Treble's Advocate

Closing the doors... Securing the locks...

2011-03-11T10:10:00.003-05:00

Hi everyone.
When I started this blog, I never anticipated much of an audience. This is why I know it won't be a big deal to make this blog "friends only" if you will.

What you all might know, is I work with SoGoPro, and a new non-profit organization Concert for Hope.

What you don't know, is I've also just started an exciting new journey that will secure me a spot in the world of tv/film/music and it all happened in 4 weeks.

I can't tell you the company. I can't tell you who the people are. I can tell you I'm on a couple projects that require me to work under an A&R rep, and scout for talent... I can tell you I'll be working side by side with people who are writing, filming, and recording... I'll be involved in placing music to film, licensing it, writing contracts, seeing how publishers really make their money.. etc. I'll be involved in projects that are already scripted, backed by someone with financial genius, and to top it all off, one of my better friends from the UML Music Biz dept. is right there with me...

If you know me, you know all I've ever wanted was to have these opportunities at hand. I have an incredible mentor who also happens to be my Publishing/Copyright professor. I scored a 93 on his first, difficult quiz- and he decided I was a good fit for certain work. One of his biggest goals is to mold my friend and I into strong professionals, to make us perfect fits for this chaotic industry.. to craft our negotiation skills, writing skills, to train our legal minds, and to wrap our heads around the insanity that this biz entails.

I can tell you I didn't run away with WB or some massive company like that- but I did join forces with a company that is starting some really incredible stuff that just might take off one day. Excited to feel like I'm finally hands on somewhere- doing something entirely relevant to the last 21 years Ive spent working my ass off. No stupid box office, no tickets, no farm animals... Music, film and creation.
The future looks bright, I need to kick some ass!
<3

Here I am, for my last year in Lowell

2010-09-10T17:25:00.003-04:00

I blinked and I became a Senior at Umass Lowell. They always said college would go by fast and it sure did. I've only been here for a week or so- and already I feel like I never left. I suppose I also feel completely outside of myself. The way I left Lowell is not how it is upon my return.
Both of my best friends are no longer at this school. I do have a people left but it's different. I don't have the same kind of "support system" I suppose. I walk down the hall on the way to Andrew's room only to remember halfway there that he isn't on campus. He's in Chicago.
That's life though right? Friends move away, they change, and there's no way of knowing if things will ever be the same again. I'm terrible with change.
As excited as I am to be back here, I'm also completely stressed out. I have not starting things off the way I wanted to. To be honest, I didn't have a lot of real "Summertime" to relax and freshen up before coming back. A lot of tough stuff went down over the past few months and I'm trying to deal with it but I'm not sure it's going so well.
I feel overwhelmed and freaked out. There are a lot of expectations that come with being a Senior. I was placed in Wind Ensemble this year- for the first time. It's a fantastic group, technically the best in the department. I expected Concert Band again- but I suppose I've grown into a soloist as they've put me on the Oboe 1 part. One piece we're doing is Holst's "Jupiter"... I have a few solos there. Now, I've never been a soloist in a college ensemble before. I truly was comfortable hiding in the flute section- this is going to be a challenge.
Though being put in Wind Ensemble screwed up my work schedule at the Lowell Memorial Auditorium, it turns out I'll be able to keep the job in the box office. I'll be working Friday and Saturday afternoons, and will work most if not all event nights. That's fine. I'll do whatever I need to in order to make ends meet.
I feel bad I have been terrible with the SoGo Obligations I've created. The interviews, the team awards, the article series- it's not even that it's a lot of work for me. I just don't ever have time to sit down at the computer like I used to. Or, to rephrase that- I haven't had the time. Now that I'm back at school I'm certain things will pick up where they left off- but I'm really not the kind of person who's comfortable making commitments/setting up routines etc. etc. only to watch them fall apart and leave folks hanging. Though as far as the Article Series goes, I've yet to receive some articles that I believe are crucial to the August issue... so it's hard to want to proceed without them.
Anyways, things are going to turn around. I just felt like posting since I have 20 minutes left before jumping into the weekend. Lots to say but will be back to write.

Times of Change

2010-06-18T11:07:00.003-04:00

The last few days, I have walked by my uncharged laptop more times than I can count. Usually before and after work I am glued to it.

I've also been quite the tired, emotional individual.

My beautiful baby squirrel died the other day. Peanut, only about 3 months old passed away in his sleep. My family found him in the yard, he was chasing my mother around- desperate for food. We took him in, fed him the proper formula, as he was just a little tiny baby. He took to my mother right away, fell asleep in her lap, and refused to be separated from her. Peanut adopted us, decided we were going to be his family within the first day.

My mom had a fanny pack on frequently in the early days, and carried Peanut around as he slept, wrapped in a towel. It's hard to describe, but the way his face poked out of that fanny pack in his slumber- my heart melted.

He was perfectly healthy. He lived in a large dove cage that sat on 4 legs in our living room. Inside the cage he had a large tree limb, that led up to an elevated bird house I painted for him. He had food and water along the floor of the cage. Plenty of room to jump, climb and hang upside down- which he did with incredible frequency. He was very loving and trusting. It got to the point where we could stick our hands in the cage and he'd climb up the limb just to jump in our palm. He would then hang off your hand and roll onto the towel he had, encouraging us to tickle/scratch his stomach. In just a few weeks my entire family was wrapped around this little life- spending every spare moment playing with the squirrel. My mom loved to take him out, wrap him in a small towel and pet him as we watched tv. Peanut would just stretch out and take all the attention. He wouldn't run crazy- he lounged.

We paid careful attention to his diet, saw that he was active and normal- and were inevitably stunned and heartbroken to discover him dead.

I found him. Every morning before I'd go to work I would play with him. He was adorable. This particular morning he hadn't woken up yet and my mom and grandfather were surprised but figured he was sleeping in. Wrong. Some time in the night he went.

His expression was calm, he clearly wasn't struggling or pained... But we're mystified. We waited a month before naming him because we weren't sure if he would be okay. By this point we never expected him to leave us.

I expect his mommy knew he was ill at birth and abandoned him right away. If that is the case, it makes the whole situation a bit more heartbreaking for me. I'm so glad he found us, and I'm so glad that we loved him. Since the death of my dog, Sky, I have been crossing my fingers for my dear Millie (my 17 year old Black indoor cat/my best friend hah) to stay a long time... And have been terrified at the feeling of loss. Loving Peanut came really easy- and words cannot express the sadness. I expected to have that baby a long long time, and he left so quickly. I know he felt loved and taken care of- what life he did have, he spent it in a place where he was completely adored.

I just miss him.

Amazing what a difference an animal can make.

You should see my back yard these days. I have taken the liberty of asking local donut shops to give me their extra food at the end of each day. Instead of them throwing it out, Dalby Farm will take it because every morning, afternoon and evening I have an entire crew, different shifts if you will, of different furry creatures.

In the morning- Squirrels (Gray and Red), have had up to 9 in one time so far. One of them, who we call Lou- is the cutest. He doesn't walk he crawls, and is a little fatty! We have Chipmunks (seen up to 5 ), tons of birds (Gracklings, one Raven, Cardinals, Blue Jay, Sparrows etc) eat the muffin, bagel and donut bits plus some granola and bird seed. Not to mention my Peacock, Gypsy- the wild bird who spends the whole day roaming around our yard- takes his share of the breakfast. From time to time, a Rat shows up too.. Weird! A couple deers every now and then as well. No possums or skunks yet!

By evening, we have a couple foxes and so far 4 Raccoons come by for their snack. The Raccoons are SO CUTE. They roll their food with their hands and are adorable doing it. There was a Fischer Cat the other night, but we think the 4 raccoons actually managed to get rid of it (not kill, but scare off)

Anyways, after losing Peanut, I've been bonding with the animals that live in my yard. I'm happy to feed them- they don't harm anyone or anything- I am comforted in it. I helped Peanut, I can help more! I watch them every day in my screen porched. Millie, the ol cat- is loving the animals. It keeps her feeling young, I'm sure.

Also on a hunt for a baby guinea pig. I need another baby friend!

Okay. That's me. Not really on target with anything I originally wanted this blog to be for- but I suppose I can break away from time to time. Peanut was worth it :)

LOVE the Animals! This is their planet tooooo!

Wow! (this is long....!!!)

2010-05-31T17:33:00.004-04:00

Isn't it funny when you realize someone who has been all around you for years, could be the very piece of your dream that was missing.
Okay. I'm going into a semi-personal rant here mainly because the person I just came to see in a completely different, refreshing light, is my boyfriend. It is still relevant, however, because he has now acquired a huge, incredibly large task in my big picture.
I have always been a lover of CHARACTERS and their development internally as they struggle with any conflict, every conflict- daily life. I feel characters pain- I empathize with them- and they are but creations, fantasy beings. I can rewatch the same movie several times in a sitting- (usually as I get ready to fall asleep) and just study the growth (if any) in each character I "meet". I never truly understood this about myself, until I realized it could be a great use in story telling. I am usually (mind you, I'm not "bragging" here when I say this) NEVER wrong about someone. My instincts just tell me things upon the first moment I meet them. Body language, expressions, phrases, perspective on any number of subjects- etc. I can usually tell when I'll like or dislike someone right away. It's always been this way and although I hate it at times, I find it now to be very important.
I am not a writer, but I feel, grow and change emotionally as I meet new, fictional identities- real people too. Whether they be in books, TV dramas, short/full length films- or a stranger outside my dorm smoking a cigarette talking to me... I'm attentive to who they are and even who they'll be.
My boyfriend just graduated from College, with a degree in Philosophy. Though he wants to eventually work as a lawyer (he's currently a paralegal at a small firm) he always has been very literary and in love with writing. He's read hundreds of books and takes writing/philosophy to be his number one passion. (Second would have to be music, then films..)
Recently I've been expressing to my boyfriend that my eyes are lenses for a camera. I drive around Scituate and I see scenes, places to shoot dramatic, tragic, life-changing moments. I imagine conflicts of imagined people... I hear beautiful music, I see beautiful moments form before my eyes. But I can't write, nor can I really draw. Accuracy and detail are my problems when it comes to telling stories or painting a tree. I struggle with the issues of translating vision and emotion into words on a paper. It's always been a problem, which is why say in my music making I always improv the lyrics rather than sit down and plan them out. I felt the best way to capture emotion is to, unprepare. I figured that when I had enough money for a decent camera, I would be able to tell my story immediately.
The problem there? I was sent into a period of discouragement. I began to grow tired of the waiting room I was in because of school. I love College, and I'll be sad to see it end, but there is so much that is unnecessary.
In times of stress (which were becoming quite frequent this past semester) I just wanted to be in a world where grades didn't matter, and where I was making more money so I could buy the equipment I need to turn all the thoughts into projects.
It was the moment I said, "I just can't write anything down without ruining it" when Colin's writing ability and familiarity with all kinds of styles in story development- etc. popped into mind. I asked him immediately if he'd be willing to help me write, structure and help me develop stories for film.
We started last night in the car, and worked more today. We already have a decent short film worked out. Character development, a beginning middle and end to the story, several twists and discoveries- and the themes worked out. Our short film will be around 10 to 15 minutes long, 8-9 scenes, with 4 leads (technically 3 but yeah...) and it will be shot in Lowell, MA. Colin has mapped out everything, listening to what I see and helping me sort it out. I'm already proud of it. We know where it will be shot, who we'll cast (more or less), my best friend(a Massachusetts All-State Composition Winner by the way!) at school will be composing an original score- We're very excited.
This will take a long time to see finish. But to have an idea, and see it forming on paper in such a way, to know that my head is a little clearer- and ready to invite even more new ideas. Its incredible. My boyfriend of almost 3 years, was all I needed. A barrier has been removed and I think my mind is really ready to commit, and create. The next barrier will include discovering ways of a) affording the equipment I'd need b)finding time to perfect editing/filming c) actually doing any/all of this!

I believe in independent works. I don't believe I need a massive film company to back this idea, just hardworking and passionate people (who are both far and few between, as well as sometimes what makes the difference between something succeeding or failing).
I have many resources at my disposal right now that are free and it would be a shame to waste them this coming year in Lowell when it's the PERFECT place for the story. I have talented friends and a beautiful, loving man who will help me with the all of the writing elements, I know several friends interested in the production aspects of film... And boy, I want all the experience I can get. Everything from dealing with people, relying on people, and working together to make the vision clear to an audience- I need to experience and deal with. I want to know what I can do with ease, and and with difficulty . I want to pinpoint my weaknesses and turn them into strengths, lessons... Since I can't leave school for another year, I need to start USING school for more than just the degree. I need to create, focus, and achieve- need to obtain the skills I need for MY dream. I need to concentrate on my surroundings, use what I have while I have it, and make it count.
I'm still not clear on what my goal is, but I know I want to create. I must.
More later!
-K

It it okay to be discouraged?

2010-05-04T23:25:00.002-04:00

Oh my.
Most days I feel optimistic about my future- but for some reason, in this very moment- I feel like every dream I have will only amount to the punch line of a really bad joke some day.

I hate not knowing where anything is going. School is perfect. My future? My goals? My passion?

I have to wonder if there really is a point in hoping for a future that is NOT promised to you. I want to work to get there- I want to give my all, my best- my SOUL- into the life I imagine for myself-
But you know what? "You can't always get what you want"- and that really might apply to me.
Nobody knows.

Listening to Music...

2010-04-10T10:33:00.002-04:00

Don't have time for a large post. Will say one thing though- in my Junior and Senior year (when I believed OTH to be at it's peak of greatness...) my entire life revolved around their OST. Iron and Wine, La Rocca, Band of Horses- whoever, whatever was heard on OTH I basically fell in love with. I felt emotionally connected to a lot of the music, because I connected to the characters and the storylines that accompanied it.
With the thought of OTH disappearing after 4 episodes, I turned on some of my old favorites. Now I'm consumed in the old feelings, and memories. I want OTH to stay. It's too special. I want more music and more character development to continue to change my world...

Just wanted to say something. OTH was such a big part of my teen years, it's odd to say- but it's true.
Anyways, I've just started a second job, at the South Shore Music Circus. They're going to have me work every Sat. and Sun. until I get out of school... This means CHAOS not only during the week, but every weekend too...
I won't be on as much, which will affect my many SGP related activities with "schedules"... but we'll make it work.
:)
-K

Weird.

2010-03-22T23:07:00.003-04:00

Found out my best friend in the whole world- who I've been in the same school with for over 10 years (Elementary, Middle + High school... now we're at the same college) - is more than likely officially transferring to a school in Chicago.
My boyfriend of a few years now, is also graduating this Spring.

