Tags
Chapman Stick, classical music, father, georgia, gratitude, hero, instrumental music, maine, michigan, Scotland, wedding
Ten weeks in and we’re learning on the fly. Between gig weekends we’re on the road. This is the time we review our choices of venues; the whys and wherefores of the people who attend and the “real estate” shows. For those in the know – we’re not the only ones who follow the festival circuit full-time – “real estate” shows are those in which the promoters are often more interested in a booth fee (and yes, I do a pay a booth fee) than in creating an optimum environment for the artist. With only pictures to go on and attendee numbers, we made our schedule. So far, Georgia, Maine, and Michigan are stand-outs for shows that were good. We’re ready for the next Maine event to be held the second weekend of September. The management/promoters have been easy to reach and helpful, the visitor numbers were close to the mark, the fees were understandable, and sales were significant. We’ve also had our carnivals and in the most unlikely of places. Imagine classical dinner music at your local State Fair and you’ll get the idea.
But, it’s those stand-out shows who remind us why we chose this lifestyle. For every person who wants to cut a deal on a CD or two, there are three more who want to buy a set. For the 1,000s who ask if I’m on iTunes, Spotify, SoundCloud, etc, there are those that will take my card and download from my website. For every 10 be-backs, there are a few that really do want to come back and when they forget, if they’ve picked up my business card, will often email me for multiple CDs. For every person too busy talking with their friends, on the phone, or walking by listening to canned music; there’s the couple who dances, the child who smiles, and the awe from even the most seasoned musicians.
Thanks to my hero (my father), who surprised me with my first Chapman Stick so many years ago, I’m living my dream. And with the attitude of gratitude, my new wife and I are headed to Scotland for a wedding I’m playing.