There are many places you can go that offers specials for your special occassions. Resturants let you eat free, comedy clubs let you and several guests in for free, and even my chiropractor gives me a free adjustment on my birthday. Have you ever heard of any venues giving you free drinks on your special occassions? There are some out there that lets the birthday person drink for free, but I really haven't heard of any for other special occassions. How would you prove it's your anniversary...carry your marriage license with you?
Some people think venues should have drink specials during band performances. Have they thought that they might consider this, but then have a cover charge? Businesses need to make the money to pay the musisicans. That money has to come from somewhere. In leiu of a cover charge they hike the drink prices. Can we think of other ways to help pay the bands that we like to go see? Some bands have tip jars, but I very seldom see anyone putting money in them.
Would talking to your bartender help? It might. If you've been drinking all night, maybe you can talk them into giving you a drink free. I don't think that would work for everyone, though. At inventory time they would be accountable for the missing liqour. They might even lose their job.
Let's work together and see how we can all enjoy our favorite bands without breaking the bank or the bar.
Sunday, April 3, 2011
Monday, March 28, 2011
Sunday, March 27, 2011
Sunday, March 20, 2011
Summer Concert Series
With the coming of summer comes outdoor concerts. These are supported by local businesses, radio stations and local merchants. They offer free or inexpensive music along with food and drinks. It is a time to forget all your troubles and relax or kick up your feet and dance the night away.
In the area we have Heid Music Summer Concert Series presented by Bud Light Lime, Mill Creek and Open Bug Communications. This concert series is every Thursday night from 5:30-8:30PM. The location is Houdini Plaza on the corner of College Avenue and Appleton Street. The concerts will start June 9 and go until August 25.
New this year is Riverbeat Music Along the Fox. This free summer music series will follow the Farmers Market on Saturdays, 12:30-2:30PM, starting June 26- September 11. You can enjoy a variety of bands sponsored by the venues along the Riverfront.
Oshkosh has Waterfest at Riverside Park in the Leach Amphitheater. This year they start Thursday, June 3 and will continue every Thursday night until September 2. Check out their website for discounts and special promotions. They have food and beverages available. This is their 25th anniversary.
Oshkosh also hosts Country USA. Sponsored by Ford and Y100 it is a five day camping fest. This year Country USA will be from Tuesday, June 21- Saturday, June 25.
New this year after fifteen years of pleading there is going to be Rock USA. Their motto is, "Solid Rock. No Limit." Rock USA is three days, Thursday, July 14 through Saturday, July 16.
September 24th of this year is Octoberfest in Appleton. This is also a free day of music. With many artists to listen to. Stroll down the avenue and enjoy a sampling of them all along with food and beverages.
There is a lot of concerts to enjoy in the summer months and sponsored by many businesses. The ones with local musicians are usually free and the ones with nationally known musicians have a fee, but include some of your local bands. It is a good time to get together with friends or to take your kids out to experience live music. After all, they will be the next generation of music lovers.
Wouldn't it be nice if we had that kind of entertainment year round? Couldn't the sponsors find a venue large enough to have concert series during the winter months? Let your sponsors know that this is what we want. We do not want to wait all winter to hear our favorite bands. Thanks for your support.
In the area we have Heid Music Summer Concert Series presented by Bud Light Lime, Mill Creek and Open Bug Communications. This concert series is every Thursday night from 5:30-8:30PM. The location is Houdini Plaza on the corner of College Avenue and Appleton Street. The concerts will start June 9 and go until August 25.
New this year is Riverbeat Music Along the Fox. This free summer music series will follow the Farmers Market on Saturdays, 12:30-2:30PM, starting June 26- September 11. You can enjoy a variety of bands sponsored by the venues along the Riverfront.
Oshkosh has Waterfest at Riverside Park in the Leach Amphitheater. This year they start Thursday, June 3 and will continue every Thursday night until September 2. Check out their website for discounts and special promotions. They have food and beverages available. This is their 25th anniversary.
Oshkosh also hosts Country USA. Sponsored by Ford and Y100 it is a five day camping fest. This year Country USA will be from Tuesday, June 21- Saturday, June 25.
New this year after fifteen years of pleading there is going to be Rock USA. Their motto is, "Solid Rock. No Limit." Rock USA is three days, Thursday, July 14 through Saturday, July 16.
September 24th of this year is Octoberfest in Appleton. This is also a free day of music. With many artists to listen to. Stroll down the avenue and enjoy a sampling of them all along with food and beverages.
There is a lot of concerts to enjoy in the summer months and sponsored by many businesses. The ones with local musicians are usually free and the ones with nationally known musicians have a fee, but include some of your local bands. It is a good time to get together with friends or to take your kids out to experience live music. After all, they will be the next generation of music lovers.
