Tamra Engle

The view inside your fish tank

2010-08-31T14:54:00.000-07:00

Greetings everyone.

At this writing, I seem to be entering a new chapter in my life. My partner and I are faced sadly with the unenviable position of saying goodbye to "our kids". We are "parents" to two 12 year old's Sable & Minx (our dog and cat) arrived in the same barn, and traveled several hours to our home, and hearts 12 years ago, and have decided they together have more work to do elsewhere.... without us.

This has caused us to really look closely at our lives and how dependent upon them we have become, facing the world without our most "trusted companions" some days really seems unfathomable. It's during these major life changes that I find myself really looking at "my view of the world" and how it is so easy to create habits and routines that often "limit our worlds" which has a direct impact on our piece of the world and how we live in it.

If you find your world has become very small, read on....

The view inside the fish tank

As we have all lived life, our experiences, parental values influences, and socio-economic status have all shaped how we view “our” worlds. Living day to day, we acquire routines, rituals, and ruts that may be really limiting the size of our world and what we can do.

Much like a fish in an aquarium, all the water & tank represent your surroundings, how you live, others in your life, your routines, your wasted time all-swirling about.

In an Aquarium when a fish gets sick, you must treat the whole tank to save the fish, this means cleansing the water, dumping all the pollutants in the environment.

How is being this fish in a tank any different than you and me?

Take a real close look at your surroundings. Is this environment working for you? Or are things around polluting your heart, your mind, your spirit, and limiting your view of the outside world?

Much like the built up algae that appears on the walls of the tank obstructing our broader view of the world…. Do you need to cleanse your tank? & Get rid of the stuff that is polluting your world?

That may include the people you hang around. Business coach Jim Roan is quoted as saying “your income will become on average the same as 5 people you choose to hang around most.

Who are you associating with on a daily basis? Do you go to a job where you work in an environment where you are not respected? Your not encouraged to grow in a healthy balanced way. In your work and social circles you need to associate with individuals that have a higher degree of success, and learn success habits from THEM. Then a shift occurs in mindset and how you view your world.

I'm not suggesting you be something or someone your not, rather, reaching out to attain your purpose and full potential! (not what someone ELSE has dictated you "should" or "must do" to be successful).

Suddenly, you will act and feel differently. You will begin to see a world in a positive light as a successful person.

You can see OUT to a MUCH bigger world that you couldn’t see before. you may feel overwhelmed or frightened by this. This is completely normal. If your reading this, you have access to tools and guidance available to help you unlearn the old habits, and help guide you toward organized, productive time management, and creating a way of life that incorporates balance, and doing what you love for a living wage. Isn't it time that you not let fear and other people's expectations STOP YOU ?

Bird in the Tree: Artist Interview: Tamra Engle's Vision for Action

2010-08-24T17:47:00.000-07:00

Bird in the Tree: Artist Interview: Tamra Engle's Vision for Action: "I met Tamra Engle after seeing she was teaching songwriting in Berkeley. I soon found out she was not only a teacher, but a powerhouse of a ..."

TAMRA ENGLE- Business Strategist-BLOG: The business of being a artist

2010-08-19T12:50:00.000-07:00

TAMRA ENGLE- Business Strategist-BLOG: The business of being a artist: "Have you stepped back and taken a look at your looked at your art AS a business? If you don’t have a “business background” or know where t..."

The business of being a artist

2010-08-19T12:47:00.000-07:00

Have you stepped back and taken a look at your looked at your art AS a business?

If you don’t have a “business background” or know where to begin, or you feel business and art have nothing to do with one another, you may not have done this.

If this is the case, how is this working for you?

Are you happy with where you are professionally as a artist? Probably not,

It's ok- you one of hundreds of thousands who are not getting what they want from their creative pursuits, and as a result are not able to make a living wage doing what they love.

You realize you can do something to change that?

Let's back up and start at the very beginning to do a little “check up” to see if you are ready to start a business?

Answer yes or no to the following questions:

1. Do you think your ready to start a business?

2. Have you ever worked IN a business similar to what you are planning?

3. Would people say you are well suited to be self employed?

4. Do you have support from your family & friends?

5. Do you consider yourself a leader and self starter?

6. Would OTHER people consider you a leader or self starter?

7. Are you willing to invest a significant portion of your savings or net worth to get your business started?

8. Are you prepared if needed to temporarily lower your standards of living for a couple of years until your business is firmly established?

9. Are you willing to commit long hours to make your business work?

10. Have you ever written a business plan?

If you answered NO to more than 3 of these questions then perhaps the making a living as a self employed artist isn’t something you are suited for- and you can continue to languish in obscurity.

If you answered yes to many of the questions, and want to take steps to change the trajectory of your artistic career, then re-framing how you view your music, as a BUSINESS and creating a business structure around it will insure you have more success.

The degree of your success depends entirely upon you having a GREAT product, GREAT plan, & lots of hard work on creating a foundational plan to build your career upon.

I have listed these items in the order they should be addressed each step is dependent upon the next to be successful

CREATING YOUR ARTISTIC IDENTITY:

This will help you distill and clarify what it is your doing, what space your competing in, what value you are providing your audience, & why they should care about what your doing.

A PROFESSIONALLY WRITTEN BIO:

When you write your own bio, you know it, and so does everyone reading it.

The information you provide your readers is vital to them understanding who you are- Listing the unique facts about you, relevant experience, and phrasing it in a clear concise way that compels the reader to want to know more about you

Carefully cultivating the unique qualities that make you different than everyone else.

YOUR PLAN:

Every SUCCESSFUL business has a plan-& goals. It doesn’t matter if you are the only person in the business you still need a roadmap detailing what your business does, what direction your headed in, who your customers are and what core values are important to you and guide you.

BUSINESS CARDS:

This simple tool is often over looked- and a key tool to show that your serious about what you do. Often I get a card and find it is missing a website, or email address, last week at a conference I got a card that just had a name on it. that's it. I nearly tossed the card, then I googled the name thinking ah a clever ploy to get me to the artist website. NOTHING, not even a facebook page. I tossed the card, and that artist probably doesn't realize how many opportunities that have been missed by trying to be cool and different. Clearly missed the target.

Use a standard sized card- if it doesnt fit in a wallet it will get tossed or annoy people that it wont fit in their wallet.

Print on ONE SIDE, on a NON GLOSSY card, when people who care about you get your card, & if they want to make a note about you on the back of the card, for possible follow up. They can’t if the card is two sided or glossy.

Include: NAME PHONE # EMAIL WEBSITE ADDY & your ARTISTIC TAG LINE

(the tag line comes from your work on your artist id)

You can order great cards from http://www.printsmadeeasy.com/

A SMART PHONE:

If you are not easily accessable, you will miss opportunities and not even know it. A prospective client talking with you, hearing beeps and clicks as you hit the keypad, and then dead air because you hung up on them.

With today’s technology you need access to your phone calls, & emails-and RESPOND to requests within 1 business day unless you are "out of the office" then you have a message indicating that you will be returning on a specific date and will be returning messages THEN.

At this writing Whether you are with ATT or Verizon get either a iPhone or a Droid- they both run multiple apps are dependable (as much as the two largest wireless providers can be). And most importantly they make you available to do business. Do not mess with bargin brand phone service, or pay as you go services- You get to WRITE OFF this expense when you do your taxes. YOU CAN"T AFFORD NOT TO HAVE ONE. Do not short change yourself, in having a key communication tool available.

The bottom line is, You never get a 2^nd chance to make a 1^st impression- by having the correct BASIC tools, shows the outside world you are:

- Organized

- Open for business

- Have a Plan

- Serious about your career

If your potential customers or fans are unsure about you or the service you offer they WILL NOT BUY your products, it is up to you to clarify and make it easy for them

If you need help getting organized, clarified, and realize the success you imagine, contact me I can help you put the correct pieces in place for YOU to make a powerful impression on your prospective fans, business partners & investors.

In teaching you how to succeed these tools can be used in ALL areas of your life, it happened for me, it's happened for my clients, it can happen for you. It just takes the acknowledgement that you want to, and are ready to make a positive difference in your life.

Tamra Engle is a performing songwriter and business strategist who offers business solutions for creative minds to help them succeed in the evolving music and entertainment industries. As a performing singer-songwriter, she has worked as a studio musician in Los Angeles; toured the U.S. and enjoyed the placement of her songs on television and nationally aired commercials. Her recent album was on the final round ballot for the 2008 Grammy's in the Best Contemporary Folk Album category.

PASSION PROJECTS:

Helping others achieve success doing what they love.

Insuring music education remains accessible to school age children.

Ending Violence against Women & Children.

Reef Preservation/Restoration

Deep Sea Diving

Ref: http://web.SBA.gov

http://www.tamraengle.com

Discovering your purpose

2010-08-06T11:42:00.000-07:00

One of the greatest gifts my parents gave me was the love of books, and the desire to do anything I set my mind to.
(as long as I had a plan to do it right).

I have conversations with friends and collegues everyday who are frustrated with being stuck and simply not knowing how to be able to make a living doing what they love.
Many of us spend our lives endlessly searching for the quick fix to fill us. I know I spent years, focusing on making money because that's what I thought, and was told, was the important thing to focus on. Yes, the great green does provide us with the "comfort" of having "things" around us, it doesn't really quench our thirst for fullfillment to do what WE love.

I know I have been given blessing to search and seek what I love. For me, it took a huge life changing moment to stop me to acknowledge what I had known deep in my heart, that I was chasing the wrong thing for the wrong reason.

So I set forth to follow my calling, and part of my work is to share this with others, and help others "discover their calling" then, drop by drop our little pool grows into a great ocean of fulfillment.

We spend our lives seeking to feed 3 hungers:

1) To connect w/ the creative spirit of life: At some point we become aware of the creative energy all around us.

