What Have You Learned From Mudcat in '99

Subject: What Have You Learned From Mudcat in '99
From: Rick Fielding
Date: 05 Jan 00 - 04:13 AM

Happy 2000 folks.

It occurred to me that other than meeting nice people (some personally) this year, I learned quite a lot by being part of the Mudcat community this year. Not just about music and related matters, but about myself as well. Some of the things that come to mind are:

A great thread discussing different kinds of wood used in instrument building. Lots of very useful information.

Evaluations of many different types of guitars, banjos, mandolins etc. by the folks that PLAY them, rather than company hype.

Even though they could get VERY heated, the threads on Ireland's problems were riveting, because once again it was the PEOPLE giving their opinions and not politicians manipulating the media (and us). I think I now understand the absolute passion involved a lot better.

Coming to the amazing realization that I could barely sleep, wondering if a man I'd never met (Catspaw, of course) was going to make it.

Somewhat (just a bit) changing my opinion on gun ownership after reading hundreds of postings on the subject (once again, because it was ordinary people discussing the subject, as opposed to politicians or NRA mouthpieces with totally predetermined agendas)

Most recently, regaining an interest in the fiddle because of a 4 day visit from a Mudcatter (Jeri)

I know there's quite a few more, and if this hangs around for a bit I'll share them, but if anyone feels like mentioning a few things, I'll pass on the space.

Rick

Subject: RE: What Have You Learned From Mudcat in '99
From:
Date: 05 Jan 00 - 08:38 AM

Understanding why people choose to post anonymously.

Subject: RE: What Have You Learned From Mudcat in '99
From: Allan C.
Date: 05 Jan 00 - 09:09 AM

I realized that the Mudcat is much, much bigger than just some faceless pseudonyms. (Actually, I had suspected it all along.) At Annap's first gathering and again at the Getaway, I got to see that without exception, Mudcatters are not only real, but are bigger than life.

It would be an understatement to say that I don't usually do well in groups. These events were totally different. I already knew many of the people and in many cases recognized them from their pictures on bbc's resource pages. This made things so very much easier for me. I was immeasurably more at ease. But of course the best part was being able to talk face-to-face without typing and to further cement friendships. Oh, and the music wasn't half bad either!

Subject: RE: What Have You Learned From Mudcat in '99
From: MMario
Date: 05 Jan 00 - 09:17 AM

So much...I'll have to come back when I have organized my thoughts. (yegads, that could take MONTHS!) -- but first and foremost - I learned that this world is both immensly smaller and vastly larger then I had ever imagined.

MMario

Subject: RE: What Have You Learned From Mudcat in '99
From: Bert
Date: 05 Jan 00 - 09:28 AM

Well bugger me, I was just thinking of starting a thread titled "Everything I needed to know I learned at Mudcat". The only reason I didn't was because some of us were being rather childish about BS threads.

Well I leaned what a "tiple" is
and how to SAY "bodhran"
and who to go to if I need a zoomorhic ocarina
and of someone who makes hammered dulcimers
and of someone who makes pots
and of someone who makes bead necklaces
and of someone who makes guitar straps
and
and
and

Bert.

Subject: RE: What Have You Learned From Mudcat in '99
From: Bill D
Date: 05 Jan 00 - 09:34 AM

....that I shoulda taken that speed reading course seriously when I had the chance...

Subject: RE: What Have You Learned From Mudcat in '99
From: Mbo
Date: 05 Jan 00 - 09:55 AM

Bert, a "tiple" is something I HAVEN'T leared here yet! I've seen it enough, but it's not in the dictionary, and I don't think it has anything to do with imbibing alcoholic bevarages...so what IS it?

--Mbo

Subject: RE: What Have You Learned From Mudcat in '99
From: alison
Date: 05 Jan 00 - 10:00 AM

NOOOOOOOO!!!!!!!........ you don't ask THAT question Mbo..... now someone will actually tell you..... I think there was a thread devoted to this...... but I'm scared it'll be refreshed.. and I'm off to hide behind the settee.........

slainte

alison

Subject: RE: What Have You Learned From Mudcat in '99
From: catspaw49
Date: 05 Jan 00 - 10:01 AM

Oh poor Meebo me laddie buck.......Your Mudcat education is not complete until you have read.......

