Jim Hudak: News

Cities And Their Sports Teams

Finally it’s here. The much anticipated football playoff game between the Saints and the 49ers will start in less than three hours. The game will be played in classic Northern California January weather: Sunny, cloudless skies with temperatures near 60. Sports fans watching from back east will once again see a sun-drenched field and camera shots of boats on San Francisco Bay. They’ll have one more reason to reinforce their hatred (read: jealousy) of all things Californian.

This city is excited. Even my wife, not a big sports fan, is into the drama and anticipation. It never ceases to amaze me how a sports team captures a city when its citizens can proclaim that “their” team is doing well. It’s ridiculous, really, to think that the hometown team is a reflection of who we are – individually or collectively. Yet, that’s what happens – to sports fans and non-sports fans alike. We’re all in.

It’s almost like the Santa Claus myth. As kids we believe in Santa almost without question. Then, as we grow up, we still allow the magic to happen – the lie to masquerade as truth – if only for the sake of our own kids and their pure, unbridled joy.

In the case of a playoff football game, (yes, it’s just a game), we allow ourselves to be represented by a group of young men in their 20’s and 30’s. Ideally they have a strong-minded leader in their coach as the figurehead. The 49ers had that in their glory years of the 1980’s with grey-haired Wise Man Bill Walsh. They’ve got a mad-genius leader now in Jim Harbaugh, the 48-year old, first-year coach who’s exceeded all expectations. His team’s remarkable success this season, with a 13 Win 3 Loss record, is virtually unheard of for a rookie coach. Even the great Walsh was 2-14 in his first season and 6-10 in his second before winning a Super Bowl in his third year as coach.

Coach Harbaugh’s visage is blown up on the front pages of this morning’s Bay Area newspapers. As I found myself staring not only at his countenance, but at his “sports” wristwatch, which happens to be like the one I wear. I thought I must be pretty cool to have the same wristwatch as Harbaugh. See how that “identity” thing can get out of hand?

Perhaps the funniest thing about this whole notion of a city tying its identity to its sports teams is how every city does it. Not only the perceived “world class” cities of New York, Chicago, and San Francisco, but also for smaller, industrial oriented cities without the cache of their glamorous big city cousins. Indeed, I have lived in both Pittsburgh and Cleveland, two of America’s most belittled big cities, (unfairly, I must add, as they’re both great places), and believe me, their residents are every bit as passionate about their sports teams as any other city’s. Maybe even more so.

When the Steelers do well, as they usually do, the city goes crazy. You almost get the sense that the deliriously happy Pittsburgh fans are saying,“See! We’re not only as good as you are, we’re BETTER!

The other comical aspect of big sporting events is that inevitably, there’s a winner and a loser. God forbid if the 49ers lose today. How scandalous of me to even consider it. But just in case they do lose, we will watch the collective air pour out of the city’s psychic balloon in a very short time. When the game ends, the angry sports-talk radio callers will be jamming the phone lines with a vengeance. These need-to-get-a-life types will find every reason imaginable to fault Coach Harbaugh
and his players. How quickly we forget.

Games where the winners and losers are separated by only a point are especially fascinating. That fine line between winning and losing, often coming down to a single play, makes all the difference in how the hardcore sports fan feels after the game. They’ll either feel triumphant, perpetuating their “superiority” identification, or upset and bloodthirsty for someone to blame.

Yes, it’s an inappropriate identification, yet it’s the essential dynamic between a city and its sports teams. When you think about it, it’s somewhere between being surreal and foolish, but it’s just the way it is.

You can see why the monetary value of owning a sports team just keeps going up. Seemingly more than any other investment. There’s not a single National Football League or Major League Baseball team whose value hasn’t risen substantially in any five-year period in my lifetime. It just shows the deeply seated fervor of sports fans. It’s also indicative of the identity virtually all of us assume, at least on some level, with “our” city’s teams. When our team does well, after all, it sort of justifies our living there.

When I wake up tomorrow, it won’t really matter whether the 49ers will have won or lost today. But now, in anticipation of the first playoff game in San Francisco in nine years, you could cut the local excitement level with a knife.

Go Niners!

JH
1/14/12

Though we must protect our sources, let it be known that secret talks are taking place for a possible performance by Jim Hudak with The Shillz on New Year's Eve.

The East Bay band, recently "discoverd" by Hudak and written about on this website in his 11/22/11 News entry, will be performing at the Wild Vine in Danville on December 31st, bringing in the new year. It's at least possible that Hudak will join them for a few songs, providing keyboards, a second guitar, and vocals to the energetic group.

As details emerge, we'll post them here on Jim Hudak's website. But it's something to think about in the meantime, and it could make for a very interesting musical collaboration.

Stay tuned!

For a landmark 10th successive year, Jim Hudak will perform at Vic Stewart’s Restaurant in Walnut Creek, CA throughout December. The legendary steakhouse, located in what was a train depot building in the early 1900’s, welcomes back the versatile musician for its “Christmas Luncheon” schedule from December 5th until Christmas.

