Music Authority Family Newsletter Takeover

2/12/2019

Music Authority Family Newsletter - January 29, 2019

It's a Music Authority Family Takeover while Melissa's in California!

How Long Will It Take?
A Guest Article by Natalie Fleckenstein

“How long will it take to learn how to play?”
A perfectly reasonable and frequently asked question when registering for lessons at Music Authority. This is not to criticize anyone who has ever asked this open ended and incomplete question - but it does require some background information in order to give any resemblance of a quantifiable answer.

First, let’s complete the question: “How long will it take to learn how to play...a note, chord, riff, a song, adequately, proficiently, professionally?” The list goes on. Let’s break it down a little more.

What is your goal in wanting to take lessons?
One of the best answers I ever rescued to this: “My wife and I are having a baby soon and I want to be able to play lullabies.” Precise and relatively quantifiable given the end goal but still not easily determined. But, truth be told, there are no imperfect answers to this question. Some students take lessons because they simply enjoy music and want to learn more about the process, some wish to hone the skills they learned in their youth. Some want to be rock stars or concert pianist while others don’t fit into other extra-curricular molds and just know they like the way guitars look and sound. Each reason comes with a different level of dedication and once again, cannot be quantified. But, a desire to learn, to expand your knowledge and add “musician” to your repertoire is an awesome goal and is to be applauded on any terms.

How much time are you willing to practice?
A questions that begs to be answered in an exact number. Most Instructors at Music Authority will ask you to practice a minimum of your age in minutes per day. If you Google “how long will it take me to learn how to play an instrument?” You will find a slew of answers. The range is 30 minutes to 3-4 hours per day depending on your dedication, willingness and aptitude for learning (we will get to this later). In his book, “Outliers: The Story of Success”, author Malcolm Gladwell mentions a study that dares to put out a more specific time frame stating it takes “10,000 hours, or roughly ten years, to become a genius at something.” This is based on the fact that “every great composer practiced for at least 10 years before they wrote their master work.” Even the most honest and realistic responses to this question will not earn you a guaranteed deadline answer. Even Google agrees!

How good are you at learning a new skill or task?
This question is VERY relative but an important one for the staff and instructors at Music Authority. Each skill or task is as unique as the student willing to take it on. How do you learn? Are you a visual learner? Do you do better in a traditional structured learning environment? What is your taste in music, rock, country, show tunes? From young children to adults - when you become a student, you learn at your own pace, in your own way based on your desire to achieve your goal. Some students take to their instrument from the first lesson, practice minimally and become amazing musicians while others struggle to get through each of their first lessons, practicing endlessly before they catch on or find their groove. Not giving up is the key here and giving it at least three months before any decisions or instrument changes are made is a good time frame. Making your lessons work for you is Music Authority’s goal. Struggling doesn’t mean you’re unable to learn, it just means we need to figure out what’s not working and fix it to the best of our ability and with your help. Maybe it’s the instrument, maybe it’s the wrong size. Could it be your lesson time? Maybe it’s too late or too early or the wrong day. Maybe you do better under pressure and you need a performance date locked down.

Even with all the information gathered experts still cannot give you an exact quantifiable estimate as to “how long” it will take. But the professionals at Music Authority are here to provide a personal experience to get you closer to an answer. We do our best to make sure you have the correct instrument. Each instructor gives you personal feedback on a lesson-to-lesson basis and advice to help you get closer to achieving your goal. Once you get comfortable in your lesson, we want to know how your classes going? Are you and your instructor clicking? Not feeling your first instrument choice? How about trying another instrument? Your instructor says you’re ready to try preforming, how about a recital, show or maybe one of our ensemble bands? What do you think about Rock Camp? This is part of the personal experience that you get at Music Authority that can help us get a little closer to answering your question. How long will it take for you to learn to play? The best answer may be, “as long as it takes.”

Natalie Fleckenstein, Lessons Administrator

#MusicAuthorityFamily
#beyondthemusic

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What Eclipse Means to Dominic Perez by Tina Perez

My son Dominic is a drummer at Music Authority. He first took piano lessons at Music Authority back in 2013, then guitar, and then finally drums.

Since starting in Unveiled in January 2016, Dominic’s goal was to one day play drums in Eclipse. That opportunity came sooner than we all expected last July. Dominic jumped in and learned 30 songs in about two weeks!

Dominic loves being in Eclipse. He was ready for the challenge, and it has made him a much better musician. He loves the opportunity to play more gigs, to write and perform original music, to meet other bands, and to get great experience seeing how things work in the music industry. It really has been a dream come true!

Jackson Warren's Favorite Piece of Gear

My favorite piece of gear is the loop pedal. The loop pedal is a pedal that records what you play and loops it over and over again. It can be used with a variety of instruments. The loop pedal can help any student practice soloing and playing along to chords or a melody. The loop pedal also gives you the ability to stack different parts of a song making an excellent tool for writing music. The loop pedal gives one person the ability to play as thousands of people making it my favorite piece of gear.

Jackson Warren is a sales employee and multi instrumentalist in our showcase band, Eclipse, Guitar Ensemble, and Tribute. He is a Lambert High School student hoping for a job in the music field. He has been playing music since he was in second grade.

