What Would You Do Differently?

Subject: What Would You Do Differently?
From: wysiwyg
Date: 01 Feb 01 - 12:28 PM

This is mostly a music thread, or will be if you all stay on topic for a change!

By way of introducing the topic, I'll say this first. Most of you know I have a broad and diverse e-mail correspondence with Mudcatters and others. Well, offCat we have been talking through an amazing array of difficult issues. And these have led me to pose a MUSIC QUESTION here at the Mudcat.

Which is, if you were to totally live your highest beliefs-- spiritual, political, moral, ethical-- whatever you call them--

What would you do differently IN YOUR MUSIC?

And what is the first change you would make?

~Susan

Subject: RE: What Would You Do Differently?
From: Wesley S
Date: 01 Feb 01 - 12:45 PM

I think I would have worked harder - at an earlier age - to get my lazy thumb in shape so I could play the fingerstyle blues like I like. That and I would have had more confidence in my abilities so that I could start the jug band/old time group that I've wanted to be in for the last few years. It will happen eventually but I wish I hadn't had the 20 year gap in my playing that hurt my abilities.

Subject: RE: What Would You Do Differently?
From: wysiwyg
Date: 01 Feb 01 - 12:49 PM

Wes, darlin'--

Oh no you don't!!! What would you do differently NOW???

~Ruthless

Subject: RE: What Would You Do Differently?
From: LR Mole
Date: 01 Feb 01 - 01:00 PM

Well, what I wish had happened had been playing with more folks, and thus learning more tunes,techniques, even instruments,maybe, and making more friends. But I really think that can't be rushed or forced.I wish I knew more jazz chordings on the guitar, too, but my first and second boxes didn't have necks that was possible on.

Subject: RE: What Would You Do Differently?
From: MMario
Date: 01 Feb 01 - 01:03 PM

probably not much differently - though if I were to totally live my beliefs, I doubt I would be around long. probably die of exposure very shortly.

Subject: RE: What Would You Do Differently?
From: Clinton Hammond
Date: 01 Feb 01 - 01:04 PM

Well, I'd never pander to a drunken audience again by playing Drunken Sailor, Farewell To Nova Scotia, or any of that other 'popular' crap say, that Great Big Sea has recorded... This of course would have to entail that I'd developed as a songwriter enough to be able to play folk clubs instead of pubs... I've seen the kind of $$ that guys like James Keelaghan and Garnet Rogers get at the end of a night, and -THAT'S- the life for me!!! 2+grand for a couple of hours of playing to a crowd that came to see you, and to hear the music you want to play... That's gotta be better than dealing with requests for Black Velvet Band 3 times a set!

so, that's what -I'd- do!

LOL!!!

Subject: RE: What Would You Do Differently?
From: mousethief
Date: 01 Feb 01 - 01:07 PM

Can't say I'd change anything. I'm certainly not "totally living" my highest ideals in every area, but in the music area I'm not terribly far off, I don't think. Practice more, perhaps.

Alex

Subject: RE: What Would You Do Differently?
From: Biskit
Date: 01 Feb 01 - 01:12 PM

I DO live my highest beliefs Susan, the only thing I would change musically,is I would take some lessons,...by the way, and I'll ask this again'cause I never got an answer last time I asked...are ya singin' my song???

Subject: RE: What Would You Do Differently?
From: wysiwyg
Date: 01 Feb 01 - 01:27 PM

Well, I believe that we all do the best we can to totally live our highest beliefs...

... but I don't know of any belief systems that suggest it is likely that we will actually achieve consistent perfection in doing so on this planet. So... if you were to TOTALLY LIVE your beliefs... what would you do differently from now on in your music?

~Pushy Broad~

PS-- Biskit, No. I have not sung much of anything since the fire. Until this week.

Subject: RE: What Would You Do Differently?
From: GUEST,Matt_R
Date: 01 Feb 01 - 01:31 PM

I wouldn't change anything. Except maybe, a good long spell of no-school free time, to put chords to all those The Move lyrics I have lying around.

Subject: RE: What Would You Do Differently?
From: Bert
Date: 01 Feb 01 - 01:31 PM

sing all the time

Subject: RE: What Would You Do Differently?
From: GUEST
Date: 01 Feb 01 - 01:32 PM

If I were to TOTALLY LIVE MY beliefs...it would not matter. I would be in Nirvana.

Subject: RE: What Would You Do Differently?
From: wysiwyg
Date: 01 Feb 01 - 01:35 PM

Guest, can you say more? Is there music in Nirvana? Where does it come from?

Oh... wait. OK. Assume you did totally live them... what would you change in your music and how would that get you toward (to) Nirvana?

~Really Asking

Subject: RE: What Would You Do Differently?
From: Midchuck
Date: 01 Feb 01 - 01:36 PM

Spend as much daily time practicing music, as I now do on the net (exclusive of legitimate, income-producing activity on the net); and vice versa.

Peter.

Subject: RE: What Would You Do Differently?
From: Allan C.
Date: 01 Feb 01 - 01:37 PM

As I understand the question, it has to do with what steps we would take from this day forward toward attaining our musical ideals, rather than discussing our pasts.

I am currently doing what my situation allows. I am continuing to collect instruments of a wide variety of types - I received my very own bass box last month. Now that I have figured out how to finger the keys in order to minimize the metallic, high-harmonic ringing, I am enjoying it immensely.