“I always look forward to playing at Vic’s,” Hudak said upon securing this year’s engagement. “The atmosphere, uniqueness of the building and its history, and the large and devoted clientele make it a special place to play piano.”

While performing “a fair number of holiday songs,” Hudak is known for his inimitable mix of music and genres, from pop music to jazz, classical, country, and more than a few of his own compositions. “I try to make it pretty seamless as I go from song to song,” he says. It’s not unusual for me to go from Duke Ellington to The Kinks to The Mormon Tabernacle Choir, while sandwiching my own songs in there, too. People seem to enjoy the presentation.”

Vic Stewart’s normally is a dinner house only. December marks an exception to their schedule. They open for lunch from 11:30 AM till 2 PM Monday through Friday, particularly catering to the businesses who take their employees out for a “Christmas lunch.” Many businesses large and small return to Vic’s year after year for the special occasion.

The restaurant is ideally suited for businesses of all sizes, offering several compartmentalized rooms with various seating capacities. Groups from eight to eighty are easily accommodated.

While he didn’t manage to finish his new CD of piano based music in time for this year’s holidays, Jim Hudak will have five of his CD’s available for sale at Vic Stewart’s throughout the engagement. His Christmas song, “Let’s Trim The Christmas Tree,” is also available online as a digital download.

Check out one of California’s most enduring restaurants, and one of its most significant musicians, this month at Vic’s. For reservations, call (925) 943-5666.

Last Saturday night in Danville at The Wild Vine, I had the pleasure of hearing a band new to my ears, called The Shillz. Though they usually perform as a quartet, they were a trio on this night, playing without their bass player. But all three musicians contributed their talents in a way that maximized their three-person lineup.

What I saw featured Camden Wheeler on lead vocals and tambourine, Dave Carter on guitar and vocals, and Holly (last name?) on drums and percussion. They've got a unique sound built around roots music, covering the range between Blues,
Rock, and R&B, in a pleasing, seamless fashion.

The Shillz worked in some original songs that sounded just fine, interspersed with good covers from The Kinks, Beatles, Stones, and more.

Their style is infectious. Camden has confidence, charisma, and, hey, guess what? She's got the chops, too. A fine singer who draws you in with her performance.

Dave is the consummate rhythm guitarist. It was cool watching him carry the band with his guitar, without another instrumentalist to lean on. But he pulled it off. He and Camden traded songs and vocals, and harmonized well together, too.

Holly's brand new to the band. But offhand, she looks like a keeper. There's something compelling about a band with two women in it. She smiles a lot, having fun, but Holly more than holds her own rhythmically, too. She provided a tasteful pulse behind the vocals and guitar.

It was refreshing seeing players who genuinely loved what they were doing. Infectious enthusiasm flowed throughout the small club, and the dance floor was full most of the time.

Discovering new music and bands can be a real joy. I look forward to catching The Shillz in action again sometime soon.

As I return from my first ever period of "extended time off" for health reasons, I feel a sense of exuberence. The old cliche that we don't know what we have till it's gone certainly applies when it comes to health.

Never have I appreciated the complexity and the self-curing capabilities of my own body like I do now. Happily, in conjunction with a solid team of professionals in the medical field, my health and strength are returning. I started performing again earlier this week, with a busy schedule planned as we approach the holidays.

Without getting too in depth here, I will just say that my most urgent problem recently had been my kidneys. They had malfunctioned to a serious extent, and we were afraid we might lose these vital organs so necessary to life itself. But with a few days spent in the hospital and lots of intravenous fluids, we saved them. The extended rest I was able to get (thanks in large part to the outstanding caregiving from my wife, Linda) really helped. I'm ready to get back in the saddle and start making music again.

Once again it looks like finishing my Christmas album will have to wait. Next year for sure! However, we may release another Christmas song or two this year, to go with last year's well received "Let's Trim The Christmas Tree," which is available from iTunes and other digital stores.

Otherwise, I've been working on some songs with my longtime songwriting partner, Dan Erikson. In fact, we're working on a new Christmas song that I'm quite excited about.

Besides Christmas music, there's a batch of new songs I hope to spring upon the world in the near future. I plan on working closely with my recording engineer, Jon Lesher, to get these songs arranged and recorded. It's nice to feel my strength and energy returning!

Thanks to all those who have sent their well wishes and support. It means a lot to me, and I look forward to getting back to my normal routine now.

Remember this: Take care of your health. Make it your highest priority.

Best wishes to everyone...

Jim Hudak

July 28, 2011

Ted Hudak – 1928 – 2011

Ted Hudak was a man of greatness. His story represents that of the old school adage “Pull yourself up by the boot straps and become a success.” He did that, in many ways.

Born the youngest of seven children to a poor family in rural Minnesota, Ted came West in the late 1940’s, with little money but a lot of quiet determination. Working his way through a series of odd jobs and a stint in the military, he married Rita Schultz in 1951 and bore two sons: Jim, in 1952, and Don in 1956. Through hard work and genuine goodness, he achieved true prosperity.

