One "Bad" Christmas

I thought I’d share a story about one Christmas when I was a boy.  I tell this one sometimes at facilities I play for, so hopefully you haven’t heard it.  I must have been about 6 or 7 years old when this occurred.  I was not a particularly good kid.  I didn’t get into trouble in the neighborhood, but I was someone my mom would call “contrary” because I was belligerent and disobedient towards her and my dad.  I was the kid you wanted to smack at the store because I was always begging my mother for something.  She called it the “gimmes” - “Gimme this.” or “Gimme that.”  I think I was always doing something they told me not to because I sure remember a lot of spankings.  Anyway, one memorable Christmas I wanted something from Santa in the worst way.  I don’t remember what it was - probably a toy car or gun or something.  My parents must have decided together that they would teach me a lesson this Christmas because on Christmas morning after all the presents were unwrapped I was sitting there with a disappointed look on my face - not having gotten that one toy I wanted more than anything else.  My mother asked me why I looked so sad, and I told her that I didn’t get that one present that I wanted so much from Santa.  She asked me why I thought that was, and I said it was probably because I wasn’t a good boy that year.  She asked me if I thought I could be a better boy the next year, and I penitently said I would.  She then said that she heard Santa banging around in the front closet when he was at our house, and that maybe I should look and see if there were any more presents there.  I opened the door, and there was the thing I wanted so badly.  I was so happy!  Now do you think that I was a good boy the next year?  Probably not, but it made me at least think that year about being good, and the story has stayed with me for 50 years.

What have I been up to?

Magpies the Friday before last was great fun starting the Christmas season with everyone.  I don’t remember what we settled on for music eventually, but I’m sure there were a lot of ’60’s tunes.  We always seem to gravitate there - probably because I love the ’60’s so much.

The Council of State Governments event on the following Saturday was also great fun.  It was at the Broadmoor which was very difficult to get into and set up with new security measures since the last time I played there, but after I got through that it was fine with great state reps who wanted to have a good time.  I ended up going back to their hospitality room after the gig to play some more music.  Stellar folks!

Last Saturday I had a surprise birthday party for a special gal and her husband and friends at the beautifully-decorated Robison Mansion in Cañon City.  I didn’t write about it in case it got back to her, but it included a short concert and then lots of dancing.  It was so enjoyable.  Happy Birthday, Sheila!

What am I up to this week?

Friday night 7-10 I’m back at Magpies for our annual Christmas sing-along.  It’s always a free-flowing time with song sheets of old Christmas favorites for anyone who wants to sing out.  I often get the comment that folks had forgotten how much fun it is to sing the old favorites together.  Come on out and joy in the festivities!

Sunday night 7-8ish MST I’m doing my annual free Christmas living room concert at concertwindow.com/tommunch.  If you haven’t ever tuned in, I basically set up my computer or tablet on the coffee table, hook up a good mic, and broadcast a concert to anyone who wants to listen.  You can login at the site and chat with other folks who are listening and also make requests.  It’s a great way to reach out and sing for folks all over the globe.  Isn’t technology amazing?  Please tune in on your phone, tablet, or computer.

That’s it for this week.  If I don’t write next week have a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!  I’ll also tell you to “Be Good!” as my dad always told us kids - especially because Santa is coming!

Best always,

Tom

Details this week:

Who:  Tom Munch
What:  playing & singing
Where:  Magpies, 229 S. Union, Pueblo.  719-542-5522
When:  Friday, Dec 16, 7-10 pm

Who:  Tom Munch
What:  playing and singing Christmas favorites
Where:  online at https://www.concertwindow.com/tommunch
When:  Sunday, December 18, 7-8ish pm MST

We Need Each Other

I’ve been reading a lot lately, and I’m again reminded of many things I already knew, but it ’s good to get the reinforcement, especially in light of the political angst we feel now.  The biggest thing I realize is that we all need each other.  This is reflected in many ideas - from the spiritual belief that we are all one to the realization that on the quantum level we are all interconnected to the rational thought that we all depend on each other to make our society work.  We like to think that we can be rugged individuals who depend only on ourselves and don’t need anyone else, but in the end we realize that only people and friendships in this life matter - possessions and achievements don’t.  Let us try to remember this as we go about our days interacting with each other and figuring out how to make our time on earth and our world work.  Competition is invigorating, and we all want to have our opinions, but in the end we need each other, especially in the holiday season.

What have I been up to?

The private party last Monday for my dear friend was wonderful. Just a bunch of friends and family sitting around the living room sharing songs and stories. Just perfect!

Thanksgiving was quiet but very special as well. It's always great to spend time with family. I even got to pick a few tunes with my nephew, Eric, on clawhammer banjo Friday night. What fun!

What am I up to this week?

Friday night I'm back at Magpies to start the Christmas season. I'm not saying that I'll sing a bunch of Christmas songs, but I'm game for whatever everyone else is, as always. I'm thinking that we may do a Christmas sing-along at Magpies on the 16th if everyone's up for it. What do you think?

Saturday night I'm playing for the Council of State Governments Western Legislative Academy final night as I have done for the past several years. This is always an exciting group to play for. The Academy is a course that western elected officials take to learn to govern better. It's a very nice bipartisan atmosphere of congeniality and goodwill, which is a pleasant respite from the political rancor we've been experiencing this year. It's always a cowboy theme where I get to play great cowboy songs and then lead a sing-along and invite people up to sing with me. I've always enjoyed it. It's great to meet people who make a difference in their state and community.

That's it for this week. Enjoy this beautiful holiday season, and don't forget my online concert on the 18th.

Best always,

Tom

Details this week:

Who:  Tom Munch
What:  playing & singing
Where:  Magpies, 229 S. Union, Pueblo.  719-542-5522
When:  Friday, Dec 2, 7-10 pm

Holidays, Waypoints

It’s Thanksgiving Day week - Happy Thanksgiving!  I often use the holidays to mark where I’ve been and and where I am.  It’s kind of like the waypoint I mentioned in my title - dropping a pin to remember a point along the way.  I look back along the timeline of my life and see where I was on past holidays - who I was with, where I was staying, and what was going on in the world.  This Thanksgiving finds me in fairly good spirits.  I released a new album this year.  I have enough money to take a day or two off now and then.  My health is pretty good for a 55-year-old - I'm exercising daily and eating healthy with a few treats along the way.  My marriage with Jen is happy, and we have a new dog, Beau, who brings us joy daily.  I’m missing some old friends and family members who’ve passed on in the last year or so, and I’m enjoying new friendships and opportunities.  I’m enjoying more peace and mindfulness - notwithstanding the election season we just went through.  My music is flowing as well as ever, and probably coming to me more easily and naturally.  I’m still learning and exploring - reading new books and listening to podcasts that stretch my mind with science, history, fiction, philosophy, and spirituality.  I’m thankful for such a good life as I approach the holiday where we express our thankfulness.  I hope you are too.  I think of those around me who are less fortunate, and I try to keep giving from my gifts as I walk the path of life.

Happy Thanksgiving!

What have I been up to?

Last Friday was so much fun at Magpies.  Most of the regulars were there with a few new faces as well, and once again we did music from all over the map - even singing songs in tribute to Leonard Cohen, Leon Russell, and Mentor Williams.

What am I up to this week?

I don’t have any weekend gigs with the holiday other than nursing facilities, but I am playing a party tonight for a very good friend that I wanted to mention.  I live for these kind of events - playing in a living room for music lovers and friends.  I feel like family, and I get to sing my favorite songs for some of my favorite people.  It’s pretty much musical heaven.

I also wanted to remind everyone to put my online living room concert on your schedule if you’re available.  It’s Sunday, December 18, 7:00 pm mountain standard time (9:00 eastern) at concertwindow.com/tommunch.  Just tune in on your computer, tablet, phone, or whatever for an hour or so of Christmas tunes and memories.  You can make requests and comment as we go, and it’s free.

That’s all for now.  Happy Thanksgiving!

Best always,

Tom

Finding Peace

I’m not sure what to write about this week.  The last week has been trying for everyone - just too much angst about a change.  I try not to wrap myself up in the goings on of the world, but it’s hard to not be affected.  So I’ve been doing a lot of thinking and a lot of talking to friends on all sides.  I’ve also been listening to music and walking in nature - both things that absolutely enrich my soul and bring joy.  I don’t have final answers, but I do find peace for myself.  I will always believe and say that we choose our own reality - making each day what we want it to be.  I will always say that love is the most important thing - loving ourselves and loving others.  I will always believe in the big picture - living this life to the fullest in joy and laughter regardless of my situation.  I will always find wonder in this world - seeing the beauty of nature around me and the infinite possibilities in the universe.

What have I been up to?

Last time out at Magpies 2 weekends ago was really nice. So many friends were out, and we did songs from all over the board.

What's up this week?

I'm back at Magpies 7-10 Friday again. It's such a special time whenever we all get together downstairs at Magpies, and I'm sure this will be another night to remember. Please come down if you're in the area.

Also I'm planning an online Christmas concert for Sunday, December 18, at 7:00 Mountain Standard Time (9:00 Eastern) at concertwindow.com/tommunch. I always really enjoy these, and it's so easy to join in and make requests that it really is an interactive and fun time. Please mark your calendars and tune in.

That's it for this week. Take care of yourself, do something fun, and keep spreading the love.

