tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36379218490930241642024-02-19T00:43:51.469-08:00What more can I say?Diva Mhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10169161743627996365noreply@blogger.comBlogger48125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3637921849093024164.post-59035606312009188032014-02-11T05:52:00.001-08:002014-02-11T05:52:48.935-08:00 Article From Focus Magazine <table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEju8FhZES_AeZSfue4cDf05j6hW8SgYAIj3xTOs78URFL7wWfL_xKDxU52gd6Z4bTrroY2E0lJeBfqwbWZPKcLFOnmftNR9gucJET7LhRQ4RB7V5sOvS8PFOUcnp_mU5_hroZajv0xJ5VRZ/s1600/Maureen031.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEju8FhZES_AeZSfue4cDf05j6hW8SgYAIj3xTOs78URFL7wWfL_xKDxU52gd6Z4bTrroY2E0lJeBfqwbWZPKcLFOnmftNR9gucJET7LhRQ4RB7V5sOvS8PFOUcnp_mU5_hroZajv0xJ5VRZ/s1600/Maureen031.jpg" height="640" width="424" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Maureen Washington ~ Photo by Dean Kalyan</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt;"><b>Focus Magazine </b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt;">November 20 & December 11
2014<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt;">JAZZ ALIVE!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt;">MAUREEN WASHINGTON & DANIEL
COOK<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt;">First Metropolitan Church<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt;">AS A TEENAGER SINGING with her
high school choir like the kids on Glee, Maureen Washington knew that one day
she would be a professional singer. She explains, “Music came alive in choir
for me. It was like I ate,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: medium;">dreamed, breathed, everything
music.” And, while the dream </span><span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: 19px;">didn't</span></span><span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: medium;"> come to fruition for many years after high
school, she admits that<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt;">“music was always a part of my
soul.” <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt;">Ms Washington is now an
award-winning jazz and blues artist, though she kind of fell into those genres.
She had begun her professional career as a “folky” Tracey Chapman singer/songwriter
type. But an opportunity arose to sing jazz, and Washington accepted, albeit
with a bit of trepidation: “It was like, ‘ok...?’” She does admit, however, “I
fell in love with the genre because it’s so unique, so<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt;">melodic. There’s cheekiness.
There’s sorrow. There’s all sorts of things that you can tell in the story of
the song. There’s so much expression that you can add into the music…I always
tell people, ‘I’m not really a singer, I’m a story teller.’”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt;">To tell that story, Washington
adopts the persona of the jazz diva, decked out in the<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt;">uniform of old Hollywood glamour:
a Breakfast at Tiffany’s bouffant, false eyelashes and dramatic makeup,
stunning gowns and cocktail dresses, evening gloves, and lots of bling. She
confesses, “I love old Hollywood. You look back at pictures, and just the
classiness and the elegance and all of that kind of thing.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt;">I
absolutely love it!” <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: medium;">And,
she has the musical chops to back it all up: abundant stage flair and a
luxuriant, powerful, emotive voice that grabs listeners and rules their
passions with ease. Washington’s exceptional expressive range actually inspired
Minister Allan Saunders of the First Metropolitan Church to develop the Jazz
Alive! Concert series. Each themed Wednesday event features a different local musician
performing, with readings by Saunders tied in. Themes include: gratitude,
journeys, life’s obstacles, and joy. Washington sees it as a chance for people
“to stop life and take a moment to reflect.” She also revels in the </span><span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: 19px;">ambiance</span></span><span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: medium;">.
Of her October performance, she says, “There was a really neat atmosphere in the
room. You could just feel this real great gentle energy.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt;">Washington
performs with Daniel Cook who co-wrote her album Here We Go Again. Cook is
known for his fresh brand of original West Coast roots music, and as a
guitarist who blends melody and minimalism into a sweet mix of jazz and country
guitar traditions. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt;">Some
other upcoming performers during the series include: Karel Roessingh with Aaron
Scoones (Nov 6), Kelby MacNayr (Nov 13 & Dec 4 ), and Aidan Miller (Nov
27).<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt;">Each </span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 14pt;">evening
ends with coffee and fellowship.Wednesday evenings until December 11,</span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt;">7-8
pm. Admission by donation. 932 Balmoral Rd, 250-388-5188,
www.firstmetvictoria.com.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt;">—Lisa
Szeker-Madden Focus Magazine <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="blogger-post-footer">http://www.reverbnation.com/maureenwashington
http://www.maureenwashington.ca
http://www.myspace.com/maureenwashington
http://www.myspace.com/maureenwashingtonchristmas
http://www.myspace.com/washingtoncooktrio</div>Diva Mhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10169161743627996365noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3637921849093024164.post-78745972066634458822014-02-11T05:22:00.000-08:002014-02-11T05:54:08.237-08:00NEWS PAPER ARTICLE FROM MONDAY MAGAZINE! <b>MUSIC Big Personality: Maureen Washington</b>
<br />
by Natalie North - Monday Magazine
posted Dec 19, 2013 at 11:00 AM
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjT7vRatsjr1Eo2o4amy5abAhnfN94L0hOFXKrncZ4Td6qpIG42lo1zF7WbLBaRG4WWbJHIkvfiBgQGajzunDKLboq69uMvGnF5m2Q6ZSEILx32V5CezCjbm3uGVdc7ZlknKYaxRot9YFZ-/s1600/_TLC0891.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjT7vRatsjr1Eo2o4amy5abAhnfN94L0hOFXKrncZ4Td6qpIG42lo1zF7WbLBaRG4WWbJHIkvfiBgQGajzunDKLboq69uMvGnF5m2Q6ZSEILx32V5CezCjbm3uGVdc7ZlknKYaxRot9YFZ-/s320/_TLC0891.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo by Tina Cyr</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
In a Victoria operating room, a nurse makes pre-surgery small talk.
“You’re a singer?” she says prior to beginning a routine procedure. “You should sing something for us.”
<br />
Her patient then launches into La Vie en Rose, the smooth French lyrics rise up and fill the OR. The nurse breaks down in tears.
<br />
“She said: ‘That just made my day. That just made my day,’” recounts jazz singer Maureen Washington. “And then she cut me up.”
<br />
Washington calls herself a storyteller. Her tales, in song, are woven from pieces of her own experiences, of which this single mother of five has plenty. Washington somehow played 99 shows in 2013. Still, she seemed just a little disappointed when that nurse didn’t request an encore performance at a follow up appointment. The vocalist, songwriter and self-described procrastinator had a holiday song ready and though she can grow a little tired of giving her goods away for free – cut to last January when she was held hostage taking requests at a karaoke night on vacation in Mexico – she revels in her calling as a songstress.
<br />
“I love the magic of being captivated in a song. Sometimes I just sing, but I love the magic that takes you away. It sometimes takes me away in a different way than the listeners, but I love that you can say so much in a song and be taken away to someplace else for that little moment.”
<br />
That love was strong enough to take Washington away quite literally – from her home town of Prince George, despite plenty of notoriety and work as a vocal coach and lounge singer. The shift can be attributed to a friendship with a man known-well around the Victoria music scene, singer-songwriter Daniel Cook. Washington met Cook while he was living up north and after a successful run in a dance band together, Cook began encouraging Washington to move to Victoria.
<br />
For someone entrenched in a life with five kids and a mortgage, her answer was plainly: no.
<br />
“He’d still phone and say: ‘When are you coming?’”
<br />
In August 2006, a 39-year-old Washington arrived in Victoria with four of her five kids (the fifth has since moved to the island to join her). That night, asleep in Cook’s basement, where the family stayed for their first month in the city, Washington awoke startled.
<br />
“I actually sat up and said ‘Oh my gosh, what did I just do?’ I just sold my house and moved my family here and I didn’t even know Victoria.”
<br />
With no job and no plan, coming off a hectic work/life schedule back in Prince George, Washington took advantage of her first months here to recharge. By Christmas, she began performing. Fast forward a few years and her gig schedule is once again non-stop.
<br />
“Some things you can look at logically and say: ‘That’s not going to work.’ I say: ‘What if it does work?’ Then I jump. Sometimes I don’t even have that conversation with myself. I just go and mid-jump I realize I didn’t look at the risks. But then it’s OK. I have a lot of confidence in who I am.”
