Animals

I’m playing Wednesday for the Senior Safari at the Pueblo Zoo, and that has me thinking about animals. It’s always a thrill to go to the zoo to see the animals. I haven’t been to a lot of zoos as an adult although I do remember many that I saw when I was a kid. I think my favorite zoo is the Desert Sonoran Museum in Tucson. The way there that many of the animal habitats are set up so you can see the animals on their level and then in their den and then also from above really opens my eyes to the life of many desert species. I love the Southwest, and this is a great way to see the animals of the area. I’ve also really enjoyed seeing animals in my everyday life, whether it is our pets or the wild animals living in our neighborhood. I think you gain some important insights about life when you live with animals. You see how they live and interact. You see their young and understand the cycle of life. You feel much more a participant in the life of our earth. And most importantly, I think, you learn empathy for other beings. That is so worthwhile. I know that celebrating animals in song will be a very good thing!

——

What have I been up to?

I had 8 senior facilities last week, and they were all wonderful. It’s always a pleasure to play for them. 

My Wednesday online show was playing more songs from 1964, and it was a fun night of tunes. This was such a pivotal year for the country and the world. 

Friday I played Garden of the Gods Club, and there was an event going on plus a packed restaurant, so it was hopping. I knew several people as well including the musicians who were playing the event.

Sunday my online show was favorites and requests, and it was a good one. These evening always turn into something special.

——

What am I up this week?

I have 8 senior facilities this week, and they should all be fantastic. I start doing Fall songs in earnest this week, and there are a lot of good ones. 

Wednesday 10:30-1 I play the Senior Safari at the Pueblo Zoo. This is a great event for seniors, and I’ve been playing for it since 2001. I get a lot of folks from my senior facilities as well as  folks from the community.  If you’d like to come it’s free admission for seniors all week, and on Wednesday when I play there is free coffee and donuts in the morning, and then there’s pizza from Little Caesar’s. There are senior vendor tents all around who sponsor the event, and then when I’m done playing at 1:00 there is bingo. Of course you can go see all the animals and exhibits whenever you’d like, and there are also docents bringing animals out for everyone to see. It’s a really fun day, and I’d love to have you there if you’re a senior. 

My Wednesday online show 7-8:45 mountain time will be doing songs about animals of all kinds. It should be a really good time, and I’d love to have you if you’re free. 

Friday I’m playing a Centenarian’s Celebration that should also be a great time honoring many folks who have turned 100 or more. 

My Sunday online show 7-8:45 mountain time will be favorites and requests as always, and I know there’ll be some great requests. There always are. I learn new songs almost every week as well. Come on out!

——

That’s it for this week. I can’t believe it’s already September. I hope you are healthy and happy. 

Best always,

Tom

——

Details this week:

Who: Tom Munch 

What:  playing for the Senior Safari

Where:  Pueblo Zoo

When:  Wednesday, September 10, 10:30-1

Who:  Tom Munch 

What:  playing and singing an online concert of animal songs

Where:  facebook.com/tom.munch and tommunch.com/online-concerts  

When:  Wednesday, September 10, 7-8:45 pm mountain time

Who:  Tom Munch 

What:  playing and singing an online concert of favorites and requests 

Where:  facebook.com/tom.munch and tommunch.com/online-concerts  

When:  Sunday, September 14, 7-8:45 pm mountain time 

Summer's End

Well, another summer is drawing to a close. I still really enjoy the summer season although I do feel worn out often with so much more work that the season brings. I love “rising to the occasion” and pushing myself every summer though. There’s something invigorating about all the summer adventures, and I’m amazed at the well of energy that always seems to be available to me when I need it. Fall offers me the chance to slow down, and I cherish that along with the beauty of the earth as it goes to rest for winter. This last hurrah of summer over the Labor Day weekend has always been bittersweet, and I have written of it annually. I go back to childhood memories of walking a dried-up lake after a summer of irrigation or one last trip to a lake with my dad for a sailboat race. There is a sadness and also a sigh of relief on Labor Day that has always been there for me. I love it, but it also puts me deep into myself. Of course I love to go into deep thought and reflection. It is a meditative state that brings peace and relaxation. I guess overall that’s how I see the Labor Day weekend and the coming Fall. Happy Labor Day!

——

What have I been up to?

I had 8 senior facilities last week, and they were all very rewarding. Amazingly one had a Covid outbreak, and it’s something they’ve been dealing with since June. I even rescheduled them back in June because of it. Now they’re almost in the clear.

My Wednesday online show was songs of 1964, and it was a crazy show with the show’s online feed crashing at one point that sent me into a tizzy trying to figure out how to get back on. I finally was able to reconnect with a different browser, but it took several minutes, and I lost a couple people who never were able to get back on the show. The songs were a blast though, and there’s so many more left so we’ll do more 1964 songs this Wednesday. 

Friday night at Garden of the Gods Club was a wonderful night with appreciative folks and beautiful weather. I had one patron at the bar who was a guitar player, and he had lots of requests and fun memories to share.

My Sunday online show was favorites and requests, and there were some really good ones. Every one of these nights turns into something special.

——

What am I up to this week?

I have 8 senior facilities this week, and they should all be great opportunities to share music and encouragement. I say it often, but this is a great privilege to play for these folks, and I never take it for granted.

My Wednesday online show 7-8:45 mountain time will be more songs of 1964, and I know this will be a blast. I still can’t believe how many songs I’ve learned from 1964 over the years. It was a truly great year for music. Come on out if you can!

Friday night I should be back at the Garden of the Gods Club in the Grand View Restaurant. The schedule hasn’t been confirmed yet, so if you want to come you might want to check with me before you make a reservation. I should know by later today. Reservations are at 888-994-3156 or you can usually sit at the bar or the small tables near me in the bar.

