In-Between Time

We are in that in-between time over the holidays that is always interesting. As a kid I loved this time because we were out of school with new toys and all our friends to play with and have winter adventures with - like sledding and ice skating. As a teenager it was going to movies or heading out on a ski trip. As a young adult it was a time of traveling to see friends and family. When I began working it became a time of working and re-jiggering for the new year with excitement and planning. As I age it has become a time of reflection and different planning. COVID has certainly put a spin on that as far as messing with planning, but I’m learning to live with it. Every day is a gift, and that is more evident now than ever. I am enjoying losing myself in books and movies. So in this in-between time I just finished “1491” which talks about the Native Americans and their amazing societies and advancements before white folks came here. If it wasn’t for European diseases the world would be a very different place today. Most of the food we grow and eat found its origins in the fantastic agriculture of the New World. I’m also reading a book called “Basin and Range” which talks about the geology of North America in a very engaging way. I’m also looking forward to watching the “Get Back” documentary about the making of the Beatles’ “Let It Be” album. There is much to enjoy and savor no matter what life brings us. The key is to keep putting love and joy out into our everyday lives.

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What have I been up to?

I had many senior facilities to play for last week. The Christmas spirit was flowing, and we exchanged many smiles (through masks) and good wishes.

My Monday Christmas lunch show for a local Pueblo church went very well. I was a little hesitant to play out so much this last couple of weeks, but people were respectful and careful for the most part, and I just hope that very few get sick from all the getting together over the holidays.

My Thursday online show from my brother’s went very well. Many of my family members were together (after rapid tests) to enjoy food and gifts and my concert. I had a little camera trouble, so if you watch the show you should be prepared for a blurry picture, but the Christmas vibes were so strong and genuine.

Christmas Day was fairly quiet at home with a few pet gifts and special food and fun.

My Sunday show was sweet as always with such good friends and a few leftover Christmas songs and other favorites. We even did some Christmas blues which was fun.

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What am I up to this week?

My Thursday online show is moved to Friday for New Year’s Eve 7-8:30 mountain time. It’ll be a fun night of end-of-year and party songs. Come on out and celebrate the new year with friends in the comfort and safety of your own home!

My Sunday online show 7-8:30 mountain time will be favorites and requests as always. We have such a kind and caring group of friends at these concerts who always welcome everyone and put out such good energy that it is a joy to be a part of. Come on out and share the joy!

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That’s it for this week. I don’t know what the new year will bring. I’m pretty sure I won’t be back at Gold Dust Saloon to start the year. I think we need to lay low until we see what the omicron variant turns out to be. I have ordered even better masks, and I’m going to try to be more cautious for myself and my senior facilities for a while. Life is still a wonderful thing, but I will do my stuff from home as much as I can for now. I hope we all have a happy and healthy new year.

Best always,

Tom

Who:  Tom Munch 

What:  playing and singing an online concert of party songs for New Year’s Eve

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

When:  Friday, December 31, 7-8:30 pm mountain time 

Who:  Tom Munch 

What:  playing and singing an online concert of favorites 

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

When:  Sunday, January 2, 7-8:30 pm mountain time

Christmas Engulfs Me

I was talking at my concert last night at La Veta Mercantile about how much there is about Christmas that is intertwined through us. It is a time of so many memories, sights, smells, sounds, and tastes that are overwhelming in their intensity and abundance. All of us have memories of favorite foods, cookies, and treats that are part of the season. We also have memories of the smell of pine and fireplaces and peppermint and so much more. Think of the many sights of twinkling lights and snowfall and red, green, and gold decorations and clothing. Add to that the memories, good and bad, of hugs and kisses, seeing relatives, losing relatives, and special moments and smiles. For me, of course, the sounds are so much of it from the jingling sleigh bells to the choirs and the crunch of snow or the familiar melodies of Christmas songs that are absolutely engrained in us all. Every year we add more to this list of memories and delights as we come around full circle with the seasons and introduce new family members, friends, and even pets to the traditions and joy of the season. It fills me to the brim to think of all these things and to be wrapped up, and yes, engulfed in them. I hope you feel all of this as we head into this final week of Christmas. Merry Christmas, one and all!

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What have I been up to?

It was a very busy week of Christmas shows for my senior facilities, and it was so good to share some cheer and encouragement with these folks.

My Christmas show on Thursday was just a blast with good friends and loads of songs. I didn’t get to do all the requests, but we sure sang some great songs! There just isn’t enough time!

My concert on Saturday at La Veta Mercantile was so rewarding. I won’t lie, I was a little concerned about being in a group with 50+ folks, but everyone was very respectful with mask-wearing and kindness, and I think we were safe enough for the most part. We are fortunate that the omicron variant isn’t more prevalent in Colorado yet.

My Sunday cancer event at the Green Spot in Alamosa was very memorable. There were cancer survivors including very young children as well as many who were grieving a loss this year. Christmas is a tough time to deal with health issues, and it was very special to be part of this event. I especially want to give a shout out to Peyton Sanchez. His smile made the whole evening worthwhile.

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What am I up to this week?

It turns out that I have even more senior facilities to play this week than last - 11. Some are even doing rapid testing which I am happy to do to keep these folks safe. This season is just so important to the health and well-being of everyone.

Monday I’m playing a Christmas luncheon at a local church in Pueblo that should be wonderful. Again I will endeavor to be safe and responsible as I offer some holiday cheer.

Thursday 7-8:30 mountain time my online show will be a Christmas show from my brother and sister-in-law’s house with many of my family in attendance and decorations galore! It will be very nice, and you’re all welcome to tune in and be part of the party.

Saturday I hope we all have a meaningful and special Christmas Day.

Sunday 7-8:30 mountain time my online show will be favorites and requests and a couple of Christmas leftovers. It should be a party as well with all the good feelings of the week between Christmas and New Year’s. Come on out!

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That’s it for this week. Don’t forget that next week I will be doing Friday night instead of Thursday as a New Year’s Eve show that anyone can tune in and enjoy in lieu of going out. We’ll bring the party to your house! Have a wonderful Christmas Day, and I hope to see you soon.

All the best,

Tom

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Who:  Tom Munch 

What:  playing and singing an online concert of Christmas songs from my brother’s house

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

When:  Thursday, December 23, 7-8:30 pm mountain time 

Who:  Tom Munch 

What:  playing and singing an online concert of favorites 

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

When:  Sunday, December 26, 7-8:30 pm mountain time

Taking Stock with Love

I’m taking stock of all that’s going on less than two weeks before Christmas. I’m carrying a little magic for Christmas in my heart and for my senior gigs and my concerts this week. That’s very important since I need to inspire others to feel joy and to embrace the magic for themselves. But there were two musician deaths that I’ve been thinking about - Bill Staines and Mike Nesmith. Both of them wrote songs that affected me, and they made an impact on our world each in his own way. I’m also thinking about the devastation in Kentucky and other places from the tornados. Since I went through a tornado I can relate to the fear, wonder, and uncertainty that comes with this kind of natural force - and even worse when it’s close to a holiday like this. On top of that, there are a myriad of things we all have on our minds from health to family to finances and COVID. It’s important to take stock and accept the place where life finds us, but it’s also important to have a more timeless view of our lives and our arc in our time here. Christmas magic reminds us of what’s truly important though all of our troubles - love and being there for each other and ourselves. There should always be a pulling back for a moment to remember that love is what we’re here for. This realization helps me, and I hope it helps you too.

What have I been up to?

I had six senior facilities last week including one that I haven’t been to but once since COVID began. It was so good to see these folks and catch up! 

Tuesday I played for the Pueblo Newcomers luncheon which was very nice. They are a great group of folks that really enjoy each other. Tuesday I also played for the legislators at the Legislative Academy of the Council of State Governments at the Broadmoor. It’s such a great group of people, and I really enjoyed getting to know some of them and seeing the beautiful holiday decorations at the Broadmoor.

Thursday my online show was doing howling songs - songs about wolves and coyotes that we could howl to. It was so much fun. We’ve been collecting these howling songs for almost two years to sing at 8:00 mountain time for the healthcare workers.

My Sunday online show was very nice as always with such good friends doing requests, a few songs for Mike Nesmith, a few songs for Kentucky, and a couple Christmas songs to get us in the mood for the next two Thursday shows of Christmas music. 

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What am I up to this week?

This is the big week for the most holiday music since it’s the last full week before Christmas. It starts with doing nine senior facilities. Many of these will be their Christmas party for the season. I’m honored to get to play these with appearances from Santa and all the elves spreading good cheer among the residents.

Thursday my online show 7-8:30 mountain time will be doing Christmas music. I’ve had a lot of requests for new songs which I can hopefully learn in time. I’ll mix a lot of old favorites in with them. This and also the next Thursday will be very sweet Christmas fun.

Saturday 7-9 I’m playing a holiday show at the La Veta Mercantile in La Veta. This is always a special time in La Veta with such good friends and at such a perfect venue for music. I’d love to have you there if you’re in the area. There’ll be some surprises and holiday energy from me along with some sing-alongs that everyone can join in on. I plan to really pump up the Christmas spirit, so if that sounds good to you then come on out! Tickets are $16 in advance and $18 at the door. You could read more about the event on the La Veta Mercantile Facebook page. 

https://fb.me/e/YPw6JIGi

Sunday 5:30-8:30 I’m playing at the Green Spot in Alamosa, Colo., for the San Luis Cancer Relief Fund’s 9th Annual Memories & Reflections. It is a time of remembrance and friendship for those who have had cancer in their lives. Donations of $10.00 (or any amount) are accepted with all monies donated to the San Luis Valley Cancer Relief Fund, and there will be brisket and beer and my music. They also ask that you bring a dish to share if you have time as well. There’s more info on the Facebook event page. Please come if you’re in the Alamosa area.

https://fb.me/e/2JVJpvf9r

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That’s it for this week. Next week on Thursday I’m doing a special Christmas show from my brother and sister-in-law’s house with lots of Christmas decorations and a live audience of my family after we exchange gifts and have some dinner. It should be full of Christmas cheer and warm holiday friendship. More next week!