THE INFAMOUS TIPLE THREAD

Spaw

Subject: RE: What Have You Learned From Mudcat in '99
From: alison
Date: 05 Jan 00 - 10:02 AM

hahaha... I wasn't quick enough....... you've been tipled.........

Subject: RE: What Have You Learned From Mudcat in '99
From: Bert
Date: 05 Jan 00 - 10:05 AM

Imagine a tenor guitar with multiple (two or three) strings per course. The only one I've seen had twelve strings arranged in four courses of three.

Others will be quick to step in with a more precise description.

Subject: RE: What Have You Learned From Mudcat in '99
From: Cap't Bob
Date: 05 Jan 00 - 10:06 AM

I know there are probably thousands, if not tens of thousands, of you out there who think that Leon Redbone and Mose Scarlett are one in the same person. I have seen them both in person and up until this year believed the only difference was in the name. Rick Fielding solved this mystery for me with the following e-mail:

Hi Capt'n Bob

Well, let me tell you. You've stumbled onto one of music's little mysteries here, so let me fill you in. Both Mose and Leon are of indeterminate age. They both play pool..one is really good, and the other is so bad that I beat him on a regular basis. They both own small Martin and Gibson guitars. Their voices ARE remarkably similar. Oh hell,..I could go on with the game but I'll be straight with you. They ARE two (very) different people. Mose lives in Toronto, Leon in Vermont. They are good friends, and I highly reccommend Mose's new album "The fundamental Things" on Borealis. I'm not sure who the accompanist was, but I'll ask Mose. One thing for sure. They're both great!

See ya "cat"

Rick

MY NEW PROBLEM, or mystery for the year is ~~~?~~~ does Rick always tell the truth?????

Cap't Bob

Subject: RE: What Have You Learned From Mudcat in '99
From: catspaw49
Date: 05 Jan 00 - 10:27 AM

Sorry alison......but it had to be done. I didn't refresh it you notice, just a blue clicky.

I could not begin to list what I have learned, musically or otherwise at this place. Nor could I describe the highs and lows that have affected me over the past year. As I move back to more of the business end of my life, I am amazed at how much more knowledgable I am in all phases of my life. To say that this is simply about music is to be one dimensional. Like Rick, I am humbled by all the collective knowledge assembled here in virtually every area. I'm not sure what could be asked that someone doesn't have an in-depth knowledge of.

Foremost, I have learned more of friendship than anything else. I have learned the warmth of collective good wishes and thoughts as no one else here. I have learned that our cyber-village is indeed a real place with real people and capable of showing them at their best and their worst, just as in the "real" world. I value the friends I have made here and thank Max for building this place for us to inhabit. My best to you all who have given me so much.

BERT--Didja' get Cleigh's e-mail? Sorry about the file size......But,uh Bert.......On that "Well bugger me" thing........like uh, I'd rather not, ya' know?

Spaw

Subject: RE: What Have You Learned From Mudcat in '99
From: Bert
Date: 05 Jan 00 - 10:33 AM

That's just a Cockney expression translates roughly to "I'll be danged"

Subject: RE: What Have You Learned From Mudcat in '99
From: JedMarum
Date: 05 Jan 00 - 10:42 AM

I learned that Brits very sometimes translate their expressions to the more pleasant 'cleanned up' versions, for us 'New Worlders.' As Bert would have you believe (above)that the Cockney term "bugger" have fock all ta do with a less commonly pratciced sexual behavior!

Subject: RE: What Have You Learned From Mudcat in '99
From: catspaw49
Date: 05 Jan 00 - 10:47 AM

LMAO!!!......yeah, I know Bert.....I guess I haven't learned yet to suffix the wisecracks with a smiley face!!! But that reminds me that I learned a lot about the "foreign" language of English in the past year!!!(:<)) (please note smiley face gizmo)LOL---Luv ya Bert!

Spaw

Subject: RE: What Have You Learned From Mudcat in '99
From: JedMarum
Date: 05 Jan 00 - 10:49 AM

Actually, in truth I have learned a lot, and that is why I came to Mudcat. Mostly I have learned important info about specific songs, where to find more info on the web, details about musical intruments, and, as Rick points out - heard valuable opinions about intruments from players. I have also gained a lot from hearing people's heart felt beliefs regarding more personal and political issues. And, along this line, I have learned how to express my heartfelt beliefs on some of those subjects to those who hold opposing points-of-view.

