SVSA MUSIC NEWS APRIL 2018
APRIL Feature Article Plagiarism, noodling, LARRY HELMS and the boxes by Larry Helms finish, you probably owe it to Barry Having worked in a field that Manilow, and that’s pitiful. blunts the moral sense, I’m only But the kind of plagiarism I a little embarrassed to endorse a find useful requires the additional moderate use of plagiarism in song component of noodling. I like to writing. Not the lyrics – that’s too take a phrase, riff, or progression transparent and risky. Just in melody, from a song I love and start progressions, and phrases. messing with it. It’s easy to make I suppose about all music is it your own with a few minutes of plagiarized, since we inherit musical noodling it with different rhythms, traditions. Every songwriter likes tempos, additions, and subtractions. to speak of “influences,” which Suddenly you have a new melody means plagiarism. If you like using and arrangement that aren’t obvious double-stops, odds are they got in rip-offs. your system at least in part from Take the progression from exposure to Van Morrison. If you Carolina In My Mind that like changing keys for a big, louder See Feature Article, page 2
The next meeting of 7:30 and will last until provide at least 25 PAYING THOSE the SVSA will be held the last song critique is copies of the lyrics. DUES Wednesday, APR 25 finished, or 10:30 p.m., Critiques are limited Pay at a meeting, pay in the LL Rice Room at whichever comes first. to members only on our website, or mail the Jefferson Center Members may submit but non-members $35 to: in Roanoke, Virginia. one song for critique (on and guests are SVSA Doors will open at cassette, CD, phone, encouraged to sit in on P.O. Box 698 7 p.m.; the meeting computer, or you can the discussions and begins promptly at perform it live) and should exercises. Salem, VA 24153 FEATURE ARTICLE Continued from page 1
accompanies “ain’t it just…” that few times a week, you tend to play all over those suckers at will when changes chords about every two the Eagles, right? But with the you come to see them all at once. beats. Steal that opening D to that luxury of time, noodling’s the ticket. While I know many of you weird A form, go to Em instead There are actually notes – even accomplished players are shaking of G, and so on. I wouldn’t have chords – all the way down the neck your heads, I’d like to think I’m thought of it on my own. to that sound box. I thought that not the only one who came to Of course, we’re doing these basics late. It might help similar things all the time, often I suppose about all other late-bloomers. without consciously ripping off music is plagiarized, In petulant closing, I’d like to something. The plagiarism/ since we inherit rant against “fake books.” I have noodling method, however, is musical traditions. Every a whole shelf of them, bought good for those times when Ms. songwriter likes to speak decades ago. If ever burning Muse is occupied elsewhere. You of “influences,” which books is warranted, these things can either start strumming a 1-4- means plagiarism. are fitting fuel. 5, throw in a relative minor, and territory was just for shredders, but What a fool thing ever to have hope for the best, or you can glom no Fret Police showed up. used them. What I learned was on to something you know is fine Noodling up the neck based on to memorize songs so I could and start from there. double-stops, adding and removing sit around and strum a few with Noodling, even without notes, produces new and beautiful people. What I didn’t learn was the plagiarism part, has been things. It doesn’t matter if it’s a that I’d have actually learned to the single greatest source of diminished or whatever. If it sounds play guitar if I’d devoted that improvement for me. I wasted good, it goes in the satchel. In short time to figuring out the songs for years in the cozy, dull familiarity order, you need a small suitcase for myself. Only that internalizes of the first four frets, timidly all the keepers you’ve discovered. how the music works. going to a barre chord up at five These dozens of new finds become The same goes for tablature. or seven. Part of the reason was as familiar as the G, C, and D at Throw that on the pyre, too. lack of time because of work the nut. And they’re usually not as Likewise for the millions of and kids. When boring. online fake books. Oh, to have you only play If it feels too random to sit back the hours learning the for thirty around and push on three or four licks for the Sultans of Swing. In minutes a arbitrary frets to see what they the same time, I likely could’ve sound like together, a pentatonic learned the scales well enough structure helps. I didn’t really to figure out that and most other incorporate the five leads. scale forms applicable to So the next time you feel any key until recent stuck, unable to hear the fresh and years. I knew what fitting melody for your new lyric, they were, and I you might benefit from what has could play them, helped me. First the petty theft but for years of someone else’s music. Then I saw them as noodling to cover up the theft. five separate And giving form to the noodling boxes. I tended with those five boxes. to play in one I probably should have started box and maybe move to a this little piece with the boxes, neighboring box once in a but larceny is a better attention- while. Well, damn if you can’t run grabber.