Be good and be safe,

Tom

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Who:  Tom Munch 

What:  playing and singing an online concert of Christmas songs 

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

When:  Thursday, December 16, 7-8:30 pm mountain time 

Who:  Tom Munch

What:  playing and singing a holiday concert

Where:  La Veta Mercantile, 300 South Main Street, La Veta 719-742-3387

When:  Saturday, December 18, 7-9 pm

Who:  Tom Munch

What:  playing and singing for Memories and Reflections for San Luis Cancer Relief

Where:  Green Spot, 711 State Street, Alamosa 

When:  Sunday, December 19, 5:30-8:30 pm

Every Year

In early December every year I take stock of my frame of mind and Christmas spirit. This year is not as worrisome as last year before we had vaccines for COVID, but of course we’re still not out of the woods with that. We haven’t had any snow and little cold weather here in southern Colorado to put us in the mood for Christmas. We’ve done our decorating, and I’m doing Christmas shows for my senior facilities now. Still I find that I’m having to push myself a little to get into the sparkling magic that always overtakes me for Christmas. Traditions and their emotions are amazing things that we have created to move us through seasons and times of plenty and want. It’s easier for me than it is for many who struggle through this time of year with expectations of joy and letdowns of sorrow. We should always know that we are loved and that nothing can ultimately separate us from the joy of life and being. Dwelling in those thoughts can bring the spark that lights each celebration of tradition with wonder and excitement. I hope this season finds you with fullness in your heart for your loved ones and those you meet in your day.

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What have I been up to?

I had 6 senior facilities last week, but one had to be cancelled for COVID again. This is certainly a tough time for folks to not have visitors and entertainment. The one I had on Saturday I hadn’t been to since September, so it was so great to see them again.

My Thursday online show doing Bing Crosby tunes was a lot of fun. The time I spent preparing and studying his songs was almost as cool as playing the songs for the audience. I can get lost in that era pretty quickly.

My online show on Sunday was also very nice with so many good friends and good requests. I love playing for these folks.

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What am I up to this week? 

Tuesday will be a busy day with shows for the Newcomers group in Pueblo and also for the Legislative Academy of the Council of State Governments that I haven’t played for in two years at the Broadmoor. These are both wonderful groups of folks that I’m honored to play for.

Thursday my online show 7-8:30 mountain time will be a howling theme. I’ll feature songs about coyotes and wolves and howling dogs that we’ve used for our 8:00 howling for healthcare workers that we’ve done since COVID started. It should be a fun night. I’m not saying that we’ll howl in every song, but it’ll be fun to do all these neat songs I’ve learned over the past two years.

Sunday my online show 7-8:30 mountain time will be the favorites and requests I continuously work on for folks. I’ve picked up a lot of Christmas requests lately, and I’ll be mixing in some of these even though I’ll be doing holiday songs for the next couple Thursdays after this one. This season is so short and there’s no way I can get in all the great Christmas songs that I know and have been requested.

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That’s it for this week. I put the wrong date for my La Veta Mercantile concert next week in my last blog. It’s actually 7:00 Saturday, the 18th and not the 16th as I had written. I hope you’ll come out if you’re in the area. Stay safe and enjoy this holiday spirit - even if you have to open your own heart to the magic.

Best always,

Tom

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Who:  Tom Munch 

What:  playing and singing an online concert of howling songs 

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

When:  Tuesday, December 9, 7-8:30 pm mountain time 

Who:  Tom Munch 

What:  playing and singing an online concert of favorites 

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

When:  Sunday, December 12, 7-8:30 pm mountain time

Into the Past

I’m diving into the past this week to do research for my Thursday online show about Bing Crosby. I like to know a little bit about the times and situations that brought about people's careers and the songs they sang. It helps so I can get an authentic sense for the music and the delivery. Bing had a different path than you might guess. Would you think that he grew up in Spokane, Washington? That’s just one of the interesting facts about Bing’s life. I often think about what people were like in this country and what the world was like in different periods. Part of that is because I wonder what my ancestors were doing and thinking. Not all of it is pleasant, of course. One of the more enlightening things when we were going though family books and notes after my mother's death was seeing some of the prejudices and biases that were prevalent 100 years ago and more. I do think that we are improving as a species although it goes in fits and starts. So I don’t have anything bold or profound to say this week in relation to the past other than there is value in studying and learning from it. The music really helps to relate to it in a personal way, and that’s what this Thursday's show featuring Bing Crosby will be all about. 

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What have I been up to?

My senior facilities went well last week. Luckily none of them had to be cancelled for COVID. Music and interaction means so much to these wonderful folks. 

My online show Tuesday with songs about planes, trains, and automobiles was great fun. There were some surprises, and I think everyone had a good time. I love my audience. 

Thanksgiving went well for us. We enjoyed a quiet day at home with the pets and some good family food. I think this is the first year we didn’t watch hardly any parades or football. 

My online show Sunday was well-attended with lots of good friends and good music. There such a great depth of music and friendship we can share, and each week seems to top the one before. 

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What am I up to this week?

Wednesday I won’t be at the Gold Dust Saloon. They have staff now, but licensing costs are making this gig more difficult for the venue. We’re going to take off the whole month of December, so there won’t be a gig on December 15th either. It’s probably for the best with COVID numbers increasing and the new variant coming. I don’t mind staying safer for my seniors. 

Thursday my online show 7-8:30 mountain time will be doing the afore-mentioned music of Bing Crosby. Bing was very prolific, and there is so much material to choose from. Of course,  we'll do at least a couple of his Christmas songs to start the holiday season, but there will be other songs from musicals and movies and so much more. For instance, did you know that Bing made a cowboy album and an Irish album? It will be a memorable evening. Come on by if you can. 

Sunday my online show 7-8:30 will be doing favorites and requests as always. I spend most of my day Sunday as well as several hours during the week preparing music and listening to songs to get ready for these shows. It’s a labor of love learning songs that mean so much to my audience. I do a lot of songs in the spur of the moment as well. Please come by if you can.

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That’s it for this week. Don’t forget that I have a holiday concert on December 16th at the La Veta Mercantile as well as many appearances around the area even with COVID. My calendar is always up to date on my website - http://tommunch.com/calendar. Stay safe and enjoy the holiday season. 

Best always,

Tom

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Who:  Tom Munch 

What:  playing and singing an online concert of Bing Crosby songs 

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

When:  Tuesday, December 2, 7-8:30 pm mountain time 

Who:  Tom Munch 

What:  playing and singing an online concert of favorites 

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

When:  Sunday, December 5, 7-8:30 pm mountain time

With a Song in Your Heart

Hello,

I’m quoting an old Rodger’s and Hart song, “With a Song in My Heart” today to ponder an idea. I quite often say during my senior shows that the last song I sing for them will be an earworm that they will have in their heads for the rest of the day. I sure find that this is true for myself. I’ll get a song stuck in my head that will dominate my subconscious for hours - especially if I’m taking a walk and the song has a good beat to walk to. I also find and have written about before that the first thoughts I have in the day seem to frame my whole day whether they’re angry or kind. So I’m proposing to try an experiment to put a song in your mind or heart at the beginning of the day that reflects kindness or goodwill towards others and towards ourselves and then see what happens in your morning and your day. I know that music has real power, and I believe we can harness it to create the kind of world we want to see each day. In this week of Thanksgiving it could be really helpful. How about something for today like “I Can See Clearly Now” by Johnny Nash?!

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What have I been up to?

My senior homes went very well last week although I did have one that had to cancel due to COVID. The residents are so frustrated - especially with it being so close to Thanksgiving. If they can’t lift the quarantine before Thanksgiving then they won’t get to see their families over the holiday.

My Thursday online show doing ‘50s songs was more fun than should be allowed. There were just so many upbeat songs at the start of rock ’n roll and in that time of hopefulness after World War II.  We will definitely do them again sometime in the near future!

My Sunday show doing favorites turned into a request-slinging good time. We had a great group of folks who were having such a fine time with each other and the music, and it was a joy to be part of.

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What am I up to this week?

I’m doing 7 senior facilities this week even with the holiday. Hopefully none of them will have to cancel due to COVID. I wish there were more Thanksgiving songs.

Tuesday will be my weekly online theme show 7-8:30 mountain time since Thursday is Thanksgiving and I figured that people would have plans for Thanksgiving evening. We’ll be doing songs about “Planes, Trains and Automobiles” in honor of the Thanksgiving-themed movie of the same name from John Candy and Steve Martin. The movie is from 1987, and although it is a little dated I still enjoy the message of friendship and family that the movie hits out of the park. Come on out if you’d like to hear some good songs with good people.

Thursday have a Happy Thanksgiving! 🦃

Sunday 7-8:30 mountain time will be my weekly favorites and requests show as always. This last Sunday was such a wonderful time, and you never know who will show up and what songs we’ll sing to make the night. You’re always welcome.

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What is upcoming?

I’m playing a couple of special events in December although I’m trying to be cautious about gigs during COVID. 

