SVSA MUSIC NEWS OCTOBER 2019
OCTOBER FeATURE Article Unbiased and supportive critiques can foster real songwriting growth by Mollye Otis changing group depending upon During board meetings, we who shows up. It’s enough critical often (lately) have discussed the mass to guarantee a range of song critique process of monthly opinions, and in 7-10 minutes, just SVSA meetings, considering ways how deep can you get? Filling out we might better define the points we forms would be a complication. address and what they should be. Defining only a few points open Create a form for comments? Define for discussion would limit anyone’s exactly how or what is fair to point particular area of expertise that out? How do we add value to our might offer another point of view. critiques of each other’s work? While it may be random, the After several rounds and weeks wide-net approach gathers lots of of discussions, I came to the point: feedback and much of it will be “It ain’t broke ... so don’t try to fix valuable. it.” Mostly, it is a gift that the MOLLYE OTIS We are a large and ever- See Feature Article, page 2
DUES BE DUE BE The next meeting of 7:30 and will last until provide at least 25 DUE BE DUE the SVSA will be held the last song critique is copies of the lyrics. Pay at a meeting, pay WedNESDAY OCT 23 finished, or 10:30 p.m., Critiques are limited on our website, or mail in the LL Rice Room at whichever comes first. to members only $35 to: the Jefferson Center Members may submit but non-members SVSA in Roanoke, Virginia. one song for critique (on and guests are 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 Salem, VA 24153 begins promptly at perform it live) and should exercises. FEATURE ARTICLE Continued from page 1
group offers its members to be emotionally bound up in my song, it speaking, to see what advice they as unbiased and supportive as is hardest to remain open. might have about the evaluation we can deliver. Given that we all And, too, my state of mind that process. come from different backgrounds, day determines how well I am going Surprise! They are establishing interests, and levels, we learn to accept “criticism.” But … even on standardized criteria and from the discussion as a group, the hard days’ nights, I give it two instituting a training process particularly from the senior or three days afterwards to ruminate called “Pathways” for members members who have the benefit in my second stomach and resurface to learn how to effectively review of experience and know-how. other members’ work. There are The real underlying value is that 300 competencies to learn in writers grow and their work communication and leadership! reflects the payoff of group Whoa! Okay, I think we can keep interaction and commentary. it simpler than that at SVSA. Look around and think However, here is a short list of about how someone you know Toastmaster’s five practices that has really grown, exploring new support and encourage, with the areas, conquering problematic stated reasoning: “Members who issues, expanding their harmonic receive thoughtful evaluations feel palate, or clarifying their lyrics. heard and become motivated to The potentials realized are as improve.” varied as the writers. I have substituted “song” It has struck me, during my for “speech” and “writer” for introduction to SVSA and since, to reclaim my composure. I collect “speaker.” (Steal from the best but just how generous this group my sheets of commentary and set to make it your own!) I have adapted is toward one another. Taking work revising. Thank you, SVSA for accordingly. each writer “where they are” and giving me guidance and support! When giving evaluations: commenting on things they seem Do I agree with all the opinions • Approach each song with ready to hear, telling the truth but I get? No. But simply receiving honesty while remaining positive with care, creates a strong sense feedback and winnowing through • Pay attention to the writer’s of safety. It is, as we all know, a it provides me with a deeper goals for self-improvement vulnerable situation to put your awareness of my own choice-making • Evaluate what the writer does work out there for everyone to process. Most of the ideas I receive and not who the writer is hear and comment on. But it is are put to good use in rewrites. The • Report what you see, hear and in the act of doing so that we rest that I decline to employ provide feel as a member presents the tacitly agree to be heard and a stronger resistance framework song evaluated, so the challenge within for my writing; I simply take a 1. Before