2 | SVSA MUSIC NEWS | APRIL 2018 3rd Street Coffeehouse’s ‘Trinity UM Church Appreciation Day‘ is Sunday, April 29th Third Street Coffeehouse plans to celebrate its 31st anniversary on Sunday, April 29 by holding a Trinity United Methodist Church Appreciation Day. Trinity UMC has provided the coffeehouse with a venue at no charge for rent or utilities for almost 31 years. The church provides the room, the property insurance, the lights, the water, and the freedom to plan programs. They ask nothing other than that 3rd Street volunteers be good stewards of the property and occasionally let people know there’s a fine old church upstairs. The pipes are just one of the beautiful features of the main sanctuary in the At 11:00 a.m., 3rd Street Trinity United Methodist Church in Roanoke VA. (Photo by Leigh Littleton.) will host the service in the main sanctuary with songs and performances with the goal of filling meaningful and significant way. Friday night at 3rd Street. all of the pews with friends of 3rd Everyone is invited, particularly Come to the corner of Third and Street Coffeehouse. those who’ve ever played on the Mountain Avenues in Roanoke VA, When the plate is passed, 3rd Street stage, those who’ve ever fill up that great old sanctuary, and generous donations will show a watched their friends play there, and show your gratitude and appreciation grateful public’s appreciation in a those who’ve ever just enjoyed a for 31 years of music and fun.
SVSA member Aspen Black performs last November at the Blue Grasshopper Open Mic in Rio Rancho NM. Aspen has done some extensive traveling in support of her music and poetry.
3 | SVSA MUSIC NEWS | APRIL 2018 OUT & WITHABOUT THE SVSA
Congratulations to the youngest SVSA-er, Alice Black, upon achieving teenagerhood this month. Let’s hear it for Alice!
4 | SVSA MUSIC NEWS | APRIL 2018 Meeting Notes A total of 19 members showcase for the Smith and one guest attended Mountain Arts Council our March monthly scheduled for June 8th. meeting. Mike DeGiorgi will have The guest was an old more info on that event friend, Andrew Smiley, at a later date. who was a long-time Nine original songs SVSA member / board were brought in for member before moving critique. The songs were out of the area. It was put through the standard great to have him back at SVSA “wringer” – a meeting! an open discussion New treasurer Frank of each song with Dieter delivered an up- comments, opinions, and to-date financial report at suggestions. the board members’ pre- Guests are welcome at meeting get-together at our meetings. Come and the Wildflour Restaurant sit through a meeting in Roanoke VA. or two and see whether SVSA member David Bowen knocks out an One of the topics or not the SVSA would original tune at the Lancaster (PA) City Folk discussed prior to the be beneficial to your Music & Fiddle Society Jam on April 8th. song critiques was songwriting efforts. an upcoming SVSA ~ David Simpkins
SVSA members Greg Trafidlo, Mike Pearrell, and Kathy Acosta harmonize on one of Mike’s original tunes at the Floyd Country Store’s Americana Afternoons Songwriters Spotlight on April 7th. SVSAers Britt Mistele and David Simpkins were also part of the three-hour performance. (Photo by Bruce Grimes.)
5 | SVSA MUSIC NEWS | APRIL 2018 Dogtown Roadhouse MAIN STREET CAFÉ LOCAL, REGIONAL www.dogtownroadhouse.com https://www.facebook.com/ 302 S Locust St Floyd VA 24091 mainstreetcafe434/ OPEN MICS 540.745.6836 521 N Main St South Boston VA Sundays. All ages. No cover. Music 434.738.3524 starts at 6 p.m. Sign-ups begin at 5:30, Thursdays. Open Mic / Open Jam 8:30 sign-ups for later slots begin at 7 p.m. p.m.-12:30 a.m. Bring your instrument PA and sound man provided. and jam! Or just sit and eat, drink, dance, and listen to good music. No DRAPER MERCANTILE & TRADING cover charge. Hosted by Mike Warren. CO. Submit any Open Mics that are not listed http://www.drapermerc.com/open- The Mill Iron Grill here. We’d like to make this listing as mic-night.html https://www.facebook.com/The-Mill- comprehensive as possible. Provide the 3054 Greenbriar Rd Draper VA 24324 Iron-Grill-114614645259055/ information in the format shown. 540.994.5659 10190 Stewartsville Rd Goodview VA Also, if you should see a listing that has Fridays. 6-8:30 p.m. All talents welcome. 540.890.4766 shut down, or if you know of an update Will provide one mic, PA assistance. Saturdays 8-midnight to the current entries, drop a line to the 20 minutes for musical acts, 10 for all All levels of talent welcome. Hosted by SVSA gmail address. Let’s keep this a others. Must be family friendly and not Rick Selfridge. vital and up-to-date source. too loud/disruptive. Parkway Brewery BILLY’S BARN FLOYD COUNTRY STORE http://www.parkwaybrewing.com http://www.the-cellar.com/ http://www.floydcountrystore.com/ 739 Kessler Mill Rd Salem VA 1790 Thompson Memorial Dr Salem VA music/sunday-music-jam 540.404.9810 24153 206 S Locust St Floyd VA 24091 Mondays 4-8:00 p.m. 540.728.0270 540.745.4563 Majestic Mic jamboree welcomes anyone Mondays. 