Building a 40-year career as an accomplished hardware salesman, Ted traveled throughout Western Oregon and Washington, developing a large territory of hardware stores. He referred to those store owners – his customers – as his friends. He’d never steer them wrong.

Known as the rock of his own and his extended family, Ted was a man who gave and gave, never asking for anything in return. If a friend or relative needed assistance, financially or otherwise, Ted was there to quietly help. He visited and nurtured the sick, buried the dead, and provided inspiration to those who simply needed to talk or who sought his advice. As much as anything, he instilled confidence in those who knew him. He was someone who everyone trusted.

Ted was a wonderful father, husband, and a friend to many. He loved sports, geography, history, and the outdoors. From the 49ers to the Trailblazers, he was as loyal to his sports teams as he was to friends and family. His intellect was broad, and he was well read in a wide range of subjects.

A fine musician and music appreciator, Ted enjoyed all styles of good music. From bluegrass to jazz to The Mormon Tabernacle Choir, he cherished music that moved him. He played a strong boogie-woogie piano that he picked up in his teenage years after studying violin as a youth. His warm baritone voice could be used with strength and without strain for those lucky enough to hear him sing on occasion. More than display his own talent, he nurtured and encouraged the musical ability in his two sons. To him, music strengthened the mind and the spirit, and sports, the body.

Ted despised arrogance. He championed the underdog, pulling for anyone who, like himself, went the extra mile and displayed character and a strong work ethic. He overcame his physical ailments without complaint, and with a warm and uplifting sense of humor that always lightened the mood.

Perhaps as much as anything, Ted’s gentleness filled the room with ease and joy. A large man, his likeable presence could be like that of a big teddy bear. It’s hard to imagine him with any enemies or detractors. His sixty years of marriage shows his love and commitment to Rita, and their home was the gathering place for countless family get-togethers.

Ted died quietly in his sleep this week. It was a fitting, tranquil way for him to go, though he will be missed by many. May he rest in peace.

As fortune had it, I was able to attend the opening night of the first tour in 44 years by Buffalo Springfield. The recently renovated Fox Theatre in Oakland, CA provided the ideal setting for this one of a kind band. One was reminded of the timelessness of outstanding songwriting and uniquely great musical arrangements.

Neil Young, Steve Stills, and Richie Furay are the surviving members of the original Springfield, formed in Los Angeles in 1967. They shared the spotlight more or less equally on this June 1st performance, each one taking turns showcasing his original songs.

Their camaradarie and pure joy of trading guitar riffs and vocal harmonies was evident immediately. Their signature sound came through loud and clear, all these years later.

Literal tears of joy were visible among the sold out crowd during some of the show's more moving songs. Never mind the predominently gray haired, balding, pot bellied fan base (average age of those in attendance was roughly 60). This was a no-holds barred evening as the songs reaffirmed the values and committment to great music that many of us grew up with in the 60's and 70's. The performers sensed it, and they, too reveled in the still beautiful compositions that kept coming over the 100-minute concert.

Highlights were a hard rocking, high volume rendition of "Mr. Soul," "Bluebird," "Rock and Roll Woman," and "Nowadays Clancy Can't Even Sing." But there were no duds on this magical musical journey and a night everyone in attendance will likely remember forever.

Gillian Welch opened the show with her fine musical partner, Dave Rawlings. They squeeze more sound out of two guitars and two harmonious voices than practically anyone, and provided a nice setup for what was to come soon after with the incomparable Buffalo Springfield.

JH

Brainstorm Records, Jim Hudak's independent label, reports that sales of digital downloads continue to outperform CD's in annual revenues. This is part of a nationwide movement that shows consumers are more apt to download songs or albums to their iPods and music playback devices than they are to buy CD's.

"There's nothing surprising about this news," Hudak commented recently. "Our little record label is no different than most other labels in that music lovers aren't as apt to purchase the physical product as they are to load up their iPods with digital music. There's a lot to be said for being able to take your entire music library with you wherever you go. For many people, that means thousands of songs fit into a device the size of their shirt pocket."

Brainstorm Records plans to make two more of Jim Hudak's CD's available for purchase by download over the next several months. Hudak also hopes to have his long awaited Christmas album, tentatively titled "A Piano Christmas," available sometime this fall. The Christmas album will be available in both the digital download format as well as on CD.

"For someone who grew up loving the art of album covers, it's a bit difficult to comprehend the whole concept of digital downloads, " Hudak admits. "But from a record label's perspective, it's great to not have to manufacture and store inventory, at least not in large quantities. You can print up a short run of CD's without having to intrude on closet or garage space, which is nice for independent labels like ours. For each release, you anticipate going in that most of your sales will come from downloads. Nowadays small runs of CD's are not only available, but much more cost effective than they were 10 or 20 years ago."

Sales figures weren't available as of this writing, but Hudak reports that for Brainstorm Records, digital sales currently outperform CD sales by about a four to one margin. He still sees the need and some demand for CD's but feels it's just a matter of time before CD's and CD players become obsolete.

