I had an interesting thing happen in my family this week. The old trailer that we had on an irrigation lake in Nebraska where I learned to swim and fish was vandalized. Many windows were broken, and many things were generally smashed and busted up for no apparent reason. I haven’t had to deal with it directly - my mom, sister, and niece are cleaning it up and dealing with the insurance. Nothing of any real value other than a couple things with family sentiment were wrecked, but of course there’s the hassle and the feeling of violation. But it also brings back that old question - why do people do this kind of thing? And that brings back the bigger question - are people basically good or bad? To the first question, I don’t have any idea why these particular people did this. There wouldn’t be any reason someone would be getting revenge for anything, and I can’t imagine it was anything more than just someone wanting to bust things up for the perverse fun of it. But the second question is the one I find on my mind most this morning. I believe that people are basically good, not bad, despite the church training I received that people usually tend towards a more depraved state. I haven’t found that in my life. I’ve usually found people to be decent when given the chance, and though I may be naive, I want to stick to this basic belief in the wonder of the planet and humanity. I’ve read enough to know that the bigger and stronger and more aggressive don’t always win out - even in animals. We will help those in need even to our detriment. And believing that we are inherently bad leads to all kinds of self-doubt that is frankly destructive in my opinion. Humans are amazing (as is the rest of creation), and we are capable of love and caring and magnificent feats beyond the mundane norms we are accustomed to accept. Believing this and in our own goodness leads to joy and accomplishment and wanting to help others do and be the same. This is what I believe.
What’s happened in the last two weeks?
The Sunday show with the Atomic Fireballs at the Royal Gorge Bridge was loads of fun. We had a little rain to contend with but we made it through with wonderful crowds of people all seeing the rebuilding at the Gorge. They’re on the road to regaining their old glory. I also had a couple private events that weekend that were very fulfilling with old and new friends. Then last week I played a wonderful wedding at a nursing home that honored the bride’s mother who has been a resident there for several years, and lastly I played an anniversary for the Sangre de Cristo Arts Center in Pueblo for a group of enthusiastic supporters, and had a strong rehearsal for the Song of Pueblo which debuts our new season this week.
So what’s up this week?
Thursday starts my season at the Yellow Pine Guest Ranch in Cuchara, CO. If you don’t remember me writing about this before, I’ve been playing the Thursday-Night barbecue at the Yellow Pine since 2001. It’s a wonderful community barbecue in the old barn at the ranch where friends and family gather for Texas-style barbecued brisket, ribs and chicken with all the fixin’s accompanied by my music (as well as a campfire and roasting marshmallows) in the picturesque old town of Cuchara, Colorado. They have cabins for rent as well, and horseback riding, fishing and other activities. It’s a great old place that I’ve been privileged to play for these last 14 years. If you want to come, please make sure to call for a reservation by Tuesday (719-742-3528) so they can make enough good food for you. It’s a blast, and I’d love to have you there. Sometimes it books up early, so make your plans soon!
Friday we start the Song of Pueblo oratorio for our 7th season. If you’re not familiar with the Song of Pueblo, it is an oratorio-style show with a 4-piece band led by yours truly that narrates and sings songs about the history of southern Colorado centered around Pueblo and accompanied by wonderful stills and video illustrating the story we tell. It is moving, funny, and ultimately a great ride learning about the fine people who settled and built this area of the West. Tickets are $15 and are available at the Visitor’s Center in Pueblo at 301 North Union Avenue, 719-543-2430. We are performing this year at Pueblo Community College’s Hoag Theater in the lower level of the Academic Building on the corner of Orman and Arthur. Doors open at 6:00, and the show starts at 7:00. We’ll also be performing it July 24, August 21, and September 12 if you can’t make it this week. Much of the visuals are brand-new this year, and we’ve made a few tweaks to the music as well, so there are new things to see if you’ve seen the show before. This is such a stellar project to be involved with, and I hope you’ll come and see it.
That’s it for this week. I’m back in the studio next Monday, so I may not get an update out until Tuesday. Wish me luck as I pursue my instrumental album this summer!
Best always,
Tom
Details this week:
Who: Tom Munch
What: playing & singing at the Barbecue
Where: Yellow Pine Guest Ranch, Cuchara. 719-742-3528
When: Thursday, June 11, 6:30-8:30 pm
Who: Tom Munch with Johnny Watson, David Enke, & Alan Polivka
What: playing, singing, & telling the history of Pueblo at the Song of Pueblo oratorio
Where: Hoag Theater, Pueblo Community College, Orman and Arthur, Pueblo. 719-543-2430 for tickets
When: Friday, June 12, 7:00 pm
Monday, June 8, 2015
Monday, May 25, 2015
What is Important in Life?
