Lincoln Park Days (August 23, 24 & 25)

This weekend offers a couple of festivals downriver. I will definitely be checking out the bands at Lincoln Park Days. Along with my earlier articles praising the Downriver Development Authority and their participation in the Downriver Cruise and InsideOut Art project, kudos to the Lincoln Park Exchange Club.

According to their website:

The Exchange Club of Lincoln Park is a service organization with a focus on the Prevention of Child Abuse. We also promote, Americanism, Youth Programs, and Service to our Community. We  celebrated our 89th Birthday in 2011.

We hold fundraisers throughout the year to allow us to fund our programs like Youth of the Month, Youth of the Year, Scholarships to a Lincoln Park High School Graduating Senior, Believe in the Blue and many more. We host our biggest fundraiser, Lincoln Park Days, in August with a large community festival complete with a carnival, rides, community midway, bands and beer.


The Exchange Club has filled the weekend with an interesting selection of local bands.

The Lincoln Park Days Festival will be August 23, 24, 25. 2013. Festival times are Friday 4-11pm, Saturday 12-11pm and Sunday 12-9pm.

2013 Lincoln Park Days Entertainment Schedule
Friday 5-6:30pm
Lucky Stiff
www.Facebook.com
Friday 8 to 11pm
Ray’s Garage
www.Facebook.com
Saturday 12-2pm
FREE Zumba with Zumba Krista
Saturday 2 to 3 pm
Brass Knuckle Karma
Saturday 4-7pm
Doesn’t Matter
www.Facebook.com
Saturday 8-11pm
Superlast
www.reverbnation.com
Sunday 12-2:30pm
JD Eicher and the Good Nights - acoustic set
www.jdeicherandthegoodnights.com
Sunday 3:30-5pm
Twistin Terantulas
www.twistinterantulas.com
Sunday 6-9pm
Terry Lea and the Mustangs
www.reverbnation.com  

For more information, visit the Lincoln Park Exchange Club website.

http://www.lpexchange.clubexpress.com/

Thanks to the Exchange Club for providing this showcase of bands.

If you have any thoughts to share on Lincoln Park Days, please let us know your experience.

Peace,
Annette DeMaggio
www.songsofjoymi.com

Landfill Harmonic Orchestra --- Building Instruments from Trash

Thanks to Nancy Piatek for sharing this video with me.

According to the Landfill Harmonic Orchestra website:

Welcome to Landfill Harmonic. A film about a garbage picker, a music teacher and a group of children from a Paraguayan slum who play instruments made entirely of garbage. Landfill Harmonic is a beautiful story about the transformative power of music, which also highlights two vital issues of our times: poverty and waste pollution. The story develops in one of the poorest slums in Latin America. Just outside Asuncion, Paraguay; Cateura is the city’s trash dump. It is built on a landfill. Here, people live in a sea of garbage. And they live from garbage. 

Surrounded by stories of drug-violence, alcoholism and destitution, they make herculean efforts to reaffirm their life and dignity. 
There was no money for real instruments when local musician Favio Chavez started his music school in the barrio, so together they started to make instruments from trash - violins and cellos from oil drums, flutes from water pipes and spoons, guitars from packing crates. Our film documents the origins of the Orchestra and, as the story evolves, follows them on a world tour. Join us in this journey and witness the mind-boggling inventive effort of a humble garbage picker, and a music teacher that using their ingenuity, where able to create instruments out of recycled materials, bringing to life one of the world’s most unlikely orchestras. 
It is entirely made of garbage. They call it “The Recycled Orchestra”. 
Coming soon. On January 2014.

View a short video:

http://www.youtube.com/watch_popup?v=UJrSUHK9Luw

This is inspirational and all musicians should be even more appreciative of the beautiful and melodious instruments we are privileged to play. So, go hug your instrument right now!

If you would like to add any comments about home made instruments, we'd like to hear your story.

Peace,
Annette DeMaggio
www.songsofjoymi.com

Early Music Lessons Boost the Brain --- CBC - Quirks and Quarks with Bob McDonald

Again, CBC radio has provided another thought provoking story regarding the long term benefits of learning an instrument. This interview examines the benefits of early musical training, especially for those under the age of 7 and its effect on the brain.

According to the preface:

If you started piano lessons in grade one, or played the recorder in kindergarten, thank your parents and teachers. Those lessons you dreaded – or loved – helped develop your brain. The younger you started music lessons, the stronger the connections in your brain.

