The guitar wizard

HE may look cool and laidback but when he lets his fingers do the talking on the acoustic guitar, the result is a succession of beautiful tone poems.

Known for his prowess and finesse on the six-stringed wooden instrument, Az Samad is always looking for new musical adventures through collaborations to express his creativity.

“In every of my musical collaborations, I feel this collective desire to search beyond what’s in our comfort zone and to try something that will challenge us,” says the soft-spoken and bespectacled musician during an interview in Bangsar, Kuala Lumpur.

Having worked on a cross-discipline collaboration with actor/spoken word artiste Davina Goh, Az explains that it took time to be fully formed but the results were more epic than initially expected.

Another memorable collaboration was with long time friend Richard Moss, a British multi-instrumentalist and singer.

“I met him in 2003 when we attended Eric Roche’s guitar workshop in Devon, Britain,” he says.

Last year, Az had the opportunity to spend several days playing music with Moss, culminating in a joint performance together for an art exhibition launch.

“This year, for my solo European tour in June-July, we’re also planning another show together,” says the 30-something Berklee-trained guitarist.

SATAY TRIO

His latest project is a collaboration with fellow Malaysians, Fung Chern Hwei, a New York-based multi-genre violinist, and Brooklyn-based vocalist Cheryl Tan.

According to Az, Fung had messaged him via Facebook and wanted to perform A Lotus On Irish Streams, a John McLaughlin song from The Mahavishnu Orchestra, together.

“We’d never met but we knew of each other through mutual friends,” he says. “Since he was in New York, we had to wait till he was back for Chinese New Year.”

He says that Fung was easy to work with and blew him away at their first rehearsal session with his amazing musicality.

“Then my manager suggested adding Cheryl since it would be interesting to have vocals in the mix,” says Az, who had worked with her on last year’s Malaysian Music Project.

He adds: “She’s like this musical encyclopaedia of song lyrics and melodies, with a great voice and quirky sense of humour, which really makes it fun to perform together.”

For tonight’s The Satay Trio concert, Az will bring his distinctive style — a mix of fingerstyle guitar, jazz, classical and folk influences — to the music.

He explains that the repertoire for the concert will be a varied selection of originals and covers with an acoustic feel and lots of improvisation. “It’s beautiful music that everyone can enjoy, even if you’re not a musician.”

Numbering around 15, the songs include Malaysian classics Getaran Jiwa and Yang Indah (music by Saidah Rastam and lyrics by Khir Rahman).

When looking for collaborators, Az lays his conditions out simply with: “Low drama, high musicality.”

“I look for people with a very strong vision, confidence and personality, just creative people with interesting ideas,” he says.

PERFORMER-COMPOSER-EDUCATOR

Having performed in the US, Europe and Asia, Az says: “As a performer, it’s the most expressive thing I do, to share the music with an audience.”

“There’s a certain kind of magic in playing and listening to music live,” says the unassuming guitarist, who has performed as a classical guitar soloist with, and as part of, the MPO in several concerts at DFP in KL. (Catch him with the MPO this weekend for the Abba Goes Symphonic concert). He was also the opening act for concerts by Tommy Emmanuel and Martin Taylor.

“Composing is a way of discovering my musical identity,” says Az who has appeared on 16 CDs (seven of which are his solo releases) and has worked with the likes of Grammy winners Flaco Jimenez and Max Baca, drummer Bernie Dresel (Brian Setzer Orchestra), singer-songwriter Tara Linda and guitarist Adam Rafferty, to name a few.

As an educator, the KL-based guitarist is happy to give back to the musical community. “I’ve been very fortunate to study with so many great musicians here and internationally and by passing on the knowledge to my students, I hope they’ll become amazing musicians who’ll enrich whatever music scene they’re a part of,” he says.

Az has been on the faculty of Berklee College of Music’s Summer Guitar Sessions and has taught workshops at Wesleyan University in Middletown, Connecticut, as well as many other venues.

He’ll be holding workshops and performing from March 9-11 at the Mosaic Music Festival in Singapore.

“All these different aspects combine to make my music experience richer,” says Az of his role as performer-composer and educator.

LOCAL INDIE SCENE

“I’ve been a part of the local indie scene since 2003 and there are many more open mic events now and much more variety in terms of acts,” says Az, who has been hosting his own open mic sessions at the Venue in Pavilion since September last year.

He credits the YouTube generation who have grown up by uploading videos online.

“The good thing is that they’re all constantly recording their music now and reaching out to a bigger audience.”

He also notes that the more established acts like Reza Salleh and Liyana Fizi are reaching out further with performances and tours overseas.

“The singer-songwriter scene is getting braver collectively and this is a good thing — we’re aiming bigger and achieving bigger things.”

GUITAR LOVE

Az confesses that the guitar has always intrigued him.

“It’s got a shorter history compared to the piano or violin but it has influenced so many styles of music,” he says.

The son of National Laureate A. Samad Said, Az got into guitar playing after discovering US grunge rock band Nirvana’s Unplugged In New York album.

Upon his dad’s suggestion, he took up classical guitar and later jazz learning under various teachers.

Quoting virtuoso Spanish classical guitarist Andres Segovia who said that the guitar is a small orchestra, Az is happy that there are so many facets to the instrument.

On the one thing most people don’t know about Az Samad, he quickly replies: “I play the electric guitar too!”

The versatile guitarist has been dividing his time between acoustic and electric since his student days in the US, from 2005 onwards.

“My latest work, The Amsterdam Recordings, is a solo electric guitar album and I’ve also just recorded a new all solo electric release, that’s coming up soon.” (visit www.azsamad.com for details).

Az, the cool and laidback guitar hero

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Andy Griggs Releases Naked Acoustic Album

Andy Griggs’ 2013 album, Naked. Photo courtesy of Webster & Associates.

Andy Griggs has released his latest album, NAKED. The album is entirely acoustic, just Andy and his guitar, and includes original songs as well as covers from artists who have influenced him such as Waylon Jennings’ “Old Timer” and Willie Nelson’s“Angel Flying  Too Close To the Ground.” iTunes has named the album ‘New and Noteworthy’ on their country page.

“I’m addicted to pure and raw feelings that’s as still and quiet as the wind,” Andy said. “Throwing your heart out whether it’s healthy or broken. Exposing a hurting soul! Bearing and giving it all with that ol’ piece of wood and 6 strings! It’s underwear on the couch, singing until daylight. It’s vulnerability to yourself. It’s vulnerability to your friends. It’s vulnerability to a crowd of strangers. In short, it’s all about bein’ NAKED!”

“Witnessing this recording session solidified all of my beliefs about Andy’s undeniable talent and the sheer, transcendent power of music and fulfilled all my expectations,” Andy’s manager Cathy Nakos said. “One track, one singer/musician, raw, no frills, totally vulnerable, one engineer, no punching…it was magical and incredible to behold. How could one person/artist put himself out there for all to see, totally exposed, mistakes and all, but totally willing to sacrifice for the authenticity and soul-baring honesty and pure emotion of the songs. How could we title this album anything but NAKED?”

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Acoustic guitarist Kottke will play Park City this weekend

Acoustic guitarist Leo Kottke, who will perform at the Egyptian Theatre this weekend, has been nominated for two Grammy awards and has a Doctorate in Music Performance by the Peck School of Music at the University of Wisconsin, Milwaukee.

He's also a Navy veteran and has been performing his music for nearly 50 years.

Kottke's schedule was a little tight these past couple of weeks, but he was able to answer some questions from The Park Record though email.

Park Record: What was it about the guitar that steered you away from the other musical instruments you tried when you were a child?

Leo Kottke: That would be an E chord. Changed my life, gave me a life. I think I played that chord for about two weeks. When I got to the A I knew I was in trouble.

I continued for a while with the trombone but its days were numbered. I still have the horn, it's sitting across from me. About once a year I'll pick it up and play a scale. My embouchure has not improved.

PR: What was your first guitar, and do you still have it?

LK: It was a toy, a gift from my mother. I'd been sick for a long time and it was something I could play on my back. Trombone didn't cut it. The "guitar" fell apart about two weeks in. It had no sound, no sense, and no self-respect, but it gave me a way out and a way in. Thanks Mom.

As Dick Rosmini told me years later, after I'd been complaining about a guitar I had, "If you really know how to play, it doesn't matter what guitar you're playing."

He was right.

But, obviously, it also doesn't matter what guitar you're playing if you know nothing at all. That's what got me out of bed and saved my life.

PR: What was your initial goal for your music and has that changed throughout your 50-year career?

LK: No goal. Goals are the enemy. All I wanted was to play the thing. I'm still trying to do that. I'm glad for the chance.

PR: How have you been able to maintain (your career), especially though the many changes in the music climate over the years?

LK: The music climate probably doesn't exist. Some kind of marketing stuff exists and that's whatever that is, but it isn't music.

First there was the mob, then there was the union, after that I lose track.

I could put in a nod to Capitol Records. That was an extraordinary company. Or (Takoma Records') John Fahey. Or (record producers) John Hammond, senior and

junior. These are cultural motions and they are self-generating. Marketing is milking.

Music happens for someone alone in a room for a long time with some kind of instrument. The big event is when they walk out the door. After that a lot of us turn around and go back in the room. That's music. It's like food. You can't walk away from, or maintain, food.

PR: Many people consider you a master musician and you have not only been nominated for two Grammys, but also have a doctorate in music performance from the Peck School of Music. With that said, do you still try to discover new ways to play and perform your music?

LK: The guitar is running everything. I have no choice. It's a form of suicide anyhow to decide ahead of time what you're going to do on an instrument. If it isn't suicide it's at least stupid.

The instrument will wise you up, though, and you'll start to learn a few things; but sometimes, as Woody Herman did, you'll just turn it into a lamp.

Meanwhile, it's a form of vanity to remain self-taught. Sooner or later you have to do your homework. There's always more to find, always people you can stand next to — from beginners to virtuosi.

PR: Do you have any special plans regarding your three concerts at the Egyptian Theatre here in Park City?

LK: I don't, really. The most important part of performance is risk. If you eliminate that you've eliminated performance. You've also nearly guaranteed that you won't have a good time. It's a privilege to play but it's rude, especially if you're a soloist, to "map it out." It shows. Better to make a fool of yourself than never to show your face.

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Freelove Freeway: Gervais's David Brent Picks Up The Acoustic Guitar , Again

Ten years after David Brent left The Office's Christmas party, the excruciating former boss of Wernham Hogg is back and doing what he does best, sort of. That's rep-ping and playing the acoustic guitar. Ricky Gervais is back as his most famous creation for a one-off special entitled 'The Office Revisited' for Comic Relief.