the song, ask the is to remain open and unafraid. lot of risks and am willing to go speaker to discuss their Receptive. outside the norms to explore. I objectives. Address any I know from my own know I have gained so much from concerns. experience that I have to be ready considerations both positive and 2. Personalize your to hear the commentary. Usually, negative. Another payoff: I certainly language. Before giving your I am dying to hear it, knowing I hear much more keenly than before evaluation, put yourself in the am far too close to the material and as a result, my appreciation position of the speaker. Use to be objective. I trust the ears of of other songwriters has grown “I” phrases and stay away the listeners and believe that they immeasurably. from phrases like “You didn’t will tell me something I need to I turned to Toastmasters, the … ,” “You should have … ,” know. When I am too personally organization that promotes public See Feature Article, page 4
2 | SVSA MUSIC NEWS | OCTOBER 2019 PRESENTS A SONGWRITERS SHOWCASE FEATURING
MICKEY NELSON DAN HILDEBRAND BILL STANTON STEVE LANGSTON
MIKE PEARRELL LARRY SAKAYAMA LARRY HELMS EGAN GREEN FRIDAY OCTOBER 25 7:30-10:00 P.M. • NO COVER 3RD STREET COFFEEHOUSE 305 MOUNTAIN AVE SW ROANOKE VA
3 | SVSA MUSIC NEWS | OCTOBER 2019 3rd Street FEATURE ARTICLE Continued from page 2 Coffeehouse to hold first musicians “You failed to ….” I still, however, enjoy a 3. To encourage good joke and appreciate the swap meet Oct 26 improvement, use words like lightheartedness that takes over 3rd Street Coffeehouse in “I believe …,” “My reaction our group sometimes. Cracking Roanoke VA will host a musicians was …,” “I suggest that….” up is good for emotional freedom. swap meet on Sat Oct 26 from 9 4. Evaluate the song — not the Joy is always good! a.m.-noon at the coffeehouse. person! Always keep your Finally, I confess that it is Musicians are invited to rent a main purpose in mind: to uncomfortable for me personally table to sell or trade equipment or support, help, and encourage to express opinions out loud. music-related wares (including CDs the speaker. Don’t assess Writing my commentary feels and vinyl). personal qualities — only more reliably cogent and useful, so • 6 ft tables $15 in advance and assess actions related to the I often write a lot. $20 the day of the swap meet. songwriting. Sometimes, when I do • 4 ft tables $10 in advance and 5. Promote self-esteem. Motivate not have anything cogent to $15 the day of the swap meet. and inspire the writer to say, I simply write something Setup will be at 8:30 a.m. deliver another song by giving encouraging. And when I receive 3rd Street will promote and sincere praise and constructive such encouragements myself, advertise along with selling coffee suggestions on what they I am bolstered and braver and donuts / pastries the day of the can improve. Always end going forward. The process of swap meet. your evaluation with positive formulating useful commentary is Direct any and all questions to feedback. itself an important learning. Bob Schmucker at rjschmucker@ I think we are on the right Mostly, I think we must always cox.net track already. But perhaps we bear in mind that creative work can be mindful of how we say is highly individual and personal. what we say, considering before I am always careful to try not to speaking if our thoughts have offend or discourage anyone in the merit and bearing. In other words, group, as I believe we all are. filtering our own “stuff ” first. We hold these truths to be self- Asking before speaking “is this a evident; we’re in this love (of the worthy comment?” “Does it help torture of criticism) together. Let’s further my fellow SVSA writer’s do this thang well! growth?” Meeting Notes Twenty SVSA members year. December 7 is the projected and three guests attended the date for this traditional event. September meeting. President Mike DeGiorgi noted Dan Hildebrand announced that the deadline for submissions the line-up for the upcoming SVSA for the SVSA Holiday CD is Songwriters Showcase at 3rd Street November 1. Greg Trafidlo displays his Coffeehouse on October 25. Ten new original songs were mandolin skills backing Sally Barris Board Member Larry Helms submitted for critique. in September of 2018 at a house announced that he will host the ~ Bill Stanton concert sponsored by the SVSA. SVSA Holiday Party again this
4 | SVSA MUSIC NEWS | OCTOBER 2019 The SVSA’s Jimmie Landry got out for a bike ride before the colder weather of October set in. His plan to get airborne, however, may need a little bit more work.