<br />
This mom calls herself a diva for the glitz and glamour, not the attitude. But like others with the title, she’s bold. She’s a powerhouse vocalist in false eyelashes who doesn’t mind wiping a bandmate’s face if need be. And when she sees that diva strength come out in her daughters, she doesn’t mind at all.
<br />
“Some of the things that I’ve done in my life that my kids have watched, or seen me struggle through have brought in that confidence. Even the quiet ones have strong personalities.”
<br />
The next two leaps on the horizon for Washington: recording more music and heading out on tour. She considers both money-losers, but integral to telling her stories to new audiences.
<br />
“I always hope that people feel inspired. That they felt loved. That they felt sorrow. That they actually felt emotions. That they stopped their lives and actually just got to breathe. That they actually stopped their lives, whatever was going on and just had those moments to feel embraced, loved, angered. That they got to feel something other than stressed and busyness.”
<br />
Even if those moments happen in a hospital room.
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<div class="blogger-post-footer">http://www.reverbnation.com/maureenwashington
http://www.maureenwashington.ca
http://www.myspace.com/maureenwashington
http://www.myspace.com/maureenwashingtonchristmas
http://www.myspace.com/washingtoncooktrio</div>Diva Mhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10169161743627996365noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3637921849093024164.post-42376617545347943042013-08-07T14:31:00.000-07:002013-08-07T14:31:21.483-07:00Newspaper Article from The Prince George Citizen
<br /><br /><hr />
<a href="http://princegeorgecitizen.newspaperdirect.com/epaper/showlink.aspx?bookmarkid=78636Z42LUD6&linkid=33bbc886-2538-4e0e-aa4e-9596bf62b64a&pdaffid=b%2bBdb8zqBBwulGacF32OLQ%3d%3d"><span><strong>The Prince George Citizen</strong></span></a><br /><span><em>Aug 7 2013</em></span><br /><a href="http://princegeorgecitizen.newspaperdirect.com/epaper/showlink.aspx?bookmarkid=78636Z42LUD6&linkid=33bbc886-2538-4e0e-aa4e-9596bf62b64a&pdaffid=b%2bBdb8zqBBwulGacF32OLQ%3d%3d"><img src="http://cache2-thumb1.pressdisplay.com/pressdisplay/docserver/getimage.aspx?file=72542013080700000000001001&page=17&scale=29" style="float: left; margin: 0px 5px 0px 0px;" /></a><div class="blogger-post-footer">http://www.reverbnation.com/maureenwashington
http://www.maureenwashington.ca
http://www.myspace.com/maureenwashington
http://www.myspace.com/maureenwashingtonchristmas
http://www.myspace.com/washingtoncooktrio</div>Diva Mhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10169161743627996365noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3637921849093024164.post-58040000288381823282012-05-20T01:51:00.001-07:002012-10-23T22:23:33.218-07:00Newspaper article from Times Colonist<br />
<div class="headline" style="font-family: arial, verdana, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 11px; text-align: left;">
<h1 style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">
From food demos to jazz singer (with video)</h1>
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<div class="subheadline" style="font-family: arial, verdana, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 11px; text-align: left;">
<h2 style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">
Music was always in Maureen Washington's orbit, but cooking demonstrations tapped her inner performer</h2>
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</div>
<div class="byline" style="font-family: arial, verdana, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 11px; text-align: left;">
<span class="name">By Mike Devlin, Times Colonist</span> <span class="timestamp">May 16, 2012</span></div>
<span style="font-family: arial, verdana, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 11px; text-align: left;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: arial, verdana, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 11px;">Maureen Washington takes great delight in being called slightly outside the box.</span><br />
<div style="font-family: arial, verdana, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 11px; text-align: left;">
"I've been a crazy woman," Washington says with a big laugh. "I've worn a lot of hats in my life. I've been a million different people."</div>
<div style="font-family: arial, verdana, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 11px; text-align: left;">
Washington, 45, is a selftaught singer, teacher, entertainer, organizer and storyteller whose personality could be classified as larger-than-life. Wacky, perhaps.</div>
<div style="font-family: arial, verdana, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 11px; text-align: left;">
The gregarious singer with the solid-gold voice mines the jazz and blues repertoire for her concerts, but that's only half of what makes her so interesting. A conversation with Washington is full of stories that almost always end in laughter, tales you might consider too good to be true if the person telling them wasn't so eminently likable.</div>
<div style="font-family: arial, verdana, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 11px; text-align: left;">
She was born and raised in Prince George, the youngest child in a family that still has strong ties to the area (Washington's mother has lived in Prince George for 72 years).</div>
<div style="font-family: arial, verdana, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 11px; text-align: left;">
Washington was exposed to music throughout her childhood. Her tastes didn't always mesh with those of her parents and friends, so she developed some unique musical choices in her teens.</div>
<div style="font-family: arial, verdana, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 11px; text-align: left;">
Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons were a favourite, to the surprise of everyone. "I was always a little bit behind whatever kids were listening to. I loved the '50s. I loved the '60s. You could put on a piece of classical music and I was moved."</div>
<div style="font-family: arial, verdana, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 11px; text-align: left;">
Something musical was always in her orbit, though music didn't truly come alive for Washington until she was in high school.</div>
<div style="font-family: arial, verdana, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 11px; text-align: left;">
"I was in the choir, and everything I did - eat, sleep, drink - was music or anything to do with theatre and the arts."</div>
<div style="font-family: arial, verdana, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 11px; text-align: left;">
She graduated from Duchess Park secondary with no firm direction. She eventually enrolled in music classes at a college in Alberta, but her education became sidetracked almost immediately after Washington got married at 21.</div>
<div style="font-family: arial, verdana, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 11px; text-align: left;">
She returned to Prince George and by the time she was 28, she had given birth to five children, each of whom she home-schooled for seven years.</div>
<div style="font-family: arial, verdana, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 11px; text-align: left;">
Those days, as Washington jokingly describes them, were her "dark years" as a performer. She stopped singing - to anyone other than her kids - and was working for a direct-sales kitchen supply company, Pampered Chef, doing cooking demonstrations for clients.</div>
<div style="font-family: arial, verdana, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 11px; text-align: left;">
Surprisingly enough, it was during those presentations that she found her calling. "I started to realize I was an entertainer. I wasn't a sales person per se, because I had this shtick when I gave my spiel. It became an event."</div>
<div style="font-family: arial, verdana, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 11px; text-align: left;">
Bosses at her company intimated that Washington should resume her career as a performer. Being asked to sing at a company conference "spurred me back into it" for good, she said.</div>
<div style="font-family: arial, verdana, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 11px; text-align: left;">
It didn't take Washington long to settle into her new job. Music, as it turned out, became her saviour. "When I was 26 years old, I looked old. I felt old. But then I hit 35 and I started to look younger, feel younger."</div>
<div style="font-family: arial, verdana, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 11px; text-align: left;">
Her first kick at the can was an album of original alt-folk songs. Shortly thereafter, in 2002, she got hired to sing for a Prince George jazz band, Bop, a decision that would eventually bring her to Victoria.</div>
<div style="font-family: arial, verdana, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 11px; text-align: left;">
When Daniel Cook, lead guitarist of Bop, decided to move to Victoria in 2006, he told Washington to do the same. "I actually don't know why I thought it would be OK," Washington said with a big laugh. "I said, 'I have five kids and a mortgage, are you freaking kidding me?' "</div>
<div style="font-family: arial, verdana, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 11px; text-align: left;">
