April is only half over, and it has been a whirlwind! This month is jam packed with shows and travel and step up day is just over the horizon…


Boomer Music at UW Percussion and Brass Festival!

Thank you to the University of Wyoming and Dr. Andrew Wheelock for having us display at the Percussion and Brass Festival! It was great to get to meet so many advancing musicians and hear some great performances.

#BoomerMusic #UniversityOfWyoming #UWPercussion&Brass2024

https://www.facebook.com/BoomerMusic1976/posts/pfbid02iMoyHRS4ozGopptQEyFmHDAZ8mZTuDpwq7fqrahi32LQFX35VV4A4tXb17cfTbrWl



*AND*

Store Construction Update!

It’s been a while since we updated the progress of the construction at the store, so it is time to check in. The news is good! The new flooring is (almost) finished and we are reopening this week. Check out the video to see how far we’ve come!

Thank you to everyone who has supported us as we recover from January’s unfortunate setback.

#BoomerMusic #DisasterRecovery #RebuildBetter #Construction #Progress

https://youtu.be/lQbQRxtEsN0


*ALSO*

A Practical Guide for Recruitment and Retention

A Practical Guide for Recruitment and Retention brought to you by the Music Achievement Council is the most complete manual on recruiting and retention for beginning instrumental music, compiled from ideas and practices of music teachers, music dealers and the music products industry.

Recruiting for beginning instrumental music is a year-round job. Although the director’s task may be challenging, there is a great deal and variety of help available.

This booklet describes recruiting methods being used successfully today by directors in schools throughout the country. Some methods differ widely, but all are techniques that have been tested in action and are proven to work. The content here reflects the combined experience of successful educators and school music dealers. That is why this is a practical guide to recruiting and retention for veteran teachers, beginning teachers and future teachers.

https://www.facebook.com/BoomerMusic1976/posts/pfbid0gHF4hfTwV6BcXajrT3MKXNU3Z5XnoY762RJ6ohEUjcwQn7kS8nwPGTG3iCsMGWHHl

*FINALLY*

Excerpted from “Life would be perfect if I never learned to play an instrument!”* as published on The Podcasting Store’s Medium Page

“There is a misconception that making music requires an innate talent without which success is impossible. While talent is helpful, the ability to play a musical instrument is actually a skill.

What’s the difference between a skill and a talent?

A skill is learned proficiency to perform a certain task while a talent is the innate ability to do something. The ability to play a musical instrument is a skill that is developed over time through practice. Talent can accelerate this learning, but it is not a substitute for putting in the effort.

This is great news!

What this means is that anyone, regardless of talent, can learn to make music through dedication and effort. I’ve been asked more times than I can count “What’s the easiest instrument?” I always answer the same way: “They’re all hard if you don’t practice.” Talent is useful; skills are essential.

Now you may be thinking that it’s unlikely your child will pursue a career in music performance. You’re absolutely right! The chances of becoming a rock star or major symphony orchestra musician are quite small, but that’s just scratching the surface of what is possible…”
https://thepodcastingstore.medium.com/life-would-be-perfect-if-i-never-learned-to-play-an-instrument-88650f31db5c

Read more essays like this:
https://medium.com/@thepodcastingstore

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This week Drew got out of town for a conference in his one-time home of Southwest Florida. It was a good chance to catch up with colleagues and reconnect with the past.


Xylophone vs. Glockenspiel

What is the difference between a xylophone and a glockenspiel? The answer can be found in the roots of the words. Does it really matter? Watch the video and decide!

#MusicForLittles #ItsNotAXylophone #Language #BoomerMusic

https://www.facebook.com/BoomerMusic1976/posts/pfbid02vuUQZSqQ9CN8sUXxtzBFvu7v2gsUutwy1xuwSaHrr9bnCQFoQu3i7nEQxR3psbAyl



*AND*

All About the 3 R’s. It’s the View from the Road

It’s that time of year when we are all about the 3 R’s – Recruit, Repair, Repeat! Instrument tryouts are still happening, so if you’re signed up but have a friend who isn’t, get them on board! Summer repairs are starting as well, so if you have instruments not currently in use that will need to be serviced, send it on in! Fall will be here before you know it and we want kids to have the best chance of success.

