I have recently joined a pretty cool website I want to tell you all about.
http://www.kompoz.com
It is a music collaboration site. You upload your projects onto the site, and anyone from anywhere can add to it with their own tracks. It's great!
Check out my first project:
http://www.kompoz.com/compose-collaborate/home.project?projectId=43621
I came up with an idea, and people are submitting to it, though I still need to add some more of my own stuff and kind of decide what direction I want to take it. It's really fun hearing different ideas on what to do, I am enjoying it!
And here is a project I collaborated on:
http://www.kompoz.com/compose-collaborate/home.track.project?trackId=294797
I love this one! You just gotta hear it! :-)
I would like to invite anyone and everyone to collaborate with me on this website!
Monday, December 23, 2013
Friday, October 25, 2013
Mixing Madness!
I have been having fun doing some recording and mixing! I am very inexperienced and am just trying it out and seeing where I decide to go with it.
Here are some samples of what I have been working on so far. I am sharing them via soundcloud because that is the simplest way I could figure out to do it. Click the links to hear the tracks!
The first masterpiece (not really, lol) is titled, "Huh? Oh!" It is based on a silly chant my sister and I came up with years ago to go along with a silly made up rap. This is a family "rap" (not sure what else to call it, lol).
1. "Huh? Oh!"
https://soundcloud.com/melanie-shumway-addington/huh-oh
Performers:
Erica Waltz (my Sister) = "Huh? Oh!"
Me = "What? I said, what?"/ Talking at the end
Suzanne Havens (my Mom) = "Hey, Come On!"
Eric (My 6 year old son) = Humming / "What? I said what?" later on in the song
The recording could have gone better, and this is my first attempt at mixing, so I am sure it could be improved. Unfortunately I made a few mistakes that I would have to go back and re-record to fix, which is difficult because we all live in 3 different states! Also, I am new to Garageband and not everything worked out exactly how I wanted.
But, I still think it's fun!!!
2. Blues Flute - Sample
https://soundcloud.com/melanie-shumway-addington/blues-flute-sample
This next recording is a sample of a mix I am working on in Garageband. It is not yet finished. It is all me on my flute, along with a drum loop from the Garageband loop library. I will eventually come up with a more original title, haha. I hope you enjoy it!
3. Women of Ireland - Sample
https://soundcloud.com/melanie-shumway-addington/women-of-ireland-sample
This is again all me on the flute. I am using the James Galway arrangement of this Irish classic, and adapting it for flutes alone (for now. I may change my mind later on). It is just a sample. I love this piece, it is such a gorgeous melody.
I just wanted to give you all an idea of what I am up to! There is more to come :-)
Here are some samples of what I have been working on so far. I am sharing them via soundcloud because that is the simplest way I could figure out to do it. Click the links to hear the tracks!
The first masterpiece (not really, lol) is titled, "Huh? Oh!" It is based on a silly chant my sister and I came up with years ago to go along with a silly made up rap. This is a family "rap" (not sure what else to call it, lol).
1. "Huh? Oh!"
https://soundcloud.com/melanie-shumway-addington/huh-oh
Performers:
Erica Waltz (my Sister) = "Huh? Oh!"
Me = "What? I said, what?"/ Talking at the end
Suzanne Havens (my Mom) = "Hey, Come On!"
Eric (My 6 year old son) = Humming / "What? I said what?" later on in the song
The recording could have gone better, and this is my first attempt at mixing, so I am sure it could be improved. Unfortunately I made a few mistakes that I would have to go back and re-record to fix, which is difficult because we all live in 3 different states! Also, I am new to Garageband and not everything worked out exactly how I wanted.
But, I still think it's fun!!!
2. Blues Flute - Sample
https://soundcloud.com/melanie-shumway-addington/blues-flute-sample
This next recording is a sample of a mix I am working on in Garageband. It is not yet finished. It is all me on my flute, along with a drum loop from the Garageband loop library. I will eventually come up with a more original title, haha. I hope you enjoy it!
