tap into. Even if it means driving a little bit out of the way or having a later night than you’d like, going to see live music is vital to the musical experience. The main reason is that the music is only a small part of that experience.

I recently had the chance to see the amazing saxophonist Chris Potter in NYC and yet when I called my friends to tell them about it, the music portion was only a few minutes of the whole conversation. The train ride down, the stroll through the city, the sight-seeing I did after, the not getting home until 4am...all the best parts of the story. Not to mention the people you meet along the way. First there’s the fellow fans who all have amazing stories to tell but there is also a chance to network with other musicians and build your web potential with gig mates, managers, studio friends and so on.

I’m also well aware that on many occasions the sound quality at a live venue might not be to your liking. It may be too loud, or the mix might be terrible but there’s no making up for actually being able to FEEL the music pass through you and to feel the energy of the crowd and the musicians on stage. Some of the best shows I’ve seen stand out not as much because of the notes that were played but because of the way the notes felt as they hit me. The atmosphere in the room is not something that can be captured on a recording.

I strongly encourage you to find a show this next week to go see. Whether it's a big artist or just some coffee shop guitar players, please, be a part of the community. Strike up a conversation after and let the music truly be a part of your life.

Until next time,
Heard

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