Saturday, March 31, 2012

Music and the Future

Music is such an amazing thing. I'm not sure how people would function without it. I've talked to so many people lately that have told me how much music means to them. Some people say it is great stress relief for them to listen to their favorites and swear that it changes their mood from negative to positive. Others have found comfort in listening to a song that describes their current situation. Music is used to motivate athletes to perform better and get the most out of their training. Music therapists are aware of the therapeutic effects it has on patients. Employers have found that their employees are more productive when they listen to music. People of all ages have certain tunes that they connect with. It seems that music is an important and positive part of life in every culture. So, I ask you...why are our schools ensuring that music doesn't have a future? Schools are cutting their music programs and/or not allowing adequate rehearsal time...all to save a buck. We end up destroying the things that are good in this world, because we fail to see the big picture. Take a look at some of your favorite artists and see how they got their start in music. Many will confirm that they started to take an interest in music due to their school music programs. Consider the role that music plays in your life. Try to go without listening to music...no radio, no I-pod, put down the guitar. Drive to work in silence. Work out at the gym without music. Imagine movies and TV without music. No more concerts. Enjoy your parties and gatherings without music. Now do me a favor and see to it that music isn't being cut from your school. Support your local music programs, music teachers, and performers. Pay attention when a government official decides to cut funding for the arts. I bet they listen to music on their way to work too. Don't allow music to become extinct. It is one of the few things left that we all enjoy in various ways...but we take it for granted. Thanks.

Thursday, March 29, 2012

Change of Plans

As I have yet to find the right musicians in my current location, I have decided to work with a band in the next city down the road...a couple hours away. They are familiar with my style and I'm familiar with theirs. We are in the initial stages of recording an album. While the drive is less than ideal, especially with the rising costs at the gas pump, I feel that it will definitely be worth the cost. I have a good feeling about this band and they are feeling good too. We all have the same goal and understand the workload that is before us. New gear has been purchased and new songs are underway. The recording studio/producer knows what we want to achieve. I feel like there is an unspoken, intense level of commitment and the desire to succeed. So far, so good!

Saturday, March 17, 2012

Ups and Downs

I am still waiting patiently for things to become more consistent with my band. I have auditioned quite a few musicians but have yet to find the right sound, style, or dependable individuals. When I explain to people that this week I'm in need of a guitar player, and last week I needed a bass...now I need both...they don't quite understand why I am still pursuing this dream. I will not quit. I know the right musicians are out there. In the mean time, I have been working with the band members that are consistent. It has come to the point that I might need to hire the missing pieces so that I can complete a recording. I hesitate to do this since it will cost a ton and the studio musicians will not understand the music the way a rehearsed band would. In the mean time, I am still auditioning musicians and writing some songs that I'm really excited about!

I have recorded piano/vocal versions of Lzzy Hale's (Halestorm) "Familiar Taste of Poison"  and Amy Lee's (Evanescence) "Good Enough" . I also included one of my originals "My Response".  If the links do not work...just search for Keri Weber on YouTube. I am looking forward to the day when I can share the band versions of my originals with you. I appreciate all of the support and encouragement you have given me. I love what I do, but it gives me an extra boost to know that there are people that support me. It means so much. Thank you!