In some Chinese folklore, it is believed that the gods tie an invisible red cord around the ankles of those that are destined to meet one another in a certain situation or help each other in a certain way. I love this concept. I envision a red string attached to me throughout my life and … More The red string
Creating a practice plan helps to keep you on task and bring you further to your goals. Here’s my practice plan. What’s yours? … More Creating a practice plan
As a traditional Irish fiddler, I have never learned how to improvise on the fiddle. Like most other traditional musicians I know, everything I play, I learned by ear. This past week I started a class at Berklee College of Music on basic improvisation. It’s only been a week and I can confidently say it’s … More Going back to the beginning and starting over
I have rediscovered my love for mountain biking. Recently, I went out on an all-women’s mountain bike ride. I have to admit I felt a bit out of shape, especially on the climbs where I held steady as the caboose of the group. (In my defense I still ride a hard tail and was most likely … More How music is like mountain biking
June, when the weather is warm, the days are long and music festivals and concerts in Vermont are abundant. June is the true beginning of summer and what better way to enjoy it but with some Irish music. There are a couple of Irish music events around Vermont this month that you won’t want to miss: … More Irish music in June
One of things I love about Irish music, and most Celtic music in general, is it makes me want to get up and dance. After all, it is dance music. Dancing is such a big part of this tradition and learning the dances actually helps in learning the tunes. This weekend, whether you’re a musician … More Music that makes you want to dance
I’m always impressed with melody musicians who can just call out the key of the next tune they are going to play. I have a hard time just lifting my foot to say I’m switching tunes. Not to mention, most of the time I have no idea what keys I play in. Aren’t all fiddle tunes … More The key to being a good musician
I didn’t grow up in a very religious family. We were not required to go to church on Sundays but we did celebrate Christmas eve and Easter at church every year. Easter for us as kids was more about waking up to a basket filled with candy that some imaginary bunny delivered, a big dinner with family and the … More 100th Anniversary of the Easter Rising
I’m claiming March St. Patrick’s Month. I mean why limit the music and celebration to just one day? There is so much going on in the next few weeks it’s almost impossible to keep track of it all. Below is my attempt. In the meantime, check out this band coming to the Barre Opera house:
Recently, I was talking to an old college friend who is a professional poker player now and has been for over 10 years. I find this profession to be very intriguing (if only I could play poker). I imagine the life of a poker player is similar to the life of a professional musician in … More How playing music is like playing poker
Session Obsession 