A short trailer for the new episode hit the web this week, showing Brent embarking on a side job career as a would-be music mogul while still milking his "cash cow" job as a sales rep to pay the bills. Brent sells cleaning products door-to-door though puts most of his efforts into a rapper called Dom Johnson. He's even written a "political reggae" song titled 'Equality Street' for his new signing.

After 'The Office' - widely considered one of the finest British comedies of all time - Gervais tempted A-list celebrities to appear as themselves in Extras, another comedy series that was generally well received by critics. His edgy turn as host of the Golden Globes on three occasions did little to harm his reputation, though his next television projects 'Life's Too Short' and 'Derek' came in for heavy criticism. 

With '...Revisited,' Gervais returns to safer ground on March 15, 2013, though reception to his latest few projects will be of concern. Though initially praised for cutting The Office short, perhaps the comedian should consider bringing back Brent for good. Steve Coogan's Alan Partridge web-series 'Mid-Morning Matters' was considered among the finest material of his career and a feature length movie is currently shooting in Norwich. Brent could learn a thing or two from North Norfolk's favourite son.

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Announcing Guitar Virtuoso Leo Kottke at Uptown Theatre Napa on 3/21/13

Catch 'An Evening with Leo Kottke' live on Thursday, March 21st, 2013 at the Uptown Theatre. Doors open at 7:00pm, show starts at 8:00pm

Napa, CA (PRWEB) February 21, 2013

Innovative acoustic guitar virtuoso Leo Kottke has been awarded two Grammy nominations and a Doctorate in Music Performance by the Peck School of Music at the University of Wisconsin, Milwaukee. Born September 11, 1945 in Athens, Georgia and raised in 12 different states, he absorbed a variety of musical influences as a child, flirting with both violin and trombone, before abandoning Stravinsky-- "I haven't been that hip since"-- for the guitar at age 11.

Kottke's 1971 major-label debut, "Mudlark," positioned him somewhat uneasily in the singer/songwriter vein, despite his own wishes to remain an instrumental performer. Still, despite battles with label heads, Kottke flourished during his tenure on Capitol, as records like 1972's "Greenhouse" and 1973's live "My Feet Are Smiling" and "Ice Water" found him branching out with guest musicians and unusual song covers, all the while honing his propulsive finger-picking mastery.

The beginning of his tenure on the Private Music label coincided with the beginnings of a shift in technique, abandoning fingerpicks for fingertips. "It was like somebody turned the lights on." After 986's reflective "A Shout Toward Noon," he did not re-enter the studio until recording "Regards From Chuck Pink" in 1988. He released an album annually from 1989 to 1991, following "My Father's Face," another T-Bone Burnett production, with "That's What" and finally "Great Big Boy," produced by Steve Berlin. Two years later, Kottke returned with "Peculiaroso," which featured production by Rickie Lee Jones.

The solo "One Guitar No Vocals" followed in 1999, but it was his collaboration with Phish bassist Mike Gordon, "Clone," that caught audiences' attention in 2002. Kottke and Gordon followed with a recording in the Bahamas called "Sixty Six Steps," produced by Leo's old friend and Prince producer David Z.

Tickets for 'An Evening with Leo Kottke' are $35. They are on sale now and can be purchased through the theatre website at http://www.uptowntheatrenapa.com, at Ticketmaster (http://www.ticketmaster.com) or at the theatre box office (please call 707.259.0123 ext. 6 for hours). To find out more, please visit http://www.uptowntheatrenapa.com.

The Uptown Theatre Napa is downtown’s ultimate destination for live concerts. Nestled in the famed West End district, this stunningly restored art deco masterpiece showcases only the finest acts, featuring music, comedy and more. An historic landmark, the Uptown offers a phenomenal, intimate live show experience, with excellent site lines and world class sound and lighting. As concert venues go, this is the place to be. Every seat is a great seat so buy concert tickets now!

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Duke of uke - Suburban Life Publications

After a long, grueling day at work, Batavia resident Kathy Kussro doesn’t resort to a bubble bath or a glass of Chardonnay to unwind. No, she has found an offbeat alternative – playing the ukulele.

“When I come home from my job, I’ll play a couple songs on my uke and it relaxes me after talking to hundreds of people at work,” she said. Kussro, technical support specialist at West Chicago’s In the Swim, learned to play the instrument at Hix Brothers Music Store on Wilson Street in Batavia. She takes lessons with a group of seven other students, ranging in age from five to 61.

That’s the beauty of music according to Peter Hix, owner and chief ukulele teacher at Hix Brothers.

“It transcends age,” he says. The group lessons, which he refers to as the "ukulele club," have been offered for the past two years at the Batavia store, 1941 W. Wilson Batavia, and for three years at the Aurora Hix location.

“We get together, play music and have fun,” said Hix, adding that sometimes, he will play along on the lap steel, a type of steel guitar, with his students.

The ukulele is a small four-stringed instrument that looks like a miniature guitar. Portuguese laborers brought a version of it to Hawaii in the nineteenth century. It first became popular at the 1915 Panama-Pacific International Exposition in San Francisco and has since experienced waves of popularity in the 1920s and 1950s. In 1999, Israel Kamakawiwo’ole played a version of “Over the Rainbow” on his uke and it was used in a commercial for eToys. The song was so popular that it has been licensed more than 100 times to sell everything from food to paint. In 2002, former Beatle Paul McCartney fueled a new uke frenzy when he played it in a tribute concert for fellow Beatle George Harrison who often played the instrument and had recently passed away. Four years later, Jake Shimabukuro, who Hix said is the most famous uke player today, received millions of hits on YouTube with his version of Harrison’s “My Guitar Gently Weeps.”

Hix said he had always carried ukuleles in his store but started to order more when customers’ interest in it grew. Then, when the ukulele (also referred to as the uke) made a comeback about two years ago, Hix decided to offer lessons. There is one beginner-level ukulele group at the Batavia location and three more advanced groups at the Aurora site.

He attributes this craze to the music of Kamakawiwo’ole and Shimabukuro as well as to movies, TV commercials and bands that incorporate the unique sound of the ukulele. For instance, it was a big feature in Train’s 2009 hit “Hey, Soul Sister.” The 2010 movie “Mighty Uke: The Amazing Comeback of a Musical Underdog” also drew people to the instrument, Hix said.

Its popularity is not surprising, according to Hix. “It’s a social, happy instrument and it’s easy to play with only four strings,” he said.

Indeed, Kussro learned to play Van Morrison’s “Brown-Eyed Girl” in one 45-minute class. She also learned to play “Happy Birthday” which comes in handy at parties, she said.

Fellow uke club member Kristi Pinkepank also likes that the uke is easy to play. The Batavia resident and Waubonsee Community College student has taken lessons on and off for about two years and enjoys it because the music is light and uplifting.

“We play happy, simple and fun songs, like the classic Hawaiian music and some Beatles hits that I really like,” she said. Plus, the instrument itself doesn't warrant a big investment.They range in price from $35 for a beginner model to $1,300 for a handmade Hawaiian instrument.

“I got mine for about $40,” Pinkepank said, adding she has joined the groups in performances at special events, such as the Batavia Trader Joe’s summer 10th anniversary party. The more advanced students perform at a variety of functions, playing old-school Hawaiian as well as Jawaiian (Jamaican-Hawaiian) songs. Occasionally vocal and bass students from Hix will accompany the ukulele orchestra.

 

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DC Comics Super Heroes Guitars & Accessory Line Coming from Peavey ... - The Daily BLAM!

 

Available exclusively from Peavey – under license with Warner Bros. Consumer Products on behalf of DC Entertainment – these new musical instruments will capture DC Comics Super Heroes Superman, Batman, Wonder Woman, The Flash, Green Lantern and many more, in highly detailed artwork on guitars, percussion instruments and accessories. The instruments will be specially designed for DC Comics enthusiasts, serious collectors, and musicians of every skill level from beginner to pro.

“We are thrilled about this unique partnership with Peavey Electronics that unites the worlds of music and the DC Comics Super Heroes. Fans of all ages and skill levels will now be able to show off their musical super powers with this unique line of instruments and accessories,” said Karen McTier, Domestic Licensing and Worldwide Marketing, Warner Bros. Consumer Products.

“We are excited about bringing together these two iconic brands and creating something special,” said Hartley Peavey, founder and CEO of Peavey Electronics. “Musicians, music fans and comic aficionados alike will be delighted and inspired by these new musical instruments featuring their favorite DC Comics Super Heroes.”

The new product line will debut in summer 2013 with a half-size Peavey acoustic guitar featuring the DC Comics Super Heroes, followed by a three-quarter size Peavey electric guitar and the full-size Peavey Rockmaster® electric guitar. Peavey will also release guitar picks and straps featuring DC Comics Super Heroes and villains such as Aquaman and The Joker, as well as Watchmen and other fan favorites.

Founded in 1965, Peavey Electronics has been a leading manufacturer and supplier of musical instruments since the company revolutionized guitar making by introducing computer-aided manufacturing techniques in the 1970s to vastly improve quality and consistency. Today, the methods Peavey pioneered are the industry standard worldwide.

Peavey and the DC Comics-inspired musical instruments and accessories will be available in summer 2013 at specialty and major national retailers.

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At Colburn School, Adult Student Musicians Get to the Head of the Class - LA Downtown News Online

DOWNTOWN LOS ANGELES - To most Downtown denizens, the Colburn School is the exclusive Bunker Hill conservatory that breeds the philharmonic players of tomorrow. In other words, weekend piano warriors need not apply. 

That has changed. 

School officials are working hard to bring more amateur string bowers and horn blowers to its campus via a recently launched curriculum for adults. If all goes as planned, the Adult Studies Program will not only deliver more students to the Grand Avenue campus, it will grow the institution’s supporter base and fill additional seats in its performance halls.

Now nearly midway through its second 13-week term, the program is looking beyond traditional musician breeding grounds for students. In particular it is calling out to those living in Downtown Los Angeles lofts and working in local office towers. 

The curriculum targets everyone from the corporate lawyer looking to dust off the clarinet that hasn’t been touched in years, to the semi-pro violinist in need of fine-tuning from a conservatory coach. Some classes, including a series on music appreciation, require no experience or musical know-how.

While the school has long offered lessons to the public including classes for children through its Community School, the Adult Studies Program represents a new focus on older musicians.

“It’s an incredible opportunity for us to engage more people,” said Sel Kardan, Colburn’s president and CEO. “Adult students sometimes have the longest tenure at an institution. We might have a young person for conservatory and they’re here two or four years, but adult learners could potentially be with us for decades.”