2) To know and express your gifts: Everyone contains some unique talent(s) some discovered some yet to be discovered- for the undiscovered many seek fulfillment in countless ways,
the fastest cars, the biggest house, affairs, addictions, distractions from the day to day constantly searching for "IT". Many spend their lifetimes looking for the thing that will provided the fulfillment they seek.

3)To know our lives matter: Each of us wants to know that we will leave behind a reminder of their existence, a impression that we have left for others to see and experience after we have left.

Fulfillment is achieved by feeding all 3 of these hungers- we can make alot of money, have fame, but success w/out fulfillment means you are not feeding all 3 hungers!

DISCOVERY
First start with yourself- not the external demands put upon you or the situation.

Then, discover what makes you unique? Where do you find your joy and passion? When you connect with your passion your chances of success are HUGE.

Finally find peace / solitude- The greatest gift you can give yourself is a quiet space, maybe it is a favorite hiking path, a favorite rock to stare out on the city, ocean or open space. maybe a sunny corner of your favorite room. If this solitude place is someplace that takes time to get to, then create a space where you can find a similar peace of mind.
A client of mine, used posters, colors, and a ipod to replicate the beach in her urban space. This quiet place will help you deal with the starting w/ yourself, uniqueness, discovering where you find joy and connecting. Your imagination is a powerful, and FREE tool you can use anytime everyday!

WHATS YOUR ANSWER?

What is your ideal of "living the good life"? In today's society we are consumers, we focus on "things" the kind of car we drive, the designer clothing we wear, the cool new gadget everyone has, the neighborhood we live in. Distill things to these elements:
Living in a place that you feel you belong, with people your love and in relationships that work (including the relationship with yourself). Having the right work. When you focus on something you believe in with your heart & soul in a environment that represents who your are, and doing the tasks w/ purpose you have suddenly found the meaning for yourself, rather than trying to be something to everyone else.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Tamra Engle is a performing songwriter and business strategist who offers business solutions for creative minds to help them succeed in the evolving music and entertainment industries. As a performing singer-songwriter she has worked as a studio musician in Los Angeles; toured the U.S. and enjoyed the placement of her songs on television and nationally aired commercials. Her recent album was on the final round ballot for the 2008 Grammy's in the Best Contemporary Folk Album category.

PASSION PROJECTS:

Helping others achieve success doing what they love.
Insuring music education remains accessible to school age children.
Ending Violence against Women & Children.
Reef Preservation/Restoration
Deep Sea Diving

References:

Richard Leider- The Power of Purpose
as recommended by Robert Temple
http://www.roberttemplemusic.com

NETWORKING AT A BUSINESS CONFERENCE:

2010-07-22T11:14:00.000-07:00

You are excited to be attending a big conference-

Learning tricks of the trade, and meeting new people to your network.

After dishing out a registration fee, made travel plans, and possibly a hotel or lodging expenses- You want to make the best of your conference experience so you earn back the money you invested in simply attending the conference.

Ask yourself- how much new business did your career get from the last conference you attended?

If you don't know or you know you DIDN'T get anything from that investment

here are a few tips to insure your conference experience is the best possible:

Bring Along Your Business Cards

1) This is the one tool that will connect you with people- you should include contact information, such as a phone number, email and mailing address.

2) Choose a design that is professional- SIMPLE one sided, odd sized and NOT glossy-*you can’t write on a glossy card.

3) Get an email address that is not too personal or gimmicky.it's better to conduct your business emails through an address that is formatted similarly to the industry standard, such as "first firstnamelastname@domain.com." Services like Gmail offers a great free email account that has a pretty good spam catcher- and flexibility.

4) Have your cards printed professionally. Remember you never get a 2^nd chance to make a first impression and you can buy professionally printed cards for as little as $14.00.

You should choose a good-quality card stock (remember no glossy cards) for printing and be sure to double-check your card for errors before and after printing. I recommend Psprint.com, or PrintsMadeEasy.com

WRITE A ELEVATOR PITCH / INTRO STATEMENT:

THIS is what separates YOU from everyone else at the conference.

1) Compose an "elevator pitch / into statement" to use when you meet new people at the conference.

2) Include information such as your name, concisely describe what you do (something more descriptive than “I am a singer” or “I am a songwriter” this doesn’t explain who/what you do and what you need or are looking for while attending the conference). This speech can be geared towards different contingencies, such as one for meeting the decision makers another for meeting individuals who might be interested in sharing contacts.

3) Keep it brief. Your elevator pitch / intro statement should last no more than 30 seconds.

4) Practice your speech before you get to the conference. Use a friend as a Guinea pig. Watch their reactions to gauge the effectiveness of your speech, altering it to fit your purposes.

5) Attend sessions at which you can network easily with others, such as mixers or breakfast events, and use your elevator speech as an icebreaker.

6) More important than giving out the cards is GETTING cards from your prospective new partners so YOU have THEIR contact info. WRITE DOWN info on the back of their card that will help you remember who they are and what key points you discussed (something brief to jog your memory later after you have talked to 150 people!)

FOLLOW UP W/ THE CONTACTS YOU HAVE MADE.

This step is often neglected and a main reason you attended the conference-

1) Get in touch with your contacts directly following the conference using a short email. Reiterate your pleasure at meeting them and follow up on any conversations you may have had. MAKE SURE you have included links to your website & appropriate social media sites if you need to direct them to the content you want them to see or hear.

2) Send a handwritten thank-you note to anyone in your new network that may have supplied you with additional assistance.

DO YOU NEED HELP?

Creating you pitch and to professionally pitch and present yourself like anything else requires refinement and practice, If you are not cultivating good leads, or getting work following attending events let me help you! “Providing business solutions for creative minds” so YOU can succeed in the evolving art / entertainment business community- I look forward to assisting you with growing your career and having success.

Individuals interested in making a difference in their lives and careers may contact Tamra at: guitartam@gmail.com

Are YOU the next American Idol?

2010-07-19T09:41:00.000-07:00

American Idol Registration for Season 10 is being held in SF on August 17-18w/ auditions scheduled on August 19th @ ATT Park-

Season 9 finalists Adam Lambert & Alison Iraheta both got their start at the SF Audition’s last season-

If you are 28 years of age or younger and a unsigned artist; you MUST have a plan, and air tight audition prepared to help guarentee a successful audition.

*Show FAQ’s and information are listed on: americanidol.com/auditions

What are the secrets to getting past the initial round of auditions and onto the show?

-Capturing a unique “star power”

-WINNING over the SCREENERS

-GET in front of the judges and through to the audition.

To do this correctly requires understanding the A.I. Audition process, preparation, lots of stamina, good humor, And sticking to your plan.

Key area’s I can assist you with:

1) Preparing for the screening and interviews before the audition

2) What to wear

3) Selecting the right song to audition with

4) Preparing for your performance mentally, physically, and spiritually

5) Preparing your voice

6) Rehearsing w/ Accompaniment

7) Rehearsing on key consistently w/o accompaniment

8) Video Performance Coaching

9) Understanding the process from start to finish

10) The 3 P's- Stage Patter / Performance / Perfection

In each city there are thousands that vie for a audition spot before the judges only about 100-200 make it to the judges evaluation from there only 10-30 from each city to actually make it to the Hollywood audition.

If you think you are the next American Idol? You can prepare yourself for success with the proper guidance, practice, and coaching.

If your interested in gaining every advantage to have a great audition, I have coached and prepared artists for showcase opportunities for SXSW, Folk Alliance, ASCAP AWARDS, GRAMMY’S & More…. contact me to help!

BIO

Tamra Engle is a performing songwriter, musician and consultant who offers strategic business solutions for creative minds to help them succeed in the evolving music and entertainment industries.

As a performing singer-songwriter whose recent album was on the final round ballot for the 2008 Grammy's in the Best Contemporary Folk Album category.

Tamra began her entertainment career as a studio musician In Los Angeles, Toured Nationally, and enjoyed placement of her songs on television and nationally aired ad campaigns.

PASSION PROJECTS:

-Helping others achieve success doing what they love.

 - Insuring music education remains accessable to school age children.

 - Ending Violence against Women & Children.

Individuals interested in making a difference in their lives and careers may contact Tamra at her website at www.tamraengle.com

External References:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/American_Idol

http://www.americanidol.com/

http://www.tamraengle.com

HAVING A PLAN SAVED THEIR LIVES

2010-07-13T18:10:00.000-07:00

The importance of Artists having a plan, working collaboratively, and growing a global network
resonated with me this past week while visiting old and new friends and colleagues in Santa Fe New Mexico.

How often have you wondered?
How will I provide for me / or my family?
How can I make my life better?

As an artist how often do you work collaboratively with your peers?
or to help new comers to your field?
Deep down does the fear of not knowing where to start,
fear of your competition, or having to learn something new stop you? (Your not alone!!!)

Let me share with you artists, some who come from the simplest means you could possibly imagine, many have lived and died trapped in oppressive deadly situations, from recent examples of natures wrath in Haiti to cultural wars in Rwanda, Kenya, So. Africa, and so many other countries. Despite a variety of incredible obstacles have organized, prioritized, and are realizing the success of planning, setting goals, and using their business plans to take CONTROL of their lives.

We were among an estimated 25 thousand visitors to the:

The Santa Fe International Folk Art Market www.folkartmarket.org/
The 2010 market featured 147 artists from all over the world.
Over half the artists attending for the 1st time. 1/3 of these artists were member of a Artist Co-operatives.

To kick off what is now billed as International Folk Arts Week, the Museum of International Folk Art also exhibited the work of women's cooperatives from Bolivia, Rwanda, Peru, Swaziland, India, Kenya, Laos, South Africa, Morocco and Nepal that are represented at market.
Artwork included- weaving, bead work, painting, baskets, embroidery and other traditional folk arts.