I must say, though - one of my favorite things about this forum is the humor! In nearly every thread, even those heated political discussions there usually shines a bit of humor.

Subject: RE: What Have You Learned From Mudcat in '99
From: folk1234
Date: 05 Jan 00 - 11:14 AM

I learned that Clinton never told a lie
I learned that soldiers seldom die
I learned that everybody's free
Except when we share their songs with thee
I learned that lawyers are my friends
I learned that justice never ends
I learned that plagiarist die for their crimes
Even if we make a mistake sometimes
I learned that war is not so bad
I learned about the great ones we have had
We fought in Seattle and the Balkans too
Mostly to save the face of a few
I learned that our government must be strong
Always right and never wrong
Our leaders are the finest men(?)
And so elect them again and again, and again, and again
And that's what I learned at the Cat this year,
That's what I learned at the Cat.

Sorry y'all. Before I was done reading the first post of this thread, this song came into my mind, and I just had to share it.
Nevertheless, I really did learn that Mudcat is truly a great community! Thanks for letting me a small part.

Subject: RE: What Have You Learned From Mudcat in '99
From: JedMarum
Date: 05 Jan 00 - 11:14 AM

Yep Spaw, I too have developed a bit more language skill, here at the Mudcat Forum. I am now bilingual; I speak English and American!

I notice, though much to my dismay, as I reread my posts, this place hasn't improved my typographic skills any!

Subject: RE: What Have You Learned From Mudcat in '99
From: Mbo
Date: 05 Jan 00 - 11:41 AM

Well, I can't begin to list all the important and interesting things I've learned here, and the interesting people I've met! As of yesterday, I have decided to become music incarnate. After that little (!)thread about how there should be more music like the old days and less BS--I say let the BS continue, but add more music, and more music, and MORE AND MORE MUSIC. I'm leading a revolution, who will join me? I'm knocking out Midis left and right--the Midi Page is going to be full to capacity by the time I get done!

One interesting thing noticed was Art Theime wishing the 'Cat was more scholarly, and I though "Yeah right! What can a 21-year-old who's only been into traditional music for 2 years teach someone who has many years of musical experience?" My answer yesterday: "LOTS!!!" There are songs and tunes I play that cannot be found on the net, and no one else seems to know. I want to share them with everyone starting now! The 'Cat has not heard the last of Mbo. And that's what I learned. Oops, gotta go post some song lyrics...

--Mbo (this message is ment in earnest, and is by no means ment to be taken humorously or sarcastically):{>

Subject: RE: What Have You Learned From Mudcat in '99
From: Danlbear
Date: 05 Jan 00 - 11:48 AM

I don't know if this counts, but today, I learned to keep my opinions to myself

Subject: RE: What Have You Learned From Mudcat in '99
From: JedMarum
Date: 05 Jan 00 - 11:56 AM

??Why Danlbear??

Subject: RE: What Have You Learned From Mudcat in '99
From: Danlbear
Date: 05 Jan 00 - 12:04 PM

lol...It prevents arguments. However this has not stopped me in the past. I've learned that arguing reinforces your own opinion, but does little to change anyone elses, so why create friction and animosity?

Subject: RE: What Have You Learned From Mudcat in '99
From: MMario
Date: 05 Jan 00 - 12:29 PM

Danlbear - I suspect I know what caused your comment above. One thing *I* have learned this year is that the written word is MUCH more subject to misinterpretation than is the spoken word.

Subject: RE: What Have You Learned From Mudcat in '99
From: Jeri
Date: 05 Jan 00 - 12:32 PM

I have learned there are many wonderful people out there, and have greatly enjoyed making friends and meeting many of them.

I've learned songs and about songs. I've learned about a singer and writer of songs - Keith Marsden - who has become one of my favorites. I wish he were still around. I've learned about quite a few performers who are Mudcatters.

I've learned that people sometimes like the tunes I write. I've been introduced to an easier way to write them by a Mudcatter.

I've learned about different lyrics sites, music programs, festivals, ICQ and Hamsterdance.