5 | SVSA MUSIC NEWS | OCTOBER 2019 3rd Street Coffeehouse has busy fall schedule by Bob Schmucker 3rd Street Coffeehouse is a beehive of activity this fall, with events that go beyond the normally scheduled open mics, guitar pulls, and Friday night shows. Check out the following: • Musicians Swap Meet to be held Sat., Oct. 26 from 9:00 a.m. to noon. Got extra gear in your closet that you aren’t using and still works? Turn it into cash or swap it with another musician! Hawk your musical wares to folks who may just find exactly what they’re looking for. For more details, check out https://www.facebook.com/ events/452071758950502/ and the article on page four of this publication. • John Prine Pre-Concert Open Mic & Potluck Buffet is on Sat., Nov. 2 from 3:30-6:30 p.m. Get your favorite John Prine, Guy Clark, or similar songs and sing them out loud for a pre-concert bash. There will be a potluck buffet full of southern comfort food and – Steve Clark recently finished first of 32 in his age potentially – a special guest from Nashville. category at the Genworth VA 10/4 Miler on September No promises, but our fingers are crossed! For 28. Steve says his time (even with his first-place finish) details, check out https://www.facebook.com/ was slower this year than last due to warm and humid events/2416208828703700/. conditions (and to his hauling an extra three or four • New Logo Design Contest is open now through pounds around due to his beer and ice cream diet this Nov. 17th. 3rd Street is looking for a new logo summer). Additionally, Steve’s wife Carolyn competed to brand our website and other things (like in the Four-Mile Walk category in Lynchburg VA. new coffee mugs). If you’re a graphic artist or even just a regular Joe (or Jane) that likes to draw, submit your concept or design by email Musicians needed for annual event to [email protected]. If we adopt your design, you’ll win a $100 combined cash and gift Former SVSA member Marian McConnell notes that certificate package. Check our Facebook page for the Rescue Mission of Roanoke is in need of performing details: https://www.facebook.com/3rd-Street- musicians -- solos, duos, and groups -- to perform on Coffeehouse-190361914329993/. Thanksgiving morning, Thurs Nov 28, between 9:00-10:30 Lastly, if you are interested in being a feature a.m. at various locations in downtown Roanoke VA. The or opening act in 2020, we are currently booking. event is the 14th Annual Atlantic Union Bank Drumstick Contact our booking agent Josh Jones by email – Dash -- a 5K race and family walk to benefit the Rescue [email protected]. Don’t wait too Mission. Contact [email protected] long though, feature dates are going fast! or call 540.343.7227 ext 6930 for more information.
6 | SVSA MUSIC NEWS | OCTOBER 2019 SVSA President Mike DeGiorgi certainly did his recent trip to Nashville up right. However, former SVSA President and noted luthier Larry Sakayama might have something to say about that nut being way too close to the sound hole. Which nut? Well, SVSA Treasurer Mike Franke and his family moved over the Labor Day weekend. Professional movers did the YOU decide. job but there were a FEW items that needed special care. The best part is that there’s room for MORE!
7 | SVSA MUSIC NEWS | OCTOBER 2019 Club Havoc THE FRONT ROW LOCAL, REGIONAL http://clubhavoc.net/author/jojohavoc https://www.facebook.com/ 202 Market Sq Roanoke VA thefrontrowsalemave/ OPEN MICS 540.343.6644 356 Salem Ave Roanoke VA Tuesdays. 9:00 p.m. Hosted by Eric 540.345.1542 Larsen. Thursdays. 8:00 p.m. Bring your own instruments. Come rock the house. Dogtown Roadhouse www.dogtownroadhouse.com GINA’S 302 S Locust St Floyd VA 24091 https://www.facebook.com/ 540.745.6836 pages/Ginas-Food-with- Sundays. All ages. No cover. Music starts Flavor/435558020265249 Submit any Open Mics that are not listed at 6 p.m. Sign-ups begin at 5:30, sign- 4145 B W Main St Salem VA here. We’d like to make this listing as ups for later slots begin at 7 p.m. PA 540.404.3867 comprehensive as possible. Provide the and sound man provided. Fridays. 