Tag Archives: open mike

My Problem with American Idol

By Dan Cloutier I have problems with American Idol and programming like it. I believe that this TV show tells the lie that the average person has no part in modern music. Simply put, American Idol is the search for … Continue reading

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Just Some Guy

Sam Bayer, Guest Blogger I recently participated in a salon. I’m sure, for some of you, I’ve just conjured up an ancient Palmolive commercial, with Madge softening your nails with dish detergent (seriously, how is it that she was never … Continue reading

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Music, Life and the Quality of Bad

D. Michael Loveridge, Guest Blogger I love music. I love listening to it. I love the way notes work, how they line up to form melodies and dance around each other in endless combinations of harmonies and chords; with infinite … Continue reading

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When Changes Come – Picking Up, Moving On

Trisha Knudsen, Guest Blogger So Kids, it’s like this – life is change. We all know it’s true, deny it as we sometimes attempt to do. But, change is an inevitability of the Human Condition. We’re meant to keep learning, … Continue reading

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Teenage Open Mike Newbie (What It’s Really Like)

Ashley Jordan, Guest Blogger Do you remember your first experience at an open mic?   Was playing in front of a group of fellow musicians something that you eagerly anticipated…or something that you totally dreaded but somehow forced yourself to try?  … Continue reading

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Where Are the Teenagers?

Ashley Jordan, Guest Blogger One thing that I’ve observed about the open mics that I’ve attended is that there aren’t many “young people” who are around my age out performing.  In fact, I can count on one hand the number … Continue reading

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Learning How to Play Nice with Others

Trisha Knudsen, Guest Blogger My husband Phil and I have been married for nearly 28 years. All couples that have shared life for such a long time know that without a few essentials, this living together thing is HARD! Of … Continue reading

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Spotlight on Ellen Schmidt: Gifted Songwriter and Longtime Community Mentor and Activist

Ellen Schmidt: songwriter, activist, open mike host, concert presenter, and compassionate supporter of many local musicians throughout eastern Massachusetts. Continue reading

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Sticking To It: Interview with Chris Trapper

More of an interview with Chris Trapper including his persistence in his music career, how he’s come through challenging times, and how his music continues to evolve. Chris shares more on the changes in his music career, his thoughts on the impact of technology on music, and his experience pushing for radio play. And how he’s stuck it out, and been rewarded every time. Continue reading

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The Gift of Community

Ruthann Baler reflects on how much the Gift of Community has given to her. Continue reading

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