Wouldn't it be nice if we had that kind of entertainment year round? Couldn't the sponsors find a venue large enough to have concert series during the winter months? Let your sponsors know that this is what we want. We do not want to wait all winter to hear our favorite bands. Thanks for your support.
Sunday, March 13, 2011
Our Youth
Thursday night I was sitting in Appleton North High School's auditorium waiting for the " Phantom of the Opera" to start, when it dawned on me that I was forgetting the most important part of supporting live bands. Our children. If it wasn't for music and band classes in our schools we wouldn't have the music we have today.
For those kids who enjoy music in grade school, they go on to join choir and band in middle school. Then for those who really enjoy it, they can go on in high school to join other music groups like orchestra, jazz band and jazz choir and musicals just to name a few. Some of these students want even more experience and take individual lessons and pick up other instruments that aren't offered in school.. Then some of these kids find others who enjoy the same kind of music and start a garage band. Case-in- point, Adam and Nick Liske in last weeks blog.
This has been going on for decades. In the mid-sixties, hundreds of garage bands popped up all over the country. These bands were a raw, simpler form of their inspirations band. Being young they were amateurish, but that is what made them unique and exciting. Most of these bands were only popular locally or regionally and only a few went on nationally.
One of these garage bands was the "Kingsmen". The most popular song of these five guys from Portland, Oregon was "Louie Louie". This song was considered to be the "party anthem of the universe". VH-1 thought it to be the 11th best rock and roll song ever recorded. What an honor considering it was banned from most radio stations when it first came out. The lyrics were considered lewd and inappropriate.
These garage bands lead the way to punk rock and other forms of music. Our new generation of bands will put a spin on the music of today to make what is popular in music tomorrow. The cycle keeps going.
We can help encourage these new budding musicians by going to listen to them from the beginning. Go to the school concerts, both band and choir. Go to these garage bands performances. They might surprise you. You can also help out by donating money or time, if you can teach, to the kids who can't afford private lessons. This is one of the most important way we can support live music in our community.
For those kids who enjoy music in grade school, they go on to join choir and band in middle school. Then for those who really enjoy it, they can go on in high school to join other music groups like orchestra, jazz band and jazz choir and musicals just to name a few. Some of these students want even more experience and take individual lessons and pick up other instruments that aren't offered in school.. Then some of these kids find others who enjoy the same kind of music and start a garage band. Case-in- point, Adam and Nick Liske in last weeks blog.
This has been going on for decades. In the mid-sixties, hundreds of garage bands popped up all over the country. These bands were a raw, simpler form of their inspirations band. Being young they were amateurish, but that is what made them unique and exciting. Most of these bands were only popular locally or regionally and only a few went on nationally.
One of these garage bands was the "Kingsmen". The most popular song of these five guys from Portland, Oregon was "Louie Louie". This song was considered to be the "party anthem of the universe". VH-1 thought it to be the 11th best rock and roll song ever recorded. What an honor considering it was banned from most radio stations when it first came out. The lyrics were considered lewd and inappropriate.
These garage bands lead the way to punk rock and other forms of music. Our new generation of bands will put a spin on the music of today to make what is popular in music tomorrow. The cycle keeps going.
We can help encourage these new budding musicians by going to listen to them from the beginning. Go to the school concerts, both band and choir. Go to these garage bands performances. They might surprise you. You can also help out by donating money or time, if you can teach, to the kids who can't afford private lessons. This is one of the most important way we can support live music in our community.
Sunday, March 6, 2011
The Strawberry Jam Band
For this interview I thought I was going out of my comfort zone. At my age when you think of young musicians, you think of Rap, Heavy Metal or who knows what. . I was in for a pleasant surprse.
The oldest of the four young men is Tyler O. Shea, twenty-five years of age and plays guitar, harmonica, sings, and is a talented songwriter. Tyler started playing guitar at the age of twelve with Bob Dylan and The Allman Brothers as his influences. Tyler has played with grammy nominated Kennny Neal and The Ryders. Two of the songs Tyler has written are The Garden and Rambling Blues.
Next we have Andrew Booher who is twenty and plays drums and does vocals. When I first saw Andy I thought he looked very much like someone I knew. When I asked him how he got started playing drums at the age of thirteen, Andy gave me the biggest of smiles and said, "My Uncle plays with The Dave Steffen Band. My Uncle is cool." Right then I knew who he reminded me of...a younger version of his uncle, Craig Neuser. Andy's other influences are Doug "Cosmo" Clifford the drummer from CCR and Charlie Watts from The Rolling Stones. When asked about his playing style Andy said, "I like to think I play simpler. I don't fill out the music as much. I add to the music, but don't over power it." Along with playing with The Dave Steffen Band, Andy also performed with Michael Murphy and the M.O.B., Darryl St. John and The Ryders.
