Monday, November 4, 2002 11:19 am 

Dr. Finbar Hides from a Hydra.


Hello Finbar-Conscripts,

In this issue of the Finbar Express, we tell you about last week, this 
week, the next Finbar competition, and show you what you can learn 
online about songwriting.

LAST WEEK

On Saturday we mixed the three songs for our demo CD. The day began 
amicably, but soon degenerated. Here is a sample of the conversation:

"I think that part's a bit loud."
"Which part?"
"*That* part."
"Bullsh*t."

"The backing vocals are too quiet here."
"We're not mixing it again."
"What was the point of recording it if no one can hear it?"
"I can't be arsed."

A highlight of the day was a pose that Sam struck, just for a moment. 
He sat transfixed behind the mixing console, hands poised to go in 
several different directions at once if need be. For an instant his 
eyes blazed with intense concentration and total competence.

Then it was gone.

THIS WEEK

We had a rehearsal on Sunday, just to confirm how rusty and inept we 
have become during Sam's absence. Fortunately, we have retained some 
basic mechanical aptitudes, so we are going to play this Thursday at 
(you guessed it) the world famous Yak Speakeasy, 160 Hoddle St., 
Abbotsford (close to Collingwood Station). Acts start from about 8.15.

THE DR. FINBAR COMPETITION Mk. II

We're getting access to the digital camera this week, so with a little 
luck, the competition will be unfurled in all its glory next week.

IS THIS GOOD ADVICE?

I subscribe to newsletter called the Songwriter's Tip Jar. As someone 
who tries to crank out the odd song here and there, it's worth seeing 
what people have to say about songwriting - especially since at times 
it feels like a bit of a dark art.

Often, the newsletter discusses how you should sell yourself as a 
songwriter. I thought I would reproduce a snippet of their advice for 
your edification:

\begin quote

Stay with me now as I go completely around the bend. Even
if you can't play an instrument, I recommend that you carry
around an instrument case as a form of advertising, and
that's free advertising. The instrument case instantly
identifies you as a musician. (And yes, songwriters are
real musicians, even if they don't sing or play an
instrument.)

When people ask you about your case (and they will), you can
say 'I only use the guitar/fiddle/accordian to write songs.
Songwriting is my main thing.' Then, if they're still
listening, continue with your one sentence promo. At this
point, I'll dare to repeat, if they haven't completely blown
you off, now is a good time to whip out your business card.

\end quote

Do you think I should continue to subscribe to this newsletter?


That's all for now. Have an immoderate week,

The Dr. Finbar Trio.