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Discussions => Tune of the Month => Topic started by: theSmoiler on November 06, 2009, 11:41:15 PM

Title: TOTM Project Evaluation
Post by: theSmoiler on November 06, 2009, 11:41:15 PM
OK folks, TOTM has been going for about 6 weeks now...and I've been thinking since end of the October one that it would be good to have some general evaluation of the project so far (you can tell I've been on too many Courses... ;))

So, there's lots of positives I could say, but, to kick off - isn't it just great to see all these different boxes coming out of the woodwork (like Derek's blue one, which otherwise rarely gets an airing...and which I'm coveting... :P)! and, for this project to allow us to so easily observe and evaluate their individual  sounds (and appearance)? eg I was struck by just how different in tone the Baffetti/ Oakwood sounded from other boxes in one contribution, and also really liked the Serenellini Selli.

Great opportunity for us MAD people to give some of our lesser-used boxes a showcasing - particularly as different boxes are likely to be more or less appropriate to the different TOTMs, given different tones, etc.

Lots more to say in evaluation - but, I tend to hate writing such things as I've either too much, or nothing. to say! - so, over to somebody else...
Title: Re: TOTM Project Evaluation
Post by: Martin Duffy on November 06, 2009, 11:46:11 PM
I've found it quite helpful to watch others playing the same tune as it's given me some idea of how to work those pesky basses!  That said, my poor Delicia has a dodgy chord & is about to go off for repair so I'm unable to play this months TOTM anyway!
Title: Re: TOTM Project Evaluation
Post by: Pete Dunk on November 07, 2009, 12:00:57 AM
(like Derek's blue one, which otherwise rarely gets an airing...and which I'm coveting... :P)!

Yes, me too, the tone is glorious but I can see why it might be shoved to the back; large, heavy, perhaps a little slow to speak.

Evaluation of the project? Well 'tis plain for all to see. Iincreased interest in the forum and highly entertaining/informative performances. What more could you ask?
Title: Re: TOTM Project Evaluation
Post by: Sandy on November 07, 2009, 12:36:12 AM
I have really enjoyed hearing the different styles of playing.  (Great as i don't get to many sessions or gigs)

I also like viewing the 'experimental' or 'therapeutic' submissions.  ;D  (I like the freedom of speech!)

And sooo many boxes.......never realised the choices.....wonderful. 

Cheers

Sandy
 (:)

p.s. I don't think now that I will ever approach a tune from just one angle! :||:
Title: Re: TOTM Project Evaluation
Post by: Chris Ryall on November 07, 2009, 08:28:09 AM
The variety is all. Sat playing in own study, or going to the same sessions you really get stuck in a rut. While this can be good (it develops that 'local style') I think TOTM's cross fertilisation will be better for most us (certainly for me) in the long run. Long may it continue.  :||:
Title: Re: TOTM Project Evaluation
Post by: HallelujahAl on November 07, 2009, 09:15:56 AM
Quote
Great opportunity for us MAD people to give some of our lesser-used boxes a showcasing

Quite so, and I think it's delightful to see so many different systems playing the same piece.
AL
Title: Re: TOTM Project Evaluation
Post by: Theo on November 07, 2009, 09:46:56 AM
Yes its been an eye-opener to me too,  such enthusiasm and creativity, brilliant.  ;D

I'm slightly surprised that I've only seen one example of a B/C/C# in TOTM, considering the amount of discussion there is about them.   :o
Title: Re: TOTM Project Evaluation
Post by: Chris Brimley on November 07, 2009, 10:47:07 AM
I think it's been hugely successful, and I find it not only shows you how others play, but also makes you want to evaluate and improve your own playing, because you know you're going to be doing it in front of a more than usually knowledgeable audience! 

I find it astonishing how different people's styles are, when you watch them play.  I find that I keep asking myself why I play a certain run of notes in one way, when others do it completely differently. This is great for learning.

I somehow doubt that we're going to keep this pace up, but that won't matter!
Title: Re: TOTM Project Evaluation
Post by: NeilA on November 07, 2009, 10:51:59 AM
The whole thing has been great. All the different performances of the tunes and the discussions, opinions and advice about playing them has been terrific for a beginner. I have liked the choice of LIDL as maybe being less familiar to most it  has generated more discussion on the playing of the tune and in a short time some great videos (and the things some people can do with a Morgane, DTN - I'm sure it's not the same box as mine!!). Long may it continue!