Andy and Tyler met at a blues festival that Tyler's dad, Tom Shea, puts on yearly. Andy was playing for The Dave Steffen Band and Tyler went up to jam with them. "I gave my number to Andy," said Tyler, "and a couple of years later he called me and we started playing together." While playing with The Ryders, Andy and Tyler opened for Vic Ferrari, Pat McCurdy, The Dave Steffen Band and The Happy Schnapps Combo. After a lengthy stint with The Ryders Andy wanted to form his own band and convinced Tyler to join him. Through Craig Neuser they met our two youngest members, brothers Adam and Nick Liske. They became The Strawberry Jam Band.
Nick Liske is seventeen years old and goes to Appleton East High School. In eighth grade he played the oboe and was given the chance to play bass. Nick said, "What the heck. I'll give it a try." He pretty much taught himself to play with a little help from Russ Reiser from Vic Ferrari and Stringbenders. When asked about his singing Nick replied, "At first I refused to sing, but after some prodding decided to give it a try. I personnaly think my brother is better than me with the songs we do."
The youngest member is Adam Liske. At the young age of fourteen, Adam seems to have an ear for music which allows him to add his own variation to songs. A student at Appleton East High School, Adam started playing guitar about three years ago. "The Beatles are definitely a big part of my musical influences, along with Bob Dylan, The Rolling Stones and Russ Reiser. Russ Reiser gave Adam guitar lessons and evertually voice lessons. "I really was nervous about singing at first. I'm getting more comfortable with it now." commented Adam.
Being under age, Adam and Nick need the support of their parents to be able to play at venues that serve alcohol. Nancy and Scott Liske have been there for them through out their young carreer. Nancy once told me, "I hope my boys realize how lucky they are. To have musicians like Russ (Reisers) and Ron (Kalista) take them under their wings is a privelage."
The Strawberry Jam Band has over one hundred songs to their repretoire and are adding more. With songs from Tom Petty, Van Morrison, Cream, Neil Young and John Fogerty just to name a few, my fear of what I was getting myself into was alleviated. Their musical talent is going to keep them busy for a long time.
You can follow The Strawberry Jam Band on Face book or at http://www.thesjb.com/ .
The oldest of the four young men is Tyler O. Shea, twenty-five years of age and plays guitar, harmonica, sings, and is a talented songwriter. Tyler started playing guitar at the age of twelve with Bob Dylan and The Allman Brothers as his influences. Tyler has played with grammy nominated Kennny Neal and The Ryders. Two of the songs Tyler has written are The Garden and Rambling Blues.
Next we have Andrew Booher who is twenty and plays drums and does vocals. When I first saw Andy I thought he looked very much like someone I knew. When I asked him how he got started playing drums at the age of thirteen, Andy gave me the biggest of smiles and said, "My Uncle plays with The Dave Steffen Band. My Uncle is cool." Right then I knew who he reminded me of...a younger version of his uncle, Craig Neuser. Andy's other influences are Doug "Cosmo" Clifford the drummer from CCR and Charlie Watts from The Rolling Stones. When asked about his playing style Andy said, "I like to think I play simpler. I don't fill out the music as much. I add to the music, but don't over power it." Along with playing with The Dave Steffen Band, Andy also performed with Michael Murphy and the M.O.B., Darryl St. John and The Ryders.
Andy and Tyler met at a blues festival that Tyler's dad, Tom Shea, puts on yearly. Andy was playing for The Dave Steffen Band and Tyler went up to jam with them. "I gave my number to Andy," said Tyler, "and a couple of years later he called me and we started playing together." While playing with The Ryders, Andy and Tyler opened for Vic Ferrari, Pat McCurdy, The Dave Steffen Band and The Happy Schnapps Combo. After a lengthy stint with The Ryders Andy wanted to form his own band and convinced Tyler to join him. Through Craig Neuser they met our two youngest members, brothers Adam and Nick Liske. They became The Strawberry Jam Band.
Nick Liske is seventeen years old and goes to Appleton East High School. In eighth grade he played the oboe and was given the chance to play bass. Nick said, "What the heck. I'll give it a try." He pretty much taught himself to play with a little help from Russ Reiser from Vic Ferrari and Stringbenders. When asked about his singing Nick replied, "At first I refused to sing, but after some prodding decided to give it a try. I personnaly think my brother is better than me with the songs we do."
The youngest member is Adam Liske. At the young age of fourteen, Adam seems to have an ear for music which allows him to add his own variation to songs. A student at Appleton East High School, Adam started playing guitar about three years ago. "The Beatles are definitely a big part of my musical influences, along with Bob Dylan, The Rolling Stones and Russ Reiser. Russ Reiser gave Adam guitar lessons and evertually voice lessons. "I really was nervous about singing at first. I'm getting more comfortable with it now." commented Adam.
