Networks

Introduction

I started playing violin in 1971, but it took me into the mid 1980's to get decent notes and be able to play with other people, I love the blues and My influences go all the back to the 60s. My first blues experience was listening to Fred McDowell.

What are your top two (or three) venues for Blues in the Valley of the Sun? What do you like about each, e.g. sound system, acoustics, service, location, parking, overall ambiance, etc.

Rhythm Room Chars, they both have very good sound systems and the Rhythm has great parking and the location is great because I live about a half mile from the venue. Chars has some very good musicians to play with and learn from. I'll be playing there tonight as a guest performer.

What if anything, could be improved about Blues venues in the Valley? (Please no specific names, just general observations that might be helpful to all venue owners as they read this site's posts.)

Better advertisement and educated people about the beauty and stories of the blues and more group participation, especially with young people who may not understand the truths, soulful experiences and the happiness that playing the blues brings to you.

What are your favorite Blues venues anywhere outside of the valley, and what do you like about them?

House of Blues and the Chicago Bar in Tucson. They have excellent bands and musicians attending, a big dance floor to express your self. The House of Blues books exceptional and top blues artists.

Besides hearing or playing Blues, what activities might you enjoy or support by attending, if offered through this group?

Meeting new people sharing my experiences and sharing info out of a chapter in my book entitled Fiddlin My Life Away, a chapter based on the history of blues, all the blues songs I have learned over the years and my continuing and extensive study of blues musicians. I would be interested in teaching about blues history and blues music, and especially teach any one interested in blues violin, I love people and the blues, I'm lots of fun and funny and I think I would be a good teacher.

Are you interested in actively supporting or facilitating events in any ways? Such activities might include welcoming members at meetups.... maintaining a sign-in list at major events... answering questions from new members... or others.

Yes and helping with events and circulating flyers, because I come in contact with so many people. Or just kicking back and jamming with new players and having fun, that's what Pete Chatman (memphis Slim) and Willie Dixon said "the blues reaches the depths of your heart, makes ya feel good and were just having fun."