 

A study published last month in the Journal of Neuroscience suggests that musical training before the age of seven has a significant effect on the development of the brain, showing that those who began early had stronger connections between motor regions – the parts of the brain that help you plan and carry out movements. 

 

This research was carried out by students in the laboratory of Concordia Universitypsychology professor Virginia Penhune, and in collaboration with Robert J. Zatorre, a researcher at the Montreal Neurological Institute and Hospital at McGill University.

 

The study provides strong evidence that the years between ages six and eight are a “sensitive period” when musical training interacts with normal brain development to produce long-lasting changes in motor abilities and brain structure. “Learning to play an instrument requires coordination between hands and with visual or auditory stimuli,” says Penhune. “Practicing an instrument before age seven likely boosts the normal maturation of connections between motor and sensory regions of the brain, creating a framework upon which ongoing training can build.” 

I expect that there are other benefits too. The confidence, persistence and good habits that are formed in my students are enough for me to say "early musical education is paramount to joy, inquisitiveness and exploration."

Listen to the full interview:

http://www.cbc.ca/quirks/episode/2013/02/16/february-16-2013/

If you have any comments on the benefits of early music education, please share with us.

Peace,
Annette DeMaggio
www.songsofjoymi.com

Succeeding at the Piano, FREE Workshop for Piano Teachers

Evola Music Center in Canton will be offering a FREE workshop for piano teachers titled "Succeeding at the Piano - Quality Music Education Begins at the First Lesson".

Friday, August 16th
9:30 am
Evola Music Center
7170 N. Haggerty Road
Canton, MI  48187
Email: slee@evola.com
Website: www.evola.com
734-455-4677



Dr. Marlais will share videos of her students in the Preparatory and Grade 1 levels of the Succeeding at the Piano method. See how students learn to read better with a combined note reading approach, and how learning correct technique and addressing musicality early launches students on the right path from the very beginning! The every-popular In Recital series will also be included in this workshop, and you will learn more about The FJH Pianist's Curriculum, designed to supplement every lesson according to each of your student's needs.

Teachers attending the SATP Workshop will receive a complimentary copy of the Helen Marlais Student Assignment Book free-of-charge.

Register today and don't miss this chance to attend a highly informative and insightful workshop with this outstanding pedagogue and clinician.

If you have a favorite teaching method, or were taught a great method, share your experience with us.

See you there!

Peace,
Annette DeMaggio
www.songsofjoymi.com

InsideOut --- Lincoln Park Participates with DIA Prints

In a previous post, I bragged on Lincoln Park and its participation in the Downriver Cruise. There were bands up and down Fort Street. The Downtown Development Authority, with Madhu Oberoi as Executive Director, hosted a great party.

Now, they have stepped up again to be part of the InsideOut program sponsored by the DIA.

According to the DIA website:

Inside|Out, now in its fourth year, brings nearly 80 reproductions of masterpieces from the DIA's collection to the streets and parks of metro Detroit, pleasantly surprising and delighting residents of the participating communities. Where possible, the works are clustered within walking or biking distance of each other in a grand, open-air gallery.

The DIA is working with the communities to plan educational opportunities and other fun activities, such as bicycle and walking tours. Residents of participating communities will enjoy a designated weekend to visit the museum for free and see "their" works of art. Visitors will receive a 10 percent discount in Café DIA and the museum shop, $1 off Detroit Film Theatre (DFT) tickets and free admission to showings of the DFT 101 film series.

The six paintings in Lincoln Park are all within walking distance near Southfield and Fort St. View them when visiting The Moose Lodge, Fort Street Brewery, Park Restaurant, Library or City Hall. If you visit one of these displays, please comment. We'd like to have your feedback.

Thanks Lincoln Park DDA and the DIA!

Peace,

Annette DeMaggio

www.songsofjoymi.com 

Jian Ghomeshi Interviews Joni Mitchell --- CBC Radio

Jian Ghomeshi is a wonderful interviewer from Canada. He has a great gift for conducting in-depth interviews with the most interesting artists. This one hour and forty-five minute interview is a great example of his style and passion that he shares with his audience. He asks great questions and let's his guest do the talking.

Joni Mitchell is a Canadian singer songwriter, musician and artist. In the 60s, when a woman that wrote her own music and was a prolific musician was a rarity, she associated with Crosby Stills Nash and Young, Led Zeppelin and Bob Dylan along with many others. Joni has the most unique and varied range in her voice and guitarists are in awe of her open tuning and non-standard tuning.