Teaching Music with Shae Humphrey

Teaching music is an incredibly intense occupation, if done correctly. Our students develop technical skills and devour information with such hunger. We, as educators, have the overwhelming and exciting job of keeping students engaged by introducing them to a broad spectrum of interests. But, each student is wildly diverse. Whether it is in age, circumstances, or motivations for being a part of Music Authority.
This is what I believe makes being a teacher so fulfilling. We are able to interact and understand the student on a level that many other activities are not able to provide. We are teaching our students life and personal skills. Music teaches them patience, responsibility, how to interact with others and to feel comfortable within themselves.
“That’s what is important:
we can help make both pupils enjoy their own success at their level and,
along the way, we can try to teach them not to make the destructive (and meaningless) comparisons that can spoil it all.”

Gareth Dylan Smith (2014)

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The video of the week has been taken over by Savannah Hughes, guitarist from Music Authority's Eclipse. Savannah's favorite performance with her band from 2018 was Mr. Brightside on New Year's Eve.

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January 22, 2019

2/1/2019

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Music Authority Family Newsletter - January 22, 2019

The Importance of a Network, Dawn Blair's Favorite Performance, and the NAMM Show

The Importance of a Network

This week is Winter NAMM, the week of the winter trade show for Music Retailers. I'll be making my third appearance at NAMM University, talking about the Music Authority educational programs and student retention. (The first two appearances were in Nashville. This is my first trip to California and I have to admit, I'm a bit nervous.)

Throughout my time in the industry, I heard a lot about the importance of the NAMM network. If you have enough friends and colleagues, someone can help you with just about anything. I never tested that theory until this summer.

When difficult times hit, and I needed an understanding ear who'd been there before, out came the NAMM contacts. I reached out, found other store owners who'd gone through what I was experiencing, and formed a support system. (I also got a healthy dose of humor when, after telling my very dramatic story, a good friend laughed and said, "that's happened to me twice!" So much for me being unique.)

This is a time to recharge my retail batteries, hear ideas from around the world, see new products, and share a piece of myself. It's humbling when you think you're going through the toughest experience in your professional career and someone walks up to you to say, "Thank you for your presentation. We're really struggling and you've given us hope."

Music Authority isn't all about me. It's not even my story I'm going to present. It's the story of every student, teacher, staff member, and parent who has walked through our door. It's the story of the network of Music Authority - a network that stretches across the country and around the globe.

Be a part of our journey this week. Follow me on Music Authority's Facebook and Instagram, see what I'm up to as I tell your story. NAMM is so much more than just products. It's sharing, building a network, laying a foundation for better things.

Like so much more in the Music Authority world, this week is about the network beyond the music.

- Melissa A. Loggins, Owner
#MusicAuthorityFamily
#beyondthemusic

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Dawn Blair's Favorite Musical Memory

I have a "special" music memory that includes my father-in-law Sid Blair. He was an educator and a renown tenor sax/clarinet player from the Detroit area who played in the Detroit Symphony and with people like Glenn Miller, Tex Beneke and Artie Shaw and many others.

My father-in-law was to be the head-liner for a jazz concert in Daytona Beach. This was going to be his last live performance before retiring his horns; my husband and I were working this concert with him.

During this sold out performance, with press present, Sid pulled a "quickie" and had the rest of band take a break while he had me, my husband and himself play an unrehearsed song on the spot for the audience. Suddenly we became the 3 Blairs. (no pun intended. Ha.)

It was a spontaneous musical moment, but jazz is about spontaneity. It was memorable in that he created an awesome musical moment between 3 family members in a way I never, ever forgot. Sid is now 92 years old and he still remains one of my favorite and most respected musicians of all time.

ESP Guitars

ESP Guitars have been part of the Music Authority Family almost the entire time we've been open. We'll be looking at gear to stock while we're in California - what would you like to see on the walls? Message us with the models and colors you're excited to try out!

Add an ESP guitar to your collection by stopping in to try one out at Music Authority today!

Off to California!

Melissa will be representing the Music Authority Family by speaking at the NAMM Show this week. Check out our social media starting Wednesday for updates from Anaheim!

Before she hops on a plane home, she'll be stopping by the Taylor Factory in Tecate, Mexico. Follow her adventures on Music Authority's Facebook and Instagram!

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Every once in a while we like to look back and remember concerts of years gone by. This show, from March 12, 2014, has a very familiar current student playing guitar. Can anyone recognize the student playing the white guitar? (Stage kick!)

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January 15th, 2019

1/15/2019

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Music Authority Family Newsletter - January 15, 2019

Raw Peanuts, What Eclipse Means to Sashu Machani, and Please Tune Your Instrument

Raw Peanuts

Today I'm going to share a story with you. I'm a Berry College graduate and this is the legend of Martha Berry and Henry Ford.

Henry Ford was asked frequently for donations to every cause imaginable. One day, he meets Martha Berry (at the time Berry Schools were a school for poor mountain children). She asks him for a donation to help her children. Frustrated and probably feeling like everyone in the world wants something from him, Henry Ford reaches into his pocket and hands her a coin from his pocket.

Ms. Berry takes that coin, buys a bag of raw peanuts (or corn seed, depending on who is telling the story), has her students plant and harvest it, and then uses the proceeds to purchase a piano on which she could teach music. She then writes a letter of thank you to Henry Ford for the beautiful piano.

Intrigued, he comes to Georgia to see what she's doing. They become friends and he becomes one of Berry's largest donors.

What does Martha Berry, Henry Ford, and peanuts have to do with Music Authority? Sowing seeds. Some students come to us excited to learn, ready to pick up their instrument and shine. Others are afraid, have had bad experiences, or would rather be playing baseball. And still others come to us because parents don't know where else to go or what to do; they come to us because a psychologist has suggested music might help other behavioral or developmental issues.