I really like the sound of the Serenellinis and am now looking out for a 233.

Neil
Title: Re: TOTM Project Evaluation
Post by: Chris Ryall on November 07, 2009, 11:43:34 AM
Much chatter about different 'systems'.  And yes some kit will have a nice tone.

Although keyboard layouts, ready 'accidentals' (not a word I like) will surely condition what can be done on any particular box - it is actually about different people's music style.

I really do think that is fundamental.



[edit] Been experimenting (not accidentally) with 'accidental' Eb and Fnat notes against the same chords, which miraculously work. Also new camera!
Title: Re: TOTM Project Evaluation
Post by: Pete Dunk on November 07, 2009, 01:03:52 PM
'accidentals' (not a word I like)

Yes it is odd isn't it? Flats and sharps are only really accidentals when they don't belong in the key signature of the piece being played. How can Bb be an accidental in the key of F? You would think there would be a proper collective noun for the black notes.

*Back on topic* This TOTM has already thrown up a wonderful variety of interpretations and playing styles and we're only a few days into the month. GbH hasn't contributed yet but I suspect he's brewing up something spectacular after DTNs last outing.   >:E
Title: Re: TOTM Project Evaluation
Post by: Owen Woods on November 07, 2009, 01:31:49 PM
I think it's great and I've really enjoyed listening to them. At some point I shall have to get some sort of recording device that will enable me to take part.
Title: Re: TOTM Project Evaluation
Post by: Simon on November 07, 2009, 01:49:00 PM
Flats and sharps are only really accidentals when they don't belong in the key signature of the piece being played.
Not that uncommon; even the melodic minor scale contains notes out of the key signature.
You would think there would be a proper collective noun for the black notes.
Perhaps because there's no real difference between white and black notes? We could just call them black notes though.
Title: Re: TOTM Project Evaluation
Post by: **DTN** on November 07, 2009, 01:51:06 PM
More tunes to come with TOTM as:-

I've still got to get out my:-

Castagnari Dony 12 DG
Saltarelle Connemara 3 DG (i have 2 - 1 has broken bellows)
Castagnari Max D
Hohner Pokerwork DG (i have 2 (1 is wreckage))
Hohner 3 stop 1 Row A
Dino Baffetti DG
Hohner 4 voice Swing tuned CF

As i've already used my:-
Castagnari Mory DG
Bernard Loffet CF
Saltarelle GC
Hohner Morgane D

Wife says i have too many boxes! (she only sees 7 of them  >:E )

So plenty more variations to come! ;D

Derek
Title: Re: TOTM Project Evaluation
Post by: Chris Ryall on November 07, 2009, 02:04:44 PM
Quote
Flats and sharps are only really accidentals when they don't belong in the key signature of the piece being played.
Not that uncommon; even the melodic minor scale contains notes out of the key signature.

.. specifically Eb and F natural for C melodic minor  ;)  which in its 5th (G) mode has virtually all the notes in Inconnu's  'A' music.  Interesting!

Quote
Perhaps because there's no real difference between white and black notes? We could just call them black notes though.

But then wouldn't we be playing a harpsichord  ???
Title: Re: TOTM Project Evaluation
Post by: GbH on November 07, 2009, 04:59:22 PM
*Back on topic* This TOTM has already thrown up a wonderful variety of interpretations and playing styles and we're only a few days into the month. GbH hasn't contributed yet but I suspect he's brewing up something spectacular after DTNs last outing.   >:E

Nope, quite the opposite, as it turns out.  For November's tune, something more subtle seemed more appropriate.
Title: Re: TOTM Project Evaluation
Post by: Rob Phillips on November 07, 2009, 05:02:55 PM

So, there's lots of positives I could say, but, to kick off - isn't it just great to see all these different boxes coming out of the woodwork (like Derek's blue one, which otherwise rarely gets an airing...and which I'm coveting... :P)! and, for this project to allow us to so easily observe and evaluate their individual  sounds (and appearance)? eg I was struck by just how different in tone the Baffetti/ Oakwood sounded from other boxes in one contribution, and also really liked the Serenellini Selli.