Listen to this interview and learn more about this great interviewer and Joni Mitchell:

http://music.cbc.ca/#/concerts/CBC-Music-Exclusives-The-Joni-Mitchell-Interview-2013-06-04

In a world of 15 minute sound bites, it is refreshing to listen to an interview of this depth.

Share your thoughts on Joni Mitchell and this wonderful interview.

Peace,
Annette DeMaggio
www.songsofjoymi.com

Bands Performing in the Lincoln Park Stretch of the 14th Annual Downriver Cruise

This weekend is the 14th Annual Downriver Cruise. This vintage car cruise travels along Fort Street through Lincoln Park, Southgate and Wyandotte. Due to construction, Riverview is not participating this year.

Lincoln Park has stepped up to offer two days of entertainment to celebrate the event. Although Lincoln Park has had bands in Memorial Park and the Fort Street Brewery
has had bands perform on Warwick St., I believe that this year's entertainment is greater than ever. Thanks to the businesses and organizers who are providing this entertainment.

Visit the "Cruisin Downriver" website for more information:

http://www.cruisindownriver.com/

FRIDAY NIGHT PAINTER SUPPLY
Chain reaction 6:00pm - 9:30 pm

FRIDAY NIGHT FORT STREET BREWERY
Science Fair 6:00pm - 9:30 pm

SATURDAY CRUISE DAY

Painters Supply Hours
Benny and jetts 11:00am - 3:00pm
Science Fair 3:00pm - 6:00 pm
Matto 6:00pm - 9:30pm

Park Restaurant Hours
Lemon James 11:00am - 3:00pm
Big Mitch 3:00pm - 6:00pm
Rock Harley 6:00pm - 9:30pm
Fort Street Brewery Hours
Paul Nelson 11:00am - 3:00pm
Sound Proof 3:00pm - 6:00pm A.R.C/KISS TRIBUTE/Hard Drive 6:00pm - 9:30pm

As a Lincoln Parker, I'm especially proud to participate in this positive celebration in the north end. In the past, I've seen the Back Beats (Beatles tribute band) in Memorial Park, Lemon James at Fort Street Brewery, and other bands along the cruise route.

Share your experiences in regards to music at Cruisin' Downriver.

Peace,
Annette DeMaggio
www.songsofjoymi.com

Downriver Summer Concert Series

One of my favorite activities during the summer is enjoying music outdoors. It is such a refreshing change from inside concerts that are outrageously expensive or being in a bar. The crowd is much more diverse and the music is almost always worthwhile.

With all of the belt tightening in every city, I'm encouraged to see that these concert series are surviving.

For families it is very comfortable. Children are free to play and run, there is usually access to restrooms and the concerts are free! This is a great opportunity to have a picnic dinner with the family and enjoy our local parks.

Usually twice a year the News Herald publishes a listing of events. One early summer, the other late summer and fall. Here is a link to the Summer Buzz:

http://www.thenewsherald.com/articles/2013/05/29/entertainment/doc519e8fcf0a897632530340.txt

Many other cities outside of downriver also have concert series, so there should be something every night this summer to enjoy.

Please comment and share your favorite downriver summer events with other readers.

Peace,
Annette DeMaggio
www.songsofjoymi.com
734-693-6656

"The Artist's Way", Week 12 FINAL REFLECTION

In two previous posts, I shared my journey through the exercises in "The Artist's Way" by Julia Cameron.

The first post reflects on Chapters 1 - 4. The second post reflects on Chapters 5 - 8.

This post will reflect on Chapters 9 - 12 and the overall experience.

Some text from the book that really impacted me:

The part of us that creates best is not a driven, disciplined automaton, functioning from willpower, with a boost of pride to back it up. This is operating out of self-will. You know the image: rising at dawn with military precision, saluting the desk, the easel, the drawing board...

Over any extended period of time, being an artist requires enthusiasm more than discipline. Enthusiasm is not an emotional state. It is a spiritual commitment, a loving surrender to our creative process, a loving recognition of all the creativity around us.

Enthusiasm (from the Greek, "filled with God") is an ongoing energy supply tapped into the flow of life itself. Enthusiasm is grounded in play, not work.  Far from being a brain-numbed soldier, our artist is actually our child within, our inner playmate. As with all playmates, it is joy, not duty that makes for a lasting bond.

Throughout the book, Ms.Cameron asks many questions to help the reader unblock their creative power. These questions were very thought provoking:

What habit do you have that gets in the way of your creativity?
What do you think might be a problem?
What do you plan to do about the habit or problem?
What is your payoff in holding on to this block?