Best always,

Tom

Details this week:

Who:  Tom Munch
What:  playing & singing
Where:  Magpies, 229 S. Union, Pueblo.  719-542-5522
When:  Friday, Nov 18, 7-10 pm

Out of Sorts

Boy, did I have a trying few days!  It started Wednesday when I started 2 simultaneous projects.

The first one was my Halloween costume which I decided to make myself this year.  I went online and searched Halloween costume pictures on Google for a few days until I found what I wanted - green sweats and a hoodie made to look like a cactus.  All I needed were matching sweats and hoodie and some yarn to make the cactus spines.  I ordered everything off Amazon so it would be to our house by Wednesday - figuring that would give me plenty of time to sew the yarn “spines” on the sweats.  Wednesday night I spent time figuring and diagramming until I had marked the sweats with dots where I thought the yarn should go.  On Thursday evening I started sewing the yarn pieces on - almost 900 of them.  The yarn was so thick that I had to use a leather needle and then pliers to pull the thick yarn through after threading the needle for each spine with a needle threader.  Can you see how this might take longer than I expected?  The thing I didn’t anticipate was that the acrylic yarn was going to go up my nose as I was sewing and cutting and give me an allergic reaction that would make my nose run like a had a terrible cold.  It even made my nose hurt with sinusitis so that it felt like I had been punched in the nose.  I did finish the hoodie this afternoon (Sunday) with half the original pieces of yarn  than I had figured at first, and I’m going to wear the sweats without the yarn.  Maybe if I get a wild hair I’ll finish those later.  The costume does look pretty good, but my nose still hurts, and it’s still running, and my fingers and wrists are pretty sore from all the tugging and pulling on the yarn.

The second project was testing a hardware problem on the iPhone 7 I got last month.  I had noticed the screen dimming at odd times - particularly in the car when it was just slightly warmer, and it was really starting to bother me that I couldn’t read the navigation map when I was driving unless the air conditioner was blowing on the back of the phone.   I had called Apple about it, and they had told me that I had to wipe the phone and make sure it would happen with none of my software installed or they wouldn’t replace it.  I have all my business on my phone, including inventories, invoices, schedules, income tracking, and much more, and every time I get a new phone it takes me several hours to get everything loaded on the phone, so wiping the phone and reinstalling all of that is not something I look forward to.  So Thursday evening I wiped the phone after doing a good backup and duplicated the problem.  I called Apple and they approved the replacement phone.  Everything was good so far, but then I started restoring all my data and apps back on the phone.  I went to bed hoping the process would be complete in the morning.  When I awoke the phone wouldn’t turn on.  Seems the backup process had hit a snag and the backup had crashed.  With support’s help I was able to make the phone function as just a phone for the day until I got home again Friday night and tried twice to restore it, but each time it crashed right at the end of a 4-hour process.  Saturday morning the kind support person determined that my backup was corrupted, so I started an 8-hour restore from the cloud backup I had made Wednesday night.  My phone was functioning normally, for the most part, by the time I got to bed Saturday night. Of course I had to determine what I had lost from Thursday and Friday and reenter any data I needed.  Then today I’m doing extra backups so that I’m ready to start the process all over again when I get the replacement phone tomorrow.  Whew!  Are computers really worth all this?  So I’m hoping this week will be less eventful, and I won’t be so out of sorts.

So what have I been up to?

Magpies was a blast the week before last.  It was so good to see all my regulars again, and we had a great time reminiscing and telling stories of our adventures over the summer.  After starting with a variety of songs, the night turned into a sing-along 60’s night by the end.  It was so much fun!

What am I up to this week?

Friday is Magpies 7-10 again, and I already have friends coming from as far away La Veta, so I know this will be a marvelous night again.  Please come out if you can!

That’s it for they week.  I’m still thinking of doing an online concert soon, so stay tuned.

Best always,

Tom

Details this week:

 Who:  Tom Munch
What:  playing & singing
Where:  Magpies, 229 S. Union, Pueblo.  719-542-5522
When:  Friday, Nov 4, 7-10 pm

No, I Didn’t Fall Off the Face of the Earth

It has been over a month since my last update, and after a little R&R I’m ready to hit it hard again.  Jen and I have been out and about enjoying the fall color and seeing many favorite spots around Colorado over the past few weeks.  Unfortunately we’ve also seen wildfires in several of the places we’ve visited, and the destruction of the forests from the bark beetles is very painful to see - whole stretches of nothing but grey trees with aspens interspersed.  Slowing down after such a busy summer season is also a little unnerving.  At first I go a little stir-crazy, but eventually I redirect my energy to new projects.  And this is my favorite time of the year, I think.  From the changing colors to the cooler evenings and the generally slowing pace, it becomes a much softer time of year in every way.  So in a way I do fall off the face of the earth, but I come back ready to go again.

What have I been up to?

I already told you we had done a bit of traveling.  The last time I wrote I was about to do the annual Senior Safari at the Pueblo Zoo.  Oh boy, was it a big event this year!  Over 800 people came out and saw the animals, listened to my music, ate pizza and goodies, and played bingo at the zoo.  It was a perfect day with just a touch of rain as I wrapped up my portion of the day.

What’s up this week?

Friday 7-10 I start the new season of playing at Magpies in Pueblo.  This is always a wonderful night as I get to see all of the folks I haven’t gotten to see since my last time there in the spring.  I have new guitars and new songs plus all the old favorites we always share with the great food and ambience.  Come on down if you can!

I’ll close on that note.  Be good to yourselves and try not to get to wrapped up in all the election hoopla.  It’ll be over soon enough.

Best always,

Tom

Details this week:

Who:  Tom Munch
What:  playing & singing
Where:  Magpies, 229 S. Union, Pueblo.  719-542-5522
When:  Friday, Oct 21, 7-10 pm

Going Away and Coming Home

Just got back from a couple days in the mountains in New Mexico - exploring and doing some hiking. I heard there was a fantastic festival in Taos, but we didn’t make it over there.  Got back a little bit ago, and I thought I’d reflect on the going away and the coming home - even though this was a darn short trip.  When prepping for the trip there is always a lot of excitement as you make lists and plans for where to go and what to do.  Looking at a map and imagining what you can discover is great fun.  Then the travel is exciting - just feasting your eyes on the wide-open spaces from a car, boat, or plane is enchanting and exhilarating.  Then when you get to your destination there is so much joy in just relaxing, or making an exploring trip, or letting the spirit lead you on a spontaneous adventure.  Being away gives a freedom of mind as you realize that there is little from home that can break the spell you find yourself under.  My dad used to say when we were in the mountains that we were going to “let the rest of the world go by,” and that’s why I’ve always loved the song of that name so much.  (Have I shared that story before?)  Then when it’s finally time to leave there is always a pang for the things you didn’t get to do or see and the promise that you’ll be back there again soon to try those things out.  Sometimes theres even a little tear and a silent goodbye to the place as you leave.  The journey home always seems to take much longer than the trip out, and we try to leave enough time to at least make one fun stop along the way that we can look forward to.  Then arriving home is always a whirlwind of putting things away, checking mail, paying bills, and making lists of things to catch up on.  Sometimes I dread the coming home so much that I don’t want to go away - just so much to go through and organize and put away.  It sometimes takes away the joy of the trip at first.  So how about you?  Does this ring true for you too?

What have I been up to?

The weekend before last I had a wonderful time Saturday playing in the park in La Veta for the Pickers Paradise.  I got to see some good friends and do some favorite tunes.

Sunday after that was the Feed Store Park concert which was absolutely perfect.  The weather was the best I’ve ever experienced (even though it rained the morning before), and the people were so supportive and loving.  I played one full set of instrumental tunes in the middle that was a bit of a challenge for me, but it let me express myself in ways that I truly enjoy.

What am I up to this week?

Wednesday 10:30-1:00 I’m playing the annual Senior Safari at the Pueblo Zoo.  I look forward to this every year.  It’s a free day at the zoo for seniors 65+ that sees friends from all around including many of the facilities I perform at all over the area.  It gets bigger every year, and it looks like the weather will be perfect for it.  If you’re a senior then come on out!

What’s down the road?

October 21 will be the first time out this fall for Magpies in Pueblo.  I love playing here for so many good friends in Pueblo and around the area.

I have a few private events coming up.

I think I’m going to be writing another album of vocal songs.  It just feels like it’s time again.

I’d like to do an online concert this fall, but I haven’t made a plan when yet.

That’s it for now.  Take care of yourself, and I hope to see you soon.

Best,

Tom

Details this week:

Who:  Tom Munch
What:  playing and singing at the Senior Safari - FREE to all senior citizens 65+
Where:  Pueblo Zoo
When:  Wednesday, September 14, 10:30-1:00 (event runs 10:00-2:00)

End of Summer and Changing Chapters

Labor Day always marks the end of summer for me, and it always puts me in a different mood.  There’s a tinge of sadness left over from all the years (especially when I was young) of leaving the activities and places of summer and returning home to the mellowness of autumn.  It’s not just sad, though, as I love the change of seasons and general slowing down of life a bit.  It also marks a new chapter of life as I shift gears to what comes after closing my mom’s estate.  (We’re not completely done, but we can see the sun setting.)  I haven’t really thought that much about what the next chapter will be, but you can tell that I’ve been thinking about it if you’ve followed my thoughts this summer.  I still love life with the same passion, and I still love to play, sing, and create as much as ever, so you have to know that I have some worthwhile things still in the pipeline.  I feel some cool nights of playing and reflecting coming on, and that usually means new music and lot of both peace and excitement.  That’s a great place to be.  So bring on the next chapter!

