I'm known among senior communities as 'the guy who talks about his grandfather'. I didn't market myself this way-it just happened. Overtime, as my confidence grew, I began to share my music roots and why I'm happy to be with the residents and how my grandfather's guitar changed my life. When I shared my 'why' with the residents, the show became more than the music and started transforming into something else. In between songs, I'd say something like, "...Pop pop told me if you have a song you love you need to share it with others, they will feel the love even if they don't know the song.." Then I'd start playing 'Yesterday' or 'What a wonderful world'. The show was becoming more like an 'experience' as I shared the stories and reasons behind the songs I play. Music became almost secondary. As if one were admiring the intricately designed framing before ever noticing the beautiful painting. As I grew as a performer, so did my recollections of being with my grandfather and his lessons. I'd sit at the kitchen table and practice a song and Pop pop would say, "..you're playing too damn fast. Imagine you are eating a piece of you're grandmother's cheesecake..the goal isn't to eat as fast as you can-savor every bite and make it last." Every time I play a song on the guitar I think of that. Mmmmm cheesecake! I think this is why my show is different than others. Why did you begin playing music? How does this shape the life you live? These are a few good questions to answer and share with residents at your next show. They want to know you, not just listen to your music. The more you share about yourself and the love you have for your music, the more you will connect with your senior communities. What do you want to be known for?

Howdy, Team. I am getting so close now to reaching out to activity directors, that i'm getting a bit nervous. With Aaron Turner's as a model, I'm putting together a one page web splash with bio, contact info, and performance demos. my question: should I make phone contact first (including leaving a voicemail), or send an intro email w/ web link first, and follow that up with a phone call... perhaps it depends—but I'll take any perspective ya might offer.... thanks any case. - Jim

I did a show yesterday at the nursing home that I did my very first show back in July. Since then I’ve done 15 shows and I’ve just been thinking about how blessed we are to be able to do something that we enjoy so much and even get paid for it. I enjoy the contributions in this performer circle. Thank you all

Thanks everyone for another successful call! Special thank you to Judy Maggs for sharing your story and perspectives and insights. SUPER excited for your future in this business!! Every one of us is at a different point of our musical journey. Let's continue inspiring one another and keep shining love and light on seniors!❤️

Who’s joining me on the livestream THIS Tuesday? This will be open to all members to converse and connect. I’m excited to have a guest on this call who recently started playing music for senior communities. Looking forward to seeing you there!