Whenever possible, I am continuing with my practicing on my stand-up bass. Of course, I am playing the guitar a little nearly every day.

David C. and a couple of other friends have been coming over to the house on a regular basis (weather permitting). With guitars, hammered dulcimer, banjo, dobro, etc., we are starting to make some very nice music together.

I have been writing and rewriting a few songs.

All in all, I would say that I am happy with what I am doing, given my circumstances. Perhaps my only regret is that I am unable to attend things such as Annamill's gathering, Higher Ground, Old Songs, etc.. Coupled with that is that I am currently unable to make a journey to the UK to tour around among the 'Catters there. However, I have already made arrangements to be at the next Getaway. That will certainly help in many ways.

Subject: RE: What Would You Do Differently?
From: wysiwyg
Date: 01 Feb 01 - 01:38 PM

Guest, wait, I didn't ask it right, let me try again... OK.

If you were to make a change in your music that reflects you totally living your beliefs, what change would land you in Nirvana?

~Really, Really Asking

Subject: Don't fix what ain't broke...
From: Bernard
Date: 01 Feb 01 - 01:43 PM

As Popeye would put it:

I yam what I yam and that's all that I yam...
(or as near as I can remember!)

I've tried being something else other than me on occasions, and the last time cost me my sanity, which I'm only just starting to get back.

Maybe this isn't quite the response I'm expected to give, but it's the truth - and that is my one belief...

Subject: RE: What Would You Do Differently?
From: wysiwyg
Date: 01 Feb 01 - 01:47 PM

I don't think there are any wrong answers to this.... I am just intensely curious about how everyone's belief systems relate to their music, and vice versa. And especially, at the moment, I am curious how our beliefs find their way into action in our music... or don't... and whassup widd-all-dat.

~Burning Interest!

Subject: RE: What Would You Do Differently?
From: little john cameron
Date: 01 Feb 01 - 01:52 PM

Weel Susan, ah think ah mentioned afore that ah'm daein a cd wi Dermot.This time ah'm gaun tae tae aw Scottish songs an a couple o recitations.Years ago when ah wis playin ah got sidetracked intae daein aw kinds of stuff.Ah had a great time bit ah think ah wis tryin tae be aw things tae awbody an the real me got lost in the shuffle.Noo ah dinnae care if onybody buys it or no. ljc

Subject: RE: What Would You Do Differently?
From: GUEST,Matt_R
Date: 01 Feb 01 - 01:54 PM

I know what would land be in Nirvana! To come as I am, smelling like teen spirit. And to take my lithium. Oh nevermind.

Subject: RE: What Would You Do Differently?
From: wysiwyg
Date: 01 Feb 01 - 01:56 PM

I'd be singing all the time, too.

~S~

Subject: RE: What Would You Do Differently?
From: MMario
Date: 01 Feb 01 - 02:00 PM

Music is probably the area of my life in which I come closest to totaly living my beliefs. It is also the area of life through which I most closely express my beliefs. It is also the area through which I examine and scutinize my beliefs.

Subject: RE: What Would You Do Differently?
From: Dave (the ancient mariner)
Date: 01 Feb 01 - 02:07 PM

I would learn to play an instrument.

extra posting deleted by a joeclone

Subject: RE: What Would You Do Differently?
From: mousethief
Date: 01 Feb 01 - 02:09 PM

Dave, first learn to use the keyboard of your computer you stupid f**king --- no, wait. Wrong thread. Sorry.

Subject: RE: What Would You Do Differently?
From: mousethief
Date: 01 Feb 01 - 02:10 PM

Oh, and I'd stop skipping choir practice.

Subject: RE: What Would You Do Differently?
From: Jon Freeman
Date: 01 Feb 01 - 02:13 PM

This may sound crazy espeially in my new attempt at trying to find Christ again but I just never would have been born- that is what I would do differently, simply no me. I am desparate and no one understands. I want to kill myself and dont have the guts.

Jon

Subject: I wish I could help, but know I can't...
From: Bernard
Date: 01 Feb 01 - 02:29 PM

Sorry, Jon.

I've been there very recently, and there's nothing anyone can say that helps... ...and there's no guarantee that I won't end up being there again.

However, I sincerely hope that, having met you once, I'll have the opportunity to meet you again.

Good luck, mate...

Subject: RE: What Would You Do Differently?
From: Dharmabum
Date: 01 Feb 01 - 02:36 PM

Well Darlin, As you know,after losing/regaining the use of my hands a number of times over the years,I think I can truly say I know what it's like to embrace every note,to cherish every chord.
The fact is,when I'm playing music,I'm probably living as close to my true beliefs as I can possibly get.

Ron.

Subject: RE: What Would You Do Differently?
From: wysiwyg
Date: 01 Feb 01 - 02:41 PM

Jon, if that's the answer that comes to mind today, that's what you have to work with.

I'd have to say that what you call guts... is not something I would want you to have more of. So, how could your music make you even more "gutless"?

I'm not being flip, I promise. If you were to face in the direction of not being able to kill yourself, what would be the next, possible step toward life, and how might your music be involved?? Cuz I'll tell you one thing I know for sure-- I've heard you play, and that is defintely the music of a human being crackling with LIFE. IMNSHO.

YMMV. But I hope not.

(I think you actually have a lot of real courage, which IMO is what sticking around and trying to live each day takes in full measure.)

