Flood Relief Benefit for Cypress Rosewood

Cypress Rosewood (Tony Gerber in real life) was on his way home in Nashville Tennessee after a real-life music performance when trouble struck. Nashville was hit hard by terrible flooding, Cypress hearing it called a “five-hundred year flood.” He was unable to get to his home. Fortunately his wife and daughter were able to get out, but his home and shop were flooded and when talking to Progressive Insurance he was told his policy had an “exclusion clause ... for water damage.”

As a result, friends of Cypress have been organizing to raise cash. One such benefit will be this Saturday May 8 at “The Pocket.” Beginning at 4 PM SL time, various musicians will be performing until Midnight. The musicians include OhMy Kidd, Keiko Takamura, and CraigLyons Writer. Also there will be Azar Shelman, whom in real life is Tony Dyson, the man who designed and built R2D2 for the “Star Wars” movies. He will be taking a few minutes to answer questions and pass out a few gifts.

Another event was held Friday at 2:30 PM at the French Quarter sim. Cypress’ “Twitter” has the words, “Everyone making donations, thanks so, so much. We are blessed and we are humbled.”

Earlier this year, Cypress Rosewood was the subject of real-life trouble when a burglar broke into his home while he was performing. Not unlike now, friends raised cash to help make up for the loss of valuable equipment stolen.

The Pocket is located in the Freestar Bay sim at: 216/32/24.

Bixyl Shuftan

Sources: Delinda Dyrssen’s Blog

Spotlight On...Trowzer Boa Live in West Chester, PA 29 August

On Saturday, 29 August, I traveled out to West Chester, PA to see Trowzer Boa, aka Dave Renz in RL. He and his band, the Dave Renz Jazz Duo, were playing at a local, downtown winery, Kreutz Creek Winery. The winery's slogan is "Built on dreams with determination...capturing the art of the wine making process, from vine to bottle." The actual winery is located in West Grove PA, but the place in town sells exclusivley all the wine made there in the pub.

The store front window served as stage and the drummer was perched up there in the window with the remaining band members in front. The band consisted of Dave on sax, a bassist and keyboardist, as well. The band members are all former students of the high school where Dave teaches.

The band played for an amazing 3 hours, taking several breaks. Not being a huge jazz fan, I couldn't say what tunes they played but I thought they were terrific and I smiled and smiled. Nothing like live music to give a person a new respect for a particular form or style of music. This band had an all together fantastic sound and I had a blast. The crowd was fun, there was lots of laughter and I thoroughly enjoyed it.

From his website: "Dave Renz has been playing saxophone professionally on the East Coast since the early 1990’s. His compositions and performances have appeared on cd’s alongside Steve Howe, Ian Anderson (Jethro Tull), Robert Hazard and Annie Haslam (Renaissance). He has recorded with some of the top players/producers in the industry, most recently for Grammy winning producer Phil Nicolo as part of the Klemmer-Hill-Reid project. Dave Renz has performed From New York City to Nags Head North Carolina, and appeared multiple times at the Berks Jazz Festival and Music Fest in Allentown PA. Look for him regularly at Chris’ Jazz Cafe in Center City , The Blue Point Grille, in Princeton New Jersey, and in and around the Philadelphia area."

Since his performance in West Chester, I had occasion to see Trowzer for the first time in SL. Unaccompanied by the band, Trowzer still plays an amazing sax. If you love jazz, check out Trowzer at your next opportunity.

Shellie Sands

Spotlight On...XanderNichting Writer and Tamra Sands

On Friday, 28 August, I visited The Cape at Cupid Lagoon Romantic Resort on Kaiya Islands. Xander started off at 2 pm performing solo. He makes the most beautiful sounds on electric violin. I have been to man Xander shows and always enjoy him immensely. He does big band sounds, jazz, romantic, ballroom dancing tunes and, my favorite, songs from Riverdance. He even had a set of Riverdance dance balls. Those songs are terrific. Imagine though, a Dutchman playing Irish tunes. But, hey, good music is good music and has no ethnic boundaries.

Just before 3 pm, Tamra joined Xander on stage at the mic. This girl has such a beautiful voice and has performed on Broadway in RL. She hit notes that gave me goosebumps.

While Tamra is living in New York and Xander is in Holland, they dual streamed and the sound was truly magnificent. Some of the highlights of their duet included "Amazing Grace," "Route 66," "Eyes of an Angel," Sting's "Fields of Barley" and one of my favorite Streisand songs, "Somewhere." Tamra's manager gave us all her lengthy song list and requests were encouraged. I requested my favorite Tamra song "Eden Will Bloom," and I was not disappointed. She explained that she wrote "Eden Will Bloom" when her nephews were going off to war, which she was against.

This was a dynamic pairing of immense talent and I hope they do it again soon!

By Shellie Sands

NEW COVER CHARGE SYSTEM BEING TESTED FOR MUSIC VENUES

The controversy over music venues utilizing a cover charge has been
ongoing in Second Life for quite a few years. One Second Life
musician, Mankind Tracer, has come up with a Business Model called
CCS (Cover Charge System) for venues and musicians to begin using as a
mandatory cover charge tool to hear your favorite performers.

In an open letter to residents of Second Life, Mankind Tracer
explained how this type of system could be one answer to the
increasing problems of venue closings in-world due to the club owners
not being able to afford to pay their live performers in addition to
the tier costs of running their club. This Cover Charge System would
pay both the musician and the venue owner by an agreed upon percentage
beforehand, freeing the venue-owner from the burden of paying the
musician at all.