Next year is looking pretty grim. I have friends, but those two... of all of my loves...

Heartbroken is how I'd define my feelings on this. College is a very specific world to me right now- with specific people who very much so structure that world.
And now it's literally crumbling.

I suppose the only solution is to keep so busy, I won't notice. Jump into endless work.
It's the only likely outcome-
Sorry to be sad. It's been one of those days.

I leave you with a quote that really relates to me... So often in my darkest hours I long to turn back time and enjoy the simplicity of childhood- We just don't know how difficult the time ahead of us is really going to be... We never know. I, at 20, am terrified of the future- family/friend/health-wise. I am not one to flow with the constant change, or to sit comfortably in an unending series of unpredictable, uncontrollable events.
Times are hard for this Lowell girl. Naturally I don't use this space to discuss family/relationship/friendship issues- so I won't get into detail. I will say that it gets really difficult watching your family get older, and in some cases, sicker.
Sometimes it feels like everything else going wrong is a set-up, a joke- because it doesn't seem possible that so much could be so unbelievably painful to stomach.
Okay, I end the rant there. Quote it is:

"Sometimes I wish I were a little kid again, skinned knees are easier to fix than broken hearts." ~Author Unknown

Not the most impressive, but it fits.

Success.

2010-03-12T11:23:00.002-05:00

91 on my Music Theory Midterm. 104 on my Music History Exam...

I finally received my Jury Piece (Piano/Flute)- Howard Hansen's Serenade for Flute Op 5 or 35 haah I can't remember.

I feel so completely adored by most of the faculty here lately- There are at least 3 great professors that I have come to know a lot better. One in particular has invited me and my 2 best friends here at school to join him and his wife for a home cooked meal. This is fabulous news as I cannot wait to learn more just from sitting around enjoying a glass of wine, talking as peers, as musicians and best of all, as friends.
I ADORE this professor. Not in the "eww that's wrong" way- but in the "I idolize you. You don't need to be a huge famous superstar to make me feel like I'm in the presence of greatness" kind of way. He's a remarkable educator and I am currently THRIVING in his class.
I am never this excited. For the FIRST time here in Lowell, I feel like I have a shred of Scituate with me... in the sense that my personality, my grades, my drive- is helping me connect with the people similar to those I had at SHS. My educators are turning into my friends again- That was so important to me once. The first 2 years here didn't really leave me feeling like I'd get to experience that again.
My concert band conductor is fantastic, but he'll never be Ms. Tucker. I think I expected him to be the one who'd change my whole life here- but I'm pretty sure it's Dr. Tim Crain.
If you're here at Lowell, even if you're not a music major- do yourself a favor and take a class with him. Might I suggest his Music in Film course? I'm taking it next year but my RM is in it and only says the most amazing things.
The best part about today? I get to go home and will not need to report back to class or work for a WEEK. I get to relax. I have a lot to look FORWARD to when I get back here, which is rare. Usually I dread the thought of all the work I need to do at this place, but today- on my way out, I say to you- the work pays off. I think it always will pay off.
Just keep it strong, keep motivated, and maintain consistency- Be confident, understand your mistakes, fix them- and LOOK AROUND. People look to celebrities to find their inspiration, or use them to define the kind of success you want to have. Remember that there are people around you every day who are EXTREMELY successful. As long as someone figures out what they want, follows their dream, and is pursuing a life with passion you have every right to want to pin a picture of their face on your wall. Don't- because most likely that's weird.
But take advantage of those around you who have experiences with what YOU love. Learn from them, because most likely your smart self will know how to use that connection, those lessons and the experiences to better your own future. Thats what I'm trying to do.
Hope this wasn't a "cocky" approach to sharing my joy.... you have no idea how rare it is I get this excited for school.
Love love love it.

I have to write a Lied!

2010-03-10T14:11:00.002-05:00

Us Music Majors- we don't just sit around and play music all day. We have to learn how to analyze scores of music from all different eras, we learn how to conduct an ensemble, how to sight sing, notate melodies/harmonies by ear onto paper- and more. Much more. It can be so overwhelming for a music lover such as myself, that we wonder why we elected to make our passion such a JOB.
Do I love being a Music Major? Yes. But if I were to be honest, I'm not sure how many other Music Majors I love. It just seems like there's a huge lack of drive around here. Everyone wants to shine but nobody wants to work for it- Huh?!
The other day, a professor I care for very much was verbally attacked by a student- calling him/her a pompous ass, a jerk- and leading them to believe they are hated here at school.
I find it humorous that people who don't do their work, who sit around and do nothing with their time- find it appropriate to go up to a smart, successful and incredible professor only to call THEM the asshole. It's nerve unlike any other. Where is the respect? And where does that person get off thinking they have any kind of RIGHT to do such a thing? This particular professor has a one year old child (maybe older, I can't rememeber!), a loving family and a long history of incredible travel/education. This professor has put their TIME in to their career- through the good, bad and difficult- and do they sit around and call us assholes? No, because it's not what you do. We're trying to become professional musicians here folks- if you have trouble with a professor you don't name call like you would if you were 8 years old.
Okay. Sorry for the rant. When I received an email from this professor telling me of this event, my heart sank. I hate the thought of someone who deserves a lot of praise and gratitude walking around being forced to think they're failing.
That is definitely not the case- and I'm ready to shout it from the rooftops if need be.
Not sure this entry is of particular interest to anyone other than myself- but I suppose that's the beauty of having a blog nobody reads. Cheers!

Some days are good- Others aren't!

2010-03-01T14:09:00.003-05:00

This will not be a whiny post. I will try, rather, to not make it a whiny post. It must be said that Mondays are the worst day of my week- and it's not because I long for the lazy Sunday to happen all over again- but because Monday means Flute Lesson.
Let it be said that I am a flute player for those who don't know. I can read, sightread, perform, improvise- whatever you want on the flute just like any other flute player. It must also be mentioned that I am truly not here for performance, let alone Flute Performance. I came to this school specifically to have the performance experiences tied to my major's program- that was important. I didn't want to have a college life without Concert Band, or Private Lessons...

Now, for about 7 years I had the exact same flute teacher. Sally Tucker. She was not only my conductor in band throughout my middle and high school years, but took me on as her own student when I was a Sophomore in High School. We are incredible friends. I love her so much. She is an accomplished Flautist, a memorable educator- with many other talents of course- and I consider her to be one of my strongest influences ever- hands down. Our lessons took place at her house and we always had a lot to chat about. Not to mention I'd escape to her room during certain classes I didn't want to be in :)
Even now that I'm away in college we always make time to meet up for dinner. (I have another amazing music teacher (Mr. Richter)at my old high school who had a similar impact- but that's for another day)
Point is, to leave Ms. Tucker's wonderful graces and be thrown into a new school, new faculty who (Freshman year) had no idea who I was, blah blah blah- and above all things- a new flute teacher.
They always say change is good when learning music because you are given the chance to experience music from other musicians with different backgrounds and techniques. I respect this. But to me, learning music is a personal thing. It's always been about fun, passion and musicianship. I always had an A in my Band, Instrumental Workshop, Chorus, whatever- because I was there and learned and allowed myself to grow.
It's not that I dislike my teacher. She is an amazing teacher and has impeccable technique and I value her guidance- I don't know who wouldn't. But I don't strive to be a better flute player. I know I can be better and I still do progress every semester but there is little passion that drives me to practice difficult etudes and uninteresting pieces of music (not always but... occasionally). Often I find myself cramming to feel prepared before the lesson, which automatically means I'll be nervous in the lesson, I'll then screw up more and know that I received a poor mark. (Keep in mind folks, I'm not necessarily ashamed to say I'm a ridiculous perfectionist with my academics. I prepare for everything. I have scholarships to keep and years of hardwork behind me that can't look pointless from screwing up in college. I want A's. I'm not crazy I promise! Just cursed with that perfection crap...)
I was never prepared to be so intensely graded in an environment where you're supposed to feel comfortable learning. For me it's not possible to be comfortable when every mistake is noted on a pad of paper right in front of you to later be used for grading- Am I alone? Maybe I'm just not intense enough?
I'm afraid to mess up. It's not because my teacher will be mean but because she'll detect lack of preparation. At times, that will honestly be the case- but other times, my nerves take over and the whole time I'm standing there thinking "I don't want to do this... I want out of here- WHY AM I MAJORING ON THE FLUTE!?"
Music Business folks- That's what I'm studying. In my spare time I try to learn as much as I can about other pieces of the Entertainment Industry because I want to be useful, resourceful, experienced and valuable. I want the hardwork to pay off here so I can start pursuing full time employment somewhere amazing in a creative world, contributing to the amazing industry of Entertainment. It's so fun.
I will close this entry by saying that Aural Skills 4- getting into Modal Borrowing, Scalar Variants etc.- and not loving it. Exam today nearly killed me and my confidence in Solfege. (Pssst I've never had confidence in Solfege- so useless!)
Not too whiny eh?

"Accept Me" - rough version of a new song

2010-02-19T20:52:00.006-05:00

It's been a while since Ive posted any of my recent music.
This is a ROUGH version of a new song "Accept Me"- My friend Matt, a piano major, is going to make the final version with me. I can get away from the same old loops and stuff. I can't wait to get more friends using their talents on my recordings instead of Garageband.
Soon!
:)
In the meantime- harmonies.
Bliss.
Would love feedback if you have anything to say!
Remember, ROUGH!

Rod and Abe

2010-02-19T14:21:00.002-05:00

Rod and Abe- the two main characters to my soon-to-be named, filmed and edited short film.

It doesn't have a name- nothing seems to fit it quite right. I've never done this before so I'm not exactly sure when/how the title to a work like this comes to be. In time, in time.

So yes. The Campus Movie Fest Competition- it's the "worlds" largest film festival. They come to different colleges all around the nation for a week to hand out free equipment. In my case I'll be able to use a $1,000 Samsung HD Camera, all the sound equip. that goes with it, a phone and an Apple Macbook with over a thousand songs I can use (pre-licensed).
However, I won't be needing that music because I have one of my best friends from school composing original music. He wants to be a composer for film, and I want to be a part of the Entertainment industry (not sure where exactly but hey, it's a work in progress). I figure there's no harm done in building a team when I have only a week to film everything I need.
Granted, it's a 5 minute long movie- not the hardest of tasks except for the part about making it a worthwhile 5 minutes.
I'm trying to be as prepared as possible. With a script/screenplay, character backstories, plot outline, and shooting locations just about figured out, I still have a lot of work to do before March 2nd- the day I get the equpiment, and the day my ONE WEEK starts!

I'm new at this but still, I don't want it to be bad!

In case you're wondering, it's going to be about 2 music majors.

In the brainstorming process, I referred to the two main characters as Prodigy and Wannabe- after fiddling around with the letters (after finishing their backstories)- I decided Rod (Prodigy) and Abe (Wannabe) would work just fine.
These two music majors are drastically different. Rod is a (get ready..) Prodigy of his generation. He was raised in an incredibly up-tight household, and is absolutely terrified of germs. He is also convinced he could be discovered at precisely any moment- this is why you'll never see him wearing anything but a black suit and tie.
If you were to walk into Rod's room, you'd be alarmed to see absolutely everything covered in plastic. Everything.
All things aside, he is perfect for Music School by any professional musicians standards.

It's another story with Abe. He's never truly had a passion for music, but the death of his father left him feeling haunted. Abe's father spent his entire life in Music Education and wanted nothing more than for his son to enjoy it as much as he. It wasn't until after his fathers passing Abe realized he needed to do right by his father and give music a real shot. With nearly no knowledge of how to read music, sight sing, or play an instrument- Abe has a rough road ahead at Music School.

This short film will take you inside the life of two music majors. Most think they sit around all day and do nothing but play music- I can say first hand, they don't. Some people belong there, and unfortunately, others don't.
This film aims to poke fun at the traumatic yet realistic aspects of pursuing music. Beyond the workload and the intimidating staff, this particular music building is full of unfriendly, competitive peers- with a few exceptions.
Follow Rod and Abe on their first and possibly last day of College as a Music Major...

Will post when it's done!

New Semester at UML

2010-01-27T14:06:00.002-05:00

Today I'm posting from my usual spot, my desk at work. While my other friends enjoyed a whole month off, I was commuting about an hour and a half every couple days (if not every day) to work. I like my job, but here I am, 2nd day into a new semester of new classes, and I feel like I didn't get much rest. I was looking forward to regaining some of the energy I spent last semester. I don't know that I'm entering into this term with as much enthusiasm, I blame winter break.
I'm not complaining, though it may sound that way. I just really miss home lately. I'm comforted by the familar and I enjoy my alone time. While I'm perfectly accustomed to dorm life, I'm not thrilled to be surrounded by a bunch of people I, quite frankly, would rather not be around. They lead different lives than I do. They like to blast loud music when I'm trying to fall asleep.
I like isolation to a certain degree, if not love it.

A cool class I'm taking this semester is Promo and Merchandising. My professor, Pete Lally, is actually the one who helped me get the job at the Lowell Memorial Auditorium, as he's the General Manager here. It's cool to use your resources. It's funny to hear the reactions of fellow music biz students who never thought to actually ask their professors to help them get jobs relevant in their studies. I don't want any more irrelevant jobs. I don't. I'm almost 21 and I want every experience to be something that will increase my knowledge, not dumb me down. I've served my time in food service, and "retail" if you will- now I'm moving on to greener pastures, or so I hope.
I'm excited to see what Pete's class will bring. I feel very in tune with marketing- often for fun I'll analyze an artist's career moves and identify the marketing ploys involved. In class on Tuesday we discussed a cliche "Taylor Swift" fan. If I had my notebook here at work I'd write out some of the different characteristics this "person" has, maybe later. Point is, it got me thinking- how to companies classify me? How do companies try to sell their products to me? I am pretty good at seeing through a lame advertisement, but not always.
When I was younger, I was just your typical "teeny bopper". I know exactly how one would have classified me back then- I think for fun I'll write out what companies would want to know about me to make their marketing strategies easier.
I'll post again soon. For now, I'm just counting down the minutes until I can go back to my dorm. Right now, I'm hours and hours away from that happy time. I just want to rest.

