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

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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

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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.

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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.

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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

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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