Allo Internet

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Switching to Allo Internet from Comcast

I am so excited for my new Allo internet.

Being a very loyal customer, I will do quite a bit to stay with a company that treats me well and offers good service. However, after not having any problems with Comcast (now Xfinity) for over 20 years, I started losing connection with online students and had to continually watch the circle spin. This was especially prevalent around 5pm when everyone was home from work.

Trying to Troubleshoot

Initially, I thought since my modem was 10 years, that could be the problem. Before calling Xfinity, I decided to spend $200 and get a good modem that was on their compatible equipment list. My router was fairly new, so the technology on that should be ok.

The new modem didn’t solve the problem, so I called and they sent a service tech who put in a new line to the junction box. That didn’t seem to help either. The service tech said there is a lot of noise in the line from the houses around me, so that may be the problem.

The tech said if the problems persisted, then I’d need to rent their modem. I was wondering how a new modem would help with the noise in the line, but figured he’d know better than me.

Finally, after a couple more weeks of dropped signal and spinning wheels, I went to bite the bullet and order one of their modem rentals.

Allo Internet

The Spinning Wheel

Xfinity Computer Hangs Up on Me

After calling Xfinity, all I could get was their automated computer. I had already done all the online trouble shooting, so there was no need to go through all of that again. Besides, the tech said I’d need to rent a modem.

After repeating “representative,” “customer service,” etc. the computer told me I would have to go online to trouble shoot and then just said “Good-bye” and hung up on me. Wow. I got hung up on by a computer.

I figured that was my cue.

The Switch to Allo Internet

I did some research and finally called Allo. What amazing customer service. I actually spoke with a live, human representative right away. She was super friendly and wanted to make sure I knew how excited they were to have me. Sold!

Now I am still new, but their tech came out and was incredibly friendly. We worked together running the lines and when we were done, he tested the system. No equipment rentals, no service charge, and a really nice guy.

Now my upload speeds are exactly the same as download. Plus, I am the only one on the line. So, when 5pm rolls around, no more watching the circle spin around and around.

I am hoping to continue to have great service and a long relationship with these guys. Sometimes the universe helps you to get to where you need to go. In this case, it was moving on from a company who changed focus from offering personalized human interaction to offering computerized customer service.

If you have any questions about how the internet is doing, feel free to contact us. 

Learning a Musical Instrument

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The Power of  Music Lessons

Have you ever thought about learning a musical instrument? Maybe you’ve always been drawn to the guitar, bass, or drums, but you’ve hesitated to take the plunge. It can be daunting to think about starting something new, especially when it involves learning a skill that requires both physical and mental coordination.

Learning a Musical Instrument

Bringing that old guitar to life

The Fear of the Unknown

Stepping outside of your comfort zone can sometimes be scary. The fear of the unknown or the fear of judgment can hold us back from pursuing our passions. But taking the first step, no matter how small, can be the most rewarding experience of your life. Most of my students are very nervous when they step into my studio. But after a few minutes, we get into conversations about their favorite artists and musical styles. It is amazing how quickly that puts people of all ages at ease. There are almost always artists or bands they introduce me to that I’ve never heard of. And sometimes those artists have songs that end up on repeat in my player.

The Benefits of One-on-One Lessons

One of the best ways to overcome these fears is to start with one-on-one lessons. Having a dedicated instructor who can guide you through the learning process can make all the difference. With personalized attention, you can learn at your own pace and receive tailored feedback.

Breaking Down the Barriers

One of the biggest advantages of one-on-one lessons is the opportunity to learn from an experienced musician. If you’ve never touched an instrument before, you can avoid common misconceptions and bad habits that can develop from learning through online tutorials or self-teaching. Your instructor can teach you proper technique, music theory, and performance skills from the very beginning. This can especially help with music theory concepts and understanding how music works.

Building Confidence, One Note at a Time

As you progress through your lessons, you’ll notice a significant improvement in your skills and confidence. Each small victory, whether it’s learning a new chord or playing a simple melody, will motivate you to keep practicing. The sense of accomplishment you’ll feel is truly indescribable. Learning a musical instrument is a lifelong journey. It’s a skill that you can continue to develop and enjoy for years to come. Whether you want to play for fun, perform in a band, or simply express yourself creatively, music can enrich your life in countless ways.

So, if you’ve been thinking about taking music lessons, I encourage you to take the leap. You might be surprised at how quickly you can learn and how much fun you can have. If you have any questions or comments, feel free to text us.

Fender Champion II

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Fender’s Champion II 

Recently, a student brought in his shiny new Fender Champion II 50-watt amplifier and wanted me to tweak it for him. I have always been a huge Fender fan because they’ve got such amazing sound quality. They have also honored their warranty even when one of my amps went south after almost 3 years. They sent me the upgraded model that I still use today.

The one thing that is really nice is how everything is adjustable using the front knobs. No searching through menu’s and submenu’s to try to figure out how to get the right amp sound. The only downside is that the sounds can’t be saved. It is like the old amps where if you accidentally bump a knob, you may not know it and your sound could be way off.

Fender Champion 2 50 Watt Amp

Fender Champion 2 50 Watt Amp

 

 

Here is a quick synopsis of the amp…

Build and Design

The Champion II 50 has the traditional Fender look with a sturdy construction. Its 12-inch Fender Special Design speaker delivers a robust and clear sound, making it suitable for both practice and small gigs. The control panel is easy to use, featuring a selection of amp voicings, effects, and tone controls. Having a headphone output and USB connectivity adds to its versatility, allowing for silent practice and digital recording.