~Susan

Subject: RE: What Would You Do Differently?
From: Jon Freeman
Date: 01 Feb 01 - 02:43 PM

Bernard, good luck to you it was a pleasure meeting you and even in my dark mode, I would like to think that I will meet you again.

Jon

Subject: RE: What Would You Do Differently?
From: wysiwyg
Date: 01 Feb 01 - 02:49 PM

Ron... so then, are you playing enough?

If not, what would be the first change you'd make?

~S~

Subject: RE: What Would You Do Differently?
From: wysiwyg
Date: 01 Feb 01 - 02:56 PM

And I would use what I got instead of waiting to have what I ain't. A place I could have played and learned how to actually performed, at little or no risk, just closed its doors.

It sure is hard to look at this question without blame, shame, and regret, and just exercise responsibility.

~S~

Subject: RE: What Would You Do Differently?
From: Dharmabum
Date: 01 Feb 01 - 03:22 PM

Susan...Yes ,always enough,sometimes(though rarely)too much,but never not enough.
There's never a time or place when we're not subject to the harsh realities of our lives & surroundings. Music ,for me at least,works as a helluva good filter to take some of the bitterness out of it.

Ron.

Subject: RE: What Would You Do Differently?
From: McGrath of Harlow
Date: 01 Feb 01 - 03:56 PM

Think a bit more about what I might be doing in advance, so that I'm better prepared to sing the best song for the time and place, rather than just the one that I know I can do ok once again.

Subject: RE: What Would You Do Differently?
From: Art Thieme
Date: 01 Feb 01 - 04:58 PM

I truly don't think I'd do anything differently. I was true to my dream.

Right now, though, I'd be searching for some kind of a musical Viagra pill that'd resurrect my current musical inabilities and get those to, at least, where they were when I thought I had something to show to the world -- and folks thought that what I had might be worth paying to hear once again.

Art Thieme

Subject: RE: What Would You Do Differently?
From: wysiwyg
Date: 01 Feb 01 - 05:16 PM

Art, you might want to talk to Dharmabum about that, actually.

~S~

Subject: RE: What Would You Do Differently?
From: Naemanson
Date: 01 Feb 01 - 07:04 PM

I'd quit my job.

Then I'd open the house every night to musical friends who just need a place to get together with other musical friends.

Then, I'd shamelessly sit in on every session learning as much as I can while soaking up the vibes of friends making music. Friends making music together isn't like making love but it's as close as you can get and not handle another person.

Subject: RE: What Would You Do Differently?
From: GUEST,ceitagh
Date: 01 Feb 01 - 07:28 PM

I'd sing and play and whistle for other people even when i feel i'm not very good. i'd keep practicing even when i'm frustrated 'cause i can't sound like i want to. I wouldn't demand instant perfection from myself.
I'd learn guitar and enough about music to be able to arrange accompaniments to my songs.
I'd write songs for someone other than myself.
I'd write love songs for God. Seriously. I have a real block here and I'd love to surpass it and write something that speaks in a real way of my spiritual journey.

I know I haven't been around here for a bit...i've been really busy growing and i'm afraid the 'cat has fallen by the wayside. thanks to susan and matt for not ever forgetting about me. :-)
Kate

Jon...i miss your music, it seems like forever since the days when i would spend all evening on hearme. I wrote a song i wish you could hear.

Ceit

Subject: RE: What Would You Do Differently?
From: Jon Freeman
Date: 01 Feb 01 - 07:48 PM

Ceit I wish I could hear. You are IMO a great writer. I have one of yours on a tape by Matt and it is my favourite of all of the songs on the tape.

As for me, I think I was born with music. I especially love the dance music and am insane enough to see little dancers in my head when I am playing well - they tap along to the rythym and I love making them happy!

Jon

Subject: RE: What Would You Do Differently?
From: wysiwyg
Date: 01 Feb 01 - 08:06 PM

Jon, you won the sweetest smile I have given anyone all day long, and it has been a day replete with loving smiles and rich savoring of friendships.

When I hear old Cab Calloway type music, I see videos. I see little vignettes that go with the music, especially when it is instrumental. Maybe your little people and my pre-war-costumed people will meet in mid-ocean.

Kate... e-mail me. We can get rid of that block with God's help, I am sure of it.

~S~

Subject: RE: What Would You Do Differently?
From: GUEST,khandu
Date: 01 Feb 01 - 08:22 PM

I would dust off the many Gospel songs that I have written, polish them and send copies to all that I think would be blessed by them. In recent years I have written strange stuff with Gopel overtones (in most of it), yet, the old ones were blatantly Jesus oriented.

Amazingly, whenever I sing one of those old ones, my voice (which is quite pitiful!) takes on a New strength.

Wonder why? ;-)

khandu

Subject: RE: What Would You Do Differently?
From: Spud Murphy
Date: 01 Feb 01 - 09:18 PM

Naemason: We did that during the thirties when I was a runt. We called it 'The Depression.'

Spud

Subject: RE: What Would You Do Differently?
From: Matt_R
Date: 01 Feb 01 - 10:09 PM

I think I'm really tired of what I COULD have done. I've always got to look to the future. That's where it all is. To infinity and beyond, you know?

And Hi Kate, though I know you may not be around to read this. I'll never forget you!!!! EVER!