What happened last week?

Last week I just had one public show playing at Lucy’s RV Park for an outdoor concert Friday night.  It turned out to be a beautiful night with lots of fine folks and everything clicked.  Life is good!  Thanks to everyone who came out and made the evening so enjoyable.

What am I up to this week?

Saturday 12-2 I’m playing in the park in La Veta on Ryus for another Pickers Day.  The last one of these I played over Memorial Day weekend was really fun, and I suspect this one will be just as good.  There’s lots of folks with cool finds for sale, and I get to provide a musical backdrop to all this neatness.  Come on out if you can.

Sunday 2-5 I’m returning to Westcliffe to play for the Feed Store Amphitheater “Summer in the Park” series.  This is always a very special afternoon of beautiful views of the Sangres and a really rustic layout in the old tunnel-looking stage (complete with train light coming out of the darkness.)  I look forward to this afternoon every year, and I’d love to have you there if you can make it.

That’s it for this week.  Things officially slow down for me after this week, so I won’t be making weekly updates.  Magpies starts in October, although we haven’t picked the date yet.  (I’d better get on that.)  Be good to yourself, and I hope to see you soon.

Best always,

Tom

Details this week:

Who:  Tom Munch
What:  playing for Pickers Day in the park
Where:  La Veta Park on Ryus
When:  Saturday, September 2, 12-2 pm

Who:  Tom Munch
What:  playing and singing a concert in the mountains
Where:  The Feed Store Amphitheater, 116 North 2nd Street, Westcliffe.  719-783-2771
When:  Sunday, September 3, 2-5 pm

Mountain Lions and Living with Nature

We live in a rural area, and I’m amazed at how often at home and in my travels I deal with nature.  My title above comes from a note from my sister this morning that she saw a small mountain lion outside our old family cabin in New Mexico over the weekend and heard strange noises coming from several places around the cabin (which may have been a mating mountain lion pair).  I have just finished the book, “Heart of a Lion” about a mountain lion who traveled from North Dakota to New York, so I have had mountain lions on the brain a bit this summer.  The book mainly focuses on how mountain lions live in and around many populated areas, and how they have been demonized along with other wild creatures over the past couple centuries in America.  I find when I’m paying attention that wild critters are around me every day.  We just had a hawk sitting on the fence post and consuming a lizard right next to my car as I drove into the driveway a few days ago.  And I’ve spotted a couple badgers recently - haven’t seen one of those since I was a kid.  Then there have been several coyotes here and in New Mexico that I’ve seen, and there was even a skunk we could smell as I was playing Cowboy Day in La Veta over the weekend.  One of the more notable events in the past few years has been the many elk around the cabin in New Mexico that we never had when we were kids out there - big herds of them crashing through the trees and grazing in the meadows.  And that’s not to mention the countless rabbits and other common visitors around the house in Pueblo West.  We’ve even had more spiders lately.  And all of these encounters serve to remind me that this is a big world with lots of creatures sharing it, and lots of opportunities for interaction and wonder every day.  When I think that my world is pretty small and limited, these events of living with nature remind me how special this life is.

What happened last week?

Thursday at the Yellow Pine was an emotional last show of the season and last show with Jo Anne Van Lue as the manager at the ranch since she is leaving for Branson.  I thoroughly enjoyed it, and we had some very special people there.

Saturday was fun playing cowboy songs at Francisco Fort in La Veta for Cowboy Day as well as sharing the stage with other cowboy singers and poets - some from my old haunts of Cimarron and the Moreno Valley and Black Lake.  Some fine folks were in the audience as well, and my good friends, the McGregors, even invited me for a quick lunch before I had to run to Westcliffe for an outdoor wedding and reception where we dodged the rain and enjoyed a beautiful evening of love, friends, and music.

Sunday was a backyard party in Cuchara playing with Dennis and Trudy that was chilly, but oh so enjoyable.  What a time we had!

What am I up to this week?

Friday I’m playing a free outdoor concert 6:30-8 at I Love Lucy’s Place RV Park in La Veta for some good folks.  I had a great time last year playing on their stage, and I’d love to have you there if you are in the area.

I just have the one gig to tell you about this week.  The summer is winding down.  Of course I always have my nursing facilities, retirement centers, and Alzheimer homes that I play, so my schedule is never empty.

Hope you have a great week!

Best always,

Tom

Details this week:

Who:  Tom Munch
What:  playing an outdoor concert
Where:  I Love Lucy's Place RV Park, 226 W. Grand Avenue, La Veta. 719-742-3252
When:  Friday, August 26, 6:30- 8:00 pm

Bushwhacking and Trusting Your Instincts

Jen and I did some exploring yesterday in the mountains with our dog, Beau - following old roads up to a favorite spot of our family over the years. We took a different road than usual and ended up going to a different place above the spot, and then we bushwhacked and also took different roads down that took us to places I haven't been in 30 or more years. It reminded me of when I was a kid and used to spend many days exploring and traipsing around the mountains. I never worried about getting lost, because I always had a "sense" of where I was that I trusted. Somehow when you've spent a lot of time outdoors you have a feel for where you are and which way you need to go for how long to arrive at a certain destination. It's hard to explain, but it's something I've always possessed and cherished. I know that not everyone has this, so I don't recommend it to everyone, but I think in general we do have natural instincts for which way to go in our lives if we are quiet and listen closely enough to our senses and our intuition. We tend to look for guidance outside when we have very clear internal guidance that is there when we listen. So dare to bushwhack in  your life occasionally and see where your intuition leads you.

What happened last week?

Last week was a little slower because we took the weekend for R&R in the mountains (and some exploring - see above.)

Thursday was the Yellow Pine with great friends again. I was experimenting with the new guitars, and they both sounded very nice. We even had lots of dancers. It was a blast!

What am I up to this week?

Thursday 6:30-8:30 is the last time out for the barbecue at the Yellow Pine for the season. It should be a very special night, and I'm looking forward to it. It has been a wonderful season this year at the Yellow Pine with the new owners, the Evans'.  If you'd like to be there, please call 719-742-3528 by Tuesday evening for reservations.

Saturday I'll be playing Cowboy Day at Francisco Fort Museum in La Veta 10-12. I love the old cowboy tunes and lore, and I relish the chance to do a show of cowboy songs, especially since the smaller of the new guitars is a perfect "saddle" guitar - small and simple. Come on out if you can.

Saturday evening I'm playing a wedding and reception in Westcliffe that promises to be a lovely event. Congrats in advance, Barney and Linda!

Sunday evening I'm playing another back yard party in Cuchara along the river with Trudy and Dennis. This should be a really great time. The folks in Cuchara are such good people!

That's it for this week. Just a couple more weeks of craziness for the summer left. Enjoy it!

Best always,

Tom

Details this week:

Who:  Tom Munch
What:  playing & singing at the Barbeque
Where:  Yellow Pine Guest Ranch, Cuchara.  719-742-3528
When:  Thursday, August 18, 6:30-8:30 pm

Who:  Tom Munch
What:  playing and singing for Francisco Fort Cowboy Day
Where:  Francisco Fort, 306 S. Main, La Veta.  719-742-5501
When:  Saturday, August 20, 10 am-12 pm

New Guitars, New Possibilities

Well, I did get a new guitar. In fact, I got two. I know it seems fast since I just talked about thinking about them last week, but I've actually been considering these guitars for quite some time. I haven't purchased a nicer guitar in twenty years, and so it seems it is time. The two are both Martin guitars, and they're kind of complimentary - one with a small and sweet historic sound, and the other with a big, modern sound. They're both easier to get a good sound onstage with less gear than I usually use, and I'm not someone of late that is always looking at the latest thing, so I'm not worried about seeing greener grass on the other side of the fence. So what do I think so far and how will they affect my playing? Well, they seem to be more expressive and dynamic than the guitars I've used in the last few years, so that is already leading me to listen more and work with the interplay between guitar and voice. They haven't inspired any songs yet, but I don't expect that so soon.  As I play my regular repertoire I will see what their strengths are and when they sing out strong. It's an exciting time, and it drives my dreams in new ways. That's a good thing. 

What have I been up to?

Last week was a lot of fun as always. The summer is definitely waning, but I have several great gigs left. 

Thursday was Yellow Pine barbecue, and it was a few less people in attendance, but it was a stellar group of folks on a chilly and rainy evening. If my knuckle wasn't bothering me a bit I could have gone for hours. 

Saturday was my solo performance of the Song of Pueblo, and it went really well. It was interesting getting to play with the show a little bit and ad lib some. People told me they really enjoyed it, particularly the intensified intimacy that came from a solo show. We added Native American drummers to the Sand Creek ballad that gave the song an authenticity that was breathtaking. 

Sunday was a warm day at the Royal Gorge Bridge playing with the Atomic 

Fireballs. It was a blast getting to play some of the old 50's songs that we used to play so often. I miss that. 

What's up this week?

Thursday is the Yellow Pine barbecue, and they have extended it one more week due to popular demand, so if you wanted to come they have added next week as well. I can't wait. Call 719-742-3528 by Tuesday evening if you'd like to be there. I really enjoy these evenings, and I'd love to have you there. 