HOW IT WORKS--
The musician determines the cover charge amount and both venue and
musician agree beforehand on the percentage the venue will receive for
the show. (Mankind's letter suggests that a $500L cover charge might
be appropriate for his performances, with a 20% split going to the
venue.) The system would be set up prior to the event and once
activated, continually scans the club area for non-paying residents,
as well as logging paying residents into the system.

As residents enter, the CCS sends them a message asking them to pay
the cover charge. If they do not pay, predetermined security
personnel receive notices of avatar names who have not paid. These
security personnel will send the non-paying resident several warning
messages asking them to pay the fee. If they fail to pay after
numerous warnings, the avatar will be ejected from the venue.

CRASHES --
All paying and non-paying avatar names are kept in the system until
the owner clears the list. If an avatar crashes, they can return
without repaying. Likewise, if the sim crashes, they do not have to
repay when they return.

MONIES --
The performer determines the cover charge amount. And the percentage
that the venue would receive would be entirely up to the musician and
venue owner to predetermine. In this sense, the venue owners no
longer have the burden of paying the musician.

FIRST TEST --
At Thursday's first test of the system, Mankind Tracer set the cover
charge for one linden and performed for two hours at his "Sweet Spot"
venue. A considerable crowd was on hand, with several well-known
musicians and managers also in attendance. The crowd asked questions
in IM and on notecards and Mankind addressed each one in between
songs. While the system seemed to work well for this first 1L test
run, the true test would be to actually charge 500 Lindens and see
what the crowd does or doesn't do.

AVAILABILITY/COST
Once the system is tweaked and more test runs are performed
successfully, the system would then be made available. Whether or not
there will be a cost associated with acquiring the actual system
hasn't been determined yet.

RAISING CONCERNS
Several concerns are evident. New residents do not have lindens to
spend, especially for large cover charges. Residents who normally
would frequent several shows in one evening may only be able to attend
one show depending on the cover charge rate. Residents are
less-likely to tip if they are charged the initial fee to get through
the door. Sim owners would need to "parcel-off" their club/venue in
order that the stream isn't broadcasting throughout the entire sim and
also so that the Cover Charge System scans only the club/venue parcel
area. The obvious issues of performers losing their fan base, not
making enough money if people don't choose to attend, and even the
pinch some residents may feel at losing the control over freely
tipping... is of serious concern.

Time will tell how this proposed system will or will not become an
active part of the SL music scene. One thing's certain... people are
sure to make their voices heard on the issue. But that's the great
thing about Second Life, we still have a choice, even with a cover
charge system.

by Mystique Sassoon

“Live ‘n Kickin” - Paisley Beebe Speaks on Her New Music Show in Second Life

On 9 PM Second Life time, Tuesday August 25, a new show opened up in the metaverse: “Live n Kickin.” At “The Pocket.” Pilgrim75 Swashbuckler (Pete Mroz in real life) sang live to the crowd, who danced away to his music. What added to the excitement was that the show was being shown on Treet TV live. Those familiar with SL Media could make out a few familiar names in he audience, in the audience, notably Delinda Dryssen and Paisley Beebe whom with AutumnFoxx Sutherland made the show possible.

“This show was an idea I had from day one when I started in television in Second Life,” Paisley later explained to me, “Being a musician in real-life, it was a no-brainer to do this.” She stated AutumnFoxx Sutherland and Delinda Dyrssen were working with her to get the show up, both “involved in the music scene in SL for years.” But it was Delinda who was producing the show, “I’m paying for it ... which means I have the final say on things, but she is basically doing all the leg work.”

Paisley told me her production role was working with how it would look on Treet, “I’m looking forward to being able to shoot on location, and really get into some great (special) effects and locations.” She went on to say most of Treet’s show’s were “very straight studio-type shoots and events,” not having experimented much with light and filming techniques, “But I want them to go all out, get psychedelic even! To get really funky.”

“The Pocket,” which AutumnFoxx Sutherland and Delinda Dyrssen run, was chosen as their first spot as the place was familiar, “We wanted the first shoot to be easy, cause we didn't know what we would have to really contend with.” But they intend for the show to go to other places besides clubs, “We are not going to be shooting in venues all the time. We are going to be looking for some really way out locations ... underground, in a cave, underwater, in the clouds, in a spaceship, ... I want to do what is not possible in real-life.”

She hoped to involve the audience as well, “we are recording the audience reaction to each song, ... the applause and gestures, and what the musician says to the audience. ... I want our audience to know when they tune into Live n Kickin, they are going to get as near a professional performance as possible, hat it is going to be a really great experience! ... I don't know if you felt it, but the energy and buzz during the filming at Pilgrims show was just fantastic. Just being there in the audience, knowing that it was being filmed. And that Pilgrim was giving his all. He was amazing. I was so exited during the filming, I was dancing around the room. It was such a thrill to showcase such an incredible artist.”

Paisley and Delinda had featured close to a hundred musicians on the “Tonight Live” show on Second Life, “For musicians it’s not just about having a nice vid clip of their work. It’s about doing a gig, for around fifty people in-world. And then getting maximum exposure after that, to probably 3000 people a month in about a month’s time. ... Treet.tv archives are heavily watched over and over. With that sort of exposure, it’s the best way in Second Life for a musician to get to the maximum audience and sell their CD's and Mp3s.”

