Thanksgiving

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A Thanksgiving to Remember: Jammin’ with Family

Thanksgiving this year was truly something special. My son, brother, and mom came over, so we decided to turn our holiday gathering into a full-blown family jam session.

We have always loved playing music, but this year, we took it to the next level. With some impromptu jamming, we formed a band right in my studio. It was incredible to see how effortlessly it was for my son and brother to come together on some Ozzy and Three Days Grace. We also played a mix of some other classic rock songs as well as the modern hits, and to our surprise the songs turned out really good!

To top it all off, we even put on a light and fog show, transforming the studio into a mini concert venue. Mom was our dedicated audience, cheering us on and enjoying the performance.

Those moments always remind me just how important family is. Sometimes life gets pretty busy and it can be easy to get wrapped up in the day-to-day events. I hope I don’t ever look back and realize I missed some of the most important things in life.

This Thanksgiving will forever be etched in my memory. It was most certainly a fun time of catching up, having an amazing dinner, and cranking out some tunes. I am so grateful for the opportunity to share a day jamming in the studio with family.

Thanksgiving

My son and brother rocking out White Stripes

If you have any questions or comments about the jam sessions, guitar, bass, or drum lessons. Please contact us. 

Beginner Drum Students

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The First Songs on Drums

Are you ready to rock out? My beginner drum students are certainly having a blast learning the fundamentals of drumming with two iconic songs: “We Will Rock You” by Queen and “7 Nation Army” by The White Stripes.

These two songs are perfect for beginners because they introduce simple, repetitive beats that are easy to learn and fun to play. The steady, driving rhythm of “We Will Rock You” helps students develop a strong sense of time and coordination, while the heavy, distorted guitar riff of “7 Nation Army” provides a powerful backdrop for some serious drum beats.

Beginner Drum Students

Using 2500 Watts of Sound

Keeping My Beginner Drum Students Engaged

To make learning even more engaging, I have introduced a new drum riser that puts students center stage. The LED lights not only create a cool atmosphere but also help students feel like rock stars. Additionally, a large 27-inch video monitor makes it easy for students to follow along with the sheet music, even as the tempo picks up. And with the help of a special software program, we can slow down the beats and gradually increase the speed to help students master the rhythm.

The best part is watching my student’s progress. What started as simple beats and basic rhythms has evolved into more complex patterns and fills. Some of my current students are already tackling songs by popular bands like Imagine Dragons and 5 Finger Death Punch, as well as exploring the soulful world of blues rhythms. It is truly inspiring to see their passion and dedication to the craft.

So, if you are ready to unleash your inner drummer, I encourage you to give it a try. With a little practice and a lot of fun, you will be rocking out in no time.

If you have any questions or comments, please contact us, we’d love to hear from you!

Coffee Bar

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Creating a Coffee Bar

I never thought that putting together a coffee bar for my students would be so much fun! It all started when I realized that many of my students were traveling from Fort Collins or Denver for their lessons. I wanted to offer them a little pick-me-up to help them out once they arrive.

What started as a small gesture has turned into a ritual. I’ve set up a corner in my music studio, complete with a Nespresso Vertuo machine, a variety of coffee pods, a selection of creamers, and a few sweet treats. It is a simple setup, but it has made a big difference in the atmosphere of my lessons.

Coffee Bar

Fresh Coffee

Always Experimenting

As students arrive, they are greeted with that amazing coffee aroma. The parents, too, often take advantage of it. It’s amazing to see how a cup of coffee can be so appreciated especially for people with hectic schedules.

One of the best parts of setting up the coffee bar is the experimentation. I love trying out different Nespresso pods, from bold espressos to smooth lattes. It is a fun way to discover new flavors and find the perfect brew for each mood. Sometimes, I even experiment with different coffee recipes, like adding a touch of cinnamon or a unique set of creamers.

The coffee bar has also become a great conversation starter. Watching the students perk up after offering them a cup is rewarding. It is a way to connect on a personal level and build stronger relationships.

I am so glad it worked out like it did. It is a small thing, but it has made a big impact on my teaching experience. It is a reminder that even the simplest gestures can bring joy and create lasting memories.