Which friends make you doubt yourself?
Which friends believe in you and your talent?
What is the payoff in keeping your destructive friends? If they answer is, "I like them", the next question is, "Why"?

Asking, "What is the payoff for being destructive to yourself" is different for me and forced me to look at some truth.

In another assignment, you take a piece of paper and cut seven small strips from it. One each strip write one of the following words: alcohol, drugs, sex, work, money, food, family/friends. Fold these strips of paper and place them in an envelope. Now draw one of the "deadlies" from the envelop and write five ways in which it has had a negative impact on your life.

All of this has been very eye opening, and in the future, I will be repeating the process again to unblock more resistance in being an artist.

If you have read this book, and worked the exercises, please comment. If you have read similar books that have helped you, please comment too.

Peace,
Annette DeMaggio
www.songsofjoymi.com
734-693-6656

Then The Curtain Opened: The Bracing Impact Of Stravinsky's 'Rite'

NPR offers another great audio file that discusses the unexpected reception during the first performance of Igor Stravinsky's "The Rite of Spring". According to the introduction:

One hundred years ago this week, a ballet premiered that changed the art world. Igor Stravinsky's Le Sacre du Printemps — The Rite of Spring — was first seen by the public on May 29, 1913, in Paris. As the orchestra played The Rite's swirling introduction, the audience at the Théâtre des Champs-Elysées began to murmur. Then the curtain opened.

Dancers dressed in folkloric costumes began to move unpredictably to the pounding chords. In the theater, the rumbles grew to pandemonium — hoots and jeers, arguments and even fistfights between traditionalists and modernists in the audience. It became difficult to hear the music.

Here is the link:

http://www.npr.org/blogs/deceptivecadence/2013/05/25/186497792/then-the-curtain-opened-the-bracing-impact-of-stravinskys-rite

This is truly an enjoyable story about this event and the way that the human brain hears music and sound. Very entertaining and informative.

Please share your thoughts and experiences on Igor Stravinsky, "The Rite of Spring" or experiencing an audience react to a piece of art that was unexpected.

Peace,

Annette DeMaggio

www.songsofjoymi.com

Remembering Ray Manzarek, Keyboardist For The Doors

Rock-n-Roll lost another great musician with the death of Ray Manzarek. NPR replayed a 1998 interview with Terry Gross. According to the introduction:

The mythology surrounding The Doors has centered largely on its lead singer, Jim Morrison, who died under mysterious circumstances in 1971. Morrison is still considered one of rock music's tortured poets and sex gods, but instrumentally, The Doors' distinctive sound was based on Ray Manzarek's keyboard playing. His are the riffs made famous in such songs such as "Riders on the Storm," "Break on Through" and "People Are Strange."

Listen to the audio. Besides talking to Ray, he plays examples of songs where he used rockabilly and classical music and transferred the sound to rock-n-roll.

The link is below:

http://www.npr.org/2013/05/24/185827139/remembering-ray-manzarek-keyboardist-for-the-doors

Enjoy this audio interview and be inspired by this great keyboardist.

Please comment on your enjoyment of the Doors or Ray Manzarek.

Peace,
Annette DeMaggio
www.songsofjoymi.com

The Artist's Way --- Week 9

I've just finished week 9 of the "Artist's Way" by Julia Cameron. This is a follow-up to the original post and 4th week reflections.

As previously noted, there are many assignments each week. Some of the reoccurring assignments are daily journaling, artist's dates and artist's walks.

I've been faithful with my journaling, completing three pages first thing in the morning. I have found the journaling  helped clear my head and communicate any anxiety, fears, concerns, joys and disappointments. It has helped me to see some of my temper tantrums and that there was always light at the end of the tunnel.

The artist's dates have been easy to accomplish because I regularly visit galleries, attend performances and much of my free time is dedicated to exploring or creating art.

Because we have had such a dark and cold spring, the artist's walks have been few and far between.

I am embracing the encouragement from the author that art is not something frivalous, or that it is any less important then the other activities in our adult life. It is something I must do. Practicing my art is good for me. Good for those I love. Good for those that enjoy it. The way we thank God for our talents.

Here are some paragraphs from Chapter 9 that really resonated with me:

"That part of us that creates best is not a drive, disciplined automaton, functioning from willpower, with a boost of price to back it up. This is operating out of self-will. You know the image: rising at dawn with military precision, saluting the desk, the easel, the drawing board...