Turning over a new leaf

2010-01-05T11:21:00.002-05:00

It's entertaining to think about everyone with their new year resolutions. I have goals for 2010, but I'm not going to lose my mind should they fall through or be postponed until 2011. I've mentioned before that I consider this time in college to be something of a "waiting room". I am virtually stuck in school. Granted, I could drop out, but I have absolutely no interest in doing that. I love that I can have an education, I just don't love that I can't start my "career" at the same time. I feel full of life... All I want is to jump out into the world
I have a friend who's going through a little trouble with High School. She's almost done with her Junior year and she just cannot find the drive to get herself out of bed to go anymore. This is a heartbreaking story as she is far from a lazy girl. She has a brilliant mind, a heart of gold and a need to do right by herself. I've been trying to be there for her and help her sort out the options. Change is needed. She deserves it. In my efforts to help her I've been forced into reflecting upon my own high school experience. I don't get too personal on this blog for the most part but I will say I learned a lot about people in those years.
I was heavily involved in the music department. I often was the girl who would sign out to the bathroom in the middle of Chemistry to really just go hang out in the Chorus room. I was an A student and graduated 13th in my class of over 200 kids- so it didn't really matter. I had a large group of friends who kept me very busy on the weekends. I wasn't "popular"... I was just one of several in the large group of misfits that somehow accumulated over the time spent in that building. While the majority of my friends were musical, there were a handful who definitely weren't. Some of us were athletes, others into drama, art- etc... There was enough personality and variety in our group to explain the 30+ people we invited to things.
Oh it sounds so glamorous doesn't it? It wasn't! With our "group" being so large, it was difficult to know where you stood with folks. To this day I still don't know how some of those people viewed me. We'd be at all the same gatherings, mall outings etc. and I'd still hardly know them. Don't even get me started on the romance in that group. Couples were on and off day by day. You just never know who was with who... Ever.
Not to mention in the blink of an eye you find out you're in the middle of a huge fight with one half of the group over something you didn't even realize was happening- and bam. You can plan on having a terrible week at school and being left out of any "events" happening that weekend.
This group of friends I had, we didn't drink, smoke or anything. Our parties consisted of loud music, lights and dancing. There were rules against sitting while the music was on. Friday nights we'd dance from 6pm-12am and loved it. I had some great times, saw a lot of great movies, and would like to say I learned a lot about myself.
Looking back at my situation in high school, and to compare it to college, I've learned that I could not be who I was then, today. (Terrible sentence)
I didn't really like myself back then. I cared way too much about what others thought, I definitely put myself and my needs last- and even opened my mouth in too many situations. By that I mean I was involved in a lot of people's personal issues with others- My intent was to help but often (thanks to high school) words were twisted and someone benefitted off of my efforts- Screwing me in the process... lovely!
So I look at my life today. At school, I spend a lot of time by myself or with my roommate/band mates. (My boyfriend and his brother are also at my college and they're constantly around as well). But for the most part I'm not out partying or trying to meet new people. When I come home to Scituate, it's the same. I'll meet up with my best friends when they're around and hang out with my cat. I don't want to say I'm a loner, because I'm happy to be social- I suppose the way to describe me would be passive to drama. I didn't get into much detail but I can tell you I'm over the need to keep any sort of social ranking among my peers. I don't care how I'm seen. I know that at the end of the day my life is what I want it to be, that it includes the people I actually care about (vice versa)- and that I make myself my number one priority.
I realize this entry is out of the blue and generally does not fit with my posting habits. This is my first entry of 2010- and I wanted to start off the decade by declaring my independence from social unhappiness. I haven't had to be miserable by my social stance in years and I don't want you to be either. Take a look around at your life and those who surround you. Simplify the troubles by making sure you're around people who genuinely care about you. Trust me, you deserve to have real friends.
Life is what you make of it- Be strong and good luck with 2010...

Starting the new year off SoGoPro Style

2009-12-28T11:31:00.003-05:00

Afternoon folks-

I'm at work with hours to go before I can leave. I figured it was a perfect time to write an update- This just may be the last entry I get in before 2010, so let's see if I can make it worthwhile.
The past year has been incredible. I don't think I've accomplished a whole lot but I know that I've learned a lot about myself and what I want with my future.
I think I'll always remember 2009 as the year I joined the SoGoPro Community. Without being dramatic, SGP literally changed my life. After getting to know a lot of the folks I realized this was an opportunity of a lifetime to take full advantage of. I'm not sure if I believe in fate, but I do know that Hilarie Burton has been present in my life ever since I was 12.
For 8 years somehow she has been a part of my life. I've watched her become what she is today, from a distance of course- but still. I always had this feeling about her, that she was a go-getter, a "do-er". I'm the same way. I'm motivated, I mean business, and I refuse to settle. I want to learn, grow, adapt, and create. I want so much for my life, but even more, I want to make someone feel the way I do about Entertainment. I want to be the reason someone pursues their dream full speed. SoGoPro set my world on fire and trust me, I couldn't be more grateful. Not that I didn't know myself before, but I feel like for the first time in my entire life I have direction, a goal.
Did I mention that receiving the SGP t-shirt signed by Hilarie Burton was my favorite gift this year? It was the last present I opened and my heart stopped. I couldn't believe how happy a shirt made me- but what does that tell you about my love for SoGoPro??

I graduate college next year. The next chapter of my life is not too far away, I'm full of anticipation and energy. I don't know where I'm headed but I have faith that my passion will help me find my place.
In 2010, I plan on working with imovie a lot. I've had a lot of ideas lately, and now I've got a brand new camera to help me lay some of them out. I plan on sharing projects on this blog- and will be looking for constructive criticism. I want to engage myself in more story telling. I've worked in some funky places, have had some ridiculous relationships, and even lead the life of a farmer- sort of. I think I have a few stories in me to share with you, I'd like nothing better than to give it a shot. I believe in myself and I believe in my passion... I can only hope that as a result there is a place for me in this world to leave my mark.
In the meantime, I'll continue on with my shift here at the Lowell Memorial Auditorium and hope that 6pm comes sooner than later.
2009 has been alright. Definitely better than 2007-2008... but hopefully not as good as 2010 will be :) Here's to a new decade!

It's been a while...

2009-12-20T13:43:00.002-05:00

Posts here on Treble's Advocate have been scarce these past few weeks- I apologize to myself. I like this blog, after all. Often I just don't feel I have too much to write about.
The past few weeks have consisted of Final exams, Gigs, recording, and helping out at the Farm. I've been leaving Lowell over the weekends a lot to be in Scituate. I really love my home in the wintertime. My mother decorates it so beautifully. I'll have to find a camera somewhere and post some pictures.
I'm almost done with my first semester of Junior year. I have my Jury tomorrow at 1pm and then I get to go home for break. Well, sort of. You see, as I've mentioned in the past, I work at the Lowell Memorial Auditorium- a concert venue. There are shows all throughout January, in fact it's one of our busiest months. This means I'll be driving to and from Lowell every shift I work over the next 4 weeks. On a good day, that drive is about an hour. On a bad day, well let's just say it could be a lot longer.
My shifts will start at 10am and I'll work til 6pm... It'll be a long day combined with the commute.
It's alright though, I'll be making money and will ensure my loyalty to this job. It's a pain but I have a job in the Music Business. Kind of. I mean, I sell tickets to concerts... Not exactly glamorous but you have to start somewhere! When I commit, I'm committed- I'll make it somehow, someday.
:)
I'm a little nervous for my Jury tomorrow. I'm performing John Rutter's Suite Antique for Flute and Piano. I will be performing 3 movements- The only one I'm concerned about is the Waltz. The C section is very fast and has difficult rhythm- especially when playing with the Piano part. I just don't want to embarass myself- Cross your fingers for me!

One Tree Hill

2009-11-18T12:54:00.003-05:00

I have to say that this week's episode of One Tree Hill was phenomenal. I really can't reiterate enough how incredible Mark Schwann and co. is. I was one of those folks who thought Peyton and Lucas' absence would ruin the show... While I do think it's weird without them, I must say that the direction of the characters left has been shocking, addicting, and emotionally draining!

I want to write so so much more, but really the only idea I need to seriously convey right now is my undying love for OTH, Wilmington, and of course SGP.

Folks, Wilmington is an amazing place full of incredible talent.

Wohoo for entertainment. How can you not love it?

SOGOPRO STREET TEAM BLOG

2009-11-03T11:39:00.001-05:00

Hello friends:

As you might be able to tell by now, I try to encourage folks to join in and take advantage of this fantastic community SGP has built. Well- just in case you feel like you haven't expressed enough love, there's a new place that can help you do just that.
That's right! The new SoGoPro Street Team Blog has been created just for you! Finally an open format for SGP Supporters to post to and continue to share their creations inspired by Sogopro!
We all know to look for The Hellick's favorite fan submissions on the main page, but imagine a Street Team Headquarters where praises are posted daily by your friends- where cool links, new artwork, short stories, music suggestions, whatever are continuously shared for you, by you?
You know you want in, but space is limited! I can have up to 100 contributing authors to this blog! Get in touch with me and we'll make it happen...
Get your spot now... show the world in your own words just what SGP means to you!

http://www.sogoprostreet.blogspot.com

Nick Gray from SoGoPro Is Pretty Great...

2009-10-21T11:27:00.004-04:00

...Because he answers fan questions. Like mine! Sort of like when Hilarie answered a couple of my questions that other time...
Hilarie Addresses My Existence!

Nick answers a few folks questions... I'm happy to be one of them!

Have you checked out SoGoPro yet??? Are you a member?

Foreigner tonight at the Lowell Memorial Auditorium

2009-10-17T14:56:00.003-04:00

From Foreigner's Wikipedia page:

Foreigner is an English rock band formed in New York City in 1976 by veteran English musicians Mick Jones, ex-King Crimson member Ian McDonald, and American vocalist Lou Gramm (Louis Grammatico). Foreigner has sold more than 50 million albums worldwide [1] (including over 37.5 million in the United States alone).

Top hits:
1. Feels Like the First Time
2. Cold As Ice
3. Long, Long Way From Home
4. Headknocker
5. Hot Blooded
6. Double Vision
7. Blue Morning, Blue Day
8. Dirty White Boy
9. Head Games
10. Women
11. Girl on the Moon
12. Urgent
13. Waiting for a Girl Like You
14. Juke Box Hero
15. I Want to Know What Love Is
16. That Was Yesterday
17. Heart Turns to Stone
19. Say You Will
20. Soul Doctor

So this is my night tonight, contributing to Foreigner's show here at the Lowell Memorial Auditorium by selling tickets to their loyal fans who, after all these years, will still pay anywhere from $127.00 to $39.75 to see them. I've always been around "show biz" I guess- but now I'm stepping into a slightly different realm. Usually I'm on the same side as the man running the show- now I'm one of several little people helping a lot of people get in the door. It's cool to be exposed another of the many aspects of show business. Some people may think that selling tickets is a job for anybody- and while they're right, I truly take this to heart.
I have been one of those people, sitting on Ticketmaster at 9:59am waiting for Nsync tickets to go on sale at 10 so I can get the best seat possible. I've been that person- calling Ticketmaster to see what's left of the Coldplay tour coming through Boston.

Tickets may just be expensive pieces of paper, but each and every one of you knows that it's an essential step to seeing a performer you care about. I may be at the bottom of the food chain, but without talking to me, you won't be able to take your seat and watch the lights fade on your favorite performer.

I'm a music business major. This means I not only care about the business side of the music industry but it means I care about the music too. I care about the people that want something to do with the music. I care about their experiences, I care about being a part of their experience. I'm in college and I'm starting my life. I'm working my way up. I'm selling you tickets to Foreigner.

Ya gotta start somewhere.

I told you to download some of my random, free music, right?

I meant it!

Free MP3's from yours truly available on last.fm

2009-10-16T23:48:00.003-04:00

Everyone knows I like to record my random stuff for fun- figured I'd get some of it up online and available for anybody and everybody. A few tracks aren't available to download but all are up in full length for your listening pleasure or displeasure.. depending!

SGP Street Team Last.fm!

2009-10-12T00:07:00.002-04:00

http://www.last.fm/group/SoGoPro+Street+Team

Come on over!

Resisting The Resistence- I can't do it!

2009-10-07T10:56:00.004-04:00

I am in Muse mode. No question about it.

In high school, I heard about Muse- and went out to F.Y.E. to buy "Absolution". I think that album secured my love for this group in the first listen. Of course I pursued most of their other albums following that.
Now, my junior year in college Muse releases "The Resistence". While I know it's not their strongest album to date, I absolutely love it. I can't stop listening to it! I'm so glad there are albums like this that are still out there, being created!
In my opinion, there aren't too many artists that blow me away with every single track, and I'm sure a lot of people can relate to that. Lady Gaga, for example, one of the hottest acts of the past year, couldn't even hold me impressed the whole album through. (I'm sorry- but "Again & Again" and "Brown Eyes" were too very, very disappointing tracks on that album- I don't think she should venture down Ballad Lane unless they're as kicking as her dance tracks....)

Now, Muse didn't score an A+ on the whole album- but I can't stop thinking about the Exogenesis Symphony (Tracks 9,10,11). It's BEAUTIFUL. I could listen to it over and over again if I wanted, but luckily there are other tracks worth the attention too- so I get to switch it up a little bit.
Something about Muse I feel they've always gotten right? HARMONIES, sense of originality, ability to grow from various genres of music, and unavoidable musicianship. If you're looking for bland, repetitive music, don't listen to Muse. They're always trying to expand.
Something that definitely surprised me on the new Muse record, was the track "Undisclosed Desires". As soon as it came on, I was CONVINCED that I was listening to Depeche Mode. I couldn't believe the similarity of the sound between this track, and Depeche Mode's "Strangelove". I wanted to believe they worked together on it- but, no. They didn't. The inspiration must have been there though, right? Give it a listen and get back to me.
Also, Muse went in a Queen-like direction with their song "United States of Eurasia". You can't miss it. Again, I'm not sure how intentional it was, but I'll just go on and assume they were paying tribute to one of the many sounds that came before.
Check out the new Muse album. If you hate it, tell me why! If you love it- maybe your reasons differ than mine- meaning you should share them!
You can also just not respond, that's fine too... as long as you check out the album :)

And just another note- It's Wednesday! Do you know what that means?
SOGOPRO PODCAST 13 is up and ready for you to listen...
GO

Want a free Bibis Track?

2009-09-28T09:20:00.003-04:00

Those who have stumbled upon my blog time and again know that I advocate the artist, Bibis Ellison. Well, the wonderful Sogopro.com gave out a freebie the other day that I forgot to mention here!
The song, "Foxes", a Bibis original, has made it's way onto Sogopro and is available for anyone and everyone to download. I ask you now, what are you waiting for?!

http://sogopro.com/node/919 Hit up Nick's vlog, and from there you can find the link ("This is what greatness sounds like") that will give you your very own BIBIS track.

