As summer is upon us, I have been asked to perform in “The Other Ear,” a band which was formed several years ago with our last gig played at “The Nines,” a college town bar located in Ithaca, NY. The original Composer/Singer/Guitarist, Ben Fambrough, relocated out-of-state and life moved on. The beginning of this project has turned into two gigs which will be held on Friday, July 21, 2017 at 8:00 pm at The Cyber Cafe’ West in Binghamton, NY and Saturday, July 22, 2017 at 8:00 pm at The Ransom Steele Tavern in Apalachin, NY.
The band began as “The Big Ear” with Ben Fambrough, Composer, Guitar, Lead Vocals; Chuck Kozlowski, Drums/Percussion, Back-up Vocals; and Chris Carlsen, Bass and Vocals. As many musicians know, a three-piece band is wonderful but requires additional fill-in music to allow for varied expression within the context of the song (of course unless you are a RUSH fan)!
“Peanuts” Charles M. Schulz
So then I was asked to play keyboards and hence “The Other Ear” was formed! Being classically trained, this was quite a new experience in music playing, listening and expression – to say the least! As well as a patience-builder for all involved who play ‘by ear.’ My beginning piano playing involved sight reading to the max which includes such repertoire as Beethoven’s Sonata Pathetique’ – certainly not a piece one learns to play ‘by ear’ with as many notes as possible crammed into one measure!
“Peanuts” Charles M. Schulz
So as I have been somewhat absent from my blogging this past month, it has been due to time spent practicing songs in preparation for the two upcoming gigs this weekend! My thanks to all the other band members for their support with my learning curve from Classical to Rock! Most of the songs are originals written by Ben, with some covers thrown in by Phish (Dirt), Talking Heads (Cities), Medeski, Martin & Wood (Think) and of course, the timeless Beatles (Prudence).
“Peanuts” Charles M. Schulz
Below are a few links to some of the music. Enjoy!
