house concerts and 21st century touring

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The coverage of the upcoming presidential election often reminds me of the mega-challenges we face, not only in the United States, but worldwide. My recent post, which covered the “10 most likely ways that life on earth will end,” had a similar effect. As if the universe (asteroids, solar flares, black holes) isn’t hostile enough, it seems that the human race is steadily kicking out all the legs that support life on this planet.

So I sometimes feel a little silly about dedicating my life to music. As an artist and web-trepreneur, I spend a lot of time thinking about music. Specifically, how can we:

• nurture the seemingly limitless talent around us (sometimes even my own)
• help that talent connect with the people who want, or need to hear it
• awaken those who don’t realize how badly they need music in their lives.

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But how badly do we need music?

Deep down, I think we all know that music is important. Here, the Estonians show us how important it can be.

http://singingrevolution.com/

You might say, they’re just singing folk songs. So maybe it’s time to gather a few friends, and invite a few folk singers over to the house - just in case it comes down to music for us too.

Related Posts:

No Place Special House Concerts
The “New Reality” of being a music artist.

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I overslept today. I oversleep a lot. The luxury/curse of being self-employed is no one will get on my case if I show up late(r). I’m not one of those people who has established a strong morning routine in my life (like waking up at a certain time, working out before starting my day, etc.) Well, that’s not entirely accurate. I do have a routine, which involves telekinesis, the “snooze” button, and amnesia.

We often associate routine with drudgery, sameness, and boredom. However, a routine can also be a powerful tool that brings order and effectiveness into your life. I however, consistently feel like I let a lot of time slip away.

But there’s plenty of time, isn’t there?

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As you may know, I believe house concerts are the most important opportunity for touring and performing artists today. Live music is consistently being marginalized (read: ignored) in public spaces, and people are generally more inclined to stay home to be entertained.

Over the past two years, it’s been my mission to spread the word about this opportunity - to artists, to music fans, and anyone else who might have an interest in seeing good art get appreciated.

I just found out today I may be running out of time.

I occasionally visit TED.com to take in some great, concise presentations on cutting edge ideas that are often very moving and inspiring. This one qualifies as a wake-up call. Here are the “Top 10 ways the world is likely to end.”

http://www.ted.com/talks/view/id/167

Enjoy! Then get to work. 8^)

Related Posts:

What is a house concert?

The New Reality of being a music artist.

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or…

Amphetamines and Setting Up Quickly

This just in…

Russ and Julie are one of the best-known and best-respected couples in the world of house concerts. Their series in Oak Park, California has presented hundreds of amazing performers over the past 11 years. One of their friends recently filmed Russ’ set up routine, covering most of what he does to re-arrange furniture and set up a small P.A.

Then they sped it up and condensed it to less than 5 minutes. At least that’s their story and they are sticking to it.

However, rumors of amphetamines and alter-egoes are circulating…

Enjoy!

PS - Russ, you missed a spot over there.

Related Posts:
Hosts of the Month
More about Russ and Julie

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