Being under age, Adam and Nick need the support of their parents to be able to play at venues that serve alcohol. Nancy and Scott Liske have been there for them through out their young carreer. Nancy once told me, "I hope my boys realize how lucky they are. To have musicians like Russ (Reisers) and Ron (Kalista) take them under their wings is a privelage."
The Strawberry Jam Band has over one hundred songs to their repretoire and are adding more. With songs from Tom Petty, Van Morrison, Cream, Neil Young and John Fogerty just to name a few, my fear of what I was getting myself into was alleviated. Their musical talent is going to keep them busy for a long time.
You can follow The Strawberry Jam Band on Face book or at http://www.thesjb.com/ .
Sunday, February 27, 2011
Queen of Percussion
When you think of percussion, usually images of drums start beating in you mind. The "Queen of Percussion" does not play the drums. Not that she hasn't tried. She just doesn't have the rhythm. Give her a tambourine, some maracas and a cow bell and it is a different story.
Born Loreen Teresa Perkins on June 27, 1957 to Lyle and Audree Perkins, her friends know her as Lori. Lori's mom, in her youth was a female drummer, She paid to have Lori take drum lessons when she was sixteen. After a couple of lessons she was told to give it up. "As far as musical instruments go," they told me, "You have no rhythm. So, don't bother trying to play any." That didn't stop Lori. She picked up her brothers tambourine and found out she did have rhythm after all.
Lori started playing with the Mike Burn's Irish band. Since then she has played as a guest performer with the Dave Steffen Band, Stringbenders, Iggy Rae Vicious and Rat Sass, Donnie Pick, Bobby Evans, Darryl St. John, Jeff Johnson, Gary Marg and Women in Music Minnesota.
The Queen does not just stand on stage and tap the tambourine and shake her maracas. She dances with them. She puts a lot of energy and love into her music. Watching her perform is a show all by itself.
Lori is a very humble person and thanks the Lord every time she can share her gift with fans. She is also very grateful to the musician friends who let her grace their stage.
Lori is on Dave Steffen's Cd, Half a Million Miles. After her name is her initials backwards...PTL...Praise the Lord, which is what she does every day.
Recently, Lori has started playing with a small church band on Saturday nights and Sunday mornings. She has even listened to her friends and is adding vocals to her talents.
When asked what else she is looking forward to she didn't hesitate replying, "I would like to be back in a band on a regular basis and get paid for it." With a smile on her face and a twinkle in her eyes she asked, "Do you know any bands hiring?"
This is another example of a musician who loves what they are doing so much they didn't let any obstacles get in their way. "No rhythm?" Lori torts. "I showed them."
Born Loreen Teresa Perkins on June 27, 1957 to Lyle and Audree Perkins, her friends know her as Lori. Lori's mom, in her youth was a female drummer, She paid to have Lori take drum lessons when she was sixteen. After a couple of lessons she was told to give it up. "As far as musical instruments go," they told me, "You have no rhythm. So, don't bother trying to play any." That didn't stop Lori. She picked up her brothers tambourine and found out she did have rhythm after all.
Lori started playing with the Mike Burn's Irish band. Since then she has played as a guest performer with the Dave Steffen Band, Stringbenders, Iggy Rae Vicious and Rat Sass, Donnie Pick, Bobby Evans, Darryl St. John, Jeff Johnson, Gary Marg and Women in Music Minnesota.
The Queen does not just stand on stage and tap the tambourine and shake her maracas. She dances with them. She puts a lot of energy and love into her music. Watching her perform is a show all by itself.
Lori is a very humble person and thanks the Lord every time she can share her gift with fans. She is also very grateful to the musician friends who let her grace their stage.
Lori is on Dave Steffen's Cd, Half a Million Miles. After her name is her initials backwards...PTL...Praise the Lord, which is what she does every day.
Recently, Lori has started playing with a small church band on Saturday nights and Sunday mornings. She has even listened to her friends and is adding vocals to her talents.
When asked what else she is looking forward to she didn't hesitate replying, "I would like to be back in a band on a regular basis and get paid for it." With a smile on her face and a twinkle in her eyes she asked, "Do you know any bands hiring?"
This is another example of a musician who loves what they are doing so much they didn't let any obstacles get in their way. "No rhythm?" Lori torts. "I showed them."
Sunday, February 20, 2011
Survey
I'm trying to find out how we can get more people to see live bands. Could you please answer the following questions? Please feel free to add any coments.
Age Sex
Income Schooling
Marital status Number of children
Smoker Income
Do you enjoy listening to live music?
Do you prefer karaoke over live music?
D.J.’s over live music?
What is your favorite type of music?
Favorite local band?
How often do you go listen to a live band?
Do you dance?
How do you hear about bands playing in your area?
Should bands have tip jars?
Would you tip a good band if no cover charge?
How important is the light show and big production ?
How do you rate a good cover band?
good musicianship or sounds like the original artist?
Do you prefer a band that plays popular songs in their
genre or original music?