He wasn't. Cook left Prince George for Victoria in March of that year. Four months later, Washington had sold her house and was following suit, albeit with no discernible employment options.</div>
<div style="font-family: arial, verdana, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 11px; text-align: left;">
Against all odds, music wound up paying her bills. The pairing of Cook and Washington continues - they perform together Friday and Saturday night at Vista 18 in the Chateau Victoria Hotel - but the soulful singer has begun to work extensively with others, too, some of whom qualify as the best the city has to offer.</div>
<div style="font-family: arial, verdana, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 11px; text-align: left;">
That was her on-the-job training. "All my training has come from doing. The amount I have worked with Karel Roessingh over the last two years, he's been my teacher."</div>
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Now that her children are growing up and moving out - the youngest is now 17 - a new journey lies ahead for Washington.</div>
<div style="font-family: arial, verdana, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 11px; text-align: left;">
She'll face it headfirst, no matter the outcome.</div>
<div style="font-family: arial, verdana, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 11px; text-align: left;">
"When I'm 90, I'm not going to go, 'What would have happened had I moved to Victoria?' I can say, 'This is what happened when I moved to Victoria.' "</div>
<span style="font-family: arial, verdana, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 11px; text-align: left;"><br /><br />Read more: <a href="http://www.timescolonist.com/From+food+demos+jazz+singer+with+video/6629569/story.html#ixzz1vOjs7Yna" style="border-bottom-style: none; border-color: initial; border-image: initial; border-left-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-top-style: none; border-width: initial; color: #003399; font-family: arial; outline-color: initial; outline-style: none; outline-width: initial; text-decoration: none;">http://www.timescolonist.com/From+food+demos+jazz+singer+with+video/6629569/story.html#ixzz1vOjs7Yna</a></span><div class="blogger-post-footer">http://www.reverbnation.com/maureenwashington
http://www.maureenwashington.ca
http://www.myspace.com/maureenwashington
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http://www.myspace.com/washingtoncooktrio</div>Diva Mhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10169161743627996365noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3637921849093024164.post-49334018576463502472011-04-23T02:03:00.000-07:002011-04-23T02:06:13.908-07:00She won a Monday award on a Tuesday"They like me! They really, really like me!"<br /><br />It was one of those moments for Maureen Washington on Tuesday, when she won a fan-vote based Monday Magazine M award for best jazz and blues vocalist or group at the Victoria Event Centre.<br /><br />Washington grew up in Prince George and moved to Victoria four years ago to take a chance and further her musical career.<br /><br />"So having the support in my new town and the support in Prince George, it's absolutely astounding because this is the first time I've ever been nominated and to win when there's been people nominated off and on throughout the years and bang -- I'm just dumb founded with all the support I have," said Washington.<br /><br />It took a bit of time out of someone's busy day to find the website, register to vote and to vote, she added. She can't believe that many people took the time to do that -- for her, she said.<br /><br />"It overwhelms my heart," Washington said. "It's so fabulous. To be honest I didn't think I would win because the other two musicians are fantastic, phenomenal musicians that have been playing for many, many years in the community. But my people were just gung-ho and going for it."<br /><br />The evening of awards drove home the point for Washington that live performance is celebrated, ever-popular and still going strong, she said.<br /><br />"There are days that you spin your wheels and you ask yourself what you're doing this for," said Washington. "But when you know you've got all these people cheering you on, it makes you think you're going to get up and do another show and keep pushing it forward."<br /><br />Her category of best jazz and blues vocalist or group was called second during the gala evening.<br /><br />"There was a part of me that was sitting there just asking for it to be over with because I'm dying and then when I heard my category would go second it was like -- what?! Wait! I'm not ready!" she laughed.<br /><br />"They had a great MC and the staff at Monday Magazine is just so wonderful. It's their favourite event of the year and there's so much energy and talent in the room. And you know these artists that have been nominated are some of the best of the best. So it's a real highlight."<br /><br />Washington has been nominated for a Vancouver Island Music Award for Female Singer of the Year and the awards gala will be held in Courtenay on June 23.<br /><br />CHRISTINE SKOREPA<br />CITIZEN STAFF<br />CSKOREPA@PGCITIZEN.CA<br />Copyright 2011 Glacier Media Inc.<div class="blogger-post-footer">http://www.reverbnation.com/maureenwashington
http://www.maureenwashington.ca
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http://www.maureenwashington.ca
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http://www.myspace.com/maureenwashingtonchristmas
http://www.myspace.com/washingtoncooktrio</div>Diva Mhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10169161743627996365noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3637921849093024164.post-81027235629566317422011-02-16T00:43:00.000-08:002011-08-04T09:32:38.101-07:00Bits of History RepeatingFebruary 2011<br /><br />After a slight prompting of my Mum, I decided to talk a little about my last show.<br />I was hired by the Prince George Black History Organization to perform as their headliner for the kick off of the month long events for Black History.<br />An honor for me to be in my home town thinking of this thought provoking event. <br />I was born in Prince George, a predominately white community and we joke, that growing up in our community in the 70's, there were 3 black families: Morgans Reynolds and Washingtons. Of course there were more, but we were big family's and were easily noticed due to sports, church etc. <br /><br />Preparing for this show, I wanted to use new repertoire and began to research some songs with my pianist. One song I've always wanted to sing was <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Abel_Meeropol">Strange Fruit</a>, and after hearing <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cvwlPKCfkIM">Nina Simone's</a> haunting version, I knew hers was the one that I wanted to emulate. <br /><br />Looking for songs allows you to research and discover the stories behind the music which are interesting and eye opening. To read the struggles of the black musicians in the 20's, 30's, 40's etc. is encouraging yet heartbreaking; to see what these musicians had lived through, sacrificed and struggle throughout their lives just to make it 'big' in the industry, most of them paid improperly and with their lives. <br /><br />My experience:<br />Music has a beautiful way of documenting the events, emotions and details of a time and place. Their stories can be clear and concise or can leave room for interpretation. Strange Fruit is a powerful song that needs no interpretation. I realize that this song was written to remind us of what 'was' and what should never be. <br /><br />As I began to sing the song, Strange Fruit' I had vivid pictures in my mind and I struggled to sing without emotion, this was impossible. A waver here and there, but I pressed on as I felt that this story must be told yet again and especially for those who did not know of how severe the lynchings in the south was.<br />I came to last line and could go no further to make the statement of my people as "a strange a bitter crop" was too overwhelming for me. I stepped away from the microphone and allowed the pianist to play then shared these words from my heart. <br />"I am sorry for all of those who lost their lives, and yet, I am thankful for my grandparents and their parents that they had the courage to survive, for had they not, I would not be here today."<br /><br />It was a sobering thought for me... I am only here because of the courage and strength of my ancestors! <br /><br />I moved on to <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sam_Cooke">Sam Cook's</a> song "A Change is gonna come" it seemed most fitting after Strange Fruits morbid truth, to sing a song of hope, A hope for even now seemed most fitting. I love <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aHa096VQ8FE">SEAL'S</a> version of it. A beautiful classic song that has stood the test of time! Once again Sam's life ended early and to this day they really don't know how he was murdered. He wrote the song "A Change is Going to Come, after being inspired by Bob Dylan's song "Blowing in the Wind" It was a risky move on his part to sing boldly about racism, but after hearing Dylan's song he felt a song about racism should be told from a black man's point of view... So he took the risk and to this day we all still feel inspired and thank full by Sam Cooke's song!<br /><br />The whole night was moving for me, and I felt that I stepped ever so slightly in the inspiring shoes of these gifted song writers and performers from the past. I am humbled by their courage and thankful that these stories are still being told today. <br /><br />Diva M<div class="blogger-post-footer">http://www.reverbnation.com/maureenwashington