I'm thinking about life again and what is important to do with this limited time we have on earth. As I was working on our property (weeds and bushes and stuff) I started questioning whether that was really what I wanted to do with my time. I don't mind hard work, and if I'm not messing up my hands or fingers for playing the guitar, I will do whatever work needs to be done, but I realize that we only have so much time here on earth, and I sometimes wonder if it's more important to have fresh experiences or spend time with loved ones instead of always doing what could be considered busywork. We all know that there is always work to be done somewhere in our lives, but I do think that having a balance of work, play, family, and alone time is very important. So how do you determine what that balance should be? We only have so much time here, and living it with passion and joy, I know, is the key.
What happened last week?
I had a bit of setback Friday when I found out I have to have a few more treatments for my leg-vein problems. I guess my body is just stubborn. It's amazing how our bodies wear out and break down. It's not too bad, it just reminds me that I'm getting older. Oh, well, keep on working. Then Sunday was the fabulous Summer in the Park concert in Westcliffe which went great even though it was cold and rainy with a bit of a breeze so that we all had to squeeze in under the amphitheater for most of the show until the sun came out. I had a wonderful group of folks who stayed with me for most of the time. It was an afternoon to remember. I posted a picture to Facebook and Twitter if you want to see what it was like -
What's up this week?
I'm back at the Royal Gorge Bridge with the Atomic Fireballs Sunday 12:30-4:30 (They'll be playing without me with the famous blues player, Buddy Whittington, on Saturday). I haven't played at the Gorge since before the fire two years ago, and I'm anxious to see all the changes and play on the new stage on the south side of the bridge. If you'd like to hear or us or haven't seen the changes since the fire, then come on out!
I'd better run. The storm has passed and I have more outside work to get done.
Best,
Tom
Details this week:
Who: Tom Munch and the Atomic Fireballs
What: playing and singing
Where: South side of the Royal Gorge at the Royal Gorge Bridge on the new stage just off the bridge
When: Sunday, May 31, 12:30-4:30 pm
What: playing and singing
Where: South side of the Royal Gorge at the Royal Gorge Bridge on the new stage just off the bridge
When: Sunday, May 31, 12:30-4:30 pm
Tuesday, May 19, 2015
Going with the Flow
It’s been a while! Sorry to be so out of touch for the last month. I didn’t have any weekend gigs to tell you about, but I could have written just to check in. I’m preparing for the summer season, and getting myself aligned for one of my favorite topics - going with the flow (never mind the rain that is flowing down outside as I write this...) What do I mean by "going with the flow"? Well, to me that means letting go and letting the moment take me wherever I’m needing to be. I had a good conversation with my good friend, Don Richmond, about this yesterday in the studio. In this life we work so hard on planning for where we’re headed today and this week and further out, and we keep past mistakes and missteps in mind so we don’t repeat them, and meanwhile we’re reminded by wise folks that the present moment is the most important thing in life. So we play at this dance of trying to be mindful while our mind shifts back and forth between past and future. I really felt this yesterday in the studio as I played take after take of a couple songs I was recording. You see, in the studio the only way to make a good take for me is to completely let go of my concentration on the mechanics of playing and put my thoughts instead on the mood of the song and the emotion I’m trying to convey or the story I’m trying to tell. When I think about what my fingers are doing it’s like concentrating on each step we take while walking - that can make us stumble and sometimes fall. But when the moment is being enjoyed and we are going with the flow of the overall activity then the playing or walking just happens effortlessly. We can even be aware of it and enjoy each movement and note without really concentrating on it. And as this summer gets busy I can only be successful and joyful if I go with the flow of the summer - enjoying each face and song and opportunity (and step) as it comes along.
So what have I been up to since my last blog?
The last time out at Magpies for the Spring was a lot of fun! Lots of folks were out and about, and we had a bittersweet time knowing we won’t be back there for music until next October. Then the rest of the month was spent doing my regular Alzheimer and nursing gigs, celebrating my birthday on the 25th, planning and rehearsing for the summer Song of Pueblo season, and working on instrumental guitar songs for my next album. Speaking of Song of Pueblo, we will have four shows this summer and fall at Pueblo Community College’s Hoag Hall - June 12, July 24, August 21, and September 12. I’m not sure of the price yet or where tickets will be sold, but I’ll let you know as soon as I can. And speaking of the instrumental guitar songs, I am following my guitar’s lead on creating a bunch of what I hope folks will find engaging and meaningful songs for my next album. I say "following my guitar’s lead” because I had thought I would write these songs mostly in my head and then find the melodies on the guitar after the fact, but my fingers wanted in on the action, and so the songs have mostly flowed out of my fingers when I have sat down to write. I’m willing to write however the moment takes me, so I’m fine with letting my fingers find the melodies, and I think they have found some wonderful tunes so far. I’m anxious for you to hear them! More on that soon.