Over an extended period of time, being an artist requires enthusiasm more than discipline. Enthusiasm is not an emotional state. It is a spiritual commitment, a loving surrender to our creative process, a loving recognition of all the creativity around us.

Enthusiasm (from the Greek, "filled with God") is an ongoing energy supply tapped into the flow of life itself. Enthusiasm is grounded in play, not work. Far from being a brain-numbed soldier, our artist is actually our child within, our inner playmate. As with all playmates, it is joy, not duty, that makes for a lasting bond."

My favorite assignments:

• List 10 things I want to do
• My list was so doable and doesn't include anything too exotic or elaborate. Money or time are not roadblocks to these wants.
• List people I admire
• Most of the people I admire are "Renaissance Men" who have done many things well and were leaders in many different areas. They also had a good time while they were achieving greatness and were definitely unconventional.
• Send five post cards to people I'd like to see again
• No problem naming five people to reconnect with.

Although I am losing a bit of interest in the journaling, I will complete the process with the best of intentions. In fact, I returned the library's copy and bought the book for myself. I can see this as a resource to revisit annually to unblock my artist and bring in new inspiration.

Have you worked this program, or a similar process, and what did you gain?

Peace,

Annette DeMaggio

www.songsofjoymi.com

734-693-6656

Yoga4Peace --- Yoga for Musicians

Erin Moss  & Yoga4Peace have planned two yoga practices especially for musicians. "Yoga for Musicians" is scheduled for Sunday April 20th and 27th.

According to their website, "After playing the flute for over 8 years, participating in musical theater, and having discussions with a plethora of musically inclined friends, I began to notice that many musicians complained about the same ailments again and again. I have developed a class that can, with continued practice, help to alleviate and possibly even prevent these issues due to poor posture, sitting or standing too long, holding up a heavy instrument, or the repetitive motion that making music often requires."

Yoga4Peace is a wonderful practice space and the instructors are well trained and inclusive of students regardless of yoga experience.

Visit their website for more information about Yoga4Peace and the "Yoga for Musicians" practices.

http://y4peace.org/

If you attend the yoga practice,  or are a yogi and/or musician with a comment, please share your experience with the community here.

Peace,
Annette DeMaggio
www.songsofjoymi.com

Creative Activities Sited in Search Institute Developmental Assets

The Search Institute, a non-profit based in Minnesota, that for fifty years, has been an innovator in discovering what kids need to succeed in their families, schools, and communities. The organization has identified 40 Developmental Assets that help young people grow up healthy, caring and responsible. These range from positive family communication and support to creative activities, personal empowerment and a sense of purpose.

The 40 Developmental Assets are broken down into two categories, External Assets and Internal Assets.
One of the 20 External Assets is Creative Activities.

By age group, here are the building blocks for Creative Activities:

Children Grades K-3 (age 5 - 9)
Child participates weekly in music, dance or other form of artistic expression outside of school.

Middle Childhood (age 8 - 12)
Child participates in music, art, drama or creative writing two or more times per week.

Adolescents (ages 12 - 18)
Young person spends three or more hours per week in lessons or practice in music, theater, or other arts.

Even for adults, it remains important to maintain solid blocks upon which to build and grow. A genuine curiosity and love of lifelong learning will improve any one's quality of life. In fact, I would encourage adults to adopt these Developmental Assets for themselves.

To learn more about the Search Institute and available resources, check out their website:

http://www.search-institute.org/content/what-kids-need

Please comment on the importance of Creative Activities. Your personal experience may encourage others to enjoy this life enhancing asset.

Peace,
Annette DeMaggio
www.songsofjoymi.com

"The Artist's Way", 4th Week Reflections

Many years ago, I became aware of this book. It was available through the library, and I am now into my fourth week of a twelve week study.

"The Artist's Way", but Julia Cameron is a self-exploration to identify the people, issues or fears that block us from being more creative. The chapters are very short with some detailed assignments for each week. One ongoing assignment is the daily "stream of consciousness" writing. One may call them journals, and although I am not sure of their full impact yet, they are a good way to vent your thoughts first thing in the morning.

Some other weekly activities include, artist's walks, artist's dates and identifying feelings and changes that are occurring. Like other 12 step programs, they are effective because a big part of success is admitting that there is a problem. Once one admits that, we can work through the barriers that are hindering us from embracing and moving onto being our best artist.

This book is often used in a group study. Again, like other 12 step programs, some people will stay with it and gain more by sharing with a group. The group may keep you with the program.