--Matt

Subject: RE: What Would You Do Differently?
From: GUEST,khandu
Date: 01 Feb 01 - 10:20 PM

Jon, I admire you. I respect you. I have gotten great benefit from your input for the months I have been here. I also relate to your struggles.

I offer you my hand and heart in you struggles. You can E-mail me at [e-mail] if you would like to discuss this further.

Whether you accept this offer or not, you have my prayers.

khandu

Subject: RE: What Would You Do Differently?
From: pict
Date: 01 Feb 01 - 10:24 PM

I wouldn't change a thing I know the path I've taken musically is the right one for me.

Subject: RE: What Would You Do Differently?
From: Jim the Bart
Date: 01 Feb 01 - 10:36 PM

I want to open a coffeehouse/folk center, here in Roselle. These poor suburban folk don't realize what a wasteland this is and the kids need somewhere to go. I want it to be a place where people get together in the flesh and do what we're doing here on the 'cat - keeping the flame burning by rubbing ideas together. I mean, of course, that good flame that represents life in its fullest extent. And I'd have to invite you all to come and sit for a while and play and talk and dream.

Jon - If I thought that opening the place I envision would help you find the joy and comfort that you deserve, I'd do all I could to open it tomorrow. As it is, I will need to plan a little more and work a little harder before I get to that place that Susan is so insistant that we envision. Meanwhile, hang in there.

g'night, gentle folke
Bart

Subject: RE: What Would You Do Differently?
From: GUEST,washtubbass.go.coolebiz
Date: 01 Feb 01 - 10:48 PM

i should throw everything away and leave town... travel the world with my music... play to live the world thru... --------------------------- i'm afraid... scared of regrets of having nothing but memories... drag... NOW i'm scared of creating LAME memories... thanx for nuthin / i'm going to bed...

Chris

Subject: RE: What Would You Do Differently?
From: wysiwyg
Date: 01 Feb 01 - 11:09 PM

Aw, yer all sweeties. I'm off fer bed too. I had me a BIG breakthrough today and now I'se all wore out. And music is part of it.

Bart... I used to live in Northbrook. Wasteland?? Northbrook!! So, like, you know, I mean, yeah!?!-- DO IT, please! If ya thought I was insistent before... just remember the plaintive cry of the wacko formerly known as Praise.... "Northbrook!! Not another Northbrook!! Save us all from Northbrook!"

(shaking her head, giggling softly, heading for bed)

~Susan

Subject: RE: What Would You Do Differently?
From: GutBucketeer
Date: 02 Feb 01 - 12:09 AM

Well, this is an interesting question. My question back to you is: with or without the constraints of life as I now know it (making a living, family committments, keeping the house fixed, etc.).

I grew up in a musical desert (my home), and didn't discover the joy of !!!!! MUSIC !!!!! until late highschool and on into college. I was learning songs, and my non-instrument instruments (gut bucket, jaw harp, bones, harmonica). Then I went to graduate school, and hit a fork in the road. I was away from my friends that liked the same type of music and doing it "live", and I emersed my self in academics. My "music" was my little secret.

The hiatus lasted 15 years during which I took on the trappings of responsibility. Yes, wife, dog, house, cars, lawnmowers, kids.... It wasn't until I started singing to the kids everynight that I re-discovered what had slipped away. While I see it as a returning, I think my wife looks at it sometimes as cult emersion. Since then, I have learned autoharp, and started banjo, and sing anytime and everywhere.

So, If I had it to do over again. I would never have let MUSIC slip away in the first place. This would have rippled throughout my life, primarily (I believe) in leading me to a spouse that also follows the muse. I really do envy couples that share in making music together.

Given, where I am in life today, I would say that to be true to me I would be on the computer less and practice more. The internet just sucks the time away. Once the kids are a little older and out of baseball, soccer, scouts, etc. etc. etc. I would also like to start going to jams, or even be in an old time group. All it takes is time.

Whew.. I wrote more than I intended.

Over and Out.

JAB

Subject: RE: What Would You Do Differently?
From: GUEST,ohmyGodi'velostmycookieagain
Date: 02 Feb 01 - 01:19 AM

Susan,thanks for the invitation,although using your link has left me cookieless.

If I could live my life according to my beliefs, I would be playing music and singing full time.Not necessarily as a professional, though that would be nice. I would want to be in front of people daily, singing those songs that inspire me so that I might create those feelings in others. Be it love, happiness,sadness, the blues,aching for love lost, whatever.

I would be playing and singing with others as their music inspired me to feel their emotions.To learn new songs.To earn new music. To meet new people.

To go on that never-ending Mudcat adventure where I travelled around the world to meet every Mudcat member in the flesh and ply music till the sun came up in every corner of the world.

While I'm a long way from being able to do that, I'm closer musically than I was 10 years ago.Mainly from the point of view that the group I play with regularly is constantly moving forward with the music we do. And that music (praise and worship music at my church) is closer to my belief system than I've been in a long time.

rr

Subject: RE: What Would You Do Differently?
From: Rick Fielding
Date: 02 Feb 01 - 01:19 AM

Yup, I know what I'D do differently. I wish I hadn't spent 20 years of my life playing everything from soup to nuts in bars six nights a week. It took me til 40 to realize I was a folky through and through. For the last 13 years I've been teaching and ONLY playing gigs where the audience KNOWS folk music. It's kept me from going crazy!