I've learned that I could play a guitar if I wanted to, although I never believed it was possible - Rick's fault.

I've learned that anything a person says can and probably will be argued with, and that most people are honest, but kind. I've learned to ignore the ones who aren't. I've also learned there are sometimes reasons to not post, and just because I can say something doesn't mean I have to. (Trust me - this one has been the hardest.) I've learned that Mudcatters, like everyone else, have buttons that can be pushed - some people will push them on purpose, some by accident, and some just feel what they have to say is important enough to risk it. I've learned how easy it is to misunderstand the written word. I've learned how easy it is to turn someone I disagree with into an enemy (instead of just a good person with whom I happen to disagree.)

I've learned a lot about music, but I've learned far more about myself and people in general in the nine months I've been here. In the end, it has all helped with the music.

Subject: RE: What Have You Learned From Mudcat in '99
From: Peter T.
Date: 05 Jan 00 - 12:45 PM

I have learned to avoid threads like this. As soon as I see a thread like this, I think: Oh, I'll stay away from this one, it will just eat up two hours while you think about it. Then I very tentatively open it, just for a peek, just so I won't miss anything, and then I see that it is started by Rick Fielding, so it must be worth considering. But I will still not post, or spend any time on it -- I have papers to grade, centuries of knowledge to expound, bureaucratic knots to work out. But it is an interesting question....I scribble a few thoughts. Many hours later, I am consumed by the meaning of "learning" -- What would it mean to say what I have learned any time, let alone on Mudcat....Then I am walking out in a beautiful iced over swamp, and am I contemplating eternal truths -- no, I am thinking, well, what have I learned....and so it goes. So the most important lesson I have learned is not to think about, or post on a thread like this.
yours, Peter T.

Subject: RE: What Have You Learned From Mudcat in '99
From: Dave (the ancient mariner)
Date: 05 Jan 00 - 01:17 PM

That there is more to the word GIG than a small boat Aye, knowledge is a wonderfull thing Mates, and (Mate'ettes) I hope the latter is not considered sexist? I would hate to offend anyone here Yours,Aye.Dave

Subject: RE: What Have You Learned From Mudcat in '99
From: Rick Fielding
Date: 05 Jan 00 - 02:31 PM

Hi Cap'n Bob. Scouts honour, Mose and Leon ARE two people. (But both LOVE the idea that folks think they may be one and the same.)

To answer your humorous question seriously (and no, I don't do THAT often) Yeah, for the last 14 years (since I discovered Quentin Crisp) I've tried to be pathologically honest. One of the things I HAVE learned on Mudcat is that the semi-anonymity encourages all of us to be extremely honest about what we think. Can cause a bit of havoc at times though, don't ya think? My personal Waterloo came when our resident nutbar said "I was discouraging people from learning music"! My hair stood straight up, and for an hour I was outraged...then all of a sudden, the outrage turned to laughter, and I thought, "Whew, as long as he doesn't move next door, I've got nothin' to worry about".

That's the way I treat the conflicts here. Had I gotten into a pissing contest with him (ya know..tit for tat, "your mother wears army boots", kind of thing, I'd have ended up dwelling on something that had NO relevance in my life away from the computer. My time's worth a heck of a lot more than that. On a more positive note however:

I got to hear wonderful music and non-music stories from Art Thieme, Mountain Tyme, Banjer, Peter T., Frank Hamilton, Katlaughing, Chet, Joe Offer, Mick Lane, and my favourite agnostic moral authority Sandy Paton. Many more of course, but it would take SO much time to credit them!

Oh, and I LOVED WYO's description of going to a band rehearsal!

Rick

Subject: RE: What Have You Learned From Mudcat in '99
From: Jon Freeman
Date: 05 Jan 00 - 05:52 PM

It's been more of a matter of "meeting" people and getting to know them than anything else for me and I have certainly met some great people here.

I am not sure what I have learned in terms of music as there is little that I can be specific about but I have picked up useful bits of information almost on a daily basis. Perhaps in my short time here, the theread I most enjoyed reading (one I didn't contribute to - perhaps that should tell me something) was the Indian vs Brazilian roswood thread. Incedentally, a similar question cropped up in rec.music.celtic afterwards and I was pleased to be able to point the poster to the discussion that took place here.