With all of these students, our teachers are sowing seeds. Seeds of self-esteem, courage, confidence, responsibility, and hope. We might not see the seeds grow. Our job is to leave the seeds in the ground. Sometimes, someone else farther down the road will till the ground, pull the weeds, and see the plants bloom.

The seeds we sow are more than music. The seeds our teachers sow are the seeds to a fuller life, a more relaxed life, deeper friendships, better understanding of math, creativity, and thinking outside of the box.

Henry Ford's peanut seeds were only the vehicle, not the destination. Let music be your vehicle. See how far you can go beyond the music.

- Melissa A. Loggins, Owner
#MusicAuthorityFamily
#beyondthemusic

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Sashu Machani - What does being in Eclipse mean to you?

Eclipse has given me so much in the last 2 years, I’ve met some of my closest friends and learned what it’s like to do music in the real world. Every time I do a show or assignment for Music Authority, I obtain new skills that I can use not only in music but in my daily life.
(Photo from Sashu's trip to Nashville, 6/29/18 with Chris Mitchell of CMG guitars and songwriter Kent Blazy)

Importance of a "real" tuner

While it isn't necessary for everyone to own a pedal tuner (unless you're playing live, then it is absolutely a necessity), students do need a "real" tuner for their guitar. Phone app tuners are easy to download; but they are impractical in the long run. A tuner that reads by vibration is the best option for most students, at and $20, they're an affordable investment in your musical education.

Available at Music Authority.

Drum tuning 101

You picked up a deal of a drum set online at Christmas, put it together under the Christmas Tree, but now it doesn't sound quite right. Maybe it's because your drums aren't tuned properly. What, you say, drums need to be tuned?

Yes. While drum sets don't usually hold a specific pitch, they must be tuned correctly in reference to the other drums in the set and to remove unwanted overtones. If your heads are too loose, they will sound "floppy." If your smaller toms are tuned "looser" than your floor tom, your fills won't sound correct.

Music Authority's Repair Disco tunes drums. If you're not sure yours are right, give us a call today at 770-886-9066.

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The Music Authority Teacher Band having some fun at Gone on November 9, 2018 with (left to right) Andrew Loggins, Melissa Loggins, Michael Stewart, Jake Lanni, and AJ Hirsch. Hammer to Fall (Queen)

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January 11th, 2019

1/11/2019

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Music Authority Family Newsletter - January 8, 2019

It's a new year! Let's work together to start fresh and keep those New Year's Musical Resolutions!

Staying on Track

New Years is a week past. How many of you have already fallen off the Resolution Wagon? It's okay, we won't tell anyone.

What we don't want is for your student to fall off the musical wagon, so this newsletter is dedicated to tips and tools for staying focused and making the most of your music lessons. Here are a few of our top tips:

1. Create a Schedule - Set aside a specific time of day for your student to practice. Write down the time on an agreement and have your student sign the agreement. Being consistent in practice time is important. I get up every morning at 6 and write for two hours before work. At first, it took me a while to get in the groove. Today, my brain understands "it's writing time" because I'm consistently doing it at the same time of day. Start that practice schedule and stick to it - results will follow!

2. Find a Carrot - Make a deal. Practice consistently, pass a level, perform in the Spring Show. At the end of a pre-determined time, earn the reward. Maybe it's a new guitar or effects pedal. Use the momentum to set a new goal.

3. Be Realistic - How much time is reasonable for your student to practice at home? Twice their age in minutes daily, and it should be divided into two shift. A ten year old should practice ten minutes twice daily. It doesn't sound like a lot, but we live in a world ruled by short time increments. We don't even ride the elevator without checking our texts today.

4. Perform! Students who perform are more likely to stay in lessons. Retention rates for students who perform jump from 3 months to several years. Performance reinforces lessons learned and shows students why we learn musical language. A baseball player would be bored if he only practiced and never played a game. The same is true for music students.

5. Try it Out Yourself. Try a lesson. You're already waiting around Music Authority while your student is learning, so learn some yourself. Even if it's only one lesson, it will help you understand what your child is doing weekly. We're teaching the language of music to your student, learn a little bit of the language yourself. It will help you understand why they're frustrated and will help you to get them on the right page.

- Melissa A. Loggins, Owner
#MusicAuthorityFamily
#beyondthemusic

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The Spring Show Has Begun!

Do you hear that noise around Music Authority? It's Spring Show rehearsals, underway this week. Take a listen and plan ahead to attend the show on March 22. The Spring and Fall Shows are open to all Music Authority students.

Taylor Guitars - Builder's Edition - 614ce

Introducing Builder's Edition, designed to help guitarists play and sound their very best. Taylor master guitar designer Andy Powers has crafted a next-generation Taylor guitar that sets an inspiring new standard of playing comfort and sound.
Available at Music Authority.

How's Your Guitar Playing?

Guitars need love like any other piece of equipment. Just a like a car needs an oil change to keep functioning at it's best, guitar strings need to be changed every 6-8 weeks and a set up should be done every 6-8 months. A set up adjusts the neck, eliminating any warping due to humidity or heat, checks your intonation (if you're playing in tune), and polishes your fret board. Estimates are free, drop yours off for the Music Authority Repair Disco to check out today!

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Music Authority's Eclipse playing "Bittersweet," one of their original songs, on New Years Eve 2018. The show was a huge success drawing a record crowd throughout the night. Thank you to everyone who came out to help party away 2018!