3. Women of Ireland - Sample
https://soundcloud.com/melanie-shumway-addington/women-of-ireland-sample
This is again all me on the flute. I am using the James Galway arrangement of this Irish classic, and adapting it for flutes alone (for now. I may change my mind later on). It is just a sample. I love this piece, it is such a gorgeous melody.
I just wanted to give you all an idea of what I am up to! There is more to come :-)
Saturday, October 5, 2013
It Starts!
I finally got the very basics for my home recording studio! I bought the Focusrite Scarlett Studio, which contains the Scarlet 2i2 USB audio interface, studio headphones, a mic, and connectors. It also includes Cubase LE6 (recording/mixing software).
This is a very affordable way to get started recording, and works for both Mac and Windows. Working at Guitar Center, I was able to get some great advice from coworkers with extensive knowledge in this type of stuff. And, my employee discount made it even better!
This system is fabulous--through the interface I can record in real time with the music on my computer, there is no delay. The mic has a nice, crisp and clear sound. I played around with it today some, and I can't wait to explore more and find all the things I will be able to do!
I haven't started using Cubase yet, though it looks like a great program. I was just too excited to start recording--it took a couple hours for me to figure out how to install all of the drivers, register the product and software, etc....and by the time I finished I just decided to start using GarageBand. Eventually I will use it and will report my findings!
Watch out world, flute player Melanie has her own recording/mixing studio!
As soon as I finish creating my first "mix" I will post it. Until then, ciao!
Thursday, October 3, 2013
New Job!
Due to personal circumstances, I have decided to take a break from school. I don't know how long my break is going to be, I guess it depends on how some other things in my life go.
In the meantime I am focusing on some new and different things, and I am excited!
I have gotten a part time job at Guitar Center! I am working as a Customer Operations Associate. I am a flute player, so why would I be excited about a job at Guitar Center? I will tell you why!
It has been a lifelong dream of mine to have my own home recording studio. 10-15 years ago this seemed like nearly an impossible task, because of expenses involved, large mixing equipment needed, and lack of experience and knowledge. Well, ladies and gentlemen, times have changed. We are in the 21st century, and not only is equipment becoming more portable and affordable, but there is a wealth of knowledge online and in books, and affordable training programs. Once I got this job at Guitar Center, I finally decided I think it's about time I make my dream a reality!
Guitar Center sells more than guitars. They also sell electric pianos and keyboards, drums, DJ equipment, sheet music, and top of the line pro audio equipment.
I started this job about 3 weeks ago, and am very excited to be working with musicians and recording artists who have a wealth of knowledge in their fields. Guitar Center hires employees with extensive experience for their individual departments. Every day I go to work I am trying to learn a little more, and it is going a long way.
I finally have a good idea of the type of equipment I need for my desired purposes. I still need to do some more research and learn a little bit more, and once I know exactly what equipment I need I am going to make a budget, and do it! My goal is to get the best possible equipment for the price, and not to buy the cheapest equipment and software just to find out I need to upgrade later. So, I am in no rush, I am simply taking in all the knowledge I can so I can make an informed decision when the time comes.
In the meantime I am focusing on some new and different things, and I am excited!
I have gotten a part time job at Guitar Center! I am working as a Customer Operations Associate. I am a flute player, so why would I be excited about a job at Guitar Center? I will tell you why!
It has been a lifelong dream of mine to have my own home recording studio. 10-15 years ago this seemed like nearly an impossible task, because of expenses involved, large mixing equipment needed, and lack of experience and knowledge. Well, ladies and gentlemen, times have changed. We are in the 21st century, and not only is equipment becoming more portable and affordable, but there is a wealth of knowledge online and in books, and affordable training programs. Once I got this job at Guitar Center, I finally decided I think it's about time I make my dream a reality!
Guitar Center sells more than guitars. They also sell electric pianos and keyboards, drums, DJ equipment, sheet music, and top of the line pro audio equipment.