That's it for this week. I hope your summer is rounding out well. 

Best,

Tom

Details this week:

Who:  Tom Munch

What:  playing & singing at the Barbeque

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

When:  Thursday, August 11, 6:30-8:30 pm

Thinking of a New Guitar

I've been trying to simplify my setup and start to pare down equipment (a consequence of realizing how much stuff my mom had and seeing how much I have), and this is leading me to buy a simpler guitar - at least one with less peripheral equipment. How is that worth a paragraph on my weekly missive? Well, each guitar has its own voice and feel that actually influences how I play and how I'm inspired. I know that may sound kind of odd, but it's true. There is an interaction and even a joy to playing some instruments that really does contribute to how I play. Sometimes it's the feel of the woodgrain on the neck or the fit of the shape against my body. Sometimes it's just the responsiveness of the instrument in volume and dynamics. Anyway it does make a difference that is real and noticeable. So what am I looking at? Actually a couple of Martin guitars. My first real guitar was a Martin, and I've owned a few others over the years. They've never been the best for me, but have always been workhorse guitars that did everything I asked of them. The ones I'm looking at have a sophisticated pickup system that incorporates the outboard gear I've been using for the past few years right into the guitar, and this should make my life easier - especially when playing in new locations or on different systems. Anyway, that's what I'm looking at. I'll let you know if I make the jump.

What have been up to?

Last week was a good one. Lots of friends and fans.

Thursday was Yellow Pine with friends I hadn't seen in years, Diana and Scott, coming down from up north with their kids and lots of other familiar faces. Beautiful night with even some sweet-smelling rain.

Friday was a backyard party that was way too much fun playing with Dennis and Trudy. There was even some rain there too, but it only added to the party atmosphere of the night. Thanks, Carolyn!

Saturday was playing for a Target 30-year anniversary that was really neat. Lots of prizes and smiles all around. It was great, Lauri and Ray!

What am I up to this week?

Thursday 6:30-8:30 is the Yellow Pine barbecue again, and I'm starting to miss it already because this week and next week are the last two weeks of the barbecue season. I will savor these last two times. It's always special and so enjoyable. If you'd like to be part of these last two, please call 719-742-3528 by Tuesday evening for a reservation. Seating is limited.

Saturday at 7:00 I'll be doing a special solo show of the Song of Pueblo in Cuchara at the Community Center. I'll have a couple native drummers to assist with me atmosphere and drumming on "Death at Sand Creek".  I've always thought I could do a great intimate solo show of this piece, and I've been pleasantly surprised at how engaging it has sounded in practice. I'd love to have you there. It's a benefit for the fire auxiliary in Cuchara.

Sunday I'll be playing with the Atomic Fireballs at the Royal Gorge Bridge 12:30-4:30. I had so much fun with them last time, and I'm sure this will be right in line. There's something so magical about playing music on the rim of that canyon, and of course I have a history up there of 30 years of playing so that it will always hold a place in my heart. Come on out!

That's it for this week. I hope your summer is rounding out nicely and that you're being good to yourself and others in this contentious election year.

Best always,

Tom

Details this week:

Who:  Tom Munch
What:  playing & singing at the Barbeque
Where:  Yellow Pine Guest Ranch, Cuchara.  719-742-3528
When:  Thursday, August 4, 6:30-8:30 pm

Who:  Tom Munch
What:  playing, singing, & telling the history of Pueblo at the Song of Pueblo oratorio
Where:  Cuchara Community Center, Cuchara.
When:  Saturday, August 6, 7:00 pm

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: Sunday , August 7, 12:30 am-4:30 pm

Taking My Own Advice

I always try to be upbeat and positive in my weekly missives, but the truth is that I struggle sometimes to be in a good frame of mind, and I also struggle to come up with good things to write. I like to practice being loving and joyful, but this year has been a bit rough at times, and sometimes I just long to relax and zone out. So I usually write this paragraph of my blog last as I come up with what to write in a proper state of mind. Funny thing, as I write what I've been up to and where I'm headed I realize how lucky I am - doing what I do and where I do - I find that my attitude changes and I discover new energy and joy. It doesn't mean that I won't have low points in my day where everything catches up with me, but it does mean that I know where I'm bound and what I'm here for, and those worries can be dealt with or left behind. I'm here for joy and love and to experience this life to the fullest!

And this week I’m trying to do something to counter the ill-feelings in the world. Each day I’m trying to do two acts of kindness - one to someone else and one to myself.  These are outside my normal routine where I try to be kind to people and myself. Just open a door or let someone go first in a way that expresses kindness, and take yourself to a movie or do something special for yourself. I think it’s a worthy way to try and improve the world.  Will you try it with me?

What I have been up to?

Last week was great - so many kind people and sweet places to play.

Thursday was the Yellow Pine, and we went late playing all kinds of songs and sharing stories. There are such fine people there.

Friday I picked up a last-minute wedding rehearsal dinner for the couple I played the wedding for on Saturday. It was so clever with a sweets theme with all kinds of candy treats, custom popcorn, and fish fortunes. It was a blast!

Saturday I played at Francisco Fort in La Veta for Francisco Fort Day, and it turned into a couple hours of historical songs. I was totally open for whatever happened, and that's what the crowd wanted, so I played old songs and told anecdotes about where the songs came from and who wrote them. I love doing that!

Saturday was also the aforementioned wedding in Cuchara. It was a beautiful and fun service in the chapel with smiling children, teary adults, and lots of love. Congrats, Nadia and Rob!

What's up this week?

Thursday is the Yellow Pine Barbecue 6:30-8:30 in Cuchara again. I always say how much I love playing this gig, but you have to be there to appreciate it. The old barn and the barbecue is amazing. There's even a great small floor for kicking up your heels if you fell so inclined. If you'd like to be there, call 719-742-3528 to make a reservation by Tuesday evening.

Friday I have a private backyard party for the mother of the bride from last week's wedding that I'm playing with a couple folks from La Veta - Dennis Mills and Trudy Price. This should be great fun. I wish I could invite you all!

Saturday I have a private party for Target warehouse in Pueblo. These are great folks and friends I've gotten to work with and play for in the past, including the folks who volunteer to help with the Senior Safari at the Pueblo Zoo each year from Target. I'm looking forward to it!

That's it for now. Hope you all have a good week!

Best always,

Tom

Details this week:

Who:  Tom Munch
What:  playing & singing at the Barbeque
Where:  Yellow Pine Guest Ranch, Cuchara.  719-742-3528
When:  Thursday, July 28, 6:30-8:30 pm

So Simple - You Reap What You Sow

I had a very simple epiphany this morning.  In life as in gardening you get what you plant - you reap what you sow.  This didn’t come to me as I was gardening (bad year for a garden here with hoppers), but it came to me nonetheless.  When I look at how to approach my day and my life, I realize how important it is to put love and joy out into the world if I want them to be part of my life.  This is something I have to work at - I still get out of kilter like everyone else, but I see such beauty and so much reason to be joyful and loving.  I look at some of the problem areas in the world, and they are usually a result of putting discord and bad feelings out into the world.  Will Rogers once said, “When you find yourself in a hole, quit digging.”  That’s good advice and directly in line with reaping what you sow.  So put out what you want to get back, my friends, and remember to look back at what you planted if you don’t get what you were hoping for.

What happened last week?

Thursday the Yellow Pine was one of the best nights ever - lots of good folks and good energy flowing.

Friday was alternately a hot and windy day at the Royal Gorge Bridge playing with the Atomic Fireballs, but we had great fun.

Saturday was as crazy as ever playing for the Westcliffe Stampede Rodeo dance with the Atomic Fireballs, or Midnight Rain as we’ve always gone by for that gig.

The week also saw the wrap-up of the shows for the rafting scouts for the season.  I met some mighty fine boys and adult leaders this year.

What am I up to this week?

Thursday is the Yellow Pine Barbecue 6:30-8:30 once again, and I know it’ll be as sweet a group as ever.  I’d love to have you there if you’d like to come.  Call 719-742-3528 for reservations by Tuesday evening.  It fills up fast!

Saturday 12-2 I’m playing for Francisco Fort Day in La Veta.  I haven’t played this event in a couple years, and I love getting a chance to play some more historical songs mixed in with my regular fare, so this promises to be a special event.  It’s in the patio next to the big cottonwood planted in 1878, so I’m in good company!

Saturday evening I’m playing a wedding in Cuchara for old and new friends.  Congrats, you two!  It’s going to go great.

That’s all for now.  I hope you’re enjoying your summer and that you have much joy and love in your life.

Best always,

Tom

Details this week:

Who:  Tom Munch
What:  playing & singing at the Barbeque
Where:  Yellow Pine Guest Ranch, Cuchara.  719-742-3528
When:  Thursday, July 21, 6:30-8:30 pm

Who:  Tom Munch
What:  playing and singing for Fort Francisco Day
Where:  Fort Francisco, 306 S. Main, La Veta.  719-742-5501
When:  Saturday, July 23, 12-2 pm

“When” and “If” to Retire

My mind has been on retirement this past week. First, I had a conversation with a good friend from Bose about his retirement.  Then I had my friend JoAnn from the Yellow Pine announce her retirement. I have always said that I would work until I dropped or couldn't play anymore - figuring music was something I could do well into my twilight years. I still feel that way and have no plans to retire, but I still found myself exploring the thought as my friends told me about what they were doing and looking forward to. There is always that idea that you have things you'd like to do that you will eventually be too old and decrepit to do, and if you retire before that time maybe you can do them more fully and with gusto. The worry that you'll use up your money or have a debilitating illness that will leave you with no money is also a thought, so maybe you should enjoy your health and savings while you have them both? It also occurs to me that we should do the things we want to do during our healthy years or maybe make a career out of those. I've kind of done that with my music, but there are always other things I'd like to do in addition. Anyway, it's was an interesting place to dwell in for a time - the thoughts about what I'd do if I retired and how I could live my life differently in the present to feel more fulfilled. How about you?