7-10 p.m. Artists receive a Sundays. All ages. No cover charge. to try their hand at music. Hosted by mixed mp3 and a chance at $500. Old-Time music 1:30-3:30 p.m. Eric Larsen. Bluegrass jam 4-5:30 p.m. THE CELLAR THE Q OPEN MiC http://www.the-cellar.com/ THE FRONT ROW http://www.theqlive.com 302 N Main St Blacksburg VA 24060 https://www.facebook.com/ 8118 Plantation Rd Roanoke VA 540.953.0651 thefrontrowsalemave/ 540.362.8437 Mondays. 9:00 p.m.-12:30 a.m. Blues 356 Salem Ave Roanoke VA Wednesdays 8:30 p.m. - ? jam. 540.345.1542 15 minute set. PA provided. Hosted by Thursdays. 8:00 p.m. Bring your own Scott Joshway. CHARLEY’S instruments. Come rock the house. http://www.charleyslynchburg.com/ RADFORD COFFEE COMPANY 707 Graves Mill Rd Lynchburg VA Good Times Tavern https://www.facebook.com/ 434.237.5988 https://m.facebook.com/ radfordcoffeeco/?hc_ 1st and 3rd Wednesdays of month. 7:00- goodtimestavern540/ ref=NEWSFEED&fref=nf 10:00 p.m. Bring your instrument and 3107 Williamson Rd Roanoke VA 333 W Main St Radford VA vocal talent! $5 food discount to the 540-849-7407 540.838.2399 first 10 people to sign in. Hosted by Open Mic / Jam Session Saturdays. 6-9:00 p.m. Acoustic, rock, Jodie Davis. Tuesdays. 7-10 p.m.First come, first poetry, etc. Small PA available. served. Hosted Melissa Mesko. Club Havoc RISING SILO BREWERY http://clubhavoc.net/author/jojohavoc Gospel Café www.RisingSiloBrewery.com 202 Market Sq Roanoke VA https://www.facebook.com/pages/ 2351 Glade Rd Blacksburg VA 540.343.6644 Gospel-Cafe/392559714096332 410.596.1200 Tuesdays. 9:00 p.m. Hosted by Eric 926 Indiana Ave NE Roanoke VA Monthly Irish Jam. Fridays, 7-9:00 Larsen. 540.314.1423 p.m. Sit-ins welcome. Bring your Fri and Sat nights. 7-10 p.m. instrument, your open ears, and your The Coffee Pot tapping toes. Tips encouraged for http://thecoffeepotroanoke.com Lucie Monroe’s Café & Bakery musicians, no cover. 2902 Brambleton Ave SW Roanoke VA http://www.luciemonroes.com 540.774.8256 1600 Roanoke St Christiansburg VA More Open Mic listings Sundays 5-9:00 p.m. 540.381.0909 on page 7 Hosted by Al Coffey. Wednesdays. 6-9:00 p.m.
6 | SVSA MUSIC NEWS | APRIL 2018 LOCAL, REGIONAL OPEN MICS
Continued from page 6 RIVER CITY GRILL https://www.facebook.com/ Radford-Fiddle-and-Banjo- Jam-191719767524461/ 103 Third St. Radford VA 24141 540.629.2130 Mondays. 7-10:00 p.m. Radford Fiddle SVSA member Sam Darby does his open mic thing at 3rd Street & Banjo bluegrass jam. Hosted by Coffeehouse in Roanoke VA. (Photo by Jack L. Dean.) Chris Bell.
Roanoke Diversity Center cheer on the locals who share theirs. by Charissa Morrison. Bring your http://www.roanokediversitycenter. Hosted by Betsy in The Verse. instrument or bring your friends. com 806 Jamison Ave SE Roanoke VA SOUVLAKI Sycamore Deli 540.491.4165 http://www.eatsouvlaki.com/ http://www.sycamoredeli.com 1st Fridays. Play an instrument, sing 1154 E Main St Radford VA 211B Draper Rd Blacksburg VA a song, read a poem, sing karaoke, 540.633.0555 540.951.9817 or just enjoy. No cover. Snacks Wednesdays 6-8:00 p.m. Open to all. Blacksburg Old-Time Jam. provided. Small PA, two guitars, Wednesdays 7-9:00 p.m. Open to keyboard available – or bring your STARR HILL PILOT BREWERY & anyone playing Old-Time style. own instruments (no drums but SIDE STAGE smaller percussion instruments https://starrhill.com/tap-room- 3rd street coffeehouse allowed). locations/roanoke-pilot-brewery- https://m.facebook.com/3rd-Street- side-stage/ Coffeehouse-190361914329993 ROCK THE MIC - ROANOKE 6 Old Whitmore Ave Roanoke VA Trinity United Methodist Church http://www.kingdomofrock.com/ 540.685.2012 305 Mountain Ave SW Roanoke Rosetti’s Family Bistro Mondays. 6-9:00 p.m. Bring your own 540.309.4707 202 Market St Roanoke VA instrument and join the jam. Hosted 1st Thursday Guitar Pull / Song Circle. Wednesdays and Fridays. Killer sound, by Melissa Mesko. 6:30-9:00 p.m. Smoke-free, alcohol- lights, merchandise table, sponsor free, no cover. giveaways. Loud rock and blues STONEY BADGER TAVERN 3rd Thursday Open Mic. 6:30-9:00 p.m. improv, covers, and shows. http://www.stoneybadgertavern. Smoke-free, alcohol-free, no cover. com/ Hosted by Aspen Black. Schooner’s 3009 Old Forest Rd Lynchburg VA http://www.schoonersfamily.com 434.384.3004 WHITE HART CAFÉ 7226 Williamson Rd Roanoke VA Tuesdays. 9:00 p.m.-1:00 a.m. What http://www.thewhitehartcoffee.com/ 540.420.0927 started as an idea has become a 1208 Main St Lynchburg VA Tuesdays. 8:00 p.m. Solo to bands – all community of artists that help each 434.207.5600 welcome. Hosted by Steve Guidus. other learn and grow on stage. Fridays. 6-9:00 p.m. We will provide a mic and you provide the talent. Open Soaring Ridge Craft Brewers SWEET DONKEY COFFEE HOUSE for all music, art, comedy, etc. http://www.soaringridge.com/ http://www.sweetdonkeycoffee.com/ 523 Shenandoah Ave NW, Roanoke VA 2108 Broadway Ave SW Roanoke VA 540.339.9776 540.491.0004 Fridays 6-9:00 p.m. Take the stage and Every other Friday (check web site for share your sound, or just sit back and announcement). 6-9:00 p.m. Hosted