 For those who already have a handle on their instrument, there is a range of group performance classes, from a jazz combo to a wind instrument symphony. Such classes offer serious coaching for skilled players like Jim Bright, who has recently re-devoted himself to piano after a couple decades away from the keyboard.

Bright, who owns an executive search firm on the west side of Los Angeles, discovered the Colburn School through his daughter, who plays the clarinet. Now, after years of ferrying her to classes, he attends adult chamber music workshops that bring experienced classical musicians into a group setting to tackle ensemble pieces.

“I think that the level of professionalism is extremely high there and there’s no other place in L.A. where you can get the same level, particularly as an adult,” Bright said. “And hooking up with other people that are interested in playing chamber music isn’t always easy.”

Shaking Off the Rust

Classes meet weekly and cost anywhere from $15 per session for “Brass and Brew,” a two-date course for horn players that culminates with beer tastings, to $556 for the Piano Master Class. Classes are one to two hours long and most meet in the early evening on weeknights.  

The classes run the gamut in terms of style and ability. Those aimed at experienced players include the Flute Choir and the Jazz Combo. 

For the less experienced, there is a beginner guitar group class and five different six-week courses in music appreciation. Those range from a survey of rock music to the nuts and bolts of opera.

Susan Heard, a longtime Colburn volunteer, is among a small group of people who signed up for a course called Downtown Concertgoing. Some sessions involve, naturally, attending a performance. Others center on discussions about the show, with in-class instrumental demonstrations from Colburn students.

“It has completely changed the way I listen to music,” Heard said.

So far, the adult-oriented program is drawing a diverse new student base comprised of Downtown workers, residents and people commuting from around Los Angeles, said Nathaniel Zeisler, who was hired last year to be the school’s first director of community engagement and continuing education. Altogether, there are 13 classes in music performance or theory offered per semester, along with five music appreciation classes. Currently approximately 150 students are enrolled.

“We have students who work at [the law firm] Gibson, Dunn [& Crutcher] and at the Jet Propulsion Laboratory,” Zeisler said. “They want to keep learning, they want to keep playing and we want to help them in that path.”

Some of the Adult Studies courses, including the Colburn Community Chorale, also offer the opportunity to get on stage. The 45-member chorale, which is led by Steven Kronauer, who has master’s degrees and a doctorate in vocal performance and conducting, builds up to two end-of-term performances.

“We’re offering another opportunity for people to sing and to sing high quality,” Kronauer said.

The new community push isn’t restricted to music. As part of the attempt to bring a wider audience to the Grand Avenue campus, the school has expanded its yoga and Pilates class offerings. It also launched a “Rush Hour” monthly concert series that offers Downtown workers the chance to delay a traffic-laden freeway experience and instead attend free after-work recitals by conservatory students. The next concert is March 28.

Kardan, the school’s president, acknowledged that attendance for Colburn’s hundreds of free performances has been lower than desired over the years, despite the fact that the student players are among the best young talent available.

That may be changing, as evidenced by the initial Rush Hour concert in January. It drew 150 people, Kardan said. 

“I think we see it changing with the growth in Downtown residents,” he said. “I think there’s a change going on. Institutionally, we’re all very excited.”

Going forward, they hope that change involves more area residents fetching their musty guitar cases and out-of-tune violins from their closets, and making them sing once again.

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Go Radio invade Camp Indian Springs to kick off Rock Band Camp - Altsounds.com

Go Radio is excited to announce upcoming plans to invade Camp Indian Springs to kick off the new Rock Band Camp music program.

"We've always loved being active with our fans," notes lead singer Jason Lancaster. "They've always been a massive part of why we do this. What better way to connect with them than to have actual one on one time."

Just before they spend an entire summer on the Vans Warped Tour, the Floridian four-piece will take over the camp on June 9th - 15th, dedicating an entire week to teaching campers their skills. Jason Lancaster (Lead Singer) will be teaching an exclusive song writing class, Alexander Reed (Guitar) and Matt Burns (Bass) will be teaching an advanced and beginner guitar class, and Steve Kopacz (Drums) will be teaching a beginner and advanced drum class. Campers will also have the opportunity to audition for the camp rock band that will be coached by Go Radio. The week culminates with a performance from Go Radio featuring the camp rock band class as the opening act.

Go Radio - Comprised of Jason Lancaster (Lead Vocals), Alex Reed (Guitar), Matt Poulos (Bass), and Steve Kopacz (drums) - Go Radio s masterpiece Close The Distance brought unflinchingly honest, breathtakingly beautiful, and dangerously addicting melodies to their fans, which debuted at #54 on the Billboard Top 200. Garnering an international fan base, the band have become seasoned road warriors having shared the stage with the likes of A Day To Remember, Yellowcard, Red Jumpsuit Apparatus, Secondhand Serenade, Mayday Parade, Silverstein, Breathe Carolina and are confirmed for an entire summer the Vans Warped Tour 2013. With press support from E! News, MTV, KTLA Morning News, Rolling Stone, I Heart Radio, Billboard, and Alternative Press, the Tallahasse, FL ensemble have won the hearts of listeners around the globe. Please visit Go Radio's Official Website to learn more about the band.

CAMP INDIAN SPRINGS | ROCK BAND CAMP

The Rock Band Camp music program is unlike any camp music program in the U.S. With an exclusive endorsement from SJC Drums, campers will have the opportunity to play a wide variety of quality instruments and learn on the same equipment as their favorite bands. Campers can choose between beginner and advanced guitar, drums, piano, and music production. The program is housed in their new state of the art music studio complete with a recording studio equipped with Pro Tools HD, baby grand piano, studio piano, 4 keyboards, 2 SJC custom drum kits, one electric drum kit, and over 20 guitars.

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Area Sports Events Calendar March 9-17 - Ct Post

BASEBALL

Bobby Valentine's Sports Academy, 72 Camp Avenue, Stamford, (203)-968-2872. Year-Round baseball/softball training for all age levels and skill levels that includes: A professional curriculum with proven results. Private Lessons (1 on 1 instruction). Buddy Lessons (small groups of 2, 3, or 4 students). Clinics (programmed or create your own). School Holiday Day Camps and Snow Day Specials. Cage Rentals (with or without a pitching machine). Birthday Parties. The Fury Travel Program.

GloveWhisperer.com (Accelerated Glove Conditioning) offers free recommendations on general issues of glove fit and overall glove condition for baseball and softball players at all levels. Their all natural conditioning process makes a new or flat glove playable in days not weeks or months. For more info, email GloveWhisperer@gmail.com or call (203)-487-8997.

IST Sports Headquarters in Norwalk. Program registration is now open. 2013 Programs include basketball baseball, softball, personal and sports specific strength training and Pre-K skills development programs for all ages. Online registration is open and all programs can be viewed at www.integratedsportstraining.com. Please email istkatz22@yahoo.com with program questions. New Sporting goods store at I.S.T. Mon-Fri 3 p.m.-9 p.m. Equipment for all ages and skill levels on sale now!

Ct Blue Thunder 12U AAU travel baseball team holding tryouts in March 2013. This team will play in 7-8 tournaments in the tri- state area along with a tournament in Cooperstown Dreams Park, New York. To register for a scheduled tryout email your contact information to CtBlueThunder@aol.com

The Blue Jays Baseball Club is sponsoring a high school exhibition series in the Cooperstown, N.Y. area in Spring of 2013 for varsity and junior varsity teams. They are also sponsoring 3-game summer tournaments for 13U, 14U, 16U and 18U clubs. Night games can be scheduled. Trophies awarded. For more info, call Harvey Sandig at 607-652-7740 with your open dates. Or email him at Cooperstown314@AOL.com

SPRING, SUMMER BASEBALL

The highly competitive Housatonic Valley Men's 18+ wood bat baseball league is looking for new players and teams for the upcoming 2013 season. We currently have 9 teams from New Milford, Sherman, Bethel, Brookfield, Danbury, Bridgewater, Wilton and Newtown. This is a great league for college players looking for a place to play this summer. Our season begins at the end of May and runs until August. If you are interested in playing contact Patrick Egan at 203-770-2991 or email him at pegan526@gmail.com

The Stamford White Sox will enter their seventh summer season in the highly-competitive Westchester Baseball Association and have earned a New England Regional bid the previous six years. If you are of college age and ability and would like to play a 35-to-40 game baseball season plus playoffs and tournaments, please email Inzi7@AOL.com or call Coach Inzitari at 203-219-0335.

Fairfield County's CT National Men's Sr. Baseball League (www.ctnationalmsbl.com) enters its 26th season in 2013, seeking capable baseball players 28+ years old for its 10-team league (NOTE: each team is allowed two 25+ year old non-pitchers). Teams are based in Stamford, New Canaan, Fairfield, Westport, Trumbull, Monroe, Bridgeport, and Milford. The Milford team will play in memory of the late Brent Smith. Our 18-game regular season schedule kicks off Sun., April 21 and runs through the end of Aug., plus playoffs in Sept. Regular season games are Sun. mornings 9am, either one 9-inning game or two 7-inning games. If interested, please email kgriff21@me.com

Babe Ruth BASEBALL

The Stamford Babe Ruth Baseball program has scheduled tryouts for 13-year-old players on Saturday March 9 at Stamford High School's Paul Kuczo Gymnasium .It is mandatory that all players bring a birth certificate and a current utility bill to the tryout session. There is a $225 cost. Players are asked to register online at baberuthbaseballofstamford.com Players with last names starting A-M should arrive at 8:45 a.m. Players with names starting N-Z should arrive at 10 a.m. Also, all players who are trying out for the U/13 travel team should arrive at 10 a.m. Tryouts for U/14 (8:30-10 a.m.), U/15 (10-11:30 a.m.) and U/16 (11:30 a.m-1 p.m.) travel teams will be held Sunday March 10 at the Stamford High gym. U/18 tryouts are Sat. March 16 at Stamford High. Tryouts for U/14 house league players will be announced at a later date

SOFTBALL UMPIRES CLINIC

The Stamford Softball Umpires Association will conduct a Clinic for potential new Umpires on Monday March 18 thru Wednesday March 20 from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 pm at the Stamford Government Center. Fee for the clinic is $35 which can be applied to ASA dues upon satisfactory completion of the clinic. For more info, please call Robert Hornbuckle at 203-613-4972 or Larry Miller at 203-324-7452.