What happened last week?

Last week was a whirlwind - especially Friday when I had five, count 'em, five gigs.

Tuesday was a windy but fun day playing with the Atomic Fireballs at the Royal Gorge Bridge. Everything just flowed as the heat zapped our energy by the end of the day.

Thursday was a fine evening at the Yellow Pine where JoAnn announced her retirement - Congrats, JoAnn!  She will leave at the end of the season.

Friday I had three nursing and Alzheimer gigs followed by playing for rafting scouts and then a private backyard party.  Whew! What a crazy day of running that was.

Saturday was my annual concert at Philmont Scout Ranch which was wonderful!

Sunday was another show for rafting scouts. It was a stellar group.

What am I up to this week?

Thursday is another evening at the Yellow Pine Barbecue 6:30-8:30. Each week seems more fun than the last with good friends galore. If you'd like to be a part of it, then make your reservation by Tuesday evening - 719-742-3528.

Friday I'm back at the Royal Gorge Bridge with the Atomic Fireballs 12:30-4:30. I'm sure it will be a great afternoon!

Then also Friday I play for another group of rafting scouts at the Royal Gorge after I'm done with the band. (I'm also playing for the scouts Monday and Wednesday.)

Saturday I'm playing 9-1 with the Atomic Fireballs for the Westcliffe Stampede Rodeo dance after the rodeo wraps up. This is always the wildest night of the year, and if you love to dance western or watch drunk cowboys try to dance, then this is the place for you!

That's it for now. I hope your summer is going well - even with all the hot weather, angst, and unrest in the air. Love and laughter is always the answer.

Best,

Tom

Details this week:

Who:  Tom Munch
What:  playing & singing at the Barbeque
Where:  Yellow Pine Guest Ranch, Cuchara.  719-742-3528
When:  Thursday, July 14, 6:30-8:30 pm

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: Friday, July 15, 12:30 am-4:30 pm

Who:  Tom Munch & the Atomic Fireballs
What:  playing for the Westcliffe Stampede Rodeo dance
Where:  Westcliffe Rodeo Grounds (north of town)
When:  Saturday, July 16, 9 pm - 1 am

Longing for the Wild Places

It’s the time of year when my heart turns to the mountains and I long for the wild places.  I spent so many years in my youth hiking and exploring in the peaks, and I’m always so busy with gigs in the summer that I don’t get time for more than brief dalliances with them.  There’s just a grandeur and majesty that really speak to me and it reminds me of how wonderful the universe is.  My mind goes to all those John Muir and Thoreau quotes.  It’s a great recharger of peace and meaning in life.  I’m playing at Philmont in New Mexico this Saturday, and I’ll get a little shot that I’ll thoroughly enjoy.  I’m going to journey to the Wild Lands!

What have I been up to?

Last week was another whirlwind although I thought it would be a little easier.
Monday and Wednesday I did shows for the rafting Scouts which were very worthwhile.
Thursday was a large group of folks at the Yellow Pine.
Saturday was an even bigger group at the park in La Veta that was a blast, and then I also played a retirement party for dear friends with the La Veta band that was great fun.
Sunday was Jelly Jam in La Veta that really kicked with lots of guest singers and players.

What am I up to this week?

Tuesday 12:30-4:30 I’m playing at the Royal Gorge Bridge with the Atomic Fireballs on the south side of the bridge. I haven’t played with the Atomic Fireballs in quite a while, and I always enjoy seeing the guys and playing - especially at the Gorge.

Thursday is the Yellow Pine barbecue in Cuchara, and I’m looking forward to so many friends and new acquaintances.  Plus the food is SO good.  Call 719-742-3528 by Tuesday evening for reservations.

Friday I’m playing for rafting Scouts and then a private party in Pueblo that should be a lot of fun.

Saturday I’m playing for Philmont Scout Ranch again during the staff reunion in New Mexico.  This outdoor concert is one of the highlights of my year each year, and this one will be especially poignant since last year’s concert was the last time I saw my mom before her stroke.

Sunday I’m playing for a group of rafting Scouts again.  This is very rewarding work.

That’s it for this week.  Stay safe and laugh much!  Oh, and Happy Independence Day!

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: Tuesday, July 5, 12:30 am-4:30 pm

Who:  Tom Munch
What:  playing & singing at the Barbeque
Where:  Yellow Pine Guest Ranch, Cuchara.  719-742-3528
When:  Thursday, July 7, 6:30-8:30 pm

Who:  Tom Munch
What:  playing at concert at Philmont Scout Ranch
Where:  Philmont Scout Ranch, Cimarron, NM
When:  Saturday, July 9, 8:00-10:00 pm

Music of the Spheres

A friend of mine sent me a video link that brought back a series of thoughts about frequencies, music, and how the universe works.  The idea is that everything in the universe down to the quantum level vibrates at certain frequencies that interact with each other.  These interactions are very similar to the way musical frequencies interact with each other.  When we hear a series of musical frequencies they make up the notes and chords that result in music, and by extension the interaction of the frequencies in the universe also make a kind of music also even though it’s not audible in most cases.  In the spirit of this idea, everything interacts in a way that can be harmonious or disharmonious - in tune or out of tune.  By thinking about this down to the tiniest level we can explore thoughts about how we get along with each other, how we comprehend our world, and how we seek the things each day that bring us pleasure and pain.  All are a result of the interactions within us and without us and how we perceive them at all levels.  Pretty heady stuff, and I only lightly touch on what I understand here.  You can see the full video she sent me here - https://youtu.be/AfzjjcXIf9Y.  What do you think?

What have I been up to?

Last week was a little easier on me than the previous week.  Thursday was a wonderful group of folks at the Yellow Pine.  Friday was a beautiful opening reception at the Blue Heron Gallery.  Saturday was a fun party for a dear friend.  Sunday was the first show for the Blue Sky scouts after they rafted.  What a blast!

What's up this week?

Today and Wednesday I do shows for the Blue Sky scouts after their rafting trips.  I won’t say much more about these other than it’s great to see folks heading to Philmont and share some memories and great songs.

Thursday is the barbecue at the Yellow Pine 6:30-8:30, and it just keeps getting better.  The food is wonderful this year as always, and there have been some good friends and new friends already this year.  Make reservations by Tuesday if you’d like to come so they know how much food to make - 719-742-3528.

Saturday 11-1 I’m playing in the park on Ryus in La Veta for Space Art in the Park.  I really love playing in this park for the great folks of La Veta, and this should be a really fun time.  Later that evening I’m headed to play with the La Veta band at good friends’ retirement party in Avondale.

Sunday I’m back with the La Veta band for Jelly Jam at Sammie’s in La Veta again.  I think we’ll be playing 7-10, but we could flex either side of that since it’s the crazy 4th of July weekend.  We’ll have a special guest form Nashville sitting in with us, so this will be extra special.

Whew!  I’m going to be ready for a day off on the 4th.  How about you?  Come on out for some music if you’re in the area where I’m playing, and have a great Independence Day!

Best always,

Tom

Details this week:

Who:  Tom Munch
What:  playing & singing at the Barbeque
Where:  Yellow Pine Guest Ranch, Cuchara.  719-742-3528
When:  Thursday, June 30, 6:30-8:30 pm

Who:  Tom Munch
What:  playing and singing for Space Art in the Park
Where:  Ryus Ave as you enter on the right - just cross the tracks in La Veta
When:  Saturday, July 2, 11-1 pm

Who: Tom Munch playing with Jason White, George Galvan, Cass Cruz, Trudy Price, and Dennis Mills
What: Jelly Jam - playing music to dance to and enjoy
Where:  Sammie's in La Veta - just northeast of the tracks on the highway into town
When:  Friday, July 3, 7-10?

Sensations

I'm reminded at just how wonderful life is today by sensations I'm feeling. First, I found some new fingerpicks that simulate fingernails better than any I have tried before, and so I have stripped off the coatings on my right-hand nails and am trying these new picks all week. This gives my fingers a feeling I haven't felt in more than 20 years with flexibility in my fingertips and a lightness that is hard to describe. I was using my left hand where I didn't have the nail coatings for a lot of tasks that I couldn't perform with thick nails on my right hand. It's a small thing, but it's huge in my experience. We'll see if the picks make the grade. Second, I was walking this morning in very thin-soled "barefoot" shoes, and I was struck at how often I felt sticks and grass under my feet that I'm usually unaware of. It was like being a kid walking barefoot in grass or sand for the first time. It was a great sensation, and one I savored. I tend to be more aware of sensations than a lot of folks in my experience. It's a little joy I can treat myself to on an ordinary day. How about you? Hugh Prather wrote about sensation in books I must have read more than 30 years ago. I'm glad to remember today.