My Sunday online show 7-8:45 mountain time will be favorites and requests as always, and I really look forward to it. We always have such a good time, and my Munch Bunch audience is so supportive of me and each other. You’re always welcome!

——

That’s it for this week. I hope you have a nice Labor Day and transition into Fall.

Best always,

Tom

——

Details this week:

Who:  Tom Munch 

What:  playing and singing an online concert of 1964 songs

Where:  facebook.com/tom.munch and tommunch.com/online-concerts  

When:  Wednesday, September 3, 7-8:45 pm mountain time

Who:  Tom Munch 

What:  playing instrumental guitar tunes

Where:  Garden of the Gods Resort and Club in the Grand View Restaurant. 888-994-3156

When:  Friday, September 5, 6-9 pm 

Who:  Tom Munch 

What:  playing and singing an online concert of favorites and requests 

Where:  facebook.com/tom.munch and tommunch.com/online-concerts  

When:  Sunday, September 7, 7-8:45 pm mountain time 

Time of Change

I’m doing songs from 1964 on Wednesday, and I’m struck by how much that year marked a real change in the world. Of course, President Kennedy was assassinated in November of 1963, and that marked an end to some of the innocence the country felt at the beginning of the 1960s. In 1964 so many things happened. President Johnson signed the Civil Rights Act into law.  The Beatles appeared on the Ed Sullivan show to start the British Invasion.  The  US increased its involvement in Vietnam.  China made its first nuclear test. The most powerful earthquake ever in the US struck in Alaska. Sidney Poitier won the first Oscar for an African American. The surgeon general first said that smoking was hazardous to people’s health. Cassius Clay beat Sonny Liston to become heavyweight champion. Young men burned their draft cards to mark the first resistance to the Vietnam War. The movie “Mary Poppins” came out. The Moog synthesizer was introduced. The Berkeley Free Speech Movement started. The Catholic Church passed Vatican II. The Ford Mustang came out, and Martin Luther King, Jr. was awarded the Noble Peace Prize - just to name a few important things. Looking through the music of that year there was definitely the start of a harder edge to the music with more blues and rock ’n’ roll and less melodic pop. The charts were dominated by the Beatles, but there were also hits by the Animals, the Beach Boys, Roy Orbison, Martha and the Vandellas, and the Kinks. I was hearing this music as a kid and also hearing the news on the radio and TV, and there was definitely an energy that couldn’t be denied. As a baby boomer I think it was one of the most important times of the last century. At least it shaped what the US would become, and the music influenced me in ways that I still feel. I’m looking forward to playing a bunch of it!

——

What have I been up to?

I had 15 senior facilities last week, and even though it seems like a lot of shows, it didn’t feel like it. Every one was a lot of fun with great tunes and big smiles.

My Wednesday online show was songs about the mountains, and it was a wonderful evening of tunes and friends. Mountain songs are some of my very favorites.

Friday night was a little different at Garden of the Gods Club. They had an event going on outside  on the lawn and in the restaurant, so they had me play outside under an umbrella by the Rocks lounge with soft rain coming down. It turned out to be really cool with some very kind and generous folks listening on the patio. Since it was for the lounge I got to sing instead of just playing instrumental guitar tunes, and I really enjoyed that.

My Sunday online show was favorites and requests as always, and there were so many great requests and sweet songs. It was more of a mellow night that was very gratifying. I love this group.

——

What am I up to this week?

I have 8 senior facilities this week, and I know they will all be really special. I love playing for these folks so much.

My Wednesday online show 7-8:45 mountain time will be songs of 1964 as I mentioned above. Do a search for songs of 1964 and you’ll see how much fun it’s going to be that night with so many great songs. Come on out!

Friday night 6-9 I’m back at the Grand View Restaurant at Garden of the Gods Club playing instrumental guitar tunes. After last week’s different setup I look forward to playing guitar tunes again. You’re always welcome there. The view is unbelievable, and the food’s pretty tasty too. Reservations are at 888-994-3156 or you can usually sit at the bar or the small tables near me in the bar.

My Sunday online show 7-8:45 mountain time will be favorites and requests as always, and it’s a night I look forward to every time with so many good folks and so much good music requested. Being that the next day is a holiday for Labor Day I think it’ll be a crazy night. Come on out!

——

That’s it for this week. I always think of this as the last week of summer, and that makes me a little sad, but it also means that we are headed towards my favorite season - Fall!

Best,

Tom

——

Details this week:

Who:  Tom Munch 

What:  playing and singing an online concert of songs from 1964

Where:  facebook.com/tom.munch and tommunch.com/online-concerts  

When:  Wednesday, August 27, 7-8:45 pm mountain time

Who:  Tom Munch 

What:  playing instrumental guitar tunes

Where:  Garden of the Gods Resort and Club in the Grand View Restaurant 888-994-3156

When:  Friday, August 29, 6-9 pm 

Who:  Tom Munch 

What:  playing and singing an online concert of favorites and requests 

Where:  facebook.com/tom.munch and tommunch.com/online-concerts  

When:  Sunday, August 31, 7-8:45 pm mountain time 

I try to make my emails interesting and informative, but if you ever want to be removed from my mailing list, just reply and ask to be removed - no offense.