My evaluation of the project  --  a beautifully simple idea that's produced a tremendous amount of pleasure. Long may it continue. In terms of evaluating the tones of the various boxes, in my case at least (probably the Baffetti referred to by Dianne) the recording system had a profound influence on the end result. The camera I used produced a sound that didn't much resemble the actual melodeon! Since uploading that clip for ToM, I've tried re-recording the tune using a webcam with a simple desk mic  --  much sweeter. I'll use this combination next time. Anyhow, during October I enjoyed listening to every contribution (it was addictive  --  very tempting to go onto the ToM thread whilst supposedly working in my office...........  )

Title: Re: TOTM Project Evaluation
Post by: graememackay on November 07, 2009, 05:08:32 PM
I think everyone agrees at what a great idea it is.

It's getting me to do things with my accordion that I wouldn't normally do in front of people.  Practising to get it to a perfomance level is something that I haven't had to do in a long time, normally a case of read the music, play the tune. 

For TOTM, I'm looking beyond that and trying to see what I can do with it that would be a bit different to my normal playing & what other people may be doing.  Also using my box to its potential.
Title: Re: TOTM Project Evaluation
Post by: SteveC on November 07, 2009, 05:35:41 PM
As a beginner of just six weeks I've found TOTM an inspiration.

It's a genuine help to see how different players play tunes and even just hold the box.

As a lover of music generally, I've really enjoyed all the different interpretations and styles. I always thought I disliked Speed the Plough and swore I would never learn to play it. Now I am inspired to learn it in a minor key or 5/4!

I hope TOTM continues for a long time to come.
Title: Re: TOTM Project Evaluation
Post by: juker on November 07, 2009, 09:10:02 PM
I love TOTM and look forward to reading/watching the new posts. I have learned a great deal and, as a beginner on the box, find it all very instructive and interesting. I have to admit that I am feeling more reluctant to post my own efforts than I was at first as the standard is so very good. Catching up with what is happening on mel.net and ToTM is one of the best parts of the day, long may it last  (:)
Title: Re: TOTM Project Evaluation
Post by: Pete Dunk on November 08, 2009, 12:19:35 AM
I have to admit that I am feeling more reluctant to post my own efforts than I was at first as the standard is so very good.

No, no, no! The more advanced players aren't posting videos to frighten you off, just enjoying themselves, joining in the spirit of the thing and giving you something to aspire to, to watch, gawp at and enjoy (oh, and they're not above learning from each other, in fact they relish it!). I've enjoyed every single video posted so far, it's not a competition in any way. Your input is as valuable as any other member of the forum and as matter of fact might prove to be a benchmark for the success of the project/thread as your playing improves over the coming months - and it will, believe me.  ;)

Pete
Title: Re: TOTM Project Evaluation
Post by: Clive Williams on November 08, 2009, 12:55:06 AM
Your input is as valuable as any other member of the forum and as matter of fact might prove to be a benchmark for the success of the project/thread as your playing improves over the coming months - and it will, believe me.  ;)

Absolutely - one of the best bits for me is seeing how people's take on the tune changes over the month as they become more confident with it.

Don't forget all this is AndyShear's idea - I think we owe him a pint!  :|glug

Cheers,

Clive
Title: Re: TOTM Project Evaluation
Post by: juker on November 08, 2009, 01:44:06 AM
Oh I didn't mean to suggest that anyone was trying to frighten me off, or being competitive :|bl Far from it, this is the most friendly and welcoming of forums and ToTM has continued in that vein. I love the tunes too and am enjoying learning them - if I am a bit shy of posting videos of me performing them it is because of my own concerns, not because of anything on this forum. Long live Tune of the Month!!
Title: Re: TOTM Project Evaluation
Post by: rees on November 08, 2009, 01:48:05 AM
I think TOTM is the biggest and best thing to happen to the British melodeon scene since No Reels or Andy Cutting or Jackie Daly (or some other big thing what has happened to it).
It is so accessible.
I have been gobsmacked by the response. It's educational, it's fun and it's legal.
Title: Re: TOTM Project Evaluation
Post by: Simon on November 08, 2009, 09:03:54 AM
It's great to see all the different versions of the tune and the difference in playing styles. The TOTM is also a good opportunity to see what you can do with a tune. Usually I go for the straightforward approach of playing the obvious with only small variations. All those different recordings are a great inspiration to figure out less obvious chords or variations. The downside is recording yourself always makes me realize that I play a lot worse than I thought.  ;D
Title: Re: TOTM Project Evaluation
Post by: xgx on November 08, 2009, 09:05:04 AM
.... It's educational, it's fun and it's legal.