The Santa Fe Folk Art Gallery of Conscience exhibition at the museum featured:
"Empowering Women: Artisan Cooperatives That Transform Communities"

Featuring 10 multinational - Woman’s Co-operatives which were selected for this exhibit.

Each Co-Op has a different motivation- whether it is preserving a dying heritage, sustaining the environment, providing a safe haven from violence, it is art that binds them however, the growing consumer market drives them.

These women have all learned to work collaboratively, creating products, develop distribution networks, and to decide democratically how to distribute or invest the revenues- whether it will be for group health care, or village to village water systems, or providing college scholarship funds for their children.

In recognition of the huge impact these co-operatives have the United Nations have proclaimed 2012 as the international Year of Cooperatives.

I am highlighting two Women that I met, who touched my heart, and whom I admire, respect, and honor.
Each represents the trans formative power of women working together to provide for their families, educate themselves and their children, promote equality, be stewards to their environment , or give back to their communities.

Gahaya Links Cooperative- Rwanda Janet Nkubana

BACKGROUND
In 1994 100 days of horrific ethnic violence Rwandan Hutu’s Murdered 1 million Tutsis and moderate Hutus, heaving hundreds of thousands widowed and orphaned. Neighbors killed neighbors, war rape was a systematic means of Genocide. Recovering from this unspeakable tragedy was impossible to imagine. Ephigenia Mukantabana lost 65 members of her own family, but has forgiven her families killer who is now imprisoned. For Ephigenia healing began when she worked side by side with the man’s wife Ephigenia a member of a basket weaving co-op in their home village of Sough Province. From it’s humbled beginning of 20 women the company has now grown to a network of over 4,000 weavers from across the country organized into 52 cooperatives.

Teaching her art to both Huto’s and Tusis and the balm that restored her shattered life “Art Heals a hopeless soul” & Though interaction you reduce trauma,. Weaving is our hope for tomorrow.

Umoja Uaso Woman's Group A Safe Haven from Violence; KENYA Rebecca Lolosoli -

The Beginning of this Co-op was not about art, it was about survival- Rebecca and 16 other homeless women in 1990 founded the village of Umoja Uaso as a refuge for other Samburu women who were victims of beatings, rape, forced marriage, and other violent domestic crimes. Rebecca shared with me privately some very horrifying personal stories of the brutal existence, she and others are working hard to change.

"Umoja" means Unity in Maa (the same language spoken by the Masai) Umoja is now a safe haven for women and girls fleeing abuse, it is also a education and training center to promote human rights, economic empowerment, and the preservation of indigenous art and crafts.

Today Rebecca and other Umoja leaders inspire women throughout the nation through workshops such as the rights of the girl-child, female reproductive health, HIV/Aids, violence prevention, and wormen's rights.

I encourage you to check out the links I have provided at the end of this article to read about these organizations and individuals- and if you or someone you know is an artist(male OR female!) that wants to sustain their families & themselves- or make your community a better place and need business guidance- I provide business solutions for creative minds to succeed in evolving competitive markets.

"Divided there is little we can do, working together we can change the world"
- TE inspired by JFK

References:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Artist_cooperative
www.folkartmarket.org/
List of Co-op's at the market:
http://media.museumofnewmexico.org/press_releases.php?action=detail&releaseID=119
http://ipsnews.net/africa/nota.asp?idnews=43740
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Samburu_people

2010 Market by the numbers:
BY THE NUMBERS

2010 Folk Art Market

175: Number of artists (half of them new to market)

53: Countries represented

400: Number of applicants

28: Sponsored artists

$200,000: Cost to pay for artists to come to Santa Fe

2009 Folk Art Market

123 artists from 46 countries

23,400 people attended (14.4 percent increase over 2008)

60 percent of attendees were visitors to Santa Fe

Generated $1.95 million in artists' sales

$152,257 in gross receipts tax paid on sales

Total economic impact estimated at $15.7 million

Over 1,500 volunteers worked for the market

Making a living as a recording artist

2010-07-02T17:25:00.000-07:00

Every week I talk to artists and every week when I ask individuals what they are interested in doing for a "living" they say "I am going to sell cd's!" or "I'm going to tour-

When pressed to see how they will pay for the tour, or simply pay the day to day bills
most reply that they will:

-Get signed to a major lable- who will finance my next cd

- Make money on tour PLUS sell cd's.

It must be hard for artists to realize that the old way of making music and MONEY has changed, I'm not going to discuss touring in this post, but talk about Selling CD's and how you make a living as a signed or unsigned artist.

At this writing there are only 4 major labels left - Each of them have MANY MANY MANY "boutique" labels under their "umbrella"

Sony Music Entertainment
EMI Group
Warner Music Group
Universal Music Group

With the precipedous decline in record sales, the "majors" do not write deals the way they used to. They will sign artists with a "360 deal".

I often joke that the 360 deal means that the label gets a piece of EVERYTHING within 360 degree's of YOU: Merchandise- Touring-Publishing-Songwriting shares- even entities you may create with your name and image etc.... These deals if your a major act like U2 and Madonna mean millions-
For a non established act they mean your chances of ever seeing a penny are slim to none!

FORGET THE MAJORS I AM GOING INDY!:
ALL of the indy labels are also cash strapped, and will also want to have a large percentage of a NEW or emerging artists Merchandising, Touring, Publishing etc.
So why the big rush to be signed?

I know "back in the day" you lived and breathed to be signed since that was the only path to success.

So what are your options?

Educate yourself- Learn EVERYTHING about what is going on in the industry- Learn what the key points in deals are, (contracts have NEVER been written with the artist's interest in mind- There is a ton of information out there via, books, the web, recording industry organizations. This is the #1 way to help you hold on to what little money you may have and any of your future earnings.
*Madonna- from day one sat in meetings, read,questioned, talked and PARTNERED with collegues that helped her grow her "business" into the empire it is today- Jay Z- P-Diddy Beyonce- all corporate CEO's.

Are you Ready for the big time?
Do you have a strong foundation and a strong business plan? Do you have a big and growning fan base, and your shows are packed to attract the attention of the BIG GUYS?

1st honestly ask yourself these questions:

1)Is your craft the very best it can be?

2) Are you presenting something that is totally unique to the masses?

3) Are you working as hard and smart as you can to establish & grow your "business"?

I promise this work is on-going- you need to dedicate a part of EVERY DAY to being the BEST at what EVER your good at and answering YES to these questions above.

FREE ADVISE:
DONT RUSH to sign a contract!! *DON"T SIGN ANYTHING unless you have a entertainment attorney review and negotiate on your behalf. The lable's ALL have legal teams that have constructed a contract that FAVORS THEM, you need indivduals on YOUR TEAM to protect YOUR interest and favor YOU). You can't afford an attorney? Can you afford to sign away all of your future earnings? You wouldn't do this with a 9-5 corporate job why would you do that with your PASSION?

BEING A INDY ARTIST D.I.Y. Do It Your Self:

If you agree that you still need to educate yourself and get ready for the big time so you can make the best informed decisions about YOUR career and earnings.
You 1st establish a strong foundation then build upon it.

Do you still have your heart set on recording your cd and make a living from the sales of it?

Awesome, Let's take a look at the numbers from 2009:

Soundscan 2009 numbers (soundscan tracks records sold)

in 2009 there were around 98,000 US releases
out of those releases only around 700 of them sold over 5,000 units
and only 12 of them sold over a million copies! Wow! one dozen sold over a million.

What does this mean to YOU?
Let's do musicians math.

You make a cd-
Let's say your CD cost $15,000 to make (a conservative estimate to record, master, & duplicate a full length cd)

If sell your cd for $10 a piece on your website, & at your shows.

You need to sell 1500 cd's to break even on your recording and mastering!!!

What about digital download sales? in 2009 they represented 40% of the total market- so digital downloads are increasing and physical sales are decreasing. You still have to sell 1500 units in physical or digital sales, The sad reality is most new artists NEVER sell 1500 copies, the RIAA doesnt even start "counting" you in their statistics until you sell 1000 units. It's simply the reality of the market today!

OTHER FACTORS:

If you want to get your cd reviewed and played you need to send out several hundred reviewers and promo people you hope will actually play your cd- (add the cost of mailing these cd's to the costs you will need to "re-coop".
Without adding in costs, like digital distribution, promotions, marketing, etc You still have to sell 1500 cd's to break even! Add to this equasion that on the internet there are 1000's of internet radio stations playing music for free (and the artist never get paid a cent) not a fast track way to make "a living".

DO I HAVE TO HAVE A FULL LENGTH CD?
Your CD in today's market is really nothing more than your "business card" you give them to potential investors and business partners to share your work, you sell them to fans to keep them coming to your shows, with digital press kits- having a EP or demo disc is perfectly fine and may make more sense- you still have something to sell, but consider the SINGLE mentality- many folks simply will not buy a full length cd, and now many emerging and established artists release singles all the time.

Fan's at shows will buy a disc but the sales numbers show that a majority of the record buying public download a favorite song or two- Record reviewers, booking agents, listen to Part of your song to see if they like you... so singles and short play discs are often less expensive options for new artists to consider-

NOW WHAT?
If your like many of us, this doesn't change the fact that you live to play and create music!
and you may STILL want to do a full length CD maybe it is only for personal fulfillment reasons.

Indy artists CAN make a living- you simply have to be creative and play to YOUR strengths, and put together a plan that will allow you to organize your time, identify the things you are really good at, and the area's you need help with- THEN building that into a your plan to create MULTIPLE revenue streams- It doesn't change the fact that you must stick to the plan and work hard to educate yourself about HOW the music / entertainment business works. (so it can work for YOU). * I can help you do this!!!