STAMFORD SPORTS HISTORY

The Stamford Historical Society is hosting an exhibit "Forging a Community: Stamford on the Gridiron and on the Diamond 1860-1975." The event opened in September at the group's 1508 High Ridge Road facility and will run through April. Numerous photographs and memorabilia of Stamford football and baseball teams are on display in the galleries. The display is open from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Thursdays and Fridays and from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturdays. There is no charge (donations are appreciated). Call 203-329-1183 for information.

BASEBALL DONATIONS

The Polish National Youth Baseball Foundation wants your excess and used sports equipment. Baseballs, bases, bats, catcher's equipment, gloves, uniforms, etc. Donations can be dropped off at Clark's Trophies, Instant Replay in Springdale, or we will pick up. For more info, contact Al Kaproski at 203-323-9944. The Stamford Old-Timers are helping to promote Baseball in Poland and Eastern Europe.

BASKETBALL CLINICS

Former UConn point guard Craig Austrie's Basketball IQ Skills camp at the Stamford YMCA is offering a pair of one-year membership packages. For Gold Membership at $245 per month, a player receives three private/semi-private sessions per month. Additional sessions at $45 each. Free evaluation game once per month. 25 percent off summer camp registration. You can get two free sessions if you refer a friend within 30 days of signing up. Craig will also serve as a basketball mentor looking toward AAU, school or college recruiting. The platinum membership at $325 per month entitles a player to four private/semi-private sessions, additional sessions at $36 each, one free evaluation game per month, two free summer camp sessions (a $450 savings), three free sessions for a friend referred within 30 days and basketball mentor sessions. For more info, please email caustrie@gmail.com or call 203-832-2265 or visit www.craigaustrie.net

Craig Austrie's Basketball Spring Evaluation League. Players will be evaluated during every game. At the end of each day players will walk away with an individualized report on their strengths and weaknesses. They will have fun, compete, and receive constructive criticism from Craig and his staff through a written report card when their game is finished. This is a great opportunity to get better. There will be a limited amount of spots available per age group to maximize playing time. Price is $350 for 10 game league Saturday mornings at Stamford YMCA at 909 Washington Blvd starts March 16 ends May 18. Grades 5-7 play 10 a.m. - 11 a.m. Grades 8-11 play 11 a.m.- noon. Parents are welcome to stay and watch their children play! for more info, please email caustrie@gmail.com or call 203-832-2265.

Future Stars Basketball March Clinics. Hall Neighborhood House, Bridgeport. Saturday March 9, 16, 23 & 30 from 9 a.m.-11 a.m. Boys and Girls Ages 9-13. Shooting, Skill Building & Game Play! Former NBA Seattle Supersonics guard Frank Oleynick. Tuition $150. To Register call 203-367-1673. Limited Enrollment! for more info, visit www.Wearefuturestars.com

CT CHALLENGE EVENT

New York Giants linebacker Mark Herzlich is the featured speaker for the next CT Challenge Speaker's Series event, Thursday March 21 in Fairfield. Herzlich, who is a cancer survivor, will give his talk "From Cancer to the Super Bowl" at the Roger Ludlowe Middle School at 7 pm. Advance tickets are $8 for adults, $5 for students, and all tickets at the door priced at $10. To purchase tickets visit www.ctchallenge.org/herzlich. Proceeds from the event benefit CT Challenge programs for cancer survivors and the Center for Survivorship, which opened in Fairfield in October of 2012.

GREET TIM TEUFEL

New York Mets third base coach Tim Teufel is the featured speaker for the Fairfield County Sports Commission's 6th annual fundraising breakfast Tuesday April 23 at 7:30 am at the Continental Manor in Norwalk. Sirius Satellite Radio sports talk show host Chris (Mad Dog) Russo, a New Canaan resident, will be the emcee. Teufel, who is a Greenwich native and member of the Fairfield County Sports Hall of Fame, was a key player for the Mets' 1986 World Championship team. For more information and to purchase tickets priced at $60, please contact Tom Chiappetta at 203-984-4806 or via email at tomchip21@aol.com.

COACHING VACANCIES

Trinity Catholic High School has openings for Girls Soccer Head Coach and Assistant Freshman Baseball Coach. Anyone interested can contact athletic director Tracy Nichols by calling 203-322-3401 ext 17 or by email at trinitycatholic.high@snet.net

BOXING, YOGA

Certified Personal Trainer, Professional Boxing Coach and Yoga teacher Ahmad Mickens of Revolution is offering a free week of classes the week of March 18- 22 for our Grand Reopening at Revolution Training gym. On January 1, 2013, Revolution Training moved to its new gym at 579 Pacific Street, Stamford. For more information, please emailAhmad@revolutionfitness.org. Revolution Training is hosting Boxing 101 Classes on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 6 p.m.-7 p.m.as well as Power Boxing classes Monday at 7 p.m. and Wednesday 6:30 p.m.. Revolution Training also has a new program "Revolution RXT " focusing on strength, power and conditioning (check web-site for schedule). Zumba Classes are available as well Wednesday at 7:30 p.m. Men and women are welcome. You can also take part in 4 months of professional boxing workouts to participate in White Collar Fight Club Benefit Gala in June 2013. Price is $480 for gym members, $780 for non-members or $700 if pay in full upfront. Registration continues at Revolution Training Gym. Visit www.revolutionfitness.org for more information. You can also call 203-355-2666 or emailahmad@revolutionfitness.org and get details on other programs.

SYNCHRONIZED SKATING

Registration is now underway for the upcoming Southern Connecticut Synchronized Skating Tryouts. Southern Connecticut Synchronized Skating teams will hold a series of tryouts for the 2013-2014 season in March at Terry Conners Rink in Stamford for our Sprites, Shimmers and Shadows. Skaters are encouraged to preregister now until the event with a completed registration form and check payment to SCSSPO. Send to Shannon Marciano, President SCSSPO, 943 South Ave, New Canaan, CT 06840. Walk-ins welcome but all payments and forms due by the first day of Tryouts. Girls ages 6-19 are encouraged to compete for a spot on a team. Age requirements and space availability dictate the formation of each team. Visit www.terryconnerssynchro.org for more information, or send an email to info@terryconnerssynchro.org. SPRITES: Skaters working on Basic 5 or higher level skills can try out for the Sprites, a beginner team. DATES: March 11 - 5 pm-6 pm, and March 18 - 5 pm-6 pm, FEE: $50. SHIMMERS: Pre-preliminary skaters or higher can tryout for the Shimmers. DATES: March 15 -- 4 pm-5:30 pm, and March 21 -- 4 pm-5:10 pm FEE: $70. SHADOWS: Skaters age 12-and-up that are working on juvenile or higher can try out for the Shadows. DATES: March 14 -- 4 pm-5:10 pm, and March 22 -- 4 pm-5:30 pm FEE: $70.

FREE FISHING CLASS

CT DEEP and C.A.R.E. are sponsoring their annual Free Family Fishing Class at the Fourth Floor of the Stamford Government Center, 888 Washington Blvd, on Friday April 5 from 6:30 p.m.-8:30 p.m. Kids age 7 and up (accompanied by an adult) are welcome to get a free introduction to fishing. Bring your own fishing gear or use gear on hand. All kids who participate are invited to a fishing day on May 4. To reserve your spot, call Stamford Recreation Services at 203-977-5214.

SYHA GIRLS LEAGUE

The Stamford Youth Hockey Association (SYHA) Girls League welcomes ALL interested girls from the surrounding area. The Girls league is organized to provide a learning and recreational environment featuring equal ice time for all and competition among girl players of similar abilities as well as provide young girl players the opportunity to continue their hockey careers into High School Girls Hockey. Registration is open to girls birth year between 1995 -- 2006. (Note: Registration fee will depend on participation.) Registration is now open www.syha.org. If you have any questions, please contact the SYHA registrar at registrar@syha.org with any questions/problems regarding the registration process.

CT SEAHAWKS SOFTBALL

The Connecticut Seahawks 10U girls softball team has openings for a few impact players to round out the 2013 season roster. Interested parties should contact Richard Izzi at (203)-644-8716 or rich@radisupartnersllc.com Beginning in March 2013 and continuing through the summer the 10U CT Seahawks will play in 6-7 tournaments and in the Fairfield County Fastpitch Softball League (FCFSL). Offseason practice started on January 7 and continues indoors twice per week.

SUMMER BASEBALL CAMPS

Crusader Baseball School for players Ages 6-12. Located At Trinity Catholic High School, 926 Newfield Avenue, Stamford. Session 1 (5 Days)-June 24-June 28 ($190.00)-9 am-noon. Session 2 (4 Days-no Camp On July 4)-July 1,2,3,5 ($160.00)-9 am-noon. You can mix & match days. Any 5 days is $190.00. Both sessions combined is $330.00-a $20.00 Savings! Individual days are $40.00 each if you cannot attend a full week. If there is more than one child in the family then each additional child is only $100.00 per week! Each Camper Gets A Free T-shirt, Baseball Cards & Bubble Gum! Water & Gatorade Are Provided! Homerun, Pitching, Batting, Bunting & Running Contests With Prizes For Each Age Group! Directors: Tracy Nichols & Mike Walsh. For more info, call 203-322-3401 ext 17. Certified Athletic Trainer Is On Site At All Times! A $50.00 Deposit Per Session Must Accompany The Application. Any Balance is Due the 1st Day. Checks Should Be Made Payable To: Crusader Baseball School.