shouldn't stop you enjoying it though ;D

mind you, if a little guilt enhances your pleasure just check how many days of your life you've spent on here :o
Title: Re: TOTM Project Evaluation
Post by: **DTN** on November 08, 2009, 02:59:48 PM
The downside is recording yourself always makes me realize that I play a lot worse than I thought.  ;D

Actually i believe its more about ones own perception of ones own performance! .. to those that listen in it will be far better and well received than you would perceive it yourself !
Because it is in reality better than you think!, Its the same for us at any playing level , I bet all of us groan a bit at what we record, when we play it back! ... its just human nature!
Ever lent your box to someone else to play? ... It always seems to sound better when someone else plays it! ... its the same thing!!
The best bit is it makes you stay at it! ..practice - practice!!... and when you look back on your old videos you really realise how far you've come and massively improved ... you only get better believe me!
Good luck and look forward to hearing you
    :||:   DEREK   :||:
Title: Re: TOTM Project Evaluation
Post by: theSmoiler on November 08, 2009, 09:14:38 PM

eg I was struck by just how different in tone the Baffetti/ Oakwood sounded from other boxes in one contribution, and also really liked the Serenellini Selli.

In terms of evaluating the tones of the various boxes, in my case at least (probably the Baffetti referred to by Dianne) the recording system had a profound influence on the end result. The camera I used produced a sound that didn't much resemble the actual melodeon! Since uploading that clip for ToM, I've tried re-recording the tune using a webcam with a simple desk mic  --  much sweeter. I'll use this combination next time.


Just to clarify, Rob, my comment certainly wasn't meant as a criticism - far from it - but merely an observation. I'm on my third Oakwood, and have always thought of them as special boxes - though none of them have sounded the same as each other, nor indded the same as anyone else's Oakwood!; and I've never had Binci reeds. So, it was interesting to then hear one in contrast to other boxes. However, you then explain that it doesn't sound like that, anyway! lol. I find it incredibly difficult to know what the sound of your own box is like. In the past I've found using a 'stick' mic on the computer to be worse, due to the amount of distortion producued by a loud box.

Diane
Title: Re: TOTM Project Evaluation
Post by: Rob Phillips on November 08, 2009, 10:16:02 PM

Just to clarify, Rob, my comment certainly wasn't meant as a criticism - far from it - but merely an observation. I'm on my third Oakwood, and have always thought of them as special boxes - though none of them have sounded the same as each other, nor indded the same as anyone else's Oakwood!; and I've never had Binci reeds. So, it was interesting to then hear one in contrast to other boxes. However, you then explain that it doesn't sound like that, anyway! lol. I find it incredibly difficult to know what the sound of your own box is like. In the past I've found using a 'stick' mic on the computer to be worse, due to the amount of distortion producued by a loud box.

Diane

Thanks, Diane. Your comment wasn't received as a criticism! Given the approximate quality of the low-fi recording equipment I used, the best way of knowing what the box sounds like is to give it a squeeze. If you're at Witney, be my guest  --  I'll look out for you. The box concerned has seen better days but it has, shall we say, character!

Rob
Title: Re: TOTM Project Evaluation
Post by: GbH on November 08, 2009, 10:19:08 PM
Even thought we're only two tunes in, I feel that the TOTM project has already taught me a great deal - far more than I'd bargained for.  As a great deal of my playing has previously developed from watching genereal YouTube videos, I didn't initially expect TOTM to make a big difference to me.  However, seeing so many people attempt the same thing has really opened my eyes as to what's possible, what I personally like to listen to and what aspects of my own playing need the most development.  The down side of it is that I've found it too easy to get dispondent about my own abilities after watching those with more experience, but I guess that's all part of it too (or just the way my brain works).

Another aspect that I like about it is the (imagined?) need to do something distinctive or imaginative.  To my way of thinking, the project would not be nearly so interesting if everyone was trying to achieve the same goal.  As it is, I think that there's been plenty of evidence to see that people have been trying to put their own mark on their entries, which has in turn resulted in a variety of ideas that you'd struggle to find using just a conventional YouTube search.