Get your hands on this, and get ready for more more more. She's hot stuff that Bibis. I don't know about you, but I can safely say it's one of my favs already.

ENJOY!
(don't forget her myspace, http://www.myspace.com/bibisellison )

Opportunities

2009-09-28T09:18:00.001-04:00

I think it's time for all resources to be utilized. It seems like talent all around me is sitting in a theoretical waiting room. My friends have so many abilities but they don't put most of them into productive use. What are we waiting for?

The idea of the "future", I believe, has people my age (18-21) believing that they have all the time in the world to pursue their goals. It's a message that says: "Hey- you don't need to be proactive right now! The future is later! This is now! Might as well sit around and wait for something to come to you! Why chase after dreams? The future will bring them to you!"
Recently I've come to understand that this mentality is destructive. I don't believe that a college degree means you'll have everything you ever wanted. I do believe that work, effort and time are all factors in reaching success.
For example, I want to be involved in the Movie/Music/TV industry somehow, someway. In order to expect that to happen, I first need to know what exactly it is I want to accomplish. This requires a lot of thought. I also need to know what the industry itself is about. Once I have a good grasp on what I want- I should start configuring what exactly I need to do to make that happen. You see, I'm not necessarily catering to myself, because I'm also keeping in mind that this particular industry is ever-changing and could at any point make my goals absolutely impossible. Knowledge of your wants, and staying aware of the needs of the industry you want to pursue, are key.
Okay- so I have my goals set, I know the industry. I also know that I'm in college for 2 more years, which will definitely prevent me from applying for a position at a production company, or a record label. Instead of saying, "In 2 years, I can do that! I'm done for now, I guess..."- I prefer to continue my process. You see, I have 2 years to prepare myself for whatever it is I will be trying to obtain when I step out of UML. While this is a discouraging situation in some respects, it's also a blessing. I have the opportunity to make sure I know exactly where I'm going so I (hopefully) won't be lost when I'm immersed in this world.
There is no time to waste.
I view these next couple years as my time to make my mark. To test myself and to see what I can create with my own two hands. I believe I have the ability to make a change in this world, to contribute to a passion I share with thousands and thousands of people... and I believe I can start doing that now.

Sogopro Podcast Wednesday....

2009-09-16T11:12:00.003-04:00

Just a friendly reminder to you all to check out the SGP Podcast! You too can hear more about SGP's graphic novel if you click!
http://sogopro.com/node/872

In other news- the first few weeks of school have been going great. I secured a part time job at the Lowell Memorial Auditorium, working in the box office. Sounds glamorous right? Well- if you ask me, it's somewhat relevant experience considering tickets are very much so apart of the show. After all, could you just walk in to Bill Cosby? No! You'd need to see me and purchase your right to be there... See? Hmmm.
I've also joined Flute Choir. It's a brand new ensemble that a grad student started up this year. I get to play the Alto Flute in one of the pieces we're playing. Very cool! My concert band seat also improved this year... Lessons started out strong- and Aural Skills leaves me feeling pretty confident.
My Computers in Music Business course is certainly an easy A. The first few weeks we've been concentrating on Word. Our projects have been "Press Releases" for our own fake companies- so we all get to splash some creativity in there. Soon we'll master Excel (I hope you note the sarcasm- as I'm pretty sure most of us all know how to use Microsoft Office by our Junior year in College...) I'm most looking forward to the Graphic/Web design stuff we'll be getting to a little later on this semester.
All and all- not a bad start to a new year. Time management is key! Like right now, for instance- I'm going to sign off and start preparing for my Music History quiz that takes place at 8am tomorrow morning. Cooool.
More on the way. In the meantime, CHECK OUT SOGOPRO!

BIBIS: "Lady of Nobody"

2009-09-03T09:12:00.003-04:00

Thank you Nick Gray (SGP) for sort of recording this Bibis clip which I will post below!

I hope you are all falling in love with her... This is only the beginning folks!
Just like the last video, Bibis is performing with her sister, Katie Ellison.

Listen and love folks!
It's Bibis time!

Available here and on SoGoPro... "Bibis Sings, We Listen"

2009-08-31T21:17:00.004-04:00

Bibis performs a rare cover, "iamundernodisguse" by School of Seven Bells.
If you haven't checked out Bibis yet, WHAT ARE YOU WAITING FOR?

A F.U.C.T.ed Up End of Summer Post

2009-08-26T14:50:00.005-04:00

The next few months will be full of Treble's Advocate updates/improvements. As I've mentioned before, posting isn't as easy while I'm at home. It's a different pace in Scituate than it is in Lowell. I anticipate a lot of fun entries to come both here and on Treble Tied.

In other news, I turn 20 on Friday. Odd to reflect on my teenage life- and to find that I, in those years, nearly lived 4 different lives. Totally different groups of friends, who are now scattered around the country/world, different bands, varying life experiences that make me feel like I'm about to turn 50 not 20.

As much as I look forward to my Junior year at UML, I can't help but feel like I don't want to leave home right now. I just lost my dog, Sky- about a week ago, August 17th to be exact. 13 years ago on that same date, we had brought her to Dalby Farm from the Brockton Dog Pound. We couldn't believe she passed away on that day. Her birthday was March 17th. Next time I play Lottery, I'll have 13 and 17 in there somewhere... Sky is good luck, after all.
So, with losing Sky- I've been even more possessive of my beautiful black cat, Millie. She too, is getting old- and I always dread leaving her behind when I go off to school. Whenever I'm in the house, she's not far away. I know it'll be confusing for her yet again when I run off to Lowell... I hate that feeling.
I also feel more and more lately, that I can't stand having to wait to finish college before I can really "accomplish" anything. The Music/Film Industry is always changing and I want to join the spin now! Not later!
I've been doing a lot of talking with Rik Tinory- (Produced various albums, one of them being Aerosmith's "Pump") and he's determined to help me find my way in a more, direct manner, shall I say? He knows a lot about the business and a lot of people in the business. Somehow, he adores me and tells my grandfather often how much he wants to help me succeed.
Networking is key, folks.
Even just talking to Rik, hearing about his experiences through all these years- I feel overwhelmed with excitement. I want to surf the tide of tunes too, be a part of this changing industry, a contributing piece of this delicate, intricate, melodic world...
For now, books and dreams. Text and ambition. Treble's Advocate and Treble Tied.
Get to know me- maybe we can help each other, and both get somewhere.
Up for it?
HAVE YOU WATCHED F.U.C.T. YET?
WEBISODE 1 NOW UP FOR YOUR VIEWING PLEASURE
http://sogopro.com/fuct000
Get F.u.c.t.

Farm Rain

2009-08-07T10:01:00.005-04:00

It's been a little while since I've shared an original song with you all. This one is called "Farm Rain".

I put it together in about 45 minutes. 2 weeks ago, during my mom's summer farm camp was happening here at Dalby Farm, I ran upstairs in efforts to escape the 30 children to unlease some tension. You see, it had been raining and that meant that instead of utilizing the acres of land we have, we were all stuck in one room. It was crowded, and I was getting into a bad mood.

Please forgive the lyrics as they were made up on the spot. Hope you find the rest somewhat entertaining :)

SGP Podcast #4

2009-08-05T19:52:00.002-04:00

If you haven't started listening to the SGP podcasts, be sure to! There's something for everyone....

Sorry for the lame update. Work has, as usual been consuming my life.

Can't wait for school to start so I can get some real work done that actually is relevant aka something, ANYTHING music/film related.

I want to write, share, learn, and grow with this industry more than words can express.

PLEASE get with SGP. If you don't you'll regret it!

Speculating is F.U.C.T.

2009-08-03T15:59:00.003-04:00

(http://www.sogopro.com/fuct)

Okay folks- I've come up with something that has the potential to be fun. I think it would be really cool if we all speculated on what we think SGP's Friendship Union Community Theatre will be like. We can all post predictions of character traits, plot direction... All that is FUCT.

If this catches on, we just may find ourselves here predicting every new webisode.

I can't think of a better way to start getting ready for Friendship Union Community Theatre- We can show our support and see how our minds match up with Nick and the gang.

Most accurate predictions and most inaccurate will be featured on here, and inevitably discussed among our crowd in the chat!

Let's hear it!
Treble's Advocate is, after all, totally FUCT.

We're all "Local" somewhere, right?

2009-07-28T11:29:00.003-04:00

I literally invite you into my house- but I don't have to, right? I post up pictures of things and people that matter to me somehow. There is always a purpose. I started thinking today about the internet and how many people there are just like me trying to put themselves onto a page, in hopes of any one person out there finding it... There is a need to search for identity for most people, or at least, most people I know. I myself, am at times satisfied to know that someone out there knows nearly nothing about me except for what I chose to share. I've become aware that most if not all people I have grown up with, or, have spent impossible amounts of time living/seeing certain people, have a greater context of my personality than Treble's Advocate readers will. At times this situation causes me, at least, a great deal of struggle to overcome prior expectations made through prior behavior. This blog is dedicated to my passion for music and the entertainment industry. I derive the most satisfaction from listening to music, creating music, watching films, learning more and more about the music industry- I could go on forever about this stuff. It's what I wake up thinking about- I'm at my lame job and dream of being successful- feeling completely motivated but entirely trapped. Time is tricky. While I sit here wanting to wish away the next few years, I know they're precious. I don't want to waste this time, I just know that the way I want to spend it, is not at all possible. I am a student. That has to be my full time job. I want to be in the music business, whether it be linked to TV/Film or not, I am so driven.
I've been spending time working at the Dalby Farm Summer Experience program these past few weeks. It's nice to see my mother doing something so powerful and inspirational- fun too, of course... I see she enjoys it. I wish my enthusiasm were a bit higher though, as I find myself quite impatient with the kids today. I'd rather sit on Garageband, or chat on SGP. Instead, I broke away to blog for a few moments while I mentally prepare myself for the next 5 hours. I'll be watching either 9 or 12 kids *it's undetermined at this time. figures* swim in my pool, hoping none of them are stupid enough to crack their heads open on the concrete.
Talk about horror.

Should you stumble here by accident, and you know nothing or take nothing out of the experience of reading this, do me a single favor and go to SoGoPro.com if you haven't. They set my passion on fire when I found them in March...

Runaway Red Wagon: "Letter 14" Master

2009-07-25T13:06:00.003-04:00

Technically this track is supposed to be "off the shelves" at the moment- as it's supposed to be released on an upcoming Compilation CD in Lowell, MA- but the traffic here isn't overwhelming enough to make a big difference- for now at least.

The song was written by Elisabeth Hodge- it was the first song our group learned together. It features an Accordion (played by Laura Bailey).

Enjoy!

Gather 'round the table: It's Bibis Time

2009-07-23T10:06:00.007-04:00

http://www.myspace.com/BibisEllison
http://www.sogopro.com/streetteam-music

You will see this name a whole lot- not just because I personally write it either. Right now, there may not be a ton of stuff online that you can purchase from Bibis, but there's a ton of ways you can show your support! The anticipation is building- and as miserable as it can sometimes feel, I think you still want to be in on it.
You all have a chance to be in the know about SGP's very own muse. Bibis is an outstanding performer- and I don't want you to miss out.
Information on her upcoming album is coming out little by little...

Be apart of the Bibis spirit! If you find yourself in Wilmington, NC or anywhere near there- GO SEE HER.
She blows everyone out of the water- Lady Gaga, Katie Perry and all those ladies in our mainstream scene are good and all but they aren't Bibis. There is only one, after all.
I write this entry before hearing myself very many orginial songs of hers- but from what I have heard and what I have seen with my two eyes... I can give this gal 10 stars and be on my merry way.
Hope you check her out- don't worry though, I'll keep reminding you...

Still Posting NC Picture Entries... #3

2009-07-22T22:17:00.005-04:00

My journey to Wilmington was as obvious an emotional journey as it was a five hour drive from Rodanthe. This magical place where beautiful films have been made, so far and so away from my home in Scituate- was all of a sudden a matter of minutes away... I was overwhelmed with excitement and anxiety- I worried of disappointment, that my expectations were through the roof. It felt as if my entire dream relied on my experience in this place.
With all of this anxious energy in my system during the 5 hour drive, I concentrated on surrounding landscapes. I was taking in all of North Carolina. In so many ways I favored the distance and the need to travel to and fro ILM in a long grueling car ride- because I can say I got to know North Carolina a little bit. It's quite different then Scituate, and Lowell- and even Boston... A refreshing contrast, really.
Here are a few shots for now that shall complete NC Pic Entry #3

(A little too close to Final Destination for my liking, I made Colin wait for me to snap the pic before getting far away...)

Changing a few things around

2009-07-22T21:01:00.001-04:00

Trust me, it was no mystery to me that Treble was spelled wrong for a while I just didn't have time to fix it up and make it right. Trebel's Advocate I am not, after all- but Treble's Advocate :)

Now, I have changed the Blogspot address to it's proper spelling, http://www.treblesadvocate.blogspot.com

I have also changed the header to something a bit brighter- ha ha.

Okay, enough bad humor. More positive changes and accessible entries to come in the future

SoGoPro Podcast!

2009-07-18T17:03:00.000-04:00

Hey all, just a quick little note to you to make sure you've heard the SGP Podcast now available on SoGoPro.com or on itunes! You can subscribe to their Podcast and have each one accessible on your itunes every Wednesday when they're launched!

You won't be sorry- definitely get in on the SGP greatness that is out there.

And on another short note, posts will be quite infrequent these few months (being July and August). When I return to school my online life will spruce itself up a bit and my posts will be worth reading... Also, my presence in the SGP chat will return to it's old consistency. I've been pretty lame lately- but work literally dominates my life these days. The days are over before they seem to begin- I just wish it was all leading up to something.
Working at Tedeschi's certainly will not help me accomplish my dream. 30 hours a week standing behind a register selling people cigarettes, alcohol, condoms, candy and ice- is not securing me a job in the Music/TV or Film industry.
I have to have faith that my ability to work; my ability to endure all the crap and suffering one experiences from a job they just cannot stand, will strengthen the possibility of the real career I want. The experiences of any work place should always be recognized because somehow they do connect you to the outside world and outside jobs. I have developed my people skills, by being forced to interact with everyone who approaches me at the register. I represent a business. I am trusted with money and given the task to help successfully sell/distribute the store's products according to demand. I am an employee.
Everyone works for someone.
So- although I remain completely disgusted with my job right now, I do feel optimistic and am aware of all the lessons I am learning. I want to be a business woman. This is business.

