Performers

Alan, Alex, Bill, Bob, Chico, Chris, Chuck, Clem, Craig, Cynthia, Dave, Del, Diana, Eileen, Ernie, Franco, Frank, Gary C, Gary D, Gary K, Gloria, Grant, Hammer, Hermann, James, James G, Janet, Jannie, Jerry, Joseph H, Joe W, John P, John V, Judy, Julio, Kees, Ken, Kieth, Larry T, Larry W, Laura, Lynn, Manoj, Mark, Mike C,Mike S, Neal, Oz & Sandra, Patrica H, Patrica J, Patrick, Pauline, Peter, Richard, Rocco, Ron, Royce, Steve, Sunny, Susie, Ton, Torben, Udo, Vince, Wally

(July, 2012) I retired in 2006 as a university professor in special education. I live in Oxford, Mississippi.

Musical Background

My earliest musical experiences started in church, with much exposure to vocal music. Then, early-on, came a lot of radio listening (pre TV days) that included Saturday night rituals with the Grand Ole Opry. Three years of piano instruction during the elementary years was a good start, but I soon drifted away due to the intrusion of sports. Then, in high school, I picked up the ukulele, which quickly led to my first guitar. In college (early 60's), I was around guys starting a band playing hits of the day. The electric guitar and bass drew most of my interest and, shortly, I was in my first group, The Shamrocks.

Countless gigs over the years have certified my addiction to music and the love of live music in particular. Along the way, I developed an interest in multitrack home recording. Much gear later (reel-to-reel, cassette, to digital), I recently made the plunge into computer-based recording. Wow, what a learning curve for a non-techie! The primary purpose of recording was to create backing tracks to solo with on guitar. That introduced me to Band In A Box and, now, arranger keyboards. I've owned many arrangers, including Roland, Technics, and several Yamahas, most recently the S910.

In retirement, I play solo several nights a week at a private dining club, a blend of vocals and instrumentals. This experience has allowed me to move from guitar to playing keyboard more often. My play list includes everything from the 1920's through the 70's. The Great American Songbook, 50's to 70's pop tunes, and classic country fit the ambience of the room and interest of listeners and dancers for the most part. Occasionally, I'll add a more contemporary tune if it sits well within the play list. For special occasions and events, musician friends join me for duos, trios, up to a 10-piece group, including two vocalists. I'm basically an "ear" player, but do read chord charts and melody lines rather easily.

The PSR site, with its contributors, has been very helpful in providing needed information. I've purchased several of the products offered by Joe and found them useful. I hope this site will be around for a long time to come.