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Music Authority Family Newsletter for February 26, 2019

3/13/2019

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Music Authority Family Newsletter - February 26, 2019

Recitals, Elizabeth Sherlock, the Yamaha Pacifica, Spring Break Camp, and the benefits of older adults taking music lessons.
Are Recitals Really Important?
This week's article is a continuation of last week.  We're taking a look at the actions you can take, as a parent, that help keep your child engaged in lessons.

Imagine joining a baseball team.  You go to the registration day, sign up your child, get all the necessary equipment, and start going to practice.  Your child goes to practice for months; they learn how to throw, to bat, and to catch.  But they never play a game.  How long will it be before baseball gets boring?

Taking lessons without performance is a lot like that.  Playing by yourself in your room can only keep a student interested for so long.

Will your student say they're nervous?  Probably.  Will they say they don't want to do it?  Maybe.  Should you encourage them and find a way around the nerves?  Absolutely.

Students who perform early in their lessons career will do better.  They're less likely to say "no" the sooner they sign up for a recital.  The most successful teacher I know assigns his students their first recital at their very first lesson.

At Music Authority, we find that students who participate in recitals stay in lessons an average of 2-3 years.  That's 2-3 years of developing better math skills, engaging the brain at a deeper level, of learning to think outside of the box.  Students who don't participate in performance?  They generally drop out in 6-8 months if they're in books; 90 days if they don't have books to learn from.

Are recitals really important?  Yes.  A recital can make the difference between a successful experience in music and a short experience.

Melissa A. Loggins, Owner

#MusicAuthorityFamily
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Senior Spotlight: Elizabeth Sherlock


Elizabeth Sherlock has tried almost any lesson Music Authority has to offer.  Once a piano student of Melissa Loggins, she has studied flute, clarinet, bass clarinet, and violin.  What she's the most well known for, however, is playing bass.  Here are Elizabeth's thoughts on her experience at Music Authority.

"Music lessons have transformed my life. Music has shaped me into a different and better person. I have made lifelong friends, and I believe music brings people together. I factor in musical programs at the colleges I look at.

In college, I will be studying nursing, because I want to help people. I am currently deciding between UNG and KSU. They both have fantastic nursing and music programs."

Yamaha Pacifica

The Yamaha Pacifica is a stellar entry level guitar for the student just wanting to start out on electric.  Made with fine craftsmanship, the strat style guitar comes in a variety of colors.  If your student is looking for an electric guitar, come by and check one out!

Stop by Music Authority and play one today!

Spring Break Camp!

Sign up for Music Authority's Spring Break camp - singing, dancing, costumes, sets and more fun celebrating the music of the movies.

Sign up today!
Not in Lessons at Music Authority? Sign Up Here!
The NAMM Foundation show benefits of music lessons in older adults - take a look!
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February 19, 2019

3/13/2019

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Music Authority Family Newsletter - February 19, 2019

90 Days of Lessons, Introducing Tina Louise, the Taylor 224ce-k, and Rockin' out with Rock Ensemble
90 Days
I love statistics.  At Music Authority, we track all kinds of numbers to help us better serve our customers. 

One of the most shocking numbers we track is return rates for students who drop.  Each summer, Christmas season, and change of sports season, we have a group of students who drop for _________ (fill in the season).  But we'll be back in two months to start lessons again!

Approximately 7% actually return.  That means 93% are losing their investment in music.  Even students who have been in lessons for years prior to dropping have the same statistic. 

Here's another statistic - students who take lessons without a book will only stay in lessons for an average of 90 days.  Hand outs, sheets of notebook paper, or hand written assignments simply don't have the same educational impact as being in a book does.

Yet, every week we have parents who insist they try out lessons without making the investment in a book.  "We'll buy it once we're sure."  I ask, how can you study and learn if you don't have the material?  Statistics show if the material isn't purchased, then your student will almost certainly not stay in lessons.

Books create a logical path of learning.  A book will also help parents to see quantifiable progress in lessons.  There is no question as to if their child is learning anything, it's easy to see we're on page 12 today and were on page 8 last week.  And as the teacher supplements the material, tests the student on the material, and encourages progress, the book and teacher work in tandem to educate and inspire.