Rick

Subject: RE: What Would You Do Differently?
From: English Jon
Date: 02 Feb 01 - 03:47 AM

I try, as far as is possible to live to the highest moral and ethical standards. I don't always succeed, but I was brought up proper, like. Musicaly, I try to present folk music (by which I mean English trad. material) in as honest a way as possible. If a song's provenance is uncertain, I will try and take a balanced view if it has any potential bearing on the performance. Politically, I am a socialist, for moral/ethical reasons, but I don't do party politics. Just not interested. I do a few songs dealing with social injustices, and a few fox hunting songs. I don't approve of fox hunting, but there are some good songs, part of the tradition etc. If I had to make a choice, It would be for the Lib/dems, except that I think de-criminalising Cannabis is probably not a particularly good idea, health wise. Hence, I don't do Dope songs. Nor do I condemn those who do, it's just not part of my life/performing repetoire. I'm going to start a new thread in a bit: Something along the lines of "At start of Career, Guidance?" I would love to know what Catters think makes a good performance, in all senses of the word (Good). In fact, I'll do that now and avoid thread creepage.

Subject: RE: What Would You Do Differently?
From: Naemanson
Date: 02 Feb 01 - 06:32 AM

Yeah, Spud, and those were hard times. The problem with people today is that most do not experience the hard times. They are fat dumb and happy so they listen to a stereo or go out to concerts. The rest have the hard times but don't have the release of good neighors sharing good music. There is a big difference between sitting around listening to a stereo and sitting around MAKING the music yourself. The latter brings people together.

Matt, I don't know how to break this to you but you're a kid. Kids are SUPPOSED to look to the future. Leave it to us old farts to look at the past with longing. The handicap a kid has is they are living the past that we would like to change. We you reach our exalted age you will look back and pick out a few things you'd like to change. My blessing on you is a wish that, when that time comes, you find there is little you would change.

Bart, as the Nike ad used to say, JUST DO IT! Go to the local Unitarian Church and ask them if they would host the coffeehouse as a fund raiser. You will be volunteering to do all the work, they provide their common room. Print up some posters and you are in business. You'll be surprised how many people show up but don't get discouraged. It will take a few months, maybe even a year. Keep at it and you will have that dream.

Jon, last night when I first read through this thread I was feeling as you were when you first posted. Yesterday was the anniversary of the greatest betrayal of my life and I was down in the dumps. But life will be better. That is a fact but the only way to prove it is to hang in there and experience it. And remember your friends on the Mudcat who would miss you if you weren't there.

JAB, you and I have similar experiences where it comes to music. I grew up singing and listening to folk but lost it in high school. I didn't rediscover it until my thirties. If I could chang the past I would never have left it.

Subject: RE: What Would You Do Differently?
From: mkebenn
Date: 02 Feb 01 - 06:56 AM

Praise{I still like that best}, Your question is timely to say the least. The music I love{and it's a weird mix} has always been close to my heart. I've been "sidetracked" by making a living etc, but in truth I've lacked determination and I've spent far too much time killing my desires with assorted beverages. I have not played in public in ten years, and it was another ten before that. I find that if I spend anytime playing, the rewards are great. Thirty five years of storing ideas and tunes and all they need now is polish and they will shine. What would, could, MUST I do now is quit smoking and get a mic so I can join in at paltalk, hit a couple of local open mics to get my feet wet again, and then play. I'm fifty one years old now, and as I watch my father fade, I see myself in that position. I must move now, as time is fleet indeed.. Love and God Bless..Mike Bennett

Subject: RE: What Would You Do Differently?
From: LR Mole
Date: 02 Feb 01 - 09:01 AM

Hm. I'd Get closer to the nexus of music and meaning, but that's where I'm headed anyway. Grab the strings, look over the top of my ego and see if there's any generosity left,back there. Ponder the freedom within connections (like the infinity of time between chords in a song).A step's a step, in a journy or a dance, and a note's a note, either sung or written to someone. Too early in the morning to think this hard. Off to teach about poor F.Scott Fizgerald...

Subject: RE: What Would You Do Differently?
From: little john cameron
Date: 02 Feb 01 - 09:24 AM

Rick,if you had not played in Steeles we would not have met.I would not have met Alan.We would not have gone to Montreal.Ralph and i would not have come to Nfld.I would not have settled here.I would not have got on T.V. ETC. So it is all your fault. ljc

Subject: RE: What Would You Do Differently?
From: Midchuck
Date: 02 Feb 01 - 09:28 AM

MkeBenn, a mic that is adequate for PalTalk costs about 4 to 5 packs of cigarettes, in your local (USA) Wal-Mart.

Peter.

Subject: RE: What Would You Do Differently?
From: GUEST
Date: 02 Feb 01 - 10:19 AM

Thanks, Peter, meaning taken. Mike

Subject: RE: What Would You Do Differently?
From: GUEST,Bun
Date: 02 Feb 01 - 10:22 AM

What would I do differently?

learnt to spell and probably just about everything
bun

Subject: RE: What Would You Do Differently?
From: GUEST,Guest, WYSIWYG
Date: 02 Feb 01 - 10:31 AM

After weeks of trying this and that, and having corrupt cookies, at last I can sign in as a guest!

I treasure all these replies. I wish I had time to reply to each and every one, right now, but you really don't need for me to do that. But let me offer this-- when the dream seems faint, when the obstacles seem real, when the regret at what you have not done is keeping you from doing what you can, in the present moment-- write to me, if you want a hand being pried out of the rut. Remember this thread and simply click to my e-mail.