What’s up this week?
I have a wonderful gig this Sunday 2-5 that I have done for the past few summers that happens to be this weekend - the Summer in the Park concert at the Feed Store in Westcliffe. This is a beautiful outdoor amphitheater with pretty much perfect ambience for music in the shadow of the Sangre de Cristo mountains at the west end of Westcliffe. I have had wonderful experiences each time I have played this concert, and this year should shine as well. It’s a free concert, but you do need to bring a lawn chair to sit in the shade of the big canopy (they have a few there in case you forget). They have refreshments for sale, and if the weather is a little sloppy they usually bring the action into the restaurant, so don’t stay away if there are clouds that day. The restaurant and park is on 2nd Street just one block west of the main intersection at the west end of town and then one block north on the west side of the street. Please come out if you can. This a s wonderful concert venue for me, and I give it may all!
I’m also planning on doing an online concert soon, so stay tuned for that!
I’d better close up for now. The rain is going to make for a slow and cautious day. It’s good to be back in touch!
Best always,
Tom
Details this week:
Who: Tom Munch
What: playing and singing a concert in the mountains
Where: the Feed Store, 116 North 2nd Street, Westcliffe. 719-783-2771
When: Sunday, May 24, 2:00-5:00 pm
So what have I been up to since my last blog?
The last time out at Magpies for the Spring was a lot of fun! Lots of folks were out and about, and we had a bittersweet time knowing we won’t be back there for music until next October. Then the rest of the month was spent doing my regular Alzheimer and nursing gigs, celebrating my birthday on the 25th, planning and rehearsing for the summer Song of Pueblo season, and working on instrumental guitar songs for my next album. Speaking of Song of Pueblo, we will have four shows this summer and fall at Pueblo Community College’s Hoag Hall - June 12, July 24, August 21, and September 12. I’m not sure of the price yet or where tickets will be sold, but I’ll let you know as soon as I can. And speaking of the instrumental guitar songs, I am following my guitar’s lead on creating a bunch of what I hope folks will find engaging and meaningful songs for my next album. I say "following my guitar’s lead” because I had thought I would write these songs mostly in my head and then find the melodies on the guitar after the fact, but my fingers wanted in on the action, and so the songs have mostly flowed out of my fingers when I have sat down to write. I’m willing to write however the moment takes me, so I’m fine with letting my fingers find the melodies, and I think they have found some wonderful tunes so far. I’m anxious for you to hear them! More on that soon.
What’s up this week?
I have a wonderful gig this Sunday 2-5 that I have done for the past few summers that happens to be this weekend - the Summer in the Park concert at the Feed Store in Westcliffe. This is a beautiful outdoor amphitheater with pretty much perfect ambience for music in the shadow of the Sangre de Cristo mountains at the west end of Westcliffe. I have had wonderful experiences each time I have played this concert, and this year should shine as well. It’s a free concert, but you do need to bring a lawn chair to sit in the shade of the big canopy (they have a few there in case you forget). They have refreshments for sale, and if the weather is a little sloppy they usually bring the action into the restaurant, so don’t stay away if there are clouds that day. The restaurant and park is on 2nd Street just one block west of the main intersection at the west end of town and then one block north on the west side of the street. Please come out if you can. This a s wonderful concert venue for me, and I give it may all!
I’m also planning on doing an online concert soon, so stay tuned for that!
I’d better close up for now. The rain is going to make for a slow and cautious day. It’s good to be back in touch!
Best always,
Tom
Details this week:
Who: Tom Munch
What: playing and singing a concert in the mountains
Where: the Feed Store, 116 North 2nd Street, Westcliffe. 719-783-2771
When: Sunday, May 24, 2:00-5:00 pm
Monday, April 13, 2015
Connections and How Time Slips Away
This morning I find myself thinking of friends, family, connections, and how we maintain these in our lives. I spent last weekend with my family at a celebration of my mother's 90th birthday, and then yesterday a friend told me he was thinking of closing his 13-year blog, and that made me think of how people drift in and out of our lives. I’ve often heard it said that in the end the only thing that mattered to people was the relationships they had created and maintained in their lives. Looking at my extended family made me think of this. Many of them I do not know as well as I’d like to. Thinking of my friend not writing his blog makes me know that I won’t be thinking of him as often. Of course this is why we join sites like FaceBook, and this is why we have so many other communication tools. It all goes by so fast, and someone who is in your life today may not be in your life in a few years simply from lack of contact. It just happens that way through no intention, time just slips away. I’m not overly-sentimental about this, I just know that we have to make an effort to keep people in our lives. As human beings we can only concentrate on so many things, and keeping our priorities on what really matters in the long run is in need of a constant reminder. This life is a relatively short ride, and the adventures we experience and the lives we touch are the reasons we came here. Cherish it, my friends, and cherish each other!