How much longer does a student stay in lessons if they're in a book?  6-8 months, or the rest of the current school year.  These students still have a habit of dropping for the summer, never to return.  If you want to keep them engaged longer - sign them up for a recital.  Students participating in performance will stay in lessons for an average of 2-3 years.

Melissa A. Loggins, Owner

#MusicAuthorityFamily
#beyondthemusic
 
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Welcoming Tina Louise to the Staff!

Tina has been singing for almost as long as she's been talking, and began singing at church, weddings and funerals at an early age. In 2000, she started writing and performing in a rock band that lead her to recording music and touring for close to 10 years.

In 2010, she moved to Atlanta to become a full time musician, where she became, and continues to be, a first call vocalist for producer/engineer, Jeff Tomei (Smashing Pumpkins, Matchbox 20). She's currently working on a major label release with Jessie James Dupree of the band Jackyl and is in a band with the guitar beast known around Music Authority as, Andrew Loggins.

Taylor 224ce-k

Fans of Hawaiian koa will love the look, feel and sound of this all-koa Grand Auditorium. A shaded edgeburst elevates the vintage appeal of the solid koa top, which is paired with layered koa back and sides, while a gloss finish wraps the body in a rich sheen.

Stop by Music Authority and play one today!

Rock Ensemble Concert

Have you seen the Rock Ensembles perform?  Come out on Friday, February 22, at 7pm to the Backroom at Music Authority.  It's fun for the whole family, great music, and you can support our young musicians at the same time!  Tickets $5.
Not in Lessons at Music Authority? Sign Up Here!
Who misses Rock Camp?  Sign ups are open now - and we're open to all kind of instruments at camp, like saxophone, trumpet, and flute!  Sign up today!
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Music Authority Family Newsletter for February 12, 2019

2/25/2019

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Music Authority Family Newsletter - February 12, 2019

Introducing Bree Shannon, TKL Cases, Rock Camp, Jr, and learning new languages

 
Cómo estás
I have embarked on a new adventure.  I am learning to speak Spanish with the help of a Music Authority dad.  From the perspective of someone who spoke French fluently enough to survive in France without any English speaking help, this is a far more daunting task than I first imagined.

However, as my tutor reminded me, this isn't that much different than an adult picking up an instrument for the first time.  (And then being tossed on stage in a Spring show - not that I'd ever do that to anyone.  Cough.)

Music is a language, just like Spanish.  You can learn to play (repeat phrases by rote without learning the whys behind what you're saying) or you can learn to speak (understand the language well enough to put together your own sentences.)

Music Authority teaches the language.  We want you student to be able to speak the language with other students, to be able to function in a band or a group.  To be able to write songs of their own.  We don't want them just to tell us "what song do you want to play today."  

Language is important.  It engages the parts of your brain that do math and science, check out the studies on Google.  Music makes your student smarter.

Adults, we handle you a little different.  We want you to understand the language, yes, but we also want you to have fun and learn the songs you didn't a chance to play when you were a kid.  Science shows music is good for you, too, helping to keep the brain engaged.  Some studies even show music can delay dementia.

Much like throwing adult musicians onto the stage, I guess I just put myself out there.  I'm trying my best (I can greet you, tell you my name, and ask how can I help you).  Feel free to quiz me.  But please also give me a sticker and tell me to keep practicing for next week.

Melissa A. Loggins, Owner

#MusicAuthorityFamily
#beyondthemusic
 
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Introducing Bree Shannon

Bree Shannon is a native of Marietta, Ga and started singing and performing at the age of 12. She just retired from 12 years of working as a production performer and lead vocalist for Carnival Cruise Lines, where she sang and performed every genre of music, from rock, pop, r&b, country, classic soul and Motown. Bree loves to perform, loves teaching others and her main focuses are stage presence, audience connection and storytelling through song.

Bree is also a TV, film and commercial actor, a voice-over talent, and she’s a member of the Screen Actor’s Guild and Actor’s Equity Association.  Her passion is performing on stage for a live audience and sharing her gifts and knowledge of performance with others.  She believes that you can never be too good at your talent to learn more, grow more and be better! 