Time of Change / Wednesday Online 1964, Friday Garden of the Gods Club, Sunday Online Favorites and Requests

Hello,

I’m doing songs from 1964 on Wednesday, and I’m struck by how much that year marked a real change in the world. Of course President Kennedy was assassinated in November of 1963, and that marked an end to some of the innocence the country felt at the beginning of the 1960s. In 1964 so many things happened - President Johnson signed the Civil Rights Act into law, The Beatles appeared on the Ed Sullivan show to start the British Invasion, The US increased it’s involvement in Vietnam, China made its first nuclear test, the most powerful earthquake ever in the US struck in Alaska, Sidney Poitier won the first Oscar for an African American, the surgeon general first said that smoking was hazardous to people’s health, Cassius Clay beat Sonny Liston to become heavyweight champion, young men burned their draft cards to mark the first resistance to the Vietnam war, the movie “Mary Poppins” came out, the Moog synthesizer was introduced, the Berkeley Free Speech Movement started, the Catholic church passed Vatican 2, the Ford Mustang came out, and Martin Luther King, Jr. was awarded the Noble Peace Prize - just to name a few important things. Looking through the music of that year there was definitely the start of a harder edge to the music with more blues and rock ’n’ roll and less melodic pop. The charts were dominated by the Beatles, but there were also hits by the Animals, the Beach Boys, Roy Orbison, Martha and the Vandellas, and the Kinks. I was hearing this music as a kid and also hearing the news on the radio and TV, and there was definitely an energy that couldn’t be denied. As a baby boomer I think it was one of the most important times of the last century. At least it shaped what the US would become, and the music influenced me in ways that I still feel. I’m looking forward to playing a bunch of it!

——

What have I been up to?

I had 15 senior facilities last week, and even though it seems like a lot shows, it didn’t feel like it. Every one was a lot of fun with great tunes and big smiles.

My Wednesday online show was songs about the mountains, and it was a wonderful evening of tunes and friends. Mountain songs are some of my very favorites.

Friday night was a little different at Garden of the Gods Club. They had an event going on outside  on the lawn and in the restaurant, so they had me play outside under an umbrella by the Rocks lounge with soft rain coming down. It turned out to be really cool with some very kind and generous folks listening on the patio. Since it was for the lounge I got to sing instead of just playing instrumental guitar tunes, and I really enjoyed that.

My Sunday online show was favorites and requests as always, and there were so many great requests and sweet songs. It was more of a mellow night that was very gratifying. I love this group.

——

What am I up to this week?

I have 8 senior facilities this week, and I know they will all be really special. I love playing for these folks so much.

My Wednesday online show 7-8:45 mountain time will be songs of 1964 as I mentioned above. Do a search for songs of 1964 and you’ll see how much fun it’s going to be that night with so many great songs. Come on out!

Friday night 6-9 I’m back at the Grand View Restaurant at Garden of the Gods Club playing instrumental guitar tunes. After last week’s different setup I look forward to playing guitar tunes again. You’re always welcome there. The view is unbelievable, and the food’s pretty tasty too. Reservations are at 888-994-3156 or you can usually sit at the bar or the small tables near me in the bar.

My Sunday online show 7-8:45 mountain time will be favorites and requests as always, and it’s a night I look forward to every time with so many good folks and so much good music requested. Beings that the next day is a holiday for Labor Day I think it’ll be a crazy night. Come on out!

——

That’s it for this week. I always think of this as the last week of summer, and that makes me a little sad, but it also means that we are headed towards my favorite season - Fall!

Best,

Tom

——

Details this week:

Who:  Tom Munch 

What:  playing and singing an online concert of Mountain songs

Where:  facebook.com/tom.munch and tommunch.com/online-concerts  

When:  Wednesday, August 27, 7-8:45 pm mountain time

Who:  Tom Munch 

What:  playing instrumental guitar tunes

Where:  Garden of the Gods Resort and Club in the Grand View Restaurant. 888-994-3156

When:  Friday, August 29, 6-9 pm 

Who:  Tom Munch 

What:  playing and singing an online concert of favorites and requests 

Where:  facebook.com/tom.munch and tommunch.com/online-concerts  

When:  Sunday, August 31, 7-8:45 pm mountain time 

Mountains

I’m planning a show on mountains today for my Wednesday online show while I’m listening to a book about John Mackay, an Irishman who became one of the richest men in the world in the  California and Nevada mountains during the Gold Rush in the mid-1800s. I mention him because I can only imagine what the Sierra Nevada mountains looked like in those days. I love the mountains and I always have. I was exposed to them when I was a baby and my family would spend time in the summers at my grandfolks’ cabins in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains in New Mexico. The mountains were magical and powerful to me - full of history and mystery. I fancied myself a mountain man or a miner roughing it in those mountains in the days of Kit Carson and John Bridger. Their beauty and their sheer forbidding nature captivated me. I would explore on my own for hours as I bushwhacked and drank in all the sights and smells around me. The first time I got to actually climb a mountain was with my family at probably 5 or 7 years of age. We made a family backpacking trip to climb the highest mountain in New Mexico - Wheeler Peak at 13,167 feet. We actually passed by Wheeler Peak on that trip to climb the peak next to it called Old Mike - mistaking that mountain for Wheeler which had a much gentler summit. We didn’t make that mistake again, and I figure I’ve climbed Wheeler almost a dozen times over the years. But I’ve thrilled at the mountains everywhere I’ve encountered them. I can never resist wanting to climb to the top (unless it’s a very rocky, technical climb requiring ropes and climbing gear). There is an inexplicable awe and wonder when you stand at the top of a mountain and gaze far off into the distance below. And the view of the mountain from its base is easily as awesome. And that’s why I love singing songs about mountains. They just have a draw that is irresistible.

——

What have I been up to?

I had 8 senior facilities last week, and  thoroughly enjoyed singing and playing for them all. They really got into it - especially where I had birthdays with folks near and over 100 years old.

Wednesday I played a party up in the mountains that was beyond beautiful! The Cuchara Hermosa gals are the best!

Friday I played a dance in Cuchara with my bassist friend Dennis Mills that was packed with good folks who danced up a storm. It was the best dance we’ve ever played.

Saturday night I played the Pueblo Riverwalk, and it rained on me at about the third song and got my equipment pretty wet. (I should have planned for that.) No worries though. I packed up the equipment, and it stopped raining shortly thereafter. So I just played unplugged and acoustic for the remainder of the time for some good old friends who came out to hear me. It turned into a beautiful evening. Big thanks to everyone who came out!