6:30-9:30 p.m. Hosted by information in the format shown. McFadden and Holmes. Performers Also, if you should see a listing that has DRAPER MERCANTILE & TRADING CO. eat free. Musicians contact Peggy at shut down, or if you know of an update http://www.drapermerc.com/open- Gina’s. to the current entries, drop a line to the mic-night.html SVSA gmail address. Let’s keep this a 3054 Greenbriar Rd Draper VA 24324 Good Times Tavern vital and up-to-date source. 540.994.5659 https://m.facebook.com/ Fridays. 6-8:30 p.m. All talents welcome. goodtimestavern540/ BILLY’S BARN Will provide one mic, PA assistance. 3107 Williamson Rd Roanoke VA http://www.the-cellar.com/ 20 minutes for musical acts, 10 for all 540.849.7407 1790 Thompson Memorial Dr Salem VA others. Must be family friendly and not Open Mic / Jam Session 24153 too loud/disruptive. Tuesdays. 7-10 p.m. Hosted by Melissa 540.728.0270 Mesko. Mondays. 7-10 p.m. Artists receive a DUE SOUTH BBQ mixed mp3 and a chance at $500. www.duesouthbbq.com Gospel Café 1465 Roanoke St Christiansburg VA https://www.facebook.com/pages/ BLIND BILL’S RESTAURANT 540.381.2922 Gospel-Cafe/392559714096332 https://blindbills.com Wednesdays. 6-10:00 p.m. In the Pig 926 Indiana Ave NE Roanoke VA 6724 White House Rd Huddleston VA Pen. Hosted by Rick Krajnyak and Tim 540.314.1423 540.297.6078 Pakledinaz. Fri and Sat nights. 7-10 p.m. Fridays. 8:00 p.m. Hosted by Steve Guidus. FATBACK SOUL SHACK MAIN STREET CAFÉ www.fatbacksoulshack.com https://www.facebook.com/ B-Sides 2440 Roanoke St Christiansburg VA mainstreetcafe434/ https://bsides33.com/ 540.251.3182 521 N Main St South Boston VA 467 Franklin St Rocky Mount VA Mondays. 6:30-8:30 p.m. PA provided. 434.738.3524 540.456.2337 Bring your instrument of choice and Thursdays. Open Mic / Open Jam 8:30 Tuesdays 7-10:00 p.m. Hosted by Dilly show us what you’ve got. All talent p.m.-12:30 a.m. Bring your instrument Valley Recordings. levels welcome. and jam! Or just sit and eat, drink, dance, and listen to good music. No THE CELLAR 5 Points Music Sanctuary cover charge. Hosted by Mike Warren. http://www.the-cellar.com/ http://www.5pointsmusic.com/ 302 N Main St Blacksburg VA 24060 1217 Maple Ave SW Roanoke VA MELODY HOOKAH LOUNGE 540.953.0651 540.795.5618 https://www.facebook.com/Melody- Mondays. 9:00 p.m.-12:30 a.m. Blues 1st and 3rd Sundays. Doors open at 5:00 Hookah-Lounge-1834216276875768/ jam. p.m. Sign-up begins at 5:30 p.m. Show 109 N Main St Blacksburg VA starts at 6:00 p.m. Comedy and poetry 540.739.3377 CHARLEY’S are welcome. This event is FREE. Sundays. 9-??:00 p.m. http://www.charleyslynchburg.com/ Musicians, singers, comedians, artists, 707 Graves Mill Rd Lynchburg VA FLOYD COUNTRY STORE rappers, bands. 434.237.5988 http://www.floydcountrystore.com/ 1st and 3rd Wednesdays of month. 7:00- music/sunday-music-jam 10:00 p.m. Bring your instrument and 206 S Locust St Floyd VA 24091 vocal talent! $5 food discount to the More Open Mic 540.745.4563 first 10 people to sign in. Hosted by listings on page 9 Sundays. All ages. No cover charge. Old- Jodie Davis. Time music 1:30-3:30 p.m. Bluegrass jam 4-5:30 p.m.
8 | SVSA MUSIC NEWS | OCTOBER 2019 instrument, open ears, and tapping community of musicians from first toes. Tips encouraged for musicians, timers to old timers. Come out to LOCAL, REGIONAL no cover. listen, come out to play, come out to show support for local music. OPEN MICS RIVER CITY GRILL Continued from page 8 https://www.facebook.com/ STARR HILL PILOT BREWERY & SIDE Radford-Fiddle-and-Banjo- STAGE The Mill Iron Grill Jam-191719767524461/ https://starrhill.com/tap-room- https://www.facebook.com/The-Mill- 103 Third St. Radford VA 24141 locations/roanoke-pilot-brewery- Iron-Grill-114614645259055/ 540.629.2130 side-stage/ 10190 Stewartsville Rd Goodview VA Mondays. 7-10:00 p.m. Radford Fiddle 6 Old Whitmore Ave Roanoke VA 540.890.4766 & Banjo bluegrass jam. Hosted by 540.685.2012 Saturdays 8-midnight Chris Bell. Mondays. 6-9:00 p.m. Bring your own All levels of talent welcome. Hosted by instrument and join the jam. Hosted Rick Selfridge. Roanoke Diversity Center by Brian Mesko. http://www.roanokediversitycenter. Mulligan’s com STONEY BADGER TAVERN http://mulligansbarandgrill.info/ 806 Jamison Ave SE Roanoke VA http://www.stoneybadgertavern.com/ 6419 Williamson Rd Roanoke VA 540.491.4165 3009 Old Forest Rd Lynchburg VA 540.265.7484 1st Fridays. Play an instrument, sing a 434.384.3004 Mondays. 