Monday, December 18, 2017

Dreams, Part Deux

I had a couple weird dreams last night, and so I thought I’d write about dreams - especially since they are so prominent in Christmas themes. Last night I didn’t have sugar plums dancing in my head, but I did have a weird hospital dream where strange things were happening. I won’t go into it because my dreams often shift so quickly from one thing to another that they’re very incoherent and hard to explain. I probably dreamt of a hospital because a friend is just wrapping up a hospital stay. But dreams seem to be where we work out concerns or envision utopian landscapes. I just finished a book over the weekend called “The Four Agreements” which poses that everything that happens in life is part of either our individual or collective waking dream of reality. That’s an interesting concept - thinking that each of us has a dream of what we think life should be, and we make it happen by our vision of the dream. It goes along with my idea that we make our own reality - choosing what we want our life to be every day. I see this in Christmas too. I carry a dream of what Christmas should be, and I celebrate it according to that dream or vision I have for it. And as a society we do this too. I just watched a documentary about Santa Claus that showed how he developed in history from Saint Nicholas. I had no idea that his concept had changed so much over history and that other cultures have such a different view of him and how they celebrate this season. (Call me the dumb American.) And he’s part of this whole cultural Christmas celebration dream every year - from the gifts to the music, food, shows, and traditions we share. And it brings up one of my favorite Christmas songs that looks like might be true for southern Colorado this year - “White Christmas”. I’m dreaming of a white Christmas, and it looks like we’re going to have one! So dream big, my friends, and have a Merry Christmas and wonderful holiday season!

What happened last week?

Friday night at PDubs was a great crowd, and many Christmas songs were sung. Thanks to everyone who came out and made it so much fun.

What’s up this week?

Wednesday night is big doin's at the Pueblo Zoo. I’ve teamed with the folks at the zoo to do a live walk-around of their ElectriCritters light display and two hour's worth of music outdoors and indoors. It all starts at 5:20 before the gates open when I’ll walk through the display for 10 minutes or so singing and broadcasting on my Concert Window channel at concertwindow.com/tommunch and the zoo folks will do the same on their Facebook page at facebook.com/pueblozoo. Then we’ll open the gates and plug into the sound system and pick up the online broadcast to sing carols and sing-along at 5:45 at the zoo outdoor stage (called the “Den”) where they’ll have hot drinks in addition to their Candy Cane Cafe where they have more hot drinks and goodies. We’ll wrap up the outdoor portion of the evening at 6:45 and move indoors to their classroom decorated for Christmas where we’ll do more singing and broadcasting in a warmer and more intimate setting. The whole thing will wrap up at 8:00 which will give folks another half hour to see the lights until they close the gates at 8:30. It will be a great celebration of Christmas, and I hope it sounds like something everyone will want to be part of. It’s supposed to get cold later that night, but hopefully it will be relatively nice after a predicted high of 57° that day. This is part of the zoo's nightly ElectriCritters display Dec 15-23 and 26-30.

Tickets are

Advance (bought before event hours):
Non-member adult: $6
Non-member child: $4

Member adult: $4
Member child: $3

Regular (Bought during event hours):
Non-member adult: $7
Non-member child: $5

Member adult: $5
Member child: $4

Friday night 6-9 I’m back at Neon Alley Bistro for a special night of great food, friends, and Christmas music. Being so close to Christmas it will feel extra–special being together that night, and I know the spirit and love will be flowing. Please come out for a warm night of Christmas friendship. Maybe we’ll do some sing-along there as well if folks are up to it.

That’s it for this week. I don’t know if I’ll do a mailer next week with Christmas, so I’ll wish you all the best for a wonderful Christmas Day and a Happy and safe New Year's Eve and New Year's Day (in case I miss next week too.)

Nest always,

Tom

Details this week:

Who:  Tom Munch
What:  playing and singing and broadcasting
Where:  Pueblo Zoo, 3455 Nuckolls Ave, Pueblo, 719-561-1452
When:  Wednesday, 5:20, 5:45-6:45, and 7-8

Who:  Tom Munch
What:  playing and singing
Where:  Neon Alley Bistro, 304 S Victoria Ave Ste D, Pueblo, 719-299-4769
When:  Friday, December 22, 6-9 pm

Monday, December 11, 2017

Pacing Ourselves

One of the more interesting things about the holiday season is how we wax and wane with our enthusiasm. I often tell my audiences at this time of the year to pace themselves with the Christmas spirit. I’m surprised that some of them really don’t want to hear Christmas music by the second week of December because they’re already burnt out on it, having heard it non-stop for weeks. That’s unfortunate, and I think we often attribute that to the over-saturation of Christmas ads and syrupy happiness we see. I see that too, but the warmth and joy of the Season is too big to just brush aside. I don’t know where the magic of the season comes from for me. Maybe it’s the memories of Christmases when I was a child or the traditions I know have been handed down for generations. Maybe it’s the giving and forgetting of our differences to try to attain peace for just a brief time. Whatever it is (and it’s all of these things) it fills me with spirit that I can’t resist. But I don’t start too early, and I don’t let myself be bombarded by ever-present advertising and pressure. I pace myself with little meaningful bits and ground myself with real stories and genuine connections. That way it stands as strong as ever, and I peak my spirit on Christmas Day.

