Reviews for Kid Pan Alley (2)

In the weeks since Song School I have been talking, thinking, and above all, writing --yes, everyday, every morning-- about what it was that made this experience so extraordinary for so many. I have heard quoted phases like "the best 5 days of my life," and "Song School changed my life."
Granted, not everyone may have been moved in this way, but amazingly, miraculously, many of us obviously were. A love for music and storytelling is something in which we were all clearly bonded. Honoring the creative moment as an act of love, whether in the case of creating something new, or in active listening, was a major chord in which we all could resonant. However I am utterly convinced that the joy which sang forth from that place and time had to do with much more than good lyrics and a decent melody. What that something was, that could bring so much joy to so many, I am still trying to understand. I may spend the rest of my life in trying to better understand and explain this. It is my hope that I may continue to propagate, reflect and refract, in some small way, that light which shined, and shines still. It dances on high, in the music which we play, the stories that we tell, and in the simple joy we gratefully share. Every step, A dance ~ Lawrence Meredith

I'm 58 and started writing songs a year and a half ago. I have been to two song schools. I took your directed writing class last year. It was exactly what I needed and even though I butchered the performance of my song, that really got me to go out and play at other places to try to learn how to do better. I write by ear because I have no other choice and if my ear doesn't match the chords I know, I'm stuck. So your harmony and chord substitution class has opened up a whole new world. I'm not there yet of course but just knowing how to tie chord changes to melody is wonderful. I'm already looking forward to next year.
I also appreciate your sincere interest in us and teaching even though I'm sure it was a difficult time for you. Your heart comes through as clearly as your knowledge. Thank you