Danlbear, I guess your comments were refering to my reaction in one of the Mudcat Healing Circle threads. Firstly, don't let me or any one else stop you having or expressing your own opinions and secondly, I did react a little harshly and apologise for that. Having said that, within the context of the Mudcat Healing Circle threads and the related debates, I do stand by what I said even though on reflection, I sould not have direced my comments towards one person.

Jon

Subject: RE: What Have You Learned From Mudcat in '99
From: Margo
Date: 05 Jan 00 - 06:11 PM

Mudcat=Camelot

Subject: RE: What Have You Learned From Mudcat in '99
From: Joe Offer
Date: 05 Jan 00 - 06:21 PM

Well, I learned that in Y2K, I'm going to have to teach Fielding how to do blue clicky things. Rick, where the heck is that WyoWoman Band Practice thread??? It sounds too good to miss, and I missed a lot of good stuff last year because I was traveling so much.
-Joe Offer-

<a href=http://www.mudcat.org/>Click here</a>

Subject: RE: What Have You Learned From Mudcat in '99
From: Llanfair
Date: 05 Jan 00 - 07:04 PM

I have learned a lot about the people who populate this site, that I'm not the only person of a"certain age" who was a part of the great folk scare in the 60's and70's, and wants to learn more.
It's also helped me put my life in perspective, giving me the impetus to do what I want, not what is expected of me.
Oh, yes, it's also highlighted the cultural differences amongst us. Yes, us Brits tend not to be as affectionate or demonstrative as our American cousins.
Um, er, all the best, Bron.

Subject: RE: What Have You Learned From Mudcat in '99
From: bseed(charleskratz)
Date: 05 Jan 00 - 07:04 PM

Joe, that's one of the things I learned, but I keep forgetting it and have to run to one of your postings of it to get it back on my sticky.

I have learned a heck of a lot of songs and a lot about singers and songwriters. I have learned that it's best to proughfride but often forget, anyway. I doscovered Quinn's Lighthouse and the Starry Plough here--and met some terrific people in the course of discovery. I've learned the beauty of a capella voices--and have gained the confidence to present my own voice--from time to time--unclad in instrumental accoutrements. I've learned enough Aussie to know which door to use when presented with a choice between "blokes" and "sheilas." I've learned that Guinness doesn't need to be diluted 1:1 with Budweiser to be drinkable.

I've learned that b.s. threads are not always the most entertaining, particularly when most of the posters are anti-b.s. I've learned that what kills threads is not the people who post to them, but those who don't--who later blame those who do. Interesting.

--seed

Subject: RE: What Have You Learned From Mudcat in '99
From: Liz the Squeak
Date: 05 Jan 00 - 07:16 PM

Not to trust someone when they say there is no charge - witness my phone bill for over £200.00!!

That there are more ways of describing bollocks than even I knew, and that there are a lot of people out there who care about someone the other side of the world, even though they never have and are never likely to meet.

And that there are lots more people out there who have the same sense of humour (warped) as I do.....

LTS

Subject: RE: What Have You Learned From Mudcat in '99
From: Hummingbird
Date: 05 Jan 00 - 07:21 PM

I have learned some wonderful music, met some new friends, a much greater appreciation for folk music. I"ve learned alot from all of you!!!! Being a fairly green guitarist, there's alot to learn!!! HAPPY NEW YEAR TO ALL OF MY NEW FRIENDS.

Humingbird

Subject: RE: What Have You Learned From Mudcat in '99
From: JenEllen
Date: 05 Jan 00 - 07:51 PM

I've learned that for all it's ups and downs, the 'Cat is a resource of endless proportions. It's so wonderful that folks are willing to help and share to the extent that they do here. I've learned so much musically, and being able to talk shop and laugh with people that share the same interests is a real bonus. Hopefully for 2000, folks will be more willing to set aside differences and remember why we are here. Elle

Subject: RE: What Have You Learned From Mudcat in '99
From: Dave (the ancient mariner)
Date: 05 Jan 00 - 08:57 PM

At the risk of being accused of compulsive posting; may I echo Elle's sentiments. At the end of this festive season may I extend my thanks, for some enjoyable times with you all. I shall pop in from time to time, and keep playing the music ladies and gentlemen; it is truly a wonderfull gift to be able to do so. May we progress in wisdom as well as time and technology in 2000. I have the honour to be. Yours, Respectfully, Aye. Dave (the ancient mariner)

Subject: RE: What Have You Learned From Mudcat in '99
From: Big Mick
Date: 05 Jan 00 - 09:01 PM

I have learned of people with heart.......and my heart is gladdened by it.

