This is topic Any musicians on Film-Tech? in forum Film-Yak at Film-Tech Forum ARCHIVE.


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Posted by Dino Panagiotopoulos (Member # 1579) on 07-14-2003, 11:05 PM:
 
We all know everyone on this site has amazing talent for our shared passion but Im curious to know if anyone has any secret talents for music. Do you play an instrument? If so what do you play? Do you sing? Also looking for anyone that plays a "native" instrument of their country.

Im Greek so its only fitting that the love of my life is the bouzouki.



Hope to hear from everyone!
 

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Posted by Aaron Sisemore (Member # 145) on 07-14-2003, 11:37 PM:
 
I play six instruments (in order of fluency):

Piano/Keyboards
Drums
Trombone
Tuba
Guitar
Bass

Me at a talent contest in 1991:



Talent contest in October 1993:



Higher level competetion, Nov 1993:



On drums, December 1994:



Keys are my main axe: Here's what I have in my rig:

Peavey DPMC8 88 key MIDI controller
1966 Hammond H-111 organ
Yamaha DX21
Sequential Six-Trak
Casio CZ-3000
Oberheim XK-1 (61-key MIDI controller)
Roland SC55 module
Ensoniq Mirage rackmount sampler
E-mu Proteus/1 module
Alesis HR-16:B drum machine
Alesis SR-16 drum machine
Alesis MMT-8 hardware sequencer
Alesis DataDisk MIDI storage drive
QuikLok and Ultimate stands

and the computer of course.

My singing sucks, it is best relegated to backing vocals if at all

I also write some stuff as well...

-Aaron
 

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Posted by John Westlund (Member # 913) on 07-14-2003, 11:47 PM:
 
I have played the saxophone for since the 6th grade.
 

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Posted by Rachel Gilardi (Member # 1016) on 07-14-2003, 11:56 PM:
 
I've played the trumpet since 4th grade. Also can play a little keyboard and took drum lessons for 3 years.

I used to sing in the symphony chorus in my area, and made district (top 40 female singers 9th-12th grade in the state) for singing 2 years straight (only tried out in 10th & 11th grades ).
 

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Posted by Andrew Duggan (Member # 1302) on 07-15-2003, 12:57 AM:
 
I play in a slew of local punk bands, playing guitar, bass, or signing. My main instrument is guitar, though. I play an Ibanez Artcore Hollow Body through a Music Man 65 amp and a Crate I-don't-remember-the-model-number fullstack. It's a fantastic sound rig with the right tweaking.

This is a pic of one of my bands, Police Line playing a couple years ago, with me screaming my guts out to a bunch of bored looking teenagers.


and this is a VERY old pic of me (complete with insane dreadlock mohawk!) playing bass in an old punk/thrash band Per Capita. God I was such a cool kid. What the hell happened!?

 

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Posted by Sean McKinnon (Member # 612) on 07-15-2003, 01:17 AM:
 
You were in a band called Per Capita? Thats frieking awesome.
 

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Posted by Joe Redifer (Member # 3) on 07-15-2003, 01:38 AM:
 
I used to be able to play some guitar when I was younger, but am limited to the computer right now. I usually use Reason with a touch of Vocalwriter now and then.
 

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Posted by Michael Schaffer (Member # 1204) on 07-15-2003, 04:38 AM:
 
Guitars are for girls. Real men play the bass.

I am a classically trained double bass player. I have played in chamber groups and symphony orchestras as well as in Jazz bands.
Since my ex-girlfriend came from Greece, I also played some rebetika (that is a Greek music-style). I can also sing a few Greek songs.
I could probably count the string bass as a "native" instrument since the classical music tradition in Germany is very strong and goes back centuries.
This is what my instrument looks like from the player`s point of view.
It is an Austrian bass made in the late 1800s.

 

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Posted by John Lasher (Member # 968) on 07-15-2003, 05:20 AM:
 
Well... right now I actually work at a music store (if you're in the Wilmington, DE area, feel free to visit, the store is at 4707 Kirkwood Highway, I'm usually there on Wednesday)

I play piano/keyboard and drums. I also compose music, [shameless plug] some of which is available here

and if you go to the website now, you cna hear me sing! (Let's Stop Pretending) [/shameless plug]
 

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Posted by William Hooper (Member # 71) on 07-15-2003, 06:10 AM:
 
Piano. I have a 5 1/2 foot upright rosewood Knabe, & a Wurlitzer 200A. I am from back in the day when you had a piano, & everybody was his own roadie.

quote:

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Guitars are for girls. Real men play the bass

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Yah, right. Move a little so I don't drop this piano on you.
 

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Posted by Gordon Bachlund (Member # 124) on 07-15-2003, 08:27 AM:
 
For me it's organ and a little piano. I served as a church organist and choir director for many years until church politics made life into a "martyrdom of pin pricks." Now I tell folks I am a "recovering choir director."
 

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Posted by Michael West (Member # 428) on 07-15-2003, 10:30 AM:
 
on a good day i might be able to play my guitar.
 

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Posted by Gerard S. Cohen (Member # 994) on 07-15-2003, 10:59 AM:
 
Dino,

Thanks for starting a great thread! Your instrument is beautiful. Have you a website where I can go to hear you play it?
I learned to play the viola in a college quartet, but gave it up because I lost part of my hearing in the Service.

If F-T were to form a band or orchestra from the Film-tech
posters' replies, what would you name it?

--Gerard
 

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Posted by Michael Barry (Member # 237) on 07-15-2003, 11:38 AM:
 
I learned the violin for 6 years, but regrettably gave it up when high school work became too much. In retrospect, I wish it was school that I had given up in favour of the violin. Well, not quite, but I wish I hadn't given it up just the same. I keep threatening to take it up again.

