"At the end of the day"

Dear friends,

I hope everyone is enjoying the start of the new year... a time for new beginnings... and some endings, as well. This year, 2012, will be my TENTH year playing in the pit for the Monsignor Bonner ("Bonner") and Archbishop Prendergast ("Prendie") High School musicals... and quite probably my last. It's hard for me to believe I've been playing for these schools, with the same group of wonderful musicians and even better people, for this long... but harder to believe there almost certainly won't be any more Bonner or Prendie musicals after the spring of 2012.

Why no more musicals? Well, no more schools, that's why. The Philadelphia Archdiocese recently made the decision to close several schools in the region, and unfortunately Bonner and Prendie were among the schools chosen to be closed after the end of this school year. Naturally, the kids currently attending the schools are devastated, as are the families and surrounding communities. The schools are currently going through an appeal process, and Archbishop Chaput will then make a final decision which is expected to be made public in mid-February. My hopes aren't too high that the appeal will be successful, but lots of prayers are being said in the community for a positive outcome.

I didn't personally attend Prendie, but my dad, his brothers and sisters, as well as several friends and friends' parents did. And I have close ties to the school, having been involved with the musicals for the past ten years. Ten. Years. Almost one-third of my life.

Playing in the pit orchestra for the Bonner and Prendie musicals introduced me to so many great musicians who became close friends, and opened so many other musical opportunities for me. Thanks to my involvement in the musicals there, I have had the opportunity to play for other high schools, for community theaters, in community orchestras, in local big bands. The friendships I have built and the experience I have gained have been invaluable. These experiences have made me a better musician over the years, and a better person. To be a musician in a pit orchestra is quite the experience. You have to be "on" and ready for things to change at any moment... ready for the kids to come in early... or not come in at all... ready to vamp a four-bar phrase 100 times... ready to switch instruments mid-measure... ready to discretely launch into the circus theme song at just the right moment during a tune just so the closest pit members around you can hear... (Matt M. you know what I'm talking about ;)

Sure, some people think I'm a total nut for playing in these musicals every spring and fall, religiously (pun intended), for let's face it, not the greatest pay, at the end of the day. But most who know me know I don't play for the money, but for the experience. At the risk of sounding totally cheesy, there is something I get out of playing in the pit with the same group season after season that I cannot put into words. Get me in that pit and I am totally in my element, doing what I love to do. I'm in the zone. I feel alive! I'm not thinking about anything else but the music... okay goofing off a little, too. It's just true joy that I get out of it and that's what life is all about.

Regardless of the impending closing of the schools, there will be at least one more musical this spring. Bonner will present "Les Miserables", which feels fitting for me, in many ways. "Les Miserables" was the first musical I saw at Prendie back in 2002. I played my first show, "Guys and Dolls", at Bonner the following spring. "Les Mis" also happens to be one of my favorite shows. And last spring I played "Les Mis" at Pope John Paul II H.S., which was around the time of some new beginnings for me... now I'll play it this spring at a time where I'm facing some endings... this show will be the book-ends for a period of my life and experiences I will never forget. And then it will be time for a new chapter to begin...

The shows dates and times for "Les Miserables" at Bonner are as follows:

Friday, March 16th - 8 pm

Saturday, March 17th - 8 pm

Sunday, March 18th - 2 pm

Friday, March 23rd - 8 pm

Saturday, March 24th - 8 pm

Sunday, March 25th - 2 pm

Friday, March 30th - 8 pm

Saturday, March 31st - 8 pm

I will be playing one of the reed books on sax/flute/clarinet and I plan to be at every show. I truly hope for an overwhelming turnout for these final shows, and would love to see familiar faces in the audience. If you can make it to a show, and are interested in purchasing tickets, please let me know. As always, tickets are $10, in advance or at the door.

I look forward to seeing many familiar faces and to a very emotional, possibly final musical at Bonner.

Musically yours,
Tina

Archbishop Prendergast High School Presents: "FOOTLOOSE!"

Hello friends!

Wow, it's been a long time!  It's amazing how life gets busy and the time flies by... and you get away from the things you wish you had time to do... like write about music, for instance!  In any case, I'll keep this one short and sweet, and hope to be back soon with more!!

I will be performing in the pit again for this fall's Prendie production, "Footloose" which opens... TONIGHT!  So, if you are looking for something to do this weekend or next... check it out! I'll be playing clarinet and flute this time around, and believe it or not, my flute skills have improved a good deal since Prendie's production of "Annie" last fall (which makes me very excited :)

"Footloose" Show Dates/Times:

Friday November 11 - 7:30 pm

Saturday November 12 - 7:30 pm

Sunday November 13 - 2 pm (I'll miss this one)

Friday November 18 - 7:30 pm

Saturday November 19 - 7:30 pm

Sunday November 20 - 2 pm

Tickets, as per usual for Bonner & Prendie H.S. productions, are $9.50 in advance or $10 at the door.  Tickets purchased in advance must be picked up prior to the show.  Call Mrs. Rocco at 610-259-0280 for more information!

Hope to see you there!

~Tina

A Memorial Music Marathon in May!!

Hi Friends!