Either way, I think this is a good way to spend 12 weeks. I'll post again during week 8 and 12. Some amazing things have happened already. Stay tuned!

Peace,
Annette DeMaggio
www.songsofjoymi.com

Piano Tops Most Popular Instruments in the United States

This exercise was a good lesson in challenging my perceptions. What are the most popular instruments in the United States?

Although I expected guitar to be the most popular instrument by far in the United States, and that the piano would be second, I was corrected this week as I researched this topic. Here is the listing:

Piano
Guitar
Violin
Bass Guitar
Flute
Clarinet
Cello


The Piano is by far the most popular instrument in the United States.

• Seven hundred and fifty thousand pianos made around the world each year. 
• Twenty-one million Americans, that's close to 1 in 10, play the piano. 
• More Americans play the piano than all the other instruments combined.

Wow! I was shocked to see violin in the #3 spot. When I'm out and about jamming, I don't happen upon another violinist unless we are playing Irish, early American or Bluegrass. And yes, of course, classical.

Additionally, it's surprising that cello even made it on the list at all.

If you are a musician, let us know the type of instrument you play and some of the more unusual instrumentalists you may have heard or played with.

Peace,
Annette DeMaggio
www.songsofjoymi.com

Three Legs of Musicianship --- Play Well With Others

Being an artist is a lifelong passion and requires different inputs to mature. Similar to advancing through our educational system, an artist can choose to remain at:

• Grade school level --- choosing an instrument and starting lessons
• High school level --- years of training and steady advancement to more difficult pieces and genres
• College --- performing in front of an audience and playing with others
• Advanced degrees --- attaining personal musical goals and sharing it with others 

All require perseverence, determination and letting go of inhibitions.

There are three important components:

• Practice! Practice! Practice
• Proper instruction and influences
• Public performance and playing with others

Although everyone might not require private lessons, every artist must practice. Growth cannot start or flourish without making lots of mistakes and discovering the right way to achieve a particular sound.

Proper instruction and influences are important. If this is a teacher, it is important that the teacher is taking your personal interests and skill level into account. They should be looking for pieces that will keep you challenged and engaged while allowing you to enjoy your progress. Influences include being part of the art world, spending time with other musicians/artists and reading about art. Immerse yourself in it.

Public performance and playing with others is imperative to becoming an experienced musician. You must make yourself vulnerable, and performing in public or playing with others will do just that. If you are not doing this, start making a plan. Here are some suggestions:

• If you are taking lessons
• Ask your teacher about other students that may be willing to tackle a duet with you
• Approach other students to meet and jam
• Visit an open mic and return to perform
• East River Folk Society (2nd Saturday of every month)
• Tongue's Coffee House (Monday evening)
• If you have some experience, join a local group
• Southern Great Lakes Symphony
• Downriver Community Band
• Church worship team or choir

Put your pride and ego aside and accept the challenge. We all get nervous and have our self doubt, but as in other situations, you have to work through it for the prize. This is a natural progression for musicians, and it is never too early to start.

If you have any comments on this article or the importance of performing, please share with us.

Peace,

Annette DeMaggio

Songs of Joy

www.songsofjoymi.com

  

Detroit Medical Orchestra --- The Healing Power of Music

The Detroit Medical Orchestra --- read that again --- the Detroit Medical Orchestra will be playing a FREE concert on:

Sunday, March 10th
3:00 pm
Wayne State University
Community Arts Auditorium
450 Reuther Mall
Detroit

Admission: FREE
313-577-6943
www.detroitmedicalorchestra.org

This is an orchestra of amateur musicians made up of health professions who get together to explore the connection between  music and healing and support area medical charities.

It isn't surprising that this group of highly educated and disciplined individuals have had extensive musical training. Studies continue to point to music education as an advantage to children and adults in reading, mathematics and the ability to solve complex problems.

As a music teacher, I know that private lessons are not limited to learning a particular instrument. It is about so much more. Learning to persevere, discipline and working through adversity are all part of the journey. Once a person experiences learning to play an instrument, the student will utilize those skills in other areas of their lives.

Peace,
Annette DeMaggio
www.songsofjoymi.com

"The Successful Artist's Career Guide"

I am a huge fan of the public library system and believe that any person interested in lifelong learning should be a card carrying member. Besides the books, the librarians are very enthusiastic, knowlegable and great sleuths. If you think your local library is small and won't have all of the books you require, know that they probably belong to a network that allows library card holders to borrow books from libraries throughout the state. They will be delivered to your local library. Outstanding!