SUMMER BASKETBALL, VOLLEYBALL

MVP Sports Camps For Girls Basketball and Volleyball at Trinity Catholic High School on Newfield Ave. in Stamford is celebrating its 25th anniversary. Camp directors are Tom Kriz, Trinity Catholic High girls basketball/ softball head coach along with Mike Smeriglio, Stamford High Girls Volleyball Head coach. Basketball camp for girls in Grades 3-8 is set for July 9-13. Basketball camp for girls in Grades 3-8 or 9-12 will be July 16-20. Volleyball camp for girls in Grades 6-12 will be July 23-27. Volleyball camp for girls in grades 8-12 will be July 30-August 3. Early registration (before June 15) is $175 per week. After June 15, it's $195. If a camper signs up for both weeks of basketball, there is a $50 discount. Players divided by age and ability. Each camp day is 9 a.m.-noon. Early drop off is 8:15 a.m. with late pickup at 12:30 p.m. For more info or to register, call 203-847-1899 or email Smurf628@yahoo.com

SKATEPARK OPENING

The Greenwich Department of Parks and Recreation announces that the Greenwich Skatepark will open Sunday March 10, weather permitting. The park will be opened on weekends from 12:30 to 6 pm, and on weekdays from 3:30 pm to 6 pm. The Greenwich Skatepark is a fun, safe, supervised park for youths 6 years of age and up to Skateboard. The Park is located at Roger Sherman Baldwin Park next to the Arch Street Teen Center. Annual Memberships and Ten (10) day passes are available to residents at the Town Hall, Parks & Recreation Office between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m. Monday -- Friday. An annual membership cost $175.00 and entitles the cardholder to use the park whenever it is open, and receive discounts on classes and competitions. Ten-day passes cost $60.00 and may be used by the cardholder whenever the park is opened. Day Passes and our Monthly memberships may be purchased at the Skatepark. The day pass fee is $10.00 per day. Our Monthly membership cost $25.00 per month. It will entitle the member to use the park whenever it is open for the entire month and can be purchased anytime the park is opened. All skaters 17 years or younger must have a parent or guardian sign the Waiver release form before they can skate. Full pads are required. For more info call the skatepark at 203-496-0912 or visit www.greenwichct.org

BETTERIDGE GREENWICH CUP

The Betteridge Greenwich Cup 2013 series has 12 races this year and registration is now available for the second of two new events. The Greenwich Half Marathon (13.1 miles) which begins at 7 a.m. on Sunday April 7 at Greenwich Point.The third event of the series is the Cancer Care Walk/Run for Hope (5K Run/Walk, Kids Half Mile) at 9 a.m. on Sunday May 5 at Greenwich Point. For more information visit www.threadsandtreads.com or call 203-661-0142.

The other nine events are: the 49th Annual Jim Fixx Memorial Day Run (5-mile run, Kids Half Mile) at 8:15 a.m. on May 27 on Greenwich Ave., the Whole Foods Cook Your Buns (3-mile run, Kids Mile) at 6:30 p.m on June 7 at Greenwich Point, the Greenwich Point Mile Swim at 7:30 a.m. on July 20, the Betteridge Greeenwich Cup Triathlon (half-mile swim, 15-mile bike, 3-mile run) at 6:30 a.m. on July 28 at Greenwich Point, the HSS Tour de Greenwich XXIX (20 miles) at 7:30 a.m. on Sept. 15 at Greenwich High School, the Muddy Up 4 Kids II (5K Mud Run) at 9:30 a.m. on Sept. 29 at Camp Simmons, Susannah's Run (3-mile run, Kids Half Mile) at 9 a.m. on Oct. 13 at Greenwich Point, the Back Country Bushwhack (4-mile run, Kids Mile) at 9:30 a.m. on Nov. 10 at Camp Simmons, and the Jingle Bell Jog for Pathways (3-mile run) at 9 a.m. on Dec. 8 at Threads and Treads.

TRYOUTS U16 Boys

The Stamford Youth Soccer League (SYSL) will hold its U16 Boys Premier 2013 Soccer Team tryouts on Saturday, March 16 and Saturday, March 23 from 10:30 am to 12:00 noon at the gym at Dolan Middle School. The team is looking for, at least, two players. Players should be dressed in appropriate soccer attire including shin guards and indoor soccer shoes or sneakers (No cleats) and should bring with them a soccer ball and water. Eligible players for team are those boys born between August 1, 1996 and July 31, 1997. The Spring Season runs from approximately the beginning of April through mid-June. Anyone trying out for the must bring with them a completed travel registration form, which can be found in the form section at stamfordsoccer.org. Further questions, please contact Cathy at (203)-329-3327 or via email at mcschinella@yahoo.com.

KIC IT TRIATHLON

Registration for the 6th Annual Stamford KIC IT Triathlon set for Sunday June 30 has recorded the highest opening day registration in the history of the race. The 3rd annual Kids Triathlon set for Saturday June 29 is expected to follow suit when registration opens on March 15. To register, please visit www.kicittriathlon.com This year is an expanded Kids Triathlon, to be held again at Cove Beach in Stamford. Due to great demand for entry into the June 29th event, a race wave for 6 and 7 year olds has been added to the race schedule. Children will participate in three distinct waves, going off at 7:30 a.m.: ages 6 and 7 will complete a 50 meter swim, 0.8 mile bike course and half mile run; ages 7 to 10 will complete a 50 meter swim, 2.5 mile bike course and half mile run; and ages 11 to 13 will complete a 150 meter swim, 4 mile bike course and 1 mile run. Prizes will be given to top age group winners. All children will receive a custom medal when they cross the finish line. The Stamford KIC IT Triathlon starts at 6:30 a.m. on June 30 with a .9 mile swim at Cummings Beach in Long Island Sound, followed by a 24.8 mile bike ride through downtown and North Stamford, and then finish with a 6.2 mile run back through Stamford's business district. The Family Festival will take place in the finish line area. Free and open to the public, the carnival from 9 a.m. to noon on June 30 will feature live music, food, a giant bouncy obstacle house, caricatures, face painting, carnival games and more. Funds raised from the weekend's event will benefit the emergency shelter and community programs offered by Kids in Crisis.

GOLF MEETINGS

The Fairfield County Chapter of EWGA (Executive Women's Golf Association) is hosting a luncheon to kick off the 2013 golf season on Sunday March 17 at the Mill River Country Club in Stratford. The cost is $45 per person and includes sit down lunch and cash bar. Registration begins at noon. Come and enjoy an exciting afternoon of meeting and networking with fellow women golfers in your community. Learn about the various programs available to you including leagues, clinics, fun and competitive events. The luncheon will feature a fashion show and guest speaker PGA Professional Brian Crowell. Brian is the Head Golf Pro at Glen Arbor GC in Bedford Hills, and is also a radio host, television host and commentator and the author of "Slice Free Golf." For more information contact Heather Studwell at misspavlov@gmail.com For information about the Fairfield County Chapter, visit www.ewgafairfield.com

April Vacation Camp

For Boys and Girls ages 4-12. April Vacation camp (April 15-19) at Turn of River Middle School in Stamford. Section A (9 a.m.-noon each day) Cost $149. Section B (12:30 p.m.-4 p.m.) Cost $149. Section C Full day (9 a.m.-4 p.m.) Cost $249. Section D 3 Half Days (9 a.m.-12:30 p.m.) Cost $90. Section E 3 full days (9 a.m.-4 p.m.) Cost $149. To register, visit www.peakperformancesports.net. This camp offers a combination of traditional sports games, physical education activities, and cooperative games. We ask that our full day campers bring a (peanut butter free) snack and lunch and water bottle, and our half day campers bring a peanut butter free snack and water bottle. Similar camp at Long Lots School in Westport.

NORWALK Junior Cheerleading

Norwalk Junior Cheerleading is a non-profit 501(c)3 organization that mentors and teaches aspiring cheerleaders in Grades 1-8 on the fundamentals of cheerleading. American Youth Cheerleading has participants ages 5-13 cheer for designated football teams as well as take part in regional events. Norwalk is one of 11 towns in the Colonial Football and Cheer League. For more info, please visit www.norwalkctyouthfootball.com

COACHING VACANCIES

Ridgefield High School Athletics is now accepting applications for the following coaching vacancies: Boys Lacrosse -- Freshman Coach, Spring 2013, Girls Softball -- Head Coach; immediate opening Spring 2013. Girls Soccer, Head Coach, beginning Fall 2013. Cheerleading -- Head Coach; beginning Fall 2013. Successful candidates will:Hold a valid Connecticut Teaching Certificate, Coaching Permit or be eligible for a Temporary Emergency Coaching Permit. Have successfully completed standard first aid, CPR and concussion management training. Have substantial knowledge of the sport for which the application is made. Have knowledge of legal and safety aspects of coaching, medical aspects of coaching adolescents, principles and practices of coaching adolescents and adolescent sports psychology. Show evidence of kindness, intelligence and the ability to work effectively with student athletes and with adults. Possess a steady composure, a sense of humor and grace under pressure. To apply, contact Carl Charles, Athletics Director, Ridgefield High School, 700 N. Salem Road, Ridgefield, CT 06877. Or call 203-438-3785 ext 1010.

WRESTLING FAME DINNER

The Connecticut chapter of the National Wrestling Hall of Fame will hold an induction dinner on Saturday, April 20, 2013 from 6 p.m.-10 p.m. at MGM Grand Hotel at Foxwoods Resort Casino to honor these men for their contribution to the sport of wrestling and our communities. The six men to be honored are: John Chacho, the former coach at Staples High in Westport and former official. Frank Chaves, the former coach at Simsbury High and a current official. Ken DeStefanis, the former coach at Central Connecticut State University and current youth wrestling club coach. Staff Sergeant Joseph Kapacziewski, a former wrestler at Bristol Eastern High, who is currently an Army Ranger. He has been on multiple deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan. Bernard Nasser, a long-time official and former coach at Fitch High in Groton. Ricky Shook, the coach at Danbury High School. Chacho, Chaves, DeStefanis, Nasser and Shook will receive a Lifetime Achievement award for coaches, officials, media or contributors with at least 20 years of service. Kapacziewski is being honored with a Medal of Courage, an award for a wrestler or former wrestler who has overcome insurmountable challenges. Each award recipient will be permanently recognized in the National Wrestling Hall of Fame (Stillwater, Oklahoma) with an embossed name plaque, and each receives a plaque and jacket to commemorate the very special occasion. These six will join 29 other inductees from Connecticut in the National Wrestling Hall of Fame. Tickets for the banquet are on sale now for $85 each ($25 kids age 12 and under) and are available online through cwhof.ticketleap.com For more info, please visit www.ctwrestling7.homestead.com/halloffame.html

YOUTH WRESTLING

Stamford Jr. Wrestling Club is in its 22nd year. Registration for the Stamford Jr. Wrestling Club Winter session is underway. The SJWC offers instruction and competitive opportunities for beginners and experienced wrestlers ages 6-14. Wrestlers will have the opportunity to learn skills, practice technique and gain match experience in a disciplined and fun environment. The program is open to children from all towns. For registration information visit www.stamfordwrestling.com or call 203-322-5366.

