Taurus 3 bass pedal (c) Moogmusic

I wrap up my coverage on NAMM 2010 with a special article, special to me for many reasons. I am a music tech buff or geek as some like to call me. I can’t deny it, bad habit. I am also a history buff; I love to listen to treasured stories. I can’t refute that, and I won’t kick the habit. But most of all, I can’t deny that my love for playing music has enabled me to connect with people … and that leaves me eternally grateful.

1st day at NAMM – - I picked up my badge at the will-call station in the lobby of the Anaheim Convention Center. Had to place the printout which bore my name and Moog Music Inc, into the given plastic holder. Also printed on the badge was the letter ‘A’ in white which sat in the middle of a black square designed in the lower right-hand corner. ‘A’ – - stood for ‘artist’.
Why am I telling you all this? That’s because of the strange sensation that washed over me as I realised all curious by-starers would ‘recognise’ me as a Moog artist … and it made me want to get down on my knees.

I visited family when I caught up with the folks at Moogmusic. That’s how I consider them; family.

The name Moog (pronounced like ‘vogue’) is known for technology that has made music history. The home-grown company has stayed true to its roots by continuing to come up with fantastical products while keeping the legacy of its founder alive. Robert Moog’s inventions left an indelible mark in the sound palette of the world (read footnote) and thanks to their strong following, no product stays long as a number on the production line. (continue reading…)

House concert in CA

The idea for house concerts is neither a new fad nor the latest. Most of us are familiar with the concept of patrons of the arts opening their homes to artists of the classical music persuasion.

These patrons host a private event where friends are entertained, and have the opportunity to mingle with the artist(s). The chance to get intimate with the artist(s) while they spin an exotic yarn or two is often the real reason these musical soirées have ample attendance, and why a reply to Répondez s’il vous plaît is never tardy.

House concert in CA

In America, the trend for house concerts by mainstream – pop artists has become a ‘household’ name, to a point where societies in support of this activity have sprung up to provide helpful hints for hosts and artists alike. (continue reading…)