http://www.maureenwashington.ca
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http://www.myspace.com/washingtoncooktrio</div>Diva Mhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10169161743627996365noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3637921849093024164.post-62753993826155108252011-02-03T23:00:00.000-08:002011-02-16T20:11:24.121-08:00Blues In The Night - CD Review by Joseph BlakeVictoria-based vocalist Maureen Washington's Blues in the Night...and Stories My Mama Told Me is an inspired, impressive collection of performances. Backed by <a href="http://www.roessong.com/music.htm">Karel Roessingh's</a> elegantly bluesy piano, Washington reshapes an eclectic repertoire of her mother's favourite tunes with a smoldering, understated vocal approach.<br /><br />Her readings of Etta James' R&B classic <a href="http://www.cdbaby.com/cd/maureenwashington2">At Last</a> and Norah Jones' hit <a href="http://www.cdbaby.com/cd/maureenwashington2">Come Away</a> With Me burn with restraint and strength. Her version of <a href="http://www.cdbaby.com/cd/maureenwashington2">Peel Me a Grape</a> is more dramatic and features exquisite timing and taste. Backed by Roessingh's funky, parlor piano phrasing and masterful solo, it's a delight, as is Washington's equally theatrical reinvention of her <a href="http://www.youtube.com/user/maureenwashington">blues title track.</a> She works more restrained, subtle magic on vintage country material <a href="http://www.cdbaby.com/cd/maureenwashington2">You Don't Know Me</a> and <a href="http://www.cdbaby.com/cd/maureenwashington2">Turn Me On</a>. <a href="http://www.cdbaby.com/cd/maureenwashington2">Georgia</a> gets an even more soulful reading.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.cdbaby.com/cd/maureenwashington2">A Nightingale Sang in Berkeley Square</a> and <a href="http://www.cdbaby.com/cd/maureenwashington2">The First Time I Ever Saw Your Face</a> are stark, revealing readings, and the deep blues vocal on <a href="http://www.cdbaby.com/cd/maureenwashington2">Stormy Monday</a> wraps up a triumphant recording. Great!<br />Needless to say, I loved it.<br /><br />Joseph Blake<br /><br /><iframe title="YouTube video player" width="480" height="390" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/1rmi9BlqixM" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe><div class="blogger-post-footer">http://www.reverbnation.com/maureenwashington
http://www.maureenwashington.ca
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http://www.myspace.com/washingtoncooktrio</div>Diva Mhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10169161743627996365noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3637921849093024164.post-15640529784490001772011-01-09T19:51:00.000-08:002011-01-09T20:50:09.033-08:00Music Promo by Richie AuriemmaVictoria, BC has a secret......but not the kind that's kept under wraps or behind closed doors.....it shines in the beautiful & talented Maureen Washington.<br /><br />Man, can this gal belt it out.And then in the next breath enchant you & perhaps make you & your partner to dance a little closer...smile a little deeper.<br /><br />Smooth is a word that used an awful lot for jazzy type singers. Maureen is the definition of it. The end as well as the beginning.<br /><br />There is a richness in her tone that I have never heard before from any other singer. To hear it nine fold, check out <a href="http://www.reverbnation.com/play_now/song_3039732">LA VIE EN ROSE</a>......it's what dreams are made of.<br /><br />You know how you feel when you hear a voice that you know is gonna be with you forever.....I find this with Maureen Washington. A true singer out there in a field of her own goodness.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.reverbnation.com/play_now/song_3039721">SUMMERTIME</a>, <a href="http://www.reverbnation.com/play_now/song_129941">RIGHT STUFF</a>, & <a href="http://www.reverbnation.com/play_now/song_6065419">LETS MAKE IT HAPPEN</a> are diamonds to discover here as well.<br /><br />I am head over heels for Maureen's work....you will be to....and you'll thank me for it. I PROMISE!!!!<br /><br />Please support Maureen Washington & her stellar body of work.<br /><br />Tx--Richie Auriemma<br /><a href="http://www.reverbnation.com/auriemma?eid=A667989_6974361_24311946">http://www.reverbnation.com/auriemma</a><br /><br /> <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhq2W8XOfcFms2jjW9wi1lqQt7MuYWz2zxFO3WErTuPUREhYiZBrp1ygVPwSOLdOxr0V_bYBhbXQ0yH2C3uabiAv51lhrD-wxb-2tN7Rs5KX4P9wGNVh-zIhZmo1IN1UCt9eTRML6tZ5gmZ/s1600/maur.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhq2W8XOfcFms2jjW9wi1lqQt7MuYWz2zxFO3WErTuPUREhYiZBrp1ygVPwSOLdOxr0V_bYBhbXQ0yH2C3uabiAv51lhrD-wxb-2tN7Rs5KX4P9wGNVh-zIhZmo1IN1UCt9eTRML6tZ5gmZ/s400/maur.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5560405444029508530" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.reverbnation.com/maureenwashington">http://www.reverbnation.com/maureenwashington</a><div class="blogger-post-footer">http://www.reverbnation.com/maureenwashington
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http://www.myspace.com/washingtoncooktrio</div>Diva Mhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10169161743627996365noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3637921849093024164.post-58829107730139205422010-11-11T13:35:00.000-08:002010-11-11T13:38:00.955-08:00Blues in the Night show review by Christine Skorepa - PG CitizenOctober 22, 2010<br /><br />Christine Skorepa<br />Citizen staff<br /><br />There's something to be said for days gone by when big boxy microphones were used by a bluesy soul songstress as she soothed stressed audience members with her sultry tone.<br /><br />Maureen Washington performed at the Prince George Playhouse last weekend to celebrate her new CD release Blues in the Night and what a night it was.<br /><br />Washington floated to the microphone in a siren-red dress and when she opened her mouth the sheer emotion she poured into her music was enough to set my heart stirring.<br /><br />I know I was only one girl sitting with one boy in the audience but Washington moved me like I have never been moved before. I cried through her entire first set of songs.<br /><br />At Last my was complete undoing and right along with Peel Me A Grape, Blues in the Night and the heart break of You Don't Know Me left me shattered - but in a good way. It was so moving.<br /><br />Washington's voice is unique, strong yet smooth and her dulcet tones are those of a familiar friend and a vamp. It's just amazing to me to watch the emotions wash over her lovely face in a very telling way and she connects to her audience by including them in her joys and triumphs, her sorrow and heart break.<br /><br />Because the album is dedicated and created for her mother Barbara Washington, who was in the audience, there was a dialogue being carried on between the two of them and I don't mean emotionally. I mean they were talking to each other throughout the concert with Barbara sharing some sweet moments with the audience as well. It was great to be a witness to this tribute that honoured a mother well loved by her daughter.<br /><br />Washington grew up in Prince George and moved to Victoria to further her career four years ago. Because of her strong connections to this town she returns often.<br /><br />I must say Karel Roessingh the piano player that accompanied Washington was superb. He literally tickled the ivories and I finally got what that phrase meant. His fingers flew so quickly and the notes were so clear and crisp and I get it. He really did tickle the ivories.<br /><br />Shawn Smith played saxophone and clarinet to lend a lovely tone to the songs. He seemed very experienced and was very good humoured when Washington got a bit playful with him, adding to the performance.<br /><br />Washington gave the evening her all and left nothing undone. Her performance is something I will never forget and for her finale she chose Georgia because it reminds her of Prince George and finally, I was not alone with my tears. Several members of the audience joined me and I was so happy to see that.<br /><br />So, Prince George music lovers, don't miss the next opportunity to hear Washington sing. She's coming back to town at the beginning of December.<br /><br />I'll keep you posted on the details.<br /><br />In the meantime check her out at http://www.reverbnation.com/maureenwashington.<br /><br />[Get Copyright Permissions] Click here for reuse options!<br />Copyright 2010 Glacier Media Inc.<div class="blogger-post-footer">http://www.reverbnation.com/maureenwashington
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http://www.maureenwashington.ca