For a New UN-established artist you have to prove that you have "earning potential" and to demonstrate WHY others should join your team to HELP you succeed. (this includes FANS, voluteers to help you at shows, investors in YOU)

You may think to yourself, I haven't done any of that & I have people ready to sign me today!

Imagine you are a a A&R person your job is to look for talent (NOTE A&R folks do not sign acts they only scout the talent) Which of these bands would you be interested in pitching to your boss (who is the person offering the contract).

BAND 1- Updated press kit, Fan outreach, catalog of material, packing shows consistantly selling lots of merch- growing fan base, opening for popular regional acts.

BAND 2- Debut artist a few demo's on myspace inconsistantly playing coffee shops and local gigs
Has had no touring or recording experience-

If you fall into the BAND 2 catagory- do you think the person begging you to sign a "exclusive" agreement is interested or have connections to make you a star? do they have a history of working with artists JUST LIKE YOU to help them be successful?
If they have never worked with an artist like you, how are they going to be able to properly promote and grow your career?
More often it is a situation where a artist or band inexperience leading them to losing what little money they are making.

Look at the super successful major acts, and even the emerging artists that are on your iPod-
They ALL have "other businesses" that allows them options to creating a "living". (see the Diddy's Madonna's, Beyonce's listed above).

Don't be in such a hurry to sign away your earnings- As with any "job" the entertainment industry is a WONDERFUL place to create, learn and grow- It IS however a business and right now a UPSIDE DOWN business trying to figure out how to survive in a world where music is free and plentiful!

If you have questions about your career, are interested in putting together a success plan, or figuring out what else you need to do to "make a living" doing what you love- let's talk!

REFERENCES:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Record_label
http://www.cluas.com/music/features/madonna.htm
http://www.billboard.biz/bbbiz/content_display/industry/e3i4ad94ea6265fac02d4c813c0b6a93ca2
http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052748703882804574642764293968586.html

Free downloads up cd sells down: http://www.pollstar.com/blogs/news/archive/2009/03/18/655077.aspx

Free Tools for Artists- YouTube made these two stars!

2010-06-02T13:06:00.000-07:00

All the experts are trying to tap into what the NEXT wave is...
I tell new and prospective clients EVERY DAY the old record label model of getting huge advances (that never seem to get paid off) and being one of the stable of artists for the big record machine just isn't around anymore.

All the "experts" will agree that there is no 1 magic formula, but a thoughtful strategic plan is ALWAYS a key componant to being the next "overnight success", whether that is to be the god or goddess of your back yard, or the next "big thing"

Rule #1 is you have to have a great "product" (book, song, sculpture, painting, play, WHATEVER, the "product" is it better be GREAT!).

Rule #2 Have a strategic plan (this is your "roadmap" clearly identifying the who what where & why the heck people should care about YOU).** more about this later!

Rule #3 Work your ASS off! (this has NEVER changed!)

Rule #4 Be very personable, smile, meet people, develop your fan base....be ready to "pitch"(clearly define what it is you do and why the heck people should care).

The Internet is a huge part of any visual artists strategy. I recently picked up a Time Magazine that had two unrelated articles discussing the internet rise of two young artists using 1 free tool, which served as a springboard to making them two hot new acts.

1) Greyson Michael Chance: a 6th grader in Oklahoma on April 28th 2010 uploaded a video of himself performing Lady GaGa's "Paparazzi" from his school recital- You'll note in the video rul #1 is covered- he kills this song!-
By placing this video on youtube it "went viral" (probably because the kid is amazing) it got 16 million views (I just watched it and it has over 24 million views) Ellen DeGeneris booked him on her show (Lady GaGa called to root for him AND Elite manager Guy Oseary (who represents Madonna) signed him to his roster- and it is reported that he has a recently signed with Lady G's Label Interscope. See the video here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bxDlC7YV5is

2) Justin Beiber: When I first saw this kid on the Red carpet of the Grammy's I wondered who's kid he was? I had really dismissed him as another one of the teen pop tarts being churned out to the masses- WITH 1 difference Justin is the 1st real teen idol of the digital age (his fame can be attributed entirely to the internet).
Not a Disney kid, or someone you had seen in commmercials. At 12 year of Age Justin was competing in local community talent shows in Stratford Ontario Canada. His Single mom began posting his performances on YouTube to share with family members, One performance performing Aretha Franklins Respect caught a the eye of Atlanta Promoter and manager Scooter Braun Two weeks later Scooter flew Justin & his mom out to Atlanta and signed on as Justin's Manager.

The next 6 months Bieber and Braun tirelessly worked on strategically building a fan base and Justin was very involved in being "accessible to his fans" Tweeting, reading fan mail, responding to questions. Despite all this work no one would sign a unknown.

Remember rule #1 to "have a great product?" Justin's talent was soon on the radar of Justin Timberlake who expressed interest in working with him, and so did Usher, who had Justin sing and play guitar for him. (here is the video of that audition: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KBnS_381BXo Usher thought his raw talent was amazing for his age and struck a deal with Braun and a Def Jam record contract followed. By the time Justin's 7 song EP was released he had 50 million YouTube Subscribers. * that kind of following is CULTIVATED and requires a detailed strategic plan and LOTS of hard work to achieve this level of success!

** Remember rule #2 "Have a great strategic plan"?
You might not care to be the next Justin Bieber or Greyson Chance- However, ALL visual artists need to have a great strategic plan to achieve ANY level of success. That's when you call me to help you put together YOUR roadmap to success.

Take advantage of another FREE tool you can use to be successful- grab your computer, or video camera and caputure YOU doing what you do best and post it upon Youtube.
If your ready to take on Rule #3 to work your A** off and ready to start your plan to success then EMAIL me your video link telling me who you are and let's get started!

Being Debt Free...

2010-05-24T14:21:00.000-07:00

Today is a big day.
I am holding the pink slip to my 2 year old Subaru. I am now completely debt free.
No Credit Cards, No Mtg, No Car payment.

I can now check another thing off "my list"
Putting a line through COMPLETELY DEBT FREE then struck me.
How many people in the world dream of this, but struggle each month to make ends meet only to get further and further behind... They say in America 1/2 of the population has credit card debt and only a 1/3 does not.

I hesitate to share this information, for fear of raising the ire' of my colleagues....

Then, I smiled, realizing I can help add "friends" to the 1/3rd list...

how many big plans do YOU have that NEVER seem to happen.

I know, it's frustrating- it doesn't have to be this way.

I have suffered in the tough times just like everyone else.

Yet, today, I am financially unencumbered!? How does that happen?

Because I created a success plan and STUCK TO IT.

Feeling the urge to go out and buy something frivolous... I splurged and bought a $180 DanElectro guitar- The urge is satisfied, and no debt incurred. win-win.....
Having financial freedom is something everyone deserves. . . don't you think?

When people ask me what I do for a living- " I bring business concepts to creative minds, so they can identify and achieve their success". If you are interested in living debt free- let me help you create a success plan- I can tell you first hand IT WORKS!

Having financial freedom is something everyone deserves. . . don't you think?

I will be in Santa Cruz: June 4-5th and have a few 1 hour consultations still available between performances.

*book your consultation before June 1st and it's only $75.00 ($150 value)-
I support using the following communication tools: Face to Face, Skype, email, texting, carrier pigeon & owls- I am open to what ever works best for YOU.

To schedule your consultation email me at: guitartam@gmail.com

TV as a free promotional tool

2010-05-17T20:17:00.000-07:00

Everywhere you turn you are hearing about the importance of using social media to communicate with your fan base.
In the rush to stay on the technology wave you may overlook a FREE (or very nearly free) promotional tool courtesy of your local cable provider. Yup the same folks that suck $150 out of your bank account each month for high speed internet and cable in most communities offer a free service to the members of it's community called "public access television".
In a nutshell you take a couple of courses to learn how to use the equipment, and you have access to a STUDIO- You can use this as an opportunity to shoot a studio style music video for your promotions kit or web site. Camera's, lights, and microphones all at your disposal.
The possibilities are endless with what you can create- Bear in mind that even public access television has to adhere to FCC guidelines-and existing programming schedules however, you still have a wide scope of possibility available to you.

I want to share with you a very successful example of the PATV model being used by a young entertainer named Vinnie Langdon who took advantage of this free community service and has par laid this into a successful 6 year local television program.
Think about that for a moment MOST television shows don't even make it 6 episodes let alone produce on avg 83 shows A YEAR!!!
The Vinnie Langdon show has featured over 500 episodes and thousands of guests including touring performers from American Idol, Paramore, and actors from Film & TV.

As a guest on the show I have a copy of the program that I can use for promotional purposes- as well as 3 individual song performances that can be re-used for press kits / promo purposes and regular airplay on the local public access channel that broadcasts from Sacramento to Fresno

I turned the camera around and interviewed Vinnie because I applaud his entrepreneurial spirit and to find out how YOU can use public access television to promote your upcoming release- or if your touring hook up with the local public access TV station where your touring.

For more information on your local public access Television check with your local cable provider.
Here is a link to 700 sites for public access Television in California: http://www.communitymedia.se/cat/linksca.htm

If your interested in creative strategies for your success let me help!

Now here is the link to my interview with Vinnie:

http://bit.ly/9rAUwM

Missed Opportunities.....FREE TIPS

2010-05-10T11:31:00.000-07:00

Missed opportunities are things that folks are not always aware of. Every day opportunity presents itself, and
knowing when to recognize "opportunities" can be the difference between making a living and barely making it.

I am very regularly given cds and promo packs from aspiring and emerging artists for consideration in various projects.
Recently I posted a note on Facebook-to solicitate performing and performance artists that would be interested in being a featured performer at an upcoming Cougar Rock Show. I am interested in featuring some really unique performers that folks HAVEN"T heard from- not just singer songwriters, but plate spinners, dancers, flame throwers, what ever your schtick is.

