Mozart's Digital Concerto - Free Classical MP3s Made Easy

I've done a lot of searching around the net for free classical mp3 downloads as you can see from my article on Classical Music Downloads for Free. But that article only touches on the vast numbers of great Classical music songs available online.

I decided to sell some of this knowledge. The result is a 28-page Special Report called Mozart's Digital Concerto : A Quick and Easy Guide to Free Classical Music Downloads. In it, I breakdown every website online that hosts a large mix of classical music downloads.

There are not many--19 to be exact. Some of them are total secrets too. Others are fairly well-known. But you will not find a more comprehensive guide to free classical mp3 downloads online.

This is an exciting development in the world of Classical music. Since its release, the website has swarmed with classical music lovers anxious to download the world's best classical music downloads. I hope you enjoy them as much as I have!

Filling Your Marketing Funnel

by Alexandria K. Brown, "The E-zine Queen"

A client of mine, whom I'll call "Mary," is a financial planner. She'd had a Web site for a few years that pretty much served as an online brochure for her. When Mary came to me, she was looking for other ways to generate income besides working directly with clients.

During our first conversation I introduced her to the MARKETING FUNNEL. If you picture a funnel, you know it's wide and open at the top, and tiny and narrow at the bottom. At the top of the funnel is where you want to get as MANY prospects in as possible. At the bottom of the funnel is your HIGHEST PRICED service or product. And in the middle are in-between levels of services/products and prices.

So as you go down the funnel, the products are priced higher and higher, and the idea is to keep people flowing down from the top to the bottom.

First, Get Them IN the Funnel

Offering something for FR*EE is the ideal way to get tons of people into your funnel. Most people collect prospects by giving away something free, such as a report, an e-zine, or a teleclass. When people sign up for these goodies, you get their names and e-mail addresses, allowing you to contact them again.

At the top of Mary's funnel was her e-zine. And at the bottom was her pricey one-on-one services. But there was nothing in the middle of her funnel.

I see this often with many solo professionals, such as coaches and consultants. There's either free or high-fee. This is the reason many of them have so much trouble converting prospects --- people usually aren't ready to make that big jump from $0 to several thousand dollars!

So I helped Mary brainstorm several information products ("info-products") she could quickly create and begin to sell.

Info-Products Are Your Solution

By packaging your knowledge into info-products, you give your prospects the chance to "sample" you at a lower price, filling the middle of your funnel. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

* Books
* E-Books
* Special Reports
* Manuals
* Workbooks
* Journals
* Audio (downloads, CDs, or cassettes)
* Video (downloads, DVDs, or VHS tapes)
* Home Study Courses or Tutorials (usually a mix of media)

Even better, selling these products on your Web site gives you passive income. That is, it's money coming in automatically. It didn't require your working X hours for Y dollars. Sales can come in 24/7, even while you're sleeping! (For help in getting started, see my program "How to Create, Sell, and Profit from E-books and Special Reports".)

And don't forget about teleclasses or teleseminars, delivered over the phone, or even Webinars, taught over the Internet. These require your direct involvement, but allow you to teach many people at once. These formats allow you to make much more money per hour, and they give your prospects access to you for a lower fee than hiring you one-on-one. (For help in getting started, see my program "Insider Secrets to Making Money With Teleseminars".)

Here's an example of my own product funnel:

TOP OF FUNNEL:
free e-zine
free teleclass

MIDDLE OF FUNNEL:
teleseminar ($47)
home study system ($197)
telebootcamp ($497)

BOTTOM OF FUNNEL:
one-on-one coaching/consulting ($350/hour)

Now, your funnel may look entirely different. For example, here's what Mary's funnel now looks like:

TOP OF FUNNEL:
free e-zine

MIDDLE OF FUNNEL:
workbook ($29)
teleseminar ($49)
2-CD audio program ($69)
4-week tele-course ($149)
2-day live workshop ($599)

BOTTOM OF FUNNEL:
one-on-one services ($250/hour)
personal mentoring ($6,000/year)

Take a few minutes right now and sketch out YOUR funnel. See where the holes are, and start thinking about what products you can add to make it easier for your prospects to sample your expertise and buy from you.

© 2004 Alexandria K. Brown

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Online entrepreneur Alexandria K. Brown, "The E-zine Queen," is author of the award-winning 'Boost Business With Your Own E-zine' system. To learn more about this step-by-step program, and to sign up for FR*EE how-to articles and FREE teleclasses, visit www.EzineQueen.com.

Music Promo Idea for Folk and Comedy Music

Listen, we just finished recording our next CD. It's due out the third week of July. Meanwhile, I'm gonna try a new promo idea I learned from internet marketers. I'd like to see if your band'd like to be a part of it.

I'd like your permission to give away at least one MP3 from your CDs as an exclusive gift to people who buy our next CD. It's a bonus that I think our fans will love and will be an extra incentive to buy the CD. In return, our fans will get to know your music better. I'll add a link to your band's website and to each CD from which the MP3 comes.