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http://www.myspace.com/washingtoncooktrio</div>Diva Mhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10169161743627996365noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3637921849093024164.post-71463626612247183982010-08-19T08:27:00.000-07:002011-08-04T09:40:05.893-07:00Just my thoughtsI moved to this place to create a better life for myself and my children. I really was hoping to see my career take off, which in my mind would mean more money, which would equal a better life.<br />I know that money doesn't buy you happiness, but it's sure important... like breathing. I really wanted to have a life where we didn't worry about being able to pay the bills, and when emergencies show up we could cover it, and could eat out how ever much we wanted and be able to go on trips etc. <br />But here I am poverty stricken once again. Of course I am richer than I think. Heck we pay 1990.00 for rent and 650.00 for private school fees per month. But it's the debt load that hangs over my head. Too much spending, when there was work, too much spending when there wasn't work. Credit cards were at times a way to keep us alive. I will admit there is always frivolous spending.<br /><br />A year ago I was introduced (on line) to a author named Elizabeth Gilbert. She had some phenomenal book out that went crazy in sales and changed her life. Actually the book was about 'how' she had changed her life from desperation to peace. She had changed, wrote the book and her life changed yet again.<br /><br />When I first watched her presentation on TED called <a href="http://blog.ted.com/2009/02/09/elizabeth_gilbe/">A DIFFERENT WAY TO THINK ABOUT THE CREATIVE GENIUS</a>, it was mind boggling how effortless she presented. She was in a realm beyond me, and spoke about the creative process I was amazed and I loved it, I ran out bought the book. (Not that the book was about her presentation)<br />If you know me, you know I LOVE to buy books with good intentions of 'ONE DAY' I'm going to read them all! I will proudly say I have read at least half of this book. It was inspiring, and I felt that she was telling my story on these pages. Yes, it was amazing and inspiring to find someone as crazy as myself in black and white.<br />I've kept trying to finish it... but after a long break from reading, Ihave lost some of my memories of some of the content. <br />Happily I found out they made a movie about the book! (more and more I realize that I am a visual learner which might be another reason why I don't fully read the books I buy)<br />The movie came out and I was on a mission! I didn't take anyone with me, I just needed to be alone. I didn't want someone else to distract me or complain they didn't like it etc... <br />I WAS MOVED! <br />How was I to remember all the important lessons that were helping her to grow and change to a woman of peace right before my eyes? I immediately made the decision to see it again, buy the DVD and finish reading the damn book. Five days after seeing it the first time, I saw it again. A little less frantic on trying to remember everything that was going to help me change my life, which I took as a good sign; but still determined to learn the freedoms to peace that she found.<br /><br />On my drive home from the movie, still in tears, I started to stop looking at my bad and start looking at my good. All the good things that I 'had' done for my children, how I have shown them courage, strength, determination, opportunities that can be created, and survival! I feel like a failure so weak and lifeless most of the time, but this is in my head, probably due to fear. But who I am and what I do is completely different. <br />How many people would sell their house, pack up their five children and move to a city they've never really been to? Then proceed to create a life, make friends with musicians, land gigs at prestigious venues, record 3 albums within 4 years of being here, still keep her kids organised, fed and sheltered while walking them through some of their own difficult situations, work part time, then work full time all while gigging 3-5 times per month, not to mention while working in and around and through a messed up relationship which cancer enters the picture 2 years in.<br />I'M PRETTY AMAZING!!!!<br /><br />Diva M<div class="blogger-post-footer">http://www.reverbnation.com/maureenwashington
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http://www.myspace.com/maureenwashington
http://www.myspace.com/maureenwashingtonchristmas
http://www.myspace.com/washingtoncooktrio</div>Diva Mhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10169161743627996365noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3637921849093024164.post-2789909792252375382010-06-02T13:21:00.000-07:002017-11-11T19:05:29.376-08:00Adventures in Recording Part 4<span style="font-weight: bold;"><br /><span style="font-size: 130%;"><span style="font-family: "georgia";">THE RECORDING!!!! </span></span></span><span style="font-size: 130%;"><br /><span style="font-family: "georgia";">We started last week laying down the "bed tracks" <span style="font-style: italic;">(This is the foundation for the album, it consists of the drums, guitar and bass.)</span> The guys were amazing!! They easily settled into great grooves and some stellar musicianship was highlighted though out the day.<br />We only used a </span><span style="font-family: "georgia";"> click track for one of the tunes... it was HILARIOUS, it sounded like the pings from the old Atari games!</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 130%;"><span style="font-family: "georgia";">How the drummer kept a great groove with "pong,ping,ping,ping: pong,ping,ping,ping" in his head phones I will NEVER know. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 130%;"><span style="font-family: "georgia";">But all and all after a good day of working hard we were able to finish all the bed tracks. WOOT!</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: "georgia";">Next session was the vocals: THIS, took a bit more time, as it should.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 130%;"><span style="font-family: "georgia";"></span><br /><span style="font-family: "georgia";">Hummm, how to describe it? ahhhhhh, oohhhhh, wellllll... (I've started this sentence at least four times)</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: georgia;"><span style="font-size: 130%;">Here is the </span><span style="font-size: 20.8px;">synopsis</span><span style="font-size: 130%;">...</span></span><span style="font-family: "georgia"; font-size: 130%;"> I go in looking like this.... (an original from the day)</span><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvlWW87C_ZdiKdtH6jAWeHGbsbswW-sMETTa6t8uOJYZjjXUVI1pU7Kui0TZgEFBFCFaPptksLYxIbDc4_5sbh4PMwi-j6OI3ErcUb1VVgP-OeIdiI5YDNsGoZInq4YVRGZFPzoZu3QD9C/s1600/recording+day+one+%28450+x+600%29.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5478279041052595890" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvlWW87C_ZdiKdtH6jAWeHGbsbswW-sMETTa6t8uOJYZjjXUVI1pU7Kui0TZgEFBFCFaPptksLYxIbDc4_5sbh4PMwi-j6OI3ErcUb1VVgP-OeIdiI5YDNsGoZInq4YVRGZFPzoZu3QD9C/s1600/recording+day+one+(450+x+600).jpg" style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt;" /></a><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-m5pFi6YOZtJ-1wFGRlwN2lyUQf39iFY89nhcW6B7tc4uyvfN8FUd_kotC-yJ8sP6eaM8wsWvPqdx6O__KoXdhscHOIp23hGVmO4A0sChmaHbnv1MLDHGr3sgaMGanSxgMzgW9MNLIoV8/s1600/frazzle+cat.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="273" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5478278247122958626" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-m5pFi6YOZtJ-1wFGRlwN2lyUQf39iFY89nhcW6B7tc4uyvfN8FUd_kotC-yJ8sP6eaM8wsWvPqdx6O__KoXdhscHOIp23hGVmO4A0sChmaHbnv1MLDHGr3sgaMGanSxgMzgW9MNLIoV8/s400/frazzle+cat.jpg" style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px;" width="400" /></a><br />
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<span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: 130%;">And I come out looking like THIS!!! </span><br />
<span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: 130%;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: 130%;">No, I'm not being over dramatic!! Vocal recording is crazy hard work. You have to hit ALL the pitches perfectly, and articulate clearly... "don sha wanna be wit geen", does not come out as the sentence should when it's being permanently recorded!</span><br />
<span style="font-size: 130%;"><br /><span style="font-family: "georgia";">(please keep in mind for this next part... the singer MUST be totally relaxed)</span><br /><span style="font-family: "georgia";">I go in to the wee booth or in this case, a 3 sided very short hallway with the head phones on both ears. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 130%;"><span style="font-family: "georgia";">Sing through the song: </span></span><span style="font-size: 130%;"><span style="font-family: "georgia";">The engineer now tells me where I </span></span><span style="font-family: "georgia"; font-size: 130%; font-style: italic;">"was a bit pitchy."</span><span style="font-size: 130%;"><span style="font-family: "georgia";"> ok. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 130%;"><span style="font-family: "georgia";">I remove one side of the head phones, (ahh yes this is how all the stars do it... they look soooo cool. Look at me... looking cool!!!) </span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 130%;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">Sing through: "<i>ahh, </i></span></span><span style="font-family: "georgia"; font-size: 130%;"><i>still pitchy here and um, here"</i></span><span style="font-size: 130%;"><span style="font-family: "georgia";"><i>.</i></span><br /><span style="font-family: "georgia";">I now stand taller and work at holding my rib cage higher.