The show will next appear at Luxor, “We are hoping to bring out all the splendor of the Egyptian theme that Circe Brooms has.” Any musicians interested in getting on the show can contact Delinda Dryssen, “ Delinda is the producer of the show. Poor Del, she has been absolutely inundated, even before our first show was filmed!”

“I want Pilgrim and the other artists we showcase to get to as many avatars as possible, to sell their albums, and to get booked for gigs, both real-life and Second Life, and to get offers and good deals from being exposed on our show. I hope that happens. They deserve it. I can’t stand seeing such amazing talent undiscovered. I just can’t stand it, it breaks my heart. I know how tough it is. I’ve been there, and am still there. I saw it over and over again, and working in radio. Ignored talent. It was so very frustrating. Albums dropped by record companies, buried in basements ... I’m so grateful to help just a little.”

“Live n Kickin” will be weekly, 9 PM SL time every Tuesday, with shows posted on the treet tv website. Eventually, they hope to have videos on iTunes. They have a group for updates, and plan to have a subscribomatic soon.


Bixyl Shuftan

Music News

One venue owner is piloting a new business model beginning this fall. The owner of Rasta Ventures, TributeTim Kwak, has 3 venues, Red Rock Amphitheater (Pop, Country and other genres), Mama's (Blues), and a brand new Urban Alt Rock venue. Also on the sim is Rasta Beach (reggae DJs and one regular live performer a week).

Previously, Red Rock and Mama's have been operated separately from Rasta Beach and sharing staff. Beginning in September, Tim plans on linking the 3 live venues. with the reopening of Red Rock and Mama's and the opening of the new club. These 3 venues have formed a co-op consisting of quite a few live performers.

The concept is that an admission fee of $L200 will be charged. This admission fee will defray the cost of the venue owner of paying the high fees of the performers, as well as supporting the venues for their financial needs. Very often, venue owners are paying money out of their RL pockets to pay tier fees and performers' fees. It is understood that this is an expensive undertaking when one decides to open a live performance venue. As a result, many quality clubs close their doors because they can no longer afford to pay their tiers. planning 15 shows.

The revenue from the co-op will be equally distributed among the co-op members. The venue owner is responsible for coordinating scheduling, supporting venue builds, and providing "professional, well trained hosts," and streams. The objective is to "put on regularly scheduled, high quality performances 4 or 5 nights each week, with each event involving 3 or 4 musicians" "....lasting 3 or 4 hours." The expectation is a 30 avatar attendance, at $L200 a head, for a total revenue of L$90,000 per week in ticket revenues, split between (currently) 8 people, or L$11,250 each per week. At the current conversion rate, that equates to $43.27USD per week for each co-op member. Tim will use his share to pay hosts and managers, and stream fees, etc., but he noted it would not defray all of his costs.

Performers who would be invited to join this co-op would typically be "popular musicians (who) are interested and able to work well with a group of people." The term "popular" might be defined as "an artist with the demonstrated ability to consistently attract at least 30 people to their performances."

This concept is not entirely new. I, as well as others, including performers, have heard of such a thing through the music community grapevine, etc. I have done a small poll of concert goers and performers alike, and some have even said it's been tried before and been unsuccessful. One source explained that another venue owner/performer is also trying a new pay system at his venue.

According to Tim, an ongoing debate has been taking place on the Rasta blog http://rastaliveco-op.blogspot.com. I have collected comments from friends who have been going to live shows in SL for years, a venue owner, and some well know performers here in SL.

The general consensus is that it will not work. Some will go to fewer shows since music has been free from day one. One venue owner fears that if this does become the way music will go in SL, it will make live music "only available to the elite in SL who can afford to pay." This will "reduce the number of SL music fans" and that "one of the few free pleasures available to a new residents is live music." Another comment along those lines was "It won't work as I see it...most people won't wanna be in the 'Elite' group" and "other than groupies and loyal 'gotta catch every show possible' fan," he forsees "a pretty bleak future there." One very popular performer and his manager said they would want no part of it. Others feel it's just plain greed.

Some feel that SL should be an outlet for exposure, as many performers share the website links where RL CDs can be purchased. One comment was on the fact that the fans are never consulted and this is why it has failed in the past.

A big debate was on the "high quality" factor. Many balked at that since who can define high quality? It is a subjective issue, it is not science. Different people see quality in something/ someone that others will not.

On the positive side, some just accept it as the way of the future for music in SL, acknowledging that when venues can no longer afford to stay open, the musicians will have to create their own if they don't already have one, and they will have to charge for admission to cover their expenses, as well as their music.

An interesting point to note is, as many of you may know, often venue owners and musicians encourage fans to get the word out about live music through their blogs, newspapers, other writing avenues, etc. As a reporter covering live music in SL, the price of admission will exceed what I get paid for these articles. How will it then make sense to continue to write about live music as the musicians would like?

Answers to these and other questions remain to be seen. I anxiously await to see how it all plays out. Look for a follow-up piece here as things get underway and the wheels are set in motion.

Shellie Sands

Editors note: Watch for another bright idea to solve this problem tomorrow with Mystique Sassoon

Classical Music Duos find a Virtual World Connection

RALEIGH, NORTH CAROLINA (June 6, 2009) –

Duo Appassionato is a violin duo based in North Carolina. DnA, a duo for piano and oboe, calls Los Angeles home. Although 3,000 miles separate them, this Tuesday, June 9, the two duos will perform together for a concert to benefit the Raleigh Symphony Orchestra. The remarkable thing about this concert is what brought these musicians together in the first place, the virtual world of Second Life.