I tell everyone I know that I expect to start at the bottom and work my way up- this is that first, very stupid yet significant first step. We all have one... right?

EDIT: I just found out the master recordings for my band, Runaway Red Wagon, have been finished! I have my hands on the two finished songs- Will post as soon as possible! They sound magnificent!

Leann Rimes

2009-07-11T09:50:00.000-04:00

I think Leann Rimes is the first female vocalist to ever capture my heart. I don't even remember how old I was when I heard her for the first time- my clearest memories coincide with George, as he used to work in a branch of her Record Label (Curb I believe). He used to get me her cds all the time, bring over promotional posters, gave me a book on her life- etc etc. I taught myself how to sing to her. I was lucky enough to see her a few years ago, and am happy to say that I am seeing her again next Sunday! She'll be in Cohassett, MA, the town right next to mine, in a venue called "The Music Circus". I'm pretty pumped.

I havent been able to post much, been working a lot- trying to pay off my car insurance.

Oh, and have you checked out Bibis yet? http://myspace.com/bibisellison

NC Picture Entry #2- Bridge!

2009-06-26T14:18:00.000-04:00

Or perhaps a Causeway- We had to go over this multiple times by the end of our trip- as it was the only way to get to the Outer Banks that we knew of at least :)

I also filmed us going over it but it's not that interesting!

Lucas Scott's House- NC Picture Entry #1

2009-06-23T00:30:00.000-04:00

It's for sale! A few moments after I took these pictures, a cat wandered onto the porch there- Made me wonder if perhaps that cat was around when the crew would film there... It might miss the OTH gang!

Back from North Carolina

2009-06-22T13:20:00.000-04:00

I can't believe this week is over- that in the past 7 days, I was in the car for 36+ hours- but it was all worth it!
I didn't expect to see so many funny sights on my journey. As soon as we got into North Carolina- we started seeing these funny billboards that said "I got my crabs from Dirty Dicks Crab House"- needless to say I was in hysterics. Another noteworthy billboard, "Try My Nuts" for a Nut company.
I made an entire list of funny things I saw- but the notebook itself is in my friends car- I'll get that up later, as I'm sure it'll be funny for a lot of you as well.

As most of you know, I was able to swing the trip to Wilmington, NC on Tuesday. We left early in the morning, and arrived there by about 2pm. We had a GPS so we literally arrived at Lucas' house (OTH)- I couldn't believe how much smaller it looked in real life- those camera angles are tricky! (I've since rewatched a few OTH episodes and totally understand now, what they did to prevent the viewer from seeing the other houses crowded onto the same stretch of road. We also went to Brookes, Tric, C/B, and more.
At around 5pm Andrew, Colin and I met up with Laurenmichelle in Port City Java, and eventually Kim- before heading over to meet up with MM, Becca, Dani, Jac, Andrea et al. After getting slightly drunk, because I'm a wicked lightweight, we went to get dinner at a nearby place.
It was still an hour to go before the Bibis show at the Whiskey- but since we had a 5 hour drive ahead of us after, we figured we'd grab all the essentials after dinner such as gas, coffee- mainly because we had no idea when everything closed. Finally it was 10:30 and we headed over to the Whiskey- where I recieved my double x's for being underage.
Bibis was outstanding! The place filled up rather fast, so I'm glad we got there when we did. The SGP table was pretty fully already- and since I had two other folks with me, I had to sit at another table- but it was a lot of fun seeing how much fun they were having :) Bibis recognized the SGP table too.
I figured Hilarie Burton knew what she was talking about when she took on Bibis- but I didn't anticipate the chills that her very first note caused me to experience. She opened her first set with "Fallin'"- Alicia Keys. Holy crap. She has the most amazing power- and at the same time beautiful soft approach- hitting every note perfectly. She was OUTSTANDING. The Spare Change band was a lot of fun too- It was obvious that they value their time with such an amazing vocalist. I cannot wait to see more of her!
I could have met her, but sadly we left around midnight. If the drive wasn't 5 hours we would have stayed til 2AM and watch her finish her night at the Whiskey- but I am so glad I saw her at all. It was an amazing treat.
It was inspiring to look over at the SGP table and see the friendships strengthening. I would have loved to be apart of the rest of their week together- but it really was pretty neat seeing the folks that I've come to know online.
SGP is a great community and meeting 8 of those girls stands as solid proof. Can't wait to meet more of you over the time to come.
<3

Bibis Tuesday Night @ The Whiskey

2009-06-14T20:40:00.000-04:00

Hello!!! I have great news!

Colin, Andrew and I- along with Becca, Kim, Laurenmichelle- and a few others I'm hearing- will be at BIBIS Tuesday night in Wilmington!

PLEASE If you know you're going, give me your cell phone number/a way for me to contact you! I'd love if we could all meet up beforehand and document this! Get to know each other before getting into the amazing Bibis show!!

Tell everyone this applies to!

You're all amazing! Can't wait to meet you all, support Bibis and have an SGP extravaganza!!!
xoxoxo

This Flautist is on Vacation

2009-06-13T01:00:00.001-04:00

Alright friends- In the morning I depart for North Carolina. We won't make it to the outer banks until Sunday morning, as we've planned to stay overnight in Fredricksberg (sp?), VA.
Hoping to create some gorgeous music by the beach, read tons of books, perhaps write- and most of all- relax!
I'll be connected to the internet though, and will definitely Flickr pics :)

Take care, SGP folk! Perhaps I'll be meeting some of you assuming I make my trip to Wilmington happen, which Andrew is advocating strongly. It'd mean so much to me if it were to work out.
Time will tell. In the meantime, gnite :)

Southern Gothic Productions = Love

2009-06-08T22:27:00.000-04:00

If you haven't checked out Southern Gothic Productions yet, please do???

http://www.SoGoPro.com

You won't be sorry.

Tedeschi's

2009-06-08T16:59:00.000-04:00

I suppose the only music-related topic that derives from my workplace (which is a 24/7 Convenience store called "Tedeschi's"- located in North Scituate, MA) is a woman, a singer- Who happens to share the same name as my store, a singer Susan Tedeschi. I don't know much about that woman, I just know she exists.
She is just my "bridge-subject" so I can briefly delve a bit deeper into my actual workplace, which currently- I cannot stand. It only recently came to my attention the large amount of stupid information I have to know as a result of working there. I won't get into detail largely because it's literally too useless to write out. I just never would have expected to feel so "dumbed" down. It's clearly been a while since I last worked a 30 hour work week in that place.
Though after 3 years one would think I'd be numb to it all.

The point of this post? To apologize for my lack of interesting posts/songs/creations of any kind lately. Tedeschi's has sucked the life out of me. I surrender to sleep almost immediately after returning from a shift, and wake up with just enough time to get there at 9am the following day. Pretty lame.
I expect next week you'll receive more creations as I'll be on an official vacation in North Carolina. Couldn't be more pumped.
So, I mentioned someone in the music industry (Susan Tedeschi), I explained to you why Trebels Advocate has really been Dribbles Advocate, whatever that is- and now I think I can sign off here.
I am going into the city this evening to celebrate my older brother, Eric's, college graduation which took place just a few weeks ago. :)
We're all getting so old!

Note to self: Keep overly useless comments out of future posts. I tend to ramble. (I'd say this entire NTS is an example of just that, eh?)

What have I learned recently?

2009-06-04T09:46:00.000-04:00

Every now and then I like to stop everything and take a minute to think about what I have truly learned in the recent past. I especially do this while at school, in a thousand classes- but I also really enjoy it during the Summer. My mind opens up with the abundance of time on my hands, and I feel as though I have better grasp on my life and my goals. My approach to solving problems seems to be smoother- and I'm more motivated to work on the things I love. (Perhaps with Flute "practice" being the exception- I tend to play for fun as opposed to cranking at the Gobert + Taffenel's rigorous scale exercises- ahh)
I think actually that my flute playing is a fantastic example for this situation.

When I approach the flute over the summer- it is literally about the music and my love for the instrument itself. It's not about mastering my weekly etude at a tempo my professor won't kill me for- or figuring out what my jury piece is going to be, where I begin the whole "play through" process: me picking out several possible works appropriate for the jury continue to play/practice each of those pieces until I know them all well enough to decide which I can deliver the strongest, most musical and accurate performance infront of the panel. Instead, I can pick a key and create melodies- I can turn on Garageband and can overdub some sweet harmonies to them. I can be an artist.
I suppose I will get creative with my flute over the school year- but it's a different experience. At school I'm aware of why I need this creative time- whereas over the summer, I elect to spend my time immersed in my sound. I decide to work on my tone and technique because I genuinely care to improve it. I want to earn a better seat in Concert band and I'm willing to stay in shape for that.
SGP has taught me a lot about an industry I am very much so interested in being apart of some day. The past couple months have shown me the right and wrong way to approaching a huge dream like that. It's easy to anticipate your rise to the top with an inaccurate perception of time. That was definitely something that happened when I first learned about Southern Gothic. My excitement made me oblivious to the tons of other people that are just as excited. When I get enthusiastic, or hopeful/excited about anything, I'm hard to slow down. My emotions run wild and I find that I want to throw myself into it 100%. I suppose this can deliver a not so wonderful first impression- and I've learned how to respond to that situation.
I know what I have to do because I feel like the interactions I've experienced with SGP have been very educational for me. SGP is a company- a wonderful, unique, company that in a short amount of time I came to love. The Street Team is a part of my daily routine now. Half of my thoughts these days concern SGP and my need to brainstorm ways to contribute. It's an infectious place for music/film lovers.
I've learned that my appreciation for Kate Winslet has skyrocketed. After seeing "The Reader"- I knew that my love for her had tripled times infinity. She's an amazing actress that brought me to a new film that was absolutely outstanding. Her performance was brilliant. I hardly ever commend actors/actresses because I often feel like I don't have the knowledge to properly critique them. Although friends tell me all the time that I have the right kind of personality to potentially rock at acting, my only real way of knowing a good actor from bad is from watching movie after movie... (after movie). It's almost true to say that watching movies is a passion, right? If it is, it's one of mine. Kate Winslet really reminded me of that the other night.
As I mentioned in a blog entry a week or so ago- I feel like I've realized, for the first time, how much talent there really is in this planet. I don't just mean musical talents or acting skills- but I mean talent at everything. All the professions in the world, the inventors of today, the architects, the landscapers, computer masters, SRT professionals, teachers/all educators- both in and out of the walls of school. So much talent surrounds us everyday, and yet, when we're pedestrians we flip people off, honk our horns, we scowl and cut other people in line- why?

I suppose that's something we're all yet to understand.

"Fix You" by Some of Your Friends

2009-06-03T16:50:00.000-04:00

Left to right: Ken Budka (lead guitar), Theresa Cleary (Viola/Vocals), Elisabeth Hodge (Stand up Bass/Vocals), Kendall D (Piano/Vocals), Drew Hooke (Drums)

Okay- so I think in every musician's life they end up in a semi-real-ish group of people that refer to themselves as a band.. right?
Well second semester my freshman year (which was a lot longer ago than I realized, just now) there was a talent show that my good friends Theresa and Elisabeth wanted to participate in. These two chicks are always singing with me- we love our harmonies- and trust me, you get plenty of that with us.
So anyways- when we found out about the talent show, we knew we immediately wanted to get in, but there was a process in order to do so.
1) Figure out what we wanted to do. Obviously it was going to be musical, after all, we're music majors.. so... we're not really good at anything else.
2)Determine who else would be involved in the act with us.
2.5) What are we going to call ourselves?
3) Audition to be on the bill
4) Get in!

We decided to perform "Fix You" by Coldplay because at the time it was a significant song for all three of us in our own unique ways. We knew, however, that a flautist/singer, a violist, and a stand up bassist would not be enough. We love our trio and all- but it wasn't going to work out for a Coldplay tune.
Within a day, we had found our ensemble. Our good friends Drew (drums) and Ken (electric guitar) stepped up for the challenge and bam! In one rehearsal we had our group.
Somehow, against my will, we ended up calling this group of people, "Some Of Your Friends". It's not my favorite name, whatsoever.
I leave you now with the 2nd place winning performance of Coldplay's "Fix You". You will hear me on piano- and on the lowest notes in the harmonies. Something I'm not sure I've told all of you- but I have quite the low note range. I literally have a problem when I improv with a bass singer because I'm so used to being the bass ;)
Also, when listening- try to imagine what the actual stage looked like:
The three part harmony opens the song- the lights are only on us three girls that are singing. The lights basically stay this way until you finally hear the rest of the band layer in. Still, the lights are consistent and rather low key. The infamous build up, is where all the lights start pulsing/changing color- We knew a guy on the Sound Crew that night who hooked us up with some cool effects.
I do have the video footage but it's on a dvd that a friend has at the moment. For now, enjoy the mp3!
A little side note: the recording you're going to hear was recorded by my best friend, Andrew- on this mac's Garageband. I tell you this for two reasons: a) you can tell the quality isn't great b) you can hear Andrew shriek of happiness at the very end of the mp3. A responsible blog-poster would have edited that out for you- but I find it adds character. Supportive friends rock!

Singing with the Barenaked Ladies

2009-06-02T18:20:00.000-04:00

My Sophomore year in high school, my choir director, Mr. Richter, handed out a sheet in chorus telling us that we had an opportunity to sing with the Barenaked Ladies, provided we auditioned and were accepted. The group, after the audition process was completed, included probably about 15-20 kids from my high school- I got to be one of them.
The Barenaked Ladies were on tour that year for their new Christmas album "Barenaked for the Holidays". When I was younger I loved BNL- they were one of my favorite groups... So years later when I had this chance, I knew I had to take it.

We were asked to perform 3 holiday themed songs prior to the band coming on. We rehearsed for a few weeks until finally, the dress rehearsal/first show date finally came.
We took the T, made it into Boston, and showed up at the Orpheum theatre to find BNL doing their own soundcheck. It was funny to see them playing around without the huge crowd in the audience. We were able to have our own personal BNL concert.
Right before we went on stage, we could hear the guys a floor up from us (in their dressing room backstage) wishing us luck and that they'd see us out there.
I've been cleaning my room all day- and happily found the recordings from performing with BNL. I give you now, one of the holiday tunes we sang on stage with BNL. They had some funny things to talk about with us... on and off stage!
This is the best shot I could find of me being actually "visible"- I'm making a weird face and have one arm akwardly pointing at... who? I wonder.. The back of the bald head you can see directly next to me- is Mr. Richter.