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 130%;"><span style="font-family: "georgia";">Sing through: </span></span><span style="font-family: "georgia"; font-size: 130%; font-style: italic;">"Pitchy, just...here"</span><span style="font-size: 130%;"><span style="font-family: "georgia";">. </span><br /><span style="font-family: "georgia";">I now lift up both arms and hold the other earphone slightly away from my head, and press both elbows on the walls for support. </span><br /><span style="font-family: "georgia";">Sing through...</span></span><span style="font-family: "georgia"; font-size: 130%; font-style: italic;"> "stop... no...let's start that again that first phrase is off now"</span><span style="font-size: 130%;"><span style="font-family: "georgia";">... </span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 130%;"><span style="font-family: "georgia";">I open my eyes wider and try to smile through the singing.<i> "OK that was good, do you want to listen?" </i></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 130%;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">I am no longer relaxed and feel quite exhausted. </span><span style="font-family: "georgia";">I untangle myself and leave the head phones to go and listen, mean while my hair is now all matted and my (pits) have worked up a good sweat. Song #One done! ONLY Six to go! </span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 130%;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "georgia";">After 1 1/2 days of singing seven tunes I think vocal recording should be done in a bathing suit!!</span><br /><span style="font-family: "georgia";">on second thought....</span><br /><span style="font-family: "georgia";">I think I should have been a librarian!</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: "georgia";">Diva M \o/</span></span><div class="blogger-post-footer">http://www.reverbnation.com/maureenwashington
http://www.maureenwashington.ca
http://www.myspace.com/maureenwashington
http://www.myspace.com/maureenwashingtonchristmas
http://www.myspace.com/washingtoncooktrio</div>Diva Mhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10169161743627996365noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3637921849093024164.post-11948883654112777602010-04-28T16:11:00.000-07:002010-04-29T08:18:00.346-07:00Some thoughts on Social Media!! IT'S GREAT<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTDWqlwwskXO3ahQcVIdRyLm0GYFP9mrEbtHUNgsldCTONNCGdxDcPmA2dRN2wt3yf7Hx2g0O6hyphenhyphen56D68r25AEno7bepBXJR5-rlPqwJgBNq8iPGCmVuSbqQHZllXTVekwXrmBNUGAFOjW/s1600/social-network.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTDWqlwwskXO3ahQcVIdRyLm0GYFP9mrEbtHUNgsldCTONNCGdxDcPmA2dRN2wt3yf7Hx2g0O6hyphenhyphen56D68r25AEno7bepBXJR5-rlPqwJgBNq8iPGCmVuSbqQHZllXTVekwXrmBNUGAFOjW/s200/social-network.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5465335750186665506" /></a><br />I've been working as a musician for a few years now, and have mostly just stumbled onto things that have worked to build recognition and my fan base.<br />The newest things that I have been intentionally working on are in the area of online social media and marketing. <br /><br />Twitter has become an AMAZING resource for me as a musician combined with using the software HootSuite. This is a great way to build friends, fans and more recognition. <br />I've met some amazing social net work gurus who have already invented the wheel, I've connected with some of them and have asked a few questions, now I just have to apply it to my life and business.<br /><br />In Particular, HootSuite has been great to link me to all my social net works, such as Myspace, Facebook, LinkedIn and Facebook Pages. The software is simple to use and connects you to your status updates in all those applications.<br />"It's a one stop status update shop!" and I can designate which status get updates and with what particular content. This has saved me time and has made my 'alive and active' presence known, which in turn has connected me to more people. <br />I've only been tweeting for a short time and have seen how my tweet from my city in Victoria Canada was retweeted by a woman in Nashville USA and then retweeted again by another organization in Nashville. These happen over and over again.<br />Music and promotion isn't the only thing I talk about on Twitter either, I am a real person with ideas, stories, jokes, questions just like everyone else. So in 140 characters or less, I can share some pretty neat ideas, and have some fun.<br /><br />I also use Reverbnation as my main music website. This free software is amazing, again easy to use and the features it has are to many to list. It also is connected to Twitter and I am able to update my twitter, facebook and myspace from within Reverbnation too. I wish I could encourage more musicians to catch on to this amazing free software and sign up. So easy to use and as I said covers so many areas that a musicaian needs. Once all your information is inputed, it's done and It allows the musician to focus on being that, a musician.<br /><br />Lastly I have found the more the applications and software connects to each other the closer your connection and online presence becomes huge.<br />I have added as many connected links to each site so that they connect each other. So CDBABY, ReverbNation, my Blog, Website, Twitter, Facebook, Youtube, Myspace LASTFM.com, NUMUBU.com are all connected to each other in at least one way and some 7 ways. <br />Putting in this effort to work hard connecting all my dots is really paying off, I have almost doubled my fan base on Reverbnation, increased my followers on Twitter and made some amazing new friends online from all over the world!<br /><br />Now the easy part, sit back connect and sing my heart out!!<br />Diva M<div class="blogger-post-footer">http://www.reverbnation.com/maureenwashington
http://www.maureenwashington.ca
http://www.myspace.com/maureenwashington
http://www.myspace.com/maureenwashingtonchristmas
http://www.myspace.com/washingtoncooktrio</div>Diva Mhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10169161743627996365noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3637921849093024164.post-50402624012827181742010-04-15T15:08:00.000-07:002010-04-15T17:36:37.814-07:00Adventures in Recording Part 3: I'm sooo EXCITED<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyTBchWZ0RwjSDNVme0WHP-LPZ0hATbLQi3WIbpQjTwG0xMkf9UUUUfmlvNctYidPXBSOVQHxKLp2ZLcu0fZFfCoLq8XQ0EOYgVOdtJQfYgXwf1IuWsbKt0Q7CmLPyUHI4-2w8MMjirsvs/s1600/StudioRecording.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 182px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyTBchWZ0RwjSDNVme0WHP-LPZ0hATbLQi3WIbpQjTwG0xMkf9UUUUfmlvNctYidPXBSOVQHxKLp2ZLcu0fZFfCoLq8XQ0EOYgVOdtJQfYgXwf1IuWsbKt0Q7CmLPyUHI4-2w8MMjirsvs/s200/StudioRecording.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5460527666282149394" /></a><br /><br /><br />I just had to stop what I was doing and write an update! <br /><br />I'm SOOOO EXCITED, we've booked our dates for the recording. It was seamless!<br />Daniel emailed the musicians and engineer with the dates that we thought would be good, and everyone said YES! May 23, 24 and 26 for the beginning bed tracks!<br />There was no re-figuring or having to go back and forth with dates or schedules. <br />I wish I could explain what a relief this is and how it just brings another level of excitement! This makes the recording more a reality that "IT'S REEEEEALLLY GOING TO HAPPEN"!<br /><br />Daniel and I meet once a week to connect, rehearse songs, and create new ones. This time together helps me find more of an attachment to the new songs, which is so important to me. I like to find the truth of me in each song, as it's always my goal to live the story of the song and bring it to life... (even if it's not my story) The more I sing them, the easier the picture I am able to paint for myself and the listeners! <br /><br />The new songs are WONDERFUL, and I can't wait to share them with you all! I KNOW you will love them. We will be re-doing two songs from the past adding new life and spice to them I CAN'T WAIT!! <br /><br />Our plan for the next session is to do a rough recording of the tunes for the musicians to learn. <br /><br />I'd love to let you have a listen to the snippets but that would spoil all the fun!<br />No one likes a fun spoiler!<br /><br />Diva M<div class="blogger-post-footer">http://www.reverbnation.com/maureenwashington
http://www.maureenwashington.ca
http://www.myspace.com/maureenwashington
http://www.myspace.com/maureenwashingtonchristmas