GIANTS FOOTBALL CAMPS

New York Giants Youth Football Camps 2013 Youth Summer Camp Schedule. Non-Contact Football Camps for Kids Ages 6 to 14 years old. All locations feature a Comprehensive Skills Section, an Accelerated Skills Section and Position-Specific, Private Instruction Section. Cost is $419. Save $40 early register discount. Greenwich (Whitby School, 969 Lake Ave. Mon June 17-Fri. June 21). New Canaan (St. Luke's School, 377 North Wilton Rd., Mon. June 24-Fri. June 28 and Mon. July 22-Fri. July 26). Stamford (Stamford High School, 55 Strawberry Hill Ave., Mon. July 15-Fri. July 19). For more info or to register, visit www.NYGiantscamps.com

CHELSEA PIERS CAMPS

Chelsea Piers Connecticut (CPCT, located at 1 Blachley Place in Stamford, is pleased to announce that a vast array of sports classes, leagues and programs will be offered at the 400,000 sq-ft sports complex in the winter of 2013. Led by an extensive team of accomplished coaches, teachers and directors, the fall programs at CPCT will cater to youth and adult athletes of all levels and abilities. Winter programming will be comprised of four core categories: Little Athletes (6 months to 5 years). Developmental (5 years to 13 years). Elite/Competitive Teams (6 years and older). Adult Programs (Leagues and instructional classes).The Little Athletes programs are taught by experienced, professional coaches who also teach the highest level athletes. Sports offered include basketball, gymnastics, ice hockey, ice skating, lacrosse, rock climbing, soccer, squash, swimming, tee ball and tennis. The youth sports development program offers a comprehensive, diverse and innovative curriculum for athletes of all ages. Developmental programs will feature after-school and weekend programs for kids ages 5 to 17 in a wide range of sports including baseball/softball, basketball, field hockey, figure skating, flag football, gymnastics, ice hockey, lacrosse, multi-sport, rock climbing, soccer, squash, swimming and tennis. Field hockey available at a later date. Elite training is offered for dedicated junior high and high school, prep school, and college athletes that are looking for a complete off-season training program to take their game to the next level. Elite training and competitive teams will be available for gymnastics, lacrosse, squash, swimming and tennis. Basketball and volleyball travel teams will also be offered. The Leagues at CPCT will provide competitive kids off all ages a broad selection of youth leagues throughout the school year, including basketball, gymnastics, lacrosse, squash, swimming, tennis and volleyball. The adult amateur sports program have league games played at CPCT with referees and full-time program directors .Competitive Adult Leagues for men, women and co-eds (individual or teams) will be offered in basketball, ice hockey, lacrosse volleyball and indoor soccer. Over-30, Corporate and Open leagues will also be available as well as a Masters swim team, competitive triathlon team, and tennis and squash leagues. For more info, visit www.chelseapiersct.com

CHELSEA PIERS TRIATHLON

Chelsea Piers Connecticut in Stamford announces that 4X USA Triathlon Team National Champions, Full Throttle Endurance Racing, will offer a triathlon training program. The triathlon program will include high-intensity triathlon training led by USAT Level II coach Scott Berlinger and USAT Level I coach Rick Krupa. Training is geared towards all aspects of triathlon racing for all levels, from beginners to seasoned veterans. For more info, visit www.chelseapiersct.com

KAYAK LESSONS

Since 1983, the Small Boat Shop at 144 Water Street in South Norwalk has been the premier source for anyone interested in sea kayaking, rowing, canoeing, and generally exploring the coast in small craft. Contact the Small Boat Shop of Norwalk, CT at 203-854-5223 or visit www.thesmallboatshop.com.

TENNIS FALL PROGRAMS

Shippan Racquet Club, an indoor tennis club in Stamford, currently has registration open for programs for both adults and children this winter season. Junior programs include our Junior Development Academy for all ages and levels, along with our Tournament Training and High School programs. For adults, we offer our Adult Integrated Method which are small group lessons, leagues, privates and seasonal court time. For more information on our programs, please call 203-323-3129 or visit us at www.shippanracquet.com.

Kings Highway, an indoor tennis club in Darien, has registration open for programs for both adults and children this winter season. Junior programs include our Junior Tennis Pathway Progression for all ages and levels, our High Performance/Varsity Training programs as well. For adults, we offer small group lessons, leagues, privates and seasonal court time. For more information on our programs, please call 203-655-8769 or visit us at www.kingshwytennis.com

TENNISIMPLE PROGRAMS

TenniSimple being offered at Shippan Racquet Club and Kings Highway. TenniSimple is designed for both total beginners and former players that are getting back into the sport after an extended absence. The fun, fast-paced lessons will have you learning the game and competing within a matter of weeks. The $150 fee includes six, one-hour group lessons with a licensed pro and a new racquet.The TenniSimple program is also located at Fairfield Indoor Tennis, Trumbull Racquet Club and Milford Indoor Tennis. For more info, Fairfield Indoor Tennis, 15 Old Dam Road, Fairfield, CT--(203) 254-0440. Kings Highway Tennis Club, 98 Old Kings Highway North, Darien, CT--(203) 655-8769. Milford Indoor Tennis, 580 Bridgeport Avenue, Milford, CT--(203) 876-1776. Shippan Racquet Club, 45 Harbor Drive, Stamford, CT--(203) 323-3129. Trumbull Racquet Club, 35 Lindeman Drive, Trumbull, CT--(203) 374-8622.

HELPING VETERANS

Operation Music Aid is a 501(c) (3) non-profit organization based in Madison that secures musical instruments for our wounded servicemen and women. There is an auction consisting a Geno Auriemma signed guitar, two Geno Auriemma signed basketballs, a Jim Calhoun autographed guitar, two autographed Jim Calhoun basketballs and a signed football from the 2010 New York Giants. Bidding for these items continues. To make a bid, make the bid and your e-mail contact info to Operation Music Aid, Unit 1, 1 Orchard Park, Madison, Ct. 06443. For general organization info, visit www.operationmusicaid.org

• To be included in the upcoming events, please email information to sports@SCNI.com Items should include a telephone number for verification.

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Skywriting: Never too late to go back to school - Times Herald-Record

Last updated: 9:35 AM - 03/06/13 Like most things, I had a better appreciation for college and education AFTER it was completed and not a part of my daily life. I did like going to school but I also felt I wanted to learn only things that interested me as I was paying for the education, not wanting to endure courses that were part of a “core” curriculum. I endured and somehow passed an Earth science class while I was in college for my broadcasting degree. What the study of the Earth's crust had to do with the music business I still don't know to this day, but I made it through with a passing grade.

As I grew older and became more settled into my adult life, and was able to better handle and manage my time, education became more appealing to me. In the interest of full disclosure, I teach a course at SUNY Orange, so I witness a mixture of students that come my way. The thing I enjoy most about teaching is guiding these fresh-out-of-high-school students into the world of adulthood, responsibility and how to benefit most from a college education. I do once in a while have an adult student enrolled in my class and encounter a different kind of student. As I said, when you are a bit older you tend to have more of an appreciation for learning and are better able to navigate your life in conjunction with a college class.

Some of the greatest resources available from local colleges are Continuing Education classes. These classes, non-credit ones, are offered in a variety of disciplines; they are often smaller in class size and lead to less pressure as there is not a grade involved. There are many fun classes to take for things that you have “always wanted to try,” like guitar playing. Currently at SUNY Orange the beginner's guitar class is only $59 and covers basic chords, tuning, strumming methods, reading music and simple songs. The course lasts for eight sessions and starts later this month. Information on this and other courses can be found at sunyorange.edu/ce/

Every Wednesday at 845Scene, join Skywalker from K104 (104.7 FM in Fishkill) as he discusses pop culture in "Skywriting."

E-mail Timothy Malcolm at tmalcolm@th-record.com with comments.

Check out more Skywalker - who is on air from 2-7 p.m. Monday-Friday, by visiting K104's website, k104online.com.

And get in touch with Sky @skyskymedia.

The other thing that is great about continuing education classes is to use them as job-training resources. A lot of parents who had stayed home to care for their children but want to re-enter the job world are not equipped with skills that are being requested for certain positions. Also seniors can take advantage of continuing education as people are working well into and during their retirement to make ends meet. Committing to a full-fledged college degree doesn't make sense for every situation, but knowledge in specific areas can be enough to land them that job they need. At Dutchess Community College some of the available continuing education courses include: Introduction to Quicken, Java web building, digital photography, debt reduction and even dog obedience. These are offered at a fraction of the cost of a typical credit-bearing course and some are even offered online.

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Postcard from Laura: March important in Mexico's history - Rockford Register Star

Chicago did not get the predicted heavy snowfall, but it was grey. In fact, everything was grey; everything but my mood.

Many years ago I learned that, “there is no such thing as bad weather, just a bad attitude and bad gear.” So, with the proper snow boots and a warm coat, we went out for a walk when most would have stayed in.

Art gallery owners were surprised to see us walk through their doors on what everyone, but Arthur and I, thought to be a bad day to be out and about. For us, one gallery’s display of brightly colored paintings served to quickly transport us to warm and sunny Mexico.

With all of the beautiful art, history and culture, not to mention the culinary delights of Mexico, it is not hard to understand why five Illinois cities have a Sister City in Mexico. Chicago is connected to Mexico City, which was founded by the Aztecs 688 years ago on March 13, 1325, and known as Tenochtitlan. Chicago Heights’ sister is Cedral. Hanover Park’s sister is in Valparaiso; Highland Park is one to Puerto Vallarta; and Naperville’s is in Patzcuaro.

More than 20 years ago, I was in Puerto Vallarta on an all-inclusive vacation that had me wearing an armband to identify the type of services I was to receive. Tourism has come a long way since then, especially because of the Sister City relations that the U.S. has in Mexico.

As Arthur and I continued to thaw out in this Chicago art gallery, which also featured traditional Spanish guitar music, we chatted about how Mexico was once called New Spain. It was ruled in the 16th century from Mexico City after the Spanish conquest of the Aztec Empire.

New Spain included all of present-day Mexico and U.S. territories west of the Mississippi, plus Florida. Five hundred years ago this past week, on March 3, 1513, conquistador Juan Ponce de León began his expedition that would lead to what he called the “flowery land” or the popular winter getaway state of Florida.

We also noted that in many ways Americans are very much influenced by Spanish or Mexican cuisine, especially when we realize that the mandatory turkey at the all-American Thanksgiving dinner was originally from Mexico. In the early 1500s, wild turkeys were brought from Mexico to Europe. After domesticating them in Europe, the English colonists then brought turkeys back with them to the New World, but they arrived farther east on the Atlantic seaboard in Massachusetts, about 2,500 miles from Mexico, where the turkey had begun its travels.

Chicago did not get the predicted heavy snowfall, but it was grey. In fact, everything was grey; everything but my mood.

Many years ago I learned that, “there is no such thing as bad weather, just a bad attitude and bad gear.” So, with the proper snow boots and a warm coat, we went out for a walk when most would have stayed in.

Art gallery owners were surprised to see us walk through their doors on what everyone, but Arthur and I, thought to be a bad day to be out and about. For us, one gallery’s display of brightly colored paintings served to quickly transport us to warm and sunny Mexico.