"I Saw Three Ships"- BNL with Scituate High School Choir - Definitely give the whole thing a listen, the guys say a few funny things about us at the end :)

SoGoPro.com is where it's at!

2009-05-30T16:16:00.000-04:00

Just taking a moment to congratulate everyone involved at the SGP website! It looks beautiful! Everyone has put in a lot of great effort and I'm thrilled to see how it will evolve!

Keep up the amazing work! We're a great community! Let's show it off :)

Appreciation for talent

2009-05-28T17:49:00.000-04:00

I just wanted to take this very brief opportunity to say that there is SO much talent in this world- and I think it's beautiful.

This entire world, all of the SGP community, up and down the streets of our cities and neighborhoods- there is talent, ability, and beauty.

I love it. I love being apart of it. I love knowing people who are apart of it.
Go for the gold folks. Use your many talents. Whatever it is you do best and do well, it's an incredible gift.

I hope you'll share it with us all.

Time for a Flashback

2009-05-27T10:42:00.000-04:00

This is one of the many nights I was brought on to my grandfather's radio show, with my girl group at the time, The Tutti Fruitties. The man looking at me with the headphones is my wonderful Grampy. He is one of my best friends of all time.
I used to visit the station every single Saturday night. We would leave Dalby Farm together at 3pm and wouldn't return home until well after Midnight. My mother was always so cool about her young 12 year old going off to the radio station on Saturday nights- even when she knew I'd be grouchy the next morning at church.
The reason why visiting 95.9 WATD FM was so much fun, was because we had an entire family of people that would show up each week. These people were fans, friends and strangers who would show up in Marshfield at the studio and sit in the room that you see me in in the pic above.
Now, keep in mind. I was 12-16 when I spent the bulk of my time there, and the other people were at least 20+. Most of them were middle aged adults that loved my grampy, and had known him through other music related events/organizations etc. This gave me invaluable experience with relating to people of all ages. They all treated me like the child they never had, or their sister- or like their grandaughter.
We all wore Blue shiny jackets that had "Yesterdays Memories" embroidered on the back with white thread. We were our own little club- only the "in" members of YM would be able to wear that color blue, even though other colors of those jackets are available for sale!
This family I speak of would go to Clearlake, Iowa (I still do) every year in February to join in on the winter dance party thrown for Buddy Holly at the Surf Ballroom (the last venue he performed before his plane crashed, of course)- I'll post way more about Iowa some other time.
But this group of people was remarkable. I would spend most of my time in what is called the Production Studio B- and I would record various things. Usually I'd pretend I had my own radio show, and figure out how to work the board while burning it to CD. This is why I have a thousand unmarked CD's in my room scattered throughout both of my closets.
I would record all my friends, I'd play my favorite songs at the time- I'd sing over Karaoke tracks to practice hearing my singing voice through a mic- and I'd create commercial spots. I would literally sit there and make up companys that would be advertising on 'my show'.
I started training to be in the Music Business without knowing it, since before I knew what it was.
I've decided to start looking through the many CD's I have of myself over those times, and will share with you the funnier recordings that exist. This will be a big deal for me because those years are over. Some of the folks have passed away since then, others decided they had better things to do on Saturdays. All I know is for those few years, I had two very strong, very supportive families. Both always supportive of my passion for music, both confident that I would make waves in the music world some how- both full of love. I'll remember that time forever, because it really made a huge difference. ^Yes, that is me in this picture.. 13 years old.
I don't have to be mid-aged to know that now at 19. In fact, it's because of the Station that I feel so old.. A lot of experiences came from knowing over 30 adults when I was just trying to find out who I was.
I still feel grateful for my grampy every single day. I'll always tell you how sad it makes me to know that he doesn't have his wife here... to know that I never got to see how in love they were... and what's worse is how my gramps doesn't even have George now..
Stay tuned... I'm going to tell you about George too. Now he is/was a remarkable man... But he needs an entry of his own. I hope one day my words will be able to properly express how many amazing people I have been able to know...

Definitely check back for the post on George. If you are going to know me, you need to know who George was...

Photos are on the way... As 85 kids roam my yard

2009-05-27T10:32:00.001-04:00

I'm not kidding either- this morning 85 kids are here for a tour- and that's only the morning tour. The afternoon tour at 1pm has 77.

I didn't realize this farm was also turning into a minor passion.. Music first- save the world's rare breeds, second.

So now that I'm back in Scituate I really want you all to see my home better. When I first came online to SGP I only posted pictures of my yard that my mother put up on Dalbyfarm.com - But I know better. I think I could convince a lot of you lovely folks to make an effort to come to Scituate, Massachusetts one day- there isn't too much here but there's enough near by to make it all worthwhile.
Im charging the battery to my terribly crappy camera right now. It used to rock- but then at some point my digital camera's screen decided to crack and be a nasty white thing. I don't know.

Anyways- SGP's Flickr will have some new home pics soon- as will this blog.
I especially want to show you all my wonderful home. I want you to see what my mother has made of this beautiful old house. She collects antiques of all kinds- furniture, dishes, lamps, everything. It's a beautiful place. I really can't wait to show you. I think you'll find it charming, beautiful, and extremely traditional.
I'm sure my mom would be horrified at the thought of me posting pictures of our interior- as we have plans to yet again redo several rooms (It feels like we just did that... I guess it's been 15 years after all, huh!)
I have been a music writing machine lately. Andrew and I have been throwing ideas around, and will secure a day soon to start up on the project! I have to get through this week of farm obligations before I can get to that though.

I hope you are all enjoying my blog thus far. It's been taking a few twists and turns off my intended course- but there'll be plenty more to come :)

The excerpt from my book you've all been waiting for... Dun dun dun!

2009-05-26T17:24:00.000-04:00

Okay. I've caved. I'm going to post an excerpt, which is rather long, from the novel I've been working on forever. I haven't shown this to anybody, not even the best of friends- so be kind. Writing is the only place that I am truly shy, since I'm not so sure I deliver worthwhile imagery.
Please comment. This is a place for creativity and expression- please always participate should you feel the desire.

I should also mention that this book is definitely and openly inspired by my life- It's more like a Memoir than anything else- I should also add this is a very rough rough draft... I should stop the self- deprication now huh?

"Today was long and treacherous.

I won't get into specific detail regarding the work I had to do for Dalby Farm this morning- but it involved a lot of screaming children- both of joy and of horror as Satuit, with his large goat horns, displayed his rambunctious butting against the fence, nearly breaking the wood in two. Screaming children at 8AM , yech! (Without any coffee might I add!!)
I suppose there was laughter all throughout, but I was too busy sneezing, and becoming a swollen mess from the hay. My mother knows I'm allergic, yet I still find myself, tour after tour, staring at the bail of hay I have to break apart so the young children can feed Nate and Pepper for the thousandth time. As if they aren't fat enough.
Sometimes I have to laugh at the women that bring their children to our farm. Scituate/Cohassett women never seem to understand what visiting a farm entails. It's as if they expect us to have a nice tarp over all of the mucky stuff. I don't think so. They show up in their cute sandals, tank tops, fancy white skirts/pants- and the best sunglasses on the market! Nobody is more stylish than this Farmer-going Mom.
At Dalby Farm, we walk through trails, dirt trails... which, yes sometimes means muddy trails! We look at the land that belonged to my grandfather's parents, there literally is a site in our yard that used to serve as my grandfather's family's dump- there are old metal, glass and wooden tools there that must have been thrown away after becoming dull.
Anyways, it was very funny to watch the women look in disgust at their feet becoming even slightly dirty. The genuine "YUCK!" that one of them will yelp every now and then, is also very entertaining. Bugs also seem to catch most of them by surprise.
I suppose I'm being cruel. After all, these women do support our family farm, and their hyper children definitely enjoy the nature.
The best tour that ever happened here, was when a group of little kids from inner city Boston- who had never seen farm animals before in their lives, even chickens- experienced Dalby Farm. Talk about a memory they'll remember forever!
I love being apart of that, and I'm glad that we're expanding. Our farm is all about preserving rare breeds- it's unfortunate to say that people who truly dig into nature, and aim to keep it safe, are also becoming quite rare. Maybe Dalby Farm is going to change that significantly- maybe you, the reader can help too. Nature is beautiful.
I used to stick my nose up at the thought of working on this farm, especially during the summer. I couldn't help but think, "I'm interested in music, I want to work in a field that is significant to my future!" But a few years ago I went on my first tour with my mother- and I swear, you would love her. She's the most engaging woman- and works so hard to share her love for nature with everyone. She talks to all the animals and they respond as if they understand her. Our animals see my mom as their own mother- and it's obvious. My mother, Cheryl, knows just what to say on our tours to please every audience. She is the absolute best. Every time I see her interact with the animals, I get to see my mother at her absolute happiest- She is working so hard to save rare breeds. We are ever expanding and I know she'll keep going until she dies. I admire her. I hope you all get a chance to meet her. (What author expects his/her audience to ever seriously make contact with their mother? Clearly an odd one. Yes, I am odd- you could say.. Or I'm just a believer. After all, you can meet my mother. You need to get to Scituate, Massachusetts- (after getting in touch with Dalby Farm, of course - Dalbyfarm.com ) and then meet my mother and I. I'll be the one with the tiny diamond nose piercing, and she'll be holding the coffee.
Yes. I didn't like working at the farm. I didn't like feeding the goats when I was little, or being told to fetch the eggs- those were my chores, by the way. The hay made me uncomfortable and I couldn't stand the smell. Now, though it still smells horrible- I do appreciate the incredible life that surrounds me, and am so glad my mother and father's heart brought them here. I love my parents. I love my mom.
We have always had our disagreements, and we always will. In the end, she loves me with all of her heart. She put her huge moneymaking career behind her, because she wanted to be the best mother she could be to Eric and I. I know she doesn't regret that decision, but I also know she wonders what it'd be like to have a lot of money and success in a corporate sense. Farm life suits her the best in the end, though- or so I feel.
My mother and father moved in with my grandfather after her mom, Diane Bowen, but we call her Nan, died of breast cancer at 42 just a year after I was born, if that. My grandfather needed us to move in here with him around then, as this was an unusual tragedy... Nan was diagnosed with breast cancer and was treated. For 9 years she was told she was in remission and was clear of the illness when out of nowhere a second opinion told them otherwise. Instead of having been heathy those 9 years, my poor grandmother's cancer was spreading like wildfire. She passed away only 6 months after this second diagnosis.
My heart burns when I think of that, yours would too if you knew my grandfather. He fell in love with Nan at 22, when she was just 16. This was the 50's, keep in mind. Nan married him right out of high school- and followed him all over the place as he DJ'ed clubs/parties- as he would emcee concerts in the area, and as he'd broadcast every Saturday night with George on Yesterday's Memories. Finally, at 18 Nan was pregnant with my mother, but you would still find the perfect couple riding around on my Grandfather's Harley every chance they got. They were that cliche couple- the mythical couple, the pair you dream about- You couldn't possibly find nicer people in the world too, with the best sense of humor.
A quick description of my grandfather- First of all I call him Grampy, we all do! He is tall and relatively slender. He's recently turned 70, but doesn't act nor look it. You can find him outside every day doing one of three things. 1) Some form of yard work- working on new sheds, because yes, he builds everything! Or you'll catch him in the yard doig garden work. 2) He's in the studio upback- This is where he keeps all of his records, and when I say all, I mean hundreds of thousands of records. He has hopes to broadcast the oldies show from there someday but for now we're getting all of the technical things underway with the studio set up. 3) Working on our Model A. Do you know what those are? Very very old cars. You should google it if you don't know what it is, I want you to see it. It's black and shiny and brand new looking now- but it hadn't been for nearly 19 years. Grampy has been working on it in his spare time for my entire life. I never really thought I'd see the day it would look as he said it was going to. He just installed the engine last week- sadly he found out the radiator (or something) needed to be flushed first, but since nobody cares for Model A parts these days, he may have to buy a new one altogether.
One time, Grampy and Nan were both at a Buddy Holly concert (can I just say how JEALOUS I am?)- well, because Grampy was tall, handsome, in a black leather jacket and climbing onto a Harley as soon as the show got out- a lot of women mistook him for Buddy Holly and literally ambushed him. Somehow he got away, only signing one fake autograph because he didn't want to be a loser.
I've always loved that story.
He still wears his wedding ring. He has told every woman that has approached him over the last 30 years that he is still madly in love with his wife. He brings flowers to her grave every month. I am in love with that story. Everyone tells me I'm just like her- because of course, I am just as interested in what he does as she was. For years I'd tag along, and still do, with my grandfather to everything he does. I was what kept him going I think, and vice versa. Without music, I'd be lost- and without him, I'd be devastated. He's always so proud of my accomplishments, and my undying motivation and drive to get me somewhere in this world with passion as my vehicle.
I wish Nan was here every single day, in a way for myself, but more for him. I'm extremely empathetic- I feel people's pain. This is something I am happy about- though it definitely makes my emotional life rather barbarious. You'll know why too- I think by the end of this, you and I will be on the same page. I think you will look me in the eye and see my hopes, fears, strengths, weaknesses- You'll see I'm a pessismist, but the best kind... You'll learn. You'll see."

(I upgraded my modem today, which helped mark the beginning of several things- one of the best being my new chance to contribute to Southern Gothic Productions, a company that I feel very emotionally attached too haha- so, yay!)

This is Nan- my beautiful grandmother who left us far too soon. She was the love of my Grampy's life- and I wish I got to know her!

Exciting news for two lifelong friends and for all music lovers :)

2009-05-25T18:58:00.001-04:00

This is a picture of Kendall and Andrew. Kendall and Andrew have known each other since Kindergartern. Andrew was the object of Kendall's affection for many many years until one day they literally became best friends instead. They now go to Umass Lowell together and remain extremely close.
As you know Kendall is a music business major there. Andrew started out as a music major because he is an extremely talented bassist- and has a good knowledge and performance level (lots of experience :) ) with guitar, and drums. He is also working on his beautiful singing voice. Cranking til he hits his ideal vocal plateau. He is in a few different bands and works on solo material in his own time.
Kendall and Andrew love all of the same music. Kendall and Andrew both share a burning desire to find their sound. THEIR sound.
Kendall and Andrew have joined forces.

Okay. Enough of that. It's true. My best friend, of all time, and I have finally decided to start our own music project. All too many times we find ourselves sitting around critiquing thousands of bands, discussing what love, what we hate, what we'd do differently- etc etc etc. Today, while gushing over St. Vincent for the 90 millionth time, we asked ourselves why we hadn't written music together earlier. It seemed so stupid. Sure, we're in Runaway Red Wagon together, but nothing else really. I've had my bands and he's had his.