December 18 at 7:00 I’m playing a holiday concert at the La Veta Mercantile in La Veta. Tickets are $16 advance and $18 at the door. If you’re in the La Veta area or would like to take a drive I’d love to see you. I’m not sure if there are vaccination or mask restrictions although I’ve been vaccinated and will be wearing a mask when I interact with folks. I’ll be singing Christmas songs, and there’ll be a couple to sing along to as well.

December 19 at 5:00 I’m playing a cancer fundraiser at the Green Spot in Alamosa. I don’t know all the details about this event, but it is for a good cause and I’d love to see you if you’re in the San Luis Valley. This should be a very worthwhile evening!

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That’s it for this week. Do you have a song in your heart for today? Please try it and see if it makes a difference.

Best always,

Tom

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Who:  Tom Munch 

What:  playing and singing an online concert of songs about “Planes, Trains, and Automobiles”

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

When:  Tuesday, November 23, 7-8:30 pm mountain time 

Who:  Tom Munch 

What:  playing and singing an online concert of favorites 

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

When:  Sunday, November 28, 7-8:30 pm mountain time

Obsession

I wanted to write about obsession today. I tend to be a little obsessive about things I’m working on or exploring. That’s not a bad thing when it comes to music because it lends to being a little more meticulous when it comes to learning complicated guitar and vocal parts. When I was a kid a had some obsessions that weren’t as healthy like having to repeat things I did with one hand the same with the other hand. I also got obsessed with not stepping on cracks in the sidewalk. I think that’s just the kind of things that kids get hooked on while their brain is still developing the pathways and habits that will serve them in adulthood. But as an adult I do go down rabbit holes that are not that uncommon - collecting different items like hats or guitars. My latest obsession has been with ceramic safety knives. I cut myself with my little multitool knife while setting up for a party this Fall and trying to open a pre-packaged shrimp container. This led me to looking for safer knives or openers where it wasn’t so easy to cut myself. I have now bought more ceramic safety cutters than anyone needs in my quest to find the perfect one for me. Of course this thing is encouraged through internet advertising and Amazon prompts! Anyway, it’s just another example of the obsessions that are so easy to adopt. So what’s your obsession? How do you deal with the feverish desire to collect a bunch of things? I could name a dozen I’ve been through in the last decade. 😀

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What have I been up to?

Unfortunately I did have one senior facility have to cancel for a COVID case again last week. It looks like I’ll have to go back to some virtual shows again for some of them.

My Thursday online show doing historical songs was a lot of fun. I have learned so many historical songs for so many different events and places I’ve played over the years, and it was a pleasure to get to share them with the folks. I think many people were surprised at how many songs they knew and remembered the words to.

My Sunday online show had several new songs to me and several old favorites. I love playing for the wonderful group that has assembled for these online concerts so much.

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What am I up to this week?

I have eight senior facilities to play for this week including some that have reopened after COVID cases. They are so eager to have people come in and give them cheer and hope, and I’m happy to provide it.

My scheduled Wednesday show at the Gold Dust Saloon has been cancelled because they are closing on weekday nights due to short staffing. I’m sorry I won’t get to see my local friends as we have been able to see each other this Fall so much. With elevated COVID cases it may turn out to be a blessing in disguise. We’ll determine if we can have December gigs at Gold Dust after Thanksgiving.

My Thursday online show 7-8:30 will be doing ‘50s songs. We did ‘50s songs a year ago, and it was so much fun bopping along to so many great tunes. I’ll get out a couple ‘50s guitars and do this up right! I hope you’ll tune in and sing along.

My Sunday online show 7-8:30 will be favorites and requests as usual. I’ve had some really good requests of late, and I’ve really enjoyed learning the new songs that my great audience is acquainting me with. I’ll hope you’ll tune in to that as well.

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That’s it for this week. Next week I’ll do my theme show on Tuesday since Thanksgiving is the following Thursday. The theme will be “Planes, Trains, and Automobiles” following the Thanksgiving-themed movie from several years ago with Steve Martin and John Candy. I’ll sing songs about, what else, planes, trains, and automobiles. Hope you are well and happy and are preparing for the holiday season.

Best always,

Tom

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Who:  Tom Munch 

What:  playing and singing an online concert of ‘50s songs

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

When:  Thursday, November 18, 7-8:30 pm mountain time 

Who:  Tom Munch 

What:  playing and singing an online concert of favorites 

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

When:  Sunday, November 21, 7-8:30 pm mountain time

Historical Music

I’m going to do a show of pre-1900s historical music on Thursday, and it has me thinking of all the great songs and history in that first century and more of our nation. And it also has me thinking about my ancestors and the role that music might have played in their lives. First let me say that I am under no illusion that these songs will come across without any irony or possible offense. American history and all history is full of contradictions and pitfalls. I’ll do my best to steer clear. American history has so many periods of music and so many influences. Firstly you have to know that the music of the British Isles is the first influence on colonial music since the original states were under British rule until we established our independence, so that will have some influence on some of the songs I’ll choose. Of course there were pockets of other ethnicities especially since the French and Spanish claimed parts of what became the United States, and there were many Africans brought here as slaves, not to mention the Native Americans who were here before. As you progress through American history you come across many different work songs from miners, pioneers, cowboys, and more as well as songs about historical occurrences, so there’s a wealth of great music there to round out my setlist to 1900. As to my own ancestors, they came from the British Isles on my mother's side mostly before the Revolution, and my dad's side came mostly from Germany in the 1840s. I often wonder whether they were musical or enjoyed the music of their day. We don’t have any instruments passed down from them, and we don’t have stories of musical talent although it’s fair to assume that many folks had some musical talent since they couldn’t hear music often as we can today unless they made it themselves. But I love to imagine them cherishing the same songs that I do from their era. Music plays such a big part of my life, and I hope it delighted and lifted them too. So here’s to some great songs to sing on Thursday. Hope you enjoy them!

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What have I been up to?

My senior shows went well last week although I had another one cancel for COVID after they had just been cleared to do shows again. I really feel for these folks.

Wednesday’s show at Gold Dust was great fun! We had a bunch of good friends (although a few couldn’t make it), and I did another straight three hours of a huge variety of songs. I have to remember to take a break next time so folks can stretch their legs!

Thursday was my online show with original songs, and I have to say that I was finally comfortable doing my own songs for the first time. I tend to be reticent to play my own songs - partly from embarrassment over what I perceive to be sub-standard writing, and partly from shyness since I write pretty personally - baring your soul can be a pretty scary thing. But I knew I was among friends without judgement, and I really enjoyed sharing my songs and stories. I think I might actually pull this thing off!

Sunday was my online show of favorites and requests, and there were some good new songs as well as other favorites from the past two years. This time of learning songs for requests during the pandemic has really acquainted me with some wonderful tunes I never would have had the opportunity to learn, and I’m grateful that this is one of the good things that has come out of this turbulent time.

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What am I up to this week?

I have five senior shows this week. I’m looking forward to seeing the folks!

Thursday my online show 7-8:30 mountain time will be doing historical songs as I wrote about above. I’ve been learning historical songs since high school about many different eras of music in American history to play for museums, historic shows, and events. I can’t wait to dive into them and share them with you. I hope you’ll find them as entertaining and enlightening as I do.

Sunday my online show 7-8:30 mountain time will be the favorites and requests we have grown to love playing. I have had several people send me lists of favorite artists and songs to work on and learn at my leisure, and I really enjoy doing this and then singing them for folks when I see them at my shows. Feel free to do this if you have favorite songs you think I could do well and folks would enjoy hearing.

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That’s all for this week. The holidays are fast approaching, and I hope you’re staying safe and well.

Best always,

Tom

——

Who:  Tom Munch 

What:  playing and singing an online concert of historical songs

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

When:  Thursday, November 11, 7-8:30 pm mountain time 

Who:  Tom Munch 

What:  playing and singing an online concert of favorites 

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

When:  Sunday, November 14, 7-8:30 pm mountain time

Wind in the Sails

I’m thinking about motivation today. I’m wondering where the gumption comes from that allows us to go out every day and accomplish meaningful things. I’ve usually been a pretty driven person. Until COVID hit I was always going from one place to another - racking up 30,000 miles or more on my car annually, and working seven days a week for many weeks out of the year. Sometimes the impetuous to go out was made by the need to pay the mortgage or purchase a piece of gear I needed or wanted. Sometimes the drive was to accomplish a new milestone. Sometimes it was a feeling of obligation or a desire to serve people. Sometimes I really have to frame the situation so that my approach is centered and coming from a good place. It’s interesting how much that makes a difference. It reminds me of an athlete who visualizes the movements and emotions of their sport before they actually perform it. And then there is also the need to be physically and mentally ready to take on new challenges. That makes the motivation flow much more easily. So what will motivate me today and this week? Hmmm…

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What have I been up to?

Last week was a good one, but I had two more senior facilities have to cancel because of COVID cases in their facility - mostly from unvaccinated staff. This puts a lot of strain on the residents with isolation and uncertainty. Although vaccinations are mandatory in nursing facilities, many people are claiming a religious exemption. I wish they would see what it’s doing to those around them. 

My online Halloween show on Thursday was a blast! I did many different songs than people expected, and it was just plain fun to get a little dark and creepy!

My online Sunday show included several more Halloween songs and a bunch of new requests that were quite good. I don’t mention it often enough that my great audience has exposed me to some wonderful new songs with their requests. My cup runneth over!

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What am I up to this week?

Wednesday 6-9 I’ll be back at Gold Dust Saloon in Pueblo for what is turning out to be a wonderful gig. The upstairs balcony is a very cozy place to play music, and everyone is really enjoying it. There is only seating for 22 people upstairs, so get there early if you want to make sure you have a good seat. The music does spill over to the downstairs nicely though, so there really isn’t a bad seat for listening. 