What do you think of American Idol?
Do you think they deserve the notoriety over a musician who
has worked hard all their life to get the fame?
What do you think can be done to get more people out to listen
to live bands?
Thank you for your support.
Age Sex
Income Schooling
Marital status Number of children
Smoker Income
Do you enjoy listening to live music?
Do you prefer karaoke over live music?
D.J.’s over live music?
What is your favorite type of music?
Favorite local band?
How often do you go listen to a live band?
Do you dance?
How do you hear about bands playing in your area?
Should bands have tip jars?
Would you tip a good band if no cover charge?
How important is the light show and big production ?
How do you rate a good cover band?
good musicianship or sounds like the original artist?
Do you prefer a band that plays popular songs in their
genre or original music?
What do you think of American Idol?
Do you think they deserve the notoriety over a musician who
has worked hard all their life to get the fame?
What do you think can be done to get more people out to listen
to live bands?
Thank you for your support.
Sunday, February 13, 2011
Websites
I was trying to find out what bands were playing in the area and, of course, I went on the Internet. I tried some of the businesses that I knew had live entertainment. Here is what I found...
Harmony Cafe
233 E. College Ave. 1660 W. Mason St.
Appleton, WI 54911 Green Bay, WI 54303
920-734-2233 920-569-1593
email: harmonycafe@gwicc.org
www.harmonycafe.org
Facebook
They have a calendar of over 6 years, where you can check and print off their agenda by the week or the month. It is a very thorough listing of their activities and times.
Millcreek
417 W. College Ave.
Appleton, WI 54911
920-738-7408
Email: info@millcreekbar.com
www.millcreekbar.com
They have an event calendar listing dates through May 19,2011.
The Bar
2435 W. Nordale Dr. 825 N. Washburn St. 606 Lime Kiln Rd.
Appleton, WI 54914 Oshkosh, WI 54503 Green Bay, WI 54305
920-954-0888 920-232-3566 920-468-3564
www.meetatthebar.com
Facebook
The website has a calendar of events with only a few bands listed for the next five months. Their Facebook has no schedule.
Cimmeron Bar and Grill
W7170 Hwy. 10 /114
Menasha, WI 54952
920-733-3125
I can not find their website or find them on Facebook or My Space. I did find them on www.witowns.com . You have to click on Products and Services Directory and go under Friday Night Fish Fry. All they say is, "Live music on Fridays and Saturdays. I know Cimmeron has open mic or bands on Wednesday nights but, there is no mention of this.
Plan B
121 W. Wisconsin Ave.
Kaukauna, WI 54130
920-462-4239
Facebook
I could not find a website. They are on Facebook. I also, couldn't find a band or entertainment listing.
Rock Island Cafe
303 N. Commercial St.
Neenah, WI 54956
920-722-0014
Email: contact@rockislandcafe.com
www.rockislandcafe.com
Facebook
Under their events they have live music or open mic. Click on LM to see whose performing. Open mic is every Wednesday 7p.m. - 10p.m. You can sign up to play or just listen to find new local talent.
Tap Haus Grill
121 W. 3rd St.
Kaukauna, WI 54130
920-759-9470
www.taphausgrill.com
Facebook
Tap Haus has four months of music scheduled. Their Facebook has February and past events.
The next two places I found through the Fox Cities' "Saving Cash Magazine". J.J. Maloney's advertises live entertainment Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays. When I checked out their website they were not up to date. They had 2 bands listed for 12/31/2010 and 1/22/2011. I submitted my email address for up-dates but as of this posting I haven't received any.
J.J. Maloney's
N1994
Maloney Rd.
Kaukauna, WI 54130
920-759-9520
www.jjmaloneys.com
Facebook
The next coupon was for Tanners Grill and Bar. According to the Fox Cities' "Saving Cash Magazine", they have music every Tuesday and Thursday. The day I did my research they had two listings for up-coming bands on a Thursday and a Friday. No Tuesday listing. I clicked on 'See All Up-Coming Events' and nothing was listed there. One thing I did like about Tanner's web site is they do include the bands contact information.
Tanners Grill and Bar
730 S. Railroad St.
Kimberly, WI 54136
920-788-7275
www.tannersgrillandbar.com
Facebook
As you can see, some of these web sites you can't get the information you need. Would it help get more people to come listen to the bands if they were up-to-date? How else can these businesses improve their web sites? Contact these businesses and let them know what you think and what you would like them to include in their information.
Harmony Cafe
233 E. College Ave. 1660 W. Mason St.
Appleton, WI 54911 Green Bay, WI 54303
920-734-2233 920-569-1593
email: harmonycafe@gwicc.org
www.harmonycafe.org
They have a calendar of over 6 years, where you can check and print off their agenda by the week or the month. It is a very thorough listing of their activities and times.