What have I been up to?

Friday at Neon Alley Bistro was so much fun, and the food was so tasty. It’s always an experience and a delight to be there and drink in the atmosphere that the folks exude. If you haven’t been you’re missing out on some of the best food in Pueblo and nicest folks around. My music seems to fit right in.

Sunday night at the Littleton Museum for their Holidays Evening was really cool (atmosphere and temperature!) they really know how to put on a Christmas party, and I was thrilled to see family and friends from the Denver area out to celebrate the season. They had bonfires and cider and great cookies as well as fun stuff like Gus, the Yule Goat! I loved it!

What’s up this week?

Friday night I’m back at PDub Brewing 6-9 in Pueblo West. I’m enjoying my visits there and their seasonal beers like their pumpkin beer that I wasn’t sure I’d like but really enjoyed! Come on out for a beer and a sandwich with some cool holiday music.

What’s on the horizon?

I set up a really neat gig with the Pueblo Zoo on Wednesday, December 20th 5:20-8 to help them celebrate their nightly 15-23 and 26-30 ElectriCritters light display. I’ll be playing outdoors and indoors as well as broadcasting live online at concertwindow.com/tommunch to ring in the Christmas season starting with a live walk-around of the light display at 5:20, then after the gates open at 5:30 I’ll do a sing-along of Christmas tunes on their outdoor stage (if the weather is nice enough) from 5:45-6:45, and finally I’ll go inside to close out the evening with a fun and sweet Christmas concert from 7-8. I’m really looking forward to this and hope it’s something everyone will want to join in on. Dress warmly and bring your Christmas spirit. Prices are:

Advance (bought before event hours):
Non-member adult: $6
Non-member child: $4

Member adult: $4
Member child: $3

Regular (Bought during event hours):
Non-member adult: $7
Non-member child: $5

Member adult: $5
Member child: $4

You can find more details on the Zoo's Facebook page facebook.com/pueblozoo, and they’ll also broadcast the walk-around on Facebook live at 5:20 that day.

That’s it for this week. I’m really enjoying the season, and I hope you are too. Pace yourself and it can be a season to remember.

Best always,

Tom

Details this week:

Who: Tom Munch
What: singing and playing
Where: PDub Brewing Company Taproom, 181 S Purcell Blvd, Pueblo West, 719-647-8864
When: Friday, December 15, 6-9 pm

Monday, December 4, 2017

Joy of the Season

Having done an online Christmas concert last night, I’m now really getting into the spirit of the holidays.  I know I’ve written about this before, but I really think of what this season brings to people emotionally and spiritually.  Traditionally it has been a time of togetherness and festivity no matter whether it was for Christmas, solstice, or any other number of religious and secular celebrations.  It is a time of short nights and colder days that lead to cabin fever and seasonal affective disorder as well.  I usually lean towards the festivity and sacred togetherness - finding comfort in the traditions of food and family and wonderful holiday music.  I’ve said before that Christmas music is very unique.  It is some of the only music that we all know so well that we can sing every word and share common emotions.  But I know that everyone can reflect on losses at the holidays and harder times, so sometimes this is brought up in us as well.  That’s okay.  There is a lot of pressure to be cheery and giving of yourself, and sometimes you have to manufacture these feelings in order to participate.  Funny thing is that sometimes that “manufacturing” is all it takes to get in the spirit.  So I encourage you to let yourself soak in the spirit and enjoy the holidays.  It’s a long winter with little festivities and some long, cold nights, so let’s be merry and enjoy each other and the festive traditions of the season.

What have I been up to?

Friday’s Christmas party was plenty of fun with some folks I haven’t seen in ages.  It was so good to reconnect and share some music and camaraderie.

Saturday with the state reps from all over the West was a blast as well.  I ended up carrying a bunch of equipment all over the Broadmoor grounds and looking like a sherpa, but it was well worth it meeting new friends and sharing memories with old friends.  These western legislators have a penchant for great music like Ian Tyson and Tom Russell, so I had such a good time.

Sunday’s online concert was super fun too.  If you missed it I did the concert from my brother and sister-in-law’s house with several friends in the living room all around me for a live audience.  It went very well and the audience of friends added an energy that was really special.

What’s up this week?

Friday I’m back at Neon Alley Bistro 6-9 for another evening of great food and atmosphere with good friends in the coolest alley full of neon signs that I’ve ever seen.  It is a very neat place.  The food is European with an emphasis on presentation and great taste.  They believe in making a meal a special experience, just like I like to do with my music, and so it seems too good to be true.  Come on out if you’re in the Pueblo area on Friday night.