If someone told me I would have the opportunity to participate in an event that combined my passions for music and running, allowed me to spend time with friends (including watching many of them perform), and supported a cause that is dear to my heart -- music education, I would sign up in a heartbeat.  And that's just what I did when I learned about the third annual Brad Schoener Fund Music Marathon, scheduled to take place on Saturday, May 21st, in Upper Darby, PA.

A Little Background about the Music Marathon...

The "Music Marathon" is organized by The Brad Schoener Memorial Fund, a music education charity based in Upper Darby. The fund was founded to honor the legacy of Brad Schoener, a musician, athlete, and inspirational music teacher of 25 years for thousands of students in the Upper Darby School District, who lost his five-year battle with cancer in March 2009.

The Music Marathon is said to have grown out of "an idea Brad had several years ago to hold an event that was a celebration of music of all kinds".  Now his family and hundreds of students and alumni, colleagues and friends organize this event, which has been described as "a carnival of music" taking place inside and outside the Upper Darby Performing Arts Center.

The Mission of the Fund

"To support the musical abilities and aspirations of instrumental music students in the Upper Darby School District through the funding of instruments, instruction, and experiences to interested and talented students who might not otherwise have the opportunities due to personal circumstances." 

Brad hoped the fund would accomplish the following goals:

• To provide lessons for talented students who may not be able to afford them 
• To provide instruments for all elementary students who have the desire to learn 
• To establish a summer music camp for elementary students

The Third Annual Music Marathon!

I first learned of the Music Marathon from my good friend Andy (a.k.a. "Andy the trombone player"), who plays with the Upper Darby Sousa Band, just one of the many many groups performing at this year's event.   There will be a variety of musical performances, including bagpipers, jazz combos, string ensembles, drumlines, funk, rock, R & B, and pop, starting at 9 am and going into the evening hours.  And, I recently learned that some other good friends of mine are headlining the day's concerts... who else but Chico's Vibe, of course!!  

Chico's Vibe Performing at the 2010 Music Marathon

The third annual Music Marathon will take place on Saturday, May 21, 2011, and kick off with a 5k Run/2 Mile Fun Walk, scheduled to start at 10 am across the street from the Upper Darby Performing Arts Center.  You can view a complete schedule of the day's events here.  

The 5K Run/2 Mile Fun Walk

Date: Saturday, May 21, 2011
Time: 10:00am
Location: Arlington Cemetery
Address: 2900 State Road, Drexel Hill PA 19026 (map)
Race day registration & packet pick-up: on site from 8:30-9:30am
On-Site Registration Opens @ 8:00 am or register in advance online!

A description of the race, taken from the music marathon's website:

"A two loop run course, (or one loop walk) in beautiful Arlington Cemetery, the resting place of Upper Darby’s beloved band director, Brad Schoener.  Along the course, runners and walkers will be treated to live music by some of Brad’s students and friends."

Concluding Thoughts...

The Music Marathon is going to be a fantastic event for a great cause.  I am excited to be involved in this event, as a participant in the 5K race, a volunteer, a supporter of the fund (I have donated piano lessons to be raffled off), and a spectator of the many great musical performances that will take place on May 21st in honor of Brad Schoener and the mission of his fund.  I look forward to seeing many bright and smiling, familiar faces, and hope that those of you who were not aware of this event will decide to stop by for at least part of the day.

Musically yours,
Tina

Monsignor Bonner High School Presents "GREASE"...and Related Musical Thoughts!

Hi Friends and Happy "Hump Day!"

I hope everyone is enjoying the week.  I know I personally have been enjoying a string of music-filled days that will continue into this weekend!

This past Sunday, I sat in on a rehearsal of "Grease" the musical at Monsignor Bonner High School (which I'll get to shortly), followed by a performance on clarinet with Box Five at Andrea Clearfield's lovely musical salon.  (See the "Photos" page for a couple of photos from the event.)

Monday night, I had the pleasure of attending the CD release party for Orrin Evans' Captain Black Big Band -- a band comprised of very impressive musicians, including friends Victor North on tenor sax and Stafford Hunter on trombone.  NPR recently did a nice write-up of the band, as did the Philadelphia Inquirer.  I highly recommend checking them out!!

Last night, after indulging in a fantastic dessert (my first experience with "chocolate by the bald man", aka Max Brenner, which will hopefully not be my last!!), went to check out the final Tuesday night jazz jam hosted by Victor North and his house band at Chris' Jazz Cafe.  After about a two-year run, a new house band will be brought in for the Tuesday night jam session. Meanwhile, Victor will start hosting the late-night jazz jam on Friday nights at Chris' in April.

