So after over a year of writing and revising, the blues opera, Steel Guitar, will have it's first public performance July 2nd at Headwaters gallery in Ashland. Steel Guitar is a story connecting 22 original songs in an hour and forty five minute long performance with an intermission in the middle. I often write songs from the viewpoint of someone other than myself and I thought why not tie all these characters together with a story. The connecting element is the guitar, as it changes hands. I have often thought about vintage instruments I have played and wondered at their history and if all those who had played them before me had colored their sound in some way. There is a multi-generational love story too, what's blues without love loss, and conflict. The music I think is the best part, I roughly included musical styles that showcased elements of blues roots and development of different styles, and of course these tunes I hope to play often so I made sure they were all arrangements I enjoyed. I've had folk tell me that as much as they liked the music they were waiting anxiously for the story to continue. I hope I have scored a hit with both the music and the story, please check the sample video below, and I hope to see you soon at a show.
Many thanks,
Pete
Open tuning workshop - December 24, 2009
I had a great time at the open tuning/slide guitar workshop. I had about 15 folk show up at Tom's guitar studio, with varying amounts of experience. After an hour or so they were all able to play in several different tunings, several different keys and were familiar with the 1-4-5 terminology for describing 12 bar blues. We actually played several songs and I think it was a good introduction. The basics of playing in open tuning can be learned in a short while, of course it can take a lifetime to master, that's what I think makes it fun and keeps it challenging.
Aloha - December 11, 2009
I probably don't utilize this feature often enough, I am currently gearing up for a trip to the Big Island of Hawaii, booking shows and looking forward to meeting lots of new musicians. Playing with other folks always gives me a fresh perspective and a surge of creativity. Of course being in a tropical paradise doesn't hurt especially when the temps here at home have been in the single digits,
CD's are now on CDbaby - September 5, 2008
Hi, CD's are now available on CD baby. Looking forward to the CD release party .
CD release concert - August 17, 2008
Saturday, Sept 6th, from 4 until late
CD release party, at the Rogue river Lodge. 2 1/2 miles north of Shady Cove Another Anthem opening with an acoustic set. Pete will be playing tunes off his new CD, homestyle
The new CD will be played from 4 PM till after 5, Another Anthem will play an acoustic set. Pete will take the stage at 6 and play many of the tunes from his new CD and some old blues/roots standards
This an all ages event, food and beverages are available.
Cost is free