7 | SVSA MUSIC NEWS | APRIL 2018 Connie Sellers (1924 - 2018)
I’ll be in the dew of the morning I will cool the sun at noon “ I’ll be the breath of springtime That makes the flowers bloom. ”
Compiled by David Simpkins Connie was a complex man The day after graduating from in putting this together, I was who approached things simply. high school, Connie went directly istruck by the idea of how And this is a simple (and woefully into the service. He served as an Ii much Connie would have inadequate) attempt to honor that Army Air Corps fighter pilot in enjoyed it. Not in a self-aggrandizing wonderfully complex man. World War II, flying P-40s and P-47s way – Connie did not have a self- Let’s start at the start. in combat. aggrandizing bone in his body that Connie Larue Sellers was born Then, in 1950, at Virginia Tech, I know of – but more as something in Covington VA, the third of eight Connie and friend John Whittle done properly, done right. Because children. He was an avid athlete were elected co-captains of the first to me, Connie was a man who was from an early age. In 1942, he was a Virginia Tech golf team. While at grounded in and appreciative of running back on the undefeated high Tech, Connie was matched against tradition, enough so that he had no school state champion Covington the likes of Wake Forest’s Arnold compunctions about stepping outside Cougars football team. Palmer during Southern Conference of tradition when the situation and He also had a 25-1-1 record as a matches in the pre-ACC era. In circumstances called for it. high-school boxer. See Connie, page 9
8 | SVSA MUSIC NEWS | APRIL 2018 CONNIE Continued from page 8
1951, Connie won the him have a “Connie them is well-crafted and memorable. Virginia State Amateur Story” or two to tell. Whenever a collaboration got a Golf Championship. He took our song particularly good review, he always A lifelong golfing critiques seriously and heaped praise upon his co-writer, enthusiast, he later always participated in downplaying his own indelible won several Roanoke the give-and-take process contributions. City / County golf evenhandedly and with As a performer, Connie was a championships, six club humor. natural. With a beautiful singing championships, and both Connie said what voice, often performing without the Virginia State Senior he thought, however, instrumentation, he could “sell” a and the Super Seniors and understood why song as good as anyone. He never championships. sometimes songwriters quite mastered the guitar (he sure Connie was inducted into the need a dose of “tough love.” tried, though) but with a lot of Virginia Tech Sports Hall of Fame He was perfectly willing to jump work, dedication, and innate talent, (1996) and the Roanoke Valley Golf into the often difficult arena of he became a surprisingly adept Hall of Fame (1987). co-writing. Many of his poems and harmonica player. Married to Mary Betty melody ideas found their way into Miss him? Of course we’ll Fichtenger Sellers for 64 years, he collaborative efforts with his fellow miss him. But, most of all, those loved visiting the Orient and Europe SVSA members. of us who knew him – closely or with her. Their favorite vacations, There’s no definite tally on just otherwise – will be forever grateful though, were ones they shared with how many songs were co-written to have had the opportunity to their children (sons Chuck and John, with Connie but it is generally share some time with this simply daughters Connie and Suzanne) and acknowledged that every one of wonderful and complex man. grandchildren (Charles and Cabell) in the mountains of North Carolina and Litchfield Beach, SC. He excelled in the life insurance business for over 50 years. A member of Second Presbyterian Church, he Connie Sellers was a was an advocate of the YMCA of frequent performer at Roanoke Valley in its early days. 3rd Street Coffeehouse Although best known for his open mics. Here he is with golf game, in later life Connie SVSAers Britt Mistele in became a published poet, a short- the audience and David story writer, a guitar and harmonica Simpkins doing sound. player, and a songwriter. His poem “Teardrops” was chosen to be part of the tribute collection in the Flight 93 National Memorial publication. Connie performed often at Roanoke VA’s “No Shame Theater.” The SVSA knew him best as an active and long-time member. His wit, his enthusiasm, his talent, and his wisdom were welcomed and appreciated. Most of us who knew
9 | SVSA MUSIC NEWS | APRIL 2018 CONNIE From page 9
Connie Sellers entertains a 3rd Street Coffeehouse audience with one of his a capella originals. (Photo by Marian McConnell.)