http://www.myspace.com/washingtoncooktrio</div>Diva Mhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10169161743627996365noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3637921849093024164.post-315331357331868312010-04-09T07:10:00.000-07:002010-04-09T08:47:51.891-07:00Adventures in Recording Part 2Light Camera ACTION!<br />Actually this is the wrong media, but I like how it brings to attention the start of something and makes it feel exciting.<br />In recording I don't really know what they say, I think it's just, 'go' or go head, I'm rolling. Not so exciting nor does it really doesn't evoke good imagery.<br /><br />Dan and I are making great steps to solidify the things we need to get this recording completed.<br />Recording Date (check, well almost)<br />Musicians (check)<br />Engineer (check)<br />Songs (check)<br /><br />When choosing musicians it can be very difficult as there are so many amazing ones out there, and some who have become close personal friends. I truly want to give the work to all of them. But in the end it comes down to; availability, sound, feel, personality, price, speed at which they record, and just good gut feelings. Sadly, many of my musicians friends STILL fit that criteria. Plain and simple, It's hard to choose.<br /><br />We have chosen our Drummer and Bassist which will be our foundation. Daniel has chosen the Engineer. If our budget allows for it, we will hire horn players etc. but this will be after the main portion of the recording is done.<br /><br />Our plan will be, to do one evening of rehearsing then jump into the studio with both feet, we figure sometime towards the end of May. <br /><br />April is a busy month gig wise for me. Daniel and the Bassist will perform at many of the gigs with me. This will allow for a bit more pre rehearsal time for the three of us and also allows me to work out the phrasings and feels of the songs. Believe it or not a song rehearsed or performed in front of a live audience has two distinct feels to it. The energy that draws from the listeners is so vital to my performance. Hopefully I will be able to take the energy that I feel from a performance and bring it into the studio.<br /> <br />At our last gig, Daniel and I were excited to see our original tunes come to life as they were acknowledged positively by our listeners, a proud feeling for both of us. <br />Truth be told, they are Daniel's babies cause he writes most of the tune... I just go along for the song.<br /><br />Diva M<div class="blogger-post-footer">http://www.reverbnation.com/maureenwashington
http://www.maureenwashington.ca
http://www.myspace.com/maureenwashington
http://www.myspace.com/maureenwashingtonchristmas
http://www.myspace.com/washingtoncooktrio</div>Diva Mhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10169161743627996365noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3637921849093024164.post-45744375568562521862010-03-31T12:36:00.000-07:002010-03-31T18:37:03.067-07:00Adventures in Recording.....<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpW8r-6PbMqJ8oO7VLAaclooBKRvfkUrR3VzZ0UE_MpwnYVUCPFBIgAmn3k3ISuFwj7fWSuSbSdMKvmbjP_9OqGS8WvKu5oaOl1S0itSF38HlKqi92NMhgFn6jwPQ6RYJyzuhq4tKAHt6v/s1600/Vinyl.Record.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpW8r-6PbMqJ8oO7VLAaclooBKRvfkUrR3VzZ0UE_MpwnYVUCPFBIgAmn3k3ISuFwj7fWSuSbSdMKvmbjP_9OqGS8WvKu5oaOl1S0itSF38HlKqi92NMhgFn6jwPQ6RYJyzuhq4tKAHt6v/s200/Vinyl.Record.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5454959079419389682" /></a><br />Part 1!<br /><br />I have just begun a recording project with my good friend and musician colleague Daniel Cook. It will be 'sort of' the second recording that we have done together. The first being the BOP album which was a collaboration of our 5 piece band 5 years ago. <br />This will be a duo project right out of the gate... which all decisions and funding will be made by ourselves. Exciting, with glimpses of stress muddled in there.<br /><br />To begin, we each have brought some money to the table and understand that our budget will dictate a lot of our decisions. You can have a wonderful wish list of hiring the best Engineers, Producers, Masters and every stellar musician you know, but at the end of the day when you are an independent artist the BUDGET WILL tell you what you can and can not have.<br /><br />We are recording an EP:Here is the definition of EP<br /><blockquote><span style="font-style:italic;">EP stands for "extended play" as they are longer than the original single 45s,(vinyl)and usually containing 4 tracks. Artists usually release EPs before their whole album comes out. It is to give the fans a taste of what is coming. It could include anywhere from 2 to 10 songs often depending on the length of the full album. The EP would come out anywhere from 2 months to a year before the full length album.<br /><br />A good example of an EP containing 4 tracks was the Beatles' 'Twist and Shout (EP)'. The format was also used as a low-cost way of showcasing new artists.<br /><br />In appearance, the EP was similar to a 7" Single but played at 33 1/3rpm rather than 45rpm. </span></blockquote><br /><br />So, even though the music industry has moved to digital CD's etc. we've kept the same description of a 'short' album and EP.<br /><br />Our new CD will have 6 original tunes written by Daniel and myself, featuring a variety of different styles and stories. As Daniel and I work together we seem to finish up songs quite quickly and keep adding them to the list as we go, knowing some might be cut due to the BUDGET. <br /><br />We bounced around some ideas of the title for the album and some ideas for the album cover. It's not always easy making these types of decisions since there are two very different personalities and distinct ideas. We will work hard at compromise. As I jokingly say to Daniel... we will do whatever he decides and I'll go along with it! <br /><br />One wonderful new technology for independent artists are download cards. This is an awesome way to sell music with very low over head for the artist. I am uncertain of how they are being received by the general public, if they (general public) will miss having the jewel cases, thanks yous and lyrics sheets.I think as time moves on, download cards will become more and more common. <br />Who knew that we would go from an etched vinyl record to a simple download card????<br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnRIxR6LtvvmUnQtVmEVZAuBYMBVnme5I3HjF1CwJgxX0F6S4RqOVt9qvLrqWDq100oHNd5iInLrzhvl_YWgZoTXjmO-PsXyMl_IKB4zjxfPfDe__TBNTk2aOTMem4hS-5FJBbuIM91Svu/s1600/Download+cards.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnRIxR6LtvvmUnQtVmEVZAuBYMBVnme5I3HjF1CwJgxX0F6S4RqOVt9qvLrqWDq100oHNd5iInLrzhvl_YWgZoTXjmO-PsXyMl_IKB4zjxfPfDe__TBNTk2aOTMem4hS-5FJBbuIM91Svu/s400/Download+cards.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5454959464592239666" /></a><br /><br />Diva M<div class="blogger-post-footer">http://www.reverbnation.com/maureenwashington
http://www.maureenwashington.ca
http://www.myspace.com/maureenwashington
http://www.myspace.com/maureenwashingtonchristmas
http://www.myspace.com/washingtoncooktrio</div>Diva Mhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10169161743627996365noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3637921849093024164.post-9523771059005284802010-03-29T15:10:00.000-07:002010-03-29T23:30:46.779-07:00I Could be repeating myself, I could be repeating myself!I truly wish I would take this blogging more seriously. I seem to let my mind stray from being focused on writing something profound or somewhat ear-catching.<br />Always making plans to write.... later, asking other writers & musician friends what keeps them focused at writing. And let me say, when I get on that path, this quest could keep me preoccupied for months. I just keep asking and asking and not getting the answers that I think I want to hear, or just the answer that says 'they have no idea either'.... this of course helps to hold me back from.....<br /><br />It's not like I have a boring, hum drum life. I've 5 kids: who are either adults or on the verge of adulthood. That in itself is a bizarre roller coaster of life. Lots to write about there.<br />I'm a singer trying to build a music career to sustain myself and my family in this crazy economy AND, at my age. (again so much to write about that)<br />I have a partner who is battling an extreme rare form of terminal cancer. This again has much content to write about, but yet at the same time is difficult to write out the pains of the heart.<br /><br />So, why on earth could I be avoiding these blogs? (this is where I really think I'm repeating myself) I have no idea why I block and censor myself on writing.<br /><br />I especially want to write music again and I truly feel a regular blog will help get the cobwebs cleaned out......<br />Maybe I find the cobwebs comforting.......<br /><br />Diva M<div class="blogger-post-footer">http://www.reverbnation.com/maureenwashington
http://www.maureenwashington.ca
http://www.myspace.com/maureenwashington
http://www.myspace.com/maureenwashingtonchristmas
http://www.myspace.com/washingtoncooktrio</div>Diva Mhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10169161743627996365noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3637921849093024164.post-91588959362029821152010-03-15T13:45:00.000-07:002010-03-16T15:20:01.030-07:00Yes I "think" I'm still breathingTime seems to keep speeding up. Especially when I'm not paying too close attention.<br />I can't believe how each week just bleeds into the next.<br /><br />I work my two days at the J.O.B. and while I'm there my mind is focused on all the things that I am not doing to encourage my music career. 'Aha' moments of what I will do when I'm on 'days off' plans plans plans.. and so many good intentions. <br />plans to score music<br />plans to write original music<br />plans to blog<br />plans to exercise<br />plans to eat right<br />plans to sus out new venues for music<br />plans to cook exotic tasty dishes for my family<br />plans to clean.... up the entire house<br />plans to plan a music career that will invite a richer income<br />plans to network with new musicians<br />plans to record an album<br /><br />But I must confess that once the days off are present, I find myself busy watching the cooking network. So many shows, so many chefs, so little time to take it all in.<br /><br />The good thing though, at least I'm consistent and still breathing... in and out.. in and out.. in and out...<br /><br />Diva M<div class="blogger-post-footer">http://www.reverbnation.com/maureenwashington