I did a bit of singing in high school too but no great shakes there. I can sing in tune but that's about the extent of it. My violin playing showed more promise.

I have had a background in classical music from an early age; my parents were a huge influence. One of the stories that recurs from my childhood is that we had a Revox quarter-inch open reel tape recorder, and I used to thread this up at the age of 3 and listen to an entire recording of Bach's 'St. Matthew Passion' wearing headphones. We also had a recording of 'St. John Passion' and I used to get cross if I threaded this and meant to listen to the other.

Apart from my classical background, I started taking a serious interest in jazz and fusion (only as a listener) since 1992. I am so interested in the musicianship and skill behind this that I attend drum clinics and watch instructional videos even though I don't play.

My favourite drummers in the east-coast jazz tradition are Billy Higgins, Elvin Jones, Roy Haynes, Max Roach, Kenny Washington, Lewis Nash and Art Taylor (amongst many others).

In terms of west-coast/fusion styles, I enjoy Dave Weckl, Chad Wackerman and David Jones.

Guitarists? Grant Green, John Abercrombie and Allan Holdsworth.
 

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Posted by Paul Mayer (Member # 355) on 07-15-2003, 12:19 PM:
 
Piano and oboe, plus sight screaming, arranging, scoring, and conducting studies. Still have a Roland D-50 in the house but haven't played anything in years. Listen mostly to jazz, classical, and Japanese soundtracks.

F-T band name? The Singing Sprockets
 

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Posted by Bob Maar (Member # 763) on 07-15-2003, 12:24 PM:
 
Just so you know....I own a Ukulele and a Guitar. No I don't know how to play either. However after the summer, I am going to start taking lessons on both instruments. I have always been a music lover and I have even written a couple of songs over the years. My Canadian Cousin put the words to music.

So in a couple of years you will be able to see me on the "Ed Sullivan Show"!

What's that?

Oh! He's dead. Too bad.

Guess I won't be on his show then, Huh?

Do we have any members named Ed Sullivan?

Ok! Ok! all ready, Where's Glenn Miller when you need him.
 

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Posted by William Leland III (Member # 1400) on 07-15-2003, 01:42 PM:
 
I have an Ibanez electric guitar. I bought it a pawn shop $120 guitar and amp. I can play CCR - Down on the Corner and the intro to AC/DC - Hells Bells. That is all.

Gerard how about - Missed Timedloops
Cue Tape
 

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Posted by Scott Norwood (Member # 30) on 07-15-2003, 01:43 PM:
 

quote:

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If F-T were to form a band or orchestra from the Film-tech posters' replies, what would you name it?

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Why, it would be "Brad Miller and his Associates," of course!
 

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Posted by Tim Reed (Member # 137) on 07-15-2003, 01:45 PM:
 
No. I don't really play that banjo I'm holding in the picture. I can pick maybe two songs on it, Scruggs-style. Actually, I haven't practiced much after that picture was made, several years ago in Florida.

I sing right tolerably, with an upper baritone placement, and can play a few songs (cheat book 2-handed style) on the piano. I don't read a note of music beyond getting a FACE orientation to learn the notes.
 

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Posted by Harry Robinson (Member # 265) on 07-15-2003, 04:07 PM:
 
Actually this will be doubling some of what went into the “Who the Heck are You?” thread, but here goes.

I spent thirty years in the music business as a utility player. That means my job has been to play all of the random instruments that producers put on the recordings so that the live sound will stay truer to the original. My main instrument has been guitar with strong doubles on five-string banjo, Dobro and mandolin. These days I concentrate mostly on Dobro.


Over the course of my career I toured (chronologically) with the Limelighters, Glen Yarbrough, Dolly Parton, Don Everly, Guy Clark, Lee Greenwood (bandleader for six years), Skip Euing, Pam Tillis and about thirty other short-time gigs.

In 1993 I retired from touring, went to college as artist-in-residence receiving a degree in religion with an emphasis in church music. For the last seven years I have directed a music and arts program at a large United Methodist Church in Franklin Tennessee, heart of the Bible belt. Gordon’s right…the politics are grueling, but after six years of Lee Greenwood Satan himself would be a puppy.

I really enjoy the relationships I have formed through this forum. My film hobby is a great release from the stress of the job. Hell, from the looks of this group we might have to get a jam together at the next Show West.
 

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Posted by Manny Knowles (Member # 1171) on 07-15-2003, 04:40 PM:
 
I sing in a variety of different styles ranging all the way from classical to folk, country, broadway, pop and rock.

Technically, my range is just under three octaves, starting at a very low E and topping out at a high D. However, I don't usually sing in the lowest octave because (1) not much of my repertoire is written down there and (2) output power is always an issue. So, most of the time I'm working with two octaves.
 

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Posted by Gerard S. Cohen (Member # 994) on 07-15-2003, 05:02 PM:
 
WOW--
With all this talent, we might yet reach Carnegie Hall!
Brad hasn't posted in yet, so I don't know his instrument, but he can play the F-T Spritzbottle, or be guest conductor.
Since he created this thread, I'm leaning toward a name that reflects the Bouzouki Boychik and the greatness of our players:
"Dino and His Dinosaurs!"
 

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Posted by Hillary Charles (Member # 769) on 07-15-2003, 05:04 PM:
 
I've been playing the piano since the third grade. My favorite music is ragtime, and besides relaxation, really only play to accompany silent films.
 