#BoomerMusic #ViewFromTheRoad #3Rs #Recruit #Repair

https://youtu.be/ZRs7ldL9oRo


*ALSO*

Reverie Drums Stacker Hats Stack Ring

Cool things to hit! Here are the 8" and 10" Stacker Hats from Reverie Drums line of Stack Ring percussion items. Timothy Roberts has yet again given us an affordable and cool sound option for those looking to expand their sound palette. Small yet full of sound and uses, the Stacker Hats are a cool addition to your set up. No, you can't actually use a hi hat clutch with them which I was a little bummed about. Never mind my clam. Have fun!

#reveriedrums #reveriedrumsstackring #stackringpercussion #stackring #stackerhats #clapstack #playingdrums #drumset #drumswestdrumshop #percussion #cymbals #coolpercussion #drumeffects #peterknudsondrums #uniquepercussion #drumsetup

https://youtube.com/shorts/yNkT-PdDG4k


*FINALLY*

Excerpted from “The Legendary Song Inspired by a Chance Encounter”, a Musical Mystery as published on The Podcasting Store’s Medium Page

“Antonio and Vinicius were stuck.

They had success collaborating on music for the film Black Orpheus, an updated version of the classic Greek legend of Orpheus and Eurydice and were working on a new project. Instead of the dark tone of a story set in the underworld they wanted to do something fun and lighthearted.

Vinicius had the idea of a comedy he titled Blimp, which was the story of a Martian who finds himself in Rio de Janeiro during the height of Carnival. The concept was simple, but he was at a loss for an idea to set to music for a song in this new movie. What would impress an alien on their first visit to Earth?

He and Antonio pondered this question over Brahma beers at the Veloso Bar. The libations were good and with the beach just a block away the girl-watching opportunities were plentiful. As their bottles emptied inspiration walked by.

Heloisa was tall and tan teenager, with emerald eyes and dark flowing hair. She lived nearby and would pass the bar on her way to school or the beach, usually drawing stares and wolf whistles…”

https://medium.com/@thepodcastingstore/the-legendary-song-inspired-by-a-chance-encounter-a-musical-mystery-958e252d482e

Read more essays like this:
https://medium.com/@thepodcastingstore

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Happy Opening Day! The start of the baseball season means that the dreary darkness of winter is behind us, and sweet sunny days are here! Even if your team is not a contender, enjoy the ride!


The Real Book – 99 Percent Invisible

For five decades every jazz musician has owned a copy of the same book. In it are hundreds of jazz standards, transcribed by ear and handwritten into one volume. It’s called The Real Book and, until the early 2000’s, it was completely illegal. But how did it come to be, who created it, and what are the unintended consequences of committing a living art form to paper?

Roman Mars explores these topics and more on his excellent podcase 99 Percent Invisible as he delves into the shrouded mystery of this ubiquitous tome.

#99PercentInvisible #RomanMars #RealBook #Music #Jazz

https://youtu.be/WKKKP6WJkJo?si=e7dlLBZlK0Cy_k4K



*AND*

Overcoming ‘Sposed To. It’s the View from the Road

We’re back from Spring Break and into them thick of instrument tryouts. One thing that occurred to Drew is the concept of ‘sposed to – when we do (or don’t do) things because we thinks that’s how it is supposed to go. Music does not have to be like that! Switching instruments, ensembles, etc. is always a possibility. If you’re on the fence about joining band, orchestra, or choir because of how it’s ‘sposed to be, drop the preconceived notions and sign up!

#BoomerMusic #ViewFromTheRoad #NewMusicians #SposedTo #Adapt

https://youtu.be/MkJbeb8Nrcc


*ALSO*

Reverie Drums Sizzle Stick Stack Ring
Here is the Sizzle Stick made by Reverie Drums from their Stack Ring line of percussion items. Very simple design: copper beads on 2 metal cords. Attaches via a loop so it's super easy and quick to put on and take off. It used to be 2 different lengths but now it is one size fits most. I like this because it doesn't flop all over like the Pro Mark Rattler or Sizzler. The metal cord keeps it neat and tidy and won't get in your way. Check it out!