Second Life, developed by Linden Lab and entering its sixth year of existence, is a web based 3D virtual environment in which all of the ‘in-world’ content is user created. Within Second Life, a growing and dedicated classical music community is thriving. DnA, comprised of former Los Angeles Philharmonic principal oboist David Weiss and his wife, pianist Alpha H. Walker, had been playing regular recitals for Second Life audiences for more than a year when they met and became instant friends with Duo Appassionato. Duo Appassionato consists of violinists Yang Xi and Izabela Spiewak. Both Spiewak and Xi, who is the assistant concertmaster, are members of the Raleigh Symphony Orchestra.

The two duos view this as the beginning of a long musical collaboration and they see this as an indicator of just how powerful a resource Second Life can be for generating interest in classical music. They recently were the featured guests on another classical music resource that emanates from Second Life. “Music Academy OnLIVE,” hosted by Benton Wunderlich, the Second Life avatar of composer David Schwartz, Ph.D. “I think,” says Walker who not only performs but also conducts regular music appreciation talks in the virtual world, “that we are just beginning to see a glimpse the immense potential, the amazing impact that Second Life can have on classical music.” Walker also noted that some of the music on the benefit program was written especially for the two duos by composers who are also engaged in the Second Life classical music scene.

This benefit concert will be held in Raleigh, North Carolina, 8pm Tuesday, June 9, on the campus of Meredith College in the Carswell Recital Hall.

For more information visit: www.raleighsymphony.com, or, www.archive.treet.tv/music-academy-onlive-duo-dna-duo-appassionato

Contact
Robin Bell – Media/Public Relations
Music Academy Online
contact@musicacademyonline.com

The O R I G I N A L S II

by Shellie Sands

On Sunday, 24 May, POL Arida brought together again a collection of SL performers doing exclusively original tunes. The event took place at Rasta Fairy Beach and was hosted by the incredible Harrie Skellerup once again. Each performer played a 30-minute set over the course of 5 hours. This showcase differed from the first one in April, but it was equally as unique in talent.
Kicking off the show were The Born Again Pagans (Madame Anoufhaz and hexx Triskaidekaphobia). This was a surprisingly refreshing band whose music was mellow with a hint of reggae on a couple of songs. They definitely have a sound quite different than one might expect from a band who call themselves Pagans. The band recently released their first album on 9 April 2009. I look forward to catching them around the grid some time.
AMFORTE Clarity was up next performing her original tune "Nothing Concrete." AMFORTE impressed me as sounding a bit like Alannis Morrisset but softer and a little less cynical. Very sweet with a lovely personality, she uses her music as a vehicle for pouring out her self doubt and this is evident in every song. Typically AMFORTE does orginals and some covers. I recommend catching a show if you can.
Lexie Luan is an awesome performer who really plays to the crowd. Her powerful, melodic voice will really capture your attention. A native Philadephian, and personal friend of mine, Lexie has been performing most of her life. Lexie is a talent not to miss!
Following Lexie was Bara Jonson, an upbeat Swedish performer with a strong, resonant voice and fantastic guitar strumming (and some excellent whistling talent too). I've heard him before and really like him. Soon to be a papa and proud of it, Bara will not disappoint--check him out!
POL Arida himself was next and delivered with his usual intense style sprinkled with sadness. Performing some of his best originals, including "One" and "Home," his set closer was "The Last Song Ever." This was, unfortunately, true as POL is taking a wee break and will be greatly missed by the SL music community. Best wishes POL during your hiatus. We look forward eagerly to your return to the SL music scene!
Up next was the fabulous Zorch Boomhauer serenading us with his raspy and sexy voice. Zorch has a terrific stage presence and sings from the heart.
Rich DeSoto took command of the stage next. Rich has a pleasantly surprising sweet tenor voice. His music blends country with folk and his songs are light and upbeat. Ad libbing using the members of audience was a special touch during one of his songs. Some of you may have heard Rich before singing his very funny "Avatar Girl."
Juel Resistance was beautiful as always performing her customary mellow folk-like music. Stream issues (welcome to SL Sunday!) interrupted her set, but this was quickly rectified and we didn't miss much. Try to catch Juel, she is truly delightful.
AcousticEnergy Nitely followed Juel. His name says it all. Strong emotion is captured in every song. A very moving performer, he spoke some of the truest words I ever heard about SL, "some of us have long distance relationships that are difficult to manage, but one day we'll meet and share and feel our tears." This somewhat profound statement was followed by the song "I Can't Wait to See my Joy Upon Your Smile." I was very impressed as a first time listener and highly recommend him. I look forward to seeing Acoustic in the future.
Dann Numbers joined this second presentation of The O R I G I N A L S having appeared at the first one. Enthusiastically performing his bluesy tunes he once again put on an awesome show!
All of the featured performers can be heard regularly on IndieSpectrum Radio, owned and managed by Fox Reinsch (www.indiespectrum.com). Many thanks to POL, Harrie, and all the performers, and a special thanks to hexx Triskaidekaphobia and jsmn Yao of RastaFairy Beach for hosting this fabulous showcase.

THE O R I G I N A L S

On Sunday, April 26th, WAMtv presented the O R I G I N A L S. Brainchild of POL Arida, the O R I G I N A L S consist of SL live musicians performing exclusively original compositions. The event took place in North Norway and was graciously hosted by Harrie Skellerup of Pixel Hill Presents. POL, with the help of others, put it all together strictly for fun and exposing the SL community to some of the best talent in-world. Simulcasted on Indie Spectrum radio, the event was attended, at one count, by 57+ avatars--a wonder we didn't crash the sim!