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January 08th, 2019

1/8/2019

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Music Authority Family Newsletter - January 1, 2019

Happy New Year from Music Authority!

Starting Strong

New Year's Resolutions. What's yours? Eat healthier? Exercise? Pay off a credit card?

How about a musical resolution? Spend six months learning how to play guitar?

The important part is to set a goal. Without a goal, you'll be wandering. A goal will give you purpose and a destination.

What kind of goals can you have in music? We frequently hear from parents, I wish I would have learned to play (insert instrument) as a child. Sign up for lessons! Set the goal of performing in a recital or learning a specific song. (Did you know there are neurological benefits for adults who take music lessons?)

Maybe you've always wanted to be in a band. Sign up for one of Music Authority's performance opportunities! We have a lot of adults to take lessons and participate in our performance programs. You won't be alone!

How would you like to perform on stage with your child? Envision yourself doing a duet. (Many years ago, instructor Jake Lanni's dad surprised him by jumping up on stage to sing "Total Eclipse of the Heart" during a Music Authority spring show. It was a fun experience for the audience and a memory the two of them will have for a lifetime.)

Try something different this year - instead of making a resolution on eating, exercise, and finance, make a creative resolution. Step outside of your comfort zone and engage a part of your brain most adults don't have an opportunity to use regularly. We tend to get bogged down in the "real world" of paying bills, managing budgets, cleaning gutters on our house, raising children.

Instead, be creative. Play guitar. Sing. Remind your brain what it feels like to relax. Start 2019 strong, make a commitment to yourself!

- Melissa A. Loggins, Owner
#beyondthemusic
#MusicAuthorityFamily

Click Here to Log In to Your Lessons Account

Instructor Jeff Gray

"The coolest gig I ever played was opening for Adele at the Greek Theater. Gordon Ramsey and Phil Michelson were there with lots of other celebrities. It was a truly magical experience!"

Jeff teaches bass (electric and upright) on Wednesdays and Saturdays and is the instructor for Music Authority's Revolution at Music Authority.

GEORGIA MADE

Did you know you can buy a guitar made in Georgia? CMG Guitars come out of Statesboro and are sold at Music Authority. This model, the Ashlee , is named for the maker's wife and is their first model.

Come by today and try out a CMG to see what kind of craftsmanship Georgia guitar makers have to offer!

SIGN UP NOW FOR SUMMER CAMP!

Rock Camp (2 Sessions)
Rock Camp, Jr.
Broadway Camp

Music Authority's summer camps always fill up. Sign up today to ensure your student's spot in the experience of the summer! Call 770-886-9066 for more information.

Not in Lessons at Music Authority? Sign Up Here!

The girls from Music Authority's Rock Ensembles performing with Radio 80's at Guston's in Woodstock on December 15, 2018. Audrey Gilley, Morgan Schlapfer, Kennedy Cathcart, Rayna Britto, Sashu Machani, and Savannah Hughes

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January 06th, 2019

1/6/2019

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Music Authority Family Newsletter - December 25, 2018

Merry Christmas from the Music Authority Family

Make a Difference

Service to our community has always been a fundamental foundation for Music Authority. It is something that we try to pass along to our students through both actions and through giving.

Many years ago, through the Any Soldier project, we became acquainted with a chaplain stationed on a a ship in the Persian Gulf. We helped him to provide a special breakfast with ornaments, pancakes, syrup, and other "outside the every day" items for everyone on his ship. It was quite the undertaking, but still is something I think about every Christmas morning.

With the help of the Music Authority Roadies (our PTO), this year we've accomplished a lot. We ran a 5k for CASA of Forsyth County. We supported Music4CHIEF, a non-profit that provides musical mentorship for at risk teens. We sent over 70 boxes through the Any Soldier program, cleaned barns at Barefoot Ranch, collected Easter Eggs for Meals By Grace and Children's Healthcare of Atlanta. We collected gifts for Holiday House at The Place and raised money for Alzheimer's research with The Alzheimer's Association.

Within our own four walls, we made a difference in the lives of aspiring musicians, young and not so young. We encouraged parents to step out of their comfort zone and up onto the stage. We helped young musicians find passion - and that there is a place for you even if you don't excel at sports or in school.

What we do, all of us collectively - owners, staff members, parents, students, teachers, Roadies - is beyond the music. Yes, we learn songs and notation. But we learn basics of life - how to get along with each other, how to be positive, how to give back, fundamental courage and self-esteem, how to help those less fortunate, how to make a difference in the world around us.

We hope that we've had a positive impact on your world this year. We hope that we've instilled some of these ideas, or at least the seeds of these ideas, in your student. We'd also like to encourage you to do something in 2019 outside of your comfort zone. Volunteer with your child at an animal shelter or soup kitchen. Play a song with your child on stage. Step beyond the fear. Look beyond the music.

We're grateful for each and every one of you. We're grateful for the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of our students and life of our community. Thank you for being on this ride with us.

We are, and always will be #musicauthorityfamily. I am reminded of this every time a former student returns to see us after a long absence. We are still family. But in 2019, I'd like to encourage all of us to remember that what we do is also #beyondthemusic.

- Melissa A. Loggins, Owner
#MusicAuthorityFamily

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The Adventures of Sparkles

Sparkles is on her way back to the North Pole. She had a wonderful time visiting with the Music Authority Family again this year. Hopefully, she'll get to make one more appearance in 2018 - at Midnight Masquerade, the New Year's Eve Party for Teens in The Backroom. Do you have your tickets? She does! (And a sparkly dress, too!)
Dec. 31, 2018 - 6-10pm
Tickets $15 in advance; $20 at the door

How is Your Guitar Playing?