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Posted by Michael Schaffer (Member # 1204) on 07-15-2003, 05:26 PM:
 
I have never played in Carnegie Hall, but many times in the Philharmonie in Berlin, which is an even higher temple of music. So that goal has already been achieved, Gerard.
This picture was taken by me after a concert a few weeks before I came to the US:

 

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Posted by Clint Koch (Member # 1179) on 07-15-2003, 05:36 PM:
 
I own two Epiphone Les Paul Juniors, one Stratocaster style Samic electric guitars. One Yamaha electric bass and an upright piano my parents bought back in 1972. My children can read music. One plays clarinet and one piano. I mainly play for relaxation and my musical tastes pretty much runs across the board.
 

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Posted by Bobby Henderson (Member # 840) on 07-15-2003, 10:16 PM:
 
Here's a photo of my setup (crappy flash photo taken for inventory purposes in case the house gets robbed; I couldn't find my "better" photos):



Obviously I like loud things. The stack is a 1986 model Carvin X-100B British style tube head with two 4 X 12 cabinets featuring 100W Celestion speakers. I had the head rebiased to accept Groove Tube type vacuum tubes. The two guitars in the photo are a 1984 Carvin V220 and a 1986 Kramer Stagemaster Custom.
 

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Posted by Dino Panagiotopoulos (Member # 1579) on 07-15-2003, 11:14 PM:
 
Hmmmm Dino and his Dinosaurs? I think that has a clever ring to it! Or how about......The Pitter Platters? I have a few projection related ones in mind. Im curious to hear what other people have in mind.

Thank you for your wonderful comments Gerard. Unfortunately I havent really recorded anything that I could post on a website. There are a few websites that are full of information about the instrument and the styles of music that are played on it. I believe it is one of the most beautiful sounding instruments in the world and the great players treat it with the respect it deserves as Im sure players of other instruments treat theirs. I know Micheal is well aware of its capabilities because he has been exposed to Greek music and the Rembetika (Old Greek blues the early 1900's). Gerard if you are curious I have a few sites that are pretty interesting to look and read about this instrument and other European instruments.
 

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Posted by Andrew Duggan (Member # 1302) on 07-15-2003, 11:21 PM:
 
Christ. Just looking at that Carvin stack makes my ears hurt. I had some pictures floating around of my absurd Crate stack. I should try to dig them up & scan them.

My name for a projectionist band: A low key, pop/emo band called The Geneva Movement.

[ 07-16-2003, 12:26 AM: Message edited by: Andrew Duggan ]
 

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Posted by Gerard S. Cohen (Member # 994) on 07-16-2003, 11:07 PM:
 
Dino,
Somehow your post on Greek music makes me see and long for a wide-mouthed tumbler of ouzo, its yellow-green swirling around blue chunks of cracked ice...

Instruments tend to become beautiful because their players lavish so much love on them that their physical beauty reflects the music they make. Though I live in the city where the Metropolitan Museum of Art has a world-class collection of beautiful and antique instruments spanning their entire history,
I have to confess I've never seen it. Yes, I'd like to explore the sites you know.

Paul's "Singing Sprockets" recalls the sound they make when running shrunken filmstock. (Wasn't there a duo or trio called "Shprockets" on 'Turdy Night Live--weird Tuetonics in black leather?) Another suggestion for our singing group: "The Intermittant Warblers?"

Andrew's "Geneva Movement"--another goody! After all the "Manheim Rocket" made symphonic history.

Harry-- Your beautiful guitar strikes me as unusual--its centerpiece design reminds me of a colonial bedwarmer--but its music must warm the heart!

Gerard
 

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Posted by William Hooper (Member # 71) on 07-17-2003, 02:40 AM:
 
Those are terrible seats, Michael. How much did you pay for your tickets?

At least you weren't in a cheap theatre in front of someone who's always drumming on their seat or something.

Eeyow, Harry's got the chops & props.
 

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Posted by Mike Pennell (Member # 1692) on 07-17-2003, 05:05 AM:
 
I play a sweet air guitar.
 

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Posted by Michael Schaffer (Member # 1204) on 07-17-2003, 05:29 AM:
 

quote:

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Those are terrible seats, Michael. How much did you pay for your tickets?

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The picture was not taken from a seat in the auditorium, but from the stage.
 

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Posted by Sandie Caffelle (Member # 1168) on 07-17-2003, 07:07 AM:
 
What a talented bunch we are!!

I play flute plus alto, tenor and baritone saxophones. I used to play various recorders, but haven't for years now. My favourite instrument is my Baritone sax which was built in 1928. It has a huge bell on it and makes a gorgeous sound. Over the years have played loads of styles of music - I'll play any type if there's money involved!!

(I also sing in a choral society which does about 6 concerts a year to raise money for charity - but that's a bit serious and not so much fun!!)



Sandie

PS; My daughter Anja has just achieved a degree in music - she's a B.Mus (Honours). She attended the Royal Northern School of Music and is going to do a Post-Grad Diploma in performance starting in September. Her main instrument is Bassoon, although she plays Contra-Bassoon, Baroque Bassoon, flute and piano as well.
 

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Posted by Don E. Nelson (Member # 1049) on 07-17-2003, 02:19 PM:
 
.....I play Parker Bros's. Monopoly, a lot, ....does that count?
 

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Posted by Michael Schaffer (Member # 1204) on 07-17-2003, 05:11 PM:
 
Did your daughter study with William Waterhouse in Manchester? A friend of mine studied bassoon with him at the Royal Northern College a few years ago.
 