Connie Sellers could hold an audience in the palm of his hand. Here, he performs at Kirk Avenue Music Hall in Roanoke VA in March 2010. SVSA-er Randolph Walker is in the background.
Connie showing his guitar skills at No Shame Theater in Roanoke VA. (Photo by Todd William Ristau.)
10 | SVSA MUSIC NEWS | APRIL 2018 CONNIE From page 10 My grandchildren call me “Grandpa Cool.”
VIDEO CONNIE • WSLS-TV10 video about golf featuring Connie from 06/07/68 • http://search.lib.virginia.edu/ catalog/uva-lib:2219776 • Connie sings “The Desert” at 3rd St Coffeehouse 04/01/11 • https://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=takruLnaGnU
Sad news came through today, Connie Sellers (who was a regular at Roanoke No Shame Connie was generous, and kind, so brave Theater from the very first one) has passed and willing to embrace the vulnerability on. He’s up in Heaven complaining about of creativity, and so quick to laugh with onions on his beans, and making everyone (but too kind to laugh at). Anyone who around him smile and laugh. What a delight- ever thought No Shame Theater was a young ful man, what a generous talent, what an person’s game never met Connie. We are all example of lifelong learning, living and better for having known him. Godspeed. loving. He was a big part of what made our ~ Joan Ruelle No Shame such an early success. I love and admire that guy so much! ~ Todd William Ristau (from Facebook)
When Doug Turner created Third Street Coffeehouse in 1987, he had no way of know- ing how many lives he would touch. The coffeehouse became a place where lives This morning’s sports section contained an intersected. Among the many faces who came article about SVSA family member, Connie in and out of the doors was Connie Sellers Sellers, who, as a poet and a songwriter, – a character, always cheerful, always went by the name of C. LaRue. Connie was, game to try something new at an age when indeed, a “grand guy.” His poems were wise, many people are in retreat. In addition to deep, delicate, simple, and easy on the his many other accomplishments, he became ears. On occasion, he would perform them a poet and songwriter. His songs had the for us, either as spoken word, or sung in recognizable stamp of his personality. The his wonderful voice. He will be missed. last time I saw him was at Kroger. He was ~ Mike Franke upbeat as always. I like to think that he is entertaining the angels up in Heaven. ~ Randy Walker
11 | SVSA MUSIC NEWS | APRIL 2018 3rd Street Coffeehouse FIRST THURSDAY Guitar Pull / Song Circle THIRD THURSDAY Open Mic SVSA member Aspen Black notes that the “Third Thursdays at Third Street All Open Mic” is a great way to share work, try out new songs or poems, offer CDs and merch for DATE FEATURE ACT...... OPENING ACT sale, and hang out with folks who Apr 27 The Entwined (Dan & Adonna)...... Two To Tango share your interests. The next “Third Apr 29 31st Anniversary & Homecoming...... n/a Thursdays at Third Street all Open May 3 1st Thursday Guitar Pull Song Circle...... n/a Mic” will be on May 17th. Sign May 4 Joy Truskowski...... Bill Stanton up begins at 6:30 and ends when May 11 Madison Warner...... Aspen Black the list is full (15). Beyond 15 will May 17 3rd Thursday All Open Mike...... n/a immediately go into the lottery for May 18 Mark Mandeville & Raianne Richards...... Art Katz remaining slots at the end. Length of May 25 Steve Smith...... Bob Schmucker performance is determined by the Jun 1 Maurice Dickson...... TBA number of participants. All levels of proficiency and styles are welcome, so long as your songs are appropriate SVSA members Bob and Denise for all audiences. Schmucker sit in at the April 3rd Street Coffeehouse also holds 3rd Street a “First Thursday Guitar Pull / Song Guitar Pull / Circle” from 7:00-9:00 p.m. Hosted Song Circle. by Jim Page, performers can bring new material or play cover songs. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. to sign up. Performers will get to play two or three songs in an in-the-round setting. The next “First Thursday Guitar Pull / Song Circle” will be held May 4th.
3rd Street Coffeehouse, venue. A hat is passed for donations 3rd Street Coffeehouse is established in 1987, is open every to the featured performers. located at Trinity United Methodist Friday evening. Opening act If you’re interested in opening a Church at 305 Mountain Ave. SW, performances last from 7:30-8:30 show or headlining a night at 3rd Roanoke, VA. p.m.; feature performer from 8:30- Street Coffeehouse, contact Josh More info can be found online 10:00 p.m. 3rd Street is a smoke- Jones at 540-761-1351 or email at www.roanoke.com Events free, alcohol-free, no-cover-charge [email protected]. Calendar and on Facebook.
12 | SVSA MUSIC NEWS | APRIL 2018 SVSA member Greg Trafidlo’s folk trio, Trifolkal (featuring former SVSA-ers Laura Pole and Neal Phillips), began work this April on a video project (shot in Greg’s home) with the aid of SVSA members Dennis Danner (left) and Randolph Walker (kneeling). (Photo by Judy Larson.)