With all of the beautiful art, history and culture, not to mention the culinary delights of Mexico, it is not hard to understand why five Illinois cities have a Sister City in Mexico. Chicago is connected to Mexico City, which was founded by the Aztecs 688 years ago on March 13, 1325, and known as Tenochtitlan. Chicago Heights’ sister is Cedral. Hanover Park’s sister is in Valparaiso; Highland Park is one to Puerto Vallarta; and Naperville’s is in Patzcuaro.

More than 20 years ago, I was in Puerto Vallarta on an all-inclusive vacation that had me wearing an armband to identify the type of services I was to receive. Tourism has come a long way since then, especially because of the Sister City relations that the U.S. has in Mexico.

As Arthur and I continued to thaw out in this Chicago art gallery, which also featured traditional Spanish guitar music, we chatted about how Mexico was once called New Spain. It was ruled in the 16th century from Mexico City after the Spanish conquest of the Aztec Empire.

New Spain included all of present-day Mexico and U.S. territories west of the Mississippi, plus Florida. Five hundred years ago this past week, on March 3, 1513, conquistador Juan Ponce de León began his expedition that would lead to what he called the “flowery land” or the popular winter getaway state of Florida.

We also noted that in many ways Americans are very much influenced by Spanish or Mexican cuisine, especially when we realize that the mandatory turkey at the all-American Thanksgiving dinner was originally from Mexico. In the early 1500s, wild turkeys were brought from Mexico to Europe. After domesticating them in Europe, the English colonists then brought turkeys back with them to the New World, but they arrived farther east on the Atlantic seaboard in Massachusetts, about 2,500 miles from Mexico, where the turkey had begun its travels.

In 1784, Benjamin Franklin wrote of his preference for the wild turkey as the nation’s national bird, not the bald eagle. Ironically, according to American laws, bald eagle feathers cannot be exported, so the stereotypical Indian headdresses made for foreign consumers often contained turkey feathers.

Painters in the 19th century of Western scenes often mistakenly placed feather headdresses on Indians no matter what tribe. East coast tribes did not wear this type of head gear, but rather those of the plains. In addition, many painters confused their historical periods and placed a conquistador of the 16th century with pilgrims of the 17th century at the traditional first Thanksgiving feast.

There are no cultural mistakes in the art which has been exchanged between Highland Park and Puerto Vallarta. In 2010, a wonderful mural was painted by Chicago artist Oscar Romero and given by the Highland Park Sister Cities Foundation to Puerto Vallarta city officials.

It is titled “Cultures Connected Through Music” and is on permanent display at the Ordaz International Airport. The world-renown pianist Jorge Federico Osorio, who was born in Mexico and is now a resident of Highland Park, and the Chicago Symphony Orchestra stand on one side of the mural.

The Mexican Mariachis are on the other side. The theme is the United States and Mexico are connected by the universal language of music.

As Arthur and I ventured out once more into the grey Chicago day, leaving this delightful art gallery, we felt as if we had gone to Puerto Vallarta. I could hear the music playing in my head as we sloshed our way home to the beat of Mexico, and I felt warm inside. Art, music and sisters have a way of making you feel that way no matter what the weather is outside.

Laura C. Johnson is a freelance art historian who lives and works in Chicago and Florence, Italy. She is writing about the 40 Illinois Sister Cities in 33 countries around the world, one Postcard at a time. View the original article here

Afterschool program offers certain some students music lessons free of charge - The Carroll News

For the past 10 years, acclaimed Carroll County musician Josh Pickett has helped aspiring musical artists fine tune their dreams with private lessons at his Cana studio. Through a new 21st Century Grant, certain Carroll County Intermediate School students will now have the opportunity to learn music from Pickett free of charge.

“It’s basically a grant that will give students the opportunity to learn music that might not otherwise have that option through private lessons. I have been trying to get into the schools for a long time,” Pickett said. “We live in such a musically-rich area, and I want some of these kids to have the same chance I had growing up and playing music. It kept me out of a whole lot of other stuff I could have been into. I think it will be a good thing for students to take advantage of.”

The world of music has certainly taken Pickett places must people only dream about. As the guitar player for up-and-coming country band The Church Sisters, Pickett played for President Barack Obama during a campaign stop in Roanoke last summer. As a member of the No Speed Limit Band, Pickett also played for the Queen of England in Richmond in 2008 and at the inauguration for then-Virginia Governor Tim Kaine in 2006.

On his 16th birthday, Pickett became the youngest person to ever win the International Guitar Championship at Merlefest, an honor he still claims. Aside from his current gig with The Church Sisters, Pickett also plays with Larry Cordle, a well-known songwriter from Nashville who has written nearly 20 #1 country hits.

Pickett has always enjoyed teaching as he currently gives private lessons to 40 students in his Cana recording studio, Creekside Studio. There he teaches mandolin, guitar and bass to more advanced students. But he’s always wanted to work with younger students who might not have the means to take lessons. Knowing he would be back home more in 2013 than usual, he began to pursue the idea.

“I love working with kids and seeing them love music, and I love seeing that same fire in them learning that I had when I was that age,” Pickett said. “When you see that it makes you feel really good. You know what they are feeling and you know the drive they have.”

So Pickett called Carroll County Assistant Superintendent of Schools Mark Burnette and told him of his idea to work with kids, especially in a situation where money would not be an issue. Burnette told Pickett about the 21st Century Grant and the two immediately began “brainstorming” ideas.

“And we came up with this idea on offering the afterschool class to students. Sometimes as your buddies play music, I think it not only draws the ones that already play and have interest, I think it will get other kids interested,” Pickett said. “I’ve taught for about 10 years and one of the things I have seen happen in kids is they will come in and they might be struggling in school, or they might be having problems at home, and music is their outlet. Some of those kids I see come in are some of the best I’ve had because music is their getaway. Sometimes it can be the first real thing they have a passion for. I think it will be a really great opportunity for any child in intermediate school that has thought about music, or maybe hasn’t, to think about it and get in on some free lessons.”

Pickett said signups will be held in the office at Carroll County Intermediate in the next couple of weeks. The class will be an afterschool program, and interested students must already be signed up in the Cavalier Afterschool Summer Enrichment (CASE) Program. Initially, classes will last an hour on Thursdays. Each class will have 10 students. When the first class fills up, another class of 10 will be offered, and so on, Pickett said. The program is strictly for CASE program students at CCIS, so it will be offered to eighth and ninth graders this year, and sixth, seventh and eighth graders next year when the grading structure changes in Carroll schools.

“It will be called music ed, and it will be basically any style of music, even covering several instruments they might want to play. It will be for those that might want to play or that already play,” Pickett said. “We’re hoping the class will pull together some of the musical students and some of the ones that would like to be. Maybe we’ll see some local bands form out of it and see some local kids taking off with their music.”

The class won’t solely be about learning an instrument. Pickett plans to bring in professionals from the music business from time to time to show students the different aspects of music, from how music is recorded, made, managed, etc.

“There are so many different paths you can go down in music such as music production and management. The management of bands is booming right now. You can use regular college courses like management and business in music itself,” Pickett said. “Maybe you want to open your own recording studio. There are a lot of avenues you can go if you enjoy music. I’m just trying to open some doors and let kids realize you don’t have to be the greatest guitar player in the world to make a living. The music business needs more than players.”

As for the music itself, Pickett wants his students to be appreciative of all kinds of music. While bluegrass is his favorite, he also likes pop and rock music. You shouldn’t have to choose one style of music over another, he said.

“It is about being appreciative of everything. What a lot of younger kids don’t realize about music, if it were not for some of the earlier acoustic music, there wouldn’t be pop and rock,” Pickett said. “I want to lay the road where they can see how this evolved into that and helped form the styles they know of now.”

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Concert review: Miranda Lambert and Dierks Bentley bring a double-barrel blast ... - NewsOK.com (blog)

Tishomingo resident Miranda Lambert performs at the Chesapeake Energy Arena in Oklahoma City, Friday, March 8, 2013. Photo by Garett Fisbeck, For The Oklahoman

To see more photos from Miranda Lambert’s set, click here. To see more photos from Dierks Bentley’s set, click here. To read my preview interview with Dierks Bentley, click here. To read my preview interview with Lee Brice, click here.

Country music fans got a double-barrel blast of boundless energy and nonstop hits Friday night as Tishomingo resident Miranda Lambert and her longtime pal Dierks Bentley aimed their “Locked & Reloaded Tour” at Chesapeake Energy Arena.

With their dynamic set lists and easy charisma, the superstar co-headliners set their sights on thrilling the near-sellout audience, and judging from the way they kept the rowdy crowd stomping, cheering and dancing through both blazing sets, the show hit a bull’s-eye.

Lee Brice tripped the trigger on the nearly 3 ½-hour hit parade with his raucous “Parking Lot Party.” But the singer-songwriter, who was casually clad in worn jeans, an untucked button-down shirt and a backwards ball cap, got fans wailing along early with his smash ballads “A Woman Like You,” “Hard to Love” and “Love Like Crazy.” Whether he was playfully popping the top on a cold one for “Beer” or sincerely dedicating “I Drive Your Truck” to our military servicemen and women and their families, the South Carolina native boasted a winning smile and plenty of southern charm.

Dierks Bentley performs at the Chesapeake Energy Arena in Oklahoma City, Friday, March 8, 2013. Photo by Garett Fisbeck, For The Oklahoman

When it comes to effortless charm and sheer energy, though, it’s hard to imagine many country stars topping Bentley, who soon made use of every inch of his big two-tier stage. The Arizona native immediately incited the boisterous crowd with a trio of amped-up hits: “Am I the Only One,” “Free and Easy (Down the Road I Go)” and “5-1-5-0.”

“That’s what it’s all about tonight,” said Bentley, who took the stage in torn jeans, a black cap that he mostly wore backward, an olive green T-shirt he soon sweated through and a well-worn acoustic guitar.

“This is my fourth time playing in this building, and I can guarantee y’all this’ll be the best time we’ve played here. We’re gonna make the best memories here,” he added, closing his eyes as he crooned the ballad “Every Mile a Memory.”

As he cranked the energy back up with “Lot of Leavin’ Left to Do,” which he said he wrote years ago on a bus in Oklahoma City, the singer-songwriter made sure the night was particularly memorable for one teenage fan.