Sunday night 5:30-8 I’m playing at Littleton Museum Holiday’s Evening 2017.  I’m outside in a heated tent by the barn where there’ll be all kinds of warm goodies like apple cider, cinnamon, cookies, and hay rides.  It sounds like a good old-fashioned Christmas time, and I’m looking forward to it!  Details are on their Facebook page - https://www.facebook.com/LittletonMuseum/.  I’d love to have you there if you’re in the Littleton area.  Ticket prices are:
Friends of Littleton Museum Adult: $7.00 
Friends of Littleton Museum Child (2-16 yrs): $3.00
General Public Adult: $10.00
General Public Child (2-16 yrs): $4.00
Call the museum if you have any questions - 303-795-3950

That’s it for this week.  Enjoy the season, and I hope to see you soon!

Best always,

Tom

Details this week:

Who:  Tom Munch
What:  playing and singing
Where:  Neon Alley Bistro, 304 S Victoria Ave Ste D, Pueblo, 719-299-4769
When:  Friday, December 8, 6-9 pm

Who:  Tom Munch
What:  playing and singing for Littleton Museum Holiday’s Evening 2017
Where:  Littleton Museum, 6028 S Gallup St, Littleton, CO, 303-795-3950

When:  Sunday, December 10, 5:30-8 pm

Monday, November 27, 2017

Dreams

I have the most interesting dreams, and quite often I think they are messages from the great beyond. I know that may sound odd, but let me tell you about them. I often dream about my dad since he passed 12 years ago. He usually just happens to be in the scene off to the side. I'll notice him in my peripheral vision, and he'll smile at me - letting me know he's always there and to keep on keepin' on. I've only dreamed about my mom once since she passed a couple years ago. She just "happened" to be in the scene too - letting me know again that everything was fine and to keep living life to the fullest. You won't believe who was in my dream last night - Dan Fogelberg. I was skiing with him, or rather watching him ski with gusto and joy. He was flying along in the powder, tumbling and laughing - reminding me that life is a joyous thing to be lived and loved. What a glorious way to be reminded! And as we rush into this holiday season I'm grateful to approach it with all the love and joy I can muster. And that's just my dreams of others. I also have flying dreams and other adventures. Do you dream like this?

What have I been up to?

Wednesday at the Zoo for the tree lighting ceremony was great fun! We had a big turnout and it was beautiful.

Friday night at Neon Alley Bistro was quite nice. We had a good crowd, and it was a listening night with lots of requests and back-and-forth. I like that!

Saturday I didn't end up playing at the Parade of Lights. The facility I was to play for had to cancel because the flu had struck many of the folks and staff. Unfortunately that happens as the seasons change each year. Hopefully everyone will have only a short bout with it.

What am I up to this week?

Friday night I'm playing a Christmas party at the VFW in Pueblo West. They seem like fine folks, and I'm looking forward to it.

Saturday night I'm playing my annual show for the Council of State Governments. I enjoy meeting these public servants from all over the West and getting to share some cowboy music with them.

Sunday I'll be online from our living room for my first-Sunday monthly concert. Well, hopefully it will be from our living room. We're having our flooring redone this week, and hopefully we'll have our living room put back together by Sunday. Either way it will be a fine night of Christmas music to kick off the season. Please tune in if you can - concertwindow.com/tommunch.

That's it for this week. Don't forget if you're in the Denver area that I'm playing at the Littleton Museum for their Christmas celebration December 10 from 5:30-8. Details are on their Facebook page - https://www.facebook.com/LittletonMuseum/.

Best always,

Tom

Details of public gigs this week:

Who: Tom Munch
What: playing and singing
Where: online at https://www.concertwindow.com/
When: Sunday, December 3, 7-8ish pm MST

Monday, November 20, 2017

How Much is Just Right?

I’m trying to balance my gigs so that folks don’t get too much of me and my music, and it has me thinking of how we figure how much we decide to do every little thing in our lives. For my gigs it’s figuring how much to play in a certain town or venue before I reach saturation, but in life it's figuring how much we do almost any hobby or habit. How’s that? When I was younger I used to pick up a hobby or favorite place that I would overdo - wanting to go hiking or kite-flying or you-name-it all the time. I’d also do it with food - for me it was chips and salsa or popcorn (I still love these!) Luckily I never got addicted to anything like alcohol or drugs or tobacco. (That a whole other ball of wax.) But “everything in moderation” is good advice for anything in our lives, and obsession can lead to ruin even when it’s not addiction to a substance. As I’ve grown older I find that I tire of things more quickly, and so moderation is easier to attain. But I still get on a “kick” every now and then that fills a lot of my time. And my idea has now seemed to stray in this paragraph from how many gigs to do in a certain town or venue. Welcome to my thought process!  But I think you get the gist of where I’m going. A path taken too often will eventually become a rut. It’s an obvious piece of wisdom.

What have I been up to?

Last Friday at PDubs was a lot of fun. I had some good neighbors and friends come out, and we even dedicated the better part of a set to Chuck Pyle songs.

What’s up this week?

For Thanksgiving week I have several fun gigs.

