I had a wonderful experience yesterday morning. Linda, my old voice teacher gave me a call a few days before, saying she was going to sing at a Christmas party, and could I run sound for her.
Now, whenever I can, I jump at a chance to mix for her. Let me tell you the story. Several years ago, in '98, I think. No, '99. Summer of '99. Anyway, I had started the Mark Hansen Music website (it was called "A Joyful Noise" back then), and I was doing some gigs. I was discovering that I was a lousy singer! I'd sign up for shows at festivals in the summer, and after three or four songs, my voice was shredded. I can only imagine what the audience was going through.
My wife was an old friend of Linda's sister, so we knew the family pretty well. I called her to see about her prices. As we negotiated, we talked about doing the lessons on trade, where I would do sound for her, and any studio work she or a student needed. For years that went on, and I think that she got the bad end of that deal. She gave me far more in lessons than I ever gave her back.
Plus, she gave me confidence. How can you pay someone back for that?
Anyway, About a year and a half ago, for some reason, the lessons stopped. I don't really remember why. I think it was some scheduling issues, and then I figured she was done with essentially giving me free lessons. She called a few times to do some recording or have me set up a PA for her. And in the meantime, I keep using the practice CD's I'd made of our lessons to work out.
So, she called me to do this Christmas gig, and like always, I jump at the chance to "even out the ledgers" a little bit. We got to talking. She's going through a bit of a rough time, and it was fun to listen to her through that. And at the end of it all, she asked me to call and set up another lesson. I thought that was nice of her. She certainly didn't have to do that. I'm not sure if I will, because she certainly doesn't need ONE MORE student with her current stresses.
But it sure would be great!
Anyway, so I guess this post is a tribute to her and all she gave me. I mean, I'm still far from a great singer, but I'm a lot better than I ever was before, thanks to her instruction and patience.
Mark Hansen Music - LDS Rock Music - Free Downloads
Mark Hansen Music - LDS Rock Music - Free Downloads
Get the new CD, "The Third Time" HERE
WARNING: Listening to this music doesn't require parental approval. It's a bit of clean rebellion. It keeps your outlook up and your hope alive. It's got strong drums and screaming guitars. It pumps you up and drives your life. It's a hunger for exploration. It chooses the right and returns with honor. It's music you don't have to confess to your bishop. It's "A Joyful Noise" |
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