I have a box overflowing with cd's as we speak, some very forgetable, and some....well they are outstanding!!
Unfortunatly, there are many missed opportunities here.

I am looking at 5 artists who instead of writing this blog I would rather be calling or emailing to book for an show.

All 5 artists have included: 1 sheets (a bio) headshots, and top quality music I can tell that alot of time and money was spend on not only the cd's but the video's and promo sheets. NONE of these submissions have contact info.!!!!!!!!

This seems unbelievable to me as I scan the packaging cd, NOTHING lot's of words but no contact info. WOW!

It's not that working with ME is going to change a career...It might, but best not to put your eggs all in one basket right?These 5 artists will never know, And MAY even think I blew them off, when honestly I simply don't have the time to drop everything and see if I can find contact info on them on the web since it isn't in their packaging.....ANYWHERE!!!

When you are doing EVERYTHING, writing the songs, performing recording, artwork notes, this and that.... you are SO in the middle of it all, and something so simple gets missed. Only this mistake is preventing you from being heard, and getting work.

This is where in a Music Supervisors or producer's office your CD just got tossed, never to be heard). That's an expensive mistake to make hundreds of times as you mail your promo packages.

Let me save you at least $5,000 in my Free Tip of the Day:
($5,000 is my conservative DIY estimate on the minimal cost of to make a indy cd)

FREE TIP OF THE DAY:

Did you know that MOST (over 90%) of press kits get tossed in the trash? This is THE tool that is your calling card, and the item that booking agents, venue operators, managers, etc ALL use to determine if they will or want to work with you.

Your promo kit does not have to be flashy, or expensive, however it MUST be thoughtfully put together to contain the key ingredients to maximize the opportunity for your music to even be heard!

When you are submitting a promo kit to anyone- You will be a missed opportunity UNLESS you include these things.

1) Contact persons name
2) WebSiite of artist
3) phone number (with area code!!!)
4) email address

Your promo kit is your calling card- You may have heard the expression "you never have a 2nd chance to make a 1st impression" it's true.

PROMO KIT ESSENTIALS:

9 times out of 10 an epk (electronic press kit) is the best way to go, Then your prospective clients click on a link and off we go, no plastic, paper, reams of info to sort through. That doesn't change the fact that the information needs to still be top quality AND COMPLETE. Do NOT handwrite on the cd have EVERYTHING professionally printed, no handwriting ISN"T COOL
when people can't read it. Trust me we can tell it's DIY!

Here's what you need professionally prepared:

1) 1 sheet/BIO (this is a PROFESSIONALLY written, not something YOU wrote *this is your 1st impression make it work.) Concise and to the point.
2) Head shot / Band picture (smart artists have it printed on the back of their bio, )
3) CD/DVD * booking people will not pour over each track put a sticker on the case pointing out the #1 or 2 tracks that you want them to hear. When you are screening CD's you want to get right to the point.
4) VIDEO-even if it is shot on a flip camera- something that shows YOU in a performance setting- You can almost be guarenteed you WILL NOT get booked for a performance UNLESS you do include a video of what you look like live, studio recording make folks sound perfect, it is NOT reflective of what YOUR live show is like.
5) Media clippings / quotes- essential for all professionals.

I have helped many individual artist and bands with putting together or revamping their media kits. Your not part of the competition if your promo kit is in a trash can. You need to be able to diffentiate yourself from anyone else doing what YOU DO.
If your interested in success, and not MISSED OPPORTUNITIES. You can schedule a 1 hr consultation with me to have your promo kit reviewed-or create a career changing success plan.

Tamra Engle is a performing songwriter, musician and social entrepreneur offering strategic marketing promotional consulting & performance coaching for artists & bands to help them succeed in the evolving music and entertainment industries.
You can contact her to move your career forward at www.tamraengle.com

CREATING YOUR VISION WKSHP

2010-05-04T12:33:00.000-07:00

GuitarTam Music Business Workshop series

WORKSHOP PT 1: CREATING YOUR VISION

Designed to provide new business executives (in any field) the foundation to achieving maximum success.
This program is designed for Artists & Entrepreneur's who are interested in establishing a strong foundation to build a business plan for their careers.

Do you want to be a successful artist or entrepreneur ?
I have an important question to ask you: what does that success look like to you?

YOU WILL LEARN:
- What is your vision?
*Your vision provides you with direction and is the most important factor in achieving success w/ your music or artistic career.
- Your vision provides you w/ direction
- Helps you achieve success faster!
- Artists w/ established visions stop wasting time & money!
- Your vision is the foundation to your PLAN that you build your success upon.
- Exersises and coaching for YOU to develop your vision

May 5th Mudrakers Café 6:30-7:30pm
2801 Telegraph Ave
Berkeley, CA 94701
Limited to 8 registered participants $25.00 / to pre reg. Guests
Tuition due at beginning of workshop:

To Register: http://www.tamraengle.com/contact.php

For information about your instructor: http://www.tamraengle.com/

CREATING YOUR VISION WKSHP

2010-04-29T12:01:00.000-07:00

"ESSENTIAL TOOLS FOR BUSINESS SUCCESS"
GuitarTam Music Business Workshop series

WORKSHOP PT 1: CREATING YOUR VISION

Designed to provide new business executives (in any field) the foundation to achieving maximum success.
This program is designed for Artists & Entrepreneur's who are interested in establishing a strong foundation to build a business plan for their careers.

Do you want to be a successful artist or entrepreneur ?
I have an important question to ask you: what does that success look like to you?

YOU WILL LEARN:
- What is your vision?
*Your vision provides you with direction and is the most important factor in achieving success w/ your music or artistic career.
- Your vision provides you w/ direction
- Helps you achieve success faster!
- Artists w/ established visions stop wasting time & money!
- Your vision is the foundation to your PLAN that you build your success upon.
- Exersises and coaching for YOU to develop your vision

Wed- May 6th Mudrakers Café 6:30-7:30pm
2801 Telegraph Ave
Berkeley, CA 94701
Limited to 8 registered participants $25.00 / to pre reg. Guests
Tuition due at beginning of workshop:

To Register: http://www.tamraengle.com/contact.php

For information about your instructor: http://www.tamraengle.com/

Missed Opportunities bum me out!

2010-04-26T15:50:00.000-07:00

In the past 28 years in the music industry you have seen the fat label cat days-hot tub filled w/ beautiful girls 1 hairy backed producers, lighting cigars w/ C notes-
To the back on the street days.... The Fat cat is now an ol broken down Ally Cat after cocaine rehab. The beautiful girls are looongggg gone with the drugs and the money-

In a way today is like the old wild west, The old model of big label music deals is dead, and it's a Indie jungle out there what few "deals" are out there are not geared toward the performer making ANY money. The one thing hasn't changed is that it is STILL the Music Business- the smart and successful people are using basic business strategies to create and monetize the brave new world. Folks that shun technology and educating themselves about how business works will be find themselves forever treading in the same small pond with no measurable earnings from their craft.

Let me give you a couple of examples of missed business opportunities that happened this past weekend:

Example 1- Who to do business with:
A client recently asked whether they should do business with a particular organization who for $400 / yr would "promote" the "selected artists" to their in house Music Supervisors and Publishing company.
(It wasn't clear if your $400 suddenly made your "a selected artist" or THEY decided which artist was bestowed that title).

Beyond that, on the website in the selected artist publishing area the word MUSIC is Mis-Spelled as MUISC. If I was not hesitant to give up my $400 I now would be.

LESSON: CHECK THE DETAILS.

A much better investment would be have your $400 applied toward a direct & measurable result.
I would recommend a business assessment where you are provided with the framework you will need to insure you have a catalog which is properly cleared, licensed, THEN learn to to properly use the tools to develop relationships DIRECTLY with the music supervisors/ publishers. These folks are SO BUSY that when you have established a repoire, and have a properly prepared pitch for them you have maximized your opportunity for having your songs HEARD and considered for placement WITH the decision makers.

EXAMPLE 2- Where is the business?

I recently performed at & conducted a workshop at a 1st time GO GREEN Expo:
Granted in Northern California the GO GREEN mantra is a bit like preaching to the choir, but a good cause and great info for a FREE bring your family event.
IF YOU COULD FIND THE EXPO!!!
No where on the GO GREEN Sacramento website did they have the event address! or a QUESTIONS or FAQ link.

If I had not been performing there I would have given up looking and found something ELSE to do.

Needless to say it wasn't a surprise to me that the micro version of the Los Angeles Expo that I had previously performed at was a HUGE missed opportunity- & for all the business owners that paid money to have a booth at the expo???? money down the drain because targeted leads didn't know how to get to them.

LESSON: if your business provides a service- put your address on ALL of your marketing collateral INCLUDING the WEBSITE.
Website Content Review! make sure it's current and targeted DO NOT put any barriers between you and your customers.

EXAMPLE 3: What is your business?

Conventions & Expo's have booths filled with people selling you their products or service: Unless you can capture your audience in the 1st 15 seconds you have lost the sale. EVERYONE must have a "elevator pitch" (called this since you should be able to tell someone in the time it takes to get from one floor to the next who you are and what you do).
In music this missed opportunity happens thousands of times each day.
When someone asks you what you do ? I hear songwriters say " oh I'm a singer songwriter" REALLY wow! know if your a girl I assume you sound like Jewel or a guy John Mayer or James Taylor and I'm kinda bored with you.
What if you Tell me your a performing songwriter that sounds like Green Day doing a rockabilly jam w/ Sinatra developing your catalog for film & television Then I know what you sound like, and that your a developing artist with a interest in placement opportunities.
NEXT, the knowing when to and when not to pitch....

LESSON:
Every day you meet at least 5 people who are potential customers- properly utilizing opportunities, developing relationships so you grow your base so each DAY you have a minimum number of individuals BUYING something from you.

