On The Fly

Guitar Center, Sunset Blvd., Hollywood “Your taking guitar lessons at 60?” Absolutely! It’s my way of always learning something new and having some fun in the process. “Haven’t you ever heard the cliche, You can’t teach an old dog new tricks?” “Of course, but let me be completely clear,” Education is not a bag of tricks and humans are not dogs. Some resemble their  ole’ dog, anyway . . .  For years I heard that platitude from students who would use it as excuse for not being able to successfully learn a new skill to their satisfaction or expectation . Agreed, learning a new skill is challenging. Let’s be honest, it’s downright hard. We tend to get entrenched in our comfortable ruts. Think back a minute. Remember what it was like to learn to ride a bicycle? It was exhilarating! Well, maybe not at first. Did you have training wheels? I’m sorry. What happened when your Dad removed those training wheels. I’ll bet you fell - over and over again. But with...

“Para bailar La Bamba -  Para bailar La Bamba . . .” Podcast - What the Cat Heard . . .  If you’re reading this post you may recognize the lyrics to the adaptation of the Mexican folk song, La Bamba , released October 18, 1958, by Richie Valens. I’m certain, listening to this tune played on the guitar you would quickly find yourself tapping your toe to the beat. And doing your best to sing along. Me, I’m still wondering what the cat heard? Cat lovers out there maybe you can provide some insight.   While playing the introduction to La Bamba, my cat (Junior), jumps to my shoulders, needles a little, settles in, and meows in my ear. I suppose if he could talk he would say: “Dude, how many times do you have to repeat the same segment to get it right?” No doubt, his comments might be a lot more entertaining than listening to me attempt this catchy tune on my guitar. Allow met to set the stage. Every morning I strap on my guitar, check the tuning, and begin to practice. For fl...