Wednesday evening 5:30-6:30 I’ll be playing for the very first Tree Lighting Ceremony at the Pueblo Zoo. There’ll be hot cocoa, adult beverages, and more. They’re also having a Gingerbread House Contest, and the houses will be on display before and after the ceremony. Tickets are $10 which also gets you 2 tickets to see the ElectriCritters lighting display. It should be a great evening. There’s more info here - http://www.pueblozoo.org/gingerbread

Friday night I’m back at Neon Alley Bistro 6-9. We had such a great time 2 weeks ago when I played there, and I’m hoping we'll build on that as we go. The food and wine were superb, and the friendship was flowing. Come on out! It’s best to make a reservation since seating is limited 719-299-4769

Saturday night I’ll be playing on a float for Brookdale El Camino Assisted Living at the Pueblo Parade of Lights. I’ve never done this before, and I expect it’ll be a blast leading the singing for everyone riding on the float. If you’re there give a cheer as we glide by!

That’s it for this week. Have a wonderful Thanksgiving!

Best always,

Tom

Details this week:

Who:  Tom Munch
What:  playing and singing for the Tree Lighting Ceremony
Where:  Pueblo Zoo
When:  Wednesday, November 22, 5:30-6:30 pm

Who:  Tom Munch
What:  playing and singing
Where:  Neon Alley Bistro, 304 S Victoria Ave Ste D, Pueblo, 719-299-4769
When:  Friday, November 24, 6-9 pm

Monday, November 13, 2017

Adapting

We’ve been ripping up our house to put in new flooring - a consequence of our little kitty and her problems related to her illnesses. That means we have a lot of bare floors and everyday things that are put away as we pack them into rooms to clear the floors of the rooms we’re reflooring in phase one. The funny thing is how quickly we adapt to the changes. I’ve found this repeatedly in my life, and I’ve grown to like change although it comes harder with age. I used to purposely change things regularly just to experience something different. I did this with guitar techniques, software programs, and how I arranged my stuff. Of course, you don’t do this when you’re under the gun to finish a project and need everything in its place, but the brain’s ability to adapt to changes amazes me and delights me. And I think it keeps us young to some extent - encouraging our brain to use its plasticity to create new pathways and connections. They say our brain can continue to grow and expand into our old age if we stimulate it. I think this is true - even with new ideas and philosophies to ponder. I find that my life is a continuous balance of habit and discovery, and I love it!

What have I been up to?

Last Friday was an absolute blast at Neon Alley Bistro. We had a packed house for my first time there, and I really enjoyed the people, the food, and the vibe of the place. We’re talking about doing a couple times a month there, so stay tuned!

Last Saturday was a really cool show at the Veterans home in Walsenburg. The TV themes and commercials were so much fun to reminisce on, and the audience contributed mightily to the trivia and memories.

What’s up this week?

Friday 6-9 I’m back at PDub Brewing Company in Pueblo West. I’m really enjoying my nights at PDubs, and I’m loving the beer and sandwiches. Hopefully I’ll have Brad sit in this week. Please come out and join in the fun if you can!

That’s it for this week. I hope you have wonderful plans for Thanksgiving. I’m playing for the tree lighting at the Pueblo Zoo the night before Thanksgiving, and then I’m on a float at the Parade of Lights that Saturday, so I’m going to make the most of Thanksgiving myself.

Best always,

Tom

Details this week:

Who: Tom Munch
What: singing and playing
Where: PDub Brewing Company Taproom, 181 S Purcell Blvd, Pueblo West, 719-647-8864
When: Friday, November 17, 6-9 pm

Monday, November 6, 2017

Experimentation

I wanted to write a little bit about experimentation this week. I’ve found in my life that I’ve always loved experimenting with just about every aspect of my existence - from how I walk to what computer programs and mobile apps I use. I think I’m kind of an amateur scientist in this respect. I like looking at the nth degree and tiniest detail of how something is done and then tweaking it slightly to see how it changes. It’s part of the amazement and wonder I see in this world - how there is beauty and meticulous interaction in every little part of our world. And beyond the fascination there is often a benefit to slightly adjusting things because it makes our life better. I see this experimentation in everything I do, but I particularly see it in my guitar playing. There are an infinite number of ways you can make sound with a string from different attack, different material to pluck with, and playing with the rhythm in minute ways. It’s mind boggling and so much fun! How about you? Do you like to experiment?

What have I been up to?

Last night’s first-Sunday online concert was just a blast! I had so many of you fine folks tuning in and sending me messages. I hope you liked the songs I played. Can’t wait for next month’s show. I said I might do random shows some months, and I might just do that sometime soon. I have a hankering to do some themed shows like cowboy and standards.

What’s up this week?

Saturday 2-3 I’m playing a show at the Spanish Peaks Veterans Community Living Center in Walsenburg with my friends, Ken Saydak, Sherri Kraxberger, Joe Camacho, and Sherry Pacheco. I love playing these shows for the vets, and we’ve come up with a really fun one this year - we’re doing old television show themes and commercials and a few old songs including a tribute to Fats Domino. It has been a gas putting together this show, and I hope the vets get as much fun out of the performance as we have had putting it together. Thank you for your service, veterans!

What’s beyond?

I’m talking to a few new places to play, and I’m excited about the prospects. I’ll let you know when I have concrete dates.