8-11 p.m. Hosted by Phil song, read a poem, sing karaoke, or Tuesdays. 9:00 p.m.-1:00 a.m. What Chitwood. just enjoy. No cover. Snacks provided. started as an idea has become a Small PA, two guitars, keyboard community of artists that help each Ober Brewing Company available – or bring your own other learn and grow on stage. http://www.oberbrewing.com/ instruments (no drums but smaller 1443 Lakeside Cir Salem VA percussion instruments allowed). SWEET DONKEY COFFEE HOUSE 540.404.0050 http://www.sweetdonkeycoffee.com/ Fridays 6-9:30 p.m. ROCK THE MIC - ROANOKE 2108 Broadway Ave SW Roanoke VA Bring your friends, show your talent, http://www.kingdomofrock.com/ 540.491.0004 share some laughs and a few beers. Rosetti’s Family Bistro Every other Friday (check web site for 202 Market St Roanoke VA announcement). 6-9:00 p.m. Hosted Parkway Brewery Wednesdays and Fridays. Killer sound, by Charissa Morrison. Bring your http://www.parkwaybrewing.com lights, merchandise table, sponsor instrument or bring your friends. 739 Kessler Mill Rd Salem VA giveaways. Loud rock and blues 540.404.9810 improv, covers, and shows. Sycamore Deli Mondays 4-8:00 p.m. http://www.sycamoredeli.com Majestic Mic jamboree welcomes SCHOONERS 211B Draper Rd Blacksburg VA anyone to try their hand at music. www.schoonersbar.org 540.951.9817 Hosted by Eric Larsen. 7226 Williamson Rd Roanoke VA Blacksburg Old-Time Jam. Wednesdays 540.563.4956 7-9:00 p.m. Open to anyone playing THE Q OPEN MiC Tuesdays 8-11:00 p.m. Bring your own Old-Time style. http://www.theqlive.com instrument. Hosted by Tim Rowlett. 8118 Plantation Rd Roanoke VA 3rd street coffeehouse 540.362.8437 Soaring Ridge Craft Brewers https://m.facebook.com/3rd-Street- Wednesdays 8:30 p.m. - ? http://www.soaringridge.com/ Coffeehouse-190361914329993 15 minute set. PA provided. Hosted by 523 Shenandoah Ave NW, Roanoke VA Trinity United Methodist Church Scott Joshway. 540.339.9776 305 Mountain Ave SW Roanoke Fridays 6-9:00 p.m. Take the stage and 540.309.4707 RADFORD COFFEE COMPANY share your sound, or just sit back and https://www.facebook.com/ 1st Thursday Guitar Pull / Song Circle. cheer on the locals who share theirs. 6:30-9:00 p.m. Smoke-free, alcohol- radfordcoffeeco/?hc_ Hosted by Betsy in The Verse. ref=NEWSFEED&fref=nf free, no cover. Hosted by Jim Page. 3rd Thursday Open Mic. 6:30-9:00 p.m. 333 W Main St Radford VA SOUVLAKI Smoke-free, alcohol-free, no cover. 540.838.2399 http://www.eatsouvlaki.com/ Hosted by Aspen Black. Saturdays. 6-9:00 p.m. Acoustic, rock, 1154 E Main St Radford VA poetry, etc. Small PA available. 540.633.0555 WHITE HART CAFÉ Wednesdays 6-8:00 p.m. Open to all. RISING SILO BREWERY http://www.thewhitehartcoffee.com/ 1208 Main St Lynchburg VA www.RisingSiloBrewery.com SPIKE’S GRILL 434.207.5600 2351 Glade Rd Blacksburg VA https://m.facebook.com/spikes.grill/ Fridays. 6-9:00 p.m. We will provide a 410.596.1200 1914 Memorial Ave SW Roanoke VA mic and you provide the talent. Open Monthly Irish Jam. Fridays, 7-9:00 540.345.9744 for all music, art, comedy, etc. p.m. Sit-ins welcome. Bring your Thursdays 9:30-close. A welcoming
9 | SVSA MUSIC NEWS | OCTOBER 2019 Look It Up by Mike DeGiorgi When I was a little kid learning to read, I was always intrigued by words that I’d never heard of. I’d run to my mom and point to the word and ask, “Mom, What’s this word mean?” Her response never varied... “Look it up,” she’d say, and then she’d hand me a dictionary. It seemed like a small gesture, but I still turn to a dictionary when I don’t understand words, concepts, theories, and yes ... even song lyrics. Yesterday, I looked up the word “colitas.” It’s in the second line of Hotel California, a song I’ve listened to at least a thousand times. It’s also one of those songs that begs to be deciphered and understood, with a level of clarity that even The Eagles resisted from the moment it was released. But I digress. “Colitas”... Well, it’s a flower. It’s also a reference to Mexican food. Oh, it’s also a reference to pot and cocaine. Finally, if you interpret its literal Spanish meaning, it becomes a crude reference to a woman. I never knew this until yesterday ... when after all these years, I finally looked it up! I was pretty amused at the number of Web references devoted to deciphering that word and the rest of