My Sunday online show was very gratifying with some great requests and new tunes. I never know what these shows will be like, and this one did not disappoint. It’s great to be part of such a wonderful community.

——

What am I up to this week?

I have 15 senior facilities this week, and I know they’ll all be full of laughs and smiling faces with great tunes. I love playing for these folks so much.

My Wednesday online show 7-8:45 mountain time will be mountain songs as I wrote of above. There are so many great songs that express that wonder I talked about, and I can’t wait to play them. Please come out if you can!

Friday I’m back at the Garden of the Gods Club in the Grand View Restaurant playing instrumental guitar tunes. I enjoy these evenings a bunch, and I’d love to play for you too if you’d like to join me. Reservations are at 888-994-3156 or you can usually sit at the bar or the small tables near me in the bar.

My Sunday online show 7-8:45 mountain time will be favorites and requests as always, and these evenings are always so worthwhile. Come on out!

——

That’s it for this week. I hope you are healthy and happy these last two weeks of summer.

Best always,

Tom

Details this week:

Who:  Tom Munch 

What:  playing and singing an online concert of Mountain songs

Where:  facebook.com/tom.munch and tommunch.com/online-concerts  

When:  Wednesday, August 20, 7-8:45 pm mountain time

Who:  Tom Munch 

What:  playing instrumental guitar tunes

Where:  Garden of the Gods Resort and Club in the Grand View Restaurant. 888-994-3156

When:  Friday, August 22, 6-9 pm 

Who:  Tom Munch 

What:  playing and singing an online concert of favorites and requests 

Where:  facebook.com/tom.munch and tommunch.com/online-concerts  

When:  Sunday, August 24, 7-8:45 pm mountain time 

Owls

I just finished a book on owls called, “What an Owl Knows” by Jennifer Ackerman, and it happened that the great horned owls came back to our trees just as I was finishing the book. We have had birds of prey winter in our trees almost every year for the past 10 years or so. We either have Cooper’s hawks or great horned owls. They both fascinate us. The Cooper’s hawks are small hawks who hunt birds and rodents. The great horned owls hunt the same as well as cats and small dogs. They both scare away the song birds, quail, and doves who used to frequent our house and for who we used to put out bird seed, suet cakes, and water. That’s okay although we do miss the small birds. Owls are amazing to watch and live with. They leave pellets and bones around on the lawn and roof that are a little macabre sometimes. When they fly over our heads they are nearly silent and always a surprise. They don’t usually interact with us other than staring at us when we walk under them in a tree or flying off if we come too close. In the book the author would even have some species of owl who were annoyed who would fly over and knock off a person’s hat or thump an arm as they flew by. Typically we will have a pair that we assume are the same couple that have been living in our trees or in another tree a mile or so away where we walk often. They will have one owl born to them each year that we don’t see until it is nearly full grown and able to fly. The young owls don’t hoot. They make a weird screech that seems to say, “Help me, I don’t know what to do.” We often see one or both of the adults with the young owl. I saw the young owl yesterday with one of the adults in our trees. The young one was screeching while the adult just watched. They are so majestic and also kind of menacing with their piercing stare. It is a joy to have them around. It’ll be interesting to see whether it will be owls or hawks wintering in our trees this year.

——

What have I been up to?

I had 9 senior facilities last week, and I played a huge variety of songs including some of the boat songs I played for my Wednesday online show. I enjoyed entertaining and encouraging them all.

My Wednesday online show last week was playing sailing and boat songs, and there were so many good ones. I had a nice crowd who were very engaged.

Thursday was the last barbecue of the season for the Yellow Pine. It was a packed night with lots of folks I knew, and the weather was good even though it stormed a bit to the north. I’ll miss these Thursday evenings in the old barn. It was a great season!

Friday I played instrumental guitar tunes at the Garden of the Gods Club for the diners. It was a warm night with lots of interesting folks. I played a lot of moon songs to honor the full moon.

Saturday afternoon I played a family reunion at the Yellow Pine for a nice family. It’s fun to play these kinds of gigs for good folks.

My Sunday online show was a great night of tunes for a good audience of friends and new folks. There were some really interesting requests including some new tunes for me from Van Morrison, Neil Young, and Zac Brown.

——

What am I up to this week?

I have 8 senior facilities this week, and I think I’ll be playing more songs for August events like the fair and kids returning to school. I was surprised to see a school bus this morning on our walk. It seems like school starts earlier every year.

Wednesday I’m playing a private party in Cuchara for the Hermosa women’s group. I’ve been playing for this group of wonderful women for almost 30 years. 

Friday night 7-9 I’m playing a dance with my bass-player friend Dennis Mills at the Cuchara Community Center. We have played several of these dances over the years, and it’s always a really good time with everyone coming out for a night of friendship and dancing. It’s free admission, and you just can’t beat the inviting atmosphere and good vibes in the old community building. I’d love to have you there.

Saturday night 7-8:30 I’m playing at the Pueblo Riverwalk at the north end of the riverwalk by the big fountain past Brues Alehouse. They call it the Gateway Stage since it’s in the Gateway Plaza where they have all the western statues of the Goodnight-Loving Sculpture Trail and the Chuckwagon Play Area. It’s a beautiful area, and the nights can be pretty special. I’d love to have you come out to this as well if you’re in the Pueblo area.

My Sunday online show 7-8:45 mountain time will be favorites and requests as always, and I know it’ll be a good night of fun and meaningful songs. It ALWAYS is. Come on out!

——

That’s it for this week. Summer is winding down quickly, and I’m gracefully if not sorely landing. I hope you are healthy and happy.