If you have any comments, feel free to contact us.

Guitar for Christmas

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Why Buy an Electric Guitar for Christmas

Coming into the holiday season, parents want to get their son or daughter a guitar for Christmas. I often get asked what type of guitar they should buy. If they are under 10, I always recommend going with a ¾ size Fender Squier electric guitar. A full-size acoustic guitar can be a bit daunting for little hands. Not only that, the acoustic guitars are a bit more difficult to learn on.

The Perfect Starter Guitar: The 3/4 Electric

Amazon offers a fantastic option for young musicians: a 3/4-size electric guitar. Currently they cost $269 and come complete with a starter pack which includes picks, a strap, an amp, a tuner, and a cable. Everything a young guitarist needs to start jamming right away.

Guitar for Christmas

Fender Squier

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Why Electric Guitars are a Great Choice for Beginners

  • Easier to Play: Electric guitars have lower action, meaning the strings are closer to the fretboard. This makes it easier for young players to press down on the strings, reducing finger fatigue.
  • Amplification: Plugging into an amp allows for a wider range of sounds and volume control, making practice sessions more engaging.
  • Versatility: Electric guitars can be used for various genres of music, from rock and pop to blues and jazz.
  • Strings are Thinner: The string gauge is usually much smaller on an electric making them easier to push down.

Other Benefits of a 3/4-Size Guitar

  • Portability: Smaller size makes it easier for young players to carry and transport.
  • Comfort: Better fit for smaller bodies, promoting correct playing posture.
  • Affordability: A great entry-level instrument without breaking the bank.

Choosing the Right Color

One of the best parts about buying an electric guitar is the wide range of colors available. From classic black to vibrant red, blue, or pink, there is a color to suit every taste. Your young musician can choose a color that inspires them to pick up the guitar and start playing.

The Squier Stratocaster is a fantastic choice for young guitarists. It is well-built, sounds great, and looks cool. With its affordable price and all-inclusive package, it is a great way to get started on your musical journey.

If you are looking for a fun and rewarding hobby for your child, consider an electric guitar. With the right tools and a little bit of practice, they will be strumming their favorite songs in no time.

If you have any questions about the best type of guitar to purchase, feel free to contact us. 

Adding a Drum Riser

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Elevate Your Studio Sound 

As a musician, you know the importance of a well-equipped studio. A great-sounding room, quality instruments, and top-notch recording gear are essential. Adding a drum riser is one often-overlooked element that can significantly impact your sound and workflow.

Adding a Drum Riser

Unique Layout for a Drum Riser

Why Build a Drum Riser?

A drum riser is a platform that elevates the drum kit, providing several key benefits:

  1. Improved Sound Quality:
    • Reduced Bleed: By raising the drums, you minimize sound bleed into microphones for other instruments, resulting in cleaner recordings.
    • Enhanced Mic Placement: A higher drum kit allows for better microphone placement, capturing the full range of sound without interference.
  2. Better Visibility and Communication:
    • Clear Line of Sight: A raised drum kit gives the drummer a better view of the rest of the band, making it easier to follow cues and maintain timing.
    • Improved Stage Presence: For live performances, a riser can enhance the drummer’s visibility, making them a more integral part of the show.

Building Your Own: A DIY Guide

If you’re a DIY enthusiast, building your own can be a rewarding project.

Some Tips:

  • Consider Soundproofing: If noise reduction is a priority, add soundproofing materials like acoustic foam or insulation to the riser’s frame.
  • Incorporate Storage: Design the riser with built-in storage compartments for drumsticks, cymbal bags, or other gear.
  • Add Carpet: Staple the carpet to the top of the riser, pulling it taut to prevent wrinkles.
  • Place and Secure: Position the riser in your studio and secure it to the floor to prevent movement.
  • Safety First: Ensure the riser is stable to prevent accidents.

By investing in a well-designed and constructed drum riser, you can elevate your studio’s sound, improve your workflow, and take your music to new heights.

If you have any comments or questions, please contact us.