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Posted by Bruce McGee (Member # 131) on 07-17-2003, 07:06 PM:
 
When I was a kid, thousands of years ago, my folks offered me the chance to learn piano. I wish today that they had pressed the issue a little harder. I didn't learn to play, but I can make basic cords with both hands, and have perfect pitch. Dont have room for a piano in this film equipment-jammed house, but do have a nice old Hammond M-100 that I like to play along with things I hear on TV, radio, or records (remember them?)

If nothing else, can I offer my abilities to engineer the recording sessions when the Brad Miller, and his Platter Scratchers group gets going? I can supply an Ampex AG-440C 2-track!
 

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Posted by Matthew Bailey (Member # 601) on 07-17-2003, 07:15 PM:
 
Me, I'd use a Moog synthesizer like the one Eric Siday used to create the music for the Screen Gems yellow & red logo.
or rig a wooden Native American Indian flute to a Moog synthesizer. Or even take several soundheads ,each wth a variable speed reversible motor but without the picture head
with several lengths of film through them either interlocked,non-interlocked up to allof them & maybe run the outputs of the soundheads into the Moog.
I was reading a music class book at a Goodwill store & it showed someone interlocking a tape loop through five reel to reel recorders.
 

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Posted by Josh Jones (Member # 447) on 07-17-2003, 08:20 PM:
 
I play lefty bass, and have for 2 or 3 years. I wouldnt consider myself real good, but it is fun to play, and combined with my theater sub, does a hell of a job of shaking the upstairs and pissing off the parents

Josh

P.S. If I find a pic I'll post it.
 

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Posted by William Hooper (Member # 71) on 07-18-2003, 12:54 AM:
 

quote:

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The picture was not taken from a seat in the auditorium, but from the stage.

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quote:

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One night playing the bass in front of a crowd of 4,000 my bass began to feedback during a bass guitar solo. No matter what I did it wouldn't stop. So I just took it off my shoulder and swung it around and then smashed it into the stage. Got great ovation.

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quote:

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The people who sold you those seats were taking advantage of you. I don't know for sure, but it may be that they heard your German accent & saw an opportunity to try to take advantage of someone whose first language isn't English.

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Unlikely, since the picture was taken in Berlin (that is in Germany). Actually, I was paid to play there. The light doesn`t blind you, as the stage is lit from above. Also, the stage seats in the Philharmonie are upholstered. The bass stools have adjustable footrests, so you sit very comfortably:

Backstage, there are two cafeterias where you can even smoke! What more can you ask for?

Dave - have you thought about taking up the trumpet or another brass instrument? You don`t need much finger activity there. A friend of mine lost two fingers on one hand, and he started playing the horn where you only need 3 fingers.
 

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Posted by Evans A Criswell (Member # 381) on 07-18-2003, 09:33 AM:
 
I'm one of the few long-haired guys that has no musical talent at all. Everyone always asks me if I play an instrument and when I say no, they tell me I look like someone who would. I just tell them, no, I'm just a guy with really long hair with no musical talent at all.

I remember back in 1998, riding in the car with a friend and I started singing "Mr. Tambourine Man" as horribly as I could. My friend joined me and we sounded like a 2-man drunken quartet. My future attempts to sing when he was around would be greeted with hium yelling "Stop!"

When I was young, I tried to learn to play a guitar, but I never could get past making common chords. Same with piano -- the only way I could play a song on a keyboard was learning a song as a sequence of numbers and playing the keys in sequence like a computer would ("memorizing the song"). But that way, learning one song did not help me learn another, and I couldn't play the chords that went with the notes unless I memorized that as well.

What did the banjo player get on his S.A.T.?
Drool.

How do you know when the stage is level?
The banjo player drools out of both sides of his mouth.

What is the difference between an onion and a banjo?
Nobody cries when you cut up a banjo.

What is the difference between a trampoline and a banjo?
You take your shoes off before jumping on a trampoline.


 

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Posted by Manny Knowles (Member # 1171) on 07-18-2003, 09:50 PM:
 
I've known several talented pianists over the years who could play EITHER classical or pop/rock but only a few could play anything you put before them.

The first time it happened I assumed that the gentleman did not want to play pop/rock songs because he didn't enjoy that type of music. But, as I have said, there are now more than "a few" musicians who can play either one style or the other.

I find this an interesting problem. For instance, I can read and comprehend the sports section of the newspaper despite the fact that I do not follow sports. Just as the laws of language remain consistent regardless of the subject, the laws of music notation apply to more than one style of music.

Obviously, I am missing something. What are the factors at work here?
 

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Posted by Dave Williams (Member # 299) on 07-18-2003, 11:19 PM:
 
I actually tried both trumpet and flugehorn, but sucked badly at both. I was always horrible at brass for some reason, but could kick some ass all over the place.

Also, could not play the guitar, just the Bass. My fingers were always too wide and I could not put my finger on anything less than two strings.

I would love to do vocals, tried it once with a band for one gig, but my vocal cords were so sore afterward that I couldn't speak for a week.

Of course I was singing songs from ACDC, Judas Priest, and Iron Maiden, for a nice small crowd of about 800. It was so loud I don't think that anyone noticed if I sucked or not. Then again, neither did I.

Dave
 

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Posted by Michael Schaffer (Member # 1204) on 07-19-2003, 05:06 AM:
 

quote:

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I find this an interesting problem. For instance, I can read and comprehend the sports section of the newspaper despite the fact that I do not follow sports. Just as the laws of language remain consistent regardless of the subject, the laws of music notation apply to more than one style of music.

Obviously, I am missing something. What are the factors at work here?

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quote:

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I actually tried both trumpet and flugehorn, but sucked badly at both.

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Well, Dave, no wonder....you're supposed to BLOW!
 