What have I been up to since my last blog?
Magpies was a lot of fun the last time out. I had lots of friends there, and we really did up the mountain songs I had talked about. Then Easter was a day filled with family, memories, and food. I hope yours was joyous as well. As I said earlier, I went to another family gathering last weekend in celebration of my mom’s 90th birthday she had back in January. I got to see relatives I haven’t seen in many years, and we had a great time catching up.
What’s up this week?
I’ll be at Magpies for the last outing of the season this Friday 7-10. I’m always a little wistful when we put this gig into hibernation for the summer, and I always miss my good friends I get to see all winter and spring. Come on out if you get wistful too, or just if you want to have a good time celebrating the spring and the upcoming summer. It will be a blast!
That’s all for this week. I sure appreciate your friendship and thoughts.
Best always,
Tom
Details this week:
Who: Tom Munch
What: playing & singing
Where: Magpies, 229 S. Union, Pueblo. 719-542-5522
When: Friday, April 17, 7-10 pm
What have I been up to since my last blog?
Magpies was a lot of fun the last time out. I had lots of friends there, and we really did up the mountain songs I had talked about. Then Easter was a day filled with family, memories, and food. I hope yours was joyous as well. As I said earlier, I went to another family gathering last weekend in celebration of my mom’s 90th birthday she had back in January. I got to see relatives I haven’t seen in many years, and we had a great time catching up.
What’s up this week?
I’ll be at Magpies for the last outing of the season this Friday 7-10. I’m always a little wistful when we put this gig into hibernation for the summer, and I always miss my good friends I get to see all winter and spring. Come on out if you get wistful too, or just if you want to have a good time celebrating the spring and the upcoming summer. It will be a blast!
That’s all for this week. I sure appreciate your friendship and thoughts.
Best always,
Tom
Details this week:
Who: Tom Munch
What: playing & singing
Where: Magpies, 229 S. Union, Pueblo. 719-542-5522
When: Friday, April 17, 7-10 pm
Monday, March 30, 2015
Turning Everything Off / Magpies this Friday
I’m finding this morning that I can’t focus as easily as I usually do. One of the things I like to do is listen to podcasts or books on a bluetooth headset paired with my phone while I’m exercising and doing my daily routine. I try to find things that are educational or otherwise brain-stimulating so that they help me to keep sharp, but I also find that the continuous undercurrent of words can pull me under or give me a little angst when I need to slow down and dig deep. I just turned off a podcast, and so I’m feeling this as I try to write this morning. There’s been a lot of talk lately about shutting off devices where we get continuous notifications of updates and messages, and this is a concern for me as well (although you’d be surprised at how little of that I actually get). I know that some people meditate or do other solitary things to gain perspective. Music can do that for me sometimes - both listening and playing. I think even a good run/walk or a shower can do that - there’s good physical stimulation and solitary stillness involved. Turning off and listening to that stillness within can be very gratifying. I just did a little and came back to writing - a bit of a stretch, a close of the eyes, and a little breathing, and I’m back to center. Ahhh…
So what have the past two weeks been like?
St. Patrick’s Day was a blast. I think I got the Irish out of my system for the year, but I have to say that a lot of songs are sticking with me as I move on. There’s such passion in those songs! Magpies was a great time again. I did the mix I talked about doing - Jimmy Buffet, Beach Boys, John Denver. It was actually a little weird. We drifted onto other things as the night progressed. Then I played a friend’s mother’s funeral last Friday which I’m always honored to do, and they requested a newer song which I really enjoyed getting to know - “Dancing in the Sky”. It’s an honest take on loss and reflection on the afterlife that I really appreciated.
I’m also booking more for the summer. I just found out that I’ll be back at the Yellow Pine Guest Ranch in Cuchara for the Thursday-night barbeque mid-June through mid-August. I’m working on some dates for 8 Mile Grill by the Royal Gorge too, and I’m working on a big reunion the first weekend in October in Iowa for Philmont friends. And there’s more - stay tuned!