Thursday 7-8:30 mountain time my online show will be doing my own original songs. We haven’t done an evening of my own tunes for a while, so this will be a fun night. I need to brush up on some of my tunes that I don’t play very often, and I’m always a little self-conscious of playing my own material. People are so supportive, and I’m honored to play my own music. 

Sunday 7-8:30 mountain time my online show will be favorites and requests as always. Some of these nights turn into a real happening that surprises me with old friends and acquaintances from distant places and times. It’s turning out to be many evenings that I’m honored just to be a part of. 

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That’s it for this week. I hope my thoughts on motivation help you trim your sails to pick up the wind of your life..

Best always

Tom

——

Who:  Tom Munch

What:  playing & singing

Where:  Gold Dust Saloon, 217 S Union Ave, Pueblo, 719-545-0741

When:  Wednesday, November 3, 6-9 pm

Who:  Tom Munch 

What:  playing and singing an online concert of original songs

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

When:  Thursday, November 4, 7-8:30 pm mountain time 

Who:  Tom Munch 

What:  playing and singing an online concert of favorites 

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

When:  Sunday, November 7, 7-8:30 pm mountain time

Halloween and Frights

When I was a kid Halloween was a fun night to dress up and get lots of candy. We had a ton of kids in our neighborhood, so it was always a very lively night with friends and neighbors up and down the block. Some would even ask us to come inside their houses to make us show them a “trick” like doing a somersault or standing on our heads before we got our “treat” of whatever candy they were giving out. Halloween night didn’t really scare me, but I was afraid of so many other things then. Anytime it was dark I was afraid of the closet or the basement or under the bed. When we’d go to the mountains in the summer we would always make sure we used the outhouse before it was dark - otherwise we’d have to make the run from the back porch to the outhouse in the dark with a flashlight, and we were so scared that there was no way in the outhouse that we could accomplish any “relief”.  As I grew a little older I liked scary shows and movies, but they would always really bother me and give me nightmares. I found the worst ones were the supernatural movies. They would really get under my skin. As I became a teenager I started spending much more time outdoors - especially in scouts with camping. I got rid of some of my fear then, but I can still remember one week with my troop when we came back a day or two early from a week of camping because we were convinced there was a Bigfoot in the woods where we were camping. One of the kids had claimed that he saw one outside our tents in the middle of the night, and another one said that a Bigfoot had pushed in the roof of his tent until it touched his head. We had told other supernatural stories earlier in the week, so we were primed for anything to scare us. By the time I worked in the mountains at Philmont Scout Ranch in high school I was over most of my darkness jitters, and I would enjoy walking back from the evening campfires in the dark without a lantern or flashlight under the stars. Even at Philmont I think I did hear a ghost one night, but I’ll save that story for another time.  Halloween has become a fun holiday with loads of decorations. We are in a pretty rural area, so we don’t get trick-or treaters. We still enjoy watching some of the classic Halloween movies though - especially in black and white. I hope you have a Happy Halloween with no frights!

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What have I been up to?

I was so busy last week. Thankfully none of my senior facilities had to be cancelled because of COVID outbreaks.

My Wednesday show indoors at the Gold Rush Saloon in Pueblo turned out to be one of the most enjoyable nights ever. The upstairs balcony is a very cozy place to play with seating for just 22 people. The sound is good on the main floor too though, so people down there also enjoyed the show. I was having so much fun that I didn’t even think to take a break for 3 hours.

My Thursday online show doing songs about the wind was also a blast. There are so many good songs about the wind from “Mariah” to “Summer Wind” to “Windy” and we played them all! It was great to see so many friends.

My Friday online show doing Philmont songs was also well-attended and fun. It was pretty much an all-request show, and it felt so good to revisit such good times with good friends and music.

The Saturday retirement party I played was also wonderful outside with beautiful weather and good folks with great musical taste. Congratulations on your retirement, Mike!

My Sunday online show was also good although I’ll admit I was a little flustered in the beginning with a couple songs, but I eventually hit my stride and cruised through a bunch of favorites. We have such a great group of friends.

——

What am I up to this week?

This week will be a little less busy with 7 senior facilities and only two evening shows. Unfortunately I did have another facility have to cancel this week because of a COVID outbreak. It’s usually happening because of staff who aren’t vaccinated. I wish this hadn’t become a political issue.

My Thursday online show 7-8:30 mountain time will be doing Halloween songs. I know that Halloween will fall on Sunday when I’m doing another show, but I thought that a lot of folks might be busy on Halloween with possible parties and trick-or-treaters coming to the door, so I’ll do my show on Thursday with I’m sure a few more leftover songs on Halloween.

My Sunday online show 7-8:30 mountain time will be doing favorites and requests as always, and I’m sure we’ll do some Halloween songs too as I mentioned above. I look forward to interacting with my wonderful online friends who are so supportive and engaging.

——

That’s it for this week. I’m putting together a list of my favorite songs I’ve learned during the pandemic for an end-of-year show that should be great fun. More on that later. Be good to each other, and I hope to see you soon.

Best always,

Tom

——

Who:  Tom Munch 

What:  playing and singing an online concert of Halloween songs

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

When:  Thursday, October 28, 7-8:30 pm mountain time 

Who:  Tom Munch 

What:  playing and singing an online concert of favorites 

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

When:  Sunday, October 31, 7-8:30 pm mountain time

Creativity During COVID

Jen and I went to the SPACe Gallery, Shalawalla Gallery and Batik Studio, and The Mercantile in La Veta on Friday on a rare day out for us, and the creativity we saw that was created during COVID really inspired us. SPACe had beautiful paintings and creations, curious sculptures, and all kinds of outpourings of spirit and fire. Shalawalla had an explosion of gorgeous batik hangings and clothing, and the Merc had clever gifts and promising upcoming musical shows. Everywhere there were expressions of life and love that had come out during the darkest times of the last two years. I don’t know about you, but these last couple of years have been filled with angst and uncertainty. I’m a pretty centered person, but I still found it difficult to write during these times. I did pour out a lot of love and time into learning songs and interacting with folks as a way to deal with worry and give to others from what I have been given. But what I have witnessed in the creativity of others is astonishing. It just goes to reinforce my basic belief in our unity of spirit and being. We are connected to a goodness and purpose beyond our understanding. If we could only tap into it this world would be an even more wonderful place to be.

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What have I been up to?

I had half a dozen senior facilities last week. They all went fairly well except for a cancellation on Friday for COVID isolation. Hopefully everyone will be okay at that facility. That is the reason we took a day to go to La Veta.

The Thursday online show doing ‘60s folk songs was a blast. That era of writing and performing was filled with so many artists who communicated so brilliantly that it was a joy doing those songs.

The Sunday online show had a few leftover songs from the ‘60s to round out the night. It was a very special evening that everyone contributed so much to. What a sweet gathering it was!

——

What am I up to this week?

This will be another very busy week. I have eight senior facilities to play at that I’m looking very much forward to.

Wednesday 6-9 I’ll be at the Gold Dust Saloon in Pueblo once again. I think this will be the first evening it will be too cool to be outside, so I’ll play inside on the balcony. It should be a nice setup with room enough for an intimate group upstairs of maybe 25 with spillover to the main floor for a bunch more folks that should be able to hear very well. I’m looking forward to it. If you’re in Pueblo and have the evening free then please come on out!

Thursday my online show 7-8:30 mountain time will be songs about the wind. I have had an enchantment and an often frustration with wind over my life - especially since I’ve spent a lot of time outdoors. I sailed and hiked a lot when I was young as well as flying stunt kites in the wind. Then I have played music outside all over Colorado and New Mexico many times throughout my adult life. It will be fun to sing so many songs about the wind! Come on out.

Friday 7-9 mountain time I’m doing an online show for Philmont folks. If you’re in this group then head on over to my Philmont Songs Page on Facebook or my website to join into the memories of Philmont Scout Ranch. I’ve done a few of these shows during COVID, and they have all been very rewarding with good friends and stories.

Saturday I have a retirement party to play for some good folks I’ve known for several years in Cañon City. If you’re in that group then I may see you there.

Sunday my online show 7-8:30 mountain time will be the favorites and requests that my wonderful group of friends and fans have come to know. It’s such a great group that I’d love you to be part of if you’re not already. Please tune in!

——

That’s it for this week. I hope you’ve found a creative way to deal with this time of isolation and unsure futures during COVID. 

I wish you all the best - always,

Tom

——

Who:  Tom Munch

What:  playing & singing

Where:  Gold Dust Saloon, 217 S Union Ave, Pueblo

When:  Wednesday, October 20, 6-9 pm

Who:  Tom Munch 

What:  playing and singing an online concert of wind songs

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

When:  Thursday, October 21, 7-8:30 pm mountain time 

Who:  Tom Munch

What:  playing and singing an online concert for Philmont folks

Where: facebook.com/groups/1176893032692370 and tommunch.com/online-concerts

When:  Friday, October 22, 7-9 mountain time

Who:  Tom Munch 

What:  playing and singing an online concert of favorites 

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

When:  Sunday, October 24, 7-8:30 pm mountain time

Comfort Zone

I had an outstanding experience playing with the extraordinary Gordon Burt on fiddle Saturday, and it has me thinking about playing and living from our comfort zone. Musicians especially talk about being in some sort of mindset that allows us to perform at our best whether that be on stage or in our creative life. For musicians it has a lot to do with how we sound and how well we’re hearing the tone of our instrument and our voice as well as how the instrument feels under our fingers. We have to be comfortable enough to settle into a thought-free place where we can let the music flow effortlessly from our subconscious. Saturday was interesting for both Gordon and me as we settled into a musical rapport that allowed us to breathe and communicate the songs and the sounds with each other and with the audience. We did pretty well although a first shared set always is a little tentative. I think this parallels so much of what we all go through in life. Every situation requires some bending and adapting to new places and people as we try to maintain enough comfort in ourselves that we can be authentic and generous. I find it a challenge and an opportunity to be centered and mindful as I approach each situation. I don’t always do as well as I’d like, but I relish the opportunity. I do tend to stick to myself a lot. It’s all about that comfort that I carry with me. How about you?