What have I been up to?

Last week surely kicked my patootie! I played Tuesday through Saturday nights as well as days, and I was exhausted by Sunday when I got the chance to catch up a bit.

Tuesday was great fun playing at the park in Florence. I had a good crowd on a beautiful evening. Thursday was the first night of the summer at the Yellow Pine, and I love the new owners, Lee and Joy, and what they've done with the place. Playing there always feels like home. Friday was a blast playing at the Jelly Jam with the La Veta band folks. We had a huge crowd. Saturday night was glorious celebrating Karen and Erics' marriage with the McGregors and friends. Congratulations, you two!

What am I up to this week?

Thursday is the Yellow Pine barbeque, and I'm really looking forward to it. I can't believe how much I've missed the place. The food is better than ever, and I think you'll love the improvements. Call 719-742-3528 for reservations.

Friday I'm playing the opening celebration for Blue Heron Gallery at 125 E. Main in Florence, CO. This looks like a very nice place. You may have seen the post I shared about this on Facebook.

Saturday I'm playing a private party for a good friend's graduation in Cañon City that I'm really looking forward to!

Sunday I start my season playing for the Scouts on their way to Philmont Scout Ranch after they raft at the Royal Gorge. This is a great chance to inspire and encourage, and I'm grateful for the opportunity to do so.

That's it for this week. There's a ton going on this summer, and I hope I run into you somewhere down the road.

Best always,

Tom

Details this week:

Who:  Tom Munch
What:  playing & singing at the Barbeque
Where:  Yellow Pine Guest Ranch, Cuchara.  719-742-3528
When:  Thursday, June 23, 6:30-8:30 pm

Who:  Tom Munch
What:  playing for the gallery opening
Where:  Blue Heron Gallery at 125 E. Main, Florence, CO
When:  Friday, June 24, 7-9 pm

Humanity

I'm thinking today in the wake of pain over the weekend of what it means to be human and what the big picture is. I always draw back when I get too involved in my own world so I can see what the high-altitude view of the world is. In the end we all share this existence on a big blue ball in this universe. All of our struggles and individual ideas - how we express ourselves in this world - are an experiment in living and learning. Figuring out our individualism is part of the experiment.  I think that diving so deeply into the experiment that we forget our connectedness is when we hurt ourselves and each other - at least that’s what makes sense to me today.

What have I been up to?

Song of Pueblo was very nice last Friday in Walsenburg. We had a small but appreciative crowd on a beautiful evening. The stories flowed.

What am I up to this week?

This is the first very busy summer week.

Tuesday. First of all, I told you the wrong date for the show at Pioneer Park in Florence. It will be Tuesday evening starting at 6:00 with an old-fashioned potluck with sandwiches, bring-your-own side dish, a lawn chair, a smile, and your friends (from the fun poster). I should start playing around 7:00. It sounds like a great time to me. It's sponsored by the Cowboy Church at Crossroads in Florence. You might remember I played a Christmas show for them last year. They are great folks, and this should be fun.

Thursday night at 6:30 I start the barbeque at the Yellow Pine in Cuchara. This is my 15th season at the Yellow Pine (with taking off last year), and I'm looking forward to the grand folks in the big barn on a starry night. This is such a fun gig. If you haven’t been, it’s a great Texas-Style barbeque with all the fixin’s, my music, and marshmallow roasting and s’mores at the campfire.  It’s $25 for adults and $10 for kids 10 and under. Call 719-742-3528 for reservations.  They sell out quickly.

Friday 7-10 I’m playing with the group from La Veta (that we put together for the music festival and then decided to play elsewhere) at Sammie’s in La Veta. Last time out we had a great time, and I expect this time to be the same. We call it the “Jelly Jam” for no jelly, just jam(ming). It’s free and a lot of fun.

Saturday I have a private wedding party in La Veta for some very good friends.

That’s it for this week.  I hope I make it through. I love to play though, and I wouldn’t be caught doing anything else.

Best always,

Tom

Details:

Who:  Tom Munch
What:  playing for the pot luck and concert in the park
Where:  Pioneer Park in Florence, CO
When:  Tuesday, June 14, 6:00 potluck with music to follow after 7:00

Who:  Tom Munch
What:  playing & singing at the Barbeque
Where:  Yellow Pine Guest Ranch, Cuchara.  719-742-3528
When:  Thursday, June 15, 6:30-8:30 pm

Who: Tom Munch playing with Jason White, George Galvan, Cass Cruz, Trudy Price, and Dennis Mills
What: Jelly Jam - playing music to dance to and enjoy
Where:  Sammie's in La Veta - just northeast of the tracks on the highway into town
When:  Friday, June 16, 7-10

Ah, Summer!

The season is upon us again that always fills me with energy and awe.  Summer has always represented such wonderful things to me - traveling, mountains, swimming, fresh produce, warm evenings, lots of music, and so much more.  As I get older it wears me out just thinking of all the things to do in the summer, and yet there is an electricity in my bones as the season gets rolling that will carry me through.  When I was young the summer always had endless hours of outdoors playing with friends and literally living in my swim trunks.  As I got older it was hiking and mountains and the smell of a campfire and fresh pine.  Then in my adulthood it was playing music at all hours and in every location imaginable.  In midlife now it’s still playing music a “heckuvalot”, but there is also the quiet reflection of the beauty of a summer morning or the cool of a summer evening.  The summer seems to fly by and be gone before I even know it has started.  But still there is that energy that helps get me through the long hours of work, the weeding and digging, and the rush of the day.  Drink it in, my friends, it’s summer!

What have I been up to?

The gig at the park in La Veta the weekend before last was a blast!  It was the perfect start to summer for me, playing for a group of old and new friends on a perfect day in the park.  I sang a bunch of Guy Clark songs to honor his memory, as well as a lot of other mountain and western songs and a bundle of my own tunes.

I’ve also been rehearsing with the band from La Veta that I play the Jelly Jam with.  We have a gig next week and a couple over Independence Day weekend - more about those as they draw closer.

I’m also done with the big part of my mom’s estate.  The sale from the moving of all her stuff will be in Pueblo on Santa Fe Ave this month.  There is more info and pictures of some of the stuff here - https://www.estatesales.net/CO/Pueblo/81006/1171410.

What’s up this week?

This Friday I’m performing the Song of Pueblo oratorio at 7:00 with the SoP band in Walsenburg at the Washington Underground Theater.  This should be a really fun evening in a really fine venue.  If you’re in the area please come!  This will be quite a special performance.

That’s it for now.  Next week my calendar starts going crazy with summer gigs.  Check it out at my website if you’re interested in planning where we might rendezvous over the summer.

Best,

Tom

Details this week:

Who:  Tom Munch with Johnny Watson, David Enke, & Alan Polivka
What:  playing, singing, & telling the history of Pueblo at the Song of Pueblo oratorio
Where:  Washington Underground Theater (the old Washington School) 5th and Russell, Walsenburg
When:  Friday, June 10, 7:00 pm

Packing, Packing, Packing

No time for a real update because I'm in Nebraska packing up my mom's

stuff with the estate company trucks coming in tomorrow.  I've never seen so many boxes. 

Saturday I'll be playing at the park in La Veta 12-2 on Ryus Ave. If you're out and about please come on by. 

Best always,

Tom

Slowing and Wisening

I've noticed over the past couple years that I'm starting to slow and hopefully wisen a little bit. Things don't come to me as quickly as they used to, and I'm not as fast off the trigger as I once was. I like to see this as the result of growing wiser and more tolerant, and in part that is true. I also know that it is because my brain takes just a tick longer to register and let me react, and hopefully this makes me consider my options more thoughtfully. I really do see this in my life, as I do think about things more than I used to - I know some folks think that maybe all I do is think, what with my rambling missives. But seriously I do have some things that go over my head, and I'm going to take this badge of my years as a good thing and not the early signs of senility. :-) And I see this in my music that I'll be performing this Friday off my new album. The songs are more thoughtful and simpler than anything I've done in the past - stripped down to the barest melodies, emotions, and accompaniments. Think of it as a slower and wiser collection! ;-)

What have I been up to?

The Jelly Jam I wrote about in La Veta was a blast! When you put five seasoned players together you come up with a very nice stew of music, and that's what we had - from old to new and in between. We'll do it again on June 17 at Sammie's. 

What's up this week?

Friday will be my Album-Release Party at Magpies 7-10. I've been immersing myself in these tunes, and am quite pleased at how they came out. I know that may sound funny, but when you're in the middle of recording them you don't have the perspective to judge them completely, and a little time reveals the truth. So Friday I'll perform them at Magpies in all their glory and with a little extra spice thrown in because I can't perform the same thing twice in exactly the same way. I expect that it will be very busy, so get there early if you want a seat, otherwise it's SRO (Standing Room Only) and you'll have to eat upstairs. I'm SO looking forward to this!

That's it for this week. I'm still in Nebraska working on packing boxes and stacking them with my siblings, so I'm stealing time to update you and practice my songs, and I should be in rare form Friday night. 