I started this job about 3 weeks ago, and am very excited to be working with musicians and recording artists who have a wealth of knowledge in their fields. Guitar Center hires employees with extensive experience for their individual departments. Every day I go to work I am trying to learn a little more, and it is going a long way.
I finally have a good idea of the type of equipment I need for my desired purposes. I still need to do some more research and learn a little bit more, and once I know exactly what equipment I need I am going to make a budget, and do it! My goal is to get the best possible equipment for the price, and not to buy the cheapest equipment and software just to find out I need to upgrade later. So, I am in no rush, I am simply taking in all the knowledge I can so I can make an informed decision when the time comes.
Saturday, August 31, 2013
My Junior Recital, April 13, 2013
I completed my Junior Recital on April 13th, 2013. I had been calling it my Senior Recital, since it was the only recital I was required to complete for my Music Education Degree.
****My Junior Recital****
April 13th at 2:00 PM
Here is the link to my Youtube channel, where you may view the videos of my recital:
http://www.youtube.com/channel/UCQhNGgC_-xtxA3S2KDSzyyQ
Inspirations
This recital was a very special event in my life, for many reasons.
First, I had an opportunity to perform with both of my parents in this recital!
Growing up, my parents' love and passion for music was the driving force behind my musical accomplishments. As children, my siblings and I were surrounded by beautiful music, in so many ways: Listening to classical and sacred music on Sunday mornings; hearing our Dad play Chopin and Bach on the piano and our Mom play Barber and Paganini on the violin for hours at a time; singing on the Church choir where my Mom was choir director and my Dad piano player; and so much more. We were given piano lessons and lessons on our individual instruments as we grew up, and were known as the "musical family" in our ward at church. My Dad would write arrangements for our family of various sacred and secular tunes and we would perform for church, talent shows, and family functions. My Dad would also accompany us on all of our musical events, competitions, etc. My Mom and I loved to play duets together on the flute and violin. Our extended family, on both sides, were also very musical, being filled with performers, college professors of music, and composers.
For my recital, my Dad was able to accompany me on the piano, and this was the first time we have had to opportunity to perform together for an audience in about 10 years! After I left Active Duty Army, my Dad had been living in China, and did not know when he would move back to the U.S., so I didn't know if I would get the chance to play with him at a University Recital. I've always loved playing with my Dad, because he is one of the most skilled and sensitive accompanists I have ever played with, and he is never afraid to give me advice to improve my musicality when I am playing. Also, since we are family, we have a unique ability to sense what the other is doing musically. This applies when I sing or play with anyone in my family.
I also had the opportunity to perform with my dear Mother for this recital. My mother has such a beautiful, rich tone on the violin, her passion for music has been such an inspiration to me in my life. We have always loved to play duets together, and even though my Mom hadn't performed for a long time, and we only got to have one rehearsal together, she still agreed to do it, and it meant the world to me.
Special Thanks
****My Junior Recital****
April 13th at 2:00 PM
Dumke Recital Hall
University of Utah
Here is the link to my Youtube channel, where you may view the videos of my recital:
http://www.youtube.com/channel/UCQhNGgC_-xtxA3S2KDSzyyQ
I didn't know how to separate the videos from the others I have on my channels, but here are the pieces that were performed (Each movement of each pieces has its own video):
Program
Syrinx for flute alone Claude Debussy (1862-1918)
Flute Sonata in E Major, BWV 1035 J.S.
Bach
I. Adagio ma nontanto
II.
Allegro
III.
Siciliano
IV.
Allegro assai
Andante et Rondo, Op. 25 for two flutes and piano
Franz Doppler (1821-1883)
II. Rondo
Melanie Addington
– Flute
Dallan Gordon –
Flute
Daniel Shumway –
Piano
La Tourterelle Op. 119 for piccolo and piano Eugene
Damare
Sonata for Flute and Piano Op. 23 Lowell Liebermann
I. Lento con rubato
II.
Presto energico
Ashokan Farewell Jay
Ungar
Arranged by: James Galway and Phil Coulter
Melanie Addington
– Flute
Suzanne Havens –
Violin
Daniel Shumway –
Piano
Inspirations
This recital was a very special event in my life, for many reasons.