What’s up this week?
Friday I’m back at Magpies. This will probably be the next-to-last time at Magpies for the season, so come on out if you can! I haven’t made a plan for what music to do yet, but I think I’m leaning towards some mountain music as I look forward to getting into the mountains this summer. Is anyone up for that? Also I’m not playing anywhere for Easter - we have family plans, but I’m playing a lot of Easter and Spring music this week.
So that’s it for this week. Thank you for reading and corresponding and being such supportive friends!
Best always,
Tom
Details this week:
Who: Tom Munch
What: playing & singing
Where: Magpies, 229 S. Union, Pueblo. 719-542-5522
When: Friday, April 3, 7-10 pm
So what have the past two weeks been like?
St. Patrick’s Day was a blast. I think I got the Irish out of my system for the year, but I have to say that a lot of songs are sticking with me as I move on. There’s such passion in those songs! Magpies was a great time again. I did the mix I talked about doing - Jimmy Buffet, Beach Boys, John Denver. It was actually a little weird. We drifted onto other things as the night progressed. Then I played a friend’s mother’s funeral last Friday which I’m always honored to do, and they requested a newer song which I really enjoyed getting to know - “Dancing in the Sky”. It’s an honest take on loss and reflection on the afterlife that I really appreciated.
I’m also booking more for the summer. I just found out that I’ll be back at the Yellow Pine Guest Ranch in Cuchara for the Thursday-night barbeque mid-June through mid-August. I’m working on some dates for 8 Mile Grill by the Royal Gorge too, and I’m working on a big reunion the first weekend in October in Iowa for Philmont friends. And there’s more - stay tuned!
What’s up this week?
Friday I’m back at Magpies. This will probably be the next-to-last time at Magpies for the season, so come on out if you can! I haven’t made a plan for what music to do yet, but I think I’m leaning towards some mountain music as I look forward to getting into the mountains this summer. Is anyone up for that? Also I’m not playing anywhere for Easter - we have family plans, but I’m playing a lot of Easter and Spring music this week.
So that’s it for this week. Thank you for reading and corresponding and being such supportive friends!
Best always,
Tom
Details this week:
Who: Tom Munch
What: playing & singing
Where: Magpies, 229 S. Union, Pueblo. 719-542-5522
When: Friday, April 3, 7-10 pm
Monday, March 16, 2015
Getting to the Essence or Heart
I used to use a line in my publicity that talked about me having the ability to get to the heart of a song, and I have often wondered about that notion. What I meant in my publicity was that I liked to get to a bare representation of a song with just the melody and chords and the spirit of the song. We all have what we get out of a song, and I try to find this. I still try to, and I think looking at life in this way would reflect a kind of wisdom and distinction that we should all strive for. I have often seen situations where it was difficult to figure out what was going on - arguments between people or groups, or complex problems of building or failure, or maybe questions of logic and fallacy in a situation. The first thing this requires is making some distance and getting an overview or some perspective. The second requires reflection and drawing on previous experience and knowledge. Then it may require some research or questions. Finally you can make a comment or decision. Of course this all takes time and patience, and this is more rare nowadays, but I think it is important and worthwhile. What do you think? Is it worth getting to the heart of it?
Highlights from the past couple of weeks
Magpies was a lot of fun, although I tried to stick to what I talked about in my mailer as far as sticking to cowboy and comedy songs. It was a weird mix, to be sure, but we made the best of it, and I eventually broke away to requests and some crazy stuff. It's all good! I've also been playing a ton of Irish tunes to put people in the mood for St. Patrick's Day and bring out the Irish in me. It has been rest fun!
What's up this week?
Friday night I'm back at Magpies 7-10, and I just finished John Denver's autobiography, so I'm sure some of his songs will drift out of me. Other than that the better weather is putting me in the mind of fun outdoors music, so maybe a little Jimmy Buffet or the Beach Boys would be in order. I'm up for wherever the evening goes, so come on out and join in the energy of the music! We're sure to have some fun!
I just finished my taxes, so I'm up for a great week, and I hope you are too.
Best always,
Tom
Details this week:
Who: Tom Munch
What: playing & singing
Where: Magpies, 229 S. Union, Pueblo. 719-542-5522
When: Friday, March 20, 7-10 pm
Highlights from the past couple of weeks
Magpies was a lot of fun, although I tried to stick to what I talked about in my mailer as far as sticking to cowboy and comedy songs. It was a weird mix, to be sure, but we made the best of it, and I eventually broke away to requests and some crazy stuff. It's all good! I've also been playing a ton of Irish tunes to put people in the mood for St. Patrick's Day and bring out the Irish in me. It has been rest fun!