If you're interested, just let me know what to use for the

Band URL:
Song Name:
MP3 URL:
CD Name:
Buy CD URL:

You are welcome to give away more than one. Since I imagine most bands would opt for just one MP3 this could offer an extra advantage. I'll get everything setup in any case, and if you like I can even host the MP3 for you.

I'd also be happy to reciprocate this idea with you in the future if you like.

If not, that's cool too. I've seen a lot of internet marketers work wonders with this promotional idea. So I thought I'd try it out. Let me know what you think.

Slainte!

Altan Music

Founded in the 80's by Gweedore singer/fiddler Mairead Ni Mhaonaigh and flute-player Frankie Kennedy from Belfast, Altan has stood the test of time, proving that traditional Irish music still has a place in the present day. Named for a lake in Donegal, the band started with just two members, but has grown and gathered a following enough to carry them through ten studio albums and 20 years of playing together.

Rooted in the Irish sessions, Altan's music spans the range from jigs and reels to the most moving of Irish ballads. As with many bands, some of the musicians have changed throughout the years, most notably with the unfortunate loss of Frankie Kennedy to cancer in the early 1990s. Current band members include: Mairead Ni Mhanoaigh, Dermot Byrne, Ciaran Tourish, Ciaran Curran, Mark Kelly and Daithi Sproule. Some of the albums recorded over the years include: The Red Crow, Harvest Storm, Blackwater and their latest effort, Local Ground.

In 1996 Altan signed with Virgin Records. It was a historic move, as it was a large label for a smaller, traditional Irish band. Other notable achievements are both gold and platinum albums in Ireland and world tours, which have been well-received by their many fans.

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Catherine L. Tully is a freelance writer and photographer specializing in the arts. She has written for Dance Teacher Magazine, Classical Singer and Dance Spirit among others, and reviews music for Celtic MP3s Music Magazine. You can reach her at www.freelance-zone.com.

The Dropkick Murphys Music

The Dropkick Murphys put their musical influences in a blender since they formed in the mid nineties. A rowdy bunch right from the start, the Murphys combine Irish folk, punk and hardcore. With an impressive collection of EPs, albums and compilations, the Murphys have seen many personnel changes, but original bass player Ken Casey holds the group together after nine years of ruckus making. The first version of the band included singer Mike McColgan, guitarist Rick Barton and, after a series of fill-ins, Rick Kelly on drums.

McColgan sang on the first full-length album Do Or Die, produced by Rancid's Lars Fredriksen. The album sold more than 150,000 copies, and according to the group, that success came from word-of-mouth, not an ad campaign. After that initial success, Mike McColgan was replaced by Al Barr for the 1999 release The Gang's All Here.

The Murphys have never been satisfied with a traditional lineup,
adding mandolin player James Lynch and Spicy McHaggis on bagpipes in 2000. Rick Barton departed after getting married, replaced by guitarist Mark Orrell.

The most recent DKM release, 2005's The Warrior Code, showcases punk ethics and Celtic influence on songs like The Auld Triangle, The Last Letter Home and the title track. Those who don't know the Murphys should treat themselves to their brand bagpipe-punk, made relevant by a sincere dedication to the working man which sets them apart from many of their punk peers.

Find out more about The Dropkick Murphys or their free music downloads.

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Celtic MP3 Music Magazine writer Joe Wallace reviews music for many publications and writes both nonfiction as well as short stories. His nonfiction work includes articles for Korean Quarterly, Indie-Music.com, the Alternative Culture Guide, and Factsheet Five. Contact him through his website at www.freelance-zone.com.

CAPERCAILLIE Music Review

by Phil Hall

Artist: Capercaillie
Album: "Choice Language"
Year produced: 2003

Here's something you don't hear that frequently: Celtic-style muzak. Capercaillie titled this release "Choice Language," but one can't help and wonder if any other choices are available. None of the 12 selections rise to anything resembling a memorable song. In fact, the only way the tracks can be differentiated is that some are in English and some are in Gaelic.

Vocalist Karen Matheson has a clear and lilting phrasing, but there's no passion or feeling in anything she puts forth. At times, she is so bland that it feels she's singing phonetically. A protest tune "Who Will Raise Their Voice?" comes out with such a tedious and unconvincing interpretation that it feels as if she is some degree of musical disobedience for being coerced to perform against her will. "I Will Set My Ship in Order" is meant to be a tribute to Ossian's Tony Cuffe and George Jackson, but her singing is so tepid that it feels more like an insult than a tribute.

Throughout "Choice Language," Capercaillie pollutes the tracks with a watered down concept of Celtic music that frequently sounds like bad New Age or bland lite jazz. The occasional groan of pipes and whistles remind the listener of the Celtic roots, but even then long stretches of musical monotony flows before those reassuring sounds turn up. It's not impossible for the mind to wander while the songs play - these tunes barely register or catch the fancy. If someone were to pipe Celtic music into elevators, this would be on the playlist.


   Buy the Album: "Choice Language"

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Celtic MP3s Music Magazine writer, Phil Hall is contributing editor for Film Threat, book editor for the New York Resident, author of "The Encyclopedia of Underground Movies" (MWP Books) and a proud child of Wales.