Millcreek
417 W. College Ave.
Appleton, WI 54911
920-738-7408
Email: info@millcreekbar.com
www.millcreekbar.com
They have an event calendar listing dates through May 19,2011.
The Bar
2435 W. Nordale Dr. 825 N. Washburn St. 606 Lime Kiln Rd.
Appleton, WI 54914 Oshkosh, WI 54503 Green Bay, WI 54305
920-954-0888 920-232-3566 920-468-3564
www.meetatthebar.com
The website has a calendar of events with only a few bands listed for the next five months. Their Facebook has no schedule.
Cimmeron Bar and Grill
W7170 Hwy. 10 /114
Menasha, WI 54952
920-733-3125
I can not find their website or find them on Facebook or My Space. I did find them on www.witowns.com . You have to click on Products and Services Directory and go under Friday Night Fish Fry. All they say is, "Live music on Fridays and Saturdays. I know Cimmeron has open mic or bands on Wednesday nights but, there is no mention of this.
Plan B
121 W. Wisconsin Ave.
Kaukauna, WI 54130
920-462-4239
I could not find a website. They are on Facebook. I also, couldn't find a band or entertainment listing.
Rock Island Cafe
303 N. Commercial St.
Neenah, WI 54956
920-722-0014
Email: contact@rockislandcafe.com
www.rockislandcafe.com
Under their events they have live music or open mic. Click on LM to see whose performing. Open mic is every Wednesday 7p.m. - 10p.m. You can sign up to play or just listen to find new local talent.
Tap Haus Grill
121 W. 3rd St.
Kaukauna, WI 54130
920-759-9470
www.taphausgrill.com
Tap Haus has four months of music scheduled. Their Facebook has February and past events.
The next two places I found through the Fox Cities' "Saving Cash Magazine". J.J. Maloney's advertises live entertainment Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays. When I checked out their website they were not up to date. They had 2 bands listed for 12/31/2010 and 1/22/2011. I submitted my email address for up-dates but as of this posting I haven't received any.
J.J. Maloney's
N1994
Maloney Rd.
Kaukauna, WI 54130
920-759-9520
www.jjmaloneys.com
The next coupon was for Tanners Grill and Bar. According to the Fox Cities' "Saving Cash Magazine", they have music every Tuesday and Thursday. The day I did my research they had two listings for up-coming bands on a Thursday and a Friday. No Tuesday listing. I clicked on 'See All Up-Coming Events' and nothing was listed there. One thing I did like about Tanner's web site is they do include the bands contact information.
Tanners Grill and Bar
730 S. Railroad St.
Kimberly, WI 54136
920-788-7275
www.tannersgrillandbar.com
As you can see, some of these web sites you can't get the information you need. Would it help get more people to come listen to the bands if they were up-to-date? How else can these businesses improve their web sites? Contact these businesses and let them know what you think and what you would like them to include in their information.
Monday, February 7, 2011
Digging deeper
I've have talked to some musicans this past week and asked them what they think might get more people to listen to live music. They had more questions than answers. I then turned to some fans and to people who really haven't gone out to listen to bands. I've been concentrating on these questions and have decided to write up a survey and see where it takes me. So to those who read my blogs if you have any questions or suggestions please let me know. I'll write up a formal survey and see if and where I can hand them out and go from there.
I have been so passionate about this idea that I haven't written a story for this week. I'll get back on track next week with bars websites and how they promote bands. I'm also have a story brewing on how to get people to hear musicians before they go see them.
So please give me your input and look for my blog next week. Thanks to everyone who is supporting me. Together I know we can make a difference.
I have been so passionate about this idea that I haven't written a story for this week. I'll get back on track next week with bars websites and how they promote bands. I'm also have a story brewing on how to get people to hear musicians before they go see them.
So please give me your input and look for my blog next week. Thanks to everyone who is supporting me. Together I know we can make a difference.
Sunday, February 6, 2011
Way to go, Packers!!!!
Too much partying for the big Packer win. I will post my blog tomorrow night instead.
Sunday, January 30, 2011
Musician: Russ Reiser
What is one of the things Vic Ferrari band and the Stringbenders have in common? Russ Reiser.
Russ was born on February 25, 1956 in New Holstein, Wisconsin to Marge and LeRoy Reiser.
When Russ was young he loved to listen to the music on TV, especially the themes to “Batman”, “Wild, Wild West” and “Get Smart” television series. When talking about his history with music, Russ said, “When the Beatles hit, I wanted to play guitar.”
During the 80’s Russ played with a popular band in Florida called Truc of America. Now, he sings and plays his guitar solo using a midi recorder for his back-up instruments. In November, 1995 a booking agent asked Russ if he could do some weeknight gigs in Appleton, WI. “ I had jammed with Dave Steffen and we played well together, so I asked him if he was interested.” Russ went on to say, “We started out just the two of us and then added Craig (Neuser) and Ron (Kalista). I named it the ‘Stringbenders’.” Russ also plays guitar and sings vocals with the Vic Ferrari band. They do some original music, but mostly covers.