What's up this week?
Friday night I'm back at Magpies 7-10, and I just finished John Denver's autobiography, so I'm sure some of his songs will drift out of me. Other than that the better weather is putting me in the mind of fun outdoors music, so maybe a little Jimmy Buffet or the Beach Boys would be in order. I'm up for wherever the evening goes, so come on out and join in the energy of the music! We're sure to have some fun!
I just finished my taxes, so I'm up for a great week, and I hope you are too.
Best always,
Tom
Details this week:
Who: Tom Munch
What: playing & singing
Where: Magpies, 229 S. Union, Pueblo. 719-542-5522
When: Friday, March 20, 7-10 pm
Monday, March 2, 2015
Being Finished
I have a weird personal quirk I want to share with you that maybe you also have or have insight into. I'll give my philosophy about it as well. What is it? Well, I have this compelling desire to be finished with things. I mean, when I start a project or pretty much anything with a sequence of tasks I am always looking forward to when it's completed, almost as if once it is completed I will never have to return to it again. That makes sense when it's a big thing that I only do a few times in life like buying a house or taking a big trip, but I'm talking about things that I repeat every so often like washing clothes or trimming the weeds. Maybe it's sentimentality over doing things the "last time" - like the last time you used a certain pen or tool before you broke or lost it. Or maybe it has to do with wanting a sense of accomplishment and importance in completing a task. Or maybe it's fear of what comes next. Or maybe it's laziness that just wants to sit after completing a task. (Wow! There's a lot more to this than I expected when I broached this topic.) Maybe it's a lack of concentration or desire for work that requires keeping things organized and flowing - you know, just plain old fear of hard work. What do I really think? I think that I long for the peace that comes after completing a task, and I forget that the journey is sometimes as fulfilling as the destination. I also forget that the joys and little details in the experience can be even greater than the outcome. I wrote last week how the moment is so important. Funny how I come back around to this yet again. Ah, this life is sure interesting to figure out along the way! So how about you? Do you find a struggle within yourself with this same desire to be finished?
Highlights from the last couple weeks
Magpies was very fulfilling last time with some new faces and a bunch of '70's songs. It was definitely a little different than what I usually do at Magpies. And yet every time out is a little different as I go with the flow of the night and the folks who make it what it is. Music (and life) sure is fun!
What's up this week?
Friday I'm back at Magpies 7-10, and I'm thinking of doing something a little different again - maybe some cowboy songs or some comedy songs that I haven't done in a long time. Does that sound good? What would you like if you're coming? I'm always up for the good time we create together!
Better run. I just know it's going to snow again, and there's always so much to do.
Best,
Tom
Details this week:
Who: Tom Munch
What: playing & singing
Where: Magpies, 229 S. Union, Pueblo. 719-542-5522
When: Friday, March 6, 7-10 pm
Highlights from the last couple weeks
Magpies was very fulfilling last time with some new faces and a bunch of '70's songs. It was definitely a little different than what I usually do at Magpies. And yet every time out is a little different as I go with the flow of the night and the folks who make it what it is. Music (and life) sure is fun!
What's up this week?
Friday I'm back at Magpies 7-10, and I'm thinking of doing something a little different again - maybe some cowboy songs or some comedy songs that I haven't done in a long time. Does that sound good? What would you like if you're coming? I'm always up for the good time we create together!
Better run. I just know it's going to snow again, and there's always so much to do.
Best,
Tom
Details this week:
Who: Tom Munch
What: playing & singing
Where: Magpies, 229 S. Union, Pueblo. 719-542-5522
When: Friday, March 6, 7-10 pm
Monday, February 16, 2015
Looking Ahead
I’ve been booking my summer, and I have some exciting gigs to tell you about, but looking ahead always messes with my head a little bit. You see I subscribe to the idea that we should live for today - in the NOW - as I’ve heard it said. I even wrote in a song called “Accept Life” many years ago:
When will we learn to slow down & look at now
not to plan ahead or turn around, but to live now
not to attain a goal & so lose this moment
but this moment is my goal, the only thing I can truly know
I like the idea of living in the moment, and I don’t feel I practice it very often. Quite often I have to shake myself, look around, and enjoy what has been laid out before me - the beauty of nature, the kindness of those around me, the blessings that life has bestowed. Against that I have to plan ahead enough that I can strategize a little for my career and livelihood, and it makes for an interesting balancing act. I won’t philosophize too much about it, for there are many other ideas tied up with this that I have read and studied of late. It’s funny how these things pool in my thoughts more and more as I age, even though I first penned those words above over 30 years ago.