The lovely Mimi Carpenter kicked off the event with her sweet songs accompanied by guitar. Mimi is a French Canadian and a real pleasure to listen to. Next up was EvaMoon Ember whose Cabaret style sets her apart from many others. Accompanied by well- done back tracks, Eva belted out the tunes for the next 30 minutes.

EvaMoon - Eva has a cabaret like style and is very amusing and entertaining. "The musical equivalent of standup comedy" -- Seattle For booking contact me or Throughthesewalls Moody.

Following Eva was the fabulous Raspberry Rearwin. whose sense of humor and contributions to room chat will keep you rolling in laughter. Contrary to his light and fun banter (also known to "drop dead" on occasion), Rasp's music is serious and mature and exhibits his talent on guitar, as well as piano. Pilgrim75 Swashbuckler (aka Pete Mroz) took the stage next and wowed the crowd with his clear, strong voice, performing ballad/bluesy/folk type music. Winston Ackland performed songs with a country folk flair. A first time listen for me, I was impressed with his talent.

And then the most awesome POL himself! The crowd roared and for many he seemed to be the main attraction (I know for me he was!). Here the SL gods tried their best to interfere and after attempts to connect to 5 different streams, it was not to be. Our good fortune was in the fact that Fox Reinsch (Owner, Indie Spectrum Radio) was in the crowd and provided us with recordings of POL as they continued to struggle with stream issues. Thanks Fox for coming to the rescue! God bless Harrie for her patience and diligence in trying to get POL live. Grace McDunnough commented that Harrie has nerves of steel and a heart of gold--indeed she does. If you haven't heard POL, his music is very intense, emotional and laced with anger. A must see!

Another real treat hit the stage next in the form of Zak Claxton. Although I had never seem him perform in world, I have heard him frequently on the indie stream and always wondered who it was that I liked so much. A real upbeat performer, Zak strummed his guitar regaling us with songs from his soon-to-be released RL album. I will be sure to catch future Zak shows.

A Diva in her own right, Grace McDunnough "graced" the stage next, showcasing her enormous talent in composition. Grace's songs are about people, love, relationships and the ups and downs of life. Grace originally hails from Canada and currently resides in the Southern United States, noted by her frequent "thanks ya'lls" to the crowd. Often referred to as a sultry songbird, her strong voice speaks to the heart, whether performing originals or "gracified" covers. An unassuming Grace felt quite honored to be "sandwiched in" between Zak and Max KIeene.

Maximillion Kleene--Ahh, Max. This guy truly gets around and performs day and night. He hails from Niagara Falls on the Canadian side and is incredibly popular in the SL music scene with a huge fan base. Max has a boyish quality to him that makes him absolutely adorable and refreshing. If you haven't heard Max live, you are truly missing out.

Dann Numbers was another new listen for me, although I've see the name in events. His style was bluesy/down-home stuff and he put on a rockin' show! I look

forward to seeing him again.

Senjata Witt is another popular performer, but this was the first time I was finally hearing her. I was not disappointed. With a powerful voice and some talented guitar work, she put on a great show.

Wrapping up the afternoon was DJ Doubledown Tandino spinning originals and live mixes.

Other notable musicians in attendance included Stella Silvansky, Clairede Dirval, Lexie Luan, , Capos Calderwood, Tamra Sands, Bones Writer, PM Bookmite and Zorch Boomhauer

A good, fun time was had by all. Many thanks, POL, Harrie, Luka and countless others serving as hosts. I look forward to the May event!

Shellie Sands

Interview with Ichie Kamachi

By Bixyl Shuftan

I first saw Ichie Kamachi at Mystery during one of her live music performances at Mystery. A great singer with a beautiful tone, the audience applauded every song. Later on, I had a chance to meet up with her (accompanied by her close friend Greek Miklos), and ask about how she became a singer in Second Life and other details of her musical career here.

Bixyl Shuftan: So how did you hear about Second Life?

Ichie Kamachi: I was with some other freinds in a forum and we were on There.com. Some of them migrated here and convinced us to check it out. I’ve been here ever since.

Bixyl Shuftan: How was your time as a newcomer here?

Ichie Kamachi: I was very very sheltered for the first few months. Our friends owned a sim. I never left there, except to shop. And only when someone TP'd me there. So the first ... oh 4 months was like that. I finally started to get out more places, but I was basically a newbie for a long time, didn't know how to do much but dance, sit, and chat. (laugh) But it's the people I started to meet that kept me here. Second Life is full of amazing people.

Bixyl Shuftan: What gave you the idea of becoming a singer here?

Ichie Kamachi: I have a friend I met here. His name is Detritus Rau, awesome guitarist. He wanted to perform live here, but he doesn't sing and he found out I could. He planted the bug. First it was he'd send his backing tracks and I'd play my voice over them and he'd use that and play over then in his shows. Then I spoke to some other friends who are in the music business in real life, and they helped me get set up to sing live here.

Bixyl Shuftan: How did your first sessions go?

Ichie Kamachi: Very well. the very first time. Detritus IMed that he was playing and TPed me there. When I got there he said, “Okay, this is your two song warning: I signed you up to sing.”

“What are you going to do?” I thought to myself, “people are waiting... for you. So you get up and do it.”