#reveriedrums #stackring #reveriedrumsstackring #stackringpercussion #cymbalsizzle #sizzlecymbals #cymbals #cymbaleffects #playingdrums #coolpercussion #playingdrums #percussion #cymbalstuff #drumminglife #drummers #drumswestdrumshop

https://youtube.com/shorts/OTNCTjalGxc




*FINALLY*

Excerpted from “The Three Songs I Play Every Opening Day”, as published on The Podcasting Store’s Medium Page

“…Over the years I have created a tradition. Every Opening Day of the Major League Baseball season I play three songs that are near and dear to the hearts of all Red Sox fans. Each has a different meaning but no matter where I am that day they all transport me to a different time and place.

The first is Tessie by the Dropkick Murphys…

…Every time I hear this song, I’m transported back to 2004. Like the 1903 Americans, the Red Sox were in the playoffs and facing elimination but did not give up and somehow found a way to win. They staged the greatest comeback in baseball history, breaking the 86-year-old Curse of the Bambino. When I hear the Murphys’ bagpipes wail and piano thump I remember how that team persisted and accomplished something no one had ever done before.

The next song is Neil Diamond’s Sweet Caroline.

When this song plays, I’m instantly in Fenway Park. No specific game, but it’s the middle of the eighth inning, and the Red Sox will soon bat. The words to the song are on the scoreboard, but the sold-out stadium does not need them. The crowd sings with reckless abandon, swaying as one, belting out the iconic “Bah! Bah! Bah!” with childlike enthusiasm. Neither the score nor the opposing team matter. In my mind I’m at the game with my dad, taking time to just be in the moment…”

https://thepodcastingstore.medium.com/the-three-songs-i-play-every-opening-day-d25419e2938a
Read more essays like this:
https://medium.com/@thepodcastingstore

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We’re back from Spring Break and what a break it was! Hitting the road and seeing some new parts of this amazing country was just what the doctor ordered. Now back to tryout nights and recruiting the next crop of lifelong musicians!


The Boston Typewriter Orchestra

There’s something special about using found instruments to create music no one had ever imagined possible. The Boston Typewriter Orchestra does just that in their 2024 Tiny Desk Concert submission titled “Selectric Funeral”. Whether it is using the keys, bells, or even the rubber feet, the ingenuity of this ensemble in pushing the limits of their chosen instrument is amazing!

#BostonTypewriterOrchestra #Typewriter #FoundInstruments #TinyDeskConcert

https://youtu.be/YsN_PRrXcwU?si=mMa8uctxt1hgaaq1


*AND*

Yamaha Drums and Hardware at Amazing Prices!

We're having a Yamaha drum set and hardware sale! Prices are too low to advertise, which sounds cheesy but it's true. Come on in or contact us by phone or email!

#Yamaha #YamahaPercussion #DrumsWest #DrumDeals #DrumSteals
https://www.facebook.com/BoomerMusic1976/posts/pfbid0gCCvbj4RYrN24NT4umQSLerXLBf7ob5qCEtkf1SgM4ennmEQA8txjCbEAQfchKnSl


*ALSO*

Reverie Drums 8" Crunch Ring Stack Ring

Pretty cool! This is the 8" Crunch Ring from Reverie Drums line of Stack Ring percussion items. Versatile and lightweight, it's any easy way to give cymbals some stank without having to unscrew or twist wingnuts on and off. Throw it on a drum for some cool effects or go ahead and smack it because it's made from steel. Enjoy!

#drumswestdrumshop #stackring #cymbals #reveriedrums #crunchring #drumset #coolpercussion #cymbaleffects #playingdrums #peterknudsondrums
https://youtube.com/shorts/3bxzuCEjbNg?feature=share



*FINALLY*

Excerpted from “The Composer Who is Remembered for What He Did Not Write”, A Musical Mystery by Drew Holmes as published on The Podcasting Store’s Medium Page

“Some people are born to greatness and others have it thrust upon them. A third, less common group are those who are greatness-adjacent and are remembered not for who they were but who they were not.