These are 3 examples reflecting missed opportunities for customers to buy something, or add to a strong foundational componant that you are building toward your dream opportunity.
You might not even recognize the opportunity passing by, unless you know where to look.

These are a couple of examples of area's I can help you:

BUSINESS ANAYLSIS-
ELEVATOR PITCHES-
ORGANIZATIONAL PLANS-
DEVELOPING REVENUE STREAMS-
1 HOUR CONSULTATIONS

If you are interested in learning how to make your passion a successful business let's talk! Face to face, phone, email or skype tele-consultations available.

I want to help you be successful, so you can help others succeed!

=Tamra=
www.tamraengle.com

Earth Day Workshop/ 10 tips to go green

2010-04-23T11:29:00.000-07:00

TAMRA ENGLE
COUGAR ROCK SHOW
WWW.TAMRAENGLE.COM

GO Green Expo workshop information presented at the Go Green Expo Sacramento 4/24/10
If you are interested in booking Tamra to speak, host a workshop or for a performance opportunity contact her at www.tamraengle.com

Co2 Carbon Dioxide is emitted through fossil fuels in business, households, and from individuals contributing to the mix of green house gasses.

EMISSIONS

22 Billion metric tons- amount of all human related emissions
7 Billion metric tons- the earth’s annual absorption rate
-15 Billion metric tons- of global emission surplus advancing global warming

AVG HUMAN ANNUAL CARBON FOOTPRINT

36 tons worldwide
20 tons USA

THINGS I HAVE DONE TO REDUCE MY CARBON FOOTPRINT:

ÿ TURN OFF COMPUTER / MONITOR AT NIGHT
ÿ CHANGE LIGHTS TO CFL’s (save’s 70% $60 over it’s lifetime)
ÿ DRYING YOUR CLOTHES OUTSIDE (At least 6 months /yr saves $700)
ÿ SHOP IN THRIFT STORES FOR CLOTHING (& DONATE USED CLOTHING TO THRIFT STORES TO BE REUSED).
ÿ SEND OLD GUITAR STRINGS TO LOCAL JEWLERY MAKER WYM.COM
ÿ REDUCE LANDFILL BY USING DOWNLOAD CARDS INSTEAD OF CD’S (or your can download free at www.tamraengle.com)
ÿ CARPOOL TO GIGS
ÿ USE HYBRID VEHICLES WHEN TOURING / LONG TRIPS
ÿ RECHARGEABLE BATTERIES – in foot pedals and wireless mics
ÿ POWER CONSERVING SURGE PROTECTORS http://www.belkin.com/
ÿ RECYCLE OLD CD’S www.secondspin.com
ÿ OPTED OUT OF JUNK MAIL LISTS www.optoutprescreen.com
ÿ HOME COMPOSTING www.composting101.com
ÿ SHOP @ LOCAL FARMERS MARKETS: http://www.sfgate.com/food/farmersmarkets/

10 THINGS YOU CAN DO TO REDUCE YOUR CARBON FOOTPRINT

1. Use Energy Star Appliances Energy Star
(save 30% a year!)
2.Unplug any unused NON energy star appliances when not in use
(save up to .8 tons of Co2/yr)
3.Travel Light (Walk or carpool when you can) www.erideshare.com
avoiding just 10 miles of driving every week would eliminate about 500 pounds of carbon dioxide emissions a year
Use hybrid vehicles for long trips) if you eliminate 1 long air flight a year (you save 2.2 tons)
4.Recycle/Reuse (save .9 tons of Co2)
5.Shop at thrift stores for clothing
6.Use cloth bags instead of the stores bags when shopping
7.Compost (save 4.5 yons of Co2/yr)
8.Plant your own sustainable veggie garden
(even potted plants on your patio!)
9. Use bio degradable bags for pet and household waste
all petdepot at Amazon.com
10. Shop at your local farmers market (the avg US meal travels 1200 miles to get to your plate, if you shop locally you cut back on c02 emissions)

HELPFUL WEBSITES

ENERGY PROOF YOUR HOME: http://www.energysavers.gov/
Energy Star Appliances and household information: www.energystar.com
Bio bags All Pet Depot at: www.amazon.com
Carpooling / Ridesharing: www.erideshare.com
Opt out of Junkmail lists: www.optoutprescreen.com
Guitar String Jewelery: http://www.wym.org/
Used CD/s buying /selling: www.secondspin.com
Farmers Markets in the Bay area: http://www.sfgate.com/food/farmersmarkets/
Composting- www.composting101.com

Creating mode...

2010-04-10T16:42:00.000-07:00

As an artist I find things to be cyclic. Creating a new release is a birthing.
Spring Gardens, digging in the dirt, and planting the seeds to go back in the studio... Creative seeds are scattered about in scribbles, and ponderings in the margin of books and journals.

Texturing music,
blending, sounds
and emotions
til it stands on it's own

Then shoved out of the nest to see the world.........

Behind the scenes you also get to take your lumps for not fitting in a box....
Not everyone feels comfortable being in a collaborative environment, they get scared, and I think the fear stops them from growing. Fi Fi Fo Fife-dom

I want to learn from everyone, What excites you about what you do ?

How can each of us use what we love so dearly to help others around us?

I think that is religion to give something with total love and let it help another.

You can check out some refinements I have made to my website under my services.
I'd love to help you discover, rekindle, or even make a living from what excites YOU.

http://www.tamraengle.com/services/consulting.html

http://www.tamraengle.com/services/page2.html

Volunteers & Songwriting workshop

2010-03-13T11:14:00.000-08:00

2 Week SONGWRITING WORKSHOP:
March 16 & 23rd 6:30 pm-8:30
344 Main St.
Vacaville, Ca.

1.5 hr instructor led group songwriter workshops- you will learn industry tips and tricks to lean how to use tools that will help you generate a catalog of finished songs.
*and create collaborative partnerships to work with!

MARCH 16TH 6:30pm (Pt 1 of 2) Group songwriting workshop- Learn how to write amazing catchy songs- in this hands on lesson-

MARCH 23rd 6:30pm (Pt 2 of 2) : You will perform your new song- and get instructor feedback!. ( students must have participated in Pt 1 workshop to perform)

$50 for both workshops.

Limited to 25 people
Reserve your space at: www.tamraengle.com/contact.php

ABOUT YOUR INSTRUCTOR:

Tamra Engle is a social entrepreneur, performing songwriter, musician & founder of GuitarTam Music. Offering strategic business planning & coaching for businesses, artists and bands to help them succeed in the evolving music and entertainment industries.
Her award winning debut CD “The Blonde Flame Sessions”was on the nominating ballot for the 50th annual Grammy Awards for best contemporary folk album), and soon to be released “Living the American Dream”.

For information and booking inquries: www.tamraengle.com

Volunteers needed to help produce monthly Cougar Rock Shows (2-4 performances a month- 2-3 hr shows)

*Think 21st century Euro Vaudeville/ w/ a nod to burlesque- vintage steam punk to compliment my musical performances.

I need a team to help:

- Securing locations -event hosts
- Finding unique Acts ( dancers, unique visual landscapes, performers, singer songwriters, bands, performance art).
- Booking Shows / Tours in western region
- Posters / promotions design & printing
- Sound Engineers
- Lighting AV tech
- Stage director
- Marketing on social media putting up posters getting word out!
- Finding sponsors for show raffles / give away’s
- Help get paying customers in the seats!

This role will appeal to a highly energetic and proactive individual with experience in managing events, promotions and conferences. Tertiary qualified in marketing, business or other related discipline, you possess excellent communication skills, both written and verbal and have high attention to detail. A strong awareness of brand development and marketing planning. An ability to work autonomously is important and is available for evening & weekend events. strong negotiation, stakeholder and supplier management skills.

Artist & Entreprenuer information: www.tamraengle.com

TO APPLY: Email Resume & Cover Letter Describing why YOU are the best person for the job

SOL PT Olympic Dreams

2010-01-27T21:55:00.000-08:00

It is important to highlight sponsors that our doing great things in our communities-
Sports and Orthopedic Leaders (SOL PT) www.solpt.com
is a progressive physical therapy and wellness facility that in 2009 was voted BEST IN THE BAY-http://bestofthebaytv.com/view/943

SOL PT has worked very hard to be the best they can be- and recently participated in one of my goal setting workshops
to align their staff within a growing business-

Together they are successfully realizing goals they worked hard to establish and realize.

One of the individual goals established for Co-Owner Nina Patterson was to treat Olympic Athletes and help them at the 2010 Vancouver Games. You also have the opportunity to help support our best and brightest have all they need to win the Gold in February

My Client of the Month is SOL PT www.solpt.com and this is how you can help!

2010 Olympic Dreams

Re Sponsorship Opportunity for 2010 Olympic Games

Dear SOLPT Supporter,
As you know, every second counts at SOLPT. We strive to provide the most effective care that gets results for each and every individual. For the past 2 years, I have worked with several USA Bobsled athletes, who soon will be representing our country in the 2010 Olympic Games. It is with great honor and excitement that I will be JOINING these athletes in Vancouver to provide them with Performance Care during the Olympics!
The USOC doesn’t have the financing to provide the individual athletes the resources to be their very best. I know YOU appreciate the importance of being at the top of your game.

MEET THE OLYMPIANS:
Chuck Berkeley
CAL Berkeley
400 Meter

USA 4-Man Boblsed with John Napier, Driver

MEN’S 4-MAN RACE: February 26, 27

Shauna Rohbock

USA Women’s
#1 Bobsled

28 World Cup Medals
Silver Medal 2006 Olympics
WOMEN’S RACE: February 23, 24

MEET THE US Bobsled team: http://bobsled.teamusa.org/athletes/index?tag_id=10796

I am hoping that together YOU can help me to help our USA Winter Olympic athletes have the best care possible to help them win gold in February.
To be available for our Mens and Women’s Team I am asking for your support to help raise $5000. I am asking you to contribute towards this goal. I have included a sponsorship menu that details the benefits I can offer you in addition to the obvious benefit of helping our US Olympic Bobsled team.