But I've been very very blessed, very well received here in Second Life.

Bixyl Shuftan: Do you also sing in real-life?

Ichie Kamachi: Not any more. I grew up mostly in Hawaii, and they have a strong music community there. I used to do some singing with some of the entertainers there. But now, only in my bedroom. :)

Bixyl Shuftan: How many performances do you do a week?

Ichie Kamachi: Anywhere from about 8-14 or so. A lot of them regular shows, like the Queen of Hearts Club on the Mystery Sim. I'm there every other Wednesday at 4 PM SL time. :) We always get an awesome group of people there, one of my favorite places to perform. And Tygeria LOVES the naughty song :) It has been going over really big in Second Life.

Bixyl Shuftan: Besides singing, I notice on your profile you also write.

Ichie Kamachi: (laughs) Yes. I'm what I refer to as a "dabbler." I do a lot of things, passably I would like to think. But until now, nothing ... very well. Writing has gone on hold for a while, though people keep asking. So I need to finish the rewrites and post it somewhere.

Bixyl Shuftan: Going back to music, what would be your favorite kinds of songs to perform?

Ichie Kamachi: Oh anything I love. But, I really love the old stuff: jazz, ballroom, blues ... stuff even before my time. *winks* (laugh)

Bixyl Shuftan: heh ;-)

Ichie Kamachi: I'm starting to like the obscure songs, and lesser known artists.

Ichie crashed at this point in the interview, but soon returned and went back to the subject.

Ichie Kamachi: My favorite song changes all the time. Right now, it's songbird. Which is a good thing since that is my first single I'm bringing out.

Bixyl Shuftan: Oh? Could you give some details?

Ichie Kamachi: Well, my fans have been asking for MP3's and CD's for months now, and it was pretty daunting. But we are working with some great people who have the resources we need. So the custom backing should be done this weekend and hopefully the single will be out for sale within 2 weeks. Then we'll be working on a full CD. Probably romantic jazz and ballroom, but that's not firm yet.

People are waiting, although right now I have about half a dozen Second Life DJ's who play my songs in their sets when they work. I love my fans. They are not only very loyal, but many of them have gone out of their way to help push my "career." And I've gotten many new fans from the DJ's playing my songs at the different clubs.

Bixyl Shuftan: Have there been any particularly memorable performances, such as something unexpected being pulled by the audience or host?

Ichie Kamachi: Hmmm, let's see ... Not really performances, but it's when people are touched by what I do. I had one young girl who was coming to all my shows, and I wondered why since I was doing mostly the jazz back then. She told me one day that her sister was older and a singer and she remembers sitting at her feet listening to her practice the same songs. But all her family is gone now.

Then another lady who loves when I do Bobby McGee. Her late hubby was a producer on Janis' last album. They are both gone, but it brings back good memories for her. That's why I do this. That's where I get the most satisfaction. It still astounds me when people say I make them cry. As long as people enjoy it, it makes me happy to do it. I also do a lot of benefits, my way of giving back.

Bixyl Shuftan: What charities have you performed at?

Ichie Kamachi: Oh so many. Cancer and autism are my two big ones. So are Relay for Life events. Blues for Autism I did last month. That was awesome. People don’t realize I do more than jazz. I've only done some for the Australian bush fires and some smaller charities too, and Make-a-Wish Foundation, Intrepid Fallen Heroes Fund, Children of Ireland, American Cancer Society, and another cancer one in Europe. I forget the name. But almost any charity that can show they are legitimate, I try and make room for.

Bixyl Shuftan: Bringing up something that maybe I should have brought up earlier, I notice that Greek has been by your side the whole time. What can you tell of him?

Ichie Kamachi: (laughs) Greek is an amazing man. :) He holds my heart but he has also been my strongest supporter. He does a bit of everything.

Greek Miklos: Thank you Love, but I am nothing more than just a simple poet and wordsmith.

Ichie Kamachi: He helps find me shows, greets my fans, helps me wade through the legal gobbly gook ... I don’t know what I'd do without him. And yes he is an amazing poet.

Greek Miklos: *blushes*

Ichie Kamachi: :) And modest (laughs)

Bixyl Shuftan: *chuckle* Do you have any future plans with your singing career, or anything else?

Ichie Kamachi: I am always looking toward the future, like I mentioned. Right now, trying to get these recordings out. After that who knows. :) I'm always open to offers and suggestions, especially those that are win-win for every one. :)

Greek Miklos: Just not the kind we have made to each other ... the offers I mean.

Ichie Kamachi: Yes of course Love :) ... We do get some of those too. (laugh)

Greek Miklos: But we are so happy together.

Ichie Kamachi: Yes we are. :)

Bixyl Shuftan: Anything else that you'd like to add?

Ichie Kamachi: Hmmm ... Anything, Love?

Greek Miklos: I am happy that the Second Life community has been so receptive to Ichie

Ichie Kamachi: I am grateful, yes! To my fans and friends, without them, I wouldn't be where I am. I know it sounds cliche, but it's very true. Your fans can make or break you in Second Life especially. I never forget that, and love to see them return again and again. They all become good friends.

Greek Miklos: And don't forget the great venue owners who have given Ichie a chance to show what she can do.

Ichie Kamachi: Yes, I love my venues.

Greek Miklos: They are some great people.

Ichie Kamachi: Like family. And most of them I'd bend over backward to help, and have. Like the Queen of Hearts Anniversary. I was totally booked for this weekend, but slid them in. I didn't want to miss something so important.