SVSA Performing Members’ SVSA members April 2018 Upcoming Gigs Kathy Acosta Celie Holmes David Barudin Josh Jones DAVID SIMPKINS Marc Baskind Ashley Lucas July 7, Floyd Country Store Americana Afternoons (7th Alice Black Elizabeth McCauley Anniversary Show) with Britt Mistele, Greg Trafidlo, and Kathy Acosta, noon-1:30, 206 S Locust St, Floyd VA Aspen Black Britt Mistele David Bowen Eric Mosley Aug 3-4, Steppin’ Out Acoustic Stage, with Greg Trafidlo, Steve Clark Jake Orzalli Kathy Acosta, and Britt Mistele, date / time TBA, Blacksburg VA, http://www.blacksburgsteppinout.com/event_ Sam Darby Mollye Otis schedule.shtml Frank Dieter Charles (Jack) Page Charlie Divers Mike Pearrell MARC BASKIND Paul Douglas Larry Sakayama Mike Franke Bob Schmucker Fridays & Saturdays, The Greenbrier main dining room, with the Walter Scott Trio, 7:00-10:00 p.m., White Sulphur Springs Jerry Gilmore Denise Schmucker WVA Egan Green David Simpkins Sunday Evenings, Luigi’s, background solo, 6:00-9:00 p.m., Mary Gordon Hall Greg Trafidlo Brambleton Ave, Roanoke VA Dale Hamilton Randolph Walker Apr 27-28, Hotel Roanoke Regency Room, with Dave Ferguson Trio, 6:30-9:30 p.m., 110 Shenandoah Ave NE, Roanoke VA George Harris Tony Wegmann May 4, Pete Dye River Course, solo, 6:00-8:30 p.m., 8400 River Dan Hildebrand Randy Williams Course Dr, Radford VA Bob Coulter (In Memoriam) May 12, Vinton Farmer’s Market, with Caravan, 10:30 a.m.-1:30 Sid Crosswhite (Lifetime) p.m., 204 W Lee Ave, Vinton VA
13 | SVSA MUSIC NEWS | APRIL 2018 Songwriting Contests, Workshops, etc.
The 2018 John Lennon Songwriting Contest Session I is now open. The deadline for entry is June 15. Please be sure to carefully read the rules and regulations. Enter by mail, online, or through Sonicbids. http://jlsc.com/enter.php Songwriting Workshop This May 18 workshop is for novices or experienced songwriters. The seven-hour workshop will be an interactive, in-depth look at the writing method. Cost is $50. (Attendees will receive one single-day ticket to the overall festival, a $30 value.) Workshop is limited to 30 students. http://www.wildflowerfestival.com/ songwriting-workshop/
Song Pitching Opportunity When you record six standard demos (at one recording session), we will arrange for four of those songs to be pitched for three months to major label artists and record companies. Or: When you record six master level demos (at one recording session), we’ll arrange for four of those songs to 2018 Songwriting Contest be pitched for six months to major label artists and record This songwriting contest is open to anyone who writes companies AND they will also be pitched to TV & film and original music and not currently signed to a recording or special projects. publishing contract. The initial six songs must be approved by producer Enter in Country, Gospel / Inspirational, Pop / Rock, Kim Copeland and the four songs to be pitched are Bluegrass, Folk, Lyrics Only, and Youth (age 18 and under). to be selected by Springbarrel Songwriter Services. First place in each category wins $100. 2nd place wins Sessions must be completed by May 31. Maximum $50. Third place wins $20. Overall winner wins $300 and an 24 songs per songwriter. More info at http://www. opportunity to perform at the Bluebird Café in Nashville. kimcopelandproductions.com/song-pitching/ Complete information will be listed at a later date.
The SVSA was well represented at a house concert in Bridgewater VA on April 21. Back row: Britt Mistele, Kathy Acosta. Front row: Greg Trafidlo, Laura Pole, David Simpkins, Marc Baskind, and host Mel Lee. (Photo by Bob Schmucker.)