http://www.maureenwashington.ca
http://www.myspace.com/maureenwashington
http://www.myspace.com/maureenwashingtonchristmas
http://www.myspace.com/washingtoncooktrio</div>Diva Mhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10169161743627996365noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3637921849093024164.post-68921927673647681732010-02-14T21:49:00.000-08:002010-02-14T22:09:54.256-08:00Can I Ask A Question?I need to ask an important question. Unfortunately I don't have a lot of followers on my blog, actually I don't have any. *sheepish smile*<br />But, on the slight chance that you, YES you might be reading this, I would like to ask you this question in hope that you will be able to comment with an answer.<br /><br />How do you stay motivated? <br /><br />When you start out on your race, plans, goals, dreams or ideas, HOW do you stay focused and motivated and keep going? Could there be tricks to stay the course? Is there ways to stay strong and not become defeated and give up when the goal seems just out of reach and so far off or when you feel just too damn old? <br /><br />I would love to hear some of your ideas on what helps you to stay on your game.<br /><br />Diva M<div class="blogger-post-footer">http://www.reverbnation.com/maureenwashington
http://www.maureenwashington.ca
http://www.myspace.com/maureenwashington
http://www.myspace.com/maureenwashingtonchristmas
http://www.myspace.com/washingtoncooktrio</div>Diva Mhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10169161743627996365noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3637921849093024164.post-42408441343516067462010-02-07T15:59:00.000-08:002010-02-12T15:26:12.711-08:00Which Way Now???<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYCPqaF6XVntM-LuW1Bwi03XwfulMER1umhc2uuL3o35yGbxHnk7h0E5EMf51lB5ql6b9j-cUJzwf6gllJLYSW_XRA06_W0pTHOiG1CAA9zMy3iu9HnvrJH1dGwZ-jwMOy5SfI7oVBqfZY/s1600-h/compass.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 146px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYCPqaF6XVntM-LuW1Bwi03XwfulMER1umhc2uuL3o35yGbxHnk7h0E5EMf51lB5ql6b9j-cUJzwf6gllJLYSW_XRA06_W0pTHOiG1CAA9zMy3iu9HnvrJH1dGwZ-jwMOy5SfI7oVBqfZY/s400/compass.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5435656136862329826" /></a><br />
<br />
I'm a little stuck on what steps to take in my life. <br />
My desire is to be a full time musician. <br />
Financially it's not the easiest thing to do as you have to be very well known, selling lots of merchandise, and gigging at the she she poo poo, high-end venues and events.<br />
<br />
2009 I was working a j.o.b., actually I was working for two to make full time work. December 4th I was let go from the more substantial one. (It wasn't the best environment anyway)but it has left my pocket book very empty and now the bills are beginning to pile up. <br />
<br />
A few other things have changed in my home as well. The mister has recently 'retired' from work and will be receiving a disability pension as he is unable to work from the medication he takes to battle cancer. (this is a whole other blog)<br />
Once his payments kick in, it 'sort of' allows me to not have to work full time at a j.o.b. which also brings the possibility for me to focus on crafting my music, writing, and the idea of traveling to other cities to perform.<br />
<br />
Just after Christmas I had obtained a second j.o.b. but felt the learning curve strain, and the stress of the pending cancer wouldn't allow me to continue.<br />
Since then I have had other job offers and opportunities to work other j.o.b.s. My dilemma is that I don't want to give up the possible freedom of being able to work my music business, and allowing me to make money as a musician.<br />
<br />
BUUUUUTTTT THEEEEENNNNN on the other hand, a good paying j.o.b. would bring financial relief to our home, and allow for us to do and have... and have and do.<br />
My pastor told me to take baby steps... but, baby steps into what??? my career or into a new j.o.b. I just don't know... hummmmm <br />
I think I should take a N.A.P!<br />
<br />
Diva M<div class="blogger-post-footer">http://www.reverbnation.com/maureenwashington
http://www.maureenwashington.ca
http://www.myspace.com/maureenwashington
http://www.myspace.com/maureenwashingtonchristmas
http://www.myspace.com/washingtoncooktrio</div>Diva Mhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10169161743627996365noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3637921849093024164.post-76968630725050233832010-02-06T23:12:00.001-08:002010-02-06T23:59:53.428-08:00Be the Grasshopper Let the Masters Teach!I'm on a new quest to learn and understand more of how to utilize the internet to promote myself as a musician. <br /><br />I have my website, facebook pages, twitter, utube, myspace(s), a couple other promotional sites and my favourite... my reverbnation site. <a href="http://www.reverbnation.com/maureenwashington">reverbnation/maureenwashignton</a><br />If I could encourage musicians with any of these sites, reverbnation would be my first choice to start. <br />On reverbnation, the features (which are free)are wonderful, super resourceful, and extremely user friendly. It is a musicians dream for a website as it helps promote your career allows you to network with musicians and fans, creates electronic press kits and it tracks everything that you do... instant resume. <br />I love their stats which keep track of each musician in the reverbnation world. Today I am #1 Locally, #1 Nationally and #29 Globally. My goal is to get into the top 25 global, which will be done by increasing fans, music plays, and communication with my fans.<br /><br />Much of what I have done via internet promotion has been trial and error and mostly just stumbling along.... <br />I've realized that I have stumbled on a couple of gold mines!! and in turn, I am enjoying little mini master classes with two wonderful people.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Derek Sivers</span> (founder of CD Baby)<a href="http://sivers.org/">http://sivers.org/</a> sign up to his blogs... they are crafted and inspiring. <br />Honestly just google his name and read, watch and learn anything that you can.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Ariel Hyatt</span> <a href="http://arielpublicity.com/">http://arielpublicity.com/</a><br />Sign up there, and then watch her many informative videos here <a href="http://www.youtube.com/user/ArielPublicity">http://www.youtube.com/user/ArielPublicity</a><br /><br />it's the age old saying... don't reinvent the wheel... just watch and learn how it is made and watch your career grow!<br /><br />Diva M<div class="blogger-post-footer">http://www.reverbnation.com/maureenwashington
http://www.maureenwashington.ca
http://www.myspace.com/maureenwashington
http://www.myspace.com/maureenwashingtonchristmas
http://www.myspace.com/washingtoncooktrio</div>Diva Mhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10169161743627996365noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3637921849093024164.post-74762801667525036772009-12-22T21:51:00.000-08:002009-12-22T22:17:56.439-08:00I'm baaaackYes, it's been what, two decades since I last wrote? Well time for a change and time to start blogging regularly. Apparently blogs are a good way to communicate and to help keep track of all the changes that happen in ones life. Yes, I knew that, as did you. But I wasn't keeping close tabs on all the thoughts and things I was doing.<br /><br />2009 has been a busy one for me, and here we are at the end of it.... whew... what happened to the time?<br /><br />This coming year is a time to focus on building my music career... yes Houston we can re-build it, er, should I say build it... we are not in a 're' mode yet.<br /><br />hummmm so what to do, where to start? I have no idea.<br /><br />I'm doing what I can to connect with other musicians to ask them (what works)questions and to figure out how to get my name out there.<br />for sites,I have my... <br />website <a href="http://maureenwashington.ca">maureenwashington.ca</a><br />reverbnation (which I love)<a href="http://reverbnation.com/maureenwashington">reverbnation.com/maureenwashington</a><br />facebook<br />facebook pages <a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/Maureen-Washington/23002468344">maureenwashington fbpages</a><br />blog (newly adding)<br />Youtube site <a href="http://www.youtube.com/user/maureenwashington">maureenwashington on youtube</a><br />CD Baby site <a href="http://www.cdbaby.com/Artist/MaureenWashington">maureen washington on CDBABY</a><br />4 MySpace site (only one listed)<a href="http://myspace.com/maureenwashington">maureen on myspace</a><br />Twitter <a href="http://twitter.com/mmwashington">Maureen on twitter </a><br />and a new one which I think would be a good place for me to try to connect called NUMUBU<br />The name is a bit odd, but it might be something to get involved in.<br /><br />The goal is to reach out to as many people as you can so that you build up fans.. and people who like your music and are willing to buy it....(that's another story)<br /><br />so what else is a girl to do to get her name out there in the Music world???<br /> <br />Diva M<div class="blogger-post-footer">http://www.reverbnation.com/maureenwashington
http://www.maureenwashington.ca
http://www.myspace.com/maureenwashington
http://www.myspace.com/maureenwashingtonchristmas
http://www.myspace.com/washingtoncooktrio</div>Diva Mhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10169161743627996365noreply@blogger.com0