THE POGUES Music Review

by Michelle Osborne

Artist: The Pogues
Album: If I Should Fall From Grace With God
Year produced: 1988

I knew nothing of the world of Celtic rock until I was sent a preview copy of Marc Gunn's newly-released compilation, "The Secret World of Celtic Rock." Instantly, I was intrigued and was told to go listen to The Pogues who are highly influential in the Celtic rock world.

The Pogues, who's original name Pogue Mahone means "kiss my arse" in Gaelic, were founded by Shane MacGowan in 1981. Since then, they have shortened their name to the now well-known "The Pogues" (after a DJ discovered what pogue mahone meant) and put out 13 albums and several videos of their performances.

If I Should Fall From Grace With God, released in 1988, was their 3rd album and contains over 50 minutes of some truly great music. One of the highlights of this album is the Christmas anthem, "Fairlytale of New York." After a beginning with a solo voice and piano, it launches into a song that starts idealistic and turns fairly harsh as the couple involved speak of what has happened to their dreams. One can easily hear the youthful idealism that turns to cold pessimism as the song spins around them. Another particular favourite is the "Turkish Song of the Damned." Be ready to crank the volume up on this one! Beginning with a driving beat and a Mediterranean-influenced melody, it continually floats between this sound and a more Celtic-inspired dance tune. Screams and howls punctuate the singing, while the latter portion is a driving revved-up jig. A couple other highlights include the instrumental "Metropolis," which was inspired by Leonard Bernstein's music (no doubt this would be West Side Story), and "Streets of Sorrow/Birmingham Six," a song which shows their Republican leanings and was actually banned by the BBC.

If you're looking for an album of solid Celtic rock, which is both unique and fun to listen to, you cannot possibly go wrong with this album by The Pogues.


   Buy the album: If I Should Fall From Grace With God

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Celtic MP3s Music Magazine writer, Michelle Osborne, is a native to the central New York region. She plays both high and low whistles regularly with the Syracuse Irish session. Besides being heavily involved in Irish traditional music, she is also a classical clarinetist and composer.

Batman Begins Movie

Awesome movie! Need anything more be said? Not really, but I'll try.

Course, I heard nothing but great things about Batman Begins. Every Sci Fi and non-Sci Fi geek alike raved about this movie before I even had a chance to catch a glimpse. Most said that Christian Bale, who played Batman/Bruce Wayne, WAS those two characters. I wholeheartedly agree.

I don't remember the first Batman movies that much. After the second movie, it started to get cheesy. I never even say Batman & Robin. If you're gonna have cheese, just bring me Adam West, cuz I LOVED the "Pow, Bam, Pop, Crunch" era. But this movie took Batman back to his dark roots. The vigilante, but not Just a vigalente. A vigalante with compassion. From start to finish, it was a joy to walk and was completed by a powerful Batman Begins soundtrack.

I hope they do many more movies just like this gothic masterpiece.

Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy

So long and thanks for all the fish!

That's as far as we got today when I finally made it out to see Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy today. It was beautiful. The irony was perfect.

"The dolphins last words were so long and thanks for all the fish."
[cue music]
[music plays]
[music ends]

"Wow! What a neat effect. I'd never have thought to see the film burn up before our eyes."

And yet... it did.

We watched patiently as the film was incinerated. Ten mintues later, after several people in the audience shouted, "Don't Panic!" and of course, "so long and thanks for all the fish", the attendant came and gave us new passes to see movies there.

Alas, I still need to see the movie, and that was the last theatre in town showing it. :(

Ah well, maybe they'll get a new copy in a few days.

Guess I'll try to remember to Always Look on the Bright Side of Life.

Austin Music Bootcamp

Austin Music Foundation is offering their next boot camp

Topic: "The College Circuit: Cashing in on Campus,"

Date: Monday, June 27th
Location: Tambaleo (302 Bowie, prev. Electric Lounge)
Time: 6:30 - 7:30pm Seminar Discussion
7:30 - 8:30pm Round Table Workshop

Panelists:
Ari Nisman, President, Degy Entertainment
Jamie Chvotkin, Director of Operations, CDBaby
Casey McPherson, Endochine, Songwriter
Charlie Hueber, NACA Central Regional Development Coordinator
George Dishner, Veteran Music Director, KVRX

Corporate Lessons for Record Companies

Corporate Lesson 1

A man is getting into the shower just as his wife is finishing up her shower when the doorbell rings. The wife quickly wraps herself in a towel and runs downstairs. When she opens the door, there stands Bob, the next door neighbor. Before she says a word, Bob says, "I'll give you $800 to drop that towel." After thinking for a moment, the woman drops her towel and stands naked in front of Bob. After a few seconds, Bob hands her $800 dollars and leaves.

The woman wraps back up in the towel and goes back upstairs. When she gets to the bathroom, her husband asks, "Who was that?" "It was Bob the next door neighbor," she replies. "Great!" the husband says, "Did he say anything about the $800 he owes me?"

Moral of the story: If you share critical information pertaining to credit and risk with your shareholders in time, you may be in a position to prevent avoidable exposure.

