Sunday, July 31, 2016

Musical Monday - Unsung Town Choir perform Hallelujah...

For the next few weeks, we are going to share a number of ideas to help choirs & singers be the best they can be.  Some ideas with be technical & others more practical based.  As we prepare to get back to our regular singing routines, some of these thoughts may be used as you get ready personally or to be used as a group.  I know I need to be reminded of some of the finer points so that we can be the best group of singers possible. 
Gareth Malone is my hero.  He has reached out to many groups who otherwise may never have had the opportunity or the inclination to sing in a choir.  He has shared his efforts with us on television and of course on YouTube.  
This is a group of people who although they enjoy music never saw themselves as singers.  Check out more about this group on YouTube when you click on the YouTube icon on the video below.  Look at the faces.  Wow!  This is what music can do!! 

Thursday, July 28, 2016

Thoughtful Thursday -The Ventures - Wipeout live in Japan 1966

Check out the suits.  Check out the simple technical sound.  Check out the awesome drumming.  How does it compare to the Surfaris on Monday?  Notice the difference?

Sunday, July 24, 2016

HOT Musical Monday - Wipe Out - The Surfaris

It is HOT even in England right now.  It makes you think of the beach and surfing songs.  This band the Surfaris are known for 2 songs, Surfer Joe & Wipe Out which were the 2 sides of one 45 rpm record.  Every drummer in the world has tried to play Wipe Out at one time or another.  Remember?

Thursday, July 21, 2016

Thoughtful Thursday - Story of My Life - ThePianoGuys

We bring who we are & our life experiences to any piece of music.  When there are no words, we either produce our own pictures or as here some lovely images are added for us.  The Piano Guys are SO good at this. 

Sunday, July 17, 2016

Musical Monday - We're The Superhumans | Rio Paralympics 2016

Oh my gosh.  This is a MUST watch, amazing video using music and singers, instrumentalists to introduce the paralympics and many of the athletes.  Thanks Elaine.  I know when I think I am having a bad day, this will make me think twice.  Success is indeed a state of mind. 

Thursday, July 14, 2016

Thoughtful Thursday - Epic Night! Featuring Rufus Wainwright + 1500 Singers sing HALLELUJAH!

Yes, Canadians can do the mass choir like no one else.  The OOO sounds are so right on.  I love the way they do the fugue like parts to the verses.  The sound in the old factory is just wonderful.  Look at the faces and see the enjoyment and pleasure all round.  Wouldn't you like to take part in one of these?

Sunday, July 10, 2016

Musical Monday - SEND MY LOVE - Adele - Patty Cake

The harmony is just lovely.  The group dynamic is wonderful.  But the hand percussion is totally amazing.  Thanks Norm.  This is fun.

Thursday, July 7, 2016

Thoughtful Thursday - Kiss Me Kate - Brush Up Your Shakespeare - Royal Albert Hall

At 8 our daughter went with her grandma & me to see Kiss Me Kate by the Windsor Light Opera.  The others on the bus were snoozing on the way home while Colleen sang this song most of the way back to Chatham.  Much later I got the opportunity to direct this musical.  This song is still one of my favourites.  Now, having this sung at Royal Albert Hall doesn't hurt.  I bet you will be singing this all day!  Just sayin'.

Sunday, July 3, 2016

Musical Monday - In Canada Chris & Dave Hadfield

Chris Hadfield is a Canadian astronaut who spent long months as the commander of the space station.  He used social media to connect with the world from space.  He also used his guitar and song.  Here he and his brother share their song about Canada.  We are so proud of all Chris has achieved.  He has shared all he has learned with the world and with children especially.  His pride in his country shines in this song with his brother.  Enjoy!