Franz falls solidly into this category.

Scant details of his life exist apart from his association with a legendary composer, but we do know his mother died when he was just six years old. His father was a teacher and choirmaster and the lessons he received in singing, violin, and organ laid the foundation for the remainder of Franz’s short life…

…When he died at age 37, Franz had a successful if unremarkable career. Unremarkable but for the association with his famous friend, without which his life may have been omitted from the pages of history altogether…”

https://thepodcastingstore.medium.com/the-composer-who-is-remembered-for-what-he-did-not-write-718832e07200

Read more essays like this:
https://medium.com/@thepodcastingstore

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It’s the one day of the year that everyone is Irish! Have a fun (and safe) time, however you choose to celebrate.

Extracting Audio the Easy Way

Daniel Batal is at it again with another great time saving tip. Do you need just the audio from a video clip? Rather than add it to the media pool, unlink the audio and video, and delete the video, there is a much easier method. You've done it the long way, now do it the short way!

#DanielBatal #DaVinciResolve #ExtractingAudio #WorkFlow

https://youtu.be/2nm9FnHpkkM?si=_aPbzUYsLAHpVO12


*AND*

Motive, Means, and Opportunity. It’s The View from the Road.

This week Drew reflects on the importance of motivation when beginning to make music and how important creating that is at tryout nights. When we properly demonstrate the value of music making and how attainable it is, we can start a beginner down the road to a lifelong love of music.

#ViewFromTheRoad #BoomerMusic #MusicEducation #LifetimeActivity #Motivation #Inspiration
https://youtu.be/o-x9rXT21Wk


*ALSO*

Reverie Drums Stack Ring K Stack

The K Stack from Reverie Drums Stack Ring line of percussion is a great way to add some effects without adding bulk. I am demonstrating the Original and the Dry Stacks. Each have wingnuts that adjust the length of tone which is cool. They also have a groove on the back which hooks into a hoop or you can mount it on a woodblock-style mount via 2 holes. Get it! Please subscribe if you like it!

#drumset #reveriedrums #kstack #stackring #cymbals #clapstack #cymbaleffects #coolpercussion #cymbalstack #playingdrums #drumming #drumswestdrumshop #peterknudsondrums
https://youtube.com/shorts/5qKPv1fLu48



*FINALLY*

Excerpted from “Asking the Right Question Changed the Stars I was Reaching For” an Essay Rewind as published on The Podcasting Store’s Medium page March 2, 2023.
“…the previous year I had taken an astronomy course which had opened my eyes to a literal universe to explore. In speaking with the astronomy professor, we laid out a plan that would allow me to graduate on time with a degree in physics, the only subject available that would eventually lead to astronomy.
Armed with that knowledge, I had chosen a slate of classes filled with calculus, physics lecture, and lab. Most students would have started this as a freshman, so I was already a year behind. Fortunately, I was strong in math and had some AP credits, so while catching up would be cumbersome, it was not impossible.
Those AP credits were partially to blame for my current predicament, as they put me over the threshold of needing to declare a major despite only being in my second year on campus. My assigned adviser was chair of the music department, so I declared a major in music as a placeholder knowing I would change it eventually. When I had found physics, my path was clear.
But it was more difficult than I had imagined. I found joy in the stars but not in the esoteric classes and tedious labs of unapplied science. Finishing my lunch, I dreaded the trudge across campus to attend another physics lab. Why was I doing this? Should I make a change?…”

https://thepodcastingstore.medium.com/asking-the-right-question-changed-the-stars-i-was-reaching-for-1083e44bf17b

Read more essays like this:
https://medium.com/@thepodcastingstore

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Music making is a lifetime activity, this is known. But the crucial foundation for loving music is built early on. Whether it is equipment, education, or encouragement, there are ample resources to begin this journey or take the next step.


Bringing Music to Life – It’s the Instrument Drive!