Bentley pulled Ashlan Mays of Lindsay out of the pit and onto the stage, strapped his electric guitar on her and gave her a quick music lesson. While the superstar dashed around the stage slapping high-fives and tossing picks into the crowd, his band supportively surrounded the teen, who kept strumming with a bemused smile. At the end of the song, Bentley mischievously pointed to Mays, doffed his cap, took a bow and sprinted off the stage. Fortunately, he didn’t leave the rest of the show to the young fan, although he later gave her a signed guitar as a keepsake.

When he returned to belt “Feel That Fire,” he incorporated the fan-favorite moment into the lyrics: “that girl wanted to play my guitar in the Oklahoma City show.” It was one of many Oklahoma name-drops Bentley worked into his set, and while they predictably evoked enthusiastic screams from the multitude, the performer seemed to have a genuine affection for the Sooner State.

Before going acoustic with “Settle for a Slowdown,” Bentley noted that Ronnie Canada, father of his pal Cody Canada of the bands Cross Canadian Ragweed and The Departed, was in the audience.

“Cody is the reason I wear this hat. He gave me this hat a couple of years ago. I think of him every night. We don’t get to hang out as much as we used to, but he’s one of my best friends,” Bentley said.

“Ronnie reminded me that the last time we played OKC, my mom and dad were here … now my dad is no longer with us. So thanks for being here on this special night and being part of the tour.”

Bentley, who is working on his seventh studio album, even offered up new music with the earnest ballad “I Hold On.”

“If I had to describe myself to a complete stranger … it would be this song,” he said.

The sexy come-on “Come a Little Closer” got the ladies singing and swaying, the high-octane “Sideways” put everyone in a party state of mind, but it was Bentley’s bluegrass number “Up on the Ridge” that brought the set’s biggest mood shift. With the lights smoky and shadowed, he and his band mates gathered on the top tier of the stage and absolutely threw it down against massive video projection of a moonlit forest.

Still, Bentley saved the best for last, closing with his patriotic hit “Home.” Standing amid spotlights resembling moonbeams, he encouraged the fans to light and raise their cell phones, beautifully filling the arena with simulated starlight as his devotees crooned along with the uplifting anthem.

“There’s something special about Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. Thanks for always make us feel at home,” he said.

Playing her adopted home state, Lambert was not about to be outdone by her tour mate.

Miranda Lambert, who lives in Tishomingo, performs at the Chesapeake Energy Arena in Oklahoma City, Friday, March 8, 2013. Photo by Garett Fisbeck, For The Oklahoman

Accompanied by Beyonce’s “Run the World (Girls),” her video introduction paid homage to strong women from the Queen Bey herself and Reba McEntire to Annie Oakley and Patsy Cline and set the stage for the riotous opening salvo of “Fastest Girl in Town,” “Only Prettier” and “That’s the Way the World Goes ‘Round.”

Strutting around the stage in a sparkly silver skirt, leathery black lace-up top and knee-high black boots, tossing her recently shortened and straightened blond locks and showing off her signature stomping-and-spinning dance moves, the Texas native was the epitome of womanly confidence. But she soon proved she wasn’t afraid to show her vulnerable side.

“All my in-laws are in the house tonight, so forgive me if I start crying,” the Tishomingo resident said as her band began playing her heartbreaking hit “Over You.”

She didn’t even make it into the first verse of the ode she wrote with her husband, Blake Shelton, about the death of his brother before she was overcome with emotion. Fortunately, her faithful fans knew every word and were more than willing to belt them out, so she simply held out the microphone and let them sing as she wiped away tears. Her devotees shouted out encouragement as she took a deep breath and took over on the second stanza.

“Thanks for the help, y’all. Hells bells, I’m already crying. … Crying equals drinking and drinking makes sure we’re gonna have a good time tonight,” she quipped, sipping from a black insulated cup and then launching into her heartfelt chart-topper “Heart Like Mine.”

Alternately wielding an electric guitar, an acoustic guitar and a microphone — all in pretty shades of pink — the singer-songwriter boldly mixed her new hits like “Mama’s Broken Heart” and “Baggage Claim” with her older favorites like “Kerosene” and “New Strings” and stirred in a couple of fun covers for good measure. After giving a cowbell a few good introductory whacks with a drumstick, she growled through a sexed-up rendition of Mountain’s rock classic “Mississippi Queen,” and she later showcased her band as she drawled the Beatles’ galloping number “Get Back.”

“I brought some of the girls from my store in Tishomingo, Oklahoma, with me tonight,” she said, referring to her clothing and gift shop The Pink Pistol. “Somehow, we’ve managed to make that little town famous.”

She dedicated “Famous in a Small Town,” which clearly resonated with many of her Sooner State devotees, to her adopted hometown. Video footage of the Oklahoma flag, homegrown superstars like Vince Gill and Johnny Bench, the Oklahoma City Thunder logo and signs from various local bars drew appreciative yells, but the University of Oklahoma logo provoked a mix of cheers and boos.

“Let me tell you something: I’m from Texas, so y’all just calm down,” she admonished the “house divided.”

After her band played a bit of the cowboy standard “Red River Valley” as a lead-in, the fans were united in their adoration of Lambert’s Grammy-winning ode “The House That Built Me,” which she crooned fervently.

“I know you have a million ways to spend your hard-earned money, and we appreciate you spending it on country music tonight. I’m just an everyday average country girl doing what I do best and that’s sing to people. But I’ve got my insecurities and I’ve had my share of people tell me I’m not good enough or pretty enough or skinny enough. … I want everybody here to believe in yourselves,” she said, encouraging the throng to really listen to her story-song “All Kind of Kinds,” with its theme about accepting people’s differences.”

She shared more life lessons — “My daddy taught me two things: How to use a shotgun gun and that it’s never OK for a man to hit a woman” — before scorching through her fiery closer “Gunpowder & Lead.

But she and her band didn’t keep the screaming crowd waiting long for an encore, keeping it sassy with her first career No. 1 hit, “White Liar.”

“I love my daddy and my brother and I’m happily married,” she said, although Shelton unfortunately didn’t put in an appearance. “But it’s our job to keep you guys in line,” she added, evoking shouts of agreement from the ladies in the audience as she launched into her impressively soulful “best white-girl version” of Aretha Franklin’s “Do Right Woman, Do Right Man.

And she closed the concert by inviting the two men who opened it for her — Brice and Bentley — and various members of their bands — one of whom surreally donned the mask of a Cox Communications “Digeez” mascot — for the spirited bluegrass sing-along “Bad Angel,” an entertaining romp Lambert and Jamey Johnson recorded with Bentley for his 2010 album “Up on the Ridge.”

Lambert and Bentley will bring their highly recommended “Locked & Reloaded Tour” back to Oklahoma for an April 13 show at Tulsa’s BOK Center. Canadian country singer Corb Lund will take over the opener slot for Brice, who is getting married next month.

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East Hill Guitar Instruction to Host Community Music Festival - PR Web (press release)

Pensacola, FL (PRWEB) March 08, 2013

East Hill Guitar Instruction, located in Pensacola FL, aims to bring the community together and showcase the talents and hard work of its many students. The East Hill Music Festival will feature 3-4 bands, comprised of students ages 9-17, that will be performing music from a variety of styles and artists including B.B King, Rush, Bob Marley and more. Original pieces written by students and music teachers will also be performed.

This event will take place on Saturday, March 23rd at Bayview Park, from 2pm-6pm. If you are a parent or community member interested in volunteering, or a student needing community hours, please visit http://easthillguitar.com/music-festival for further information.

Open to the community, the Festival will benefit the Gulf Coast Kid’s House, a non-profit organization dedicated to helping the families and children of Escambia County live free from abuse and neglect. You can learn more about the Gulf Coast Kid’s House here.

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Six String Heroes: Using music to help veterans heal - Quincy Herald Whig

By MAGGIE MENDERSKI
Herald-Whig Staff Writer

Steve Stoner has spent two years recruiting veterans for a unique kind of military band.

Stoner, a Quincy native, has helped teach more than 100 veterans with disabilities to play the guitar. Six String Heroes, a St. Louis based nonprofit, uses the guitar to help those with post traumatic stress disorder and other disabilities cope with their difficulties. Once trained, the veterans jam together once a week.

"The strumming of the guitar or the vibration of the guitars helps them relax in a way that medicine never had," Stoner said.

Stoner piloted the program at the Jefferson Barracks VA Hospital and has expanded it to his hometown with the help of Second String Music and Vancil Performing Arts. Those businesses hope to aid more local veterans and raise additional funds for the program by sponsoring an evening of music and dancing at 6:30 p.m. Saturday at Turner Hall. The Cheeseburgers and ClockWork will perform.

"All the money that gets raised goes directly to buying guitars and accessories for the veterans," Stoner said.

The organization provides eight free guitar lessons as well as the materials needed to learn. Wayne Bridges of Palmyra, Mo., is one of seven veterans who have taken advantage of Six String Heroes' Quincy-based affiliates. Bridges picked up his first guitar nearly two decades after his discharge in 1990.

The U.S. Army veteran needed a change in his life, and Six String Heroes offered him an opportunity to learn the guitar and consequently better manage his disability.

"I needed something," Bridges said. "I did a lot of just sitting in the house. It's done wonders."

When veterans complete the eight lessons, the organization gives the vet a new guitar and all the accessories needed to foster the new talent. As Bridges' passion grew, so did his guitar collection. Five instruments later, he figured another veteran could use the gifted instrument more than he could. He donated it back to Six String Heroes so another veteran taking lessons could practice.

"It's such a good program," Bridges said. "I want the guitar to help get other people involved."

Frank Haxel and his wife, Cindy Vancil of Vancil Performing Arts, said they became involved because they had several family members who had served in the military. They wanted their business to support those who had given so much to their country.

"These guys need help. They come back with post traumatic stress disorder," Haxel said. "We tried to help them through the healing power of music."

After Bridges finished his free lessons, he continued honing his musical skills. Now the music has brought him two equally gratifying social outlets. He sits in with the band Pepper Spray every other week, and he also plays the guitar at home with his 7-year-old daughter Riley.

"We're about at the same playing level," he said. "I'm teaching her ‘Breakdown' by Tom Petty. She loves that one."

During the free lessons, Stoner or one of the organization's instructors teaches the veteran three chords. Once they've mastered those three chords, the musician can play roughly 20 songs.

Like Bridges, the St. Louis veterans benefit from the social aspect, too. They meet for a Six String Heroes jam session once a week. They bring new songs to learn, and they continue expanding their skills together. Eventually, some of them learn enough skills that they can teach others entering the program.

Haxel hopes eventually Quincy can generate enough guitar-playing veterans to warrant weekly jam sessions. While the guitar soothes nerves, Stoner said present-day war to World War II veterans can benefit from the social aspect of the program.

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