I’m really happy to combine my PPAC Challenge entry this week with my musical content.
This hand painted sign is a repurposed old door outside Cleere’s Bar and Theater in Kilkenny.
I’ve got another post planned to describe the incredible musical experience I had at Cleere’s, but for now, please be sure to check out their YouTube channel below. Also, be sure to check out my recent post about the music in Dublin. Perhaps it will hold you over until you can plan a trip to Ireland.
This is a common sense hobby – you probably don’t need someone like me to suggest it. But I bet for most of you it’s been months or even years since you’ve done it… so indulge while I nudge you a little bit.
Dedicate Time to Focus on Active Listening
Minimize distractions: let the dog out, put the kids down for nap, and silence your phone.
Grab a note book and pen so you can take notes. Scribble what do you like about the instrumentation, any lyrics that stand out, and any emotions you feel.
Consider headphones: this will help you hear the depth and spacing of the instruments better. Any headphones will do, but noise cancelling over ear will help block out the world and let you get lost in the soundscape.
Get comfortable: Dim the lights, light a candle, and pour some wine.
Listen to your favorite tune, or try out something you’ve never heard before. (See the playlist below for suggestions if you’re looking for something new).
Set a reasonable volume: heavy metal should me loud, classical music should be loud enough to hear dynamics, or whatever is appropriate for the tune you’re enjoying.
When the song is over, review your notes in silence- add any final impressions you have. If you feel compelled, listen again.
Move on to another tune. Then when you are done with the session take a moment to reflect. Did you learn anything new about your artist, album, song, genre etc? Can you draw any new conclusions?
Is there something that you’d like to share? Publish on social media or share with friends or consider starting a song club.
The most important thing is that you make the time, because if you don’t, life will get in the way and you’ll miss out. Get listening!
“I wish I’d kept up my piano lessons!” How many people do yo
Never too late
The Always Write Blog challenges users to post art found in public places. Here is another submittal for the PPAC Challenge #61.
You can find this colorful artwork in the lobby of the Guinness Open Gate Brewery in Dublin, Ireland. Truth be told, this sculpture is technically just beyond turnstiles of the facility so I shouldn’t submit it because the rules say that the art should be free. You can see this from the lobby without paying if you really want to, but seriously, pay to go in. You’ll find lots of great artistic exhibits including sculptures, advertising campaigns, educational material, and of course beer!
Why in the world is this thing called the guitar GRATER. It is obviously meant to be the guitar SHEDDER.
Sharing a fun story about a garage band I did as an unconventional back-to-school piece. Teenagers are still teenagers. 🙂
Garage bands, guitars, notebook paper
I recently learned of the PPAC Challenge and thought it would be fun to share pic I snapped of some staged graffiti in the Moxy Hotel in Dublin. Don’t worry, I’m sure it was done legally since it’s inside the bar.
I’m sure it’s not considered high fine art, but it, it makes me chuckle when I see it. Art is meant to elicit emotion- am I wrong?
I recently learned of the PPAC Challenge and thought it would be fun to share pic I snapped of this fellow playing the banjo.
This is by an artist named Eric Schultz and it is called “Reconnecting.” I spotted it during the Memorial Day parade in Hopewell, New Jersey.
You can pursue your dreams of rock superstardom with any guitar, be it from an expensive luthier, a pawn shop, or a mail order catalog. But to join …
A Guitar From Scratch
Plan M: Finding Joy in Music Blog 