Do you have an older guitar that you love, but isn't playing quite right any more? Maybe it's time for a fret job. Andrew can remove your old frets and install new ones, making your guitar play like new. Bring yours by today for a consultation and free estimate.

Midnight Masquerade

December 31, 2018
6-10pm
Tickets $15 in Advance; $20 at the door

Don't miss out! Join us for the final show of the year - a teen only New Year's Eve Show in The Backroom!

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Twas the Night Before Christmas at Music Authority

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Buy a Guitar, Change the World

12/30/2018

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Music Authority Family Newsletter - December 18, 2018

It's the adventures of Sparkles and helping you race to the finish of the holiday season this week in the Music Authority Family Newsletter.

Buy a Guitar, Change the World (Locally)

News that Parson's is closing, after over 140 years in business, hit me pretty hard last week. It was a reminder that being a local business is difficult. From credit card processing fees (imagine what Music Authority could do with an extra $2,000 per month) to insurance (you don't even want to know that number) to Snow Days (the average snow day costs the store almost $2,000 in lost lessons alone).

For those of us who struggle through the hard times to enjoy the good, it's about passion. We love what we do. We never go to work.

Why should you buy locally when it's easier to stop by that big box store that stocks guitars at Christmas? Or even better, pull up Amazon and order online!

A local business is local. Music Authority has a staff of over 30 people. We're all local, spending money locally, paying taxes locally, and supporting local charity. When you support one local business, you're actually spreading your dollars through your own community. I buy groceries at the Cumming Harvest Farmers Market (supporting local growers). I shop at the Collection (providing jobs and supporting local artisans). I pay taxes in Forsyth County. I am not a CEO in another state.

A thriving sales floor is necessary to the music school. Sales support the store in a way that allows us to keep our lessons prices as low as possible. If we stop sales, either lessons prices must go up or the lessons programs will close.

Music Authority provides jobs to the community (over 30 of them) and hires from our own customer and student base when possible. We also support local charity, both publicly and privately. A portion of every dollar you spend at Music Authority goes back into the community through charities like CASA of Forsyth County, Music4CHIEF, The Forsyth County Humane Society, and more.

And then there's service. If you have a problem with anything you purchase from us, you have the opportunity to come in and talk to the owner of the store. We'll always do our best to make it right. We've replaced guitars, cables, fixed amps, and gone to the manufacturer to fight on behalf of our customer. Need a repair to your Taylor Guitar? No problem. We're a Silver Certified Taylor Repair Shop.

I know it's easy to sit at your kitchen table, sipping coffee, still in your slippers and pjs. Amazon comes up on your phone, a few taps of your fingers, and boom! That guitar is on it's way to your house.

It takes time to get dressed (honestly, come on down in your PJ's. We won't mind.). It takes effort to get in your car and drive down. But once you get here. we'll work with you to figure out what is the right purchase for you. (Not try to sell you the guitar our vendor is pushing us to sell.) We'll listen to your needs, your budget, why the color red is important, and Andrew will even make you a cup of coffee if you like.

Local businesses are important to the life of a community. We're proud to be part of Forsyth County. We're proud to be part of the community of Music Authority Family. And we hope, with your help, we will be here for years to come.

- Melissa A. Loggins, Owner
#MusicAuthorityFamily

Click Here to Log In to Your Lessons Account

The Adventures of Sparkles

Have you noticed our elf, Sparkles, this year? She's been all about gratitude this year - leaving thank you gift for teachers and staff (and for the staff's pets), showing up at concerts (sometimes on stage), and helping with decorations. Look for her the next time you're at Music Authority!

Pedals - The Perfect Stocking Stuffer

Whether you have a beginning guitarist or bassist, or a professional in your house, pedals are always a welcome addition to any guitar or bass rig. Students should all start with a pedal tuner. Not the most fun of pedals, it IS the most important pedal on the pedal board. Stop by today and we'll talk to you about your pedal options!

Free Lessons Giveaway
Pay your statement in full on time, be entered to win a month of free lessons in February.

Rules:
1.        Your statement must be paid in full by the end of the last lesson your student attends in December.  (You must have a balance of $0.)
2.        Your student must have actively attended lessons in December.
3.       Free month of lessons is good for February only, for one student on one instrument.  Missed lessons must e made up, no credits will be issued for free lessons.
4.       The value of the free lessons prize is $105.00.
5.       Drawing will take place in January.  Winner will be notified before February payments are due.

Not in Lessons at Music Authority? Sign Up Here!

Merry Christmas from Music Authority's Eclipse!

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Music Authority Family Newsletter - December 11, 2018

12/11/2018

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Music Authority Family Newsletter - December 11, 2018

Welcome to the new Music Authority Family newsletter! Less information, cleaner layout, the news you need!

Being Present

A few weeks before our Fall Show, we had a situation threaten to sideline one of our bands. Two of the members were forced to drop out of the band (through no fault of their own) less than a month before the concert. Since a band is a team, and each member is dependent on other members to succeed, the whole band was in danger of not being able to play.

Instead, two senior musicians stepped up to fill the spots. The resulting band was a hit of the show, performing a difficult song beautifully. This success isn't a single minded praise on the students who stepped in. It's a compliment to all the students.