It was then that the interview ended, we wished each other well, and we went our seperate ways.

Ichie Kamiche keeps a schedule of her events in her profile.

“If you are looking for a voice that is sultry, sensuous, and as smooth as butter to set a truely romantic tone to your night, look no further. With a heart as big as her voice, I guarantee you will not be disappointed.”

Bixyl Shuftan

Interview with SL Musician ZDiva Sorbet

By Nazz Lane

A friend had introduced us shortly after I’d heard her perform for the first time. She’d wowed the audience that evening with a marvelous voice and a professional stage presence. Normally a solo artist, she’d appeared that day in a dual stream performance with her SL Partner Diesel Karillion. We chatted briefly after the show and discussed dates and time for a meeting. We both had busy schedule and it was a few weeks before we did so. We met in my office at this newspaper headquarters.

“Hello there! Don’t mind the get up, I’m doing a 70's disco gig at 6pm and I’m totally Gloria Gaynor’ed out.” She said as she arrived.

I commented that she hadn’t rezzed for me yet and she replied, “Trust me. I’m a walking disco ball, which is all good. Give the people what they want. I was a ferret for April fool's day. The venue owners wanted different. So I sat on my tip jar all night as a ferret and sang.”

“Isn't that what show business is all about.” I commented.

“Absolutely!” She exclaimed then added, “My mom was a lounge singer, and as a kid I grew up in bars with her band ... she would wear all the bling in the world, the costume jewelry to match. She said it was all a show, from sound to visuals. I think I’m channeling that.”

“When did you start performing?” I asked, and then quickly added for clarification, “In both RL and SL.”

“In RL ... around age ten, but not professionally. I come from a very musical family ... I took piano and cello since I was a kid and did recitals. Mom is a voice coach sang a lot with her and my brother at church things. I learned at her knee, than started doing my own gigs around town, mostly weddings, piano bars, tagging along with a piano player I know. It's a fun thing for me, really. Meet a lot of great people … SL is the same. I’ve only been singing in SL since July.”

“What bought you into SL?”

“A pal of mine who was singing here asked me to come in and I showed up ...Voila! It wasn't too much prodding needed. I'm a computer nerd by trade, I do websites in RL and the whole program fascinated me and the live music scene that he was talking about. How I loved it right from the get-go, I go listen more than I sing in SL ... enjoy the theatrics of it all ... the talent ... the diversity. “

“Is there one memory and venue here in SL that stands out for you?”

“Actually yes … While there are many that I'm endeared to for giving me my start in SL, namely Jade's Jazz Island and Heavens Tears. The one venue that stands out in my mind ... is on a SIM called Bosporus because I got to sing on a suspension bridge over a bay dancing my tail off on top of an old cab ... everyone around me having a great time. It was just so breathtaking. I thought to myself while I was singing ... can this get any better.”

“Do you write some of your songs?”

“I wish I did. I play instruments, and I sing, but songwriting is not one of my skills. I guess I can't have everything. One of the things I wish I could do for myself. I have to be happy with the idea that not all musicians can write their own music. Seeing jazz singer Diana Krall in concert this summer ... she sings all standards, other people's music, and she's okay with that. It has to work for me as I can't do it myself.”

“Is there one genre you prefer to perform?”

“If I had to answer… I'd say Broadway. However, there isn't much of an audience in SL, that I’ve come across anyway, that wants to hear a lot of it. I grew up listening to Broadway stuff... When I was living in NY, I'd make a trip to the city and catch the shows.”

“Where do you see yourself in six months to a year from now?”

“In RL, no place different … Just more oratorio under my belt and a nicer resume for soloist work around town. In SL, that’s hard to say. I have this weird fear... of over exposing myself. Like the people in my fan groups would tire of hearing my voice. I think I'm pretty lucky to be doing as well as I am in SL as it is. I can't really hope for much more. People, their tastes change … and the SL music scene is seeing new faces and hearing new voices day by day. So I may be lost in the mix. I hope I won’t.”

“If a new SL musician came to you for advice, what would you tell them?”

“New SL musicians come to me all the time and I love it. I've helped three of them in the last two months alone. Not sure why they come to me ... but they do and I’m more than happy to get them started. They ask questions about music, equipment, booking gigs, getting your name out there … but I do impart one piece of advice to all of them … don't let it stop being fun. I think that's paramount. When you lose sight of the happiness and joy that you can bring to people and it turns into drudgery … something you feel you have to do and it no longer is a fun thing … step back and regroup.”