Hi Everyone!

After an absence, we're back. With some exciting news, no less.

For the past four months, my nearly 14-year ongoing engagement at Round Hill Country Club has taken on a new dimension. At the end of 2010, the management there offered me the opportunity for a special and ongoing Thursday night engagement that was too good to pass up. I wanted to give it a chance to prosper, as it was an experiment that we weren't sure would work. But I feel good enough about it now to mention it here on my website.

We decided to call it Folk Meets Jazz Night at Round Hill. It allows me to showcase the full extent of my musical interests.

Every Thursday night at the club (except for the third Thursday of the month), I do three sets of music from 6 until 9 PM. The difference is that besides piano, I also add vocals and guitar to my presentation. I add a lot more of my original compositions to the program, and so far, the club members and their guests have given me nothing but positive feedback.

We're hoping that Thursday nights at Round Hill will evolve to where we bring in special guest artists to perform, perhaps with some jamming and musical exchanges of talents and ideas.

This is a revolutionary concept for a country club. It was the brainchild of Bradly Kaderabek, the Food and Beverage Director, to add a night of music with a "different" feel than what the club offers on weekends.

Traditionally, country clubs feature piano music, perhaps with some variation, which is still a popular attraction. But Bradly's "think outstide the box" idea allows for a unique blend of originality and creativity not often heard or seen in a country club setting.

On Thursday nights, I find myself playing lots of standards and jazzy tunes as piano instrumentals, then adding vocals to more contemporary songs from a wide range of artists. Adding my original songs to the mix gives the performances a new flavor.

When I perform on guitar, I play a lot of James Taylor, Bob Dylan, Johnny Cash, and songs from a whole bunch of other artists, along with my own music. This portion of the show has a folk-rock-country vibe about it, and it takes me back to my musical roots. These are the types of perfomances I used to render in grade school, high school, and college, and it feels good to be able to offer a wide range of music for my friends at Round Hill.

If you're a club member, come on down on a Thursday night. If you're not a member, perhaps you know someone who is and you can attend as their guest.

In any case, it's fun to be providing different types and genres of music in the best way I know how. Thanks to Bradly and to Round Hill for helping to make it happen.

Jim

For the ninth successive year, Vic Stewart's Restaurant in Walnut Creek, CA has booked pianist Jim Hudak for the holiday season. Jim will perform Monday through Friday from 11:30 AM until 2 PM through December 24th.

An institution in Walnut Creek, Vic's began operation in 1993 and is famous for its steaks and seafood. Jim Hudak began performing there in 2002 and has played every year since then. He mixes traditional and contemporary holiday music with his own original compositions and songs from the Great American Songbook. He's also know to perform songs that "you don't often hear on the piano," featuring music from artists as diverse as Pink Floyd, Burt Bacharach, and The Kinks, among many others.

Vic Stewart's has a loyal following and is the site for many corporate and office "Christmas Luncheons" during December, which is the only time that the restaurant opens for lunch. They are located at 850 South Broadway in Walnut Creek, across the street from the Broadway Plaza Shopping Plaza. Make your reservation by calling (925) 943-5666.

Two new Christmas recordings by Jim Hudak are featured on the Sugo Music CD titled "Christmas Piano." The disc features piano recordings from four internationally acclaimed pianists including Jim Hudak. Jim's contributions to the record include the songs "Winter Wonderland" and "Do You Hear What I Hear." Click on the link http://www.sugomusic.com/thechristmaspiano.html to order the CD. It's priced at only $9.99 and you can use your credit card to order a wonderful Christmas gift for family or friends.

Both of these songs will be included on Jim's own Christmas CD, which he hopes to have completed in time for Christmas this year. That album will include three original compositions and an outstanding collection of both well known and obscure Christmas songs. Check back for updates on the completion of this CD in the very near future.

On a 90-degree Sunday afternoon at the foot of Mount Diablo, The Clayton Club Saloon played host to a gathering of local musical talent unprecedented in this town of 11,000. The vibe was upbeat, positive, and energetic, and the musical spirit of camaraderie strong and true. Everyone involved seemed determined to make this thing work, and work it did.

While I spearheaded the concept, without the help of lots of willing hands, it wouldn’t have happened. Thanks have been and are hereby extended again to all who helped, and talk is already underway to make the second annual MATM even bigger and better than the first one. There are too many names to mention here, among the nearly 20 musicians, The Clayton Club staff and lots of volunteers. But the wonderful help and participation among so many individuals was moving.

Accordingly, here’s one man’s take on some of the day’s highlights, musically and otherwise:

The Clayton Club isn’t a large venue. It has perhaps 35 chairs, a dance floor, and a low ceiling full of suspended pairs of cowboy boots. (The boots represent their own unique story for another time). A classic western saloon, though not exactly a venue tailor-made for music.