I have more details about my Denver gig December 10. I’m playing at the Littleton Museum 5:30-8 for their “A Holiday Evening at the Littleton Museum” event. I’ll be performing at the 1890's farm at the entrance to the barn. I’ll be in a tent with heaters, and there’ll be hot cider and goodies, so if you’re in Denver come on out for a fun evening of Christmas celebration. There should be more info at their website soon. https://www.littletongov.org/city-services/city-departments/museum

That’s it for this week. Time to go out and experiment!

Best always,

Tom

Update - Gig this Friday 6-9 at Neon Alley Bistro I just booked a gig Friday that I’m excited about and want to share with you all. I’m playing at a new venue called Neon Alley Bistro in Pueblo 6-9. Neon Alley is a wonderful room with great acoustics, a nice stage, wonderful folks, and very interesting and tasty food. Pellumb and Joette, the folks who are running it, love making good food and providing an inviting atmosphere. The location is where La Luna and the Songbird were previously. Check out their Facebook page - https://www.facebook.com/NeonAlleyBistro/ This could be the start of a beautiful friendship! Details: Who: Tom Munch What: playing and singing Where: Neon Alley Bistro, 304 S Victoria Ave Ste D, Pueblo, 719-299-4769 When: Friday, November 10, 6-9 pm



Monday, October 30, 2017

Friendship and Memory

We had dinner last night with several couples we have been friends with for many years, and I have to reflect on the warm feelings it brought up in me. You go through so many things with friends over the years - happy times and sad. Remembering those things when we're together is so enjoyable and life-affirming. It helps me remember why I’m here and what I want in life. We really are social creatures who need each other. We live individual lives where we can express ourselves and choose our path, but meanwhile we bond along the way in enriching interactions that teach us more about ourselves. It’s pretty cool and pretty special. Here’s to friendship and memory!

What have I been up to?

PDubs a couple Fridays ago was a lot of fun. I had some good friends come out for a really neat night. Thanks, everybody!

What’s up this week?

Sunday at 7:00 I’m doing another of my first-Friday Online Living Room Concerts. I’m really enjoying these concerts. I'm getting to interact with friends from all over the country in an intimate and meaningful way, and isn’t that what life’s all about? I’d love to have you in my audience as well. Just tune in to concertwindow.com/tommunch on whatever device you have in front of you and watch. If you want to log in to the site you can make comments and join in on the conversation. If you don’t want to log in you can always email or message me with a comment. It’s fun and free. I haven’t decided if I’ll have a theme this month, but it’ll be interesting either way. See you there!

More on the “Perfect Place” to play

I’ve had some really good feedback from folks about cool places to play and listen to music. I’m checking out a couple places locally, and I’ll be contacting some folks farther afield as well. Please give me more ideas as you have them. 

What’s happening up the road?

I just booked an outdoor event in Littleton, Colorado, December 10, from 5-8:30, playing outdoors for their official annual Christmas event. It sounds like a lot of fun, but I don’t have all the details yet. If you’ll be in Denver on December 10 I hope you can stop by. I’ll post more as I hear. I’m booking this with my old friend Chuck Pyle's agent, Terri Stewart, and I’m thrilled to be working with her. More to come!

That’s it for this week. Take care of yourself, and don’t eat too much candy or get too scared on Halloween. 

Best always,

Tom

Details this week:

Who:  Tom Munch
What:  playing and singing
Where:  online at https://www.concertwindow.com/

When:  Sunday, November 5, 7-8ish pm MDT

Monday, October 16, 2017

Perfect Place to Play

I've been thinking about something practical that also speaks to something larger - places to play and listen to music. I’ve played in a lot of different places over the years, and I’ve listened in several places as well. Some were spiritually uplifting, and some were a painful chore. Lots of factors contributed to the experience - from the people, to the room, to the sound system, to the food, to the atmosphere, to the hum of the evening, to you-name-it. Like every situation in life, every factor has something to do with the overall feeling. There are some places that are downright magical - like Red Rocks or a beautiful old theater. You can feel the vibrations of millions of musical notes and shared emotions. Other venues are not so inspiring, but the people and the music overcome the limitations. My practical bent in this paragraph is that I’m looking for a few venues to play in the future. Magpies is scaling back, and I’d like some nice rooms to play for people who want to listen and make some magical evenings. Think of places where you love to be and where my music might add something special to the evening. It doesn’t have to be a music venue. In fact, some of my favorite places haven’t been. Just a place where the vibe is good and folks like to gather and share life. That’s what I’m looking for. Any suggestions in southern Colorado and beyond?

What have I been up to?

Friday a couple weeks ago was great fun playing for good friends in La Veta. It was a beautiful evening in a very nice outside patio with a wood stove and old friends who sang along and made good memories.

The following Saturday was the Chuck Pyle Tribute Concert at Swallow Hill in Denver, and I can’t say enough good things about the night. I was among musicians I’ve looked up to and admired all my adult life, and we all came together to perform and share memories in tribute to someone we all admired - Chuck Pyle. There were some wonderful videos of the night posted on Facebook that are worth seeing if you’re interested. I post all my Facebook posts as public, so they should be visible to everyone.

What’s up this week?