As students move out of the beginning phases of performance (when the focus is not being afraid, remembering their music, and just figuring out what to do on stage), we hold them to a higher standard. We want to see them come out of their box - stage presence and movement become a bigger focus. Are you smiling on stage? Did you stand in one spot the whole time? Were you aware your guitar's volume was turned down? Are you listening to the whole band?

After these skills begin to improve, we focus on the most important (and most difficult) part of their skills. Are you being present? Are you aware another band is struggling? Are you willing to give up some time to help? Can you help the beginner in your group feel more comfortable? Did you notice your singer is afraid to move? Can you walk up to her and smile during your song, help her to find that ever-important stage presence?

Being present is about Situational Awareness. Is the musician aware of his space on stage and in the rehearsal room? Are they respectful of each other and willing to speak up in a respectful manner when something is wrong? Or are they going to simply blame the rest of the band for a problem and walk away? Is the musician ready and willing to help others?

These are tools that go beyond the music we hope we are imparting on your child. Sometimes the lessons are hard. Sometimes we have to let students make a mistake to learn. It's hard on us. We want them all to succeed all the time. But Being Present isn't learned by being right all the time.

My birthday is December 4. One year, I had a dress rehearsal on that day. The rehearsal didn't go well and at the end of the rehearsal I said some pretty harsh things and then told the (all adult) cast to "just go home." No one moved. They all looked very uncomfortable, eyes of the floor, dancing from foot to foot. A dear friend of mine was in the show. She walked up and whispered to me, "We have a cake and presents for you."

Talk about humility.

But I learned a lesson. I wasn't present in the moment that day. I didn't remember that (A) dress rehearsal is always terrible, and (B) what I took as talking through rehearsal was the cast trying to pass around a birthday card for everyone to sign. Had I been present, I might not have stuck my foot in my mouth.

Thank you for being part of our Music Authority Family. We hope your students are growing and learning tools to carry them through life. We hope the lessons we teach go beyond the music.

- Melissa A. Loggins, Owner
#MusicAuthorityFamily

Click Here to Log In to Your Lessons Account

Camp Registration Open

Register today for Summer Camp! We offer four camps each year: Rock Camp (2 sessions), Rock Camp, Jr., and Broadway Camp. Register by December 31, 2018 for an early registration discount.

Music Authority Welcomes Pearl

Music Authority is happy to welcome Pearl drums to the Music Authority Family. These drums make the perfect Christmas present - and set up is included! (It takes us about 60 minutes to set up and tune a drum set, something we do every day.)

Don't Be Past Due!

Payments are due on your last lesson of the month for the next month in advance. If you're leaving town for the holidays, don't forget to pay before you leave.

As a special perk, anyone who is paid in full at the end of their last lesson of December will be entered in a drawing for a free month of lessons in February. See the front desk for details.

Not in Lessons at Music Authority? Sign Up Here!

Happy Holidays from the cast of Rented Christmas

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Music Authority Family Newsletter - November 2018

11/9/2018

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Thank you for being a part of the Music Authority Family!

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Bright Colored Lights
December 2, 2018
3 pm

Don't miss the Classical Department's most popular concert of the year! All of your holiday favorites played by some of your favorite students. Tickets $5.00

Pirates!

Spring Show 2019
March 22, 2019
7:00 pm

What happens when a pirate wants to be a poet? Find out at the 2019 Spring Show. Registration opens on Monday, November 12, 2018.

Layaway Now for the Holidays

Layaway the perfect holiday gift today! Do you see the guitar your students wants for Christmas, already hanging on Music Authority's wall? Layaway today! Pay 20% down. You can make payments until Christmas Eve, or you can pay it all off at once - we'll even hide it in Santa's Closet if you don't want to take it home just yet.

Making Magic Happen

The last two years, I've spoken at our Summer Trade Show in Nashville. This year I have been asked to speak at our larger trade show in Anaheim, California. The topic is always the same - our educational program. I frequently say during these talks, and in the conversations that always follow with other music stores around the country, that if you care about your customers, your students, and your staff, that the magic will follow. By magic, I mean miracles - those moments in which the insurmountable obstacle is scaled, the unplayable song is nearly perfect, and the non-verbal child sings.

This summer had been a lesson in miracles for me. Miracles, magic, and a lot of prayer and introspection. October arrived and I finally felt like I was on stable ground again. The fall show was in full swing, staff changeover had stopped, and the mood around Music Authority was filled with humor, laughter, and more smiles that we've seen in a long time.

Then the weekend of October 27 happened. Eight Music Authority bands had been booked at the Moonshine Festival for the fifth year. Unfortunately, the volunteer run festival accidentally scheduled us on Saturday instead of Sunday. At 5pm on Saturday night, I could see that we weren't going to be able to play and we needed to change venues or cancel. I didn't want to cancel, so I sent a message to the Music Authority Roadies. "Must move tomorrow's show to the Backroom. Please help."

Three hours later, we had a plan. At 9am, six families and several carloads of Halloween and fall decorations are being unloaded in our parking lot. By 11:30 when the first band arrived for soundcheck, we had a haunted theater, a fun entryway, and enough food to feed two hundred people over the course of a five hour day. That's the magic. Families coming together to help an amazing festival happen that raised $400 for our Any Soldier project. Not bad for less than 16 hours of prep time.

Likewise, right now the Music Authority family is coming together to send holiday packages to American military stationed overseas. (You can make donations of items through November 10 at the store.) At the time I'm writing this, we have 39 boxes ready to ship out on Monday. These packages contain food, snacks, socks, hygiene products, and a lot of love.