It’s March and that means the annual Bringing Music to Life Instrument Drive is in full swing! If you have an instrument that has sat silent for far too long, please consider donating it even if it needs repair. It will receive proper reconditioning and be given to a student in need. Don’t have an instrument but still want to help? Donations to the repair fund are always welcome (and needed!).

#BringingMusicToLife #InstrumentDrive #MusicEducation #SchoolMusic

https://www.facebook.com/BoomerMusic1976/posts/pfbid02hZvQBTF2ZFWYndrJy9avEHueZ4zv49apTh4wAz8wzm2jv7njDN5wTLU2mA939iCQl


*AND*

Mozart was Touring Europe by this Age! It’s The View from the Road.

We’re well into tryout night season and Drew has a complaint: we wait too long to start kids in music! Typically, we wait until 6th grade, which causes conflicts with sports and other activities. Music is an activity for a lifetime, and that includes the early years as well as the later ones.

#ViewFromTheRoad #BoomerMusic #MusicEducation #LifetimeActivity #FundamentalSkill
https://youtu.be/1V9GtveJztw





*ALSO*

Versa Stack by Reverie Drums

Here is the 12" Versa Stack made by Reverie Drums from their Stack Ring line of percussion items. Much more affordable than other manufactures’ stacks. A great addition to your setup and can be used in a lot of different settings. Also comes as a 14".

#reveriedrums #Versastack #Stackring #coolpercussion #clapstack #cymbalstackers

https://youtube.com/shorts/9U5nRCzteXQ?feature=share



*FINALLY*

Excerpted from “When Trumpet was the Only Option to Play in Band” an Essay Rewind as published on The Podcasting Store’s Medium page March 10, 2022.


“…Years ago, I was assisting with the trumpet station at a tryout event. It was the usual controlled chaos of showing kids how to hold the horn, buzz the mouthpiece, etc. A girl approached to take her turn and I immediately saw the obstacle: she was born without a left hand. Doing some quick math I realized that, since it is the one instrument that can be played with only the right hand, trumpet was her path to play in band. The pressure was now on me. Could I help her make a good sound and feel confident enough to join band as a trumpet player?

The challenge for these rapid style tryouts is the discouragement students sometimes feel when they do not show immediate aptitude for an instrument. Their friend can easily make a sound on it and the disappointment in their own struggle feels like an insurmountable barrier. In this moment I explain to them the difference between two things that are often thought of as the same but are very different: talents and skills.

A skill is the learned ability to do a specific activity while a talent is the natural aptitude for performing that activity. Talent is not skill, but rather the ability to learn the skill faster. That is why surviving on talent alone can only get you so far…”

https://thepodcastingstore.medium.com/when-trumpet-was-the-only-option-to-play-in-band-f67abc7c8f90

Read more essays like this:
https://medium.com/me/stories/public

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The theme this week is doing what you do better. Remember, whether you’re learning an instrument, writing a song, or making a video, if it’s worth doing it deserves your best effort.


Don’t Get Trapped by “The Checklist”

In yet another great article, Don Stinson Explores the “checklist” mindset that many music educators find themselves in. While hitting the expected milestones in a predictable time and order may work for some programs, the inflexible mindset could result in missed opportunities for enrichment and connection. As always, while the topic is specifically music education the lesson is much deeper and more universal.

#DonStinson #YamahaHub #MusicEducation #GoalSetting

https://hub.yamaha.com/music-educators/prof-dev/self-care/the-checklist/?fbclid=IwAR2gZyDim01SFQ3893DtHXHMjrLCmrZ7VI5CbGgvPfg1OeVFW_vvPhlct0I


*AND*

Your Best is Always Good Enough. It’s The View from the Road.

We’re back, and this week the conversations has turned to effort versus achievement. While we always want to achieve our goals, even in falling short a valuable lesson can be found.

#ViewFromTheRoad #BoomerMusic #MusicEducation #Effort #Achievement
https://youtu.be/fNo2NvbhQEA




*ALSO*

Better Home Movies with Two Pieces of Gear

Sam, age 6, wanted to make a science experiment video. But not knowing how he was going to use the space and what direction the video would go, two key pieces of gear were necessary – a wireless system and a phone holder. We’ve talked about this before, but it bears repeating, since quality content is easily attainable!