Nina Patterson, PT, OCS
SOLPT

2010 Olympic Dreams Sponsor Opportunities:

Bronze Sponsor Package
Donation: $20 - $49
As a bronze sponsor you receive the following benefits,
- Recognition in SOLPT newsletter and on SOLPT Facebook Fan Page
- Special SOLPT / 2010 Olympic pin

Silver Sponsor Package
Donation: $50 - $199
As a silver sponsor you receive all of the above plus the following benefits,
- Special commemorative Olympic gift
- Include your company logo in SOLPT newsletter and SOLPT Facebook Fan Page

Gold Sponsor Package
Donation: $200- above
As a gold sponsor you receive all of the above plus the following benefits,
- Framed photo from Vancouver of the Bobsled Olympians whom you are
supporting

The 2010 Olympic Games are just around the corner, so donations must be received by February 17, 2010. All donors will be sent receipt letter. Thank you for your donation.
Your Name _____________________
Street Address __________________ Email___________________________
City______________State_____ ZIP__________

Amount of contribution $___________

Please make checks payable to Nina Patterson

c/o SOLPT Olympic Dreams
5297-A College Ave
Oakland, CA 94618

Thank you for your commitment to being the best, and supporting the best our US Bobsled team is bringing to Vancouver,

Nina Patterson PT OCS
Owner, Sol PT
www.solpt.com

2010 NAMM SHOW

2010-01-17T13:09:00.000-08:00

The riot of sound that consumes you when you visit NAMM show
I would describe as a High School marching band on acid walking through your head.

NAMM (National Association of Music Merchants) members are companies that manufacture, distribute and/or retail musical instruments/products. attendance at NAMM trade shows is restricted to "trade only" companies (not open to the public).
This year's NAMM Show is expected to draw more than 86,000 registered attendees who will display and view thousands of new products, ranging from string, percussion and band instruments to pianos, music accessories, pro audio and computer music equipment.

The 2010 show marks the 40th anniversary and was definatly leaner than the glitsy years past where you staggered out of the convention center with a suitcase spilling over with guitar strings, straps, Tshirts, gadgets...and sometimes a promotional model... (Hey it's Rock and Roll).

The 2010 show brought 1500 Manufacturer's most that I spoke with were greatful to simply be there and have 2009 behind them. Many admitted the previous year was so bad from a sales perspective they were SO happy to be standing there.
Most of these folks were seriously interested in having a conversation about creative ways to have business brought TO THEM.
I look forward to sharing (in upcoming blogs) some wonderful products that I recommend you add to your musical tool kit so you can be your best.

Sightings:

Yoko Ono- The John Lennon Educational tour bus was on display, (www.lennon bus.org) “The John Lennon Educational Tour Bus is a non-profit outreach program with the mission of giving kids a chance to express themselves through music and video productions,” and Yoko was there on Thursday along w/ Quincy Jones, Jackson Brown & the Cookie Monster all speaking in support of keeping music in young peoples lives.

Some of the "old people" keeping it rocking were:
A bespeckeled Rob Halford, Judas Priest front man- Sporting a big gold wedding band leather pants w/ matching vest perched on a stool autographing pics from mostly middle aged male groupies ...(Rob and I are old enough to remember a day when it was NOT cool to show off your wedding ring)-
Slash showing off Marshall's new AFD100 -Can you say LOUD, and the AFD is really the signature SLASH amp with out his name??? Slash? seriously... the Amp should say SLASH on it....

George Lynch (Dokken & Lynch Mob)- DJ Jazzy Jeff (w/o the Fresh Prince) Craig Chaquico Doyle Dykes, Michael Anthony- Michael has been spending some time in the gym and actually the healthest looking of all the other guys, and aside from Jeff the youngest of the old rockers....Dave Mustaine the founding member of Megadeath was 'guided' out to his signing stool at Dean Guitars- by two sales managers Can you say death warmed over? eeechhh!

Cool New Products:

FURMAN: www.furman.com
P-2300 IT E Balanced Power Conditioner for 220V-240V Regions

Designed for the most critical, ultra-low noise installations in 220V-240V regions, the P-2300 IT E supplies balanced and isolated AC power for recording studios, broadcast stations, video production facilities, or any environment requiring a studio quality signal-to-noise ratio.

The P-2300 IT E offers 14 balanced, GFCI-protected IEC C-13 outlets (12 rear panel, 2 front panel) with a total operating capacity of 10 A. A front-panel display features a switchable and dimmable digital voltmeter/ammeter with color-coded “Voltage Range,” “Protection OK,” and “Extreme Voltage” indicators for comprehensive power monitoring. A front-panel USB outlet allows the user to charge personal media devices and cell phones or power a USB lamp. The unit ships with 2.5-meter IEC C13 female-to-Schuko-male power cord.

The P-2300 IT E is available now through Furman’s regional distribution partners.

http://bit.ly/7w3uV9
P-1800 PF Power Conditioner

An update to Furman’s Power Factor Pro, the P-1800 PF is a floor version of the popular rackmount P-1800 PF R. Ideal for instrument amplifiers and guitar/bass heads, the P-1800 PF provides comprehensive protection with Furman’s exclusive Power Factor and Clear Tone Technologies for uncompromised performance from high-current gear. The P-1800 PF’s new design features a sleek black finish and high-current outlets for instantaneous, low-impedance current delivery. Its compact, rugged steel construction is ideal for stage or studio use.

SHURE: www.shure.com

Shure has had products I have used through out my career- SImply because they are the best, Excellent quality, dependability
AND durability- when your on the road touring they consistantly out perform anything. I recently added two PGX wireless products to my gear the PGX headset- & wireless guitar pack- Incredibly easy set up- flexibility to use in a variety of environments- and crystal clear sound!

BEHRINGER: www.behringer.com
With an unbelievable 50 new products Uri's team is introducing visitors to new loudspeakers, power amplifiers, a studio monitor range, and DJ mixers.
My Favorites were:
The Virtualizer PRO 3D, described as using “Real Sound Modeling technology to give 71 stereo algorithms the power to accurately emulate a wide range of acoustic environments”. The processor includes 12 reverb programs, modulation, amp simulation, distortion and effects, as well as dynamic and psychoacoustic processing.

The EuroLive range of loudspeakers is sitting at the top of the release list with a wealth of new cabinets being released. Among them are the EuroLive VP1220D and VP1520D enclosures, each delivering 550 Watts through 12″ and 15″ woofers respectively plus 1.75″ titanium compression drivers.

FISHMAN: www.fishman.com

I am the proud owner of Fishman's Loudbox 100 and LOVE their products.
Fishman is offering a acoustic imaging pedal-
The Aura Sixteen features an open architecture pre-loaded with 16 dreadnought images from the Aura Image Gallery. Using the Aura Image Gallery’s search and download tools, you can find your instrument and reprogram the unit with your choice of Images from a selection of about 800. The Aura Image Gallery is available as a download or for Aura Imaging Pedal owners for $29.95.

According to Fishman, the unit eliminates intrusive stage noise and expensive microphone setups while providing the most realistic acoustic sound available for stage or studio.

The Aura Sixteen features a USB interface for Image downloading from the Aura Image Gallery (software included); 16 pre-loaded Aura Images for dreadnought-style guitars; Image Select, Volume, and Blend controls; a Feedback-fighting Phase switch; a Bypass / Mute foot switch; Input Trim; a Clip / Low Battery indicator; and more.

ACOUSTIC GUITARS:
It is nearly impossible to properly demo an acoustic guitar at NAMM- But these were standouts!

TAYLOR: www.taylor.com
The 9-string is perfect for the player looking for 12-string shimmer without sacrificing a focused low-end. The guitar features mahogany back and sides, a Sitka spruce top, Taylor's Standard II soundboard bracing, a three-ring abalone rosette, a "35th Anniversary" logo between frets 11 and 12 and the Taylor Expression System® pickup and preamp.

It also comes with a hardshell case and a certificate of authenticity singed by co-founders Bob Taylor and Kurt Listug. The initial run of this instrument will be limited to 35 guitars and will be available in late fall/early winter. And as you might expect with such a limited edition instrument this guitar costs more than the blue book value of your car: $4998 USD.

ELECTRIC GUITARS:

JAMES TRUSSART http://www.jamestrussart.com/Steelcaster.htm

My Absoulute FAVORITE: Trussart is a musician-turned-luthier. The Parisian native began his career as a fiddler, accompanying Cajun singer-songwriter Zachary Richard in the late ’70s, before turning his attention to crafting violins and later guitars in 1980. From his current So-Cal home workshop (where he’s resided since 2000), Trussart crafts custom steel-bodied guitars, basses and violins in a dazzling array of finishes, reminiscent of shiny chrome resonator instruments and rusty, weathered or fossilized discarded machinery. And the tone is so distinctive that Trussart guitars have become ‘must-have’ instruments in the arsenals of influential artists including Paul Simon, Eric Clapton, Billy Gibbons, Joe Walsh, Jack White, Charlie Sexton, Daniel Lanois, Marc Ribot, Peter Stroud (Sheryl Crow), Rich Robinson (Black Crowes), Sonny Landreth, Joe Perry, Tom Morello, Billy Corgan, The Roots and many, many more.

DAISY ROCK: www.daisyrock.com
Daisy Rock is doing what ever it takes to help girls play guitar and enjoy music.
New for 2010 The debutant seranade Acousti Parlor Guitars & Rock Candy Extreme electric guitar.
Great for the entry level guitar players.

