I got a call sometime back asking if I was interested in playing the percussion book for Bye Birdie at my alma mater Upper Merion High School. They're putting on the show March 18, 19 and 20. They've hired a choreographer and the pit orchestra is made up of some good student musicians plus some professionals. I said yes without even thinking because this is a great chance for me to get my hand back in playing multiple percussion, something which I have been doing with a community symphony orchestra I am involved in.

It was Saturday evening, my mobile phone rang with a SMS from my guitarist friend Bernard: "Turn on to France 2!" (French TV channel) So did I...

It was the French music awards evening "Les Victoires de la Musique", the overture tune. They had chosen to make a little medley in tribute to Michael Jackson, with a bunch of French musicians of the moment.

Aug 1st - 6th Worskhop at University of Delaware with David Friedman and Tony Miceli

This is the official announcement of the University of Delaware Workshop with David Friedman and myself.

I found this on YouTube the other day. It's a nice piece, but I don't know the group.
Anyone know?

Listen to this. I've given examples before. This works perfectly on the vibes. Can you imagine playing a jazz ballad with this 'style' of playing?

There's so much to learn from Bach. He's figured it all out. So maybe the vibes are not like the guitar or the piano, they're like the violin!!!! :-)

On Friday I was expecting the delivery of my M44. But it did not happen. But to save the day Tony had shipped my mallets so I had a chance to check out grips. That's what I did much of Friday evening and Saturday.

I had already seen most of the videos on VW about grips and tried all that were mentioned.
What I discovered is that the Burton Grip is the easiest/most comfortable for me.

But I've observed one problem I'm having.

The pdf's for this lesson are under the 'Check This Out Section'.

This is an original tune by the pianist. Let me know what you think!

Joe Doubleday- Vibes
Adam Ledbetter- Rhodes
Jemar Poteat- Drums

Barry was talking about preparing for a gig he might or might not do.

It hit me while I was practicing. Every one should spend time 'preparing' for a gig. Even if you don't have one, or feel like you're not good enough. Whatever!!!

When I post my solo pieces, I'm always preparing for my solo vibe CD. I might never make this cd, but I'm always preparing for it. That gives me a level that I have to achieve with each piece.

I fantasize about making a solo cd. So I'm always preparing for it. That means I'm practicing 'for real'.