First, I had an opportunity to perform with both of my parents in this recital!
Growing up, my parents' love and passion for music was the driving force behind my musical accomplishments. As children, my siblings and I were surrounded by beautiful music, in so many ways: Listening to classical and sacred music on Sunday mornings; hearing our Dad play Chopin and Bach on the piano and our Mom play Barber and Paganini on the violin for hours at a time; singing on the Church choir where my Mom was choir director and my Dad piano player; and so much more. We were given piano lessons and lessons on our individual instruments as we grew up, and were known as the "musical family" in our ward at church. My Dad would write arrangements for our family of various sacred and secular tunes and we would perform for church, talent shows, and family functions. My Dad would also accompany us on all of our musical events, competitions, etc. My Mom and I loved to play duets together on the flute and violin. Our extended family, on both sides, were also very musical, being filled with performers, college professors of music, and composers.
For my recital, my Dad was able to accompany me on the piano, and this was the first time we have had to opportunity to perform together for an audience in about 10 years! After I left Active Duty Army, my Dad had been living in China, and did not know when he would move back to the U.S., so I didn't know if I would get the chance to play with him at a University Recital. I've always loved playing with my Dad, because he is one of the most skilled and sensitive accompanists I have ever played with, and he is never afraid to give me advice to improve my musicality when I am playing. Also, since we are family, we have a unique ability to sense what the other is doing musically. This applies when I sing or play with anyone in my family.
I also had the opportunity to perform with my dear Mother for this recital. My mother has such a beautiful, rich tone on the violin, her passion for music has been such an inspiration to me in my life. We have always loved to play duets together, and even though my Mom hadn't performed for a long time, and we only got to have one rehearsal together, she still agreed to do it, and it meant the world to me.
Special Thanks
I could never have accomplished this recital without all of
the amazing support I have received.
The list is endless, but just to name a few, I would like to
express my gratitude to:
The University of Utah, especially the School of Music, for
the wonderful learning institution it is, and providing the facilities to hold
this recital.
All of my Professors and mentors, for the tools you have
given me that will help me become a better musician, teacher, and person
(Especially: Tiffany Sedgley, Dr. Ely, Dr. Baldwin, and Dr. Napoles)
My dear friends and colleagues, near and far, who have
always believed in me and supported me.
Dallan Gordon, my
friend and one of the best musicians and players I have ever known. Thanks for
all you have done for me, and thanks for playing with me in this recital!
Lisa Byrnes, my private flute instructor for my first two years at the U, who gave such a great start at the U, and gave me so many valuable tools and skills that helped me to be where I am today.
Caitlyn Valovick Moore, my private flute instructor for the last 2 years, who helped me prepare for this recital. She encouraged me, set high expectations, and helped me grow in so many ways as a player and a musician.
My Husband, Dave, who is always by my side, supporting me
with strong hands and a gentle heart. With Dave, I feel like I can accomplish
anything. I love you, Sweetheart.
My Family: My siblings, grandparents, aunts, uncles, and
cousins, who have always cheered me on and been my biggest fans.
My Mother (Suzanne Faerber Havens), whose love and passion
for music have influenced me throughout my life, and who made sure I could have
instruments and private lesson, and has never stopped supporting me in my
music. Mom, you have been such an inspriration to me, and I am so grateful for
all you have done for me, and all of the support you have given me throughout
the years, I am so glad I got to play
with you in this recital, it meant the world to me.
My Father (Daniel T. Shumway), who has exposed me to
beautiful music since childhood, who supported me and played the piano for me
for so many years. Thanks for all the work you put into preparing for this
recital with me. I am so glad with got to play in this recital together, it
meant so much to me. I appreciate all you do.
Lastly, I want to thank the Lord, for the musical talents He
has given me and my family. It has brought so much joy to my life, and blessed
me in so many ways. I hope I can use this gift to help others feel this same
joy.