I believe in each and every one of us, you see, and one thing I know I can do any time is help stretch wings when they get cramped and brittle. It helps my music, to help others; so you see, it all fits together.

(Click HERE to e-mail me.)

~Susan

Subject: RE: What Would You Do Differently?
From: John Hardly
Date: 02 Feb 01 - 01:06 PM

I suppose to be honest to what I truly believe I'd probably quit playing guitar. It seems to be something I'm incapable of sharing--either by life's timing, opportunity, or my general suckitude. It's therefore a distraction from things I could better pour my energies into and an endless source of frustration (constant reminder of yet another thing at which I'm mediocre<<<------hey, at least I know how not to end a sentence with a preposition. (if the last word of a sentence is "preposition" is that the same thing??)...

...I probably won't quit

Subject: RE: What Would You Do Differently?
From: GUEST,~Susan
Date: 02 Feb 01 - 01:15 PM

JH--

Pooh! Pish and tosh!! The only reason you have not shared it yet is that it isn't time yet, and that I have not called you to learn that tune we talked about before our little housefire here derailed all my time and plans.

Plus, have you considered that some other part of your belief system might just apply? What does your belief system say about music anyhow? Huh? Go see... come on... you know where I'm going with this!

*G*

~Susan

Subject: RE: What Would You Do Differently?
From: Clinton Hammond
Date: 02 Feb 01 - 01:19 PM

Ya rick! That's what I'm talkin' about!

;-)

Subject: RE: What Would You Do Differently?
From: GUEST,Melani
Date: 02 Feb 01 - 01:25 PM

I'd be braver--play instruments in front of people, instead of only in closets.

By the way, my aunt used to live in Northbrook. It's a hotbed of culture and tradition compared to my hometown, Prospect Heights.

Subject: RE: What Would You Do Differently?
From: Marion
Date: 02 Feb 01 - 01:36 PM

Praise:

Hmm... I'm a Christian. If I were a better Christian, I would have to stop making bootleg copies of sheet music and recordings - that would affect my musical life.

Also, there's definitely an element of pride (in the seven deadly sins sense) in my musical life. If I were a better Christian, I would probably have less desire to perform and hear applause, and when playing with others, I would have less desire to play fancy and be more happy to just keep strumming chords and let others shine.

If I were a better Christian, I would play less music. I find that there is a conflict between music and God for who will be my first love. The balance between how much of my time goes to practice and how much goes to prayer, meditation, and service of others would have to shift drastically if I decided to really put God first in my life.

For example, many Sundays I have the choice between two churches: going to mass, where my soul is nourished, or going to a United service, which feels more like a meeting than church to me BUT the choir likes to have me bring my fiddle and play descants to their hymns. (No offense intended to Protestants here - I don't mean to even remotely suggest that your services don't feed YOUR souls). I consistently choose the "gig" over the opportunity to commune with God.

Actually, if I really wanted to follow Jesus, I wouldn't be able to play my instruments at all, because I would have to sell them and give the money to the poor. Though I could still sing and write songs if I did that, I'm not planning to do it any time soon.

Jon Freeman:

Jon! Are you getting somebody to help you? Suicidal fantasy is a great big symptom for clinical depression, which is not a "mode" but a disease that responds to medical intervention. Jesus and friendly support will help, but not nearly as much as the right therapy/drugs will. Depression is not something to be trifled with - it is often fatal - and it isn't up to you to just get over it anymore than victims of other diseases should be expected to just tough it out. Please let us know what you are doing about getting help for yourself - your post was frightening.

Marion

Subject: RE: What Would You Do Differently?
From: Little Hawk
Date: 02 Feb 01 - 04:25 PM

Susan - You asked: "if you were to totally live your highest beliefs-- spiritual, political, moral, ethical-- whatever you call them-- What would you do differently IN YOUR MUSIC?"

Okay. I find that the main problem is that my beliefs keep shifting and changing. My focus keeps changing. I am interested in so many things that I can't keep up with all of them, and I can't decide whether to commit to this or that or the other, so I bounce around between them...and none of them get done according to my highest concept of what I would like to achieve in that regard.

It's frustrating.

It's one thing to talk about your HIGHEST beliefs, but how much of that is projection...or wishful thinking...based on vague desires and sssumptions around some theoretical ideals...which may seldom actually be put to the test in daily life?

I think it might be more useful to examine one's CORE beliefs...one's underlying beliefs that are taken for granted. It is from those beliefs that one tends to act. So...if you believe that money is the most vital factor in life, for instance, your behaviour will be very much affected by that. This is true of probably a majority of people nowadays.

Therefore, I would suggest that their ruling god in that case IS money. So they have a lot of faith in what money can do for them...and a lot of fear regarding what may happen if money (their chosen god) turns its back on them, and they don't have enough of it!

I know this worries me a great deal, and I am not the most prime example of this type of person, but still it is on my mind a lot.

Then there's aging. People worry about getting old. That's another core belief that affects people's consciousness daily, and yet the highest esoteric teachings suggest that we are potentially ageless and timeless beings in our true nature.

And there's love and friendship...and loneliness. If people truly believed in God they would never feel alone, now would they? Unless, maybe, they figured that they weren't worth having God's company? I bet there are a lot who feel that way. I have felt that way at times, but I know it's an illusory feeling, because everyone is entirely worth God's company...or they would not be here in the first place.