Sound Quality

One of the standout features of the Champion II 50 is its wide array of amp voicings and effects. From solid clean tones to metal distortions (which could get a little over the top for me), this amp can cover a broad spectrum of musical styles. The built-in effects, including reverb, delay, chorus, and more, further enhance the possibilities. The ability to dial in the classic Fender tones is so nice. I was able to dial up a rich bluesy sound with reverb effects that fit the student’s style in less than 5 minutes.

Performance

The Champion II 50 delivers a surprising amount of power and headroom for its size. It can easily keep up with a drummer in a band setting, and the 12-inch speaker provides a full and rich sound. The amp’s responsiveness to playing dynamics is commendable. This was really nice when using the guitars volume to increase the crunch.

Value for Money

Priced competitively, the Champion II 50 offers excellent value for money especially during black Friday. It provides a comprehensive package of features and performance capabilities that would typically be found in more expensive amps. For players seeking a versatile and affordable amp that can handle a variety of musical styles, the Champion II 50 is a compelling choice.

Conclusion

The Fender Champion II 50 is a well-rounded amp that delivers impressive sound quality, versatility, and value. Its user-friendly interface, wide range of amp voicings and effects, and robust performance make it a great option for players of all levels. Whether you’re practicing at home or performing on stage, the Champion II 50 has the power and flexibility to meet your needs.

If you want to know more about the Fender Champion 2, feel free to shoot us a message. 

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.

Early Trick or Treating

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A Spooky Sweet Surprise: Early Trick-or-Treaters

Halloween is a magical time of year. As a guitar teacher, I’m lucky enough to experience the holiday in a unique way. This year, I was so excited to have a few of my guitar students stop by my studio for some early trick-or-treating.

It was such an honor to see their excited faces and check out their incredible costumes. Knowing that they took the time to visit my studio made my day extra special. It’s a heartwarming reminder of the impact I can have on my students’ lives, both musically and personally.

Early Trick or Treating

Fender Strat

 

As I handed out candy, I couldn’t help but think back on my own Halloweens with my son. I remember how much fun it was going door-to-door with my him in his even “cooler than last year’s” costume. We’d try to decide which is the best way to hit each house, hoping for the as much candy as we could haul. Those days were so much fun!

While I miss those days of trick-or-treating with him, I find new joy in celebrating Halloween with my students. Seeing their enthusiasm for the holiday brings back fond memories and reminds me of the simple pleasures in life.

So, this Halloween, I’m grateful for the early trick-or-treaters who stopped by-their visit made my day. As I continue to teach guitar, I hope to create many more memorable Halloween moments with my students.

Feel free to contact us or leave a comment.

 

Sick and Vacation Time

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Building a Sustainable Music Teaching Career: The Importance of Sick and Vacation Time

As a dedicated music teacher, you’re passionate about sharing your love of music with your students. However, it’s crucial to remember that unexpected events can disrupt even the best-laid plans. Establishing a robust sick and vacation time policy from the very beginning of your teaching career can help tremendously.

Why is this so important?

Many new music teachers, especially those starting out as independent contractors or part-time instructors, often overlook the importance of planning for time off. They may assume that a flexible schedule will allow them to work around any illness or personal commitments. However, this can lead to significant financial strain and stress, especially during unforeseen circumstances like a pandemic.

The Benefits of Proactive Planning

By setting aside specific time for sick and vacation leave, you’re taking a proactive step toward building a sustainable and fulfilling music teaching career. Here are some key benefits:

  1. Financial Security: When you’re not working, you’re not earning. By allocating funds for sick and vacation time, you can ensure a steady income stream, even when you’re unable to teach.
  2. Mental and Physical Health: Taking time off to rest and recharge is crucial for maintaining your overall well-being. It allows you to return to your teaching duties with renewed energy and creativity.
  3. Student Well-being: A healthy and rested teacher is better equipped to provide high-quality instruction. By prioritizing your own needs, you’re indirectly benefiting your students.
  4. Professional Development: Time off can be used to attend workshops, conferences, or simply to reflect on your teaching practices. This ongoing professional development will enhance your skills and keep you motivated.

How Much Time Off Should You Plan For?

Sick and Vacation Time

Vacation in the hills of Colorado

As a general guideline, consider allocating at least two weeks for sick leave and two weeks for vacation time each year. However, the exact amount may vary depending on your individual circumstances and workload.

Tips for Implementing a Sick and Vacation Time Policy

  • Communicate Clearly: Discuss your sick and vacation time policy with your students and parents upfront. Explain how you’ll handle missed lessons and provide alternative learning opportunities.
  • Set Realistic Expectations: Avoid overcommitting yourself. Be mindful of your workload and schedule time for rest and relaxation.
  • Create a Budget: Determine how much money you need to save for sick and vacation time. Consider creating a separate savings account for this purpose.
  • Review and Adjust: Regularly review your policy and make adjustments as needed. Your needs and circumstances may change over time.

By taking these steps, you can establish a solid foundation for a long and successful music teaching career. Remember, prioritizing your own well-being is not selfish; it’s essential for both your professional and personal growth.

For questions about starting a teaching career, feel free to contact us.