Friday I’m back at PDubs for another fun night of good beer and food with fine friends. I always enjoy the vibe at PDubs. Please come out if you can.

What’s on the horizon?

As I said in my update above, I haven’t been able to schedule Magpies for any dates this fall. Hopefully we can still work out some dates after the first of the year, but I am on the hunt for another comfortable place in Pueblo that folks enjoy and would be interested in my music. I’d like to do the same in other communities around Pueblo, and if I was a little more driven I’d already be there. So if you know of a nice place, I’m open for it.

But I do have some interesting gigs like my annual show for the Council of State Governments, my first-Sunday online concerts, my third-Friday PDubs gigs, some great private parties, playing for the tree lighting at the Pueblo Zoo November 22, concerts at the Bell Tower Cultural Center in Florence January 20 and March 17, and many more I’m working on.

I have even been toying with the idea of scaling back my performances at so many nursing facilities and writing and recording more - even if the recordings are simpler and mainly posted online. At this point in my career I feel like maybe I have something to say that needs to be out in the ether. Maybe I won’t, but it’s a thought worth pursuing.

That’s it for this week. Thank you for your continued friendship and support!

See you down the road,

Tom

Details this week:

Who: Tom Munch
What: singing and playing
Where: PDub Brewing Company Taproom, 181 S Purcell Blvd, Pueblo West, 719-647-8864
When: Friday, October 20, 6-9 pm

Monday, October 2, 2017

Those Who Shape Us

I’m playing at a a tribute concert for one of my old friends and someone who influenced my life - Chuck Pyle - on Friday, and it has me thinking about those who shape us during our lives.  We all have people throughout our lives who come in and out and point us in different directions or show us different ways of thinking and doing what we do.  Sometimes it’s a teacher early on - I have several I could say this about.  Sometimes it’s a family friend or person we chance to meet.  Sometimes it’s a well-known figure who writes or speak so eloquently that we are compelled to listen and learn.  I find myself fascinated by the inter-workings of our relationships and how even little things can have profound effects on our direction.  I guess what I’m saying is that we each are part of a rich tapestry that is woven by many threads that pull us this way and that, and the joy of knowing this makes my life better.  Oh, and Chuck, his playing inspired me to change my music and fingerstyle complexity, and his writing helped me enjoy the beautiful vistas of the West in even more depth.  Thanks, Chuck!  And thank you to all who cross our paths and shape us.

What have I been up to?

Friday was a very enjoyable show playing for the Good Sam’s RV Rally in Pueblo.  It was a great group of folks, and it may have Jen and me looking to do the RV thing someday while I play my music in some beautiful places.

Saturday was a blast playing in Guffey for a packed house at the Bull Moose.  I got to do a really eclectic show for old and new friends.

Sunday was another interesting night of tunes for my online living room concert.  Thanks to all who came out and made it so much fun.  I always seem to go down an interesting rabbit hole of themes and songs.

What’s new this week?

Friday I’m playing for a private party in the mountains that should be great fun.  I so enjoy playing for music-loving folks in their homes.

Saturday I’m playing for the Chuck Pyle tribute I mentioned above at Swallow Hill in Denver with a bunch of other stellar players.  I’d love to have you there if you’d like and if tickets are still available.  You can find the details here - http://connect.swallowhillmusic.org/EventTicket/EventDetail/2689/id0/an-evening-of-the-music-of-chuck-pyle-denver-2017

That’s it for this week.  Take care, and I hope to see you soon!

Best always,

Tom

Details this week:

Who:  Tom Munch and a host of great players
What:  playing a tribute concert to Chuck Pyle
Where:  Swallow Hill, 71 E. Yale Ave., Denver, CO
When:  Saturday, October 7, 7:00 pm

Monday, September 25, 2017

What Is Music and Creative Output?

One of the weirdest parts of doing music for a living is dealing with copyright issues. Anytime a song is performed in public or recorded for sale someone must be paid a royalty for it. It used to be fairly simple, but now it is more complicated with digital music and streaming as well as copyrights running much longer than they used to (80 instead of 18 years currently.) I have nothing against people being paid for their work, but it does go against what many musicians feel about what music really is. Many of us feel that the music comes through us from somewhere else - from the muse or the wind or the universe. It does take time and sometimes considerable effort to capture it, so we can see being paid for that, but we know the song and inspiration doesn’t come from within us. There is magic and mystery afoot that we are privileged to be a part of. I have a utopian idea of what it would be like to not deal with money and pay, but in our society that’s not how it works, and we must value music enough to pay for it so that musicians can live and thrive. (This sounds like a plea for funding - it’s not.) Of course I could just write all my own music so that I don’t have copyright worries with other people’s music, but I would even need to collect for performing my own music - technically. Pretty crazy, huh? Contrast this with someone like a comedian. They don’t have defined pieces of comedy usually like a musician has a song, so there aren’t the same copyright issues and royalties to be paid. Anyway, it’s a slice of my life that surprises some. A magical song has chains tied to it that seem contrary to the very spirit of music. Weird, huh?

What have I been up to?

