A curious thing is happening to me that happens every summer – I’m getting in the zone when I’m playing. I’ve been playing for three straight weeks at more gigs than I can count. Doing all this playing has made my fingertip calluses rock hard and my voice strong with a little edge. It also puts me into an almost dream-like state from lack of sleep and blurring together of gigs. This dream-like state makes me feel different things when I’m performing and seems to give me a weird kind of spiritual connection to the audience. It’s actually pretty cool although it’s also a bit trippy. I tend to forget that this phenomenon can and does happen. I’m sure that musiciansm who tour for long periods of time or actors who do a long run of theater shows experience this too. People working on intense projects for a period of time, or even candidates in the heat of a long political campaign probably see this as well. It lets me go on extended interconnected songs and moments of oneness with the audience that are magical and, yes, spiritual. I’m sure there is a very profound scientific and metaphysical reason for this that we’ll someday know and understand. I just enjoy being caught up in it!
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What have I been up to?
Last Monday and Wednesday were fun days at the Royal Gorge Bridge with Dennis Mills. Monday we had to stop for rain and thunder for almost half the gig, but we had great people to play to, and it was beautiful.
Thursday for Independence Day was a huge night at the Yellow Pine Barbecue. There were so many good friends and big smiles and dancers! It was the one-year anniversary of the fire that devastated so many homes in the area and the miracle of the rain that saved the Yellow Pine and the town of Cuchara. Folks were emotional and thankful.
Friday was a sweet night at Bistoro with good friends and new faces. Yes! Love these folks!
Saturday was a run down to New Mexico to play at Red River Ski Area for a Music on Top concert. I ended up playing inside with rain that nixed the deck stage, and it turned into an acoustic gig when the power went out for the valley and the next one over. It was still a blast, and the difficulties made for a memorable camaraderie. I had a bunch of family out which made it extra special.
Saturday night was a concert at Philmont Scout Ranch that was very enjoyable. I had some surprise attendees and some surprise songs with Ellyn Washburne sitting in that really made the night.
Sunday I played Art in the Park in La Veta for a mellow, contemplative, and appreciative crowd. It was a highlight of my week. I got to do all kinds of songs that I dearly love.
Sunday night was my First-Sunday Online Living Room Concert, and it was a good one. I opened it up to requests, and the audience picked some great songs!
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What’s up this week?
Monday 12:30-4:30 I’m back at the Royal Gorge Bridge with Dennis Mills. We are gelling in a very neat way in our duo that I’d love to have you hear. I’m getting to play a lot of electric guitar which is a treat.
Thursday 6:30-8:00 I’m at the Yellow Pine Barbecue for another fun night in the old barn. We are into the heart of the summer now, and the nights there are very special. I’d love to have you there. If you want to come, please call by Tuesday to make a reservation at 719-742-3528.
Saturday 7:00-9:00+ at the Cuchara Community Center I’m playing for a book signing for Gary Bridges and Justin Toll followed by a dance with Dennis Mills that should be a really fun night. I think it may be one of the best nights of the summer in Cuchara.
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That’s it for this week. I’m glad to have a week that’s a little slower this week. It will be great to have a night at home with Jen and the pets. We’ll see if I can stay in the zone!
Best always,
Tom
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Details this week:
Who: Tom Munch and Dennis Mills
What: playing and singing
Where: South side of the Royal Gorge Bridge on the big stage
When: Monday, July 8, 12:30-4:30 pm
Who: Tom Munch
What: playing & singing at the barbeque
Where: Yellow Pine Guest Ranch, Cuchara. 719-742-3528
When: Thursday, July 11, 6:30-8:30 pm
Who: Tom Munch followed by Tom with Dennis Mills
What: playing a book signing and dance
Where: Cuchara Community Center, Cuchara
When: Saturday, July 13, 7:00-9:00+ pm