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INTERESTED in learning guitar or drums, or want to improve your existing skills?
Fret Music in Church Street, Shirley, Southampton have arranged a series of
in-store events to appeal to current customers and complete novices alike.
Some of the key people in the retail music business and experienced musicians
will be visiting the store from October 31 to November 17.
Most of the events happen in store during the day from 10 to 5.00pm,
starting with a novel idea on Friday October 31 - a “Riffathon.” Hatched by rock
legend Jimmy Page, a “Riffathon” gives budding guitarists a chance to play
guitar in front of a panel of judges in Fret Music’s store. The winner goes
through to the national finals where the overall winner will be presented with a
guitar by the man himself.
The programme continues with a Taster Day on November 1, when resident drum and
guitar teachers will be on hand to give practical demonstrations. Sunday
November 2 sees a demonstration of Line 6 amplifiers featuring Jake Paland from
successful German rock band "Victory" from 11.00 am to 3.00pm, with Gibson and
Epiphone Guitars featured the next day, plus Tama drums and Shure and Phonic PA.
Over the following two weeks loads more demonstrations and guests have been
lined up including Eddie Allan, Guitarist Magazine founder, Arbiter Drums
getting a pounding from former Argent drummer Bob Henrit, and many more
attractions before the rock event finishes on November 17 with a Mapex drum
clinic.
This event costs £3, as does a guitar clinic with former member of The Band,
Artie Traum, on November 13. The rest of the events are free - for more details
ring Fret Music on 02380 774433, or see their website www.fretmusic.co.uk
(©Peter Ashton 2003)
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As
from this month Playing Out Loud will have regular space in AND Magazine, the
publication that tells you what’s on and where it’s at along the South Coast. We
will be highlighting the best live music playing out loud during the autumn and
welcome input through this website. The next edition of AND covers October and
November and the deadline for December is December 20, so info to me by December
13 at the latest. (©Peter
Ashton 2003)
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Two
talented singers and guitarists get together for an evening of superb
entertainment next month. Gordon Haskell and Robbie MacIntosh join forces for a
one-off concert at the Waterside Theatre, Holbury on Saturday November 22.
Hamish Stuart was to have joined them but has had to cancel due to other
commitments. Gordon, the man who hit the charts with “How Wonderful You Are”
almost two years ago from the hit album "Harry’s Bar" needs no introduction to
his legions of friends and admirers across the South. This is one of his only UK
appearances this year. Robbie is a former member of Paul McCartney’s band, and
has worked with many other artists including The Pretenders. Gordon meanwhile is
still trying to forget his time with King Crimson! Tickets priced £12.50 for the
seated gig at the 300 capacity venue are selling fast. Ring 02380 207900 right
away to avoid disappointment.
(©Peter
Ashton 2003)
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A man from way down yonder in New Orleans plays The Platform Tavern down by
Southampton’s Town Quay on Tuesday November 11. Originally from Wyoming, Spencer
Bohren is a man whose music is firmly rooted in gospel and blues. An excellent
guitarist and a distinctive vocalist, Spencer has been on the road for over
thirty years singing his songs reflecting his experiences. Learning from
performers like the eccentric Rev Gary Davis early in his career, and
subsequently immersing himself in the music and atmosphere of New Orleans,
Spencer has recorded seven albums including his latest “Carry The Word.” For
more details ring 02380 337232.