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Posted by Kenneth Wuepper (Member # 1174) on 07-19-2003, 03:32 PM:
 
I am into keyboards:

At age 6 my parents got me to study the piano until at age 13 I played the Grieg Piano Concerto for a recital. They then got a Hammond Spinet organ and I was on my way.

After 50+ years as an organ technician and performing theatre organist, I have retired. I still do consulting work in theatres and also consult on organs, mostly pipe organs.

I think we owe it to Brad Miller to include him and call the group something film friendly like...

"BM and the BUZZ trackers" Where we take music to the edge!

KEN

[ 07-20-2003, 06:27 AM: Message edited by: Kenneth Wuepper ]
 

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Posted by Manny Knowles (Member # 1171) on 07-20-2003, 03:42 PM:
 
Michael --

Thanks. It makes sense now. I really related it when you made comparisons to reading words (especially other languages using the Roman alphabet).

I knew I was missing something.
 

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Posted by Michael Harlow (Member # 1353) on 07-20-2003, 05:32 PM:
 
A keyboard and drum player here. I have a Korg M1, Yamaha DX7, Roland D50 and an Ensoniq Mirage. My drum kit is a Tama. with K symbals
 

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Posted by Aaron Sisemore (Member # 145) on 07-20-2003, 07:09 PM:
 


Click Here to hear Pam Inman on lead vocal and myself on everything else (and backing vocal) The file goes with the above pic NOTE: 5.47MB MP3 file

More to come! Enjoy!!

-Aaron
 

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Posted by William Hooper (Member # 71) on 07-22-2003, 03:34 AM:
 

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The light doesn`t blind you, as the stage is lit from above

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quote:

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Also, the stage seats in the Philharmonie are upholstered

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Keep it up, & next time you sit on the wobbly cover over the trap.

Manny wrote:

quote:

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I've known several talented pianists over the years who could play EITHER classical or pop/rock but only a few could play anything you put before them.

The first time it happened I assumed that the gentleman did not want to play pop/rock songs because he didn't enjoy that type of music. But, as I have said, there are now more than "a few" musicians who can play either one style or the other.

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Assuming they both had music written for piano, the only reason would be panic & fear of not producing a performance that would be acceptable to their own standards. You are correct, that outside styles to which musicians become accustomed & prefer, they will frequently refuse to play.

Harry Robinson's a session man; he'll play what ya got.

Musicians who perform in theater orchestras will play what ya got. Most of the guys from the musicians' union will play what ya got, with results reflecting what they usually do best.
 

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Posted by System Notices (Member # 2357) on 06-23-2007, 02:51 AM:
 

It has been 1431 days since the last post.

 

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Posted by John Lasher (Member # 968) on 06-23-2007, 02:51 AM:
 
Shameless plug for my new EP (and my new myspace page).

http://www.myspace.com/johnlashermusic
 

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Posted by Chad M Calpito (Member # 3736) on 06-23-2007, 03:39 AM:
 
Currently, I play the Piano (The Yamaha Grand Piano), a Yamaha Acoustic Guitar, a Yamaha DX-7 Synthesizer and a 3-Deck Organ with Foot Pedels. I also play the U'kelele. Of course, I do sing as well (1st & 2nd Tenor). I've been playing music since 1980. I hope to play the drums someday. I'm toying with the idea of getting Pearl Drums, Ziyldjian (I hope I spelled that right) Cymbals and High Hats.
 

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Posted by Jennifer Pan (Member # 2035) on 06-23-2007, 03:41 AM:
 
You should dedicate a myspace page for every instrument and also get a Yamaha Drum kit to match with all the other Yamaha gear you have. I would give an organ to have Grand Piano... I'm not going to say it would be my organ though.

I play blind with the guitar, drums, and keyboard. No seriously, you did read that sentence correctly.
 

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Posted by Tim Reed (Member # 137) on 06-23-2007, 04:08 PM:
 

quote: John Lasher

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http://www.myspace.com/johnlashermusic

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Not bad, John. My wife LOVES the Bad Guy song!
 

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Posted by Monte L Fullmer (Member # 2797) on 06-23-2007, 04:18 PM:
 
I've been playing the ivorys since I was 8 yrs old. Took two years of music theory in college as Music Ed. major along with other forms of music appreciation studies, conducting and performed in choir ensembles.

Have two portable keyboards (Casios) at home - one being a 73 note keyboard. Plus, church organist for over 12 yrs.

quote:

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and a 3-Deck Organ with Foot Pedals.

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decks...properly called manuals.

Thus, if you are playing a 3 manual organ, it's prob have a good 40 plus stops (Positiv or Choir-Great-Swell manuals) along with the pedal board. Thus, it'd be a III/40 organ - either pipe or electronic.

-Monte
 

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Posted by Dave Williams (Member # 299) on 06-26-2007, 01:43 AM:
 
Funny how things come back up here with just the right timing. My daughter of 11 years has begged me to teach her the drums, and I have obliged her. We began last year with some rudimentary rythm and are ready to move her to her first training set. With her pace so far she will be ready to play with the big boys by the time she hits high school, and that is her goal. Guys like drummer chicks.

Since 2005, I purchase and donate a new drum set each christmas to a young boy or girl that has lost a parent in the previous year. It started when we became a sub for santa sponsor family and the dad had been killed in Iraq. The six year old boy wanted a drum set and I was more than thrilled to oblige. Since then, I work with local charities to find a youngster in the same predicament with the same request.

I put the sets together and give them a nice run through. Now imagining a grown man playing a tot-set is hard enough, but I was able to play it, even though it was a fourth of my size. My wife has insisted that I return to playing again because, well, chicks love drummer guys. I have since began playing and actually do have to tape my sticks to my hands due to the damage done to me by the burns.