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Corporate Lesson 2

A priest offered a lift to a Nun. She got in and crossed her legs, forcing her gown to reveal a leg. The priest nearly had an accident. After controlling the car, he stealthily slid his hand up her leg. The nun said, "Father, remember Psalm 129?" The priest removed his hand. But, changing gears, he let his hand slide up her leg again. The nun once again said, "Father, remember Psalm 129?" The priest apologized; "Sorry sister but the flesh is weak."

Arriving at the convent, the nun went on her way. On his arrival at the church, the priest rushed to look up Psalm 129. It said, "Go forth and seek, further up, you will find glory."

Moral of the story: If you are not well informed in your job, you might miss a great opportunity.

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Corporate Lesson 3

A sales rep, an administration clerk, and the manager are walking to lunch when they find an antique oil lamp. They rub it and a Genie comes out. The Genie says, "I'll give each of you just one wish." "Me first! Me first!" says the admin. clerk. "I want to be in the Bahamas, driving a speed boat, without a care in the world." Poof! She's gone.

"Me next! Me next!" says the sales rep. "I want to be in Hawaii, relaxing on the beach with my personal masseuse, an endless supply of Pina Coladas and the love of my life." Poof! He's gone.

"OK, you're up," the Genie says to the manager. The manager says, "I want those two back in the office after lunch."

Moral of the story: Always let your boss have the first say.

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Corporate Lesson 4

A crow was sitting on a tree, doing nothing all day. A rabbit asked him, "Can I also sit like you and do nothing all day long?" The crow answered: "Sure, why not." So, the rabbit sat on the ground below the crow, and rested. A fox jumped on the rabbit and ate it.

Moral of the story: To be sitting and doing nothing, you must be sitting very high up.

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Corporate Lesson 5

A turkey was chatting with a bull. "I would love to be able to get to the top of that tree," sighed the turkey, but I haven't got the energy."

"Well, why don't you nibble on my droppings?" replied the bull. "They're packed with nutrients."

The turkey pecked at a lump of dung and found that it gave him enough strength to reach the lowest branch of the tree. The next day, after eating some more dung, he reached the second branch. Finally after a fourth night, there he was proudly perched at the top of the tree. Soon he was spotted by a farmer, who shot the turkey out of the tree.

Moral of the story: Bulls**t might get you to the top, but it won't keep you there.

RISE Music U.K.

by Joe Wallace

Artist: Rise
Album: Posing As Human
Year produced: 2004

Many bands pass themselves off as eclectic; few truly pull it off well. Rise is one of those rare groups that show talent in a diverse array of musical idioms. The Scottish foursome's second album, "Posing As Human," begins with a strong cocktail of Dylan and The Sundays-influenced sounds. Singer Debbie Dawson's voice has a vulnerable quality perfect on songs like "Don't Stop the World" and "I Will Love You Always". The multi-talented Gerry Geoghegan's twelve-string guitar playing is both free-wheeling and precise; "The Gallows" highlights his skill with perfect timing with complex start-and-stop playing.

Slide guitar fans will appreciate the bluesy "Welcome To The Real World", and Debbie Dawson's voice works particularly well, especially when the song changes from the minimal blues riff to a fuller rock sound. Geoghegan takes a turn on the mic on some tracks. "I Will See My Love Again" and "Green Grow the Rashes-o" find him in good voice, especially on the harmonies. Geoghegan sounds very much like a peer of Fleetwood Mac guitarist Lindsey Buckingham; he is every bit as diverse and skilled with his song arrangements as the ‘Mac guitarist.

There is a traditional influence on this CD, but ‘eclectic' is the word of the day. Celtic purists may be a bit disappointed, but those who like a combination of blues, folk and rock should spend some time with this new release. On the technical side it's a well-produced effort with the singing and guitars expertly mixed-every note is clear and strong. There's some beautifully restrained keyboard work going on
in the background, giving some songs an ethereal quality while others get a slight gospel flavor.

Second albums are often difficult for any band, but Rise doesn't show any signs of what music biz people call the "sophomore slump". The group does well in capturing its essence on CD, but after an extended listen to "Posing" you'll find yourself wanting a live performance to catch Rise at its full power. A live CD would be most welcome; in the meantime, "Posing As Human" is one to put in the changer on ‘repeat'.


   Buy the Album: Posing As Human

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Celtic MP3 Music Magazine writer Joe Wallace reviews music for many publications and writes both nonfiction as well as short stories. His nonfiction work includes articles for Korean Quarterly, Indie-Music.com, the Alternative Culture Guide, and Factsheet Five. Contact him through his website at www.freelance-zone.com.

Sean McCabe and Cady Finlayson music

by Catherine L. Tully

Artist: Sean McCabe and Cady Finlayson
Album: Take Two
Year produced: 2000

With the pairing of Cady Finlayson on the fiddle and Sean McCabe's smooth voice--how can you go wrong? This 16-track CD is packed with expert playing, traditional sounding tracks and a little experimentation here and there to boot. In other words, there is a little something for everyone.