I think it's good that more people have been encouraged to make videos or recordings.  Firstly, because I now have a better idea about 'who does what', which I think may help put some regular forum discussions in slightly more of a context.  Also, it's good because I know from my own experience that making and publishing videos can be a fantastic learning aid - admittedly one that can be frustrating and deflating at times, but ultimately worthwhile.

One other thought, made somewhat with Juker's comment in mind, was that at least three of the StP videos that I particularly enjoyed were made by 'beginners'.  I guess that music (and video) doesn't always (ever?) rely on technical wizzardry alone and I think that the TOTM results proved that quite well.    

Title: Re: TOTM Project Evaluation
Post by: Ziachmusi/Louise on November 09, 2009, 07:51:25 AM
As a beginner I'd like to thank Mel net for all the input and support. TOTM has been brill and I'm sure it will continue to be so.
It's so helpful to have a variety of samples of the same tune, to see the different approaches and different boxes. For me it's been a great focus-er, I tended to try and learn any thing I heard and liked with the effect that I've got lots of tunes on the go and can't play any of them. Getting focused on one tune for a whole month has been great and made me realise how important it is to stick at one tune until you get it right.
My playing is still very basic and making a video and broadcasting myself was awful but I managed to do it(thanks to all the other beginner videos, they're a real encouragement).
LIDL is a great choice. I didn't vote for it as I assumed it was far to difficult for me, I'd never tried anything on the C row and never used all the bass buttons in one tune so it's a great challenge and I hope to get a recognisable video version done by the end of the month. Still got 21 days to practice ;D

 :|||:Louise :|||:
Title: Re: TOTM Project Evaluation
Post by: Sebastian on November 09, 2009, 08:53:23 AM
I hope to get a recognisable video version done by the end of the month. Still got 21 days to practice ;D
I'm looking forward to watch/hear it.  :||: :|||: (:)
Title: Re: TOTM Project Evaluation
Post by: Bananayogi on November 09, 2009, 09:03:18 AM
I love TOTM. It has given me a lot to work on, think about and practice.

One thing that I do appreciate is the various alternative suggestions given for the fingering and bass side of the tune. As with many people (I suspect), I am a bit slapdash in exploring different ways of playing a tune and can be guilty of just bashing it out! ToTM is going a long way towards curing that.

I am trying to avoid watching too many of the early submissions as I learn the tune, so at least I know what I am supposed to be doing before watching people who have already sorted it. Less scary that way!

I also like the fact that we have had two very different tunes so far, and hope that the voters of this parish choose something different again next time.
Title: Re: TOTM Project Evaluation
Post by: Mike Higgins on November 09, 2009, 01:33:46 PM
Quote
I'm slightly surprised that I've only seen one example of a B/C/C# in TOTM, considering the amount of discussion there is about them.

I have no means of making a reasonable recording and so have not yet added a tune. 
Title: Re: TOTM Project Evaluation
Post by: graememackay on November 09, 2009, 02:00:38 PM
Quote
I'm slightly surprised that I've only seen one example of a B/C/C# in TOTM, considering the amount of discussion there is about them.

I have no means of making a reasonable recording and so have not yet added a tune. 

You've got a great phone for recording video, use it
Title: Re: TOTM Project Evaluation
Post by: ladydetemps on November 09, 2009, 03:57:51 PM
I'm going to be intrested to hear the nominations for May...as so many tunes/songs seem to feature that month.  ;)

Title: Re: TOTM Project Evaluation
Post by: graememackay on November 09, 2009, 04:02:49 PM
I'm going to be intrested to hear the nominations for May...as so many tunes/songs seem to feature that month.  ;)



Nothing quite like advanced thinking!  No reason why you can't nominate a May tune for December
Title: Re: TOTM Project Evaluation
Post by: Mike Higgins on November 09, 2009, 06:05:05 PM
Quote
I'm slightly surprised that I've only seen one example of a B/C/C# in TOTM, considering the amount of discussion there is about them.

I have no means of making a reasonable recording and so have not yet added a tune.