Yet, the club has a long, proud music tradition, with live music three nights a week and Karaoke on a fourth. Typically, many who come to hear the music end up standing, and this day was no exception. Fortunately, there’s a large patio area outside, where the club’s staff and volunteers kept cooking and serving a steady stream of food: Polish dogs, Tri-Tip, Ribs, and good salads – made available to all in attendance. Picnic tables outside seat over 100 additional patrons.

Under sweltering conditions, we managed to jam musical instruments and their cases into every corner we could find, and Maggie’s Farm took the stage on time for our 2 PM start. They played admirably, opening the festivities with unique cover songs including Chains, Ring Of Fire, and a nice version of Solitary Man, among other well received selections. Though they were a seven-piece ensemble, they managed to contain their volume output, which is wise for an opening act. By the end of their set, they had won over the steadily growing crowd.

At 3 PM, The Symptoms and I took our turn. We played an 11-song set featuring five of my original songs and a few covers by artists like The Dillards, The Beatles, and Bob Dylan. Thanks to this fine group of musicians for the crash course undertaken in learning the songs and playing together over a few weeks. It was an honor to be on stage with such a talented bunch.

By now, we’d encountered sound and equipment problems. The stage monitors weren’t working properly, and the P.A. system overheated and shut down for awhile. But it didn’t stop us. The P.A. started working again, and at about 4:20 PM, a rocking unit known as Plan-B took over, and these guys meant business. With well chosen cover songs ranging from bands including The Kinks, The Band and Talking Heads, Plan-B had virtually everyone up and dancing and shaking and sweating. They presented a wide and varied set of songs that were just right for the occasion.

It should be noted that during Plan-B’s performance, there were lots of eyes on the two big screen TV’s at the other end of the bar, where the San Francisco Giants were rallying in the ninth inning for a come from behind playoff game victory over the Atlanta Braves. For at least a few minutes, the Giants were getting almost as many cheers as the band. But soon enough the music would once again prevail and regain all of our attention.

Finally, just before 5:30, The Relyks stepped up for the day’s final set. This band is like a well oiled machine. They play regularly at The Clayton Club and they’ve got their songs down pat. They represent the ultimate in what a Classic Rock band is about, performing a large selection of well-arranged songs from a wide array of artists from Chuck Berry to The Clash and more. They even managed to do it at a tastefully loud volume, entertaining the crowd to the very end. In spite of many of us feeling worn out from dancing, clapping, and the heat in general, The Relyks kept us engaged till after 6:30 PM, providing a fitting conclusion to a day of music.

A word about the crowd. An estimated 300 people attended the event throughout the afternoon, a number that greatly exceeded expectations. The free music and free food proved to be a winning combination that attracted a diverse audience from all over the Bay Area.

For all of the joy spread around that day, the single most memorable element for me was the camaraderie shared among the musicians. I was struck by how much we love to play music. Musicians so often donate their services under challenging conditions, learning songs and mixing and matching personnel between bands. Some of these musicians played in as many as three of the four bands, and did so willingly without complaint.

By all accounts, our event was successful. Even some of Clayton’s local politicians were present, earnestly campaigning for votes in the upcoming city council elections. As John Propersi of The Relyks aptly summarized, The Clayton Club was the place to be that day in Clayton.

The feeling among those involved is that there is more than enough interest to seek sponsorship for future year presentations of Music At The Mountain. It won’t be easy, but it seems plausible that the same spirit that drove so many to share their talents and services this year can help take MATM to the next level.

Local film and documentary makers take note: Music At The Mountain looks like it’s here to stay. Perhaps future presentations can be captured with video footage and made into a movie. It might even become valuable some day.

Meanwhile, we’ve all got the memory of a fun day. See you next year.

JH

September 17, 2010 Clayton, CA

Having a recording studio in one's home is anything but unusual nowadays. Seems like virtually every musician has some sort of digital recording setup that allows them to make good sounding recordings at home.

That said, it takes talented people to know and navigate their way through the complex world of recording. Proper microphones and their best placement for any given recording session, room acoustics, and a healthy dose of knowledge of recording equipment and electronics only begin to describe the skills required to be a good recording engineer.

Five years ago, I took the two-year "Recording Arts" program offered at nearby Los Medanos College here in Northern California. I wanted to better learn the ins and outs of recording music, and figured I'd meet some talented students in the process.

Jon Lesher, a young man about half my age, caught my attention early on in the program. Soft spoken but alert and intelligent, I always got the feeling that unlike some of us taking the classes, Jon actually grasped and could apply the information as presented by the teachers.

I just had a hunch about him. I figured that Jon could help me build and operate my home studio, and help me make records in the future. As we completed the program of study, I made sure that I got his contact information.

Soon thereafter, I began calling on Jon for any number of recording projects, and to help me secure the best recording equipment for my studio. Jon immediately proved himself to be both reliable as well as a good problem solver when recording related issues would crop up.

Jon is also a musician - a fine guitarist. He plays lead guitar for the progressive rock bank known as Add Moss. His good ears help his musicianship as well as his engineering and music production skills.