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What have I been up to?

Last week was definitely busy, but I made it through with my voice and fingers intact.

I forgot to mention that I had 5 senior facilities last week although one had to cancel because of a COVID case. I have one of those this week as well. We’re definitely not out of the woods yet on this virus. I did get the Pfizer booster last week.

Tuesday I had a private party outside La Veta that was just as special as I hoped it would be. There are some great folks in that valley, and it was a pleasure to play for them.

Wednesday at the Gold Rush Saloon turned into kind of a private concert. This was probably the last night it will be warm enough to be outside, and it was beautiful. The folks who were there were warm and receptive for a sweet night of tunes.

Thursday was my online show of Jim Croce and Cat Stevens, and there were definitely some strong memories for all of us with both of their catalogs of tunes. I always forget how much I love some of these songs until I’m in the middle of them. It was very nice.

Saturday was the harvest festival at Littleton Museum with Gordon Burt sitting in on fiddle. There were hundreds of kids and families in the pumpkin patch whom we got to play for and interact with, and to say it was a blast is an understatement. I had so many good friends come out to hear us play, and it was just a perfect day. Gordon’s playing definitely drove me to new heights with his intuitive melodies and licks, and it was a joy. The only downside of the day was dealing with traffic on the way back to Pueblo, but I know many city folks deal with it all the time, so I won’t say more.

Sunday my online show had a great group attending, and as I said before I got to do several more favorites than I usually do. The highlight of the evening was probably playing ukulele on The Who’s “Blue, Red and Grey” and on Chuck Pyle’s “Moonglow Rising”.

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What am I up to this week?

This week I have 6 senior facilities. I’m getting where I sound pretty normal singing through a mask now. One did have to cancel for a COVID case again.

Thursday 7-8:30 mountain time my online show will be doing ‘60s folk music. This should be a lot of fun. I’ve already gotten a ton of requests. I’m going to slant towards the music of groups like Peter, Paul and Mary, The Seekers, and the New Christy Minstrels although there will be plenty of other folk artists thrown is as well. We won’t have time to do all the great songs by a long shot. It’ll be a good time, and I’d love to have you along if you’re up to it. Remember that you can always watch later on Facebook or on my website if you can’t make the live show - facebook.com/tommunch/videos_by and tommunch.com/online-concerts. 

My Sunday online show 7-8:30 mountain time will be the favorites and requests show we’ve come to know. I haven’t had as many requests lately, so I’ve been doing more of my favorites. It’s been a good mix, and again I’d love to have you onboard with our wonderful group of friends if you’d like to come along.

——

That’s it for this week. It’s about time to drain the sprinkler and drip systems, and to fire up the heater. I even put on the merino wool long underwear to walk Beau this morning. It feels like Fall. Time to feel a little bit of that comfort I talked about above.

Best always, 

Tom

——

Who:  Tom Munch 

What:  playing and singing an online concert of ’60s folk tunes

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

When:  Thursday, October 14, 7-8:30 pm mountain time 

Who:  Tom Munch 

What:  playing and singing an online concert of favorites 

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

When:  Sunday, October 17, 7-8:30 pm mountain time

Passing It On

Two of my siblings and I spent the weekend closing our rustic mountain cabins, and this time we had some of the nieces and nephews with us to learn all the ins and outs of draining plumbing, shuttering, and buttoning down things for the winter. It was a teaching and sharing process that was really refreshing, and it was great to spend time with nieces and nephews getting to know them better. We also looked at pictures of the building of the simple cabins two generations ago, and tried to pass along some of the stories and lore of the family. It’s something I don’t think of very often since Jen and I don’t have kids, but spreading insights and continuity as we go along with others is such a valuable and worthwhile thing to do. Our relative ages as we go through this life have so much to do with our thoughts and our approach to life. It’s something I forget as I go through my day. It’s just one of the curious facets of our existence here. I love it!

——

What have I been up to?

Last week was a good one. I had six senior facilities. They were very fulfilling.

My Thursday online show doing songs about food was just crazy fun. There are so many interesting songs about food, and it was really enjoyable having a night of frivolous music and friendship.

My Sunday online show of favorites and requests was also a great time. Our group really embraces each other and the music, and we had requests from all over the spectrum.

——

What am I up to this week?

This is a super busy week. I guess I’m not a very good planner. That’s okay. I enjoy the wild ride still.

Tuesday evening I have a private party near La Veta for some very nice folks. It has been such a great time playing for all the folks I have met in the Cuchara Valley. I have many cherished friendships.

Wednesday 6-9 I’ll be playing at the Gold Dust Saloon in Pueblo. Hopefully it will be warm enough to be on the patio. It will be fun evening regardless of where we set up. Come on out!

Thursday 7-8:30 mountain time my online show will be doing the music of Jim Croce and Cat Stevens. I have wanted to feature the music of both of these musicians for some time, and I think their music will make a nice combination. Please tune in to our welcoming group and listen in.

Saturday 11:30-1:30 I’ll be in the Denver area at the Littleton Museum for their Harvest Days event. They have me playing in the pumpkin patch behind the museum by the lake. It should be beautiful, and as an added bonus I’ll have the incomparable Gordon Burt sitting in on fiddle and backup vocals. Gordon played with Chuck Pyle for most of his Colorado career, and I can’t say enough about Gordon’s beautiful and intuitive fiddle playing. He finds just the right complement to any song he plays on. It will be a treat! Please come out if you’re in the Denver area. It’s a free day at the museum.

Sunday 7-8:30 mountain time I’ll be doing my weekly favorites and requests show. We have such a good time sharing songs and friendship. Come on out if you can on Facebook or my website.

——

That’s it for this week. I had such a good time with family over the weekend, and I hope you get to enjoy your family too as we pass it on.

Best,

Tom

——

Details this week:

Who:  Tom Munch

What:  playing & singing

Where:  Gold Dust Saloon, 217 S Union Ave, Pueblo, 719-545-0741

When:  Wednesday, October 6, 6-9 pm

Who:  Tom Munch 

What:  playing and singing an online concert of Jim Croce and Cat Stevens tunes

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

When:  Thursday, October 7, 7-8:30 pm mountain time 

Who:  Tom Munch with Gordon Burt sitting in

What:  playing and singing for the Littleton Museum Harvest Festival

Where:  Littleton Museum, 6028 S Gallup St, Littleton, CO, 303-795-3950

When:  Saturday, October 9, 11:30-1:30 pm

Who:  Tom Munch 

What:  playing and singing an online concert of favorites 

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

When:  Sunday, October 10, 7-8:30 pm mountain time

Groups and Community

I’m struggling today to write about groups and community. I have very mixed emotions about being in groups. I’ve always seen myself as kind of a lone wolf - especially since I mainly play music solo. Generally, when you’re in a group there are always dynamics that play into how you feel and how you interact. In a concert or theater setting as an audience member it can be very rewarding to experience the rush of emotion when everyone is feeling the same energy and you react together. As a performer on a stage it is an amazing feeling when you feel the audience transcend from individuals to one entity in reaction to your performance. In group settings like a party or gathering at a reunion or memorial there are all kinds of dynamics that come into play, and some people are gregarious and effusive while others are quiet observers. Some of this is learned and some is innate. I have to push myself to interact with other people in a group setting. I write a lot about how much we need each other, but when it comes to being in a group I’m most comfortable when I’m helping with the setup and logistics of the gathering instead of conversing with people in the group. It’s a funny thing how it all works out. The older I get the more I tend to pull into my shell. And this all relates to my online concert group too. I’ve cultivated a great group of folks that have become a community almost without any direction from me. All I’ve done is to try to put out good energy that benefits people, and that has attracted people who appreciate that and want to know the kind of people who like my music and presence. I hope this all makes sense. Like I said, I struggle to be in groups even when they are there for me.

——

What have I been up to?

Last week was a good one. The weather is still plenty hot although we had a couple cooler days. As result I had to have all my senior shows indoors. Hopefully we can keep the virus under control enough that we can continue indoors. I’m comfortable performing in a mask, so I feel fairly safe indoors.

My Fall show online Thursday went very well. There are so many really good songs for Fall, and we didn’t even get to them all. I had a great group of friends and fans come out and join in. There’s that community thing again!

My Saturday show for the Good Sam’s RV’ers went very well. I did mostly old country songs for them to feature my “Back to the Old Country” album, and it was right up their alley. I love playing for these folks.

My Sunday favorites show online was another full group of friends with great participation although Facebook changed their app just enough that comments were being hidden for everyone on devices other than a computer. That didn’t stop the group from finding a way to join in and support me and each other though. It was very fulfilling. We actually did more impromptu requests this time than we’ve ever done before.

——

What am I up to this week?