In 2004, Russ released his second cd, “Square Pegs, Round Holes”. It is classic style rock and all of Russ’s original music. “ I played all the guitars, bass and some of the keyboards. All lead vocals and most of the harmony vocals. I used three excellent drummers. My goal with this cd was to express the different emotions and points of view I have and share them with others.”
To this day Russ still likes to listen to the Beatles. In his song ,“Leave It Behind”, you can hear the influence they have on his music. You can find his cd on http://www.cdbaby.com/.
Along with being a great song writer and guitarist, Russ also gives guitar and voice lessons.
To find where to go hear this awesome musician check out: www.russreiser.com (The Russ Reiser Acoustic Show), www.davesteffenband.com/stringbenders.htm. , www.vicferrari.com and find Russ on face book.
Russ was born on February 25, 1956 in New Holstein, Wisconsin to Marge and LeRoy Reiser.
When Russ was young he loved to listen to the music on TV, especially the themes to “Batman”, “Wild, Wild West” and “Get Smart” television series. When talking about his history with music, Russ said, “When the Beatles hit, I wanted to play guitar.”
During the 80’s Russ played with a popular band in Florida called Truc of America. Now, he sings and plays his guitar solo using a midi recorder for his back-up instruments. In November, 1995 a booking agent asked Russ if he could do some weeknight gigs in Appleton, WI. “ I had jammed with Dave Steffen and we played well together, so I asked him if he was interested.” Russ went on to say, “We started out just the two of us and then added Craig (Neuser) and Ron (Kalista). I named it the ‘Stringbenders’.” Russ also plays guitar and sings vocals with the Vic Ferrari band. They do some original music, but mostly covers.
In 2004, Russ released his second cd, “Square Pegs, Round Holes”. It is classic style rock and all of Russ’s original music. “ I played all the guitars, bass and some of the keyboards. All lead vocals and most of the harmony vocals. I used three excellent drummers. My goal with this cd was to express the different emotions and points of view I have and share them with others.”
To this day Russ still likes to listen to the Beatles. In his song ,“Leave It Behind”, you can hear the influence they have on his music. You can find his cd on http://www.cdbaby.com/.
Along with being a great song writer and guitarist, Russ also gives guitar and voice lessons.
To find where to go hear this awesome musician check out: www.russreiser.com (The Russ Reiser Acoustic Show), www.davesteffenband.com/stringbenders.htm. , www.vicferrari.com and find Russ on face book.
Sunday, January 23, 2011
Featured Band Member: Dave Steffen
“ I was born March 4, 1951. A poor black child. You know Steve Martin…’The Jerk’?” That is how Dave Steffen started our interview. Along being a talented guitarist and song writer he has a great sense of humor.
We almost didn’t have this talented musician. If it wasn’t for some deep soul searching at an early age, he would of given up trying to learn to play the guitar. Dave was ten years old when he started lessons.
Looking back, Dave commented,” When I took lessons that first week, I couldn’t believe how hard it was. I could not believe even at ten years old how easy they (the bands) made it look on TV. I could not believe how hard it was to get my fingers to those notes. I got so frustrated that I took my book and threw it around for awhile. I had to make up my mind. I had to gear down and do this. I was bound and determine even at that age to do it. So I went and I practiced like hell.”
Later that week when Dave went to his next lesson they were astounded at what they heard. The instructor was going to tell Dave’s parents that their son just didn’t have it.
Dave went on to say, ”So I basically worked my butt off until my fingers were bleeding, to get that down. To get to that point. So I learned then that it was possible. But, the guitar was much harder than it looks. You have to tell your fingers to do things that they never had to do before.”
Dave has put that same determination to all areas of his music. Playing guitar and singing wasn’t enough. He had to write his own songs. His first hit song was at the tender age of seventeen.
Dave has played in the past with Love Society and Sunblind Lion. Today, Dave plays with the Dave Steffen band with Craig Neuser , bass and vocalist, and Spencer Panosh on the drums. Dave also plays with the Stringbenders with Russ Reiser on guitar and vocals, Ron Kalista on drums and vocals and Craig Neuser on bass and vocals.
When you go see Dave perform you will not only notice his skillful guitar playing and his beautiful song lyrics, you will catch a glimpse of his humor.
We almost didn’t have this talented musician. If it wasn’t for some deep soul searching at an early age, he would of given up trying to learn to play the guitar. Dave was ten years old when he started lessons.
Looking back, Dave commented,” When I took lessons that first week, I couldn’t believe how hard it was. I could not believe even at ten years old how easy they (the bands) made it look on TV. I could not believe how hard it was to get my fingers to those notes. I got so frustrated that I took my book and threw it around for awhile. I had to make up my mind. I had to gear down and do this. I was bound and determine even at that age to do it. So I went and I practiced like hell.”
