FALLing into Music
By Patty Castillo Davis
Autumn is the crowning glory of the year and the prelude to all things ghoulish and sacred at the same time. With mostly cooperative weather and limitless choices, you can partake in every type of event where music is the focus.
I would be remiss if I did not mention the MAMAs. On October 11 at the historic State Theater, nominees from across the 209 in multi-genres of music will be recognized. If you did not nominate your favorites or vote, please-no dissent. Keep playing your heart out and booking those shows. Create a strong, unrelenting online presence, be high profile. Put forth the best product you can and when the summons comes around, “Who do you think should be nominated for a MAMA?”, speak your mind during this time. Later is too late. Please read my previous piece online about the 2016 Unplugged/Songwriter nominees and visit pattycastillodavis.com for my picks in each category.
Now in its fourth year, the Yosemite Songwriting Retreat, October 7-10 is an intensive weekend of instruction with a variety of accomplished songwriters. This year’s instructors include Grammy winning Americana artist Laurie Lewis, fierce slide guitar player and poet David Jacobs-Strain and soulful and heartfelt songsmith Keith Greeninger. In addition to classes and workshops, there will be opportunities to perform and record your songs and sign up for mentor sessions and get individual attention. Anyone 18 years and older can participate. Previous songwriting is welcome but not necessary. For more information visit www.yosemitesongwriting.com.
I would like to call on all Unplugged/Songwriter talent in the area to please contact me at pattycastillodavis.com if you are interested in bringing your music to some fine venues in the 209, promote your product and reach a larger audience. Send your existing event dates for publishing on or before October 16. As usual, keep making original music, team write with another, join the 52 Week Club, test your art at an open mic but by all means create.