That brings me to Wednesday, and this evening my musical journey will take me back to Bonner H.S. for dress rehearsal for the school's spring production of "Grease"!  And in typical Tina fashion, with every new show I play, I shall learn a new instrument!  This time around, it is tenor sax, which is at this point is I think the only member of the saxophone family I had not played until now.  The school was kind enough to rent one for me, and I must say I'm seriously considering purchasing it.  As far as I'm concerned, you can never have enough musical instruments in your closet, haha!  Hey, you never know when someone is going to need a tenor sub!  One thing I will say -- I remember playing baritone sax in eighth grade when the case was essentially bigger than me, and I don't remember it being as heavy as this tenor!!  Maybe I am just growing weaker in my old age, despite my persistent attempts at keeping up with my strength training :)

Another challenge with this show is that I am forced to face my struggle with improvising/soloing.  I'm not afraid to admit my weaknesses, and honestly, I'm a classically trained musician with a serious appreciation for jazz who never really bothered to learn to play it, aside from reading what's on the paper.  When playing with big bands in the past, I have always passed up soloing out of fear, which is probably one of the stupidest things I could have done and still do... until now!!  I am finally facing my fear of improvising, and hoping to get my feet a little wet with "Grease" by playing a few short solos on tenor where applicable.  A huge "thank you" to my friend, Joe Fisher, who was kind enough to spend some time with me last week refreshing my memory on things like Blues/Pentatonic Scale (DUH!) -- wouldn't you know it, it's not really that hard!!!  So, I'm going to give it my best shot and see what happens.  If I fall on my face, so what?

So, if you'd like to come see me embarrass myself by attempting to improvise on tenor sax, you can catch me at one of four performances of "Grease" at Bonner.  I'll be part of the pit for the following shows: April 3, 8, 9, & 10.  However, there are eight shows in total, and a complete listing of show dates and times is below!

GREASE! Show Dates/Times:

Friday April 1 - 7:30 pm

Saturday April 2 - 7:30 pm

Sunday April 3 - 2 pm

Friday April 8 - 7:30 pm

Saturday April 9 - 7:30 pm

Sunday April 10 - 2 pm

Friday April 15 - 7:30 pm

Saturday April 16 - 7:30 pm

As is the norm for Bonner and Prendie shows, tickets are $9.50 each in advance/$10 at the door.  Advanced tickets must be picked up prior to the show.  You can call the wonderful Mrs. Rocco at 610-259-0280 for more information.  Or, you could contact me! Either way works!  :)

Musically yours,

Tina

BOX FIVE at Andrea Clearfield's Salon!!

Hello Friends!

Wanted to let you know about a somewhat "exclusive," entirely fantastic event happening this weekend.  Box Five will be back in Philly, performing once again at composer Andrea Clearfield's musical Salon on Sunday evening, March 27th.  I am delighted that Mary Bichner (rockstar and "brainchild" of Box Five) has again asked me to be a part of it.  This will be my third experience performing with Mary and Box Five at the Salon.

Andrea Clearfield's Salon

If you are not familiar with the Salon, a variety of artists will each perform one 10-minute set throughout the course of the evening. My role will be playing clarinet on one piece with Box Five, "Scylla and Charibdys", which happens to be one of my personal favorites!  You can listen to the track (and purchase it if you like it :) here!  The following has been said about the Salon, (taken from Andrea Clearfield's website):

"The Salon, a performance series in the home and modeled after the 19th Century European salons, was founded in September 1986 by composer Andrea Clearfield. Andrea hosted monthly Salons from September through May at her Spruce Street apartment in central Philadelphia, and in 2003 moved into a larger space to accommodate the growing number of audience attending. Unlike the Salons of the past, this Salon was conceived with the idea of integrating different music genres as well as other arts. The Salon features not only classical chamber music and opera, but also jazz, original contemporary compositions, electronic, improvisation, folk, experimental, world music, poetry, dance and multimedia works."

Goli, the awesome cello and marimba duo based out of Boston will be performing as well, and if you haven't heard them before, their talent is extremely impressive, and their sound is unique and beautiful -- a true treat for the ears!

Me with Mary Bichner (Box Five) & Valerie Thompson (Goli) at the Box Five CD Release Party at Tritone, December 2010

More Details:

BOX FIVE @ Andrea Clearfield's Salon
When: Sunday, March 27th @ 7:00pm
Where: [invitation only]*
Cost: $10 suggested donation (all ages)
*Invitation only; please e-mail me if you would like to attend & I will try to get you in! 

In closing, I thought I would leave you with the lyrics to the song I will be performing with Mary.  Enjoy, and I hope to see you at the Salon!

Musically yours,

Tina

Lyrics to "Scylla and Charibdys"

No more distraction, it's full speed ahead 
Though halfway home, I am not there yet 

Far from the harbor we glide through the water 

With nary a sigh 

Carefully I sail along 

Steering clear of your song 

And plaintively you wail away 

Begging me that I stay 

I may be strong, but I'm not made of stone: 

Blame this traversing the sea alone 

Swallow the ocean and crack us wide open 

With nary a sigh 

Shakily I sail along 

Weakening at your song 

And plaintively you wail away 

Begging me that I stay 

(And then I give way) 

Merrily I sail along 

Giving in to your song 

And conqueringly you flail away 
Sinking me so I stay

Pope John Paul II H.S. Presents "Les Miserables"!

Hi Friends & Happy March!

I wanted to let you know about an upcoming production of "Les Miserables" that opens THIS WEEKEND at Pope John Paul II High School in Royersford, PA.  This brand spanking new high school opened in September 2010 as a result of a merger of Kennedy-Kenrick Catholic High School in Norristown, PA, and St. Pius X High School in Pottstown, PA, by the Archdiocese of Philadelphia.  The school is unbelievable with an absolutely gorgeous, state-of-the-art auditorium.