A New Chapter (as of June 2013)
I moved to Summerlin, Las Vegas, NV, on May 17th, 2013.
This move is something new and different for me. I have moved many times due to the military, but this move was for my husband's job. I am going to do my best to make the most of it!
I am considering this move as a new chapter in my life. I have so many things I want to do with my music, and I won't be able to accomplish all I want to unless I seek out opportunities for myself, step out of my comfort zone, and do it!
Here is a list of my goals and desires regarding my music career. I may not be able to accomplish everything, and certainly not in a short amount of time, so I am going to prioritize my list to decide how I am going to begin.
- Make an academic plan to finish my music degree at UNLV
- Become involved in the local flute community
- Join the Las Vegas Flute Club
- Prepare myself to start teaching flute lessons again by doing the following:
- Assess my flute repertoire and method books, then look online and go to local music stores to make a compilation of my favorite method books and flute repertoire for teaching.
- Assess the various training aids available (Bo Pep, etc)
- Get all my favorite recordings together. Give students copies, or just recommendations? Decide.
- Study more on teaching techniques for the flute, focusing on the following:
- Flute maintenance and materials needed. Make a handout for students
- Breathing
- Making a Tone: Embouchure and Aperture
- Tone Development
- Vibrato (When to begin teaching?)
- Playing position and posture
- Practice techniques, how much to practice/Make practice charts
- Performance etiquette
- Increase my own flute techniques by taking lessons as soon as possible
- Study modern flute techniques
- Study Jazz, Irish, and Japanese flute (if I ever get the opportunity!)
- Seek performance opportunities (local groups, events, musicals, competitions, etc)
- Get the basic equipment needed for recording. Research required
- iMac computer
- Microphone
- Study some of the current technology available that can assist in teaching and performing
- Gather recordings of concerts from University of Utah
- Upload recordings of concerts onto blog, Youtube, and backup onto discs and cloud drive
- Find means of converting old audio and video tapes to digital
These are my goals and my desires. I writing this list so that I can have it written down in one place, track my progress, and record my experiences and learnings.
Monday, June 3, 2013
Progress
As I have been getting settled in our new home, I have been taking some steps to start accomplishing some of my goals (see mt home page for a full list).
GOAL #1: Make an academic plan to finish my degree.
I had an appointment with the Music Adviser at UNLV.
Long story short, I am waiting to find out which classes will "officially" transfer (which is looking VERY good), and I have figured out that it will probably take 2 years for me to complete a Music Education degree, and possibly 1 to 1.5 years to complete a Performance degree.
Taking into account where I want my musical career to go, I am seriously considering switching to a Flute Performance Degree. This way, I can focus all of my study on the flute, and be a private flute teacher, which is what I really want to do. I can always get an Education degree later if I decide to do so!
GOAL #3: Prepare myself to begin teaching flute lessons again.
Getting as degree in Performance will help me toward this goal.
GOAL #10: Find a means of converting old audio and video tapes to digital format.
I have signed up for a class called "Transferring Sound from Analog to Digital" at the West Las Vegas Arts Center. The class begins this Wednesday, and I am very excited!
GOAL #1: Make an academic plan to finish my degree.
I had an appointment with the Music Adviser at UNLV.
Long story short, I am waiting to find out which classes will "officially" transfer (which is looking VERY good), and I have figured out that it will probably take 2 years for me to complete a Music Education degree, and possibly 1 to 1.5 years to complete a Performance degree.
Taking into account where I want my musical career to go, I am seriously considering switching to a Flute Performance Degree. This way, I can focus all of my study on the flute, and be a private flute teacher, which is what I really want to do. I can always get an Education degree later if I decide to do so!
GOAL #3: Prepare myself to begin teaching flute lessons again.
Getting as degree in Performance will help me toward this goal.
GOAL #10: Find a means of converting old audio and video tapes to digital format.
I have signed up for a class called "Transferring Sound from Analog to Digital" at the West Las Vegas Arts Center. The class begins this Wednesday, and I am very excited!
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