#ThePodcastingStore #HerculesDB207B #RODEWirelessPro #HomeMovies #BetterContent

https://youtu.be/d7xdGoFrC-U



*FINALLY*

Excerpted from “Unseen Errors in Unheard Music” as published on The Podcasting Store’s Medium page


“Maestro, I would like you to meet Drew Holmes. He’s one of our students working in the library this summer” Clint said as he introduced me to the guest conductor.

I was slightly starstruck. The conductor was Bobby McFerrin and I had asked to accompany Clint to deliver the scores for that night’s performance on the off chance of meeting him. Clint made sure of it with that introduction, but then something unexpected happened.

“You’re Clinton!” came the Maestro’s excited reply “You find the wrong notes!”

That caught me off guard. World famous recording artist and conductor Bobby McFerrin was a fan of Clint Nieweg, Principal Librarian of the Philadelphia Orchestra? There was more to this than I realized.

I had been an intern in the Philadelphia Orchestra Library for just a couple of weeks and my eyes were opened wider each day. Most striking in Clint’s library was the focus on finding mistakes and fixing publishing errors. A file cabinet full of errata lists was by the stairs and professional orchestra librarians from around the world frequently submitted requests for copies to edit their performing materials.

While at the time I was intrigued by this proofing and error correcting, a recent article drove home the importance of these scholarly activities…”

https://thepodcastingstore.medium.com/unseen-errors-in-unheard-music-d88266c84739

https://van-magazine.com/mag/florence-price-schirmer-errors/?fbclid=IwAR32zkISrBfjXC4mb5__W5IP4SVU7IJmF8TD4uQEDfYGqghpzxFWUbpCXWE

Read more essays like this:
https://medium.com/me/stories/public

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Sam, age 6, wanted to make a science experiment video. But not knowing how he was going to use the space and what direction the video would go, two key pieces of gear were necessary – a wireless system and a phone holder. We’ve talked about this before, but it bears repeating, since quality content is easily attainable!

#ThePodcastingStore #HerculesDB207B #RODEWirelessPro #HomeMovies #BetterContent

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It’s Leap Day this week, and that means 24 extra hours to do something awesome. Whether it’s making music or learning a new skill make the most of this extra time!


5 Things to Know on Instrument Tryout Night

Trying musical instruments for the first time can be intimidating and overwhelming. No worries! Drew has you covered with the 5 things you should consider to get the most out of this awesome opportunity.

#BoomerMusic #5Things #MusicEducation #TryoutNight #InstrumentExploration

https://youtube.com/shorts/p_CRvXPGL2c



*AND*

Color Grading in Less than 30 Seconds

Mystified by all the options with color grading in Davinci Resolve? Us too, but we're expanding our knowledge. And @zanehoyer has a dead simple intro to one basic way to get results in less time than it took to read this. Check it out and start taking your videos to the next level.

#ZaneHoyer #DaVinciResolve #ColorGrading #VideoEditing
https://www.youtube.com/post/UgkxG_NqiNFDB8ciSF3RbVBExh9bTKSMUPov




*ALSO*

The VSM 3000 Green Screen Kit, in Short

Green screens are super useful tools when making videos. And the best part about this one? It’s portable enough to take anywhere!

#ThePodcastingStore #OnStage #GreenScreen #VideoContent #VSM3000

https://youtube.com/shorts/5z2xMkt31rs



*FINALLY*

“Research Finds That Playing an Instrument or Singing Helps Keep Your Brain Healthy”
by Madeleine Muzdakis, published on My Modern Met February 6, 2024


A recent study published in the International Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry suggests that actively engaging with music, particularly through playing instruments, offers cognitive benefits for older adults. Drawing data from over 1,100 participants aged 40 and above, the research found that playing instruments, especially piano, yielded the greatest cognitive gains. The study emphasizes the importance of the social nature of music and considers music education, even in later stages of life, as a valuable tool for cognitive preservation.

https://mymodernmet.com/playing-instrument-brain/?

https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/gps.6061

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