My Thursday online show 7-8:30 mountain time will be playing songs about food. My online show comes right after or during dinnertime for some folks, and food is a frequent topic of conversation in the chat. So why not do a show about food?! This will be a lot of fun, and Jen and I have already had a blast finding and putting together songs for this show. Come on out and join in the fun! I recommend you eat before the show so you’re not dying of hunger as the food talk builds. 🤪

My Sunday online show 7-8:30 mountain time will be doing favorites and requests as always. I’m very pleased at the way these shows have morphed over the months. Everyone is so comfortable with each other and the music and flow that we truly reach some very sweet and alternately boisterous moments. It’s something to experience. Hope to see you this week!

——

That’s it for this week. Next week on Saturday, Oct. 9,  I have a show in Littleton at the Littleton Museum from 12-3 as part of their Fall Festival. If you’re in the Denver area I’d love to see you! Take care and enjoy being part of groups.

Best always,

Tom

——

Details this week:

Who:  Tom Munch 

What:  playing and singing an online concert of songs about food

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

When:  Thursday, September 30, 7-8:30 pm mountain time 

Who:  Tom Munch 

What:  playing and singing an online concert of favorites 

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

When:  Sunday, October 3, 7-8:30 pm mountain time

Making a Difference

Hello,

One of the most important things in our lives is feeling like we’re making a difference. There are many ways to do this. Giving to others is one of the most meaningful things I have found that makes a difference. I’m lucky that I have music as an obvious gift that I can give to others, but we all have talents and abilities that we can use to make others’ lives better and thus add meaning to our lives. Making a difference can be as simple as going out of your way to help someone, open a door, welcome them, or tell them they look nice. Little things can change someone else’s attitude, and that can ripple through out an entire day or community. It doesn’t take much, and it can add meaning and make a difference to others as well as ourselves. As I look back on my life there are some very big ways that someone else did something that made a difference to me or an entire group, but there are also very small things that made a difference. It just took the presence of mind and the brief pause to think of the kind or the beneficial thing that showed care and respect in the moment. I encourage you to try to make a difference as you go through your day and your week.

——

What have I been up to?

Last week was a good one. It felt so good to be back to playing after my COVID isolation.

I had 8 senior facilities including one where I hadn’t been for a whole year because of COVID. It was SO good to see them. Talk about feeling like you’re making a difference! I love these folks.

My Monday night online show doing favorites was a good one. I didn’t expect as many people as usual on an off night and with Monday Night Football, but so many great folks came out and joined in.

Wednesday I played for the Pueblo Zoo at Senior Discovery Week, and it was more than fun! I also brought a PA for them to use on Tuesday and Thursday morning, so I got to see a lot of the wonderful staff. It was a pleasure!

Wednesday night I played at the Gold Dust Saloon in Pueblo to a local crowd of good friends, and it was a rare night when everything really clicked.

Thursday night’s online show was doing Elvis Presley tunes, and it was a boppin’ good time. His ‘50s tunes especially were just a hoot!

I had a Philmont reunion on Saturday that was full of old friends and new friends and good food and conversation. I even played a few tunes at the end to round out the evening.

My Sunday online show was doing favorites and requests as always. It was rewarding and sweet with good friends and music.

——

What am I up to this week?

I have 8 senior facilities this week, and I always look forward to these. It will be a bit cooler, so I don’t think I’ll be doing any of them outdoors. That may present some challenges.

My Thursday online show 7-8:30 mountain time will be doing Fall songs. I have so many great songs about this season, and I’d hate to miss the opportunity to sing them, so come on out Thursday night to celebrate the Fall equinox and the cooler weather.

Saturday I have a private concert for a Good Sam’s RV gathering. I’ve played shows for Good Sam’s groups for a decade now, and I always enjoy their camaraderie and spirit.

My Sunday online show 7-8:30 mountain time will be doing favorites and requests as always. We have such a giving group who I know make a difference in their lives. It’s a joy to be part of them. Come on out and join in.

——

That’s it for this week. I look forward to the changing season, and I hope you are staying safe and happy. Hope you can do something that will make a difference this week.

Best always,

Tom

——

Details this week:

Who:  Tom Munch 

What:  playing and singing an online concert of Fall songs

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

When:  Thursday, September 23, 7-8:30 pm mountain time 

Who:  Tom Munch 

What:  playing and singing an online concert of favorites 

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

When:  Sunday, September 26, 7-8:30 pm mountain time 

Ukulele

I’ve been breaking out the ukulele again. I started on ukulele as my first stringed instrument, and I’ve recently become enamored with it all over again from it’s happy sound and portability. My sister Jane would tell you that she is responsible for my musical career since I permanently borrowed her ukulele and chord book when I was 12 which led to getting a baritone ukulele a couple years later and then my first guitar when I was 15. The ukulele was first mentioned in Hawaii in a newspaper in 1888, and is mostly likely based on Portuguese instruments from the island of Madeira that may have been brought to Hawaii in the 1800s. It became especially popular in the 1920s when famous musicians adopted it and performed and recorded with it. I read where George Harrison said it always was a happy and hopeful sound that people wanted to hear particularly in the 20s and 50s after the world wars when people needed its uplifting spirit and sense of fun. I will tell you that it’s more difficult for me to play than guitar because I can’t naturally transfer my skills on guitar to the ukulele since the instrument is so different to hold and play. So it is taking me some time to adjust and find the sweet voice of the ukulele that I know I can bring out in time. One of these days I will surprise my audience with a few songs. I think you’ll like it. There is always something to explore and enjoy in this life!

——

What have I been up to?

My senior facilities were wonderful once I got back to them at the end of the week. I played for the veterans home in Walsenburg and a memory care facility in Pueblo. It is such rewarding work when you see how the people respond.

My Tuesday online show playing Linda Ronstadt songs was such a good time. Her music has meant so much to me over the years, and it is such a tragic thing that she got her illness which has taken away her singing voice. Such a stellar voice and great presence!

The final outing of the Yellow Pine for the year on Thursday was outdoors around the campfire, and it was very special. The folks of Cuchara are just so warm and appreciative. I even had good friends from Pueblo West come down to join in.

The private engagement party Saturday evening was a beautiful outdoor event even though it had been a very hot day.

My concert at Pink House Concerts on Sunday in Colorado Springs was even more enjoyable than I had hoped for. I got to be the last regular concert of this venue, and after the rain stopped threatening and I hit my stride it was pure joy to the end. Gayle and Corlie are wonderful people and great hosts. John Spengler opened for me with some very heartfelt, well-written songs, and the audience was so genuine and welcoming. It will be a cherished memory.

——

What am I up to this week?

My Sunday favorites and requests show will be tonight (Monday) 7-8:30 mountain time on Facebook and my website. Hopefully I didn’t throw my regular crowd off by switching a day. I knew I wouldn’t get back from the afternoon Pink House concert until after 7:00 when I usually start, so I moved it a day later. It will be fun show, and I hope you’ll tune in if you can.

Wednesday 11-1 I’m playing for Senior Discovery Week at the Pueblo Zoo. Admission is free for seniors 65 and older all week, and it’s always a wonderful time getting to play music and see folks and the animals at the zoo. Come on out if you’re free - especially if you’re a senior.

Wednesday evening 6-9 I’ll be at the Gold Dust Saloon on the patio. I’ve been getting back my old Magpie’s crowd coming out to see me again here, and it’s so good to reconnect over good food and drink with my music. It’s a wonderful place to spend an evening. Come on out!

My Thursday online concert 7-8:30 mountain time will be the music of Elvis Presley. I’m telling folks that I don’t do any sort of Elvis impersonation.  I just like his music and love playing it. It’ll be a memorable night with tunes we all know. I’d love to have you join in with our sweet group of friends.

Saturday I’m going to a Philmont “Philtoberfest” at a Philfriends house in Colorado Springs where I’m sure the guitars and maybe even ukuleles will come out. It’s not a gig, but if you’re a Philmonter I’d love to see you there. You can find info and RSVP on the Philstaff Facebook pages.

Sunday 7-8:30 mountain time will be our regular weekly favorites show with all the good friends and fun music we look forward to each week. I’m not sure what’s on the setlist, but it is always a fine time. Please tune in if you can.

——

That’s it for this week. It’s back to practicing the ukulele now! Be good and be safe and I hope to see you soon!

Best,

Tom

——

Details this week:

Who:  Tom Munch 

What:  playing and singing an online concert of favorites 

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

When:  Monday, September 13, 7-8:30 pm mountain time 

Who:  Tom Munch 

What:  playing and singing for Senior Discovery Week

Where:  Pueblo Zoo Mandari Pavilion, Pueblo. 719-561-1452 ext 106

When:  Wednesday, September 15, 11-1 pm

Who:  Tom Munch

What:  playing & singing

Where:  Gold Dust Saloon, 217 S Union Ave, Pueblo

When:  Wednesday, September 15, 6-9 pm

Who:  Tom Munch 

What:  playing and singing an online concert of Elvis Presley songs

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

When:  Thursday, September 16, 7-8:30 pm mountain time 

Who:  Tom Munch 

What:  playing and singing an online concert of favorites 

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

When:  Sunday, September 19, 7-8:30 pm mountain time 

COVID Isolation

Well, I tested positive for COVID last Monday. Jen had been around a friend the previous week who later tested positive, so after waiting 5 days we got a Rapid test on Sunday and then a PCR test on Monday. The Rapid test was negative for both of us within minutes, and the doctor who did the test was confident that if we had no symptoms by Tuesday we were in the clear. We had already scheduled a PCR test for Monday, so we went through with that just to be sure. The PCR test came back negative for Jen and positive for me on Wednesday night. I didn’t have any symptoms still, and the recommendation from the CDC says to isolate for 10 days after a positive test, so I cleared my schedule of any outside gigs until Thursday of this week. I still don’t have any symptoms, and Jen doesn’t either. Her friend who she was with who tested positive has been sick ever since the day she got her positive test result 11 days ago. I don’t know if the vaccine for both of us is the reason that neither Jen nor I have symptoms or if the test is just so sensitive that it showed COVID particles in my nose even though I wasn’t infected, but either way we are doing the safe and responsible thing. This virus is too unpredictable to take chances with. I missed a few gigs I was looking forward to, but at least I could do my online concerts for folks. There is no doubt that we dodged a bullet. I’ve had several friends who caught the virus and had miserable experiences - with and without the vaccine. It does hit you very hard when you hear the test results. I’m pretty level-headed about life and death, but your mind still races when you stand at the precipice. I’m thankful that I’ll have more opportunities to continue playing my music and spreading whatever good it can do in the world.