Thanks for all,

Tom

Details this week:

Who:  Tom Munch

What:  playing & singing

Where:  Magpies, 229 S. Union, Pueblo.  719-542-5522

When:  Friday, May 6, 7-10 pm

The Little Things

I was walking down the hall and marveling at the turquoise color on one of our cabinets, and it struck me again how much I love the little things in life. Beautiful colors and rich textures and golden light - those and so many more simple things just reach out and grab me. Maybe I'm just simple (and maybe that's okay), but I've always been thrilled at the world around me - even if it was just the shine dancing on the water or the roughness of a pebble. I forget to let these things remind me how much I love this life. Sharing joy and love and music are three key ingredients to enjoying life, and these spill right out of the little things all around us. Enjoy!

What happened last week?

Last week was Song of Pueblo all week - rehearsals and then great shows. Thursday we did 3 1-hour shows for schools and seniors, and we were thrilled at the response that even the littlest gave - here's to historically inspiring the young (and old). Then Friday, Saturday, and Sunday were full shows for wonderful groups of friends from today and yesterday that really gave us a workout. The dancers were outstanding, and except for me forgetting to introduce the band on Sunday (D-oh!), the shows were stellar tributes to Pueblo and the area.

What's up this week?

I'm playing Friday for a fun event in La Veta at Sammie's that we're calling "No Jelly, Just Jam" that is sure to be a good time. This is a band of mostly La Veta musicians put together to play for the Spanish Peaks Music Festival in July that will be playing some warm-up gigs in La Veta to have fun, give us some practice, and generate enthusiasm for the festival. If you're in La Veta Friday, we promise you a "Jammin'" good time of rock and country tunes.

That's it for this week. I'll be off next weekend getting ready for my album-release party at Magpies May 6th and spending more time in Nebraska on my mom's house.

Best always,

Tom

Details this week:

Who: Tom Munch playing with Jason White, George Galvan, Cass Cruz, Trudy Price, and Dennis Mills
What: No Jelly, Just Jam - playing music to dance to and enjoy
Where:  Sammie's in La Veta - just northeast of the tracks on the highway into town
When:  Friday, April 22, 7-10

Music Is My Magic Refuge

I just realized (again) that I use music as a refuge when I feel wrapped up in the world and its problems. Music does so much for me - from both sides - playing and listening. It really does seem like it has magic beyond what seems imaginable. The main thing it does for me is to give me a playground where I not only escape for the moment, but also get to experiment with rhythm and pitch and intensity. It lets me plug myself into a storyline with emotions that I have the opportunity to express and present to the listener and to myself. There is a whole world within a song and the elements that comprise it, and that world is amazing to be a part of. I count myself lucky every time I pick up a guitar or turn on my music player.

What have I been up to?

Magpies two weeks ago was great fun! I ended up playing a variety of songs since I hadn't announced any theme. It was quite an exploration.

Song of Pueblo with Daniel Valdez was fun as well - playing for the senior class of Chavez Huerta High School and their staff and supporters.

What's up this week?

This week we perform the Song of Pueblo multiple times at the great Sangre de Cristo Arts Center Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. We have been doing a lot of rehearsing with the dance instructors from the Arts Center and also the dancers from Grupo Folklorico, and have made some really beautiful changes with full lighting and new video and stills with the addition of the dancers, and I'd love for you to see it. Thursday we do three "Nutshell" one-hour condensed shows for students and seniors at 9:00, 10:30, and 12:00. This is a great opportunity to see a healthy taste of the show for only $5, and there are still tickets available as well as possible seats for walkups at the shows. Friday we do an evening show at 7:30, then Saturday a matinee at 2:00, and Sunday a matinee at 2:00. Prices for the full show are $25 ($20 for Arts Center members). We are so looking forward to this series of shows, and we'd love to see you there!

That's it for this week. Remember that my album-release party for my new "Guitar" album will be May 6th at Magpies!

Best,

Tom

Details this week:

Who: Tom Munch with Johnny Watson, David Enke, and Alan Polivka
What: playing and singing the Song of Pueblo oratorio
Where: Sangre de Cristo Arts Center, 210 N Santa Fe, Pueblo, CO 719-295-7200
When: Thursday, April 14, 9:00 am, 10:30 am, 12:00pm "Nutshell", $5
Friday, April 15, 7:30 pm, Saturday, April 16, 2:00 pm, Sunday, April 17, 2:00 pm, $25 ($20 for Arts Center members)

New Friend

We got a new friend in the house, a collie mix one-year-old pup we're calling Beau, who is redefining our daily life in new ways, and it makes me remember what joy is in new ways. It's amazing how pets can affect our demeanor. They are happy and sensitive and can take us back to the present moment all at once. It's wonderful and a delight to spend time with him - even now as he's pushing my iPad out of my hands. It makes me remember that it's the little things in life that are worthwhile. I always know this, but it's nice to have a reminder now and then. 

I'm keeping this short because we are in Nebraska going though more of my mom's house, and it's time to get to work today. 

What has happened since last I wrote?

Magpies was a blast last time! With the new album out I had a lot of folks come out to purchase it and share in the excitement of new creativity. I'm still not practiced up on the new tunes enough to run through more than a few, but I gave it a shot. The official album-release party won't be until the first Friday of May, so I'll be polished on them by then. 

What is up for this week?

Friday night will be Magpies 7-10, and I'll be rarin' to go after a week going through the house here, so expect some energy and fun if you make it out. Then Saturday I'm playing a private show of Song of Pueblo with the band and Daniel Valdez that will get us ready for our big shows in the middle of the month at Sangre de Cristo Arts Center. These will be big and exciting shows, and we are looking forward to them. Tickets are available at the Arts Center box office if you're interested. Shows are Friday night, Saturday afternoon, and Sunday afternoon and night. 

That's it for this week. Thank you for supporting my musical adventures. Now I have a little floppy-eared friend needing a walk. 

Best always,

Tom

Details this week:

Who:  Tom Munch

What:  playing & singing

Where:  Magpies, 229 S. Union, Pueblo.  719-542-5522

When:  Friday, April 1, 7-10 pm

New Album is Ready

I wrote that my new album had arrived on Monday, and I have it set up now for ordering if you're interested in it.

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CD

I set up an easy PayPal link where you can buy from me directly by credit card or PayPal for the CD here:

https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_s-xclick&hosted_button_id=4XHTKKCFB2ZX6

Just click on the link and it will take you to a secure PayPal page with one CD already set up with shipping ($15 for the CD plus $1.50 shipping for a $16.50 total).  You just put in your address and credit card information, and it will send me an email with your info so I can send one out to you.  It's really simple, and it is working well so far.

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DOWNLOAD

If you'd rather download the album, it is available on CD Baby right now at this link:

http://www.cdbaby.com/cd/tommunch11

You can also buy the CD there if you'd rather not buy it directly from me.

It will be available on iTunes probably later today (the photo of the album is already showing up there) and on all other download sites this week or next.  I do get a bigger portion of the sale if you buy it from CD Baby.

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STREAMING

I expect it to be up on Apple Music, Spotify, and all other streaming services this week or next.  It may be up later today.

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ARTWORK AND LINER NOTES

If you DOWNLOAD or STREAM it you can still have all the liner notes and artwork from the CD at this link:

http://tommunch.com/Tom_Munch_Guitar_Liner_Notes_for_web.jpg

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RELEASE PARTY

I’ll be having an Album-Release party at Magpies in Pueblo on May 6 from 7-10.

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Thank you so much for your support and encouragement on this project.  I’ve really enjoyed doing it, and I hope you’ll enjoy the music that came from it.

Best always,

Tom

New Album and What It Means

My instrumental guitar album arrives today, and I’m contemplating what it means.  Every accomplishment signals a new chapter of some kind.  This album was an interesting project.  I approached it because I found that people really liked my instrumental songs in a different way than my vocal songs, and also because they allow the listener to interpret the song in whatever way strikes them.  I know what was in my mind when I wrote each one, but sometimes the song transforms when it’s played to a different emotion and message.  I originally intended to write songs akin to jazz standards, but my muse was more interested in pure folk melodies, and so I went with that.  When I sat down with the guitar to write I let my fingers and experience lead the way - occasionally giving a little nudge one way or another.  I have not always been confident of my guitar abilities, so I had to trust my intuition to get the songs right in the studio.  This means that I have to do a lot of rehearsing to play them live, and so you may see me have to concentrate a little harder than usual when I play them.  The album arrives in the middle of tax preparations, estate figuring, Song of Pueblo rehearsals, and thinking about a new pet, so there’s plenty of competition for attention.  As a result, I won’t really be promoting it until May when I’ll try to get some press and do my CD-release party.  The CD-release party will by May 6th at Magpies 7-10.  You’re welcome to purchase a CD before that, of course, and you can drop me a note where I can ship and bill you, or you can send me a PayPal to my regular email address - tom@tommunch.com.  It can also be purchased at cdbaby.com, and I hope to have it up on iTunes, Google Play, Spotify, and every other digital download and streaming service this week.  The CD will be $15 plus shipping, and the digital download will be $9.99.  I’m excited to have you hear it!

UPDATE - IT JUST ARRIVED!

What have I been up to?

Magpies was a blast the last time out.  It was packed, and everyone really contributed to making it fun.  I did a lot of Irish tunes, and snuck in a few cowboy songs too as promised.

On a sad note, the friend I wrote about last time who was going through a third bout with cancer passed.  Another friend who was a musician who played in Pueblo quite a bit, Gary Wickizer, aka Mo Kauffey, passed recently too.  It’s been a tough year on musicians so far.  I’ll miss these friends.