My "Highest Beliefs"? Well, like I said, they keep changing...or my consciousness of them keeps changing. The only thing I can say for sure is that my highest beliefs are generally revealed in my songwriting, and how I sing the songs. That changes too, because sometimes I go through a period where I don't do any writing for awhile.

I don't find any easy answer to your question.

- LH

Subject: RE: What Would You Do Differently?
From: GUEST,~S~
Date: 02 Feb 01 - 04:45 PM

Yup!

Subject: RE: What Would You Do Differently?
From: John Hardly
Date: 02 Feb 01 - 07:40 PM

Marion,

There once was a shepherd who owned two collies.

Tipper's sole goal in life was communion with the shepherd. Day after day she could be found laying by his side, comforted by the nearness of the sound of him, his smell nearby, the occasional pat on the head.

Pip was the more typical border collie--he loved to chase sheep. He could always be found far from the shepherd, a streak of black and white against the green background of the most distant hills. With a slight whistle from the shepherd, off he'd head toward another straying sheep.

In which collie did the shepherd find more pleasure? (I assume no wrong answer)

Ironic

Tipper, who wanted nothing more than communion settled for what she took.

Pip, who favored a vantage point from which the shepherd was hardly visible, nonetheless had daily non-stop communication in those almost imperseptible whistles from his master.

If you play music anywhere nearly as well as you write on the mudcat forum (there is nobody who posts on this forum whose thoughts I enjoy reading more than yours)I would respectfully suggest that you stay on that distant hill--betcha God put(s) you there.

JH

Subject: RE: What Would You Do Differently?
From: Dave Wynn
Date: 02 Feb 01 - 09:08 PM

I wouldn't pay lip service to songs any more . I would sing and play each song like it was written and intended to be sung. I would reach and grasp for the heart of a song or tune , every time I played or sang it.

That way Black Velvet Band and Wild Rover would never lose their heart for me and I would be happy playing to all crowds large or small , attentive or not.

Jon...Please keep having those birthdays...your post disturbed me too. I looked over that abyss many years ago and know a little of what you feel. It got better for me. I hope it does for you too.

Spot.

Subject: RE: What Would You Do Differently?
From: GUEST,~S~
Date: 02 Feb 01 - 09:25 PM

Nice doggies... nice.

~Sugar Dog

Subject: RE: What Would You Do Differently?
From: Little Hawk
Date: 02 Feb 01 - 09:50 PM

Marion - I think that playing music IS communing with God, as are a multitude of other activities, so in order to commune with God more, why not play more music? Any worthwhile activity can become communion with God, not just activites of an outwardly "religious" sort, such as being in church or praying.

As for selling everything and giving the money to the poor..well, then you'd be poor too. Then what? What next? I don't think it would actually help, but I do think that a general sharing of things among people on a more equal basis across the whole of society would help.

- LH

Subject: RE: What Would You Do Differently?
From: Matt_R
Date: 02 Feb 01 - 10:05 PM

Wait...if I haven't "done" it...how can I do it differently?

Subject: RE: What Would You Do Differently?
From: pict
Date: 02 Feb 01 - 10:35 PM

Jon Freeman keep going it's worth it you only get one kick at the ball make it count.

Subject: RE: What Would You Do Differently?
From: rangeroger
Date: 02 Feb 01 - 11:31 PM

Marion, Little Hawk stated my sentiments also.My music is my communing with God. My gigs are at church as a member of a praise and worship band. I meditate and pray with my music. Particularly when I'm alone I use my guitar as the medium to bring me closer to Him.

Do I play other music? You betcha. and I will listen to most anything. There are genres of music I don't like, but there is so much good music out there,that I can't ignore any of it.

rr

Subject: RE: What Would You Do Differently?
From: Marion
Date: 07 Feb 01 - 11:35 PM

Thanks to those of you who responded to my post - sorry for leaving it so long, but I've been distracted by some other threads.

I've heard the concept before that you can play your music to God as a prayer, but I haven't understood it. How can you think about God at a time like that? I guess I have to concentrate so hard on getting the job done right. On the other hand, when playing with others I sometimes have a feeling of communion with them - so maybe that's something like the religious ecstasy that some find in music.

(Actually there was a guy in my community who was studying to be a priest and who once borrowed my guitar to use in his prayers. I never did ask what exactly he had done with it - but the guitar came back out of tune.)

Little Hawk, I wonder what Jesus would have said if the Rich Young Ruler had said "but then I'd be poor too."

John, thank you for your kind words about my postings. I never would have expected that. I am definitely not God's gift to music (no pun intended), but I like it.

Marion

Subject: RE: What Would You Do Differently?
From: wysiwyg
Date: 07 Feb 01 - 11:45 PM

Marion... I could tell you, and with some degree of detail, but not here. In e-mail?

(Click HERE to e-mail me.)

~Susan

Subject: RE: What Would You Do Differently?
From: CarolC
Date: 07 Feb 01 - 11:57 PM

I believe I would do just as I have. Because I believe that perfection hides where we least expect it, and seldom conforms to our expectations. And I believe that nirvana is a state of mind and of being that takes this into consideration. (Personally, I'm not looking for nirvana, although playing my Italian accordion comes pretty close.)