You've got a great phone for recording video, use it

Yes sir!! ;D ;D ;D ;D
Title: Re: TOTM Project Evaluation
Post by: Chris Ryall on November 09, 2009, 10:32:07 PM
I'm going to be intrested to hear the nominations for May...as so many tunes/songs seem to feature that month.  ;)

Indeed. Fabulous month. I once ran an entire (May) evening at my university folk club "songs mentioning May only" -- they all managed something. I met my wife on May day. My first daughter is called Dolly May, because she was born in February.
Title: Re: TOTM Project Evaluation
Post by: Gandy on November 10, 2009, 08:28:29 AM
Quote
I'm slightly surprised that I've only seen one example of a B/C/C# in TOTM, considering the amount of discussion there is about them.

You wouldn't thank me for posting my attempt, although its a good tune for me to use while learning the system.
Title: Re: TOTM Project Evaluation
Post by: Lester on November 10, 2009, 08:37:05 AM
Quote
I'm slightly surprised that I've only seen one example of a B/C/C# in TOTM, considering the amount of discussion there is about them.

You wouldn't thank me for posting my attempt

Oh! yes we would
Title: Re: TOTM Project Evaluation
Post by: SteveC on November 10, 2009, 01:33:25 PM

Indeed. Fabulous month. I once ran an entire (May) evening at my university folk club "songs mentioning May only" -- they all managed something. I met my wife on May day. My first daughter is called Dolly May, because she was born in February.
[/quote]

...because she was born in February. Priceless. Thank you for cheering up a dull day.
Title: Re: TOTM Project Evaluation
Post by: FREED on November 11, 2009, 04:43:00 PM
I have to say the entries for Oct and now Nov have been fantastic. I have learned so much and had a great time watching things develop. Problem is that I only have a month to put something together I still don't have a decent version of STP. I need six months...
Ken
Title: Re: TOTM Project Evaluation
Post by: Ellie on November 11, 2009, 04:45:35 PM
So, Speed the Plough revisited in March then?  ;D
Title: Re: TOTM Project Evaluation
Post by: FREED on November 11, 2009, 04:50:27 PM
Ellie, that was spooky - I was just watching your L'Inconnu - really nice. Thanks.
Ken
Title: Re: TOTM Project Evaluation
Post by: Pete Dunk on November 11, 2009, 05:52:03 PM
Problem is that I only have a month to put something together I still don't have a decent version of STP. I need six months...

You and me both Ken. Mind you I only started on it in the last week of October, spurred on by all the fine contributions I watched and listened to. The basses are doing my head in and I'm developing a nasty ache in my left shoulder but we'll get there in the end, See you in March mate!  8)

Pete.
Title: Re: TOTM Project Evaluation
Post by: **DTN** on November 11, 2009, 09:38:38 PM
Problem is that I only have a month to put something together I still don't have a decent version of STP. I need six months...

 The basses are doing my head in and I'm developing a nasty ache in my left shoulder but we'll get there in the end,
Pete.

I know it probably doesn't seem like it at the moment! ... it does all become second nature at some stage and your Bass playing simply becomes an automatic process! .. when i play on my own (i.e not co-ordinating with other musician chords) my bass playing is just freelance and instinctive and made up as i go along so i can ornament the tunes differently as they progress.
A good example of variation between tunes was my http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bb_nxCThNtA (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bb_nxCThNtA) 
I'm often to commented that i must have being playing melodeon since i was a kid! .... I actually took it up age 34 with no previous musical skill!!

It is mostly hard work , Practise , playing with other players , and more practise .  Sooooo keep it up! ... you will never stop getting better! .. its like riding a bike! ... Good Luck!

 :||: :||:Derek :||: :||:
Title: Re: TOTM Project Evaluation
Post by: FREED on November 11, 2009, 10:27:36 PM
Ah someone mentioned basses .. did I say six months ?   Thanks for the encouragement guys and fantastic stuff Derek.
Ken
Title: Re: TOTM Project Evaluation
Post by: Johnjo on November 14, 2009, 02:38:38 PM
Just wanted to say that I think that TOTM is brilliant, but is only 1 tune a month enough?

Or have I just got too much free time on my hands?

Yes...that's probably it.
Title: Re: TOTM Project Evaluation
Post by: Bananayogi on November 14, 2009, 08:20:47 PM
Just wanted to say that I think that TOTM is brilliant, but is only 1 tune a month enough?

Or have I just got too much free time on my hands?

Yes...that's probably it.


Yes, I think one tune a month is enough. I think the STP month showed how people evolved the tune and their way of playing rather than just learning the dots. (Although 'just' learning the dots is hard enough for some of us!)