I also met the new owners of the La Veta Inn last Friday, and we’re trying to come up with some dates to play there this summer.

What am I doing this week?

Friday is Magpies again 7-10, and I haven’t thought about what songs I’m going to do at all yet.  If I feel ready I may do a few of my new instrumental songs.  Either way it will be a memorable evening as always, and I really love to play for you there.

That’s it for this week.  I’m back to all those things I wrote about that are competing for time.

Best always,

Tom

Details this week:

Who:  Tom Munch
What:  playing & singing
Where:  Magpies, 229 S. Union, Pueblo.  719-542-5522
When:  Friday, March 18, 7-10 pm

Choose Joy

I’ve been thinking about life again.  I have a friend from school who is going on a third bout with cancer.  Her family posted a great picture over the weekend of her in bed with everyone in T-shirts surrounding her that read “choose joy.”  I think she has tapped into what is most important in life - especially in the midst of stressful times - choosing to be grateful for life and loved ones.  This makes us joyful and happy.  It’s so easy to focus on what’s bad in the world and our lives, but time and again the ones who are happy and loving win the day.  In the long run isn’t that all that matters?

What have I been up to the last few weeks?

I played for the Odd Fellows group in Cañon City a couple weeks ago for a sweetheart dinner which went really well.  It was lightly attended, but we had a very good time sharing food and music.

Then Magpies was a great time doing a big mix of music for a varied group.  I love playing at Magpies.

We had a great rehearsal at the Arts Center preparing for the Song of Pueblo shows in April there.  We got to try out a fogger and a hazer as well as trying our new stage arrangement with risers and the Arts Center dancers.  This is going to be a special show!

Where am I this week?

Friday I’m at Magpies 7-10 down under again.  I always enjoy everyone there, and I’d love to see you if you can make it.  I’ll sneak a few Irish songs in preparation for St. Patrick’s Day, and I’m thinking of doing some cowboy songs.

What’s on the horizon line?

The Song of Pueblo shows are shaping up really well for April 18-20.  Call the Arts Center box office for tickets.  719-295-7200

My instrumental guitar album is almost done.  I posted a photo of the artwork to my Facebook and Twitter feeds today which you might have seen.  Here are links if you want see:
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/Tom-Munch-SingerSongwriter-138479020886/
Twitter - https://twitter.com/TomMunch
The mastering is done but for a final listen too.  I may have this in hand and ready for a CD release at Magpies in April.

I have a bunch of summer bookings as well even though I’m going to have to take some time off to wrap up my mom’s estate.  You can see those on my calendar on my website - http://tommunch.com.

That’s it for this week.  Thanks for you.

Best,

Tom

Details this week:

Who:  Tom Munch
What:  playing & singing
Where:  Magpies, 229 S. Union, Pueblo.  719-542-5522
When:  Friday, March 29, 7-10 pm

Keeping Focus

I’m wanting to write about keeping focused this week.  I find as I go through this year that it’s really easy for me to lose track of either what I’m working on in a project or what I’m heading towards in general in this chapter of my life.  Of course, I expected some soul-searching activity after my mother’s passing, and age also leads to some fuzziness of direction sometimes, but as I weigh the important bits of my life I find that daily I have to determine just where to point myself.  Sometimes this is kind of nice (if I’m not bouncing from crisis to crisis) to go with the flow of each day and let my time be spent where my interest lies.  But I have a lot of interests, and I could easily go down the rabbit hole of the putterer (and I really want to save that for my old age! ☺).  So what do I do to bring some focus into my life each day?  Well, I have a running list of to-do’s that help somewhat, but that sometimes is just busy putterer work, so the best thing for me seems to be to look at the big picture again of what brings joy and love to myself and those around me.  That is a very broad view that pulls me back to where I want to be at this point in my journey, and then I can dig down to the level I need for today.  Just a thought that helps me focus.  How about you?

What have I been up to?

Magpies was a lot of fun the last time out.  We did a bunch of variety including some fun Motown songs and Glenn Frey tunes.  Then I had a bunch of Valentine’s gigs with some Mardi Gras tunes thrown in for good measure.  Highlights included playing a Valentine’s Day dinner in Cañon City for the First Christian Church ladies.  I even got to play a wonderful private party at the Songbird Cellars on Union in Pueblo - a really cool venue for live music and wine if you haven’t been there yet!

What’s up for this week?

I’m playing Magpies Friday 7-10, and I haven’t decided what direction to go yet tune-wise.  Any ideas?  I’ll try not to “jump the gun” on Irish tunes until March, even though I’d love to sing some.

I also have a private sweetheart dinner at the Oddfellows in Cañon City for any of you that might have a connection there.  They’re a great group of folks that I always enjoy.

That’s about it for now.  The preparations for the Song of Pueblo at the Arts Center the weekend of April 15-17 are in full swing.  It should be a great series of special shows with many additions that you won’t see anywhere else.  Get tickets at the Arts Center box office as soon as you can.

Best always,

Tom

Details this week:

Who:  Tom Munch
What:  playing & singing
Where:  Magpies, 229 S. Union, Pueblo.  719-542-5522
When:  Friday, February 19, 7-10 pm

What Makes Us Who We Are?

I spent last weekend and the weekend before going through stuff at my mom's house and then going through the boxes of toys and papers I brought back, and it's really amazing what triggers memory and reaction. Countless times I would run across a piece of a toy or a discarded note that would bring back some fleeting feeling from 50 years ago. It was uncanny the way I would react as if time hadn't passed. And as I paged through my early life I was reminded of how I changed over the years and of what things influenced me. There was joy and pain, achievements and guilt, and reminders of friends and watershed events. So many things stay with me from those times, and yet I also changed and made definite path choices as I reached adulthood. I believe that I choose every morning the kind of person I will be, but it's heartening to see that I carry the things that formed me close at hand as well, and it's thrilling to know that those memories are still there - just waiting to awakened. Now, anyone want some old Hot Wheels accessories?

What have I been up to the last few weeks?

Magpies was a blast the last time out. Lots of good friends were there, and we did dive into the oldies a bit that I had talked about. I love doing those old tunes, and I'm finding that there are less people I can sing them to every day. Then the wedding I talked about playing "Carry On" at was beautiful and went off without a hitch, no pun intended. Congrats again, Briana!

What am I up to this week?

Friday I'm back at Magpies 7-10 for what should be a good time. I'm not sure what I'll sing - maybe love songs with Valentines Day coming up. Either way I look forward to it. I've been doing more energetic songs lately for some of my facilities, so maybe we'll do some rock and soul.

What's in the plan for the year?

My instrumental album is coming along. I need to put together the artwork and finish the mastering, but it sounds pretty good, and I'm proud of what I wrote.

I won't be booking quite as much this year since I need to travel to Nebraska regularly to finish up my mom's estate, but I do have some interesting gigs I hope to pick up. I will be doing several Song of Pueblo shows at the Sangre de Cristo Arts Center in April that should be great. I'm hoping to talk to the new owner at the La Veta Inn about playing there. Hopefully I'll be back at the Yellow Pine, and I will be playing for the scouts traveling to Philmont again. In addition I have a new contact in the Springs that may see me more often playing up there. There will be a few festival and concert gigs I'll be telling you about as we approach the summer. It's all good, and I look forward to it. I'll probably be doing another online concert from my living room at some point too.

That's about it for this week.  Come on out if you can. I love to play for you and share a good time.

Best always,

Tom

Details this week:

Who:  Tom Munch
What:  playing & singing
Where:  Magpies, 229 S. Union, Pueblo.  719-542-5522
When:  Friday, February 5, 7-10 pm

What Does the New Year Mean?

We've just finished the first full week of the new year. Usually I'd be feverishly planning my year and coming up with cool ideas for the spring and summer. But I'm feeling differently about the year this time around. Part of that is because I know I can't make big commitments until I've finished settling my mom's estate. Part of that is because I've had a change of motivation - kind of. What do I mean? I've always had a burning passion to be on the path to somewhere - not really knowing where that was, but I'm now a little more content to be where I am. I'm not sure how to really make that clear. Maybe it's age, but I'm realizing that enjoying the place on the journey is as important as not only the destination, but also the journey itself. That's a little twist on what I've always accepted - that the journey was more important than the destination. Now I see that a point on the journey is very worthwhile as well. I've always loved Tolkien's Hobbit books, and part of that is because he was not afraid to let his characters stop along the way for an extended stay. I can see real value in that now, and I'm ready to explore and enjoy. 

What all happened since I last wrote?

I had a pretty good holiday season - playing for a few special events as well as a really enjoyable sing-along at Magpies a few weeks ago. It was great to see family and enjoy some traditions - especially since it was the first year my mom wasn't part of it. 

What's up for this week?

Friday I'm back at Magpies to start the new year. I haven't decided what kind of music to do, but I'm itching to do some old standards and some folk music, so maybe that will be the theme. Whatever it ends up being, it will be a grand time, so please come out if you can. 

Saturday I have a wedding for a woman that I met when she was a little girl, and I'm really looking forward to playing for her and her family. I'm even doing an instrumental version of Kansas' "Carry On"!

That's it for this week. Hope your new year is starting out great!

Best always,

Tom

Details this week:

Who:  Tom Munch

What:  playing & singing

Where:  Magpies, 229 S. Union, Pueblo.  719-542-5522

When:  Friday, January 15, 7-10 pm