I didn’t have any public gigs last week, but the week before I had a lot of fun.

Wednesday playing for the Medal of Honor recipients at El Pueblo Museum was just a treat!  The folks were so vibrant, alive, and appreciative.

Friday at PDubs was a fine crowd with new and old friends.  It was a super night.

Saturday at the reunion I got to play so many old favorites with my friends.  It was special.

Sunday playing for the folks from the college was also a very special event.  I got to meet the president of CSU-Pueblo and several other folks I haven’t seen in years.

What am I up to this week?

Friday I’m playing for a big Samboree RV event.  I love playing for these folks and have played for this group several times.  One of the things I’m thinking of doing in my later years is to travel in an RV and play for different RV parks.  I think it would be a great way to see the country while still doing a little music in a semi-retired state.

Saturday 6-9  I’m back at the Bull Moose in Guffey.  I really enjoy the folks of Guffey, and my performance back in July which was the first one I’d had there in a few years was a blast.  I expect this one will be just as fun again!  Com on out if you’re up that way.

Sunday 7-8ish MDT is my first-Sunday monthly online concert from my living room.  I get to play for friends all over the country at these concerts, and I really look forward to checking in with so many and getting to play from my home sanctuary.  Please login if you can so you can make comments during the show or send me a Facebook message or text.  Hope to see you then!

That’s it for this week.  Hope you are enjoying the fall.

Best always,

Tom

Details this week:

Who:  Tom Munch
What:  playing and singing
Where:  Bull Moose, Guffey.  719-689-4199
When:  Saturday, September 30, 1-4 pm

Who:  Tom Munch
What:  playing and singing
Where:  online at https://www.concertwindow.com/
When:  Sunday, October 1, 7-8ish pm MDT

Monday, September 11, 2017

Caring in Tragedy

I'm watching the coverage of the hurricane in Florida and remembrances of 9/11 and thinking about life. We’ve had so much contention of late, and I’m hoping we can pull together over tragedies like we’re dealing with instead of continuing the ill will. We seem to bond together when we have a common cause or enemy. I’ve said before how I believe we are all connected and how we need each other in this life. When we go through tragedy we somehow realize this deep down. We are all an essential part of this life, and when we realize this we treat each other with kindness and caring. This love and caring is powerful, and I believe it is the way forward. It seems to be the “better angels of our nature” as Lincoln put it. Let's seize the moment and share it. 

What have I been up to?

Monday with the Atomic Fireballs at the Royal Gorge Bridge was a blast! It’s amazing how much fun can be had with a group of good players.

Wednesday at Senior Safari at the Pueblo Zoo was great fun too if a little hectic with the extra tent-space and altered setup. It was great to see so many folks I know and cherish. 

My private parties were also quite enjoyable - in beautiful places with really good folks. I’m blessed to know them. 

What’s up this week?

Wednesday evening I’m playing for one of the Medal of Honor celebrations going on this month in Pueblo. It’s great that the community is honoring these brave folks, and I’m proud to be part of it. 

Friday 6-9 I’m back at PDub Brewing Company in Pueblo West. I enjoy these folks so much, and it’s great to see people in Pueblo West that I used to play for in the days of the Pueblo West Inn. Come on out for a tasty brew, a sandwich, and some music if you can. 

Saturday I plan to play a few tunes at an Philmont reunion at some good friends' house in Colorado Springs. It’s so great to see old friends and reminisce!

Sunday afternoon I’m playing a private party that’s part of the annual Whisker 
Ball fundraiser. I donate performances to several organizations like this, and you’d be surprised how many times the good folks bid on my offering and then never set up for me to play for an event for them. That’s fine, but I’m happy to finally be able to make good on my donation. 

That’s it for this week. My mind will be on the tragedies around our world this week, and I’m hoping our caring can bring us together. 

Best always,

Tom

Details this week:

Who: Tom Munch
What: singing and playing
Where: PDub Brewing Company Taproom, 181 S Purcell Blvd, Pueblo West, 719-647-8864
When: Friday, Se ptember 15, 6-9 pm


Monday, September 4, 2017

Changing Gears

The summer is over, and it’s time to change gears. I’m always a little reticent at this time of year and a little uneasy when things slow down. It’s as if it’ll never come back to the busy time ever again. Of course I know better than that, but I still feel it. And to be honest I don’t have a lot planned this winter. I’ve been running so hard that I haven’t really stopped to think ahead too much. I have a few things scheduled, but there are some changes and opportunities coming. To start with I won’t be back at Magpies as much. We’re talking about cutting back to first Fridays instead of first and third Fridays, and we haven’t figured when we can start, so you’ll have to stay tuned. I will be staying at PDubs in Pueblo West on the third Friday of each month as I’ve been doing through the summer. I may pick something else up locally, and I’m still thinking of playing in the Springs. I have the Chuck Pyle tribute concert coming up at the beginning of October, and there are several private parties. Of course I’ll be continuing my first-Sunday online concerts, and you can take a look at my calendar on my website to see what else I have coming up. I may start writing another album too. I’m starting to feel the urge. So that’s a little of the changes coming up for me. Stay tuned!