Along with reading novels that entertain and take you on journeys, it is good to read inspirational books that guide you through life's journey. One of my newest finds is "The Successful Artist's Career Guide: Finding Your Way in the Business of Art", by Margaret Peot. Although this book is for visual artists, it is quite encouraging and will open your mind to being a working artist while keeping a roof over your head and food on the table --- and much more.

Our economy and work life has changed, and we will all need to change with it. There are many negative forces that may discourage us from following our dreams. By putting good, positive and constructive thoughts into our minds, we have a much greater chance at living these dreams. Start by utilizing the resources at your library to learn more about your passions and interests.

If you have read this book, or have recommendations for artists that have chosen to combine their passion and livelihood, please share your experiences.

Peace,
Annette DeMaggio
Songs of Joy
www.songsofjoymi.com

Concerto Competition Winners to Solo with Southern Great Lakes Symphony

In a previous post, I commended the Southern Great Lakes Symphony for trying new things this season. One of them was a concerto competition where over fifty musicians vied for the chance to solo with the orchestra, with thirteen finalists completed in the semifinal round and four musicians coming out on top. These four will perform solos with the symphony on Sunday, February 24th, 3:00 at the Flat Rock Auditorium.

The four finalists include Russian violinist Maria Bessemltseva, now residing in Bowling Green, Ohio, flute/clarinet duo Sam and Kassia Martin of Hazel Park. flutist Alexis Czajka of Riverview.

This should be an great musical experiment for our listening enjoyment. Again, the SGLS is trying some exciting and innovative things.

Learn more about these musicians at:

http://sgls.org/join_us/american-favorites/

If you attended this concert, please comment on the performance.

Peace,
Annette DeMaggio
Songs of Joy
www.songsofjoymi.com

"How Music Works", David Byrne

I've read a few books on music and how human beings interpret this art form. Most books are informative, but many are too technical and high brow to leisurely enjoy.

"How Music Works" by David Byrne is quite enjoyable and really is a thought provoking journey into the history and context of creating music, recording and performing, and music in our modern times. So far, I've enjoyed his analysis of classical music and the venues in which they were performed. The music was impacted by the performance venue.

Additionally, he makes the point that many people now enjoy music as a passive observer versus a participant. Before recorded music, one could only experience music as a participant -- this included being part of the audience. This would include the visual and social aspects of the performance.

As a regular participant in live music (performer or audience member), I agree that there are many aspects to live music that make it superior to recorded. I regularly enjoy recorded music, but there is the thrill  of the unexpected that electrifies through an audience. It's truly like walking a tight rope without a net. Anything can happen!

If you don't have a library card, get one. This book was available through the Lincoln Park Library, which means it is available through participating libraries downriver.

Kudos to the Southern Great Lakes Symphony

Kudos to the Southern Great Lakes Symphony for stepping out and creating some new performance experiences. Formed in 1954, as the Allen Park Symphony, the SGLS is celebrating its 58th season. This is downriver's community symphony. I have great memories of playing second violin with the symphony as a teenager in the 1970's and again as an adult in the late 1980's.

Earlier in January, the SGLS performed Handel's Messiah as a sign-a-long. The audience was invited to bring their scores and join the choir. This event was held at St. Henry's in Lincoln Park.

Also this month, the SGLS sponsored the Downriver Concerto Competition. Thirteen soloists from as far as Boston and Baltimore, along with many local talents, entered the competition. Among the instruments were violin, viola, piano, flute, flute/clarinet duo and french horn.

Adding to the excitement was a live performance at the Grosse Ile Presbyterian Church where judges and the audience selected the winner. This is a unique and exciting adventure for the orchestra, soloists and audience.

Visit their website to learn about the finalist in the competition and the rest of the season:

www.sgls.org

Way to go!

Exercise Artistic Skills

"Natural Awakenings" is a free monthly publication distributed locally and promotes healthy living through holistic care, stress reduction and quality of life. In the January issue, "Healthy Lifestyle Tweaks" included a section on "Humming" and "Exercise Artistic Skills". The text is shared below with a link to the full article. Quotes are from Sydney Ross Singer, Medical Anthropologist.

Hum Often
Another Singer assertion is that simply humming a couple of minutes a day can stimulate the thyroid and increase the production of thyroid hormones of those with an underactive thyroid.  The butterfly-shaped gland wraps around the larynx, or voice box, which Singer contends is part of nature's elegant design, meant to be stimulated by sound.