the lyrics to Hotel California. The truth is, I really don’t care what the song means. I like it anyway. It’s fun, has a cool melody and a great set of guitar solos at the end. Now that I know what “Colitas” are, or might be, I can tell you that it’s of no consequence to me. It’s just a great song. As a songwriter, I’ve never felt an ounce of responsibility for explaining my song lyrics to a listener. Heck, sometimes I don’t even know what they mean! You don’t know a word in the Recently, SVSA member David Bowen and his group lyrics? Well look it up! Can’t figure out the deeper Acoustic Reset did their thing at the Quarryville meaning? Maybe there isn’t one. Or, maybe Presbyterian Retirement Community in Quarryville there is and you’ll figure it out for yourself ... PA. Bowen and his pals share their time and if you want to. It’s not my job to lyrically spell talent for Musicians Bedside Manner, a non-profit everything out ... unless I want to. I’m not exactly sure where that fine line organization. Performing SVSA members often between art and a set of IKEA instructions is, but offer their services for charities, benefits, non-profit I sure don’t ever want to cross it. organizations, and other charitable events.
10 | SVSA MUSIC NEWS | OCTOBER 2019 SVSA mans the phones for local public radio fundraiser
They may not look like the sharpest knives in the drawer but SVSA members Mike Franke (foreground, left) and Marc Baskind were among the association’s members who did a bang-up job manning the phones at the most recent fundraiser for local public radio station WVTF. The SVSA has been a presence at a number of fundraisers for the station through the years. Naturally, the SVSA realizes the importance of the musical services provided by local public radio but it also appreciates the station’s mission statement: “To produce and acquire programming and services of value, reflecting the culture, events, issues, and ideas of our region and the world, and to combine them into an evolving communications service of the highest quality for the people of Virginia and its bordering community.”
11 | SVSA MUSIC NEWS | OCTOBER 2019 SVSAers Alice and Aspen Black showcased on Long-time SVSAer Steve Langston is pictured September 27 at the Library of Virginia where the here performing at a 3rd Street Coffeehouse Open Summer Reading themed program this year is Mic back in July. Steve is one of the eight SVSAers “World Mythology & Fairy Tales In Song.” selected for the upcoming showcase on Oct. 25. Old friends meet Here’s Greg Trafidlo with his friend Marcy Marxer. Kathy Fink and Marcy performed at the Bristol Rhythm and Roots Revival a month ago. Kathy and Marcy are two- time Grammy winners for their children’s albums. Greg has known Kathy and Marcy for decades. They played together a few times with Tom Paxton at the Birchmere in Alexandria VA. They have performed internationally, and recorded with Tom over many years. They produced Tom’s latest CD release, Boat In The Water.
12 | SVSA MUSIC NEWS | OCTOBER 2019 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 DATE FEATURE ACT...... OPENING ACT or poems, offer CDs and merch for Oct 25 SVSA Showcase...... no opener Oct 26 Musicians Swap Meet sale, and hang out with folks who Nov 01 Jim Lord...... Frank Dieter share your interests. The next “Third Nov 02 John Prine Pre-Concert Open Mic & Potluck Buffet Thursdays at Third Street all Open Nov 07 1st Thurs Guitar Pull / Song Circle Mic” will be on November 21. Sign Nov 08 Virginia Hollow...... The Entwined up begins at 6:30 and ends when Nov 21 3rd Thurs All Open Mic the list is full (15). Beyond 15 will Nov 22 Steve Langston...... TBA immediately go into the lottery for remaining slots at the end. Length of performance is determined by the number of participants. All levels of proficiency and styles are welcome, so long as your songs are appropriate for all audiences. 3rd Street Coffeehouse also holds a “First Thursday Guitar Pull / Song Circle” from 7:00-9:00 p.m. Hosted 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 SVSA member Frank Dieter setting. The next “First Thursday will open for headliner Guitar Pull / Song Circle” will be held Jim Lord at 3rd Street Photo by CRISTINA GREEN Coffeehouse on Nov 1. November 7.