Heron Island Performance Space

I'd arrived early, TP'ing over to look around before meeting Gillian Carthage at the Heron Island Performance Space.
I'd been there with Bri, attending a concert the week before. While there, I'd introduced myself in between shows to Gillian and we set a date and time to meet for this interview.
Gillian and her partner Carter are the owners and operators of the venue.
The venue is empty right now, the three blue Heron's stand sentry next to the entry, waiting on the arrival of the next performer to grace the stage and his or her accompanying crowd.
I stroll past them and into the build, passing over the glass block textured floor and looked for a place to sit.
The bench seating arranged into a semi-circle around the performers area rezzes as I approach.
I select sit from the pie menu and sit. Waiting now, I scan around with the camera controls admiring the open air venue and the minimalism of build.
Ms Carthage soon arrived in world and joined me on the bench.
"I've been here for a little while now, admiring the build. How are you doing today Gillian?" I asked.
"I'm great, thanks, and you?" Gillian responded. "Carter put the venue together."
"In your profile, the 1st Life tab, you say that 'RL is so good I almost didn't explore SL', what bought you into SL and why have you stayed?" I ask her.
"Well my husband was interested. A lot of the people he works with are involved, and as his industry is learning that it must support virtual reality, he decided to check it out and I came along for the ride. And then I went to a concert and after that I couldn't stay out" She replied.
"Do you remember who the performer was and the venue?" I asked.
"I knew you would ask that. I think it might have been Picker Apogee at Muse Isle." She replied.
"Can you tell me about the name Gillian? Is there a meaning behind your SL name selection?"
"Ah, well I knew of a Gillian long ago. She didn't really know me, but I bought organic produce from her. She was an herbalist and was just a beautiful, lovely person I admired a lot. So when I had the opportunity to give myself a name, I chose Gillian. For me it evokes health and vitality." Gillian replied.
"Is Heron your first venue?" I asked her.
"Yes it is. I have just built a second venue, but have yet to have the first concert there. I hope to christen her in the next week or two." She responded.
"How long has it been open and is there a meaning behind the name 'Heron'?" I ask her.
"I have always been in awe of the Heron, which is a magnificent creature. So when it came time to name the island that was my choice. We have been up and running for about a year and a half now, though not in this location in SL." She replied.
"How much time does it take to manage Heron?" I asked.
"Well it is a commitment and we do spend a lot of time here . . . in sheer hours it's hard to say. We have about 20 concerts a month, so we are here for all of those plus extra times scheduling and ironing out technical issues like streaming problems. I also try to hear new artists who come to SL. Respond to requests for auditions. I am here a lot." Gillian replied.
"Are there any notable performances or memorable moments that stand out for you?" I asked.
"Well it's always fun when one or the other SIM crashes during a show. Really, it makes us laugh. I am trying to think of a standout moment . . . but what really comes to mind is that we have really grown into a very warm, vital community here. We are so honored by the fine musicians who bring their gifts here . . . and we are dazzled by the people who attend. They are kind, warm, witty, fun to be around. We have become good friends and it's really so much more than just sitting listening to good music. It's friendship. It's a circle." Gillian replied
"How about a moment that you'd like to forget?" I ask.
"Well we've been griefed in ways that did not amuse. That makes me feel bad because the people behind it miss the fabulous reasons we are here. I guess they don't turn on their music players." She replied and smiled.
"Beside the new venue that you're going to open, do you have any other plans for the next year?" I asked.
"Well we are going to get Teal Island up and running and see how that goes. The new venue is named Cinnamon Park by the way. Everything we do is done with an eye to funding the music program here. All our revenues go to that. So it would be lovely to develop the estate to the point that we can grow the concert schedule but that depends on interest by others." She replied.
"Do you have any closing thoughts you'd like to share with my readers?" I ask."We extend a hearty welcome to all who would like to come hear the best that SL has to offer." She replied and smiled.
With Nazz Lane

RL ROCK BAND SPIRAL TRANCE RETURNS TO SL

More details can be found in M.A.C.E

Exciting news from BnT

Country Music Association Endorses Second Star

Go to M.A.C.E. for more details



Major League Combat Inaugural Battle

With MLC online now, MLC administrators have scheduled a full scale battle

Click EVENTS for full details and SL-URL

FESTIVAL OF FIRE

The House of Flames and Sonicbids invite you to an evening of old and new with a four-hour live music showcase event

More information is available in our EVENTS section

Keep up to date with the happenings in Zurich at the Opera house and Lindenfor Park, the Winter Skating location, in our M.A.C.E. section

Club calls out for bands and musicians for Cancer society event

What; 24 hour LIVE AID FOR American Cancer Society

Where: The Lava pit, sunflower Island

SLurl; http://slurl.com/secondlife/Sunflower%20Island/159/239/40

When: December 16th 5am SLT

Hi this is Mama Norfolk from The Lava Pit in Second Life , we are having a live aid concert event on December 16th to benefit the American Cancer Society .

We are looking for any bands/musicians that would like to perform for this great event that will be streamed over a lot of sims (count is still going up).

All tips from musicians and donations will be for Cancer research , I am sure that all of us know someone that is battling cancer and would like to help in any way we can to find a cure and advanced treatments for cancer.

Musicians will need to donate at least one hour of their time . Time slots are going fast so if you would like to participate please contact me or Durell Celt as soon as possible .

This will be a 24 hour event starting at 5am SLT Sunday December 16th

BnT To Produce "Second Star" Talent Contest

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: BnT To Produce "Second Star" Talent Contest

BNT proudly announces that it has signed a contract with a major Nashville talent firm to produce, within SL, the "Second Star" talent contest for singers and musical performers.
The contest winner is guaranteed to receive a recording contract with a major label, and perform a half-time show at a National Football League regular season game.

"Now that BNT has conquered the estate and security fields, and is setting new standards in the SL capital markets, we are moving forward with our further plans to expand the company and become a major SL development company," CEO IntLibber Brautigan said today. "As we are a registered full-service SL Developer and are poised to remake the capital markets, it’s only natural that we start building more RL corporate relationships and creating mainstream media events."

Performers within SL will be able to register for Second Star in the next few days.
There is a registration fee of L$2,500 to enter, and contestants must submit a URL of prior performances/recordings for evaluation. In addition, contestants will be scheduled for a mandatory live performance before judges and an audience at venues in and around BnT sim.

Register at: http://www.bntholdings.com