The Music Authority Family is over 500 active students strong, not to mention thousands of families who no longer take lessons but are still part of the family. Together, we can make magic happen. I can't do this alone, I need you. I need you to drop a bag of beef jerky into the Any Soldier collection box. I need you to refer your neighbors to lessons. I need you to buy your next guitar from us, a portion of every sale goes back into the education and philanthropic activities at Music Authority. When you buy from us, you're not investing in a lake house and a boat. You're investing in the next Spring Show when a child will step on stage for the first time and feel that rush of confidence.

I need the Music Authority Roadies. They're the elves behind the scenes, staying up late to collect boxes of decorations, packing boxes for soldiers, writing thank you notes, and leaving gifts in teachers boxes to brighten their day.

Together, we all make the magic of the Music Authority Family happen.

#BeDriven #MusicAuthorityFamily

Melissa A. Loggins
Owner, Music Authority

Any Soldier boxes waiting to be shipped.

Rock Camp is Filling Up!

4 Camp Sessions this Summer

Believe it or not, Rock Camp is already starting to fill up! At over 25% full, some instruments are close to being full. Don't miss out on camp this summer - sign up today!

Frets not what they used to be?

Frets wear out over time if you're playing your guitar. Music Authority offers affordable fret repair, done right here in our own shop. Bring your problem guitars in for an estimate today!

Through December 1, Music Authority will be collecting toys for The Holiday House at The Place. Holiday House allows at need parents to apply for holiday assistance to provide gifts for their children. Please drop off your new toy in the box at Music Authority. You may also give gift cards or cash donations to The Place by giving your donation to Anastasia or Natalie at the front desk.

Thank you to all the families that pulled together to make our Fall Festival a success when the Moonshine Festival accidentally scheduled us on the wrong day. We had an amazing show!

The Music Authority Roadies - Music Authority's parents organization. We exist to provide social and philanthropic activities to the Music Authority families. We also provide an opportunity for better communication between families and the Music Authority management team.

To be a part of The Roadies, fill out a registration card at the front desk of Music Authority.

Join the Roadies on Facebook!
Join the Music Authority Roadies Facebook Group to keep up to date on service projects, special events, and social activities at Music Authority.

Sign Up for Lessons with Andrew Loggins, guitar, bass, and songwriting instructor!

Andrew has been performing music since he was a child. His first proficiency was violin. He played in Nashville, Atlanta, and many other places with his orchestra. Later, he went on to play trumpet in school band before he tried drums and then settled down with guitar.

Andrew is a graduate of the Atlanta Institute of Music. He works with many children who have a variety of learning and physical disabilities in his lessons. When Andrew is not teaching or running Music Authority, he tours with musician Ty Reynolds. Their tours have taken Andrew up and down the east coast, the mid-west and southeast.

Upcoming Events

November -
11/2 - Ashley Young Private Recital
11/3 - Taylor Find Your Fit Day
11/4 - Autumn Leaves Classical Department Recital
11/9 - Gone @ Cornerstone Schools - 7pm - Tickets $15
11/22 - Thanksgiving
11/30 - Rock Ensemble Concert @ The Backroom - 7pm - Tickets $8

December -
12/1 - Cookies, Cocoa, and Carols by the Roadies - 4pm
12/2 - Bright Colored Lights @ The Backroom - 3pm - Tickets $5
12/8 - Rented Christmas: A Christmas Musical @ The Backroom - 2pm - Tickets $10
12/8 - Rented Christmas: A Christmas Musical @ The Backroom - 7pm - Tickets $10
12/15 - Guitar Ensemble in the Lobby before The Nutcraker @ SFHS - 1:30 pm
12/16 - Eclipse in the lobby before The Nutcracker @ SFHS - 12:30pm
12/16 - AJ Hirsch private recital @ The Backroom - 3pm
12/24 - Music Authority closes at 4pm - No lessons
12/25 - CLOSED
12/31 - CLOSED
12/31 - New Year's Eve Teen Concert @ The Backroom - 6-10pm - Tickets $15

Photo: Kenny showing off his new Music Authority Roadies sweatshirt at the Fall Festival
#musicauthorityfamily

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Music Authority Family Newsletter - September 2018

9/12/2018

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Thank you for being a part of the Music Authority Family!

View this email in your browser

Creating a Song
September 16, 2018
3:00pm
Join Table for Two at a workshop to discuss their songwriting techniques. Recently moved to the Atlanta area, this musical duo will talk about how they write, the creative process, and will share an original song or two. Attendees are encouraged to bring their own songs to discuss and share. Workshop fee is $10.

Workshop: Building Your Skills with Brandon Faulkner

September 29, 2018
5:00pm

Join instructor Brandon Faulker for a workshop and discussion on the basics of practice, history, music, and recording. Brandon is a drum instructor, this workshop is open to all instruments.

Cost: $10.00

Taylor V Class Guitars Now Available!

Check out the newest design in Taylor Guitars, the V class. Available at Music Authority.

What Inspires You?

At the top of the stairs in my home is an old typewriter and a dirty, old Carhartt hat. Most people would throw both of them in the trash, useless pieces of history that have no use in today's electronic world. To me, seeing them daily is a reminder to keep striving to be better, to be true to myself, and to honor both the legacy that I am building and the one I have been left.

The hat and the typewriter belonged to my Grandpa. Many of you remember that he passed away last May, only four months after my Grandma died of Alzheimer's. They were farmers back home in Ohio, amazing people who taught me how to work hard, be positive, and to never give up. I lived with them my Senior year of high school, after my parents moved to Georgia. I wrote every one of my senior year papers on that typewriter because no one had a computer on the farm in 1996.