If you are a traditionalist, waste no time--go for track four--"Rising of the Moon." It gives you that good, familiar feeling, like relatives are in the living room singing old songs. For those who get their toes tapping with Irish Step Dance music, there is a jig, a reel and a hornpipe in store as well.

If you are in need of a pick-me-up, try track nine--"Nobody Wants to Know You When You're Broke." It will pretty much guarantee a smile on a rough day. Most of the songs have the upbeat style of Irish music--even when they speak of sadness. The first track, "Northerners" which talks about the difficulties in Ireland and leaving the country is still a terrific listen and doesn't leave you feeling glum.

Cady Finlayson's skill is obvious, and the CD does highlight it. The fiddle playing in track 12 struck that lovely yearning that only truly skilled players can make you feel. It will leave you with a lump in your throat. At times she is in a supporting role to McCabe's voice, but many of the tracks let her shine as well.

Track 15, "Take These Blues Away" is the prayer of a widow, and does a nice job of marrying the two artists together in sound. It is also McCabe's strongest "storytelling" style-song. The entire CD does a good job of mixing it up so that you are never sure what to expect next, although you are assured an interesting ride, regardless. All in all this mixture of contemporary Celtic folk and traditional-style music works.



   Buy the Album: Take Two

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Catherine L. Tully is a freelance writer and photographer specializing in the arts. She has written for Dance Teacher Magazine, Classical Singer and Dance Spirit among others, and reviews music for Celtic MP3s Music Magazine. You can reach her at ctully@freelance-zone.com.

Comedy Podcast - Manic Mondays

Funny rap musician, Sudden Death, started publishing a weekly Comedy Podcast. It's called Manic Mondays.

Manic Mondays
How do you make your Monday mornings a little more bearable? With comedy of course. That's where our new podcast comes in. Manic Mondays is a new weekly podcast featuring funny music and other features designed to take the sting off of your monday mornings.

In addition to playing funny song the show will feature regular segments such as News Of The Stupid and Horrible Movie Reviews, both of which are featured in our first episode. Episode 1 also features a brand new Sudden Death song never heard anywhere before!

The podcast is fun and funny with news of the weird and lots of great comedy including music by The Dubliners' Tabby Cats in his latest podcast.

Go to the website if you'd like to subscribe to Manic Mondays and make your Mondays a little more fun.

Wanted: Irish Music CD Reviews

I am currently looking for Irish Music CD Reviews for for that matter any sort of Celtic music reviews. I publish the Celtic MP3s Music Magazine. The magazine goes out to thousands of Celtic music fans. I created the website as a way to promote Celtic music. Part of that plan involves adding Irish music reviews like those created by Michelle Osborne and my other writers.

I can't promise a whole lot of work, but if you're interested in getting some free music and writing reviews about those artists and bands, then this is a great way to do it.

Bands reviewed in the past include such artists as Van Morrison and The Chieftains, Tommy Makem & Liam Clancy, The Dubliners, Patrick Cassidy, The Pogues, Capercaillie, Moya Brennan, Altan, and many many more!

If you'd be interested, visit the website for details.

A Guide to "Musician Lingo"

from the email Inbox:

For those not hip to the lingo...........here's what your musician friends really mean:

Tone- how much feedback you can make

"our sound"- how much you sound like another band

"our look"- how much make-up you wear

"influenced by"- ripped off

Melodic- Singer actually sings........correct key not required

key- what notes you think the song has in it

bar- the stuff before the chorus/the place where they keep the strippers

chorus- the stuff people actually remember

note- where your fingers are on the guitar

chord- combination of notes that you can play really really loud. There may be chords in a key or a bar. or in a bar key. something like that.

"friend in the music industry"- your cousin steve that works at blockbuster

"playing a showcase"- opening for another band that is already signed

"Signed"- to your cousin steve's record label

singer- guy who doesn't play guitar

lead singer- guy who thinks he plays guitar

lead guitarist- guy who thinks he can sing

bassist- guy who used to play guitar

drummer- guy who knows where to get drugs

manager- your cousin steve that works at blockbuster

scene- a town full of musicians who used to live in other scenes

demo- 3 song recording

album- demo plus an accoustic track and a "hidden track" of your guitarist playing the solo from stairway to heaven in the wrong key

record contract- ???????

girlfriend- the chick that pays the bills

groupie- the chick you bum off of while your ol lady is at work

hardcore- loud

punk- 3 chords

folk- 3 chords

singer/songwiter- "can somebody get me a mocha latte?"

soul- sounds black

rock- everything else

touring- playing your cousin steve's wedding

dedicated- no job

"opening for"- because people like them more

"about the music"- unless people don't like that music........then its about whatever music they do like

"other job"- pawn shop

"You guys played a great set"- we're much better than you

" This song is for all the ladies"- both of you

"we're gonna take it down a little bit"- because our drummer passed out

"We have merch for sale"- We need money

"For band expenses"- to bail our drummer out

"we're playing an accoustic set"- because our drummer is in rehab

"i don't drink before the set"- because i don't have any money

"we're a tight unit"- practiced more than twice

"This is my side project"- I'm much more talented than my regular band

"everybody come up to the front of the stage, don't be shy"- Please! Love me! Please!