What have I been up to?

Saturday playing with the Atomic Fireballs at the Royal Gorge Bridge was a heck of a lot of fun. We played for 8 hours, but it flew by like it was only 4.

Sunday's online concert was great fun too. I did some new songs that surprised some folks, I heard. I like doing that.

What’s up this week?

Monday I’m back at the Royal Gorge Bridge with the Atomic Fireballs 12:30-4:30. I’m sure it’s going to be another fun afternoon.

Wednesday 10:30-1:00 I’m playing at the annual Senior Safari at the Pueblo Zoo which is always very enjoyable. They hope to draw 1000 people this year, and we will have a huge tent set up to complement the pavilion. It’s a free day for seniors with pizza and salad provided and my music and then bingo in addition to lots of special animals with the docents and the whole rest of the zoo which is always just great.

Tuesday and Friday I have private parties for some great folks which I’m really looking forward to.

That’s it for this week. I hope you have a good Labor Day and a great start to your September.

Best always,

Tom

Details this week:

Who: Tom Munch and the Atomic Fireballs
What: playing and singing
Where: South side of the Royal Gorge at the Royal Gorge Bridge on the stage just off the bridge
When: Monday, Sept 4, 12:30 am-4:30 pm

Who:  Tom Munch
What:  playing and singing at the Senior Safari - FREE to all senior citizens 65+
Where:  Pueblo Zoo
When:  Wednesday, September 6, 10:30-1:00 (event runs 10:00-2:00)

Monday, August 28, 2017

Why Are We Here?

A good friend of mine writes a blog that asked the question today, “Why are we here?” I’ve written along these lines before, but I thought I’d give my thoughts on this. It’s close to my heart. When I was younger and very involved in my local church I would have answered this question with the answer, “To glorify God.” As I’ve grown older over the years I have modified my beliefs to answer that question, “To experience life on this earth,” but these ideas are not that different. I believe that we are all an intimate part of the universe in body and soul - made from the same ingredients and forces that move the cosmos. We come here from that energy of the universe to experience life on earth - not unlike so many sci-fi stories that have expressed similar ideas, and not so different from many church teachings. I know this sounds a bit “out there,” but it’s where my head is at this point in my life. Some of this comes from something that I recently realized.  When I was very young I almost drowned when I walked off an underwater drop-off in a lake. I can remember watching myself crawling back up the drop-off as if I was out of my body and a few feet away. I remembered this incident when I was going through the stuff at my mom's house after she passed. Ever since then I’ve always had a sense of timelessness and peace that I’ve written about before. It makes me know that everything will be okay. It also showed me that I am not my body although that is where I reside while on this earth. (I have hesitated to share these ideas because I know it will put off some of you who read my blog, but I feel it is important to state our beliefs to others. The recent eclipse and people's reaction to it have emboldened me too.) There is some sort of intimate tie-in between all of us, the earth, and all the cosmos that we haven’t figured out although we get glimpses of it through science with quantum physics and consciousness studies. Someday we’ll understand all of it. Meanwhile it helps me answer that question, “Why are we here?” I believe we are here to experience all the joys, pains, and wonders of this life. Enjoy it, folks!

What have I been up to?

Sunday's fundraiser for the La Veta Fire Protection District was a blast! The rec center was decorated beautifully for the mountain luau, and everyone contributed to making it a really fun event. Dennis and Trudy and I were in fine form if a little loose with our timing, but we had such fun!

What’s up this week?

Saturday all day (10:30-2:30 and 3-7 pm) I’m playing at the Royal Gorge Bridge with the Atomic Fireballs on the new stage where the gazebo was on the south side of the bridge. I always look forward to playing with the guys, and this should be a great Labor Day weekend.

Sunday I’m doing my first-Sunday online concert at concertwindow.com/tommunch again. I haven’t made my setlist yet, but I’m thinking toward some oldies this time. If you haven’t tuned in to one of my online concerts, I basically set up a camera and a nice mic in my living room and then play for an hour on the couch just as if we were enjoying an evening of music at home. I love doing these concerts because it gives me the chance to sing for friends from all over the country and sometimes the world. There is a chat feature if you login so you can make comments and converse with others who are tuning in. I always offer for folks to text, email, or Facebook message me with comments too. Please tune in if you can.

Monday I’m back at the Royal Gorge Bridge with the guys 12:30-4:30 for Labor Day. Come on out and spend your Labor Day at the Gorge!

Details this week:

Who: Tom Munch and the Atomic Fireballs
What: playing and singing
Where: South side of the Royal Gorge at the Royal Gorge Bridge on the stage just off the bridge
When: Saturday, Sept 2, 10:30 am-2:30 pm and 3-7 pm

Who:  Tom Munch
What:  playing and singing
Where:  online at https://www.concertwindow.com/
When:  Sunday, Sept 3, 7-8ish pm MDT

Who: Tom Munch and the Atomic Fireballs
What: playing and singing
Where: South side of the Royal Gorge at the Royal Gorge Bridge on the stage just off the bridge
When: Monday, Sept 4, 12:30 am-4:30 pm