Later that week when Dave went to his next lesson they were astounded at what they heard. The instructor was going to tell Dave’s parents that their son just didn’t have it.
Dave went on to say, ”So I basically worked my butt off until my fingers were bleeding, to get that down. To get to that point. So I learned then that it was possible. But, the guitar was much harder than it looks. You have to tell your fingers to do things that they never had to do before.”
Dave has put that same determination to all areas of his music. Playing guitar and singing wasn’t enough. He had to write his own songs. His first hit song was at the tender age of seventeen.
Dave has played in the past with Love Society and Sunblind Lion. Today, Dave plays with the Dave Steffen band with Craig Neuser , bass and vocalist, and Spencer Panosh on the drums. Dave also plays with the Stringbenders with Russ Reiser on guitar and vocals, Ron Kalista on drums and vocals and Craig Neuser on bass and vocals.
When you go see Dave perform you will not only notice his skillful guitar playing and his beautiful song lyrics, you will catch a glimpse of his humor.
Sunday, January 16, 2011
Featured bar: Cold Shot
Who would think a little hole-in -the-wall bar would be a great place to listen to live bands? The Cold Shot, located at 633B W. Wisconsin Ave. , Appleton.; corner of Richmond and Wisconsin; is just the place to go.
Run by Sherry and Dave Galow, it is a quiet place to go for good conversation and drink specials. Even on nights that bands play you can enjoy yourself without worrying about it being overly crowded. Hopefully this blog will get more customers into this quaint bar.
Every Tuesday evening the Hair Band, consisting of Bobby Evans on guitar and vocals and Dave Galow on drums, invite guest musicians to join them. This past Tuesday they had Jon Wheelock from Blues Talk. From Kaukauna, Jon plays bass and sings. Along with being a great musician Jon is a talented song writer.
Bobby Evans enjoys jamming’ with other musicians. Bobby told me,” The Hair Band has hosted fellow musicians: Jeff Johnson, Mojo Perry, Dave Steffen, Curt Calder, Scotty Meyer, Jon Wheelock, Greg Koch, Doug Kroening, and Donnie Pick.( I apologize, if I missed anyone.)”
When I asked Sherry Galow, why they supported live music, she commented, ”I really haven’t thought about it.” After a few seconds she added, “There is a lot of young talent and so many types of music out there. If we don’t have them play here, no one is going to know about them.”
Even though times are tough and paying for the bands are hard, Dave and Sherry continue to hire them without charging a cover charge. “If we can’t afford to pay the Hair Band, Dave will go without his cut.” says Sherry. “That is how much we enjoy having them here.”
Besides the Hair Band on Tuesdays, the Cold Shot has karaoke on Wednesdays nights and The Hott Saxxx Ensemble every Thursday night. Up coming guests with the Hair Band include Scotty Meyer on January 18 and Donnie Pick on the 25th. Clovis Mann is also performing on Friday, January 21.
You can find the Cold Shot on Facebook. Come check out this little hole-in-the-wall bar and help support live music.
Sunday, January 9, 2011
Welcome
Support Live Music
In this world of technology, where you can listen to music anywhere and at anytime, seeing a live performance is a dying art form. We can download any type of music we want at a touch of a button. We live in a world of instant gratification. Are we really enjoying the full benefits that musicians can give us?I don’t believe we do. In the last couple of years I have gotten back into listening to live bands. I don’t consider myself a groupie…like back in the day, before hubby and kids…but I really enjoy watching musicians sing and play their instruments. Wisconsin has some real talented musicians and after watching them perform and witnessing their interactions to the audience, I began to wonder, “Why do they call it, ‘playing the guitar’?” When you watch these guys’ fingers, it is far from playing. The skill that goes into it doesn’t come from just picking up the guitar. It takes hours, no, it takes years to make the strings sing their notes. When you first start playing you get blisters on your fingers and if you can get past that they turn to calluses. Those with true love of playing keep practicing and can make their guitars truly sing.
Then you have guitarists like Dave Steffen, who can play with his teeth and not miss a beat and Bobby Evans who uses a small beer bottle as a slide on his guitar. They take their musical talents to new heights.
What do musicians get in return for sharing their talents with us? Yes, they do get a paycheck, but like the rest of us that does a job well done, they need positive feedback. For performers it’s as simple as an applause and in my opinion I don’t believe they get enough.
I encourage everyone, if even just once a month, to go see a local band perform. Look forward to the anticipation of seeing them. Watch them closely and see the skill they put into their music. Don’t forget to applaud and during break or after the evening is over go up to them and let them know they are appreciated. I bet you will reconsider the merits of instant gratification and realize that it has its drawbacks.
Join me next week and I will give a review of a band and an insider tidbit about one of its members.
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