I have learned music which has taken me to a higher place, and allowed me to share it with others that they may come along.

I have learned that growth is contingent on sharing yourself with others, and allowing them in to share themselves with you.

By the grace of people like Art Thieme, I have learned to pass it on.

I have learned there is a God, because people like Sandy & Caroline don't happen by accident.

And I have learned that I love this place and all its inhabitants.........Thank you.

Subject: RE: What Have You Learned From Mudcat in '99
From: Little Neophyte
Date: 05 Jan 00 - 09:02 PM

I have learned...........
That marring a musician may not be such a bad thing.
That musicians are kind and generous with their vast knowledge and experience.
From a loner's perspective, the Mudcat is a place I have learned to feel comfortable being involved with others in a community type setting.

Thanks Rick for creating this Thread

BB

Subject: RE: What Have You Learned From Mudcat in '99
From: Little Neophyte
Date: 05 Jan 00 - 09:03 PM

Big Mick, that was beautiful!

Subject: RE: What Have You Learned From Mudcat in '99
From: Rick Fielding
Date: 05 Jan 00 - 11:21 PM

Whoops, I dunno Bonnie. Musicians are pretty weird. Duckboots' last two boyfriends (before I met her) were a politician and a cartoonist. Come to think of it, they were probably pretty weird too.

I learned how to do a "blue clickey" from Peter T.

I learned that I have no intention of learning Gaelic 'cause it's too hard....but, I learned that "slainte" is NOT pronounced "slaint"!

I learned NEVER to get the flu before a concert in Washington. Too embarrassing to be throwing up in a basement while everyone is singing upstairs. By the way, thanks again folks for coming out. I truly appreciated it.

Rick

Subject: RE: What Have You Learned From Mudcat in '99
From: bbelle
Date: 05 Jan 00 - 11:57 PM

How is it pronounced? Everytime I see it written, I try to figure out its pronounciation.

I've learned that folk music did not die with disco. I've learned that I'm not always right and that I can rethink my opinion on something. I've learned that I shouldn't post when I'm irritable and that by not posting doesn't make me a wuss. I've learned it is possible to coexist in a large community of individuals who think differently. I've learned I can make it through a weekend at a large gathering sharing bed, bath, and bathrooms with others, and not feel the need for "space." I've learned that I can agree to disagree with an individual and retain the friendship. I've learned to step out of my comfort zone and "receive" friendship without suspicion. Unfortunately, this will take a few more mudcat years. I've learned to love again ... moonchild

Subject: RE: What Have You Learned From Mudcat in '99
From: WyoWoman
Date: 06 Jan 00 - 02:50 AM

I still haven't learned to do a blue clickie thing, but I'll admit that's because I haven't applied myself.

I have learned so much about music, in the details, and in general, I've been encouraged to actually start singing again. But more than that, to bravely say that I am a singer. I have been all along, but sort of in remission. Now, I'm full-blown and OUT THERE...

I've also discovered that, wherever human beans show up, human nature is sure to follow. And that's a good thing, and that's a bad thing, but that's certainly a sure thing.

And where, Rick, IS that band practice thread???

Wyowoman

Subject: RE: What Have You Learned From Mudcat in '99
From: Escamillo
Date: 06 Jan 00 - 03:46 AM

In the beginning.. I learnt the lyrics of a song I wanted to sing. Then learnt to appreciate such an open and generous friendship from people I had never met, learnt that discrimination is absent in this group, nobody asked me if I'm Christian, white, black, Jewish, single, married, folky, wether I, as an "Argie", support the Falklands invasion or the Ulster independence, or the like. My only concern was (as I posted in some thread) HOW you will know when I pass to the other life, and that's solved too.
And now I own a Rick's CD too. Un abrazo - Andrés

Subject: RE: What Have You Learned From Mudcat in '99
From: Rick Fielding
Date: 06 Jan 00 - 12:02 PM

I'm honoured Andres. Hope you like it.