Two weeks wouldn't be enough for me (especially with a more complex tune like LIDL that I had never knowingly heard before) to make a decent stab at it.
Title: Re: TOTM Project Evaluation
Post by: NeilA on November 14, 2009, 10:51:42 PM
IMO one tune is enough. I'm thinking about how I'm going to fit in December's choices. Anyone know any really simple carols!!?
Title: Re: TOTM Project Evaluation
Post by: GbH on November 14, 2009, 11:18:05 PM
Just wanted to say that I think that TOTM is brilliant, but is only 1 tune a month enough?

Or have I just got too much free time on my hands?

Yes...that's probably it.


I think that one-per-month is fine, too.  However, there's obviously nothing preventing you from doing multiple versions, or indeed, from just recording and publishing as much other stuff as you can.  Some of us have been uploading and linking to videos for a while and I don't see why TOTM needs to stop that.  In fact, it's clear that TOTM has encouraged video creation from people who've previously not got involved in it, so it would be great to see those people start to make non-TOTM videos too.
Title: Re: TOTM Project Evaluation
Post by: SteveC on November 15, 2009, 09:35:50 AM
I think one tune a month is enough and can give something for everyone. For beginners, like me, it provides inspiration and a target. (If I crack that one bar that's throwing me in the B part and put in several more hours of practice I might have a slow version ready for the end of the month).

For more experienced players it offers the opportunity to try differnt versions I I love DtNs second offering and the wind blown melodeon was a masterpiece.

I am loving watching all the different interpretations and log on almost daily to see what's been added.
Title: Re: TOTM Project Evaluation
Post by: juker on November 15, 2009, 09:54:23 AM
One tune a month is certainly enough for me to tackle! The good thing is that in a year I should have at least 12 good tunes ;D Excellent! I also enjoy checking in every day to see what new interpretations are posted, and the ongoing travails of Ernest need to be followed. It is all great stuff and I love it!
Title: Re: TOTM Project Evaluation
Post by: Keithypete. on November 19, 2009, 09:55:37 AM
TOTM is a good thing. My IT skills are very poor, my video camera non-existent and my free-time limited which is why I'm not posting a video of my box & head-less torso this month. I love the chosen tune for november and learnt the basic tune fairly quickly so I'm getting a lot out of it but I can't really contribute this month. All the versions I have seen posted are excellent for effort, content -interpretation etc. But I have personally had enough of it now. I shall 'rest' this tune for a little while or I will end up loathing it. This is probably just me, but it's begining to jar a little when I hear it now. I'm really glad my suggestion didn't get picked as I really love the tune and it may well have spoiled it for me. I wonder how Al is getting on with his tune-a-day?
Title: Re: TOTM Project Evaluation
Post by: HallelujahAl on November 19, 2009, 02:48:31 PM
 
Quote
wonder how Al is getting on with his tune-a-day?

Fine thanks! Yesterday I played 'Yesterday' by the Beatless, very busy today - good job I got a ticket to ride! Just started blowin' a moothie as well - here's a small extract of my progress so far.
Al learnin' moothie! (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bfqI-VI_iEs)

 ;D
Title: Re: TOTM Project Evaluation
Post by: Bryson on November 19, 2009, 05:53:51 PM
I think totm is and will continue to be a major source of inspiration for my playing.

I told my younger sister about it in October. She went off to watch the videos. Next news she was emailing me to say that she wanted to learn the melodeon!
So she now has my super old (about 30 years!! yaiks!!) Pokerwork - fettled with good bass pads and felt under the treble side.
I also gave her a copy of Mally's "Absolute Beginner" book and I'm now treated to Jingle Bells and Baa Baa Black Sheep when I go round :)
If totm can inspire someone to take this enigmatic instrument then it must be good!
Title: Re: TOTM Project Evaluation
Post by: theSmoiler on November 19, 2009, 10:02:38 PM
TOTM is a good thing. My IT skills are very poor, my video camera non-existent and my free-time limited which is why I'm not posting a video of my box & head-less torso this month. I love the chosen tune for november and learnt the basic tune fairly quickly so I'm getting a lot out of it but I can't really contribute this month. All the versions I have seen posted are excellent for effort, content -interpretation etc. But I have personally had enough of it now. I shall 'rest' this tune for a little while or I will end up loathing it. This is probably just me, but it's begining to jar a little when I hear it now.