For nearly a year, Jon and I have been working on a Christmas CD that I have long hoped to record. After many hours of painstaking labor and collaboration, we're perhaps 75% of the way finished with the making of this record. Jon's skills have proven invaluable.

Tentatively titled "Piano Christmas," this new record will feature a couple original Christmas songs along with some well known Christmas standards. It will also include some obscure Christmas songs that I love.

Just like my previous five albums recorded over the past 10 years, this record will feature piano based instrumental music. It will also include my first recording with vocals in many years, a song I wrote titled "Let's Trim The Christmas Tree." Bass, drums, "sleigh bells," and children's voices grace this recording, and I can't wait to get it out there for public consumption.

We still have some finishing touches to add to the record: guitar and harmonica parts, a possible violin overdub, and maybe another sweetener or two, followed by mixing and mastering. But at least much of the work is done.

Jon proved worthy of the task of recording an acoustic grand piano and editing the music (or digital data) into legitimate songs. A grand piano is considered one of the most difficult instruments to record, due to its inherent complex nature and construction.

From powerful "sound boards" to an extremely wide range of frequencies, getting a good, true piano sound down on records has baffled many an engineer over the years. Jon has an inherent ability to work with sound, tweaking levels and frequencies here and there as needed to make the best recordings possible. Often a two-inch variation in the placement of microphones near the piano strings can greatly alter the sound of the recording.

With so many strings and notes sounding on a piano, often simultaneously, the editing of different "takes" into a good, listenable piece of music requires patience and creativity. Again, Jon has proven to be more than capable, getting a lovely piano sound out of my Yamaha grand piano that sits in our living room.

While we'll both be happy to have this longer than expected project behind us, I must say that I really enjoy working with Jon. He's got a good sense of humor, and his even keeled personality serves him well in overcoming equipment glitches and other recording issues that inevitably arise.

For me, working with a young man in his mid-20's helps provide new energy and perspective. Having grown up in the digital era of recording, Jon is on top of all the latest changes in recording technology and software.

I can't help but think that in another 10-20 years, Jon Lesher will be a well known name in the music and recording industry. It's fun to work with a young man who's not only highly talented, but who loves music and recording as much as I do.

Thanks, Jon. Let's finish our project and get it out there. Then we can start another...

Jim Hudak

Acting upon an idea he's nurtured for several years, Jim Hudak is spearheading a day of music at the foot of Mount Diablo in Clayton, CA. On Sunday, October 10th, 2010, The Clayton Club Saloon will host the musical event, which will likely feature at least four bands, and possibly more. The bands will all include some of the many talented musicians in the Clayton area.

It's been Jim Hudak's brainchild to organize a musical event of this type for more than five years. But he won't be doing it alone. Several fellow musicians have stepped up to help coordinate the festival, and their assistance is welcomed.

"There's always more to this kind of thing than meets the eye," says Hudak. "But already I've got to thank several people who are getting involved to make this thing actually happen."

Starting with Steve Barton, owner of the Clayton Club, who's offered to make the venue available for the event, Jim has also had help from several musicians, including Bob Insalaco, Maggie New, Chris Lucas, and Rex Reade, among others.

Getting the bands and lineups set is the first priority. So far, local legends The Relyks and The Jim Hudak Band have signed on, with other bands being considered for performance participation.

"Things like length of the sets, changing of equipment between bands and their sets, background music between sets, food, equipment, and all the practical and legal issues involved in putting something like this together can be daunting," Hudak emphasizes. "But it's great how people can come together when called upon. In the end, it's a testimony as to how much we all love music and playing it together."

In what he hopes will become an annual concert-event, Hudak describes this year's inaugural effort as basically a "big party." Local concert promoter Jim Ocean suggested this approach as a way to "stick our toe in the water, " Hudak says, to see how the event goes over and how well it's received.

"We're all offering our services for free this year," Hudak points out. "If things go well, we'll hit the ground running for next year. We'll hire Jim Ocean to help run and promote the event, and get sponsorship to help pay for all the permits, security, and rental of our own outdoor park or space. We also plan to pay the musicians in future years, something that I feel is very important. Too often musicians end up doing events like this for free, and it's simply not right. The average person has no idea how much is involved in practicing, schlepping around the equipment, and everything else that goes with putting on a good performance."

With scenic Mount Diablo as the backdrop, possible future sites for the Music At The Mountain Festival include Clayton Community Park, the downtown Grove Park, or "maybe someone's big back yard if anyone offers to make it available," according to Hudak.

For now, the plan is to make this first year, the Big Party experiment, successful and enjoyable for all. "It will be a free event, with food and music, and lots of camaraderie, so we look for a solid turnout," says Hudak. "There's nothing like free music and food for getting people together."

Indeed.

It sounds trite. We read and hear it so often, that health is the most important thing in life. But when you experience some serious health related issues first hand, suddenly the importance of good health hits home.

Without getting too deep into this, let's just say that the past few months have included numerous health related challenges for me. My situation looks much better than it did a month or two ago, and for that I'm grateful. A special thanks to family and friends who have provided such heart warming support. One really gets a new perspective on the importance of human relationships when dealing with personal health issues.