Hope that clears it up. Tip your bartenders and waitresses! Thanks for
coming out!( this crowd sucked, I need a drink!)

New Ren Faire Music Resource

Awesome! Someone other than me is compiling a list of Renaissance festival music groups. That's fantastic. I made sure to submit the Brobdingnagian Bards and Marc Gunn and also another great Ren Celtic band Celtic Stone. One of these days I'll get around to contacting David Clauss to see about them re-releasing their albums.

Guess it also sorta makes my Renaissance Festival Music dot com webpage redundant. That's okay, I'm gonna update it one of these days anyway.

Some of you know me, others have met me, many of you have no clue who I am. I'm not trying to sell you anything, or carry your music in an online store. I, like yourself, am a musician. My name is Bob and I perform with the Ren Group, "Marooned".

I have created a website, Modern Bard, which can be found at Modern Bard - Ren faire music.

The goal of the website is to create a complete listing of every Ren and SCA related musician, the formats that their albums were released in, a link to the artist's website and, when possible, a link to the website selling the music. There is no cost to be listed on Modern Bard. The only thing I ask is that you keep me up to date on new releases so I can add them to the database...and even that isn't mandatory. If you have old albums (especially old cassette releases) that aren't in the listings? I'd appreciate you telling me about them.

I will eventually be adding a "News" page so that visitors can keep up to date on all of the latest album release information and all of the latest news on their favorite groups.

The whole idea is to have one site where people can come to looking for Ren music. I'll be adding album reviews and I denote which albums are currently in our music archives.

So, to recap:

Modern Bard is a website that plugs your albums, free of charge. You don't have to do a thing but make music.

Thanks for your time,
Bob Brinkman
Marooned

Using the Media Effectively To Promote Your Trade Show Exhibit

The media has the power to influence your tradeshow efforts whether it be in television, radio or print. Your job is to target your endeavors to create a positive company image and brand awareness of your products/services. How do you do that? Outlined below are 27 important points to help maximize your tradeshow effort.

By Susan Friedmann

Before the show

1. Define and select your target audience so that you can tailor your message directly to the needs, concerns and interests of your prospects.

2. Ask show management for a comprehensive media list complete with contact name, address, phone number and email address of all trade, business and local press, radio and TV stations. Also ask them about their media plan for the show.

3. Find out which publications are planning a show edition and their deadline for press releases. Realize that many of the trade journals work several months in advance.

4. Build a working relationship with the press. Get to know the editors and writers. Volunteer to be a resource for them. Ask about particular stories they are working on and consider information you may have to help them.

5. Realize that editors are in interested in timely newsworthy information; industry trends, statistics, new technology or product information; interesting material, such as, do-it-yourself tips, techniques, or strategies; useful advice; human interest stories, including celebrities you have coming to the show.

6. Investigate other media possibilities not covering the show who might still be interested in information. For example, chamber of commerce magazines/newsletters; local and regional business magazines; industry-specific newsletters; cable television or local talk radio programs.

7. Understand the do’s and don’ts of press kits. A press kit should include interesting and timely information; a one-page company bio sheet - corporate structure, executive staff chart, sales figures; complete product information - specs, distribution methods, pricing; good product photos; key contacts. Don't include outdated, false or exaggerated information; photos of your CEO or top executives.

8. Minimize your press kit information so that it is lightweight and easy to fit into a bag or briefcase. If your company is relatively unknown, be creative with your press kit folder, for example bright neon colors or graphics attract attention. Save on fancy, expensive folders as they do not impress the media. Exciting newsworthy information is what they want.

9. Reserve press conferences for major announcements, new product introductions, but only if they are truly new or improved, or general industry trends - what’s hot and what’s not. The media get very upset attending a press conference which is poorly organized and where nothing newsworthy is shared.

10. Post your press kit online to make your company news available to the media, industry experts and consumers before, during and after the event with Online Press Kits from PR Newswire. Online Press Kits increase traffic to your trade show booth and extend your reach far beyond the exhibition floor when you let all important audiences access your press kit information. Your corporate information is always at hand and lives on long after the event.

11. Mail, broadcast fax or e-mail press releases about your product/service focusing on what’s new. For example, highlighting a new application or new market. Wherever possible include statistics. Always have a contact name and number along with your booth location.

12. Arrange interviews with editors several weeks prior to the show. The media will usually decide at the last minute whether or not to attend. Continue to send them updated information and photos so they remember your company name. Look for specific angles to interest the different media.

13. Have a plan in case a crisis occurs immediately prior to the show, for example, your CEO resigns, or there is a takeover bid for your company. Be prepared with answers to the media’s and visitors’ awkward questions.

14. Use your website to display useful advice as well as promoting your show participation. Make an offer on your website for visitors to collect important information, such as an executive report, when they visit your booth.


During the show

15. Keep the press office well-stocked with your press kits. Also keep some press kits in your booth in case the media stop by.

16. Have a media spokesperson in your booth at all times, even over the lunch hour. Be prepared to explain your product and its importance in easy-to-understand, nontechnical terms.

17. Keep show management informed of newsworthy information for the show daily, and also in case reporters call in looking for story ideas.