Best always,

Tom

——

Details this week:

Who:  Tom Munch and Dennis Mills

What:  playing a free dance of country and rock and roll

Where:  Cuchara Community Center, 16500 State Highway 12, Cuchara, CO

When:  Friday, August 15, 7-9 pm

Who:  Tom Munch 

What:  playing and singing a free show

Where:  Pueblo Riverwalk Gateway Stage in the Gateway Plaza, Pueblo, CO

When:  Saturday, August 16, 7-8:30 pm

Who:  Tom Munch 

What:  playing and singing an online concert of favorites and requests 

Where:  facebook.com/tom.munch and tommunch.com/online-concerts  

When:  Sunday, August 17, 7-8:45 pm mountain time 

Feeling Free

My show on Wednesday will be sailing and boats, and those things represent adventure and freedom, so I thought I’d write about feeling free. Most of my life (and I imagine yours too) has been watching the pendulum swing in my life from doing things that stem from responsibility or obligation to those things that come from a desire to feel free. Many times during my day I do things that are little moments of freedom within my obligations. For instance, I’ll be going to a job that I know will be difficult, but I enjoy the act of driving and the chance to listen to something I love on the drive. And while I’m walking in the morning for exercise and health I am also doing something kind and loving for and with my dog Beau and am enjoying the sunrise and taking photos I can share with others to brighten their day. Meanwhile I am loving the feeling of being in my body and breathing the fresh air as I become part of the natural world all around me. Later I am doing some household chore because I know it will give me the free time later to enjoy a movie and a bowl of popcorn. These are small things, and I also see that being able to take a vacation or a trip brings me that same feeling of freedom in a much bigger way. That chance to experience the wider world without my home worries is marvelous. One of my favorite songs of the 1960s was a song by the Monkees called “I Wanna Be Free”. It was a very simple song that Davy Jones sang, but it reflected that yearning that we all feel. It was mostly a love song, but that wasn’t the part that grabbed me. It was the words about being free like the birds, the waves, and the wind that enchanted me. So on Wednesday I’ll do songs about sailing and boats - capturing that wanderlust and desire for freedom that we all feel.

——

What have I been up to?

I had just 5 senior facilities to play for last week, but I loved playing for every one of them. I say it often, but the chance to take these folks on a journey through song is so gratifying.

My Wednesday online show was playing campfire songs, and it was just as much fun as I thought it would be. I had my campfire-scented candle to put me in the mood with a mountain campfire scene behind me, and it was a blast. I think everyone who came out really got into it.

Thursday was a packed barn at the Yellow Pine Barbecue, and it was so good to see so many familiar and new faces. There had been a big rainstorm the day before that had washed rock and logs over the road, and so it was kind of exciting wondering if there would be another storm on Thursday that would strand me up there for a while. There was a storm but it wasn’t that bad. It was a really fun night!

Friday night I was back at the Garden of the Gods Club to play guitar tunes for the diners. Every night is a little different up there, and I got to see some old friends again and play some unique tunes.

Saturday I had a last-minute surprise when I was asked if I could play with the Atomic Fireballs (my old band) for a gig at the VFW in Penrose. I took them up on it, and it was a great time and something I haven’t done in quite some time. None of the original band members were in the band except for one person who sang with us occasionally, but everyone who did play was an old acquaintance or person I had heard great things about. I’m not saying I want to start playing with a band on a regular basis, but it was sure fun getting to sit in and to play some lead guitar with old and new friends. Thanks, everyone!

My Sunday online show was great too. I was a little tired, but I had a good crew of folks who gave me lots of requests and energy. I love this group!

——

What am I up to this week?

I have 9 senior facilities this week, and it will be a good time playing songs for August and all this month brings. I usually do a produce or fair or end of summer theme for shows in August at my facilities.

My Wednesday online show 7-8:45 mountain time will be songs about sailing and boats as I wrote above. I’m so entranced when I am out on the water being driven by the wind and the waves. This will be a sweet show of freedom. Come on out!

Thursday night 6:30-8 I’m back at the Yellow Pine for the last barbecue of the season. It’s always a little bittersweet ending another season of barbecues up there. I enjoy them so much. I expect it’s already sold out, but if you want to come call 719-742-3528 to see if there are any spots left and make a reservation now.

Friday night 6-9 I’m once again at the Garden of the Gods Club in the Grand View Restaurant playing instrumental guitar tunes. I’ll probably try some new tunes as I read the crowd. I almost played Ozzy Osborne’s “Crazy Train” as a mellow instrumental last week. It’s so much fun to surprise the diners.

Saturday night I have a private party that’s a family reunion that I’m looking forward to.

My Sunday online show 7-8:45 mountain time will be favorites and requests as per usual. This is often the best gig of the week with interesting tunes and great folks in attendance. Come on out!

——

That’s it for this week. I’m still riding the wave of summer, and it’s about to deposit me on the beach - hopefully gracefully. I hope you’re having a good summer and are healthy and happy.

All the best always,

Tom

——

Details this week:

Who:  Tom Munch 

What:  playing and singing an online concert of sailing and boat songs

Where:  facebook.com/tom.munch and tommunch.com/online-concerts  

When:  Wednesday, August 6, 7-8:45 pm mountain time

Who:  Tom Munch

What:  playing & singing at the barbeque

Where:  Yellow Pine Guest Ranch, Cuchara. 719-742-3528

When:  Thursday, August 7, 6:30-8 pm

Who:  Tom Munch 

What:  playing instrumental guitar tunes

Where:  Garden of the Gods Resort and Club in the Grand View Restaurant. 888-994-3156