So what kind of gigs to I have to tell you about? Well:
Westcliffe at the Feed Store Amphitheater "Summer in the Park” series May 24, 2-5
Royal Gorge Bridge with the Atomic Fireballs May 31, 12:30-4:30, and also Labor Day weekend Fri-Sun
Song of Pueblo with the band June 19, July 24, and August 21 at PCC, 7:00
Yellow Pine mid-June to mid-August on Thursday nights
A series of Boy Scout shows including a concert at Philmont July 11
Outdoor concert at Lucy’s in La Veta July 17
Gold Rush Days in Buena Vista August 8 and 9
At least 7 other venues and concerts I’m working on
That’s almost as many as last year, and I wouldn’t doubt that it could end up being even busier than last year. Summer is the time to fly!
Highlights from the past couple weeks
Magpies was an absolute blast last time out! I had so many wonderful people come out and share in the “bonfire” as I called our shared experience last time. Also my nursing home gigs have been nothing but love songs with Valentine’s Day here and gone. We had so much fun sharing memories and favorite songs. My only regret is that Mardi Gras follows on so closely this year that I won’t get much chance to sing all my New Orleans favorites.
So what’s up this week?
Wednesday night I’m doing a private show for the Oddfellows Hall in Cañon City. I mention it because some of you may belong to that group, and also because I love doing shows for clubs like this, and I’d like you to consider my music if you ever are looking for entertainment for your club or party. Many times these kind of shows are completely different than my public shows - doing themes or stretching out even farther than usual.
Friday I’m back at Magpies 7-10 for what I hope will be another great time! I’m sure I’ll have some leftover Mardi Gras music lingering around me that I’ll want to share, and I have a hankering for some ’70’s singer/songwriter music if you’re in the mood for that. Come on out!
That’s it for this week!
Best always,
Tom
Details this week:
Who: Tom Munch
What: playing & singing
Where: Magpies, 229 S. Union, Pueblo. 719-542-5522
When: Friday, February 20, 7-10 pm
When will we learn to slow down & look at now
not to plan ahead or turn around, but to live now
not to attain a goal & so lose this moment
but this moment is my goal, the only thing I can truly know
I like the idea of living in the moment, and I don’t feel I practice it very often. Quite often I have to shake myself, look around, and enjoy what has been laid out before me - the beauty of nature, the kindness of those around me, the blessings that life has bestowed. Against that I have to plan ahead enough that I can strategize a little for my career and livelihood, and it makes for an interesting balancing act. I won’t philosophize too much about it, for there are many other ideas tied up with this that I have read and studied of late. It’s funny how these things pool in my thoughts more and more as I age, even though I first penned those words above over 30 years ago.
So what kind of gigs to I have to tell you about? Well:
Westcliffe at the Feed Store Amphitheater "Summer in the Park” series May 24, 2-5
Royal Gorge Bridge with the Atomic Fireballs May 31, 12:30-4:30, and also Labor Day weekend Fri-Sun
Song of Pueblo with the band June 19, July 24, and August 21 at PCC, 7:00
Yellow Pine mid-June to mid-August on Thursday nights
A series of Boy Scout shows including a concert at Philmont July 11
Outdoor concert at Lucy’s in La Veta July 17
Gold Rush Days in Buena Vista August 8 and 9
At least 7 other venues and concerts I’m working on
That’s almost as many as last year, and I wouldn’t doubt that it could end up being even busier than last year. Summer is the time to fly!
Highlights from the past couple weeks
Magpies was an absolute blast last time out! I had so many wonderful people come out and share in the “bonfire” as I called our shared experience last time. Also my nursing home gigs have been nothing but love songs with Valentine’s Day here and gone. We had so much fun sharing memories and favorite songs. My only regret is that Mardi Gras follows on so closely this year that I won’t get much chance to sing all my New Orleans favorites.
So what’s up this week?
Wednesday night I’m doing a private show for the Oddfellows Hall in Cañon City. I mention it because some of you may belong to that group, and also because I love doing shows for clubs like this, and I’d like you to consider my music if you ever are looking for entertainment for your club or party. Many times these kind of shows are completely different than my public shows - doing themes or stretching out even farther than usual.
Friday I’m back at Magpies 7-10 for what I hope will be another great time! I’m sure I’ll have some leftover Mardi Gras music lingering around me that I’ll want to share, and I have a hankering for some ’70’s singer/songwriter music if you’re in the mood for that. Come on out!