18. Heighten visibility and create positive publicity through sponsorship opportunities.

Various media covering the event may automatically include sponsors names and/or photos, which can often generate coverage that might otherwise not be available.

19. Ask show management about opportunities to conduct presentations, seminars, or workshops. As a speaker, you are perceived as an industry expert. Some conferences request proposals to be submitted many months prior to the event.

20. Have a handout for your presentation with company contact information clearly marked on all pages. Have a page outlining what your company does. During your session offer something for free - a copy of the presentation, a special industry report, checklist, or tip sheet, and have participants come to the booth to collect it.

21. Use newsletters, special reports, audio cassettes, books/booklets, or computer discs/CDS as effective giveaways. These have a high perceived value and are more likely to be kept. Make sure they contain valuable industry-related information.


After the show

22. Send post-show press releases reporting trends, statistics or information on significant newsworthy information/orders that resulted from the show.

23. Collate all publicized articles and media coverage before, during and after the show, and send them to top management and your sales force. Include the best articles in mailings to customers and prospects.

24. Create a state of the industry report based on your observations at the show and send it out or offer it free to prospects/customers responding to a post-show mailing.

25. Send your customers and key prospects an audiocassette tape of your presentation or interesting interviews that took place during the show.

26. Include valuable show information in your company newsletter.

27. Encourage readers to contact you by including an offer and how to get it. For example, you could have readers contact you for a copy of your newsletter, free booklet or free information/report.


Finally, remember that your target audience are information seekers, always on the lookout for advice, ideas and information to help them. Your information must appeal to your target audience’s self-interest while at the time promoting your own.

---

Written by Susan A. Friedmann,CSP, The Tradeshow Coach, Lake Placid, NY, author: "Meeting & Event Planning for Dummies," working with companies to improve their meeting and event success through coaching, consulting and training. Go to http://www.thetradeshowcoach.com to sign up for a free copy of ExhibitSmart Tips of the Week.

Star Wars MP3

Star Wars Episode III: Revenge of the Sith is doing smashingly well in the box offices as EVERYONE knows. And I gotta admit I was pretty happy with the movie overall. Yes, I am knitpicking it like all the diehard Star Wars fans. But for the most-part I'm happy.

Heck, I've seen it in the theatre twice which is more than I can say for the Star Wars Episode I (once), or the Episode II (no theatre viewings). So that says a lot.

One of the things that really has me excited about finishing this album is the Brobdingnagian Bards new CD Brobdingnagian Fairy Tales.

It features one of our newest and most-popular songs--Jedi Drinking Song.

The song was written by John Ryan of the Dust Rhinos. We learned it and started playing the song three years ago. It's based on the first three movies and everyone who's heard it LOVES the song. A big huzzah to John Ryan!

Keep an eye open to the Brobdingnagian Bards for a free MP3 of the song.

Here's the lyrics for the Jedi Drinking Song:

words and music John Ryan of the Dust Rhinos

I had one pint of beer, and one shot of scotch,
I had one bottle of wine, and bourbon on the rocks
I had one lassie on me right, another on the left,
I looked that puppet in the eye and said give me the test

A long time ago, in a pub far away,
I sat on a barstool, just drinking away,
I couldn't hold it down, I guess I had too much
I felt a tremor in the force and then I lost my lunch
I woke up in a desert land, feeling hot and sick,
I saw a bearded man, he looked like some kind of hick,
He slowly waved his hand, and my pain was gone
He said let's go see Yoda, and I'll teach you this song.

So we got on a starship, and flew off into space
He said his name was Obi-Wan and there is no time to waste,
I have to get you trained before it is too late,
He said drink this bottle of whisky, and don't give in to hate.
My training went on, and I'd drank most of the bar
We stopped for supplies on the nearest Death Star
I learned to control my fear, and hold my alcohol
Soon I was able to stand even when Obi-Wan would fall.

[Star Wars theme song]

I sat down beside him and looked him in the eye
He broke the silence, said you judge me by my size
Obi-Wan said careful, for Yoda is the best
I said ok shorty, bring on the test
Well I could tell you how it ended, I could tell you some lies Let's just say, on that night the force was on his side
I got all riled up, and they threw me in jail
I said I don't believe it, Yoda said that's why I failed

KEY F

verse/chorus:
G G D D
G G C-D7-G
G G D D
G G C-D7-G

Star Wars theme:
G G C G
G G C G
C-G-C D D7

Background: Yes, I am a Star Wars fan, and when I heard this song, I had to learn it! So here it is. The recorded version is by the Dust Rhinos who authored the song. But give us some time and we'll post our own unique version with Darth Vader and all!


Seems some people are looking for Star Wars sheet music. You can find it there.

SPAMALOT Music Wins Best Musical at the Tony's

I first learned about Monty Python in college. One of my friends learned I had not heard of Monty Python's Holy Grail. They were shocked and dragged me to the Texas Union theatre at the University of Texas to watch the movie.

I was a big Dungeons & Dragons fan so I was captivated. They took my style of comedy and combined it with my style of fantasy. Aw yeah!