14 | SVSA MUSIC NEWS | APRIL 2018 Here a link, there a link ... 7 BEATLES SONGWRITING SECRETS STRING BENDING BASICS http://www.songwriting.net/blog/7-beatles-secrets https://www.musicindustryhowto.com/string-bending- exercises-the-basics-for-guitarists/ HOW TO GET GIGS WITHOUT BOOKING THEM YOURSELF https://www.musicindustryhowto.com/how-to-get- FREE BANJO MAINTENANCE MANUALS gigs-without-booking-them-yourself/ https://www.deeringbanjos.com/pages/maintenance- manuals HOW TO MAKE MONEY WRITING CHILDREN’S SONGS https://www.musicindustryhowto.com/how-to-make- WRITING NON-VISUAL LYRICS THAT ENGAGE LISTENERS money-writing-childrens-songs/ https://www.bmi.com/news/entry/how-to-write-non- visual-lyrics-that-engage-listeners MUSICAL ‘TRASH TO TREASURE’ http://www.harmonycentral.com/articles/dear- HOW TO HOST A SUCCESSFUL OPEN MIC NIGHT musician---musics-all-around-us https://themix.americanmusical.com/open-mic-night-tips/
MUSIC INSTRUMENT INDUSTRY RETAIL TRENDS GETTING READY FOR YOUR FIRST LIVE PERFORMANCE http://www.harmonycentral.com/articles/music- https://themix.americanmusical.com/prepare-to- instrument-industry-retail-trends perform-your-first-live-show/
FLATWOUND VS. ROUNDWOUND STRINGS THE STATE OF LIVE MUSIC 2018 http://www.harmonycentral.com/articles/flatwound-vs- http://www.harmonycentral.com/articles/the-state-of- roundwound-strings live-music-2018
HOW TO USE TRIADS TIPS ON GETTING A SONG STARTED https://www.premierguitar.com/articles/27170-how-to- https://www.premierguitar.com/articles/27061-what- use-triads the-ell-how-to-write-your-first-song
HOW MANY SONGS SHOULD YOU WRITE PER MONTH? IMPROVE YOUR TIMEKEEPING https://www.musicindustryhowto.com/how-many- https://www.musicindustryhowto.com/6-best-exercises- songs-should-you-be-writing-a-month/ to-improve-your-timekeeping-on-any-instrument/
HOW TO BECOME A FAMOUS SINGER IN 8 STEPS https://www.musicindustryhowto.com/how-to-become- a-famous-singer-in-6-steps/ SVSA Classifieds SHOULD YOU CO-WRITE? GUITAR FOR SALE http://www.kimcopelandproductions.com/should-you- Alvarez Yairi 6-string guitar. Spruce top, rare cowrite/ Hawaiian Koa back and sides. Gloss finish and 12-FRET VS. 14-FRET GUITARS EXPLAINED in great shape. K&K Pure Mini pick-up system. https://www.sweetwater.com/insync/taylor-12-fret-vs- Comes with a hard shell case. $550.00 Call 14-fret-guitars-explained/ Britt Mistele 540-745-6771.
HOW TO USE FACEBOOK LIVE FOR MUSICIANS https://www.musicindustryhowto.com/how-to-use- SVSA Music News free facebook-live-for-musicians/ classifieds may be submitted by paid members only. All HOW TO SOLO ON GUITAR WITH JUST ONE STRING https://www.musicindustryhowto.com/how-to-solo-on- classifieds must be music- guitar-with-just-one-string/ related.
15 | SVSA MUSIC NEWS | APRIL 2018 SVSA Members’ Recordings
eyes on the horizon kaleidoscope touch the sky crossing over time
marc with a “c” long story short here with you eyes on the water
Barbara Martin Marc Baskind EYES ON THE HORIZON — Jazz and all marc with a “c”— Sampler CD of covers originals with Robert Redd on piano, Chuck and original songs offers a taste of the varied Redd on drums and vibes, Steve Wolf on styles of this accomplished guitarist/singer. bass, Mac Walter on guitar, Bruce Swaim on saxophone, John Jensen on trombone, and David Simpkins Matt Finley on flugelhorn. Long Story Short — Offers 12 original Kaleidoscope — Barbara’s jazziest CD. Americana tunes blending rock, folk, blues, All original songs, with co-writes with Joel and country. Evans, Mac Walter, and Greg Trafidlo. Touch the Sky — Swinging acoustic Mark Laperle blues and jazz from Barb Martin and Mac Walter. HERE WITH YOU — Twelve original songs feature a blend of folk, blues, Americana, and pop. Backed by several SVSA members and David Bowen (Acoustic others. Reset) Crossing over time — Featuring The Panini Brothers folk-pop tunes. Eight originals and eight Eyes on the water — Debut CD from a covers accented by solid guitar licks and group comprised of SVSA members Larry accompanying instruments. Available at Sakayama and Mike DeGiorgi as well as Chip acousticreset.com. Conway, Mark Earnhardt, and Scott Thomas. Jazzy, bluesey, eclectic, original tunes.
16 | SVSA MUSIC NEWS | APRIL 2018 SVSA Members’ Recordings
carved in song folk singular co-writers in disguise old dog, new tracks
the crawlspace tapes pacing the moon winkin’ tao from the mountain Greg Trafidlo Josh Jones Carved in Song— Most songs co-written Pacing the Moon — Thirteen of the with some of Greg’s favorite songwriters. strongest songs Josh has written. For lyrics, Listen to audio clips at gregtrafidlo.com. short audio clips and additional information, please visit www.jonesgroupmusic.com. folk singular— Greg’s third solo CD reflects the diversity of his songwriting Trifolkal and production skills. With SVSA-ers on background vocals, and Marc Baskind on winkin’ — Newest release from that “trio guitar and vocals. fiercely dedicated to fun” tempers the fun with poignancy and heart. Co-Writers in Disguise — Contemporary folk/country with an emphasis on well-crafted Tao from the Mountain — Tight lyrics and humor. With a number of SVSA harmonies, warmth, and witty songwriting members appearing on the CD. from Laura Pole, Greg Trafidlo & Neal Phillips. Old Dog – New Tracks — Songs that range from silly to sublime, drawing you in with warmth, wit, and humor. Songs include “I Got Stuck Behind Buford,” “Time is a Mountain,” and “The Tumbler.” Buy it from CD Baby or contact Greg at [email protected]. THE CRAWLSPACE TAPES — Greg’s newest CD is a compilation of all his funny and goofy stuff. Tom Paxton says, “Loosen up, sourpusses. Greg is on the loose again!”