That’s it for this week!
Best always,
Tom
Details this week:
Who: Tom Munch
What: playing & singing
Where: Magpies, 229 S. Union, Pueblo. 719-542-5522
When: Friday, February 20, 7-10 pm
Monday, February 2, 2015
Healthy Obsession?
I'm having an internal debate today about obsession. If you know me at all you will know that I have a little bit of an obsessive streak in me. I think there are good and bad points about my obsession. On the good side I have no doubt that my obsessive behavior is what has allowed me to polish my music to a higher level, and it also allows me to be more meticulous in my business dealings - keeping everything ship-shape and in order. If you've seen me perform you know I also hang onto a free-form approach that lets me have a give-and-take with each song that puts me out on a limb where I sometimes fall, but I also often find some new musical idea that can be delightful! So what's bad about obsession? I think I hardly need to say in general. We all have seen OCD people that are so dysfunctional that they are a danger to themselves. For me my obsession is bad when I am compelled to rearrange the dishwasher (even though you know it cleans better that way) or so bound to finishing a project that I go hungry or am late to a gig. Sometimes this is just quirky behavior, but sometimes it is a real detriment, and when I am conscious of it I can control it and not let it lead me into a train-wreck. Overall I see obsession as an interesting fact of my life that I work with every day. I see it as a source of humor mostly, even though sometmes it frustrates me. How about you? Do you have an obsessive streak?
Highlights from the past couple of weeks.
I have to say what a great time I had at Magpies last time out. Everyone was so generous with spirit and emotion, and it felt like all of us contributing to a big bonfire. That's one of the most genuine thrills of doing music for me. I've also been having a great time dreaming up ideas for my instrumental album that I will record later this spring into summer. I really want to concentrate on beautiful melodies that transport the listener to new places.
What's up this week?
I'm back at Magpies Friday 7-10 for what I hope will be another wonderful experience. There are times I pinch myself with the great friends I have who support my musical habit. I hope you all get as much from me as I receive from you! Come out if you can.
Better get on with my Monday. Hope to see you soon!
Best,
Tom
Details this week:
Who: Tom Munch
What: playing & singing
Where: Magpies, 229 S. Union, Pueblo. 719-542-5522
When: Friday, February 6, 7-10 pm
Highlights from the past couple of weeks.
I have to say what a great time I had at Magpies last time out. Everyone was so generous with spirit and emotion, and it felt like all of us contributing to a big bonfire. That's one of the most genuine thrills of doing music for me. I've also been having a great time dreaming up ideas for my instrumental album that I will record later this spring into summer. I really want to concentrate on beautiful melodies that transport the listener to new places.
What's up this week?
I'm back at Magpies Friday 7-10 for what I hope will be another wonderful experience. There are times I pinch myself with the great friends I have who support my musical habit. I hope you all get as much from me as I receive from you! Come out if you can.
Better get on with my Monday. Hope to see you soon!
Best,
Tom
Details this week:
Who: Tom Munch
What: playing & singing
Where: Magpies, 229 S. Union, Pueblo. 719-542-5522
When: Friday, February 6, 7-10 pm
Monday, January 12, 2015
Time to Woodshed
It’s a bleary and foggy day outside. I just got back from walking our old collie, Kai, through the freezing wind and slickened roads. But even though you’d think it would put me in a funk, instead it reminds me of the old tales of history when folks hunkered down in their warm homes and woodshedded for the warmer days. It’s time to knit and cook and build things indoors to be used when the weather turns back to sunshine and green grass. So other than venturing out to commune in song and take care of weekly chores, I am holing up at home to write and be creative - and to plan for the summer season. So I’ll be brief today. Take heart and buck up during the winter days, and prepare for the changes to come, my friends. There are warm yellow days ahead!
What’s up this week
Friday I’m back at Magpies 7-10. After having a few weeks away I’m anxious to share an evening with good friends and the music that lights the corners of our minds. Please come out if you can!
Best,
Tom
Details this week:
Who: Tom Munch
What: playing & singing
Where: Magpies, 229 S. Union, Pueblo. 719-542-5522
When: Friday, January 16, 7-10 pm
What’s up this week
Friday I’m back at Magpies 7-10. After having a few weeks away I’m anxious to share an evening with good friends and the music that lights the corners of our minds. Please come out if you can!
Best,
Tom
Details this week:
Who: Tom Munch
What: playing & singing
Where: Magpies, 229 S. Union, Pueblo. 719-542-5522
When: Friday, January 16, 7-10 pm
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