For this show, I am playing the Reed I book in the pit (clarinet, alto sax, and yes, flute) with several of my long time very good musician friends.  Believe it or not, I am getting better at flute, after admittedly not picking it up since the last show :)  Anyway, this is my all-time favorite musical, so I couldn't be happier to be a part of it.  I played for KKCHS for years and was so happy to get the call when the schools merged.  The kids are doing a really nice job, so it's going to be a good production!  If you are interested in seeing the show, I have included the show dates and times below.

Friday March 11 - 7 pm

Saturday March 12 - 7 pm

Sunday March 13 - 5 pm

Thursday March 17 - 7 pm

Friday March 18 - 7 pm

Saturday March 19 - 7 pm

Cast & Crew - Students of PJPII H.S.

Directed by Marusia Griffin Lynn

Musical Director, Eleanor Griffin

Tickets are $10 and if you'd like to reserve them in advance you can call 484-975-6500.  The address for Pope John Paul II High School is 181 Rittenhouse Rd, Royersford PA, 19468.

Hope to see some of you there!

Musically yours,
Tina

"The Amazing Benefits of Music Therapy!!"

Hi Friends!

Sorry it's been so long since my last post... life has been crazy busy.  I hope everyone is enjoying the month of February, specifically some of the warm weather we were blessed with last week.  Hopefully a sign that spring is just around the corner!

Today I wanted to share with you (and give you my take on) an article that was e-mailed to me recently from everyday HEALTH, which discusses some of the health benefits of music (specifically women's health benefits).  The basic gist of the article, "The Amazing Benefits of Music Therapy" (which you can read here) is that listening to music/music therapy can significantly reduce stress, help manage pain... it's also good for your heart as music can help lower blood pressure. There is even discussion about how music can be a helpful tool for women going through labor (nothing that will likely ever apply to me, but interesting to note!)  In essence, music has healing power! The article also emphasizes the increased relaxation and emotional release that music can provide, which I can absolutely relate to, and I'm sure many of you can too.

What Benefits Does Music Provide for Me?

Reading this article got me thinking about all the different ways music enhances my life, and I found that it is a big part of nearly every aspect of my every day!  Music is something I cannot imagine living without, and I truly believe in the emotional and physical health benefits it provides.  When a person tells me he/she really isn't into music, or doesn't like it (what???), I am usually in disbelief... what does that person do when he/she is sad, or happy, or getting ready to go out, or riding in the car... no music, really??  Does not compute!!  Every opportunity that I have to listen to music, I take it!

On weekdays, after my morning dose of Preston & Steve on WMMR, it's all music, all day!  I pop the headphones in for the walk to work, listen to Pandora all day at my desk -- usually either a jazz (Duke Ellington, Miles Davis, John Coltrane, Charlie Parker, Thelonious Monk) or singer-songwriter (Sara Bareilles, Corinne Bailey Rae, Regina Spektor) type station, headphones on the walk home, and then more jazz while I'm cooking "dinner" (read: "soup", "pasta", or "cereal").  At the gym, it's more music -- if I'm doing my own thing it's high-tempo jams on the headphones, or if I'm taking a class there is always music pumping.  Many nights I even fall asleep to music as well (jazz on WRTI).  What can I say, music helps keep me calm throughout the workday, and actually keeps me company in a way when I'm alone -- either at home,  taking a walk by myself, sitting in the park at lunch... it's not just nice to listen to, but it's an outlet, almost in a similar way a friend would be.  I'm sure my upstairs roommate must be extremely tired of hearing certain songs on repeat (and me singing along) when I'm home, but he hasn't complained yet!  :)

Friday nights, I lately have found myself listening to 106.1's "Live at the Coastline" with DJ Frank Cerami, which pumps me up and gets me feeling happy about life at the end of a long week!  I then I ease into my weekends with WXPN's "Sleepy Hollow" program early on Saturday and Sunday mornings -- "quiet sounds" that the website describes as a "blend of jazz, folk, instrumental, and contemporary acoustic music."  The program is ridiculously relaxing, and significantly reduces my stress levels (don't we all need that?)  Late Saturday mornings, I often listen to NPR's "Crossover" program, hosted by Jill Pasternak, the focus of which is typically classical and acoustic-jazz based, which continues my relaxation.  And on Sunday mornings, there is nothing better than enjoying a cup of coffee, windows open, sun shining, while listening to "Breakfast with The Beatles" from 7-9 am on WMGK, followed by "Brunch with The Beatles" from 10am -12pm on WOGL (98.1).  (Yes, I still listen to a RADIO, which is at least 15 years old, if not older.)

What's on my iPod Playlist?

I already mentioned some of my favorites to listen to on Pandora, and some of my preferred radio programs.  So what do I listen to when I pop in the headphones or throw the iPod in the dock?  The answer is, a complete variety of music that spans all genres and generations -- it all depends on my mood!  Sometimes I'm sad, and I want to hear a sad song to help me get through whatever it is I'm going through!  If I need a good cry, you can bet I'm going to put on some Coldplay or whatever song just "gets to me" at that point in time.  But then other times I'm sad, and the last thing I want to hear is any song with lyrics, because let's face it, I'll find a way to relate any lyrics to my current situation.  (Don't tell me you don't know what I'm talking about!)  In those instances, I'll turn on some classical or jazz that is sure to soothe me (except for Dinah Washington -- much as I love her, every single one of her songs has the ability to make me cry these days).  When I feel like getting pumped up, lately it's been anything by Earth Wind & Fire, "Lady" by the Commodores, a few Rihanna jams, and a couple other pop/hip-hop tunes that are completely silly and I love every minute of it!  When I'm feeling "in love" (which is rare - ha!), what is better than listening to a good old-fashioned love song?? (Some of the Dinah Washington songs fit well into this category :) My point here is that music really helps tap into and release different emotions.  It can make you feel good, bad, better, worse, but whatever feeling it is, the point is that the music is helping you feel it, and not only is that something special, but it is healthy!!  So tell me, what's on your playlist??