So ladies and gentlemen, we do not have a name. But I share this exciting news with you because I believe it is a brand new chapter of an already beautiful friendship. He and I agreed to not stop until we have found our sound. I'll be able to utilize my grandfather's studio in the backyard for awesome recording quality- and I will finally be able to share with you all who I think I really am- Through sound. I'll also be able to use my music business knowledge to get some good attention our way- to develop a fanbase. I'm excited about that.

For now, updates will be posted here- but in time we're going to have a blog specifically designed to bring you along on our journey. I hope you'll stick around with us. I don't think you'll be disappointed. For me, it's not an option.
This is my heart and soul- finally collaborating with someone so dear to me, and someone whom I know and knows me to the core. We've experienced everything together- we feel each others pain. I hope you all have a friend like this if not now, then some day.

Here's to the new beginning of the temporarily no-named duo.
(I should add, our goal is to record our ideal music- utilizing our talents and songwriting abilities. We are not necessarily aiming to reach the live performace end of things- We want you to hear us. We want you to feel what we feel, and love what you hear while at the same time- recognizing that the sounds you hear are specifically meant to spill our guts out, to be graphic.)

When I started this blog, I told you I was going to talk to you about my passion. This is one of them breaking out and taking over. I am going to grow from this- in nearly every way imaginable. I can't wait to share it with you.

"Woods"

2009-05-20T20:43:00.000-04:00

Hello again, third post today! Wow!

Just wanted to point out the new song of mine added for you all to hear- it's called "Woods". It's not very long, and it really is something I just created randomly with the help of a few Garageband Percussion sounds.
(The flute at the end is me, and all the vocal tracks are me overdubbing. Fun stuff!)

As always, leave thoughts/opinions- otherwise, more on the way!

You wanna hear the way I talk, eh?

2009-05-20T16:01:00.000-04:00

To participate in the accent vlog showdown, I give you my voice.

(And my face, but you don't need to worry so much about it ;) )
I am from Boston, MA- lacking the heavy cliche accent you may be expecting. Enjoy the awesome story written by Vicki and Megan Mary :)

Pattern Is Movement/ St. Vincent @ Somerville Theatre Last night!

2009-05-20T11:06:00.000-04:00

My friends and I drove by the theater last night, and as we were slowing down for a red light- we looked out our windows and realized that Anne Clark (St. Vincent) was standing there with a guy. My friend, Andrew, loves her to death- so he honked the horn, "woooed" at her, while turning up her song that we had on.
The show itself was good. Pattern is Movement was a surprise of many kinds. Two men come out on stage and sit down, one to a drum set and the other to what appears to be a keyboard and synth stuff. These men literally looked quite average, as though they didnt even take themselves seriously.
Well, as soon as they started singing- they both meant business.
The drummer had a lot of energy and was an absolute blast to watch. The singer/keyboardist had a phenomenal, strong, voice that ended up really reminding me of the Fleet Foxes. For two men they had a full, tight sound. Not to mention a pretty unique set! The lights were effective- as were the parts where the vocalist would stop playing with the keys/synth and jam on another drum while the drummer kept rocking his beat. Overall they were a very cool group. I love seeing bands live that I have never heard of before- it's such a full experience!
St. Vincent has one of those voices that you can count on live. All of her recordings suggest that what you're hearing recorded is what you'll get during the concert- and you do. She was right on. She had an interesting energy on stage- not exactly chatting but definitely showing us a bit of her fun/sarcastic side. She was making references to Michael McDonald and other random things all throughout the night.
My single complaint? Her guitar was NOT loud enough. I could hardly hear her during the most crucial moments! It was the first time I ever saw a guitarist be lower than the rest of the band... which, by the way, included a violin, a clarinet sax flute, along with drums, her two guitars and bass (and synth at times).
Lights were great, crowd loved her- I loved her. Good time.

Music Business II/ SGP 1,000!

2009-05-19T11:36:00.001-04:00

Alright- all I have left is my jury on Thursday. I'm performing Bach's Sonata in Eb for Flute! It's a great piece, not too challenging but definitely difficult enough to show off my ability.

In other news, way to go SGP with over 1,000 followers! Fantastic! It's really a treat watching this company come to life before us. I anticipate the first release from them.
(And off topic once more, I'm happy with the OTH Peyton ending. I'm relieved... I didn't think Mark Schwann was going to totally abandon our girl!)

I don't have too much to say really. I'm about to see St. Vincent tonight! Totally pumped.

I'll have to update with something real and important to share later on. For now, let's keep our focus on making SGP fantastic.

I keep trying to find ways of showing support but I feel like the rest of the street team has most of the bases covered. I'll find something to contribute sooner than later. They are far too awesome to just sit on the sidelines when you can actually be involved! What a marketing technique! So fantastic. Literally, Fantastic.
SGP ROCKS!

Hilarie Burton, I love you!

2009-05-13T13:36:00.001-04:00

Just a quick note, because I can't help it.

Peyton Sawyer has been one of my favorite characters of all time, ever. I saw the first OTH episode years and years ago, and I felt instantly connected to her. Peyton's character experienced a lot of terrible times that to some degree I can relate to- no matter what she always bounced back.
She's my favorite. I've grown with her over the years. Peyton saved me, sometimes.
I started watching OTH in high school, and I'm halfway through with college now.

I'm writing this to let the world know that should P. Sawyer be off of OTH after the finale on Monday, I will live- but I'll be very sad to lose an identity that I have admired and that I have loved loving all this time.

I want to thank Hilarie Burton for sharing her amazing talent with all of us, and for giving us the best Peyton Sawyer we could ever have asked for.
It's the end of a very special Era. Thank Goodness for SGP... I'm glad Hilarie has that to work with now and as mentioned in the entry prior to this, I really can't wait to see what comes of her and SGP in the future.

Whether Peyton lives or dies- I'll be in tears for my fictional friend. I'll cry for that character that has climbed out of the dark tunnels with me...
I'll try to be on topic from now on ;)

Southern Gothic Productions

2009-05-12T12:14:00.000-04:00

I started this blog because I wanted to share my thoughts, experiences, and revelations with all interested in music. Yes, I am a music business major, studying the flute as my primary instrument, but I am much more than that.
I am a creative person. I am motivated. I don't stop until something is done, and done right. When it comes down to composing I am all about going with the emotional flow. The process of creation comes with heart, and personality.
Because I know this about myself, I know how to detect it in other people/projects. This is why I become so attached to artists who create music that speaks to me. I understand the emotional motivators that inspire that kind of creativity. To be honest, I don't get too caught up in the personal lives of the musicians I love because usually that information isn't openly shared, or rather, it's not intentionally shared. The media, when used for legitimate marketing strategies/promotional purposes, is fine, great- sure! Whatever. But when it cuts into the personal lives of people who've decided to pursue music as a career, well- it bothers me. I don't buy into it. I'll hear about the scandals but quite frankly they don't interest me.
My point, is that Southern Gothic Productions, has become something I feel emotionally attached to. I am standing on the outside of this little independent company that is just beginning it's adventures and I find myself hoping that somehow I can contribute my part. I feel like I have something to offer them, I just don't know what.
I am a musical, creative, optimistic, and quite honestly, odd woman. I can play inside the lines or I can draw new ones. I can think outside the box, or I can work inside of it. I have no limits. I want to work and create. I want my imagination to become a visible/audible reality. I want to help everyone else, find themselves immersed in the beauty of creation- art, film, music. Whatever.
The folks at SGP- Hilarie, Nick, KT, Austin, and all of the awesome people I talk to on the chat every single day have made me determined to start my life right now. I'm about to be a Junior in college. I have 2 years before I leave the familiar and embark on my career.
I want my future to reflect my passions. I want my actions to benefit those who have inspired me and helped me. I want my creations to bring tears to peoples eyes, to pull the heart strings of all who encounter my work.
I don't need people to know my face. I don't need a lot of money. I don't need recognition.
I need to create. I need to be heard. I need to make a difference.
And most importantly, I need to give back to SGP. I need to show them what a difference they've made for me just by existing- just by reaching out and trying something new. Just by pursuing a passion.
I'm not saying I'm going to move to Wilmington and beg them to let me work with them. (Though, quite honestly if they asked, I'd do whatever they wanted). I am saying, though, that my life and my career will be full of passion.
One day, I will thank SGP for reminding me why I am in school for music. I will thank them and they will absolutely know how brilliant they are.
I don't even need to see the flick to know that :)

Seep Into the Seat

2009-05-08T16:23:00.000-04:00

Well, it's been a long few days. Between schoolwork and the close encounter with the Swine Flu- I've found myself exhausted.
However, it has given me an opportunity to listen to St. Vincent's new album, "Actor", and just like "Marry Me", it is astounding.
I absolutely love this artist. She's quite unique, has a fantastic voice, and produces really good work. I find her songwriting to be captivating. It's refreshing feeling the unexpected wash over you as you literally sink into the sound. It makes you wish you wrote it. Don't you hate that feeling?

She's a fantastic artist to listen on a rainy evening, hearing the thunder, seeing the lightning while you lie with your poor ill boyfriend in a dark room lit with only the bright little blue lights hanging along the walls. St. Vincent made that dorm room our little magical blue, musical land of the flu infested. It was surprising beautiful.

Oh, and I had ordered pizza. That's key.

But really, check out St. Vincent. Both of her albums are great, sometimes she sounds like the female Sufjan Stevens, she works it right. Her second album has a bit more variety instrumentation-wise, I'd say. But it's all good.
I have tickets to see her in Somerville May 19th- Sweeet!

Richter Scale

2009-05-05T13:18:00.000-04:00

In a little while, I'm going to edit this post and tell you all about Mr. Richter- the inspiration for this song that I'm about to share with you. I wrote it in 12th grade- Senior year- the moment I realized how dramatically different my life was going to be after leaving Mr. Richter, my choral director and close friend. It's called "Richter Scale"- and my band Runaway Red Wagon recently added it to our live set.

Here's a live recording of me singing one of our songs- My original creation in honor and of love for my Dear friend Mr. Richter.

Coldplay

2009-05-04T11:19:00.000-04:00

One of my favorite groups of all time is Coldplay. I remember when "Yellow" came out, (I had to be 10, or 11?) I hated it. The video was playing on VH-1 and I, still in my huge I DONT LIKE ANYTHING BUT BUGGLEGUM POP MUSIC phase, I remember thinking Chris Martin was a baffoon.
Who would have known that a few years later I would see them in a different light, as one of the best bands to listen to when I was sad.
Some time around "A Rush of Blood to the Head"'s release, I heard "Politik". It's not a bad song, but it gets great in the last minute. I have always loved Coldplay's progressions. The first time I heard the outro of "Politik" I knew I had to give this band a second chance. The rest of that album blew me away and I have felt emotionally attached to this band ever since.
I know people diss Coldplay for their ballads, but nearly every one has left me with shivers. Throughout my teen years I found that every breakup, every fight, every moment of confusion and despair was solved, or at least reasoned, with Coldplay. Nobody in this world could tell me they are a terrible band, and think I'd agree. I've seen them two times live- and plan on seeing them again.
One day I'll do this entry justice and write you in detail, WHY Coldplay is a good band... incase you sit there with doubts. So stay tuned.
In the meantime, a real Coldplay fan knows album released material vs. B-sides. I share with you now my terrible cover of Coldplay's "Gravity".
The piano I'm using in this recording is clearly not in the best shape, I do remember feeling the absolute need to sing this, and settling for whatever piano was nearest to do the job.
And incase you haven't caught on, I record everything. I can't sit down with an instrument without recording it- (well I do, but I always regret it if I don't record). I know better. Half the time my best work goes unheard. I am not aspiring to be a professional musician, but when I show you works inspired by my passions, I hope you understand I want them to be good.

Enjoy, "Gravity"- recorded on a terribly out of tune piano, with me, a sometimes decent, sometimes absolutely terrible singer.

For Theresa

2009-05-03T10:23:00.000-04:00

Left to Right: Theresa Cleary, Kendall Ditommaso (me)

Those who follow my posts, and who hear my various recordings over time will learn that I have a habit. On long boring days, I find myself sitting at this computer making songs out of Garageband Loops. People all over the world do this I realize, I am no different. I believe the only thing that does make me different, is my subject material.

I will share with you today a song I made last year. The background was actually a serious project at first. It was the real first time I ever tried making something out of Garageband without using the "Your own Instrument" option. This is called "For Theresa". It has become "the song" in my group of friends- the vocals are horrendous at times, but are aimed to make my best friend and my roommate at this school feel better. My "serious" project, turned into a last minute "pick me up" for my dear friend who just needed a good laugh.

Through my recordings you will get a good sense of my humor. It can be rather inappropriate at times, but I can keep it classy too.
Enjoy.
Bear in mind, not only is this improv- but it shows how truly weird I am... there is a Youtube video, but I'm afraid that would just absolutely humiliate! Find it on your own if you care that much... :) Theresa always tells me that I should go into some sort of comic musician genre because the silly songs that I write literally for my friends (there are more where this one came from...) are funny enough. I'm not sure I'm the next Weird Al- even if I wanted to be... I think he can have that genre.

I am a proud Alto by the way!

I told you I started an Oldies Cover Girl Group in 8th Grade...

