How Many Perform?

[stevev]

Just wondering....how many of you perform as well as write? Do you find it helps your writing? Do you get mixed signals from what listeners (not Mom!) think of your stuff as opposed to what the Taxi screeners think?Just wondering....Steve V

[hummingbird]

Quote:Just wondering....how many of you perform as well as write? Do you find it helps your writing? Do you get mixed signals from what listeners (not Mom!) think of your stuff as opposed to what the Taxi screeners think?Just wondering....Steve VYes, I perform as well as write. Does performing help your writing? To some extent, I think so. Do I get mixed signals from listeners & Taxi screeners? No, because they are two different things. Listeners just want to enjoy themselves being in the music. Taxi screeners expect targetted, well composed submissions that meet a professional standard of excellence.

[arkjack]

I play a lot of my originals at open mics mixed in with covers. I would say that the feedback is pretty nil. I can get an applause, but rarely if ever does anyone come up and comment about the song I wrote. I keep that tucked in the back of my mind, since the screeners often talk about watching how your songs work live and its a good barometer. So if no one comes up to comment I figure the song is only great, but not amazing. When someone comes up and says they listened, and liked the song (or even stronger reaction) then I know I've got something to work with and submit and shop around hard for its best home.ArkJack

[stevev]

I perform quite a lot and have been lucky enough to have people comment on specific songs quite often. That means a lot to me, because most of what I write would probably not be considered mainstream.I also value the opinion of listeners. While wanting to enjoy themselves in the music, I think most folks know good songs and what connects with them. I think if you're connection with your listeners, if your targeting the right listings, you'll eventually connect with Taxi. (As a newbie, I haven't had that honor yet - we'll find out soon!)Steve V

[kg]

I perform as well. I agree with what Vikki says when she points out that they are two different things. I look for professional feedback if/when I'm struggling with something, but after this much time writing, I know if I've got a soid base to work with or not, so I look for comments on things I haven't already pinpointed myself. My listeners outside of professional critiques are generally fans, so it's definitely a different type of feedback if any. When a screaming 12 year-old is like OMG, I "heart" (fill in the blank), that's not gonna help so much with the feedback on recording LOL. The feedback I look for from a live performance is the facial expressions/energy of the room and of course the CD sales after we're done which is always a solid indicator as to whether or not I've done my job

[timbehrens]

I play out here and there, both solo and with a band. I occasionally will meet someone (usually a fellow musician) who will offer creative/constructive criticism after a show, but more generally it's folks just expressing their appreciation. I think one benefit of playing out, for me, is that there is a great joy and energy that comes from being able to share music with others. I do some of my best writing after a night playing out. It always reaffirms for me why I keep striving, working... because, ultimately, music is my favorite way to share and communicate with the world around me.

[diogenes]

I make my living by playing live. 1-3 nights per week as an acoustic duo. (myself on guitar and vocals accompanied by a percussionast). I don't know that it helps my writing, but playing great songs by other artist certainly can't hurt I wouldn't think. I always tell my drummer that I sure hope a little "Dancing in the Dark" or "I guess thats why they call it the blues" is rubbing off on me somehow! With regards to the originals I do work up versions to play in that setting, but most of my stuff is fairly produced, so it's hard to convey it as a duo. Anyhow, to answer your question about mixed signals I find people are largely indifferent, though I do sale CD's at shows. However, the screeners are coming from an entirely different place than your average bar patron, so thats a bit apples and oranges I'd say. Just my 2 cents

[byllsong]

HiI used to perform when I was younger. These days I play with my wife's husband and my son's father. We all get along well. They usually see things my way and they're always available when I need the practice or record. I play fret boards and keyboards. I have my little set up in the corner. When I get writer's block, I usually listen to Internet Radio and just scan several stations...mostly music from the 60's. Pretty soon something opens up. Most of the musician I knew are wasted or gone . Sometimes I think about how it used to be and I smile...then I remember why I left to be on my own.Life goes on. Billy