I am actually working on a glove/velcro contraption that will allow me to hold on without using any pressure from my hands, but will also allow me to dump a stick after it breaks without losing a beat.

It has been fun getting the skills back, and they didn't stray too far. My little brother started playing the bass recently, and he isn't that half bad. He want's to start a band, and to be honest, I would love it! I haven't performed in years.

Maybe!!!

Ciao
 

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Posted by Gracia L. Babbidge (Member # 582) on 06-27-2007, 10:13 AM:
 
I'm not particularly well trained in any instrument, but can do little bits with a bunch. I can rightfully claim to be able to read music, however, my 'sight reading' is far from spectacular.

My most comfortable instrument is my voice - low alto.

I have some keyboard skills, and can play a little clarinet, alto saxophone, and a tiny bit on an ocarina.

Recently, I've been working on getting better with "auxillary percussion" - djembe, maracas, and tamborine.

On the guitar, I can play just about enough to impress a six year old!
 

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Posted by Mark Gulbrandsen (Member # 72) on 06-27-2007, 02:07 PM:
 
I used to play the "slush pump"(Trombone) in grade school. If I eat enough Corn Beef and Cabbage I can still make music although there is a slight delay.

Mark
 

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Posted by Michael Schaffer (Member # 1204) on 06-28-2007, 07:35 PM:
 
We know, Mark, you often play that song here.
 

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Posted by Tim Reed (Member # 137) on 06-29-2007, 08:35 AM:
 
LOL!
 

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Posted by Don Furr (Member # 1469) on 06-29-2007, 02:02 PM:
 
Not that the picture gives it away but I'm a organist. Started with piano in grammer school and have been playing ever since.
 

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Posted by Damien Taylor (Member # 4255) on 06-29-2007, 09:43 PM:
 
Wicked post count Gracia.

Oh, and Klaus Wunderlich is god. It is my life's purpose to own every KW record.
 

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Posted by Alastair Comrie (Member # 4313) on 07-15-2007, 11:45 PM:
 
In an active band at present. www.myspace.com/laidrive Don't know how many people would be into it on here but hey have a listen.
 

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Posted by Phil Hill (Member # 371) on 07-16-2007, 05:36 AM:
 
The only musical instruments I play now are the radio and CD player...and God save me: vinyl 45's and 33-1/3's on my turntable

I do have a 1982 Strat and a keyboard I'm going to put up on eBay...
 

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Posted by Mike Heenan (Member # 392) on 07-16-2007, 09:00 PM:
 
You dont play the skin flute?
 

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Posted by John Lasher (Member # 968) on 07-22-2007, 11:31 PM:
 
Just a heads up for any FT-ers in the DE area (OMG BFF ) On Wednesday I roll in to stop #3 on my "Open Mic Tour" at Stoney's British Pub on Concord Pike in Wilmington. It will also be the last stop for a couple weeks as I have to head down to Miami to check out a school.
 

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Posted by Brian Michael Weidemann (Member # 2243) on 07-24-2007, 04:19 PM:
 
No nice pictures since reviving this thread? Here are some.

Three out of my eight guitars, and my Korg Triton Le-88.



That one was posted here before, but if it belongs anywhere, it's here. Here's another from the series that wasn't posted.


 

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Posted by Monte L Fullmer (Member # 2797) on 07-24-2007, 09:26 PM:
 
any MOOG Taurus/II's in that setup of yours?
 

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Posted by Brian Michael Weidemann (Member # 2243) on 07-25-2007, 03:41 AM:
 
What, in mine? Nope, sorry.
 

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Posted by Floyd Justin Newton (Member # 1316) on 07-25-2007, 10:21 AM:
 
I play pipe organ as a hobby. Nothing like 'em!

 

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Posted by Will Kutler (Member # 770) on 08-07-2007, 12:59 AM:
 
I have always loved accordion, saloon/honky-tonk piano in the style of JoAnn Castle, banjo and pipe organ.

I started to learn accordion when I was a teen,but there was no-one really teaching in Tucson at that time. Now I have found that there are some major accordion clubs in bothTucson and Phoenix...and amlooking to start learning again.

Always dear to my heart has been the Cleveland/Slovenian style of Polka...its fast, nostalgic and very rhymthmic! Here is a YouTube link to a recent tribute to the great Johnny Vadnal playing his famous "Slap Happy Polka" http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E07GJ2Jmh44&mode=related&search=
 

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Posted by Mark Gulbrandsen (Member # 72) on 08-07-2007, 08:06 AM:
 

quote: Will Kutler

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I started to learn accordion when I was a teen,but there was no-one really teaching in Tucson at that time.

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quote: Mark Gulbrandsen

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The acordian died with Lawrence Welk....

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quote: William T. Parr

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Your not familiar with Tex Mex/Tejano music then.

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quote: Mark Gulbrandsen

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Yes, unfortunately! We have a large hispanic database here in SLC. Why does it sound like polka music? Can't they at least be original?

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I noticed that when I was visiting Houston looking for an apartment. I was thinking "This sounds an awful lot like polka... but I like it a lot."

And back on topic:
I played trumpet up through High School and also have a cheap acoustic guitar I haven't practiced in way too long.
 

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Posted by Mark Gulbrandsen (Member # 72) on 08-07-2007, 12:53 PM:
 
Never cared for Teahano music at all... probably because its forced on us by those mexicans with their car windows down. To me the stuff just sounds lame. And it all pretty much sounds the same....

Mark
 

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Posted by Phil Hill (Member # 371) on 08-07-2007, 05:50 PM:
 
I like Polka music and some Mexican stuff... BUTT! NOT together!
 