2009-04-30T17:08:00.000-04:00

THE TUTTI-FRUITTIES

Left to right: Emily Badger, Kendall DiTommaso, Jill Anderson (Not seen: Brittany Holmes)

I used to be terrified to sing in front of anybody. I taught myself how to sing in the shower, and in my room - blasting loud loud music to sing a long to. I hated when my father would tell me that he listened outside my door because I knew I wasn't performance worthy. I didn't join the Gates Middle School Chorus, I stayed in band. Nobody knew of my extreme need to sing, even I hardly understood how much I loved it.
When my best friend Emily started talking about wishing she had other people to sing with, it occurred to me that I had the perfect connections to make that happen, and happen successfully. Because my grandfather is a DJ on a local radio station on the South Shore, and because he books talent for all sorts of shows around the area, I knew that if we were something good, we could get real gigs. We found our third member, and for a few years we were the three girls that made up The Tutti-Fruitties. Now I realize the name is horrific and childish, but we were 12/13 years old embarking in a business we hardly knew about, at least 2/3 of us.
We were regularly gigging for a while, performing both known and unknown oldies music by varying artists, usually female. We were hired for all sorts of gigs, extremely professional, extremely casual, and everything in between. A personal favorite gig was when we were hired for this 5 year old girl's birthday party. Apparently we were the equivalent to a 13 year olds Hannah Montana. This little girl was absolutely speechless around us, treating 3 teenage girls like royalty.
I organized everything. My grandfather would give me the date for the gig, and I would then figure out rehearsal time with our back-up band, Wing It, private rehearsal time with the girls to reconfigure/perfect harmonies, wardrobe, proper promotion for the upcoming gigs... Everything. We'd make appearances on different shows at the station my grandfather broadcasts off of to promote ourselves.
I got us into a local studio and we were able to record a demo cd. We were asked to be apart of a documentary covering keeping the Oldies alive/ a look into girl groups. We were three 15 year olds riding in a small van out to Pennsylvania to be in a documentary.
We were together from 2003-2007. In that time we managed to meet and perform with some of the most legendary oldies singers you hear everyday on the radio. To name a few:

Charlie Thomas and the Drifters (Stand By Me, Up On The Roof, Under The Boardwalk)
Shirley Alston Reeves and the Shirelles (Will You Still Love Me Tomorrow?, Soldier Boy, Mama Said)
Kathy Young (A Thousand Stars in the Sky)
Gary Lewis and the Playboys (Rubber Ball, Everybody Loves A Clown)
The Crystals (Da Doo Ron Ron, And Then He Kissed Me)
Freddy Cannon (Palasaides Park)
Jack Scott (Burning Bridges, What In The World Has Come Over You?)
The Tokens (Lion Sleeps Tonight)
The Pixies Three (442 Glenwood Avenue)
Brian Hyland (Yellow Polka-Dot Bikini)
Big Bopper Jr. (The Big Bopper's Son- Chantily Lace)
Johnny Preston (Running Bear)
Ernie Valens (Ritchie Valen's Son- La Bamba)
Etc. etc. etc.

I was fortunate because I was never around too much of a corporate environment when it came to the business. My grandfather is able to make friends with nearly all of the talent he hires. There are very few artists my grandfather has openly not agreed with- Lesley Gore being one of them. I love her music, but apparently she's incredibly difficult to work with.
We were rather untraditional with our rehearsals when The Tutti's would be performing with well known oldies artists. Because my mother and father help my grandfather with other aspects of running our shows, we would hold our rehearsals in our house. As a result, someone like Charlie Thomas is more comfortable and feels more welcome. My mother would cook all the food, and serve everybody in between sets. I was able to make really wonderful connections with a lot of successful artists sitting on my couch, talking about my passion for music.
Charlie Thomas said himself to "Stay in school, learn the business- don't get taken advatage of- make me proud. Shirley Alston Reeves said something similar, also encouraging me to continue my education but to never quit show business.
There is something unusual about swimming in the same pool as someone like Brian Hyland- He did sing "Yellow Polka-Dot Binkini"- I made sure I apologized for not having one!

Here's a recording that my girl group made our junior year in high school, (2006). This is called "Needle In A Haystack"- I am singing lead. Originally The Velvelettes recorded it... We also feature Lenny Baker on the Sax.

Oh FINE, One more- I feel like sharing today I guess.

2009-04-29T19:09:00.000-04:00

I stumbled upon this one in my library and it has me playing flute, and I figured some of ya'll who know I play flute, would maybe like to hear it!

This is a cover, The Beatles, "All My Lovin'" - and is not the best work I've ever done. A random day, being bored. This is what came out of it. Enjoy!

I'm sharing my music!

2009-04-29T16:12:00.001-04:00

I've decided every couple week's I'll throw up a tune of mine in this here "Simple MP3 Player" provided in the gadgets section.

I assume I don't need to worry about copyright issues... ;) Enjoy and critique should you feel inspired.

And now, about "Take Me"

I'm not the most creative chord progression writer. I am one of melody. I try to find strong melodies on top of maybe cliche progressions. Sue me. ( I am after all, a flute major. We don't study harmonies so much as strong expression in the melodies we play.. makes sense right? I hope!)
Vocal strength is key. I taught myself how to sing, I taught myself how to attempt the piano- and this is the result of literal improv.
This song was done on the spot with absolutely no idea where it was going- and for that I'm proud of it.
This song was recorded in the home of my boyfriend. It was recorded 3 years ago in his home, before he was my boyfriend. It was that whole seemingly "unrequited love thing". I was hopelessly in love with him.I was house-sitting and took advantage of his beautiful piano and my new macbook. A couple sad feelings and this song was created. A year or two after this song was written, we started dating. :) Almost a year later and I'm still in love. (I mention my boyfriend because a lot of the material you'll hear in the future is inspired somewhat by the ongoing struggle with loving someone who couldn't be with you)
I'm ranting ;)

A little bit about the song: "Who's Taking Sides"

The auto-tuning was absolutely by accident, but, because it is so constant in our commercial radio scene I decided to leave it and play it up. I will use Rihanna as an example- she's no stranger to auto-tuning.
The dance beat was an attempt on my part to deviate from the usual slow, nearly tragic sounding music I tend to write. I do better writing sad, minor, pounding music. This was a fun venture away from that, trying to be "political" in a sense but not so much. I concocted the beats and synth stuff from our wonderful Apple favorite, Garageband.
I am a huge fan of harmonies- All of the bands I've ever been in have been strongest vocally because I won't have it any other way. Of course the other elements in music are essential, but you either nail a song with your voice, or you bury it. I feel as though people underestimate the need for vocal strength in music, hence the huge emphasis on auto-tuning. We are now in a world where musicians don't even have to tune themselves to the correct pitches?
Anybody who knows me very well, knows that I have had a very hard transition into the idea that computers can replace actual instruments. Call me old fashioned but I would prefer to hear a live symphony as opposed to an automated sound machine projecting one. I will be very clear that ripping loops and faking my way into having an "ensemble" is not my usual route. Most of my work has been recorded with me on the piano, or in some cases, flute. (I'm a fan on layering, I will say... That stuff is fun :) )

There's more I could write, but that's all for now. Enjoy!

Runaway Red Wagon

2009-04-29T10:01:00.000-04:00

Last night, one of the bands I sing in, Runaway Red Wagon, had a gig at a cute little Bar & Restaurant in Downtown Lowell called Centros.

Our band consists of 9 people total, though last night our drummer, Kevin, and our rhythm guitarist, Andrew, were unable to make it. Our good friend Steve A., drummer for the band Life On Hold, stepped in and filled the gap.

Vocals: Me (Kendall), Elisabeth Hodge
Electric Guitar: Jon Reagan
Acoustic Guitar: Andrew McCall
Bass (Stand up/ Electric): Elisabeth Hodge
Keyboard: Matt Iannotti
Sax/Accordion: Laura Bailey
Violas (2): Theresa Cleary, Michael Coehlo
Drums: (In pictures- Steve Aliperta) Band member: Kevin Martin

We recorded both of our sets last night, and the best one will end up online. It's funny being in a group again where I sing- I was in a band, Goodnight Moon, where I mainly played the flute. It was cool being in Goodnight Moon, because we created music similar to Damien Rice, or The Swell Season. We had bowed Stand up bass, violin/viola, acoustic guitar, flute and sometimes drums. Our singer for Goodnight Moon, Ryan Axford, showed interest in going a bit further and deeper into his own creative stream- a stream that unfortunately didn't work well with the sound we as a group had already established.
I mean, if Coldplay wanted to put out Rap, you'd stop and say "What?" too right? So needless to say, the birth of Runaway Red Wagon happened. Every single member in RRW is a dear friend to me. We all live on the second floor of Concordia Hall. We're a family.
Next week we're set to go into the studio and record some of our original songs. My song, "Richter Scale" will finally be recorded after having written it over 4 years ago. It's an exciting time!
I dream of being involved with the musical components in TV/Film for a career, but I'll never stop singing. I'll sing my whole way there, and maybe play a little diddy on the flute in between songs :)

SWOT Project

2009-04-27T13:55:00.000-04:00

My music business professor, Peter Lally, has assigned our Music Business II students a project due before the end of the semester. This is what we are expected to do:

Music Business II Group Project- SWOT ANALYSIS

"Group consisting of 3-4 members. Group will prepare a SWOT analysis on an artist of their choosing, analyzing strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats in the artist's demographics, genre, past success/failure, future prospects, and other pertinent factors to an artist's career. The artists Recorded product, touring, publishing, merchandising, and media exposure (radio, tv, internet, print and others) should all be analyzed to give the audience a complete picture of the artists career.
Presentations will be at least 20 minutes long. They will take place in class on May 5th/7th.

My group is made up of 3 of my good music business buddies. We're still agreeing on a good artist to chose. Although we have complete freedom, we need to be smart with our selection- finding someone who has had a decent run already, but who also has a future. If I was in charge of deciding who we'd to, I have a few artists I'd have to chose from: Coldplay, Feist, Red Hot Chili Peppers, or Death Cab For Cutie. For kicks I entertained the thought of looking into Britney Spears career- there have been so many interesting ways that her reputation has fluctuated in the public eye. A moment after considering Britney, I dismissed her. While she would have made for an interesting story, it would have been a story that everybody already knows.
This is why I'm drawn to Death Cab for Cutie and Feist. Two of my favorites. Both Feist and Death Cab keep a relatively low profile, and still manage to be fabulous musicians producing good music. Their fame isn't manufactured by media machines- They are famous because they are wonderful.
Red Hot Chili Peppers and Coldplay sort of fall into a similar category for me as well. They aren't exactly controversial Britney-types, but both of them have hit it hard with the media/critics and both know a little bit about disappointing hardcore fans with new music.
Though Red Hot Chili Peppers have a "From rags, to drugs, to riches" fairy tale associated with their journey through the years as a rock band that would give the SWOT analysis an extra kick, Coldplay has unmistakenably been accused various times for plagerism and copyright infringement. Not everybody can get around accusations like that, and still have a booming career afterwards. Coldplay has had to do a lot of work to keep themselves from just being U2 wannabes.
Unfortunately for me, I was just texted by one of my group members and the selection will most likely not be any of my mentioned artists. The group consesus thus far, is Jimmy Eat World.
There will be more where this came from. Stay tuned.

If you're reading and feel like responding, what artist would you chose for this project and why?

People in trees.

2009-04-26T14:46:00.000-04:00

I went to Umass Amherst this weekend to see my boyfriend. The 80 degree weather was both unexpected, and fabulous. We found ourselves in Amherst Center yesterday, and eventually came across what is called "Extravaganja", a day designed for the marijuana smokers of Amherst, Ma.(and all those nearby, I'm sure). There were a couple hundred people gathered on the town common, laying in the sun, passing joints, buying glass pieces, and listening to the various live bands playing.
It seems as though the whole town turned their heads at this unusual display.... literally people of all ages were around, loving the sun, the music, and visibly feeling alive (I'm sure the high helped...) Everyone wore bright colors, everyone smiled, even the police officers I saw driving by were happy.
I have never seen so many people smoking marijuana in public, not getting caught, in my life. I was told "Extravaganja" has been happening for 18 years. I couldn't believe it.
The truth is, whether pot is your thing or not, the environment itself was beautiful. Young children, older adults, mid-aged parents out on a stroll down memory lane- and of course the college students. I saw no hostility, I only saw a community that understands itself. I felt the comradery, and though I was an outsider, observing this event as a visitor, I have never felt more welcome among strangers.
It was fun to sit on the grass and listen to the different bands. I wasn't close enough to hear the names of each group, but I felt highly entertained the whole time. I loved the way the music affected all of the people. The energy of the music kept the enthusiasm of the crowd strong. People in their high states were letting themselves go, noticably sinking into the sound.
Looking around and feeling the beat in everybody's step, feeling the pulse pounding in the life that surrounds you- is the most electrifying experience... especially if there's a hot sun on your back and a loving boyfriend by your side.
Feeling these emotions made me want to know about how everyone else around me felt. I didn't want to assume, I wanted to know. After watching many expressions on many different people, I found one person that caught my eye.
There was a guy in a tree right in front of me. He had sunglasses and a green bandana on, along with this rolled up jeans and white t-shirt. This man had no idea I was snapping pictures of him, but I found his relationship with the tree so unique. His body looked so at peace, and graceful, while at times, showing signs of conflict with his surroundings. This mystery man stayed put so I could grab a couple shots.
That man is a total stranger, and yet, here I sit, posting his image for all to see as though he is mine to share. He is not.

So, I told you I like art.

2009-04-24T11:28:00.000-04:00

I have never been the best at drawing, but when I do, I always find myself creating odd stuff. Most of the time I use pencil, taking advantage of all the shading possibilities. I like to draw random lines at first, and then see as the project continues, what I can make those lines into.
The product usually looks something like this:If you look closely you'll be able to find a lot of normal stuff in unusual places. I have fun with my silly artwork, and hope to keep posting pictures as I create them.

Who am I, and what am I doing here?

2009-04-23T18:37:00.000-04:00

I am no stranger to diaries. I started my first diary when I was in 2nd grade, and continued to write in it until it was full. It took me years and years to fill it, as the entries were quite infrequent. As the years went on, I started to understand why diaries, photos, old letters, had meaning. I became older, and everything started to change. All I had left, were memories.
With this revelation, I started writing in my diary more often, trying to document each and every sacred moment of my youth. As age became a reality (and as it still becomes one), I find comfort in leaving paper trails. Taking pictures, composing, performing, rehearsing and recording music, posting entries in diaries, online blogs, all give delightful satisfaction to my soul. I have become a member of Blogger.com, hoping to develop this mind I love so dearly, but differently than before.
Instead of updates on my personal life, I will dedicate this space to my number one passion in this world, Art. I will discuss developments in the music industry that I find memorable, I will post pictures of my artwork, I'll share personal ambitions regarding the music/film industry with brainstorms, rants, and possible ways of accomplishing them- and from time to time, I will write about my many musical experiences... and if you're really nice, I'll post some of my original music (or at least direct you to it).
For a 19 year old girl, I feel as though I have had a lot of fantastic opportunities in the smaller branches of the music industry. I will, over time, share experiences from being involved with "Yesterday's Memories" (My grandfather's successful Oldies Show on 95.9 WATD fm , The Tutti-Fruitties (a 50's/60's cover girl group I started in 8th grade), Massachusetts All-States Festival (I sang at Symphony Hall, with the Massachusetts All-State choir), along with my experiences on stage with the Barenaked Ladies, Kenny Loggins, Michael Crawford, and many others.
This blog is a collection of memories, it is a trail of my footsteps past, present, and future. From here on out you will walk with me through the tangled web that is show business. Always interact and respond, I'm listening.