GUITAR ACCESSORIES:

LR BAGGS: www.lrbaggs.com

Venue DI: The Venue DI is a beautifully packaged roadworthy floor box that has everything you need to get the perfect acoustic tone from your guitar in any live venue. The Venue DI is designed with 100% discrete circuitry for the cleanest and sweetest sound possible and also features a transformer couple D.I for total ground loop elimination and a new chromatic tuner in an attractive and bulletproof foot pedal package.

Anthem: This is a mic that fits into the soundhole of your acoustic guitar and what you will experience is your guitar- loud with the fidelity and dynamics that come from a real microphone. The sound quality and feedback resistance of the Anthem Tru-Mic now allows the mic to be the primary sound source in a mic/pickup system with only the very lowest frequencies being augmented by our Element undersaddle pickup. VERY SWEET.

The Anthem’s feather-weight control unit contains all of the essentials: volume, mix and phase. It nestles securely inside of the soundhole for easy fingertip access.

TC ELECTRONICS: http://www.musicradar.com/news/guitars/namm-2010-see-tcs-polytune-tune-all-our-strings-at-once-232886 Polytune all string tuner- the only draw back is that it works only with standard tuning, so no good for you Micheal Hedges, Joni Mitchell fans....

VOCAL ACCESSORIES:

TC Electronics www.tcelectronics.com
Takes the prize with 2 cool products:
The Voicetone create XT- Brings your studio vocals right into your live show
Reverb, gender, modulation.... Amazing!
check out the demo at: HTTP://www.tc-helicon.com/voicetone-create-xt.asp#
Retail $349

And the big daddy of them all: The Voice Live 2 which gives you up to 8 harmony vocals- Gender, Adaptive Tone, Reverb, Delayed ducking... Very impressive, though I did find the Choir Setting sounding a bit compressed and robotic sounding.
Retail $995

OTHER OBSERVATIONS:

Panel discussion titles:

The Post Crisis Consumer
Stratagies for a changing retail world
7 ways to thrive in ANY economy

China: Just interesting to see the country itself so prominently displayed.

Though they argued to be a "developing nation" during the global summit in Copenhagen to avoid having to adhere to
restrictions on emissions. They had a large presence in the show, and for a developing nation are posting some pretty impressive sales numbers. It is projected they will have earned $315 million by 2011 in the digital music market & in recorded music their global value is approximately US$100 billion - three times the actual size of their retail sales.
Now this is a blip for a country of 1.3 billion people.

Experts indicate that China is the fastest growing market in music today: They are 7th currently in the world's music market (they were 20th in 2007) http://online.wsj.com/article/SB125207664547286713.html

Saturday Afternoon, I emerged from the Anaheim Convention Center into a cloud of Cigerette smoke, the door closing behind me leaving me with the feeling of sensory deprevation, as if I had lost my hearing.... it takes a minute to ground yourself and realize it is the absence of the acid driven marching band marching around in your head.... you are stepping back out into the "real world".....& I drive to the airport with the radio off.... images and products swirling around in my head.

I am really happy to have seen some of my old buddies walking around the show, and very excited about new relationships that were developed, which I will share in more detail in upcoming blogs.

For now, mark your calendar for an upcoming Cougar Rock show www.tamraengle.com-and you can join me in creating a strong global music community to work with folks that make our world a better place,
Together we are "Bridging people and society through the power of music!"

Peace,

=Tamra Engle
www.tamraengle.com

DEC 2009 NEWSLETTER: (TEXT CONTENT)

2009-12-08T21:11:00.000-08:00

UNDER ONE ROOF

I have been working hard on aligning my many projects and put them all under one roof.
What does this mean to you? I hope it makes information much easier for you to navigate- and provide you with the opportunity to join me in making our communities a better place!

I am so pleased to announce a new partner to my team: Tierra Tech Corporation, who has been working very hard to consolodate ALL of my social networking sites and update my website to house the different facets of GuitarTam Music & my Social Entreprenuerial programs-
They are helping me "Bridging people and society through the power of music."

PLEASE CHECK OUT THE NEW WEBSITE- www.tamraengle.com

NEW SHOWS IN 2010:

Remember going out for the evening and being entertained?

There has been alot of work behind the scenes....putting together a new Cougar Rock Power Trio

Partnering with other outstanding performers, and expanding some performances to include audio visual and performing artists to take you on a musical journey that I really hope you will enjoy-Several tours are on the calendar. Can you still see a solo acoustic performance? SURE! but the new year will give you so much more:

Meet the band:

I am super excited to have the gifted multi percussionist & teacher Afia Walking Tree joining me- If you enjoyed Pele JuJu powerhouse shows, you'll love seeing and hearing the same dynamic percussionist bring her African Disporic rhythms to our show.
You will see a variety of gifted multi instrumentalists joining us bringing harmonic beat driven melodies to my music...

Do you need a new roof for your house? Host a Cougar Rock house concert & we'll get you and your guests dancing & take the roof off!

APPOINTMENT: Sr. Director N.A.R.I.P.:

NARIP (The National Association of Record Industry Professionals) has asked me to assume the role of Sr. Director of Marketing and Programs for their San Francisco Chapter.
NARIP promotes education, career advancement and good will among record executives. with an emphasis on becoming better informed and more effective executives, NARIP offers professional development opportunities, educational programs and seminars, the opportunity to meet and interact with peers, a job bank, a member resume database for employers, a mentor network, a newsletter and other services.
Interested in learning more?

We are hosting a holiday happy hour at El Rio in San Francisco from 6-8pm
Come meet other recording industry professionals and learn more about NARIP at www.narip.com

Dec 10th 6-8pm No-Host Bar El Rio 3158 Mission St San Francisco, CA 94110-4560
(415) 282-3325

Should you find yourself flying the friendly sky this spring, American Airlines has licensed MAYBE I'M RIGHT to be part of their inflight music program!

TAMRA'S MUSIC PLACEMENT:

American Airlines In-Flight Entertainment Program

Dear Tamra Engle,

You have recently submitted your music for consideration in our Spring In-Flight Music Program
for flights that offer audio programming, Our passengers can enjoy up to 16 channels of music as well as a business and Technology report from Sky Radio, which exposes your music to the 4.2 million American Airlines passengers who fly in the each month. We are delighted to have selected you to add our growing roster of international artists that will be highlighted in our spring programming.
The agreement will specify the use of your song titled: MAYBE I'M RIGHT
from your CD titled: THE BLONDE FLAME SESSIONS

Thank you for choosing American Airlines to showcase your music, we hope to see you soon!

2009-12-08T12:16:00.000-08:00

Sept 2009 Newsletter...

Imagine driving down a long road in the desert night with the stars sparkling above when you.
Around the bend you see bright lights, hear music, and laughter coming from a crowded cafe by the side of the road.
Pull over and come inside, we've saved you a seat- you'll want to sing along, drink a cup and be filled with the "Aussie-AmeROCKana Wall of Sound" this amazing group weave's together with looping pedals Guitars, Violin, Harmonica, and a Banjolin named Maude....

We are packing up the tour vehicle for a quick visit to So. Cal (it's an upscale yuppy wagon so I am going to add antlers, which now means it needs a name- If you have any great name idea's email me at guitartam@gmail.com include your name recommendation and your mailing address- If we select your name we'll mail you a Saloon Tour music package- and promise to send you pictures of the wild Aussie Americana road show...

GREAT CATERING COMPANY IN OAKLAND

2008-09-24T15:28:00.000-07:00

I just discovered a fabulous new catering company based out of Oakland called BAY LEAF CATERING www.bayleafcatering.com 510.888.3998
Bay Leaf Catering is headquartered in Oakland and is a full service catering company serving the San Francisco Bay Area.
offering corporate, special event and social catering services.

Their site indicates:
With over ten years of experience we are committed to providing fine quality food and a professional hand selected staff for each event.
At Bay Leaf Catering we plan a party both you and your guests will enjoy.
Each event is carefully customized.
Your ideas and our expertise will create just the right menu because Entertaining is an art. It requires thought, planning and patience, fabulous food and of course.... fun!

We love food. & Love people enjoying our food we pride our self on using the freshest & best seasonal produce obtained daily from quality local markets and pride ourselves in making all dishes from scratch providing the very best in produce, menus, service & professionalism.
Our gracious service is highlighted by the most delicious food.
Be a guest at your own party and leave the work to us.

From a dining perspective I found their food extremely fresh, lovingly prepared, with a fantastic presentation.
I totally recommend them, and will actually be using them in my holiday party planning- There are so many options of great food vendors available in the bay area. These folks aren't the biggest, however, their food will win over the most particular SF foodie I suggest you try them too!

Gasoline Soaked Acoustic Rock Duo

2008-08-28T09:03:00.001-07:00

Two great shows not to miss in Sept:

Featuring Tamra Engle & Jeni Day

9/19 Caffe Trieste
2500 San Pablo Ave (next to good vibezzzzzzz)
Berkeley, Ca. 8pm

9/20 Kayak & Beach Concert 9:30-6pm
Kayak in the Monterey Bay (meet cute girls or bring your own!)
followed by a amazing beach concert
for details and registration go to:
http://bluewaterventures.org/MoreInfo2.htm

About the artists:
TAMRA ENGLE: An award winning singer/songwriter who's latest release The Blonde Flame Sessions was on the
nominating ballot for the 50th annual Grammy awards. Her sound has the rock sensibilities of Fleetwood Mac & the folk edge of early Neil Young. Her music has been placed in films, TV, & commercials: www.tamraengle.com

JENI DAY: Singer/Songwriter Indie-Music.com warns "if you aren't stirred or moved in some way by Day's guitar playing, then
you must really check for a pulse." As humble in person as she is badass with a bick in hand Jeni will soon have you saying "Girl's aren't supposed to play guitar like that!" Yeah RIGHT!