So imagine my delight when I heard that Spamalot was created and based largely on Monty Python's Holy Grail. Live just gets better and better. Course, it thrilled me even more when I realized that the musical features one of my band's favorite songs, "Always Look on the Bright Side of Life".

Why? Because we recorded that song in 2001 for our fourth CD, A Faire To Remember. And even better. Thus, I can say, we offer a free Spamalot music download because we giveaway an MP3 of our version of "Bright Side of Life". I hope you enjoy it!

New Leader in Celtic / Irish Music?

Free MP3 downloads continue to spark online sales for independent Celtic bands. For five years, the Celtic MP3s Music Magazine has led this online music revolution by featuring the hottest new Irish/Celtic music groups online that offer free music downloads.

Find out more in this Celtic music press release.

The Not-So Secret Guide to IRISH SONGS

Okay, I just created a new webpage/directory, The Secret Guide to Irish Songs. It's decent list considering I put it together in an hour.

Though what I really need to do is sit down and update my Irish Song Lyrics list. That site needs some major work. Not saying there aren't over a hundred lyrics there, but there could be a LOT more. I mean, I have lyrics to thousands of songs. All I need to do is get off my ass and create webpages for them.

The real trick is that it's not easy to do while I'm at work. But on the bright side, another month and I can do it all from home.

The other thing I'm working on is my Pub Songs Podcast. That's where I want to add free downloadable Irish Pub song or just pub song MP3s along with lyrics. I figure it'll be a great resource when I have some time to work on it.

Until I do have such time, I'll stick with The Secret Guide to Irish Songs. (Ain't that a great name?)

Submit to a Blog Directory

I needed a decent list of blog directories, so I decided to compile this one. These are all the top directories to which you can submit your blog, in no particular order. I only added the ones that are easy to submit to.

1. Blog Catalog
Blog Catalog is a listing of Blogs from all around the World. The Blogs listed in Blog Catalog range from Political Blogs to Sport Blogs.

2. Blogwise
A directory of blogs, grouped by keyword and country. Intends to be a guide to
blogs around the world.

3. Bloghub
An online directory and community where members from around the world gather here and exchange ideas.

4. Yahoo Directory
  · Free non-commercial site submission
  · How to Suggest Your Site on Yahoo

5. DMOZ Open Directory
  · How to Add A Site

6. Blog Universe
Blog directory and blog tool resource.

7. Blogarama
The blog directory and blog resources.

8. Contents Matter
Weblog directory of sorts. Must create an account.

9. Blog Search Engine
The official blog search & directory.

Deep Throat Secret Revealed?

Perhaps you heard about the ex-FBI agent who was referred to as Deep Throat. He was the person who exposed the Watergate scandal that nearly got RICHARD NIXON impeached.

His name is W. MARK FELT. He's 91 and officially revealed himself as Deep Throat.

Sounds like he's quite proud of this fact. Though I can't imagine why?

How would you like to go through life and say I'm DICK'S DEEP THROAT?

That's just wrong!

Spamalot MP3

Four years ago, we recorded Monty Python's Bright Side of Life" for Renaissance Festival CD, A Faire To Remember.

The song is featured in Monty Python's Spamalot. And we are very happy to share our recording of the song as a free Spamalot MP3.

Here are the lyrics for that song:

Always Look on the Bright Side of Life (from Monty Python)

words and music by Eric Idle

Some things in life are bad
They can really make you mad
Other things just make you swear and curse.
When you're chewing on life's gristle
Don't grumble, give a whistle
And this'll help things turn out for the best...

And...always look on the bright side of life...
Always look on the light side of life...

If life seems jolly rotten
There's something you've forgotten
And that's to laugh and smile and dance and sing.
When you're feeling in the dumps
Don't be silly chumps
Just purse your lips and whistle - that's the thing.

And...always look on the bright side of life...
Always look on the light side of life...

For life is quite absurd
And death's the final word
You must always face the curtain with a bow.
Forget about your sin - give the audience a grin
Enjoy it - it's your last chance anyhow.

So always look on the bright side of death
Just before you draw your terminal breath

Life's a piece of shit
When you look at it
Life's a laugh and death's a joke, it's true.
You'll see it's all a show
Keep 'em laughing as you go
Just remember that the last laugh is on you.

And always look on the bright side of life...
Always look on the right side of life...
(Come on guys, cheer up!)
Always look on the bright side of life...
Always look on the bright side of life...
(Worse things happen at sea, you know.)
Always look on the bright side of life...
(I mean - what have you got to lose?)
(You know, you come from nothing - you're going back to nothing.
What have you lost? Nothing!)
Always look on the right side of life...

KEY Am

verse:
Am G
Am G
Am G E7
A7 D7

chorus:
G E7 Am D7
G E7 A7 D7

Background: This song is from Life of Brian and later from The Meaning of Life both by Monty Python. From what I heard, they were filming the last scene of Life of Brian and were all bored and hot sitting up on their crucifixes. So Eric Idle started singing a little ditty. Everyone (but Eric) liked it so much that they decided to use it. It has sine become one of our most popular songs as well.