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.
13 | SVSA MUSIC NEWS | OCTOBER 2019 On August 30, David Simpkins and the KGB (Britt Mistele, Kathy Acosta, Greg Trafidlo) -- SVSA members all -- opened for performing songwriter Steve Smith at 3rd Street Coffeehouse in Roanoke VA. The group was pleased with the large and enthusiastic audience.
SVSA Performing Members’ Upcoming Gigs SVSA members Oct. 2019 Kathy Acosta Jerry Gilmore Eric Mosley MARC BAskind David Barudin Egan Green Jake Orzalli Marc Baskind Mary Gordon Hall Mollye Otis Sunday evenings (with exceptions), Luigi’s Alice Black Dale Hamilton Charles (Jack) Page Restaurant, solo background, 6-9:00 p.m., Aspen Black George Harris Mike Pearrell Roanoke VA. Clay Blevins Larry Helms Dick Raymond Oct 26, Big Lick Tropical Grill, with the Heat Of David Bowen Dan Hildebrand Larry Sakayama The Night Band, 8-11:00 p.m., Lynchburg VA. Steve Clark Celie Holmes Bob Schmucker Dennis Danner Matt Horner Denise Schmucker ASPEN BLACK with Kerry Grombacher Evelyn Danner Josh Jones David Simpkins Sam Darby Jimmie Landry Jeff Smith Oct 25-27, Red Steagall Gathering, Ft. Worth TX. Frank Dieter Ashley Lucas Bill Stanton Mike DeGiorgi Barbara Martin Greg Trafidlo Charlie Divers Liz McAuley Randolph Walker Paul Douglas Britt Mistele Tony Wegmann Mike Franke Paul Morrissey Bob Coulter (In Memoriam) Sid Crosswhite (Lifetime)
14 | SVSA MUSIC NEWS | OCTOBER 2019 SVSA Members’ Recordings
what’s done is done marc with a “c” long story short eyes on the water
carved in song folk singular co-writers in disguise old dog, new tracks
Mike Franke Greg Trafidlo what’s done is done — A debut release of Carved in Song— Most songs co-written 14 original folk and blues tunes about everyday with some of Greg’s favorite songwriters. life and interesting people featuring Mike’s Listen to audio clips at gregtrafidlo.com. fingerstyle and slide guitar. folk singular— Greg’s third solo CD reflects the diversity of his songwriting Marc Baskind and production skills. With SVSA-ers on marc with a “c”— Sampler CD of covers background vocals, and Marc Baskind on and original songs offers a taste of the varied guitar and vocals. styles of this accomplished guitarist/singer. Co-Writers in Disguise — Contemporary folk/country with an emphasis on well-crafted David Simpkins lyrics and humor. With a number of SVSA Long Story Short — Offers 12 original members appearing on the CD. Americana tunes blending rock, folk, blues, and country. Old Dog – New Tracks — Songs that range from silly to sublime, drawing you in with warmth, wit, and humor. Songs include “I Got The Panini Brothers Stuck Behind Buford,” “Time is a Mountain,” Eyes on the water — Debut CD from a and “The Tumbler.” Buy it from CD Baby or group comprised of SVSA members Larry contact Greg at [email protected]. Sakayama and Mike DeGiorgi as well as Chip Conway, Mark Earnhardt, and Scott Thomas. Jazzy, bluesey, eclectic, original tunes.
