Music & Beyond…
Scroll down for information on my 3 upcoming shows and some personal recommendations, but first my latest ruminations…Author David Korten talks about ! the Great Turning in his book: The Great Turning: from Empire to Earth Community. He says “…that we humans are a choice making species that at this defining moment face both the opportunity and the imperative to choose our future as a conscious collective act.” In this “defining moment,” I’d like my part to be using my music as a vehicle for connecting people to each other and ideas. There is possibly no more important time for civic involvement than right now…from the upcoming elections to lowering your carbon footprint. For anyone paying attention, it’s obvious we cannot sustain our current way of living. If we are ever to turn around the rapid degradation of the earth and its people and resources, we will need to strengthen our communities by building social capital, but of course that happens one person at a time. It begins with each of us making a special effort at relationship, which is not always easy to do in our fast-paced and over committed culture. In my few discretionary moments, I’m much more comfortable with a book, my guitar and a warm fire. I could easily make it as a reclusive cynic, but I know that I must reach out in order to understand, to find meaning, to change myself, my community, the world…
My favorite gigs are the ones where I meet new people and know that my music was responsible for making other connections happen. So with that said, at my show on Feb. 22 (see below), I would like for everyone who attends to bring a book that has inspired them or given their life meaning. You can bring one already collecting dust on your shelf, or buy a new copy. My hope is that you will make a connection to someone at the gig to whom you would like to give your book. If you forget to bring a book, the gig is at a bookstore! If you don’t read much, bring a story to share…I borrowed this idea from John Crowley, visionary Irishman from Petaluma who created the pub crawl as a way to build social capital. I will be playing in March at his new shop, the Aqus Cafe.
Upcoming Performances
Friday, February 22nd, 7pm – 9pm
North Light Books & Cafe (next to Oliver’s Market)
550 E. Cotati Ave., Cotati CA. 94931
707.792.4300
Great Coffee, Beer & Books…what else do you need! My parents are coming all the way from Missouri to this show so come on out and show some California love…and don’t forget to bring a new or used book to give away (read above)!
Saturday, March 8th, 10:30am – 12:30pm
189 H Street, Petaluma, CA.
707.778.6060
John Crowley’s new Cafe…a must visit in Petaluma…and yes, that’s 10:30am!
Friday, March 14th, 8:00pm – 11:30pm
2074 Armory Dr., Santa Rosa, CA. 95401
707.546.ROSE
This is a Robert E. / Five A.M. joint production
Maybe your last chance to see 5AM in a venue this small!
Check out Five A.M.s new web site and video. They are really doing some progressive work for peace with their music; check out their web site and the “Love” link. Their music is something everyone should listen to lyrically and melodically. The video is something every group/family should have a discussion about. You can get to the video at their web site or go to youtube and punch in five am.
Check out the Leadership Institute for Ecology and the Economy. This year long leadership training program on sustainability and social change has been a powerful experience and motivator for personal change. If you’re interested in applying, go to the web site above.
Read the book, “The Impossible Will Take A Little While,” by author Paul Loeb. It’s a fantastic and inspiring collection of essays by some of the world’s greatest authors, visionaries and leaders. I’m using it in my classes this spring and would love to get your feedback. Paul will be speaking at SRJC on April 14th.
After hearing Mark Inman speak, the charismatic co-owner of Taylor Maid Farms coffees and teas, I highly recommend that you buy his brand the next time you need your fix. His company really does it the right way. They pay at least a living wage for all employees, no matter the job; they buy beans from only farmers using sustainable agriculture with 100% organic coffee; they use low emission coffee roasters; and package all their coffees in recyclable steel. Support your local coffee wholesaler.
And no, I don’t have a recording yet or a website of my material, but I’m working on it…
Hope to see you at a show this spring, Robert E.
Advertisement
Like this:
Be the first to like this post.
Robert and Amy – hope this gets to you. I just wanted to let you both know how much I and my kids and my friend Suz enjoyed the show on Friday at Northlight!!! I hate to admit it but I used your shin dig to see if my kids could behave and enjoy the music at the same time. They keep asking me to take them to shows but I alwasy et he “I’m bored” whiney thing. But they had fun, were very good and want to see you again. I am a long time friend and huge supporter of Mr. Hammer. In fact I named my son after him because he made such a wonderful impression, as a peron, on me. Zach has led me down a wonderful musical path that I am and will be forever grateful. I have seen you perform quite a few times and have enjoyed every minute of it. As I said I do have a CD – Whcih I will bring for yu to sign if that’s ok. As I was listening to you two sing and play, and at the same time trying to keep one eye on my two trouble makers, I thought I want to be in your living room for a day and just watch you perform. I can only imagine what wonderful energy must come within your home. Your daughter is absolutly adorable. My daughter was jealous. She too has a pink guitar and likes to rock out – doesn’t know how to play….yet. But she rocks. Sings, dances, acts ( the drama queen) so wanted to get up on stage with you and play. Your son is a huge supporter as well! Anyway, sorry, got off track. I really just wanted to say thank you for sharing your music with us. It was a magical and wonderous setting. You have a lot of support and for good reason! I will be there on the 14th along with a few recruters. Can’t wait! Take care and it was very nice meeting you both. Have a wonderful week!
Sincerely – Karri Kenoyer
By: Karri Kenoyer on February 25, 2008
at 11:50 pm