17 | SVSA MUSIC NEWS | APRIL 2018 SVSA Members’ Recordings
cup of contradictions dimestore detective land of my dreams tales from the road
eastern western from the heart of a horsegirl poet lovin’ the west cowgirl cowgirl Mike Pearrell Aspen Black cup of contradictions — 13 original Tales From the Road — 15 original poems songs. Lots of SVSA musicians singing and with musical backup. Every poem has a tie to playing. a road, although the road is never the subject. Either the road runs through it, shows up in dimestore detective — Mike’s first solo a fleeting moment, or the whole story was CD features 14 original songs. Produced by inspired by, or witnessed “on the road.” Greg Trafidlo; with a number of guest SVSA musicians. Available at Mike’s shows. Eastern Western Cowgirl — Eight original Contemporary Western songs. Marian and Dan McConnell Available at CDBaby.com/aspenblack7. from the heart of a cowgirl — Land of My Dreams — Takes the listener Original spoken word poems adhering to the along on an excursion in the Blue Ridge Western Music Association guidelines for the Mountains in Virginia through 14 original cowboy poetry genre. Available at CDBaby. folk songs with celtic and country/rock underpinnings. Recorded at Catawba Sound horsegirl poet — Songs and poems about Studio. Available at cdbaby.com. horses, cowboys, and rural life. Available at CDBaby. LOVIN’ THE WEST — This is the latest CD released by Western Music Association singer/ songwriter – and SVSA member – Aspen Black. It features 10 original selections, seven of which are road-tested favorites.
18 | SVSA MUSIC NEWS | APRIL 2018 SVSA Members’ Recordings
my life gumbo style eagle rock session Mike Franke what’s done is done — A debut release of 14 original folk and blues tunes about everyday life and interesting people featuring Mike’s fingerstyle and slide guitar.
In addition to laying down some tasty background vocals, SVSA-er Britt Mistele also contributed some lead dog joggin’ what’s done is done vocals at a house concert in Bridgewater VA on April 21st. Jimmie Landry MY LIFE — Jimmie sings stories about his friends, family, and life on the road. A jazzy- blues New Orleans-style piano and vocals paint a picture of 60 years in music. GUMBO — Hot and spicy down-home jazz, funk, and soul that goes down easy. Ten originals and three covers. STYLE — A blend of standards and one original in a variety of grooves like straight- ahead swing, samba, jazz, waltz, and funky second-line blues. Randy Williams EAGLE ROCK SESSION — Americana compositions with imaginative lyrics delivered in a unique and soulful voice. Steve Clark DOG JOGGIN’ — Eleven sweet and true amusing tunes comprise this quirky singer/ songwriter CD. Available at cdbaby.com.
19 | SVSA MUSIC NEWS | APRIL 2018 SVSA DISCLAIMER About Classifieds: The ideas and opinions contained SVSA Music News free classifieds may be submitted in this newsletter are intended by paid members only. All classifieds must be music- to be helpful to songwriters. The related. Members, e-mail your classifieds to svsa. companies and organizations [email protected]. mentioned are believed to be legitimate; however, SVSA does not endorse any products or services and About articles and other written offers no guaranteed success based contributions: on the content. SVSA members write feature articles for the SVSA We are always looking for articles Music News throughout the year. Members can about SVSA members and articles submit other articles and features at any time. Non- of interest to the songwriting members may also submit articles and other written community. Email articles and contributions but their inclusion will be subject to time information to the Editor, David and space constraints. All articles may be edited for Simpkins, at svsa.songwriters@ space considerations and will be edited, as time allows, gmail.com. SVSA is a non-profit for spelling and grammar. E-mail submissions to svsa. organization. [email protected]. SVSA Board Members: About Announcements: Mike Franke – President Ashley Lucas - Vice President SVSA members may list music-related announcements in the SVSA Music News. E-mail them to svsa. David Simpkins – Secretary and [email protected] by the second Tuesday of Newsletter Editor the month. Announcements from members will be Frank Dieter – Treasurer e-mailed to members as soon as they are received and, Bob Schmucker - At-Large Board if still timely, published in an upcoming issue of the Member SVSA Music News. Announcements from non-members Mike DeGiorgi - At-Large Board Member will be held for publication in an upcoming issue of the Dennis Danner - At-Large Board Member SVSA Music News. Larry Helms - At-Large Board Member
About Members’ Gig Listings: SVSA members may submit their upcoming performance schedules for publication in the SVSA Music News. The submissions will be printed as submitted; the more information you provide, the SVSA more likely the response. P.O. Box 698 Salem, VA 24153 www.svsasongs.com
20 | SVSA MUSIC NEWS | APRIL 2018