15 | SVSA MUSIC NEWS | OCTOBER 2019 SVSA Members’ Recordings
the crawlspace tapes silver winkin’ pacing the moon
cup of contradictions dimestore detective dog joggin’ songwriter sessions Greg Trafidlo Mike Pearrell THE CRAWLSPACE TAPES — Greg’s newest cup of contradictions — 13 original CD is a compilation of all his funny and songs. Lots of SVSA musicians singing and goofy stuff. Tom Paxton says, “Loosen up, playing. sourpusses. Greg is on the loose again!” dimestore detective — Mike’s first solo CD features 14 original songs. Produced by Trifolkal Greg Trafidlo; with a number of guest SVSA SILVER — The trio celebrates 25 years musicians. Available at Mike’s shows. together with a “fan favorite” collection of covers from the Beach Boys to Tom Paxton. Steve Clark winkin’ — This top-notch release from that DOG JOGGIN’ — Eleven sweet and true “trio fiercely dedicated to fun” tempers the amusing tunes comprise this quirky singer/ fun with poignancy and heart. songwriter CD. Available at cdbaby.com.
Josh Jones The Entwined Pacing the Moon — Thirteen of the SONGWRITER SESSIONS — The CD was strongest songs Josh has written. For lyrics, released at Francis Ford Coppola’s Turtle Inn short audio clips and additional information, Resort in Belize in 2018. It’s a mix of 13 songs please visit www.jonesgroupmusic.com. written by Dan Hildebrand ranging from real- life ballads to feel-good ditties. Recorded at Blackwater Studios. Percussion and harmony by Adonna Lemon.
16 | SVSA MUSIC NEWS | OCTOBER 2019 SVSA Members’ Recordings
tales from the road eastern western from the heart of a horsegirl poet cowgirl cowgirl
lovin’ the west my life gumbo style Aspen Black Jimmie Landry Tales From the Road — 15 original poems MY LIFE — Jimmie sings stories about his with musical backup. Every poem has a tie to friends, family, and life on the road. A jazzy- a road, although the road is never the subject. blues New Orleans-style piano and vocals Either the road runs through it, shows up in paint a picture of 60 years in music. a fleeting moment, or the whole story was inspired by, or witnessed “on the road.” GUMBO — Hot and spicy down-home jazz, funk, and soul that goes down easy. Ten Eastern Western Cowgirl — Eight originals and three covers. original Contemporary Western songs. Available at CDBaby.com/aspenblack7. STYLE — A blend of standards and one original in a variety of grooves like straight-ahead from the heart of a cowgirl — swing, samba, jazz, waltz, and funky second- Original spoken word poems adhering to the line blues. Western Music Association guidelines for the cowboy poetry genre. Available at CDBaby. horsegirl poet — Songs and poems about “If you pour your life into horses, cowboys, and rural life. Available at songs, you want them to CDBaby. be heard. It’s a desire to LOVIN’ THE WEST — This is the latest CD communicate. A deep desire released by Western Music Association singer/ to communicate inspires songwriter – and SVSA member – Aspen Black. It features 10 original selections, seven of songwriting.” which are road-tested favorites. ~ Bono, U2
17 | SVSA MUSIC NEWS | OCTOBER 2019 SVSA Members’ Recordings
electric bill acoustic bill Bill Stanton ELECTRIC BILL — Ten original songs of Bill’s lyrics and melodies accompanied by former bandmates on electric instruments and vocal harmonies originally recorded in the 1980s. ACOUSTIC BILL — Ten original songs with lyrics and melodies by Bill accompanied by former bandmates on acoustic instruments and vocal harmonies recorded from the early SVSAers Mike Pearrell and Mary Gordon Hall (top row, 1970s through 2000. left) attended a songwriting and performance retreat at Wildacres, which is located atop Pompey’s Knob, a mountain near the Blue Ridge Parkway in Little Switzerland NC. The workshops, held Sept 30 - Oct 4 and overseen by noted performing songwriter Freddy Bradburn (bottom row center), concentrated on songwriting in the morning and guitar playing and styles in the afternoon. There were jam sessions and performances during the evening.
SVSA Treasurer Mike Franke (left) is a frequent performer at 3rd Street Coffeehouse and is a volunteer there as well. (Photo by Judy Larson.)
“The evolution of a song is like a snake with its tail in its mouth. That’s evolution. That’s what it is. As soon as you’re there, you find your tail.”
18 | SVSA MUSIC NEWS | OCTOBER 2019 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 DeGiorgi – 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 Mike Franke – Treasurer e-mailed to members as soon as they are received and, Mollye Otis - At-Large Board Member if still timely, published in an upcoming issue of the Bill Stanton - At-Large Board Member SVSA Music News. Announcements from non-members Dennis Danner - At-Large Board Member will be held for publication in an upcoming issue of the Larry Helms - At-Large Board Member SVSA Music News.
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
19 | SVSA MUSIC NEWS | OCTOBER 2019