Can't Forget LIVE Music!

Of course the benefits of enjoying music extends beyond iPod playlists and radio programs -- I try to get out as often as possible to see live music as well!  From the Tuesday night jazz jams at 23rd Street Cafe and Chris' Jazz Cafe to weekend nights seeing live bands -- both original and cover bands -- something about listening to live music is even more powerful.  It gets you to tap your foot, get out of your seat and move your feet, feel the music inside of you... not only is it relaxing, but for me, it really helps to forget about all the stress and BS in life, let loose a little... emotionally disconnect from all the crap and connect to the awesomeness that is the live performers in the room and the music they are producing.  Not only is it emotionally healthy, but getting out to see some live music benefits you physically as well because let's face it, if you're on your feet dancing, you're helping your heart and burning calories!! :)

Musical Performance

The article points out that you don't have to be a musician to appreciate the benefits that music provides, and I suppose this is very true.  However, I would say that I am extra lucky to be a musician myself, because I do see added benefits from that ability. For instance, I can sit down at the piano and play a song that makes me feel good, belt out a sad tune, or even write my own. Talk about a fantastic release!  I am certainly a far cry from a great songwriter, but when I do write a song that really means something to me, the waves of emotions I feel, and the ability to release them through lyrics, music, and sometimes tears... well, that's really some kind of therapy right there!

I also find that I benefit greatly from performing in groups.  Some of my fellow musicians have also become some of my closest friends, and I think they would agree that when performing together, whether it be in a pit orchestra, choir, or ensemble setting of any kind, that feeling of being in sync with the other performers, feeling the same emotions together, "locking in" on certain sections in a song where you have that "wow" moment... it's pretty cool stuff!  It's also just FUN to play in a group, to connect with the other musicians, and candidly it's another way to get away from the "crap" in life -- perhaps comparable to diving into and getting lost in a good book!


Concluding Thoughts

I'm sure I could go on and on about the benefits of music... do all kinds of additional medical research, etc... but I'll spare you that... for now!  I just wanted to share some of my own personal thoughts on it.  I'll let you read the article and come to your own conclusions, and I'd be interested to hear what you think -- feel free to leave your thoughts in the "comments" section, below.  In case you missed the link above, you can read the article that was the inspiration for this blog by clicking here.

Here's to your health -- and to good music!
Tina

Earl Pickens and Family at Kenneth Flash THIS SATURDAY!

Hi All!

Wanted to let you know about yet another live performance coming up that is definitely worth checking out. 

This Saturday night, January 29th, check out Earl Pickens and Family, as they reinterpret the classic U2 album, "The Joshua Tree"! The band, whose genre has been described as "acoustic/alt country/bluegrass," will be performing at Kennett Flash, an all-ages, intimate concert venue located in Kennett Square, PA that features performances by national, regional, and local artists.

Earl Pickens and Family's critically-acclaimed interpretation of The Joshua Tree was the band's debut album release in 2009.  Its sophomore album, "Gathering," released in September 2010, features ten brand new songs by Earl Pickens and Family songwriters Earl Pickens, Bruce W. Derr and Jessie Yamas, and is available on iTunes, Amazon and CD Baby.  Songs from the album are also available on the band's Myspace page.

Earl Pickens and Family Performing Live on the New Jersey Turnpike!

Helen Leicht of WXPN Philadelphia had this to say about the band:
"Stripped of The Edge's in-your-face guitar effects and Bono's dramatic wail, Pickens's version allows U2's rootsy influences to surface and blossom."

You can learn more about the band by visiting its Facebook page.

As for Saturday night's show -- doors open at 7:00 pm and show starts at 8:00 pm.  Tickets are $12 in advance or $15 the day of the show.  Kenneth Flash serves soups, salads, pastries, and flavored coffees and beverages.  It is also a BYOB venue, for those ages 21+ with proper ID.  Note: There is also a $4 per person fee to BYOB.  More details regarding BYOB are available on the venue's website.  

Hope to see you there!
Tina

Philly Big Band Featuring Matt Gallagher at Chris' Jazz Cafe

Hi Friends!

I hope everyone's week is going well so far, despite this crazy weather!

Although today is supposed to be messy out there, tomorrow is supposed to be sunny and above 30 degrees!  That said, assuming the roads are clear, you should have no excuse to miss tomorrow night's performance by the Philly Big Band featuring Matt Gallagher at Chris' Jazz Cafe! And if you live in the city, so long as public transit is running, you really have no excuse! :)

If you haven't heard the Philly Big Band before, you are in for a special treat.  I saw the band perform at Chris' in September of this year for the first time, and I was almost literally blown away by the sound!  They were incredible.  Even Mayor Nutter himself showed up to enjoy the show!!  The band features Matt Gallagher (if you didn't get that from earlier :) who is an absolutely remarkable trumpet player.  Matt also performs in the locally-popular, as well as awesome, club and wedding band, Chico's Vibe.  In all the times I have heard Matt play, I don't think I have ever once heard him crack on a high note.  And he can hit some high notes!  (See below video clip for proof!!)