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Posted by Richard Hamilton (Member # 321) on 08-07-2007, 06:23 PM:
 
I get to play roadie for my cousins band alot. They're one of the popular bands in this area. When the bands not playing, my cousin plays solo gigs around southern Illinois, always a good time! Check em out!

Rick
 

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Posted by Mark Gulbrandsen (Member # 72) on 08-07-2007, 07:01 PM:
 
So Rochard.... do they play Chinese lock and loll?

Mark
 

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Posted by Will Kutler (Member # 770) on 08-08-2007, 11:55 AM:
 
William hit the nail on the head with his explaniation of Tejano music. When it comes to the Tejano use of accordion, they use very simple instruments in a very limited capacity....watching Tejano musicians will reveal that they really never utilize the bass side of the instrument...

Polkas really fall under three general categories:

There is the German style, noted for its huge use of the Tuba...and when people think of Polka, this is probably the main style that comes to mind. While some of it is ok, it is relatively slow and in my opinion, really drags. But German beer drinking songs can bee quite good.

Then there is the Polish/Chicago Push style...where there are Trumpets out front with Clarinet and the button accordions are usually regulated to excessive bellows-shaking. Once again, there is some really good stuff...and crap. Listning to the radio lately I found that some modern Polish style bands are comming under a large Country influence...and in my opinion, sounds terrible. Noted Polish style band leaders today include that Irish dude from New York, Jimmy Sturr and Chicago's Eddie Blazonczyk.

Then there is my favorite and in my opinion the only style...the Cleveland/Slovenian style. Consists of two accordions out front with banjo, piano, sax, drums and maybe some extra bass. There is a lot of Jazz and Swing incorporated into this style with lots of fast notes and foot stomping change-ups. In comparision to other styles, the Cleveland style really shows off the true versatility of the accordion. Everyone has heard of Frank Yankovic (no relation to Weird Al). Frank was lucky to have even played an instrument. Being a WWII "Battle of the Bulge" veteran, he almost lost both his hands and feet to frostbite. He was a great showman and promoter but a medicore accordionist who surrounded by magnificant talent like the legendary Johnny Pecon and Joey Miskulin. There is some footage of Johnny Pecon and another legend Lou Trebar on You Tubehttp:
//www.youtube.com/watch?v=KFKZWymFyLc
 

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Posted by Mark Gulbrandsen (Member # 72) on 08-08-2007, 04:46 PM:
 

quote: Will Kutler

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they use very simple instruments in a very limited capacity....

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I think many of us here know the REAL explanation for them using "lmiited capacity instruments"... there is something else thats also VERY limited .

quote: Will Kutler

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Then there is the Polish/Chicago Push style...

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quote: Will Kutler

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Then there is my favorite and in my opinion the only style...the Cleveland/Slovenian style.

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I wouldn't travel through Chicago making that known in too many places .

quote: Will Kutler

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who surrounded by magnificant talent like the legendary Johnny Pecon and Joey Miskulin.

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Weren't these the guys that voted to impeach Jerry Seinfeld's dad in that Florida episode?

Mark
 

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Posted by Will Kutler (Member # 770) on 08-08-2007, 08:36 PM:
 
Johnny Pecon passed away in 1975. http://www.clevelandstyle.com/lifetimeachievement/pecon.html

And here is Joe Miskulin's bio
http://www.clevelandstyle.com/lifetimeachievement/miskulin.html
 

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Posted by Mark Gulbrandsen (Member # 72) on 08-08-2007, 09:05 PM:
 
So Will... this stuff orignated in Poland I assume... so what about the Polish Style of Polka?

Mark
 

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Posted by Will Kutler (Member # 770) on 08-12-2007, 01:07 AM:
 
Depending on the version of history the Polka has different meanings in different languages and was origionally of Czech, Bohemian or Polish origion.

You can get a sample of the various samples by listning to www.247PolkaHeaven.com Take a look at the programming schedule.
 

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Posted by System Notices (Member # 2357) on 11-11-2009, 07:01 PM:
 

It has been 822 days since the last post.

 

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Posted by Gordon McLeod (Member # 33) on 11-11-2009, 07:01 PM:
 
I posted this over at facebook but here it is here as well
at the 4 manual 21 rank Wurlitzur that the Toronto Theatre Organ Society owns and has installed at CasaLoma


 

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Posted by Tim Reed (Member # 137) on 11-11-2009, 09:08 PM:
 
Gordon, you never cease to amaze me! You can play that thing?!
 

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Posted by Christos Mitsakis (Member # 143) on 11-12-2009, 10:09 AM:
 
Tim, I always supported the opinion that if you can drive a heavy load truck (as you do), you can handle all the buttons and pedals and play the organ

you can watch me here...
 

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Posted by Frank Angel (Member # 248) on 11-12-2009, 04:40 PM:
 
Damn impressive, Chris...beautifully done! What orchestra is that? Do you tour, have you released any albums?

And Gordie, now you definately need to get us a YouTube of you playing that awesome Mighty Wurlitzer! What theatre? Do you play before movies....finish the set, then run up to the booth to run the show?

Occasionally I would have to give a welcoming talk before a movie or chat with a film-maker on stage, then I would go offstage and climb up the spiral stairs to the grid, across the hang ceiling and into the booth to run the show.

As far as what musical instrument I play....I play the APSI mixing console.
 

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Posted by Ian Parfrey (Member # 5122) on 11-12-2009, 05:10 PM:
 
Gordon fingers his Organ.
 