Rick

Subject: RE: What Have You Learned From Mudcat in '99
From: kendall
Date: 06 Jan 00 - 02:15 PM

I am not really a "people person" more of a "person person" but, I cant think of one 'catter whom I wouldn't want to meet.

Subject: RE: What Have You Learned From Mudcat in '99
From: bill\sables
Date: 06 Jan 00 - 02:46 PM

One thing I learned is that not all Americans are like the ones shown on the Jerry Springer Show. They are a real friendly, caring lot of genuine people and I am hoping to meet many more of them as soon as I am able. Cheers Bill

Subject: RE: What Have You Learned From Mudcat in '99
From: Mbo
Date: 06 Jan 00 - 02:58 PM

Moonchild, it is pronounced "shloyn-tuh". See! There we go again, teaching each other new things, and learning new things. That's why we're here!

--Mbo

Subject: RE: What Have You Learned From Mudcat in '99
From: Magpie
Date: 06 Jan 00 - 03:03 PM

Well guys- it seems as if you've said it all. -I've learned about songs and tunes I never even knew existed.

-I've learned things about being dyslexic that I know will come in very handy in my job as an English teacher.

-I've learned that the Mudcat community is a warm, welcoming, generous and including place. I wouldn't be without it! Not just because you've welcomed and included ME, but because (almost) every time a newbie posts here, there is an ear-deafening roar of welcome from you all.

Thank you, Mudcatters!

Magpie

Subject: RE: What Have You Learned From Mudcat in '99
From: bbelle
Date: 06 Jan 00 - 04:19 PM

Mbo ... thanks for the pronounciation ... I will practice. I desperately want to learn to sing in Gaelic, but the language alludes me. Alison says to learn the words phonetically, but I don't know how to break them down that way. Hopefully, at the end of 2000, I can add "learned to sing in Gaelic" to my list ... moonchild

Subject: RE: What Have You Learned From Mudcat in '99
From: Mbo
Date: 06 Jan 00 - 05:32 PM

I'm getting there..."Far Am Bhi Mi Fhi," "Donal Agus Morag" and "Brig Og Ni Mhaille" are good to start learning...the pronunciation is clear, and the songs aren't too fast. I've got a bit of a handle on the language...but it's not like I have anyone to tell me if I'm saying it exactly right...maybe we could start a Gaelic lyrics pronunciation thread? And have our Gaelic speakers help us! Shall I venture?

--Mbo

Subject: RE: What Have You Learned From Mudcat in '99
From: Rick Fielding
Date: 06 Jan 00 - 05:45 PM

Since it's been pointed out that not all Americans are candidates for the Jerry Springer Show, I think I need to say that not all Canadians are like Bob and Doug MacKenzie from "The Great White North". Excuse me while I put on my toque and go to the corner for a sixpack and some back bacon, eh?

Oh and one other thing I've learned on Mudcat is to be a much better speller. Sometimes I've had to erase the same word five times til it looks right.

Rick

Subject: RE: What Have You Learned From Mudcat in '99
From: Jeri
Date: 06 Jan 00 - 05:47 PM

You could use HearMe, if you have a microphone on your computer.

Subject: RE: What Have You Learned From Mudcat in '99
From: Little Neophyte
Date: 06 Jan 00 - 07:44 PM

Is HearMe for spelling Jeri?
The Mudcat has also made me a much better speller too. But I enjoy looking up words in my pocket book dictionary.

To Post Or Not Too Post, that is an art in itself
Something I am still learning around here.

Subject: RE: What Have You Learned From Mudcat in '99
From: bbelle
Date: 06 Jan 00 - 08:19 PM

Mbo ... sounds like a good idea. How shall we begin? ...moonchild

Subject: RE: What Have You Learned From Mudcat in '99
From: Mbo
Date: 06 Jan 00 - 08:54 PM

How about first, trial and error? I'll find some stuff written in Gaelic, then you take educated guesses at how it's pronounced, I can throw in what little I know, and come up with a pronunciation, then ask an authority if we are close. I know basically all the sounds, but the problem is, they aren't constant, and sometimes are pronounced differently in different words. Very confusing. Maybe we could try that--though I'm sure there are better ways...BTW what is HearMe exactly? And would it work for us in learning Gaelic pronunciation over the net?