When:  Friday, August 8, 6-9 pm 

Who:  Tom Munch 

What:  playing and singing an online concert of favorites and requests 

Where:  facebook.com/tom.munch and tommunch.com/online-concerts  

When:  Sunday, August 10, 7-8:45 pm mountain time 

Campfires

I’m playing campfire songs for my Wednesday night online show, and it’s making me very nostalgic for all the campfires I’ve played at over the years. Starting in high school I began playing around the fire for all kinds of events from church camp to Boy Scouts to hanging out with friends. Anyone who has stared into a campfire knows the magic that humans have enjoyed over the millennia around a fire. It brings warmth and curiosity and even danger that thrills our spirit. Music around a campfire has a mystique as well - adding its own ancient draw that is so irresistible. It’s intimate and usually acoustical in nature, and that works its way into us in a very satisfying way. Because of the need for warmth and light, a campfire is usually enjoyed in the evening when things are done for the day and we can enter a more reflective and thoughtful mindset. I’m not saying there aren’t some funny and upbeat moments of dancing and frivolity too, but for the most part as the fire turns from flames to embers we settle down into a beautiful zone where the songs have real impact. I love this! There are a lot of songs that talk about sitting around the campfire from the likes of John Denver to many country artists. It’s just a grand shared experience that so many people cherish. So I’ll share some of these meaningful songs as well as some of the sing-along songs that most of us grew up as we sang around campfires. It’ll connect us to our memories and our ancestors who stared into fires just the same way.

——

What have I been up to?

I had 11 senior facilities last week, and I enjoyed every one of them. It’s just great to get the chance to provide some encouragement and community for folks who really need it. I take is as a privilege.

My Wednesday night online show was songs from 1955, and there were some great ones I got the chance to play. I had a really good audience that was getting into it too. The night was full of songs of early rock and roll and country that shaped the decades to come.

Thursday night at the Yellow Pine Barbecue was a little smaller crowd, but it was a beautiful night of dancing and music that folks really enjoyed. I had several good friends there.

Friday night I played the Grand View Restaurant at the Garden of the Gods Club, and it was so much fun. I had some family and some old friends come out to hear me, and I so enjoyed seeing them and spending time with them. There was even a surprise wedding proposal out on the lawn that was very endearing to see.

My Sunday night online show was favorites and requests as usual, and I had another really good group of folks who made some great requests and special moments. I did a couple Ozzy songs as well as Golden Earring and Connie Francis to Alan Bergman to honor those musicians who have recently passed. It was a good night.

——

What am I up to this week?

I have only 5 senior facilities this week since it’s a rare 5th week of the month from Tuesday on when I don’t have as many monthly repeating dates. That’ll give me time to rehearse for a couple gigs coming up and also to get some property work done. I’ll definitely enjoy the folks I do get to play for.

My Wednesday online show 7-8:45 mountain time will be campfire songs as I mentioned above. This is going to be so much fun. Please come out and celebrate singing around the fire.

Thursday night 6:30-8 I’m back at the Yellow Pine Guest Ranch for the weekly barbecue. There is only this week and next week to enjoy this wonderful old barn and barbecue with my music, so if you were thinking of coming then make your plans today. It is such a good time in such a beautiful place. Call 719-742-3528 to make a reservation now. Deadline for reservations is Tuesday at noon.

Friday night 6-9 I’m back at the Garden of the Gods Club int the Grand View Restaurant. This past week the weather was perfect, and they opened up all the glass doors so folks were able to enjoy the outdoors even inside. It was a night to remember. I look forward to every week to see what kind of night it will be. I’d love to have you there as well if great food and a beautiful view with my guitar music sound good to you. Reservations are at 888-994-3156 or you can usually sit at the bar or the small table near me in the bar.

My Sunday online show 7-8:45 mountain time will be favorites and requests as always, and every night is engaging and exciting as folks banter in the chat and I fill their requests. I’d love to have you there as well.

——

That’s it for this week. I’m enjoying every second of the summer even with the sweltering heat. I hope you are healthy and happy.

Best always,

Tom

——

Details this week:

Who:  Tom Munch 

What:  playing and singing an online concert of campfire songs

Where:  facebook.com/tom.munch and tommunch.com/online-concerts  

When:  Wednesday, July 30, 7-8:45 pm mountain time

Who:  Tom Munch

What:  playing & singing at the barbeque

Where:  Yellow Pine Guest Ranch, Cuchara. 719-742-3528

When:  Thursday, July 31, 6:30-8 pm

Who:  Tom Munch 

What:  playing instrumental guitar tunes

Where:  Garden of the Gods Resort and Club in the Grand View Restaurant. 888-994-3156

When:  Friday, August 1, 6-9 pm 

Who:  Tom Munch 

What:  playing and singing an online concert of favorites and requests 

Where:  facebook.com/tom.munch and tommunch.com/online-concerts  

When:  Sunday, August 3, 7-8:45 pm mountain time

1955

I’m doing my show on Wednesday with songs from 1955. We tend to think of this year as the start of rock and roll with songs like “Rock Around the Clock” and the beginnings of modern American culture with the founding of McDonald’s and Disneyland. It’s also the year the James Dean died and when Rosa Parks made her famous bus ride. I wasn’t alive yet, but I know that those events shaped my life in many ways. Rock and roll has been a big part of my life, and everyone I knew could sing the words to the Big Mac jingle and the Mouseketeers’ song. I play a lot of songs from that year, and I’ve always tried to connect with the emotion and the emphasis that those songs carried. There was an optimism in that music since it was so new, but it was also driven by the blues that came out of hardship. The music was often very simple - “three chords and the truth” as many still say. The form was often built on 12-bar blues with a simple three line verse and sometimes a chorus. Many songs had a driving rhythm, and they were mostly based on a small combo built on the newer instruments of electric guitar, electric bass, a drum kit, sometimes a piano and a saxophone or other brass instrument. It was exciting especially for the young people of that day, just like previous generations had their newer music that was exciting and revolutionary. That enthusiasm brought out new dances and everything we all know from that era. I look forward to playing this engaging music of 1955!

What have I been up to?

I had 11 senior facilities last week, and I enjoyed every one. There was a midsummer energy to all of them that was pretty cool.

My Wednesday online show was doing songs I’ve never done for my online shows, and there were some really good ones. I had a really good turnout as well of folks who enjoyed it.