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Posted by Alan Gouger (Member # 543) on 11-12-2009, 11:32 PM:
 
I play guitar. I love my mac for quick recordings. This guitar is an old beat up thing with buzzing strings but it still plays ok.
spanish riff
 

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Posted by Christos Mitsakis (Member # 143) on 11-13-2009, 08:52 AM:
 
Thank you Frank,
This was a year ago, with the Athens State Symphony Orchestra. I had also two beautiful young female soloists. This is the opening of the program.
As guest conductor (unless you are a top name)you don't tour nor record.

Chris
 

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Posted by Tim Reed (Member # 137) on 11-13-2009, 09:39 AM:
 

quote: Christos Mitsakis

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if you can drive a heavy load truck (as you do), you can handle all the buttons and pedals and play the organ

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Thanks, Christos. WOW, you just floored me with that video!! BRAVO!! I am REALLY impressed! Do you compose as well? If I ever make a feature, it's you and me or it's no one.

I've always had a great admiration and respect for anyone who can play a musical instrument. Try as I might, I've just never been able to do that.

While I certainly "feel" music (I'm not even a bad singer, having received standing O's at karoke ) and I understand some of how it works and is constructed... I've just never had much luck learning how to play an instrument. Over the years, I have seriously tried trumpet, bass guitar, and banjo. I last gave up the banjo because, after over a year of several-times-a-week practice, I made absolutely no progress on it. Oh, I advanced to a certain level in the first month or two, but then plateaued and never got past it.

The only thing I've ever shown any promise with is the piano. I've loved anything with a keyboard since childhood. But that's always been just playing around occasionally and picking out melodies. I've hesitated actually taking piano lessons because I don't want it to turn out like the other instruments have for me -- where I never want to touch one again after I hit that brick wall.

Maybe one day, who knows. But I appreciate your good words of encouragement.
 

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Posted by Gordon McLeod (Member # 33) on 11-13-2009, 05:48 PM:
 
Frank that organ is in toronto's castle Casa Loma
It was originally installed at Sheas Hipadrome in Toronto as a 3/18 when the theatre was demolished it was moved to maple leaf gardens and used for hockey games for several years with a sutom 5 manual plywood console
When removing the organ would allow more seats it was removed and the Toronto THeatre Organ SOciety bought the instrument and made arrangments to install it at the Castle
 

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Posted by John Wilson (Member # 269) on 11-13-2009, 05:52 PM:
 
Hey, Christos

That's very nice indeed. Did you ever play with the concert pianist Elpis Liossatos? She lived near Athens for a while.

Elpis
 

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Posted by Christos Mitsakis (Member # 143) on 11-14-2009, 10:26 AM:
 
Unfortunately John, our paths with Elpis didn't cross. Her playing is very expressive though. When was she here in Athens?

C.
 

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Posted by Gordon McLeod (Member # 33) on 11-15-2009, 12:41 PM:
 
Tim playing the organ is my version of Karoke but on steroids
Tim if you like a keyboard you will like the organ
Isn't there a nice one there in the Roxy you could take for a test drive
If Hope Jones was alive it would probably been him not carlos who invented the synthesier
 

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Posted by Mark Gulbrandsen (Member # 72) on 11-15-2009, 05:25 PM:
 
Great job Christos! I had no idea you did that.
I can testify that Gord can play because I've seen him play the electronic organ he has at home.
Tim... you should continue playing with the buttons on your Semi!
 

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Posted by Louis Bornwasser (Member # 3063) on 11-16-2009, 12:18 PM:
 
I always say I play "the recorder". . . . the tape recorder.

Meanwhile my wife plays professionally and has a Steinway. Louis
 

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Posted by Monte L Fullmer (Member # 2797) on 11-16-2009, 01:22 PM:
 
(Tim definitely needs to get back on his banjo ... )

(I've also posted this on my Facebook page....)



I took this old 1973 HAMMOND "Regent" console, gutted out the broken electronics out of it, added MIDI modules to connect to the manuals and pedal along with the third CASIO keyboard, using "virtual organ" software - mainly Hauptwerk and Miditzer for the sound engines in the computer, and one can have the large organ sound in their own home.
 

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Posted by Gordon McLeod (Member # 33) on 11-16-2009, 06:45 PM:
 
That is a nice conversion you did years ago Ed McCormack did something similar by adding a third manuelthat was a casio synth to his Schrober theatre organ
 

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Posted by Gordon Bachlund (Member # 124) on 01-19-2010, 09:57 PM:
 


Pictured is Gordon McLeod at the console of the Mighty Rodgers electronic in my screening room. He is visiting from the frozen north. Unfortunately Southern California is currently being soaked by rain storms. Better luck next time!
 

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Posted by Tony Bandiera Jr (Member # 2365) on 01-20-2010, 01:37 PM:
 
I have a Hammond BCV tonewheel organ in my garage which is in need of a restoration...no tone cabinet though yet, looking for that Leslie to go with it.

I have played (badly I might add) the Wurlitzer Pipe Organ located at the Old Towne Music Hall in El Segundo, CA. LINKY

A video of the OTMH organ in action.... MUSIC!!
 

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Posted by Gordon McLeod (Member # 33) on 01-26-2010, 11:46 PM:
 
Well the soundsystem is finished and the rodgers now plays with the pedal divison through the theatre sub the reeds and diapasion on the right stage channel and the tibia and strings through the left and the echo through the surrounds
 

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Posted by Dieter Depypere (Member # 3184) on 05-07-2010, 10:22 AM:
 
Well, my musical talent is somewhat limited to composing some songs in FL Studio (software pattern-based synthesizer). Except for an old ordinary flute, I do not own an instrument.
And to be serious: Wii Music does not count
 

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