It is well established in my nature to be blinded (at times) to the red flags of practicality. I’m a dreamer; born, perhaps, with (metaphysical) rose-colored glasses attached to my head. Even thru those lenses, however, reality eventually becomes unavoidable.

Yesterday was the last broadcast of “Joe Holt’s Notes on the Radio” (at least for now - in it’s current form). Because it was a decision I made after recording the show for 3-14, it’s not mentioned on the program (but will be noted on the website, where most hear it). This was a concept I’d had for many years, and when shown by Norman Satchell (who still hosts a jazz show on Monday nights on WNJC1360am in South Jersey) how I could make it happen, I went for it, beginning in Feb, 2006. After about a year later I added WKDI840am, in Denton MD, soon thereafter, dropping the NJ station, and focusing on making connections thru the website archive. The vision I had, of using media to facilitate increased connections and a larger audience, really took hold when I began posting on YouTube, in June of 2007. It became quickly apparent that video posting was accomplishing my objective (though “vision” may be a better word. Sometimes I am anything but objective), much more so than radio. Nonetheless, I soldiered on, aided by 2 wonderful friends: Rob Hilty (show engineer), and Mike McCoy (station manager at WKDI. Eventually, though, the “red flags of practicality”, even if not seen thru the rose lenses, eventually announce their presence, as they wrap themselves around your ankles (this exercise of tripping over one’s self is avoided by most “sighted” people). What will happen (in this regard) beyond the present is out of my view. What is evident today, though, is the continued leading of God, and ongiong rapport with exceptional people.

Here's a guy who's all heart, at the end of a long day, after a gig on which we worked hard (making the gig successful). Mike McShane is my hero. I think it's fair to say that over the last couple of years, Mike and I have learned, each from the other. It's not unlike the experience I had from 2003-2006 when I worked on staff (as Worship Arts Director) at a church with (Pastor) Jonathan Mills. Two people, having arrived at a similar place, from different directions/experiences/paths, growing from that starting point to a bond of vision, and purpose. Does this sound too lofty a description for a couple of "jazz guys"? This is a "calling" for us, you know (artistic drive is either that or a disease), and we take it seriously. Any sense of loftiness can evaporate quickly, though, when you consider that this is (also) how we put food on the table. Mike's a real-world guy, who knows how to get it done. The more we collaborate on both sides (the music and the business), the clearer that is to me. We're working on a lot (music and business) together (with more seeming to come at us all the time), and I'm happy for that. The next time you see that "Shore Jazz" is gigging at Bethany Blues (or anywhere else), you should come, and check out what I'm talking about. Thanks, Mike!

  

Pre-show prep (w/ Beth McDonald) for the annual "Women Helping Women" fund-raising concert at the Prince Theatre (Chestertown) last evening. Was privileged to (again) serve as "musical director" for the performance (Sue Matthews was the Executive Producer) - which included all the top (women) stage performers from the area. The show was a smashing success, in every regard. Personally, I am often most comfortable in the role of accompanist, making the connection with the performer, in collaborative support. I think it's fair to say that we all were comfortable, and very pleased with the evening. This was my 3rd appearance on this stage in 5 days, including my solo concert - "Spontaneous Joy" - on Saturday (more about that later). Speaking of concerts, looking forward now to the "breakout" show for the "Joe Holt Trio", at the Milton (DE) Theatre, on April 17th. Things continue to fall into place, including Beth McDonald "regrouping" for her rescheduled concert at the Avalon Theatre (May 15th), and hiring my trio (personnel) for her core band. Working now on a new "Joe Holt Trio" CD to release at the Milton on 4/17, and a new - all originals - CD for Beth to be available for her 5/15 show. Good stuff!

Still working on that catching up thing. A busy couple of days ahead, which I'm really looking forward to. In addition to my solo concert at the Prince Saturday night, I'll be having a CD release party (of sorts) across the street at The Compleat Bookseller the night before (Friday/tomorrow) from 5-7pm (in conjunction with "First Friday"). Some weeks ago, I got the idea that a bookstore would be an interesting, if not appropriate "venue" to offer my new "Stories Without Words" CD. After approaching Lanny at the Bookseller, I'm persuaded that appropriate may indeed be the word. Here's the blurb from their website:

"CD Release Party

March 5 - 5-7-p.m. CD release party for Joe Holt's newest "Stories Without Words." Joe will be playing live and in person as we celebrate the release of his newest CD - a collection of improvisations that are nothing short of musical poetry. Join us."

7 CDs, and have never done anything like this. Should be fun!