The Cleveland Clinic reports that 10 percent of the U.S. population age 65 and over suffers from hypothyroidism, with the rate in the general population between 1 and 2 percent. The condition is a special problem for women encountering perimenopause or menopause. when hormone levels can fluctuate wildly.


Exercise Artistic Skills

Giving oneself artistic license is also healthy. Just bring a little beauty into your life, whether it's choosing which clothing and accessories to wear, arranging a vase of table flowers or dancing to favorite music. Just do something creative every day."

Energy therapists maintain that exposure to creative activities improves circulation to the brain and thyroid; on a psychological level, it also works to improve self-confidence and self-expression.

A recent study at the University of Colorado published in the journal "Palliative & Supportive Care" confirmed that individual art therapy is useful in support cancer patients during chemotherapy. Fifty-one of the 54 participants said it helped them to relax, talk about their situation or explore and express emotions to their benefit.

Robert adds, "It's even better if you join a group engaged in a creative activity. I think people in general do better when we come together to create something beautiful."

These experts' prescriptions for such simple lifestyle changes has shown

Natural Awakenings of Wayne County
http://naturalawakeningsdetroit.com/

"The Foreigner", PS Center Stage Players

Downriver offers a lot of local theatre and entertainment. This is good for the community and an inexpensive way to enjoy the arts.

The PS Center Stage Players are presenting "The Foreigner", a comedy where Charlie, a pathologically shy young man, who is overcome with fear at the thought of making conversation with strangers, poses as a visitor from an exotic foreign country and speaks no English. Then the fun begins as Charlie overhears more than he should.

Tickets are $12 for adults, $9 for students and senior citizens.

Josephine Brighton Work Skills Center
4460 18th St.
Wyandotte

PS Center Stage Players
734-285-8107
http://pscenterstageplayers.com/wordpress/

Know Your Music Teacher

Know Your Teacher

Although this article is written to focus on lessons for children, the premise is true for all music students. This is a great commitment of time, money and energy and is worth investing some time in choosing the best teacher in your area.

First, check with friends and relatives who may be studying music or the same instrument that interests you. Call music stores and local schools for references.  When you have obtained several names, set up a time to talk with each teacher in person. Ask questions before you make a commitment for lessons.

Your teacher should have experience in performing, music theory and composition, and technical training on the instrument. They should be passionate and continuing to enrich their own musical education. Your time and money will be spent with the best teacher available.

When you have found a qualified private instructor, chances are that this person is a professional who earns most or all of his income through teaching. Keep in mind that you are paying for more than the lesson time each week. You or your child will reap the benefits of the teacher’s education. In addition, the teacher spends time outside the lesson period keeping up with new trends in music, new developments in music education, preparing  material to discuss complex theory and sheet music geared toward the student’s abilities, and preparing the next lessons.

You will probably be expected to pay for all scheduled lessons, whether or not you are present. To make full use of your time and money, go to lessons even when practice time has been scarce that week. As one music teacher used to say, “Just because you don’t know anything this week, doesn’t mean that I don’t!”

Remember that you are a member of a team. Teams only succeed when they work together. If you are a parent, make a point of talking with the teacher at each lesson. This should be part of the lesson.

§                  Know him/her by first and last name.

§                  Be pleasant when interacting with him/her.

§                  Don’t waste your teacher’s time by coming late for pick-up or drop off, or by rambling

on when there are other students scheduled, but do expect a couple minutes after the lesson. In many cases this means ending the lesson 2 or 3 minutes early. This is okay!

• Be open and honest about how things are at home (in relation to the lessons of course!).

Comment on your favorite music teacher and any recommendations you can share about selecting the best teacher.

Peace,

Annette DeMaggio

www.songsofjoymi.com

Hello and Welcome!

Hello and Welcome!

Thanks for visiting my blog. The main themes will be arts and entertainment in the downriver area.

As a music instructor, entertainer and lifelong artist, I will also include real life art experiences along the way. Whether this is about teaching or being a student of music, jamming and connecting with others, or inexpensive local entertainment, I'll be writing, video taping and sharing with you.

My training in classical music, love of the blues, rock and metal, interest in blue grass, ethnic and experimental music will allow me to share a wide variety of downriver offerings. Additionally, the active visual arts and theatre groups downriver will be explored.

If you are an artist, or a lover of the arts, this should be a good source of information and connection for you. I look forward to sharing my adventures and shining the light on great talent.