Subject: RE: What Would You Do Differently?
From: wysiwyg
Date: 08 Feb 01 - 12:01 AM

Ooops-- Marion, I meant I could tell you about praying and playing, not what you asked LH! LOL!

~S~

Subject: RE: What Would You Do Differently?
From: Ebbie
Date: 08 Feb 01 - 12:50 AM

Wizzywig, you said: "What does your belief system say about music anyhow? Huh? Go see... come on... you know where I'm going with this!" My guess is that you may be saying something close to what I believe. IMO, the reason that we love music is because God does, and I believe that music has far greater importance for humankind than we know.

Immersion in music, especially when you are making it or sitting in the presence of others who are making it is such a life-affirming experience it is a tragedy that some never discover it.

Naemanson, I agree with you. I've often said I would be rich if I could have live music in my house at all times. Different groups, different kinds, what bliss...

Jon- just a thought- I used to wish I'd never been born- and then one day it occurred to me that if there were no ME to live with, I'd simply be a different "ME", I'd be someone else, that there is no way to get away from my self. I get lost in the thought but somehow I also understand it. And somehow it clarified my muddled mind, maybe with just the reminder that the Plan is much greater than my understanding of it.

And since I believe we retain our consciousness after 'death', I will still have to face the lessons I refused or found myself unable to learn...

What would I do differently in my music? Learn rich harmonies.

Peace to all.

Eb

Subject: RE: What Would You Do Differently?
From: GUEST,mg
Date: 08 Feb 01 - 12:58 AM

music...change my phonograph needles more often. Life, quit waiting for this one man (long long ago) and marry another quite fine one, the likes of whom I have not seen since. mg

Subject: RE: What Would You Do Differently?
From: GUEST
Date: 08 Feb 01 - 03:19 AM

Wow!

Ebbie, Ebbie, Ebbie.... you know we will end up meeting; I wonder when and where and how? It's always such a pleasure to read what you say. Reading what you wrote, my mouth was going like this (silently): Mmmmmmmmuszzzzzickkk..... Hey Eb, have you been to Beliefnet yet? Let's go take over the musicians board there! Yeah! Take Marion and a coupla others.... the B'netters haven't even started yet (that I have found) on spirituality and music! It's at www.beliefnet.com.

mg-- yeah! You go girl! Are you in or near the northeast US? Because I know someone who..... is looking for the woman who has decided that. I think. You can always e-mail me... wow, would I love to see the two of you together-- give you both away!

~Susan

[e-mail]

Subject: RE: What Would You Do Differently?
From: Katcina
Date: 08 Feb 01 - 01:33 PM

The first change I would make is to start saving for a piano and violin so I could take up what I dropped back in my 20s when Life held much larger problems, it seemed at the time, than to allow time for my music.

Katcina

Subject: RE: What Would You Do Differently?
From: Joe Offer
Date: 08 Feb 01 - 03:31 PM

I love to sing in church; but most of the time, working as a church musician has put me in the middle of a lot of nastiness. I don't know why it is, but church musicians are are some of the meanest people I've ever encountered. Still, I plan to keep with it and try to ensure both quality and kindness in the choir.
Oh, and I think I should have married a musician, somebody I could share my music with. I've always loved to sing, but music could not become a major part of my life until I got divorced. I'm still looking for a girl with a guitar...
-Joe Offer-

Subject: RE: What Would You Do Differently?
From: GUEST
Date: 08 Feb 01 - 03:45 PM

burn the credit cards and quit this job

Subject: RE: What Would You Do Differently?
From: GUEST
Date: 08 Feb 01 - 05:16 PM

Joe, keep lookin',ya know, around here there are a few gals with guitars, who I suspect are available. And, I agree that having someone to share the music with is a good course to follow.

Dear Abby's helper

Subject: RE: What Would You Do Differently?
From: rangeroger
Date: 08 Feb 01 - 06:45 PM

Dear Abby's helper

I guess that is one thng I needed to add to my previous post.I too miss having a love partner who I could share music with.Sometimes it seems that singing heart wrenching love songs to my self is a waste of good music. Thought I had one once till she ran of with a mining engineer from Utah.She hasn't come round knocking on my door yet either.

She went to Coalville,Utah, so I moved to Smelterville,Idaho.If I ever move back to California, I want to live in Copperpolis.

rr

Subject: RE: What Would You Do Differently?
From: wysiwyg
Date: 08 Feb 01 - 06:51 PM

I'll creep along with you rr. One town that alomst "called" Hardiman was Gallipolis, Ohio, a lovely southern Ohio river town. I always wondered if there was a Dudopolis also on the search track. Or if in Gallipolis the police force was all female, and thus in Dudopolis they'd all be men.

They say in Gallipolis it's pronounced "GAL-p'leece" but I bet Dudopolis is Doo-DOP-o-liss. And I bet they do bebop there, not doo wop, just to be ornery.

~S~

Subject: RE: What Would You Do Differently?
From: rangeroger
Date: 08 Feb 01 - 07:24 PM

Creep? Are you calling me a creep lady?

Actually, when I die,my headstone is going to read " I forgot to get married"

rr

Subject: RE: What Would You Do Differently?
From: wysiwyg
Date: 08 Feb 01 - 07:40 PM

rr,

Me, calling you Creep Lady? Just cuz you wear purple?

Prolly not!

Good epitaph!

*G*