More detail on all this another time. For now, I'll just say that some new music related opportunities have presented themselves, and I'm excited about the possibilities. My Christmas song, "Let's Trim The Christmas Tree," is 99% completed and nearly ready for its unveiling to the general public. Other recording and composing projects are looking promising, and I'm excited about where my music is headed.

Overall, it just feels good to be getting stronger again. Recently I read an article that addressed the single most important thing for people who are "retired." It isn't money or security per se. You guessed it, the single most important thing to enjoying one's retirement years is....Good Health. Not to sound preachy here, but I hope that's something we all take seriously, as I certainly am doing more and more these days. Not that I was ever "unhealthy." Illnesses and health related misfortunes often occur that are beyond an individual's ability to control. But I've learned that you can't take good health for granted, especially as you get older.

More music related news and developments will be announced in the coming days and weeks. Thanks for checking in and visiting my website. The great fan support that I'm lucky to have makes the making and playing of music all the more worthwhile.

Best wishes to everyone. Carry on!

Jim Hudak
Clayton, CA

While he's been in the music business for 35 years, Jim Hudak agrees that many of the old rules no longer apply. Music business veterans everywhere are scrambling to figure it out.

"Part of it is the economy, overall," said Hudak recently. "Everyone's talking about reinventing themselves, and many are out of work. That applies to all industries, not just the music business."

In spite of the challenges, it's also a time for opportunity, with avenues available that didn't exist even 10 years ago.

Says Hudak,"It's great to be selling digital downloads of my music to people in Italy or Korea or anywhere else. Certainly that would have been unlikely as an independent artist on a tiny record label until the relatively recent past. In that sense it's great."

But since a worldwide audience is now available to so many, competition is fierce. It's as if everybody and his brother is suddenly a musician and a recording artist. All an artist can do is put his material out there and hope that he connects and gets his share of the business.

"We've all got studios in our home, now, which has really hurt the studio business and put some very talented engineers and producers out of work," Hudak continues. "It reminds me of when I lived in Western Pennsylvania. Most of the steel mills had recently closed and people in that industry were scrambling to redefine themselves. Of course many of them simply had to change careers. Or else hang out in the bar all day, crying in their beer."

Why continue as a musician?

"At this point, it's so deep in my blood that it's hard to imagine doing anything else. So much time, energy, and money has been invested in my music and art. I can't stop now."

"Besides, music is still the greatest thing on earth. There's nothing like being moved by a song or a piece of music that grips you emotionally. Sure, there's a lot more music to sort through now in order to find what you really like, but it's out there. In fact, if you know where to look, music that appeals to each and every individual is more abundant than ever before. It takes patience and perseverance to find it, but it's there."

For Jim Hudak, more recordings, compositions, and performances are just a way of life. "I've been lucky to be able to do what I love for so long," he explains. "With a little luck, I just might be able to continue doing it indefinitely."

Yes, it's the new music business. But maybe it isn't so different from the old music business after all.

Jim Hudak, who's rendered over 3,000 performances as a solo piano instrumentalist over the past 15 years, is taking singing lessons. A reach? A departure? Not necessarily.

"Actually, I've studied voice from several teachers in the past," Hudak confides. "But it's been awhile. With upcoming recordings planned that will include vocals, I wanted to get a fresh perspective and give myself a chance to sing as well as I possibly can."

Richard Jennings, whose Richard Jennings Voice Studio is located in Berkeley, CA, is providing the vocal instruction for Hudak's singing renaissance. Jennings has taught voice in major universities and worked with singers on several record labels and Tony Award winning theatres. He favors the Bel Canto vocal technique, which Hudak is familiar with.

"I studied Bel Canto with a great teacher in Pittsburgh, PA named Paula Signorino for over two years," Hudak points out. "What Richard presents in the way of how to approach singing rings true and familiar to what Paula taught. That helps to make the process more comfortable for me. Like in anything else, a good teacher makes all the difference."

Hudak credits Frank Dorritie, the department chair for the Recording Arts program at Los Medanos College, for pointing out the importance of good vocal technique. "When I was going through the Recording Arts program a few years ago, one of the classes I really enjoyed was a class called 'Record Producing' that Frank taught. I remember he said that one of the tough responsibilities of a record producer is to advise prospective clients that if necessary, voice lessons might be in order. In my case, since I haven't sung too much over the past 15 years, I could hear the rustiness in my vocals, and decided that singing lessons would be a good investment."

Saying he can already hear and feel a difference for the better in his singing, Hudak plans to continue with his voice lessons until his improved technique becomes automatic and natural. In the end, good singing is about breathing, feeling relaxed, and applying good technique in order to make the voice as warm and resonant as possible.

After years of fielding requests, it appears that a Jim Hudak "Christmas Album" may finally become a reality this year. Jim has begun preparations in earnest for a CD of Christmas songs he describes as "traditional with some twists."