——

What have I been up to?

You already know that I had to clear my schedule once I got my test results. When I had the negative Rapid test result I decided that I should still be cautious until I got the PCR test back so I masked up and only played one outdoor gig on Tuesday and one on Wednesday. 

Tuesday I played for one senior facility outdoors at a good distance with their permission after the negative Rapid test. I thoroughly enjoy the opportunity to play for these folks.

My Tuesday online show was playing the tunes of the Everly Brothers and Buddy Holly. Their music is so much fun, and I played my Fender Strat that looks like Buddy Holly’s Strat on his rockin’ tunes. It was so enjoyable!

Wednesday I played for the Gold Dust Saloon outside on the patio with a good breeze to good friends who were distanced - wearing my mask when I was anywhere near them. We did a bunch of old rock and roll songs including a bunch of Linda Ronstadt’s tunes in anticipation of this week’s theme show with her music. That’s where I got the positive test result in between songs.

My Sunday show playing favorites and requests was great fun too. We did a lot of impromptu requests in the moment as people asked for them. I did have computer problems at the start when I found there was no sound and my streaming program was frozen, but after a reboot and a small delay we were able to proceed with gusto. This is such a wonderful group of folks to know and spend time with.

——

What am I up to this week?

I have three senior facilities once I am over the isolation period this week. 

My Tuesday online show 7-8:30 mountain time will be playing the previously-mentioned songs of Linda Ronstadt. Next to Ella Fitzgerald, Linda is my favorite female vocalist. Her music is so dynamic and heartfelt. She has done everything from rock to folk to country to Spanish tunes and even jazz standards, so there is so much music to choose from. This will be a special night with a lot of memories. Pleas tune in if you can.

Thursday night 6:30-8 I’ll be at the Yellow Pine for their AA (Appetizers and Alcohol) or Shalom and Charcuterie party that they like to close the season out with the Thursday after Labor Day each year. It’s a FREE potluck appetizers and BYOB (bring-your-own-beverage) event that is a blast to be at every year. Everyone is welcome. Please come if you can!

Saturday I have a private engagement party that I’m looking forward to.

Sunday 3-5:30 in Colorado Springs I am playing a wonderful house concert that is part of the Pink House Concerts series. It is run by two gals who love music and have a beautiful backyard setting where they have put on concerts for several years. I am honored to play for this series, and I’d love to have you come if you’re up for it. You have to make a reservation to come, and they do require that you have been vaccinated. There is a $20 suggested donation that goes to the performers. I’ll have a musician I recently met named John Spengler open the afternoon with a few songs before I go on. It should be a really nice afternoon! You can make reservations and find out details on their website - https://pinkhouseconcerts.com/gt

Monday 7-8:30 I’ll be doing my weekly favorites and request show that I usually do on Sunday since I won’t get back from the house concert above on Sunday until well after 7:00.

——

That’s it for this week. I’m glad that my first close experience with COVID has been extremely uneventful, and I’m looking forward to playing the week. Take care and be safe.

Best,

Tom

——

Details this week:

Who:  Tom Munch 

What:  playing and singing an online concert of Linda Ronstadt songs

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

When:  Tuesday, September 7, 7-8:30 pm mountain time 

Who:  Tom Munch

What:  playing & singing for the AA Shalom and Charcuterie party

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

When:  Thursday, September 9, 6:30-8:00 pm

Who:  Tom Munch

What:  playing and singing at a house concert at Pink House Concerts

Where:  Colorado Springs - https://pinkhouseconcerts.com/gt for location and details

When:  Sunday, September 12, 3-5:30 pm

Who:  Tom Munch 

What:  playing and singing an online concert of favorites 

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

When:  Monday, September 13, 7-8:30 pm mountain time 

Free Won't

Interesting concept today - Free Won’t. It’s the choice to Not do something that crosses our thoughts. I heard it on a podcast I was listening to this past week. We tend to think that we are somewhat controlled by our thoughts, and we tend to react very quickly most times instead of remembering that we have a choice not only to do something, but also to Not do something. I think this is also tied up in habits. We like habits because they allow us to follow an established path, and that oftentimes is easier and takes less thought. But I’d like to propose that we have a choice in everything we do. That’s Free Will. But we also have a choice to Not do something as well, and that’s Free Won’t. If you can stop for a second to consider the outcome of your choice you can control the flow of thoughts and events that follow, and you can also set yourself free in the moment from your automatic habits. Try it!

——

What have I been up to?

Tuesday’s online show was doing the music of Nanci Griffith, and it was so rewarding getting to dive into her music again. She was a fine songwriter who could express so many emotions in stories not only about other people but about herself as well. She will definitely be missed, and it was a walk down memory lane for me Tuesday over the past 35 years.

Thursday we found out that a friend of ours had tested positive for COVID, and we had spent time with her on Tuesday and Wednesday. So we had to read up on precautions for vaccinated folks who are exposed to people with breakthrough COVID. We found that we needed to wear a mask indoors for the next week and also get tested anywhere from 3-7 days after exposure, so we did a Rapid test after 5 days on Sunday, and we’ll do a PCR test today. The Rapid test was negative, so that’s good news. Our friend was pretty sick over the weekend, so we still want to take caution until we get the PCR test back just to be sure. My Saturday show I stayed away from folks and wore a mask except when I was onstage performing. We are both feeling fine.

Saturday’s show at Hoobler’s in La Veta was so enjoyable. We had a good crowd, and I did mostly songs off my albums. It was a perfect night outdoors on the beautiful stage the Jim and Peggy Hoobler built on their yard. You can see pictures of it on my Facebook and Instagram. Thanks to everyone who came out.

Sunday’s online show was also wonderful with a few new songs and our genuine  group of friends and fans. I can’t express enough how thankful I am for such warm and caring people who have joined in with me and my music.

——

What am I up to this week?

My Tuesday online show 7-8:30 will be doing songs from the Everly Brothers and Buddy Holly. Don Everly passed a week ago, and so I wanted to honor the memory of Don and his brother Phil with a few of their tunes. I thought Buddy Holly would be a good compliment to their music, so we’ll combine the two for a rousing show. Come on out!

Wednesday 6-9 I’ll be at the Gold Dust Saloon in Pueblo out back on the patio. Our first outing there a couple weeks ago went very well, and I hope this week will be just as fun. Since it’s outdoors I can still maintain a good distance and safety with folks if we haven’t gotten back a negative PCR test yet. I’ll cancel if we test positive, of course. I have agreed to do the 1st and 3rd Wednesdays going forward. We’ll move them inside to the balcony as weather dictates. Of course this is all dependent on how things go with COVID.

Saturday 11-1:30 I’ll be in Westcliffe performing for the street fair in front of KLZR radio station. This was originally scheduled on Sunday at the Feed Store Amphitheater, but they moved it to be part of the party on the street with all the cars and food vendors and excitement. It should be a good time, and there’ll be seating and lots of stuff going on. Come on out if you’re in the Westcliffe area!

My Sunday online show 7-8:30 will be doing the favorites and requests that make for such a fun evening each week. I said it above, but we get such a great group of friends with so much support for each other and the music. Please tune in if you can!

——

That’s it for this week. It was kind of a whirlwind with the COVID scare for us this week, and our friend is still pretty sick, so we definitely have an even better understanding of the risks that we all are still part of with this virus. Take care, my friend, and we’ll all get through this. My thoughts about Free Won’t definitely apply to how we think through this every day.

Best,

Tom

——

Details this week:

Who:  Tom Munch 

What:  playing and singing an online concert of Nanci Griffith songs

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

When:  Tuesday, August 31, 7-8:30 pm mountain time 

Who:  Tom Munch

What:  playing & singing

Where:  Gold Dust Saloon, 217 S Union Ave, Pueblo

When:  Wednesday, September 1, 6-9 pm

Who:  Tom Munch

What:  playing and singing for the Street Fair

Where:  on the street in front of KLZR Radio, 103 S 2nd St, Westcliffe

When:  Saturday, September 4, 11-1:30 pm

Who:  Tom Munch 

What:  playing and singing an online concert of favorites 

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

When:  Sunday, September 5, 7-8:30 pm mountain time 

La Veta

I’m playing a concert in La Veta Saturday night, and I wanted to tell you a little bit of my experience with this little mountain town over the past 36 years. When I first moved to southern Colorado in the Fall of 1985 I was fresh out of college in Nebraska in the past year and had lived in Dallas for 5 months trying to put together a duo with a great guitarist there that didn’t pan out. I took a temporary job selling stereo equipment for a little shop in Pueblo while I tried to get a corporate job in computers. One of my first customers was an elderly couple who were buying a new receiver to replace an old classic Sansui 4000 receiver that I still have to this day. (It had switchable mono/stereo buttons and even reversible stereo channels!) The couple lived in La Veta, and they wanted me to deliver the new receiver and hook it up for them and take away the old Sansui. So I made a trip to La Veta to see them and discover this little gem of a town. I didn’t spend much time there, but it was the first time I had gotten so close to the Spanish Peaks (Huajatolla) that I had driven by many times over the years. I was enchanted, and when my temporary job in stereo ended after the Christmas shopping season and I hadn’t gotten hired on at the corporate job I was seeking I decided to do some live music like I had done in college. One of the places I booked to play was the Cuchara Valley ski resort and the Timbers bar at Cuchara just up the road from La Veta. I began to hear stories up there from the folks of Cuchara and La Veta of the camaraderie and specialness of the place, and I was hooked. I didn’t play in the resort that much before it unfortunately closed, but I knew I wanted to play in the area more. Over the next few years I played up and down the Front Range and into the mountains with a base in Beulah until I settled in Pueblo West at a house job playing at the Pueblo West Inn for 10 years. When that ended I just had to go back up the road to La Veta.  There I became re-enchanted by the people and the creative spirit and love that they held for life and the place they lived. Over the past 20 years I have played all over La Veta and Cuchara for the wonderful folks who appreciate life, art, music and genuine living. Some of the folks are from there and some have settled there, but they all share an excitement and an authentic joy that is infectious. I love playing there! That’s where I’ll be this Saturday night at an outdoor concert at the Hoobler’s house. More below.

