Category Archives: Guides

Playing, Performing, Entertaining

Posted on March 5, 2017 by Gandalfe

Terry Stibal penned this in 2011 in the Woodwind Forum. He has now passed on, but his writings live on. This is a pet peeve of mine. I know a lot of folks who can do the first, significantly fewer … Continue reading →

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Pay Raise and Retirement Tips and Tricks

Posted on February 12, 2017 by Gandalfe

“I believe that the biggest mistake that most people make when it comes to their retirement is they do not plan for it. They take the same route as Alice in the story from “Alice in Wonderland,” in which the … Continue reading →

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Reverbnation.com Review

Posted on February 9, 2017 by Gandalfe

Artists First: Since 2006, ReverbNation has helped millions of emerging Artists build their careers. We’ve connected Artists to venues, festivals, brands, publishers, labels, and the fans themselves. ReverbNation’s mission puts Artists First. Our powerful career management and online marketing tools, … Continue reading →

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Smartmusic: Increase Your Concert Attendance and Community Support

Posted on January 15, 2017 by Gandalfe

By Glenn Pohland Have you ever wished that more of your teaching colleagues would attend your concerts? Wouldn’t it be nice if they could hear and see what your students are capable of?  How might you get more of your … Continue reading →

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Why Music, Why a Musician? One Man’s Story.

Posted on December 16, 2016 by Gandalfe

“Music is a moral law. It gives soul to the universe, wings to the mind, flight to the imagination, and charm and gaiety to life and to everything.” ~ Plato At one time, I thought I would, no should become … Continue reading →

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Chickens, rats, and a trap

Posted on December 12, 2016 by Gandalfe

The trouble with the rat race is that even if you win, you’re still a rat. ~ Lily Tomlin We had a growing rat problem, not in the coop … yet. But still, seeing 6 to 8 rats in the … Continue reading →

Posted in Guides, Hobbies, My World, Pets | Tagged , | 2 Comments

Merlin Williams: Woodwind Doubling on a Cruise Ship

Posted on October 18, 2016 by Gandalfe

My good friend Merlin speaks with authority about being a musician on a cruise ship. This video is an excellent education tool for those considering their own qualifications and wanting to know tips and tricks. You are welcome.

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Muddy Yards and Dirty Shoes

Posted on October 16, 2016 by Gandalfe

You pray for rain, you gotta deal with the mud too. That’s a part of it. ~ Denzel Washington Three storms have deposited their rain filling our streams, retention ponds, and yards. As I walked across the yard, checking the … Continue reading →

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Emergency Planning 2016

Posted on October 3, 2016 by Gandalfe

“Climate is what we expect, weather is what we get.” ~ Mark Twain Emergencies come in all forms from severe weather, earthquakes, volcano eruptions, and civil unrest. Most of us prioritize thusly: family, friends, work. So when the roads close, … Continue reading →

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The Life of a Musician ~ Take 123

Posted on November 17, 2015 by Gandalfe

Only a dedicated musician would take $20,000 in instruments in his $500 car, 50 miles one way to make $20. ~ Anon The holiday season is upon us and for most musicians this is a busy time. I am an … Continue reading →

Posted in Band Management, Big Band, Guides, Music, My World | 2 Comments