Matt performing with Chico's Vibe

In addition to Matt being phenomenal on trumpet, the band is comprised of a number of other seriously talented Philadelphia musicians, like Victor North on sax.  If you're into the Philly jazz scene at all, you have likely caught one of his Tuesday night jazz jam sessions at Chris' (more on that in a future post). There are a few videos available on YouTube of the whole big band performing previously at Chris'.

The band will play two sets tomorrow night at Chris', from 7:00 pm - 10:00 pm, and there is a $10 cover, which I believe can be paid at the door or simply added to your bill.  In case you haven't been there before, Chris' does have some yummy food and of course beverages to enjoy throughout the show.

For more details about the show, and to RSVP (this is an open event), visit the event's page on Facebook.  I hope to see lots of familiar faces tomorrow night!

Stay warm and be safe!
Tina

Pepper's Ghost is BACK!

Hi Friends and Happy New Year!

I hope everyone is enjoying 2011 so far. I personally knew it was going to be a good year when I heard Pepper's Ghost was "coming out of hiatus" to play together again... this weekend!

I have been a fan of Pepper's Ghost ("PG") for many years.  Not only did most of the members graduate from my alma mater, good old Springfield High School, and I love supporting local music, but they also are one of the most talented bands I have heard play rock music, local or otherwise.  PG sites influences such as The Beatles, Queen, David Bowie, and the Bee Gees, but they do have a distinctly original sound, and their music has continued to evolve over the years.

PG is playing two shows at The Grape Room this Saturday, January 22, first at 7:30 (doors at 7 pm) and then a second show at 10:30 (doors at 10 pm).  The 7 pm show will feature special guest, Smyth, an indie rock band also based in Philly.  PG puts on an incredible, high-energy live show, so I highly recommend you check it out if you are available on Saturday!

You can purchase tickets in advance for $8 on TicketWeb or $10 at the door.  Tickets purchased for the 10 pm show are good only for that show, not the 7 pm show, and vice versa.  I have heard the venue is small, and that advanced tickets are recommended.

For those of you who don't know anything about the band, I encourage to take a few minutes and read the bio on the band's Reverbnation profile.  You can (and should) also check them out and "Like" them on Facebook.  I have also included a video, below, so you can get a taste of the band performing live.

Pepper's Ghost performing "Everything and Anything" at The Trocadero Theater in July 2006

Here's a little more info about the venue:
The Grape Room
105 Grape Street
Philadelphia, PA 19127
215-930-0321
graperoom@gmail.com
21 years and over

I will be there and hope to see you there too!

Cheers!
Tina

What are you doing New Years, New Years Eve EVE?

Hi Friends!

I hope everyone had a fantastic Christmas and very happy holidays.  Of course, the holidays are not over yet!  There has already been some buzz about this event, but in case you haven't heard, Jump City Jazz Orchestra is going to be bringing down the house at Chris's Jazz Cafe this Thursday night, December 30th, for "Christmas at Chris's with the Jump City Jazz Orchestra"!

Come celebrate the holiday season with JCJO for their 4th annual holiday concert at Chris's, as they present an evening of "swinging holiday tunes!"  The band will feature vocalist Keith Spencer (I hear he does a mean "You're a Mean One, Mr. Grinch") and also this will be the public debut of JCJO's new female vocalist, Jessica Edwards!  

Last week's Philly Metro did a nice story on the upcoming event, "Swinging into the Holidays" that features a nice interview with JCJO's artistic director, Bob Wagner.  Check it out!!

I personally am very much looking forward to this show that is sure to be a fun one, filled with lots of our favorite big band holiday classics.  So come one, come all!  And if you'd like to sit with some cool cats, let me know soon as I will be reserving a table! 

More details below:

  

Christmas at Chris's with Jump City Jazz Orchestra!

Thursday, December 30th
7 p.m. to 10 p.m.
$15 cover (can be added to your bill)

Chris’ Jazz Cafe 

1421 Sansom St.
215-568-3131

Hope to see you there on New Years Eve EVE!!  

~Tina

"It's the Most Wonderful Time of the Year!"

Hi Friends!

I wanted to write a short and sweet entry today to wish everyone a very Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays!  I hope you are all enjoying the holiday season and that you have been listening to some fabulous Christmas tunes to get you in the holiday spirit -- I know I have :)

It really has been a great year, and I would like to take this opportunity to say a sincere "thank you" to all of my friends and family for making it so great.  I met a lot of great people, spent lots of quality time with good friends and family, played lots of music, ran a marathon, laughed a LOT, and cried a little too.  It was a bit of a roller coaster ride at times, but I like to think that if you didn't have tough times you might not appreciate the good times as much.  This past month of December was especially great -- full of many memorable nights performing with the POPS, enjoying some jazz jam sessions, dancing to the oldies, baking lots of cookies, sharing good meals with great friends, and just trying to spend as much time possible with the people I care about most.  I have posted some new pics to the "Photos" page of the blog, capturing some of the moments, so feel free to check 'em out!