I agree it's been a good thing, and I've learnt alot from TOTM so far (not least, that I could do with a small box with a stop on the bass to take the thirds out of the chords - aaagh, MAD threatening! :o) - eg challenging some of my own laziness over use of different basses, forcing me out of my comfort zone this month, and making me evaluate the qualities of particular boxes. My IT skills are also pretty basic - but, I've learned things from this project. Previously I found YouTube quite bewildering and very difficult to methodically find anything of any use to me - but I've learnt a lot in this respect since beginning of October, such that it has become a much more useful resource to me, and the local library has furnished me with a couple of 'YouTube for Dummies' books so I can go on and make it work even better for me. [continuing below as can no longer see what I'm typing - does anyone else have this problem?]
Title: Re: TOTM Project Evaluation
Post by: theSmoiler on November 19, 2009, 10:12:51 PM
I've also been forced to explore my camera much further than just basic 'point and shoot' - and I 'm sure that what I've learnt will be of considerable use in future. These are all valuable spin-offs from the project IMO.

But, I also agree this month with Keithypete's comments above. In the end I was just glad to get my video done and 'put the tune to bed' for a bit. I don't think I would have been able to do much else with it in another 2 weeks (but...give me a 'week off'....then, maybe :|||:) - unlike StP, which I've now come to like ;) (even played it as a melodeon duet with Tony Weatherall in the pub on Saturday)and which I feel would just keep evolving. However, I've enjoyed all the versions so far, and would like to be able to play LIDL in the different metres I've heard from some participants - but I just can't seem to get the way I've heard it played pre-TOTM out of my head. (will finish now, before page keeps jumping about again!)

Diane
Title: Re: TOTM Project Evaluation
Post by: juker on November 20, 2009, 09:09:46 AM
Quote
wonder how Al is getting on with his tune-a-day?

Fine thanks! Yesterday I played 'Yesterday' by the Beatless, very busy today - good job I got a ticket to ride! Just started blowin' a moothie as well - here's a small extract of my progress so far.
Al learnin' moothie! (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bfqI-VI_iEs)

 ;D
Fantastic, heart wrenching pictures - very atmospheric accompaniment  (:)
Title: Re: TOTM Project Evaluation
Post by: HallelujahAl on November 20, 2009, 09:52:29 AM
Quote
Fantastic, heart wrenching pictures - very atmospheric accompaniment

Thanks - the harmonica was the most common instrument in the trenches of course - on both sides of the line.
AL
Title: Re: TOTM Project Evaluation
Post by: Sandy on November 20, 2009, 10:28:47 AM
Quote
Fantastic, heart wrenching pictures - very atmospheric accompaniment

Thanks - the harmonica was the most common instrument in the trenches of course - on both sides of the line.
AL

That was very atmospheric. Just out of interest Al, and sorry for thread drift, but you might be interested in this. My grandfather used to keep the troops entertained during WWII with mouthorgan playing and dirty jokes. (He always carried it with him)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P4Go7PBRhOA

Cheers

Sandy
 (:)
Title: Re: TOTM Project Evaluation
Post by: NeilA on November 20, 2009, 10:08:00 PM
Quote
Fantastic, heart wrenching pictures - very atmospheric accompaniment

Thanks - the harmonica was the most common instrument in the trenches of course - on both sides of the line.
AL

That was very atmospheric. Just out of interest Al, and sorry for thread drift, but you might be interested in this. My grandfather used to keep the troops entertained during WWII with mouthorgan playing and dirty jokes. (He always carried it with him)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P4Go7PBRhOA

Cheers

Sandy
 (:)

Fantastic playing!

I'm glad I took up the DBA as I couldn't even aspire to this!! Having tried the moothie, I'm glad it didn't prejudice me against push/pull/suck/blaw instruments.
Title: Re: TOTM Project Evaluation
Post by: willriding on December 07, 2009, 10:11:30 PM
As a newcomer to the forum I find this thread in particular very inspiring, what a great idea! It's also nice to find a forum so active too...long may it continue.I'm working on the last two bars of the melody on A section of PR, when I tried to play it by ear a few notes got in the wrong order and I'm trying to unring that particular bell of a bad habit! I'll try the basses too and hopefully post something afore the New year..
cheers
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