Thursday night was another full night at the Yellow Pine Barbecue. I got to see some old friends, and there was a great energy there too.

Friday was an odd night at Garden of the Gods Club. There was just a different feeling to the night with storms in the air and unique personalities. It’s all good though.

My Sunday online show was really busy - probably because I had been off the previous Sunday for the party I played. There were some great requests and a lot of virtual smiles. I love this group of folks!

——

What am I up to this week?

I have 11 senior facilities again this week, and I think I’ll be doing a variety of tunes again for them. I like to choose a theme at the beginning of each show and then run with it.

My Wednesday online show 7-8:45 mountain time will be songs of 1955. I think this will turn out to be a night to remember. I’ll play a bunch more rock and roll and a few country tunes on electric guitar with fun backdrop. Come on out!

Thursday night 6:30-8 I’m back at the Yellow Pine Barbecue. These nights have been going so well, and it’s such a neat environment in the old barn with the smell of the pines all around. I’d love to have you in the audience as well if you like good barbecue and my music. Call 719-742-3528 to make a reservation now. Deadline for reservations is Tuesday at noon.

Friday night 6-9 I’m at Garden of the Gods Club in the Grand View Restaurant to play instrumental guitar tunes for the diners. I’ve really fallen into a sweet combo of interesting songs and improvisations for these sets. I’d love to have you hear them. Reservations are at 888-994-3156 or you can usually sit at the bar or the small table near me in the bar.

My Sunday online show 7-8:45 mountain time will be favorites and requests as always, and I’m sure there’ll be some new tunes this week. I’ve been working on some. I’d love to have you there too, and it’s so easy to just pop on either on Facebook or on my website. The links are below in my weekly details.

——

That’s it for this week. I love the summer, and I haven’t fallen off the wave yet although I came close after working 8 and more hours in the yard this week. I hope you’re healthy and happy.

Best always,

Tom

——

Details this week:

Who:  Tom Munch 

What:  playing and singing an online concert of songs from 1955

Where:  facebook.com/tom.munch and tommunch.com/online-concerts  

When:  Wednesday, July 23, 7-8:45 pm mountain time

Who:  Tom Munch

What:  playing & singing at the barbeque

Where:  Yellow Pine Guest Ranch, Cuchara. 719-742-3528

When:  Thursday, July 24, 6:30-8 pm

Who:  Tom Munch 

What:  playing instrumental guitar tunes

Where:  Garden of the Gods Resort and Club in the Grand View Restaurant. 888-994-3156

When:  Friday, July 25, 6-9 pm 

Who:  Tom Munch 

What:  playing and singing an online concert of favorites and requests 

Where:  facebook.com/tom.munch and tommunch.com/online-concerts  

When:  Sunday, July 27, 7-8:45 pm mountain time 

Friendship

I played a combination anniversary, birthday, wedding reception event for good friends over the weekend, and I was very attentive to the friendships I could see all around me. Many of them had lasted many decades, and I could feel the common bond and love that they shared. A glance was all that was necessary between them to express times they had shared of both pain and joy. It was a pleasure and an honor to see, and it gave me insight into what matters so much in this life - the sharing and caring for each other. I don’t mean to sound too mushy, but those are the real things that count as we age. One of my favorite songs of late was written by Kieran Kane and Jamie O’Hara called “When We’re Gone, Long Gone”. The Chorus goes, 

“When we’re gone, long gone, the only thing that will have mattered, 

is the love that we shared, and the way that we cared,

when we’re gone, long gone.” 

We’ve all heard it often. Family and friends are all that last in life. All the possessions and money, fame and accomplishment just don’t bring happiness. We want belonging and a chance to give. I wrote about giving a few years back. When we give we prime the pump of love and happiness for ourselves as well as others. Instead of draining ourselves, we get more energy to give even more. This doesn’t mean that we don’t need downtime to ourselves too, but it is an encouragement to give freely to others as often as we can. Friends understand this. They’ve been through times of selfishness and struggle on the path to learning how to give to each other more openly. There is an earned mutual trust that fuels their togetherness. It also supersedes all the baggage of culture and class and even religion. Somehow friends just know that all fades away when we do like the song says - love and care.

——

What have I been up to?

I had 9 senior facilities last week, and they were all pretty special. I did traveling songs for most of them, and we reminisced about family trips and days gone by. It was very nice.

My Wednesday online show was doing traveling songs, and it was a really good time with lots of folks tuning in. I have such a love for traveling, and the songs really capture this.

Thursday was another busy and fun time at the Yellow Pine Barbecue in Cuchara. There were several good friends and acquaintances in attendance, and it was a beautiful night. The food was extra good.

Friday I played a stormy and busy night at the Garden of the Gods Club. There was a bachelorette party and another big table of colleagues that had the place hopping.

Saturday and Sunday I played for the folks I wrote about in my paragraph above who were celebrating an anniversary, birthday, and wedding over two days. Saturday was a multiple-performer concert that I opened up with a few favorite tunes and eventually with several of us singing “With a Little Help from My Friends”. Sunday was a house “barn” concert that I got to play solo. It was such a wonderful time as evidenced by the inspiration for what I wrote above. A big “Thank You!” to all who put it together, especially Richard and Pam!

——

What am I up to this week?

I have 11 senior facilities this week, and I’m sure we’ll have some great moments at all of them. There is such an affinity I feel for these folks.

My Wednesday online show 7-8:45 mountain time will be songs I’ve never done for my online shows. I have such a good time looking through my list and picking songs I love that I don’t get to do often. There will be some surprises and a lot of good tunes. Come on out!

Thursday 6:30-8 I’m back at the Yellow Pine for the barbecue. There are only 4 more of these special evenings in the old barn with lots of smiles and music and good barbecue. I’d love to see you there. Call 719-742-3528 to make a reservation now. Deadline for reservations is Tuesday at noon.