"Lots of artists record Christmas records," he said recently. "I'd like to do my own, featuring some original songs, a few traditional carols, and some surprise choices of holiday music that really moves me." In other words, a collection of songs with wide appeal while still being unique.

The title of the Christmas CD will be "Let's Trim The Christmas Tree," named for the title track, a song Jim composed several years ago and has nearly finished recording. It will be the record's centerpiece song, which will also be released as a single.

"It's an upbeat song, with a similar vibe to "Jingle Bell Rock," except that it's a touch jazzier," he explains. "It swings a bit, with some nice percussive parts and bass to go with the piano. That song includes vocals, too, though the rest of the record will be piano based instrumental music as I've done over the past 10 years."

Jim Hudak hasn't released a song with vocals since his 1987 album titled "The Hudaks Connected." It featured original songs by Jim and his brother Don Hudak, backed by some of music's most respected studio session players.

"I still enjoy listening to that record," Jim says. "I've been wanting to record songs with singing again for some time. Hopefully "Let's Trim The Christmas Tree" will be the start of something of a movement in that direction for me."

Jim hopes to have the recording of the Christmas CD completed by mid-summer, with the formal release of the album due in November of this year. Stay tuned for more details and information.

Whether writing music, books, or stories for magazines or newspapers, the importance of finding your own voice and following your instincts cannot be overemphasized. Every famous musician, songwriter, columnist or novelist was once an unknown. Somehow, finally - often after lots of practice and rejection, they crafted their own style or sound that's just a little bit different than anyone else's. And after awhile, they became accepted to the degree that what once might have sounded or seemed strange is now "mainstream."

Copy bands can be great. Imitators have their own talent, to be sure. But it's the innovators, artists with something different to say or to play, that stand out in the long run.

So, if it sounds good to you, even if for now, it's only you that it sounds good to, stick with it. Hone it, craft it, make it your own. Chances are someone else will like it, too. Then someone else, and someone else again. That's the way audiences and followings are built. Don't be afraid to be yourself. It's better than pretending to be someone or something you're not.

This concludes today's word of wisdom to artists and musicians everywhere. Thanks for checking in.

Jim Hudak

In so many of life's situations, we find ourselves in less than ideal circumstances. For a musician it might be attempting to perform a song (or several songs) that they've never played publicly before. For an athlete, it could be getting unexpectedly called in to a game to take the place of an injured player. In business, perhaps it's having to make a sales presentation without being as familiar with your product as you'd prefer to be.

Yet, we work our way through those difficult situations. If we're good improvisers, we might even be successful most of the time - in spite of the difficulties and apprehension that we feel.

Several years ago, I heard an interview with Steve Young, former star quarterback of the San Francisco 49ers. He was talking about his playing career, (Young retired after the 2000 season) and how in spite of both his own and his team's great success, many of the plays he called or ran found him having to "wing it" for one reason or another.

Broken down plays and assignments, unexpected defensive alignments, and just the human error factor can make the most perfectly designed play on paper end up taking an unexpected turn. It's then when one's natural ability and instincts have to kick in, and Young was as good at making that happen as any athlete I can remember.

It was during that same interview that I remember Young mentioning that he and Hall of Fame receiver Jerry Rice used to joke about just having to "fake it till you make it." Meaning that you give it your best shot, every play and every game, despite your own shortcomings and the inevitable presence of circumstances beyond your control. Young went on to say that if you're truly prepared - rehearsed and as ready as possible for any possible thing that might happen to disrupt your plans, that you'll get through it. Indeed, sometimes just being able to fake it till you make it is quite enough.

Recently, I had the chance to meet a couple of my longtime musical heroes, George Winston and Tom Rush. (See my 1/15/10 News entry on a concert by Tom Rush). I thought both of their performances were outstanding. Yet, meeting them after each of their concerts, I was surprised to hear them both downplaying their evening's musical presentation.

Winston's remark was particularly revealing. When I told him how great his show was, he seemed genuinely surprised. "Oh, it was pretty ragged," he said. "It's always that way." Rush was similarly self-deprecating as he assessed his own performance, even though the crowd and I thought it was excellent.

I put their responses into roughly the same category as Steve Young's "fake it till you make it" philosophy. I mean, here are three veteran performers who rate at or near the top of their professions as a quarterback, pianist, and singer-guitarist. Yet, each one readily recognizes the inherent flaws that go with their every performance. It's simply an inevitable fact of life that we humans make mistakes. We all have shortcomings and things we wish we could do better.

But that "preparation factor" cannot be overestimated. If we're as well drilled and disciplined as possible, through repetition and performance in a wide range of environments and situations, chances are that even a less than perfect performance will still be "good." In fact to many, the performance will appear to be very good or even great.

So the rest of us can take solace in the fact that even those who are the best in their given profession often feel less than thrilled about their performance. It's up to all of us to mine the gifts and talents we've been given, and if we do our very best, that will usually be more than good enough.

Yes, "fake it till you make it" seems to make more sense the more I think about it. If it's good enough for Steve Young, it's good enough for me.

JH