Today, I am a published author with a second novel about to hit shelves. That typewriter keeps me writing - every day. If I pack it away somewhere "safe," I hide with it my inspiration and my motivation to keep going. Where it sits it is my muse, reminding me that no matter how bad the day might have been, I have a choice. Keep putting one foot in front of the other or give up. So far, I haven't given up. Every day I get out my pen (or my laptop). Every day another page is born. Every day I am a little bit closer to the end of the next novel.

Andrew has an old Silvertone guitar in our living room. The only thing that's special about it is it's story. It's the same model an old friend of Andrew's used to play. Andrew sat with Hoyt one night a week for years as his health grew worse. The elderly guitar player, once well known, inspired Andrew when he was younger. Now a replica of his guitar sits in our livingroom.

I ask you, what inspires you? Have you put away the paint brushes? Are your knitting needles in the back of your closet? Does your guitar live in it's case under your bed?

Be inspired this fall. Remember the joy of playing music, writing poetry, or baking cookies. Dust off the old guitar, have it restrung, and put it on a stand where you'll see it every day. Remind the guitar of the times you've spent together - the songs you've played, the dreams you've made, and the hopes you've had. Then make some new dreams.

#BeDriven #MusicAuthorityFamily

Melissa A. Loggins
Owner, Music Authority

Eclipse on the Road!

Eclipse will be playing the Sandy Spring Heritage Festival's Battle of the Bands on September 23. Audience participation is part of the judging - come out, support Eclipse, and show your Music Authority Family spirit!

Learning New Skills

Music Authority's repair shop is studying amp repair! We can currently do some diagnostics and hope to do more soon!
Our guitar repair shop is in full swing - bring by your guitar today!

Music Authority and the Bel Canto Singers are doing a Christmas Musical! There are still a few parts available for adult men and a teenage boy. Let us know if you're interested!

Contact us at 770-886-9066

Let Us Celebrate with You!

Did you student earn their black-belt? Make Dean's List? Win a baseball championship? Let us know! We want to celebrate your child's successes!

Have you heard out Guitar Ensemble lately? Ensemble meets on Mondays at 5:30 and would love a few new members. See Anatastasia at the front desk for more information.

Refer a friend to lessons and receive $10 off a future bill! (Make sure your friend lets us know at the time of registration that you referred the, please!)

Sign Up for Lessons with Luke Yanders, guitar instructor!

Why do you like teaching?  I love to see students’ “Aha moments” and the excitement when they learn something new. Its such a great feeling showing them that anyone can do it if you are dedicated.

What makes you excited about playing music?  Playing guitar solos! Making newly written songs come to life. Learning a new trick, chord, scale or style to implement into my playing or performing.

What’s your favorite food?  Italian i.e. Pizza, pasta, etc. Or Chicken Cordon Bleu!

Where is your hometown?  Bouton, Iowa

Why I love music…You can express your personality through your playing because it absolutely conveys emotion or mood. The possibilities are endless. You can play music by yourself, in a group or in front of an audience. It is my shelter from any storm in life and a great stress reliever. Like a movie or a good book, music takes you to another place… a great escape! Best of all, it doesn’t cost any money to pick up your instrument and play!

Upcoming Events

September -
9/3 - Labor Day, Music Authority CLOSED
9/15 - Fall Show Mandatory Rehearsal
9/16 - Creating a Song Workshop, $10.00
9/23 - Happy Days Solo Recital in The Backroom, 3pm, tickets $8.00
9/23 - Music Authority's Eclipse at Sandy Springs Heritage Festival
9/29 - Brandon Faulker Workshop, The Backroom, 5pm, tickets $10.00

October -
10/8 - Eclipse @ Cumming Fair, 6:30pm
10/14 - Ashley Young Private recital
10/20 - 11-2pm - Music Authority Bands at Relay for Life (@Stars and Strikes)
10/20 - 7pm - Hocus Pocus in The Backroom, tickets $8.00
10/28 - 12-5pm - Music Authority Bands at Moonshine Festival in Dawsonville
10/31 - Halloween

Photo: Fall 2018 lineup of Music Authority's Revolution
#musicauthorityfamily

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Music Authority Family Newsletter - January 29, 2019

What Eclipse Means to Dominic Perez by Tina Perez

Jackson Warren's Favorite Piece of Gear

Teaching Music with Shae Humphrey

Music Authority Family Newsletter - January 22, 2019

Dawn Blair's Favorite Musical Memory

ESP Guitars

Off to California!

Music Authority Family Newsletter - January 15, 2019

Sashu Machani - What does being in Eclipse mean to you?

Importance of a "real" tuner

Drum tuning 101

Music Authority Family Newsletter - January 8, 2019

The Spring Show Has Begun!

Taylor Guitars - Builder's Edition - 614ce

How's Your Guitar Playing?

Music Authority Family Newsletter - January 1, 2019

Instructor Jeff Gray

GEORGIA MADE

Music Authority Family Newsletter - December 25, 2018

The Adventures of Sparkles

How is Your Guitar Playing?

Music Authority Family Newsletter - December 18, 2018

The Adventures of Sparkles

Pedals - The Perfect Stocking Stuffer

Music Authority Family Newsletter - December 11, 2018

Camp Registration Open

Music Authority Welcomes Pearl

Don't Be Past Due!

Making Magic Happen

What Inspires You?

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