Again, thank you all so much for your continued friendship, love, and support.  I couldn't imagine my life without any of you.  I am truly blessed.

Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays to all!  May yours be filled with lots of beautiful music!

Cheers!

Tina

Holiday POPS Performances--NOW Through December 22nd!

Hi Friends!

So, this post is coming just a litttttle late, seeing as how the first Holiday POPS show is, well actually was, um, TODAY.   And you likely missed it.  Sorry about that.  Anyway, it was AWESOME!  So, you should plan on coming to one of the remaining NINE performances.  That's right, there are nine more!  The remaining show dates and times are as follows:

Sun. December 5, 2010 at 3:00pm

Fri. December 10, 2010 at 8:00pm

Sat. December 11, 2010 at 3:00pm

Sun. December 12, 2010 at 8:00pm

Wed. December 15, 2010 at 8:00pm

Sat. December 18, 2010 at 3:00pm

Sun. December 19, 2010 at 8:00pm

Tues. December 21, 2010 at 8:00pm

Wed. December 22, 2010 at 8:00pm

The shows are exactly two and a half hours long, and feature not only the "best orchestra of its kind in the entire cosmos"--the Philly POPS!--but also, the POPS Festival Chorus (that's ME and approximately 120-something other fantastic vocalists!), the Philadelphia Boys Choir, the African Episcopal Church of St. Thomas Gospel Choir, organist Peter R. Conte, and special guest--Broadway star, Rachel York!

This is a fabulous holiday tradition and truly a fun show for the whole family.  If you are interested in tickets, please visit the website, or contact me directly ASAP!

Cheers!

Tina

Box Five Philly Record Release Party - THIS FRIDAY NIGHT!!

Hi Friends,

This is going to be an active week for "blogging," as a lot of exciting things are coming up.

First, I want to let you all know about an event happening this Friday night at Tritone:  Box Five's Philly Record Release Party!

If you aren't already familiar, BOX FIVE is the "brainchild" of Mary Bichner, who describes herself as a "quirky composer and performer."  The following has been said about Mary and Box Five:

"Combining Mozart-inspired chord progressions and bratty Brit-rock hooks into a musical succotash she likes to call classipop, the eccentric yet loveable redhead hopes to breathe new life into the calcified world of 'radio-friendly' contemporary music through her memorable melodies and solid songwriting."

Originally from Philadelphia, Mary currently resides in Boston, but does return for the occasional Box Five show (like this one!!) Box Five is primarily a rock band, featuring Mary of course on keyboard and vocals; however, Mary frequently asks string and woodwind quartets to perform with the band.  That's where I come in, playing clarinet as part of the woodwind quartet for the shows in Philly!  (And sometimes randomly in other places like Brooklyn, NY! ;)

Performing with Box Five at L'etage, July 2009

Anyway, the band is definitely worth checking out, so if you happen to be free this Friday night, please do come out to support the release of Box Five's new album, "Leave the Earth Behind." Goli, another awesome band, will also be performing, along with a band called This Way to the Egress, who I haven't yet seen perform.  The Tritone is located at 1508 South Street, only moments away from where I myself reside, so if anyone is interested in meeting up before or after, get in touch with me!

The doors open at 8:30, there is a $6 cover at the door, and you must be at least 21 years old to attend.

Please do not hesitate to contact me with any questions.  I look forward to seeing lots of familiar faces out at the show!

Musically yours,
Tina

Run a Marathon... Check!

Hi Friends!

I hope everyone enjoyed the holiday weekend!  I know this is a little delayed, but I wanted to take a minute to post a quick entry as a follow-up to my last post about last Sunday's Philadelphia Marathon.

So... I did it!  :)  I successfully completed the race, and ran for all 26.2 miles, only slowing to a trot at each water station.  I was fortunate the start off the race with many of my friends from the South Philly Striders and Fishtown Beer Runners, and to run almost the entire first half with one of the gals from the Striders, Ms. Kristin Harkins, who pushed my pace and was an awesome motivator (thanks, Kristin!!).

Extra special thanks have to go out to Ms. Darcy Borden and Ms. Dawn Mitchell for meeting up with my at Lloyd Hall (just after the half-way point), and running most of the rest of the way with me.  This was obviously the tougher half of the race to get through, and from miles 20-24 or so, trust me when I tell you I was miserable, haha.  I was not wanting to hear the positivity, nor did I feel like responding to anyone who was talking to me at that point, but I am proud to report I did not smack anyone.  :)

Mile 25 was when I came alive again and decided to turn up the heat!  The 4:15 pace person was now again within sight, and I realized at that moment that if I pushed myself I could still pass her, and finish the race in under four hours and 15 minutes.  My initial goal was, aside from just finishing, to finish in 4:30, so I was already on track to beat that goal.... but if I could finish in under 4:15... wow!  So I managed to use whatever energy I had left to actually race the last half-mile or so, blowing past the 4:15 pace person, with the cheers from the crowd carrying me.