--Mbo (I think I should start a new thread on this...)

Subject: RE: What Have You Learned From Mudcat in '99
From: annamill
Date: 06 Jan 00 - 10:52 PM

It makes me sad that I cannot add anything here. Not because I haven't learned anything, but because I've learned so much! Music, instruments, IRELAND, people, Iceland, ... Jeez! I could go on for days..

Love, annap

Subject: RE: What Have You Learned From Mudcat in '99
From: Lenny
Date: 06 Jan 00 - 11:03 PM

As a long time lurker and occasional hesitant poster, I've learned that Mudcat sure goes in cycles. The last few days have been really interesting. A lot of good music topics and the other threads have been worthwhile as well. Not as clogged as before.
There are some exceptional writers here. Peter T and Richard Bridge among others.

Len Evans

Subject: RE: What Have You Learned From Mudcat in '99
From: Áine
Date: 07 Jan 00 - 12:35 PM

Dear Mbo and anyone else interested,

I'd be willing to help you with your Irish pronounciation using Hearme; however, we'll have to wait until my hubby's healing hands raise my C drive from the dead, hopefully, this weekend.

I'll warn you in advance that I speak the Ulster dialect of Irish, which pronounces words very differently from the other dialects. I do have a source I can contact for the Munster pronounciation and can put in a call to Mullingar in Co. Westmeath for the way they'd say it in Galway.

My email address is on bbc's resources page, and fortunately, I can still access my email on my hubby's computer. Send me a message and perhaps we can set up a mutually convenient time in the next week or so to get together for our first 'class'.

-- Áine

Subject: RE: What Have You Learned From Mudcat in '99
From: Hasek
Date: 07 Jan 00 - 12:41 PM

That music is life at it's finest............and in Rick Fielding's case.................at it's funniest !!!!!!!!

Mike Strobel

Subject: RE: What Have You Learned From Mudcat in '99
From: Danlbear
Date: 07 Jan 00 - 12:41 PM

Thanks Jon

Subject: RE: What Have You Learned From Mudcat in '99
From: bflat
Date: 07 Jan 00 - 12:46 PM

This is one of the nicest places to spend the most valuable of comodities--Time--and that's because the info is always interesting;the music depth is phenominal; the people are supportive of each other nearly always; even the tusseling is to provoke improvement; the humor-wierd and funny. You are a great bunch of LOONEY TUNES!

Subject: RE: What Have You Learned From Mudcat in '99
From: Jeri
Date: 07 Jan 00 - 12:47 PM

HearMe is a program where you talk into the mic on your computer and other people who are in the HearMe "chat" room actually hear you. If you have speakers, but no mic, you can listen in and type into the text box (there's a button).

The link to the HearMe thread is here - that should take you straight to Max's message with the clicky.

Subject: RE: What Have You Learned From Mudcat in '99
From: Duckboots
Date: 07 Jan 00 - 04:05 PM

I've learned something new right in this thread, Kendal made an interested distinction between a "people person" and "person person". I'd never thought of it before, but I think Rick and I would be "person persons". Thanks Kendal.

Duckboots

Subject: RE: What Have You Learned From Mudcat in '99
From: bbc
Date: 07 Jan 00 - 06:54 PM

Peter, like you, I intended to not post to this thread, but I read it, anyway. Jeri, I loved your 1st post here & agree w/ much of what you said. I think, for me, the biggest benefit of Mudcat has been in realizing an international community. I think this is probably the best thing the Internet has to offer. Unfortunately, our community is still made up of imperfect people, who communicate imperfectly. Let's work on what we have in common, folks, not on what divides us.

bbc

Subject: RE: What Have You Learned From Mudcat in '99
From: bbelle
Date: 07 Jan 00 - 07:13 PM

I, too, am a person person. Fortunately, for me, I've met a whole lot of person persons, who I call "friend." bbc is absolutely correct about working on what we have in common, not on what divides us. We are such a diverse group of individuals, with different ideologies and philosophies, but we all have in common a deep love for music. Perhaps we should concentrate on the music for a while and let the bruises heal ... shalom ... moonchild