Hey Casey,
Pity we didn't get to chat a bit more - next time.
Best thing you learned?
Hard to say exactly, but I feel I got some really good nuggets specific to my situation and approach at the Mentoring Lunches. I've yet to scour all my notes. When I get back to Ireland I'll be implementing everything. One that comes to mind is for people operating in different genres - there seemed to be some consensus (not 100%) on jack-of-all-trades guys being less attractive for placements than actual bands with backstories etc - that's something I had worried about and I think its very interesting and understandable perhaps. It presents problems - but also work-arounds of course
Best takeaway?
New friends, and possible collabs. I left the towels alone - I didn't have room in my suitcase
Best experience(s)?
I can't lie - it was Adam Zelkind and the attendees enjoying my music. I was almost shaking when it was picked out. That gives me confidence that I need badly.
Apart from that, I did get a lot out of the classes, but enjoying the company of kindred souls and finally meeting forum buds was so, so great.
Best class or panel?
Loved Ronan Chris Murphy's bubbly and insightful classes. Enjoyed Fett's too. Was kicking myself I didn't put in a CD for the Ballroom panel shows too - how cool it was to see so many Taxi members having success with theirs. Also, Adam Zelkind's class was great. I spoke to him and Bianca for a while afterwards, which almost resulted in me attending the AFM gig in Santa Monica but unfortunately I couldn't swing it. I told them I'd be sending them adoption papers ASAP.
Best new (professional or peer) relationship? (No actual library/publisher/sup names please)
Couldn't say right now - time will tell - though I have some good feelings about some particular songwriting connections and wil get down to contacting some of the library guys in due course. I need to devote more time to songs - and I will now.
Most fun?
John 'The Boy' Lewitt if we're talking about Taxi members. Sorry everyone but John you are a riot - I was expecting a reasonably straight-laced Canadian for some reason. Got that one wrong
eh??
Fett, Chris Murphy and Zelkind were very naturally funny guys.
Every day was immense fun. Definitely longer nights than I imagined. But I'm Irish so that comes naturally for better or worse.
Nice to meet Michael too and give thanks.