Those who say finishing your first marathon is an emotional experience are right.  Not that it takes much for me... haha.  For me, it was the moment that I passed the 4:15 pace person, that I suddenly felt a rush of emotion.  I almost burst into tears (tears of joy, people), but then realized that my chest was tightening up and it was becoming hard to breath -- if I started crying I would likely have an asthma attack, so I managed to reign it in!  

Crossing the finish line was SO AWESOME.  Just the fact that I had just run a marathon, and then looking up at the clock and seeing 4:26:00, and knowing my chip time was much less than that... wow, what a feeling!!

Post-Race Photo with Darcy

I'd also like to thank Ms. Kathy O'Neill for being the "marathon taxi," picking up me and others bright and early to take us to the marathon, and also for creating and posting along Front Street some awesome signs!  Also, special Congratulations go out to Ms. Donna Searer for also completing her first marathon, despite fighting a knee injury!  So awesome!  Finally, thanks to Ms. Melissa Franklin for having Gatorade waiting for me at the finish line!!  

And everyone else who came out and cheered and supported me throughout this journey -- THANK YOU!!!   

Cheers!
Tina

P.S. If you'd like to see more photos from the day, click here.

"More than just a dotted line... More than just a dash"

Hi Friends and Happy Friday!

While I generally like to keep the focus of this blog to all things music-related, as many of you know, I am also a runner.  That said, I wanted to take a quick moment today to let you all know I am proud to be running my very first marathon this weekend -- the Philadelphia Marathon -- and to let you in just a little on my journey to get to this point...

At the beginning of this year, I was running very regularly.  With two half marathons under my belt, and having registered for two half marathons and my third Broad Street Run (a 10-miler) in the spring, I was feeling great about running.  I decided early on in the year that one of my goals for 2010 would be to complete a full marathon.  

Then, I faced a set-back--knee troubles.      

Out of nowhere, I started having knee pain toward the end of my training for the Country Music Half Marathon in Nashville.  I went out and got a knee brace, took a break from running, tried to do what I could to rest the knee.  The knee pain didn't go away entirely, but I was able to complete the race in Nashville in 1:57, achieving my goal of finishing in under 2 hours.  I was in a good deal of pain afterward, though.  After Nashville, I bought new sneakers, kept running with the brace, was trying to take it easy.  I then proceeded to run the Broad Street Run and Odyssey Half Marathon, suffering through some pretty brutal knee pain.  It got to the point that I couldn't even run one mile without being in excruciating pain.  I was at my wit's end at that point, my hopes of ever running again at all, let alone running a full marathon, completely shattered.  

In May, I went to see an orthopedic doctor over at Jefferson Hospital, who gave me the news that the knee pain I was suffering was due to a condition commonly referred to as "Runner's Knee," that it could be corrected with some special stretches done regularly, and that I could continue to run without causing any physical damage to myself.  He even told me that I could still run a marathon this year, if I really wanted to.  I laughed and thought, yeah right!  

After doing the suggested stretches for several weeks, I started running regularly again, even running with a group three days a week, and was feeling good!  I was unbelievably relieved, and thankful.  I still did not think for one moment, however, that I would be running a marathon.  That was until one day this summer, I was having lunch with a friend--someone very special to me and who I admire--and he convinced me that I could, and should, sign up to run the Philadelphia Marathon.  So that very night, I did!  

Since making the commitment, I have trained very hard for three months, along with others in my awesome running group, the South Philly Striders, and I am proud to say that this Sunday, November 21, 2010, I will be running in the Philadelphia Marathon!   

My goal is to finish in 4:30:00, but I will truly be happy just to finish the race.  I will be running with Donna Searer, with whom I've been doing a lot of the training -- this is also her first marathon!  The picture below is from our 20-mile run with some others from the group!  

20-Mile Training Run ("Big Long Fun Run") - October 30, 2010

If you are interested in coming out to the race to cheer us on, here is a map of the race course -- there are also designated cheer zones.  I would be delighted to see any friends and family members who can make it.  The race starts bright and early, at 7 am, on the Ben Franklin Parkway.  I will likely cross the starting line around 7:20 or so.

My journey to get to this point has been a challenging one, with ups and downs, much like anything else in life.  Training for this marathon has only reinforced my beliefs that you can achieve your goals, whatever they are, as long as you have the will and determination to achieve them.  

And with that, I'd like to leave you with the lyrics to a Rush song called "Marathon."  Enjoy, and I hope to see some of you along the race course this Sunday.  Wish me luck!

Tina

"Marathon" by Rush

It's not how fast you can go

The force goes into the flow

If you pick up the beat

You can forget about the heat

More than just survival

More than just a flash

More than just a dotted line

More than just a dash

It's a test of ultimate will

The heartbreak climb uphill

Got to pick up the pace

If you want to stay in the race

More than blind ambition

More than simple greed

More than a finish line

Must feed this burning need 

In the long run...

Chorus

From first to last

The peak is never passed

Something always fires the light that gets in your eyes

One moment's high, and glory rolls on by

Like a streak of lightning

That flashes and fades in the summer sky

Your meters may overload

You can rest at the side of the road

You can miss a stride

But nobody gets a free ride

More than high performance

More than just a spark

More than just the bottom line

Or a lucky shot in the dark

In the long run...

Chorus

You can do a lot in a lifetime

If you don't burn out too fast

You can make the most of the distance

First you need endurance

First you've got to last...

Chorus