——

What have I been up to?

My senior facilities went very well last week. It is so good to be singing for folks where you know it makes a difference to their lives.

My Tuesday online show was doing the music of John Denver, and it was so rewarding. John’s music meant so much to me as I was learning guitar and trying out my musical wings. We had a great group of friends as always.

Wednesday playing at the Gold Dust Saloon in Pueblo was a lot of fun too. I had so many local friends come out, and it was very sweet. I’ll be doing the Gold Dust on first and third Wednesdays each month for the foreseeable future.

Saturday night I played a Pueblo Arts Alliance fundraiser that was wonderful too. It was outdoors in a beautiful setting along the river with some stellar folks.

My Sunday online show was very nice too. I did a couple more John Denver tunes that I didn’t get to on Tuesday as well as songs from the Everly Brothers and Tom T. Hall who had recently passed.

——

What am I up to this week?

My Tuesday online show 7-8:30 mountain time will be doing songs by Nanci Griffith. She passed last week at the age of 68, and I followed her music very closely and did a lot of her songs. She was a wonderful Texas songwriter known for songs like “Love at the Five and Dime” and her cover of Kate Wolf’s “Across the Great Divide”. I think it will be a wonderful show and I hope you’ll tune in.

Saturday 7-9 I’ll be playing the La Veta show I mentioned above at Hoobler’s outdoor concert site. Jim and Peggy Hoobler are sweet folks who have been involved in music and history for years around the area, and last year during COVID they began having outdoor socially-distanced concerts on their lawn when all the indoor venues had to close. I have played for Jim and Peggy for many private shows over the years, and I can’t wait to play at their outdoor stage. It’s the only time I’m playing in La Veta this summer, and it should be a blast. Bring a lawn chair and the beverage of your choice to their house at 707 East Virginia Street. It’s $20/person. You can call 719-989-1530 for more info. No reservations required.

My Sunday online show 7-8:30 mountain time will be the favorites and requests that are always so much fun. I love the folks who come out to share each other’s company and my music. Come on out if you can. I’m always learning new tunes and polishing up old ones.

——

That’s it for this week. I have a few other fun shows coming up including playing in Westcliffe September 4th, Yellow Pine on September 9th, and a Pink House concert in Colorado Springs on September 12th. I hope a bunch of folks from the Springs area will come out to this concert. You can find more info on that at https://pinkhouseconcerts.com/gt. 

Take care,

Tom

——

Details this week:

Who:  Tom Munch 

What:  playing and singing an online concert of Nanci Griffith songs

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

When:  Tuesday, August 24, 7-8:30 pm mountain time 

Who:  Tom Munch 

What:  playing an outdoor concert at Hoobler’s in La Veta 

Where:  707 East Virginia Street, La Veta 

When:  Saturday, August 28, 7-9 pm

Details:  $20/person, bring lawn chairs, beverages, friends!

Who:  Tom Munch 

What:  playing and singing an online concert of favorites 

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

When:  Sunday, August 29, 7-8:30 pm mountain time 

Musical Influences

I’m returning to singer/songwriters for my online theme shows starting with John Denver this week and Nanci Griffith next week, and it has me thinking of musical influences and how they have shaped me and my music. I have so many musicians and groups I have followed over my life, and as a listener and as a musician I have appreciated them for different qualities and depth in their music. From the early standards I heard my dad play I picked up rhythms and complex chords and harmonies that shaped my ear to hear and understand subtle nuances. In the folk and folk-rock ‘60s and ‘70s music of my youth I picked up an ear for acoustic instruments and songwriting structure as well as vocal harmonies and eclectic lyrics and poetry. In the rock and roll of the ‘60s through the ‘80s I grew an appreciation for the drive and grit that makes this blues-flavored music so powerful. In the Country and Texas-songwriter music I was exposed to in the ‘80s and ‘90s I heard more detail in the use of different swing-influenced chords and personal stories. So much of this music enchants me and informs my playing style and musical choices in almost every song. I normally do a deep dive on anyone I listen to if there is depth to be had in their music. I think that’s why I can hear and play a lot of different styles. I pretty much get lost in whatever world the musician or group is creating until I can understand it from the inside out. For instance, Jen and I were watching a documentary on Fleetwood Mac and their album “Rumours” the other night, and she asked me if they were an influence on me. I told her they definitely were. I can remember listening on good headphones to the song “Landslide” and being mesmerized by the acoustic guitars dancing in both ears. Then I heard the driving lead guitar, tight and strong vocal mix, and the tom-toms beating out the rhythm and I was definitely moved and wanted to listen and to eventually play that music. That’s just one example. I could say words to that effect for just about every major act I’ve come across in my life. It’s all amazing and engaging. A friend told me that my music was bringing hope back into her life, and I really think it is this amazement I feel that drives me to play with joy and feeling, and that intensity can bring hope to everyone. I’m glad to be in the flow of it.

——

What have I been up to?

My senior facilities went very well last week. Some are inside with masks and some are outside without masks and they are all trying to do right by their residents. I’m still worried that we will have to stop again as the virus worsens. This is such a tough time to live through for all involved.

My Tuesday online show doing the songs of Guy Clark and Townes Van Zandt was a lot of fun. I think my audience enjoyed it as much as I did. There is such a wealth of great writing between these two guys.

The last Thursday barbecue at the Yellow Pine was a very memorable one with a packed house and lots of good friends. We had such a great season, and it looks like we’ll do it again next year. I started playing at the Yellow Pine in 2001, so this is one of my longest standing gigs, and I couldn’t enjoy it more!

Friday night I got to play a dance at the Cuchara Community Center with Dennis Mills on bass, and we had a great time! I swapped between electric and acoustic guitars as we played a huge variety of songs for the dancers. If you missed it we’ll be doing a couple dances next summer as well. Stay tuned!

My Sunday online show was a big variety of music as always. There were some great requests, and I was definitely pretty far out there on couple of them. That’s always part of the fun wondering if I’m going to pull it off. Hopefully I won’t ever crash too hard!

——

What am I up to this week?

I have 7 senior facilities this week including a return back to Innovage - the first time since February of last year. I’m getting pretty good at singing through a mask. I boost the highs on the mic so that the words are still intelligible, and it all works out pretty well.

My Tuesday online show 7-8:30 mountain time is doing the songs of John Denver again. His music was the first I featured on my theme shows a year ago last July, and we only got to 20 or songs out of 65 or so that I know, so there’s plenty of good songs we haven’t even touched yet. And I don’t mind singing some of the great ones we did last time if anyone remembers what we did! John’s music was some of the first I learned when I got my first ukulele and later guitar, and his accessibility and great tunes definitely influenced me in my early days.

Wednesday night I’ll be playing live in Pueblo 6-9 at the Gold Dust Saloon on Union Avenue in Pueblo. They have a nice patio where we can enjoy each other and some good food and drink, and I hope to see bunch of the old crew from Magpies and Bistoro as well as some new faces and anyone else who’d like to come out. If all goes well we may make it a regular thing! I’d like to do some appearances at Bistoro again too, so stay tuned.

Saturday night I’m playing a fundraiser for the Pueblo Arts Alliance that I’m looking forward to. If you are interested in the arts in Pueblo and you’d like to come there are tickets available at puebloarts.org. It should be fun!

My Sunday online show 7-8:30 mountain time will be the favorites and requests we always enjoy. We have such a wonderful and supportive group of folks at my online shows, and if you’ve never been you will be welcomed with open arms. Feel free to message with any requests you think I could play for you, and I’ll try to work them in as I can.

——

That’s it for this week. I hope you’re doing well, and I hope to see you soon.

Best always,

Tom

Details this week:

Who:  Tom Munch 

What:  playing and singing an online concert of John Denver songs

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

When:  Tuesday, August 17, 7-8:30 pm mountain time 

Who:  Tom Munch

What:  playing & singing

Where:  Gold Dust Saloon, 217 S Union Ave, Pueblo

When:  Wednesday, August 18, 6-9 pm

Who:  Tom Munch 

What:  playing ands singing for the Pueblo Arts Alliance fundraiser

Where:  info at puebloarts.org

When:  Saturday, August 21, 6-8ish pm

Who:  Tom Munch 

What:  playing and singing an online concert of favorites 

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

When:  Sunday, August 22, 7-8:30 pm mountain time