Friday 6-9 I’m back at Garden of the Gods Club in the Grand View Restaurant noodling on the guitar for the diners. I have a great time picking well-known and obscure songs and sometimes even improvising. Come on out if you’d like some great food and a beautiful view. Reservations are at 888-994-3156 or you can usually sit at the bar or the small table near me in the bar.

My Sunday online show 7-8:45 mountain time will be favorites and requests as always, and since I didn’t do a Sunday show last week I expect this one to be extra good. I have several new songs I’m working on. I’d love to have you in my audience.

——

That’s it for this week. The summer is flying by, and it just keeps getting better. I hope you are healthy and happy and have good friendships to cherish.

Best always,

Tom

——

Details this week:

Who:  Tom Munch 

What:  playing and singing an online concert of songs I’ve never done at my online shows

Where:  facebook.com/tom.munch and tommunch.com/online-concerts  

When:  Wednesday, July 16, 7-8:45 pm mountain time

Who:  Tom Munch

What:  playing & singing at the barbeque

Where:  Yellow Pine Guest Ranch, Cuchara. 719-742-3528

When:  Thursday, July 17, 6:30-8 pm

Who:  Tom Munch 

What:  playing instrumental guitar tunes

Where:  Garden of the Gods Resort and Club in the Grand View Restaurant. 888-994-3156

When:  Friday, July 18, 6-9 pm 

Who:  Tom Munch 

What:  playing and singing an online concert of favorites and requests 

Where:  facebook.com/tom.munch and tommunch.com/online-concerts  

When:  Sunday, July 20, 7-8:45 pm mountain time 

Travel

I love to travel, and I love to write about it. I feel so much a part of the land and of people I see when I travel. It’s the oneness that I always feel, but turned up to 10. I get such a charge out of the details of the land and the sky and the interactions with people. Seeing the prairies or the mesas and mountains with the vegetation growing on them with lovely cloud formations to getting to know someone new is rally enrapturing. It’s fun to approach every situation with an open mind and fresh eyes. It offers a chance to get outside yourself and be a different person – maybe even better – than you usually would be. And it lets you slow down and get lost in a situation. Of course it also lets you learn and expand your mind if you are visiting places like historical sites or museums. Iit lets you be a little irresponsible too. You don’t have to worry about paying bills or following up on calls or worrying about money for a short time. I guess I could say it’s partially escape and partially finding your bliss. I like both of those! And I don’t do it as often I’d like, but that gives me something to look forward to in retirement - if ever really do retire! How about you? What do you like about traveling? Tune in to my show on Wednesday to hear songs all about it.

What have I been up to? 

I had 9 senior facilities last week, and I did a mix of patriotic shows and just plain fun shows. I love these folks so much.

My Wednesday online show was blues songs for Independence Day. I had feared that it might be too dark a theme, but instead it was really lively and fun. Everyone seemed to enjoy it a lot.

Thursday at the Yellow Pine Barbecue was packed with folks. Everyone was ready to celebrate the holiday, and there was dancing and singing and lots of smiles.

Friday night I played instrumental tunes at the Garden of the Gods Club for a great group of folks including some good friends. I did some patriotic and some very sweet tunes too.

Saturday I played the Art in the Park holiday event in La Veta, and there were so many familiar faces and big smiles. It was a very beautiful day that I’ll remember long.

Saturday night I went to a concert in Red River, New Mexico, with an old friend that was a blast. It was Texas-favorite Ray Wylie Hubbard and his trio. I didn’t know very many of his tunes, but he really entertained and had the crowd singing along and stomping their feet. I get to go to so few concerts that I really drank this one in.

My Sunday online show was favorites and requests as always, and it was a good one. The holiday spirit really came out in everyone.

——

What am I up to this week?

I have 9 senior facilities this week, and I’m not sure what themes I’ll base my shows on, but I know it’ll be a meaningful and sweet time at every one.

My Wednesday online show 7-8:45 mountain time will be traveling songs as I wrote of above. There are some great songs on this theme, and I’d love to have you in the audience!

Thursday 6:30-10 I’m back at the Yellow Pine Guest Ranch for the barbecue, and I know it’ll be as good as ever. This is a really good time in this historical barn with great barbecue and my music. It’s well worth your time if you’re looking for a pretty spot and a nice evening out. Call 719-742-3528 to make a reservation now. Deadline for reservations is Tuesday at noon.

Friday 6-9 I’m at Garden of the Gods Club playing instrumental guitar tunes in the Grand View restaurant. I really enjoy noodling on great tunes for this, and I’d love to have you hear them. Reservations are at 888-994-3156 or you can usually sit at the bar or the small table near me in the bar.

Saturday I’m playing a private all-afternoon party with several other musicians in Guffey for several anniversaries and special events. It should be an afternoon to remember.

Sunday I’m back in Guffey playing a private house (barn) concert for the same folks I’m playing for on Saturday. These are old friends who played a meaningful part in my life, and I’m looking forward to playing for them. There won’t be an online show on Sunday because of this house concert. I’ll resume them the next Sunday.

——

That’s it for this week. It’ll be a whirlwind, but that’s what summer is all about! I hope you are healthy and happy.

Best always,

Tom

——

Details this week:

Who:  Tom Munch 

What:  playing and singing an online concert of traveling songs

Where:  facebook.com/tom.munch and tommunch.com/online-concerts  

When:  Wednesday, July 9, 7-8:45 pm mountain time

Who:  Tom Munch

What:  playing & singing at the barbeque

Where:  Yellow Pine Guest Ranch, Cuchara. 719-742-3528

When:  Thursday, July 10, 6:30-8 pm

Who:  Tom Munch 

What:  playing instrumental guitar tunes

Where:  Garden of the Gods Resort and Club in the Grand View Restaurant. 888-994-3156

When:  Friday, July 11, 6-9 pm