TKL

Music Authority is happy to now offer TKL Cases to the Music Authority Family!  TKL offers deluxe gig bags and cases - an investment in protecting your gear.  Don't see what you're looking for?  Talk to one of our customer service specialists and we'll be happy to order what you need!

Rock Camp, Jr.

Jake Lanni, this year with the help of TA Dominic Perez, leads one of the most fun camps of the summer at Music Authority - Rock Camp, Jr.  If your student, age 5-10, is looking to get their feet wet in a band, this is the camp for you!  Shortened hours from our full rock camp, campers join a band, learn about instruments, do crafts, and put on a show Friday night.  Sign up today!  (Space is limited.)
Not in Lessons at Music Authority? Sign Up Here!
Rock Camp, Jr. 2018 - Jake Barnes, Brody Higham, Ryan Britto, and TA Kaitlyn Lahr.  Under the direction of Jake Lanni.  Sign your 5-10 year old for Rock Camp, Jr. today!
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Music Authority Newsletter for February 5, 2019

2/18/2019

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Music Authority Family Newsletter - February 5, 2019

The NAMM Wrap Up
Seeing the Forest
Sometimes, you need to get away from home to see the forest.  Stuck in the daily grind of paying bills, managing students and personalities, and keeping the walls stocked, we forget to look at the big picture.

The big picture came into focus on Thursday morning when I presented my NAMM session.  The room was packed.  I mean, every seat was full, the overflow space where people could watch on a monitor was full, and people were lined up standing along the outside edges.  I asked, is it normal to have this many people at a 10:30 session on Thursday?  The reply: well, you're an expert.

Woah, let's not throw around that word.  (Side note - shout out to Valencia School of Music, whom I know reads this newsletter, for bringing your people out to see the session!)  Maybe instead of expert we should call it "too stubborn to give up."

A second surprise came later that day when I mentioned we'd completely recovered our student numbers from a situation over the summer that had caused something of a staffing and PR crisis.  "Impossible," I was told.  It should take eighteen months to recover from something like that.  Well, I'm sorry to tell you, but it took six.

It's hard to see the miracles - the result of hard work by dedicated teachers, staff, parents, and students - when you're focused on solving the next crisis.

I bring back from California not a list of the new products you'll see on our shelves.  (Those are coming, don't worry, watch our social media for the exciting arrivals and announcements.)  

I come back with clearer vision, focus, and a drive to continue to innovate, improve, and inspire.  I come back to keep working to give you, the Music Authority Family, the best in education, service, and product experiences.  

And to the stores in Buffalo, Westfield, San Diego, Smyrna, Tampa, and Cincinnati who reached out to know more about the Music Authority programs and the Music Authority Family, thank you for keeping me inspired to do more, to keep improving, to continue to do better.  Come for a visit if you're ever in Atlanta, I'd love to show you around. 

Melissa A. Loggins, owner 

#MusicAuthorityFamily
#beyondthemusic
 
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NAMM: The People

One of the best parts of the show is the people.  We met an amazing guitar manufacturer from France, case makers from China, talked to Santa Cruz guitars from California, and we got to see my Inside Sales Rep (Josh) from Taylor.  

It's refreshing to talk about music lessons with different stores from around the country, to share stories and brainstorm new ideas.  Stores in New Jersey, Florida, California, Ireland, and Australia, just to name a few, want to know more about the Music Authority program and Family.  (And boy, are there some great new ideas coming soon to Music Authority!)

Yes, it's a bit embarrassing to almost cry all over the lessons guru who helped you out over the summer because you can't think of any words to say except, "Thank you."  (See Pete Gamber in the photo.  And yes, I almost cried.)

Whatever your industry, if it has a trade show - Go!  Make friends, keep business cards, follow up.  You never know what doors will open or what friendships you might find.  You might even find yourself sharing a laugh with a sales rep you thought you'd always hate.  Or inspiration in a field you've never thought about being a part of. 

*Music Authority invites high school students who are part of the Rock Ensemble programs to apply to attend the Summer NAMM Show held each year in Nashville.

The Coolest Guitar at the Show

Melissa doesn't get excited about electric guitars.  At least not until we stumbled upon a French company with only a handful of American dealers.  Wild Custom Guitars.  OMG, beautiful, well crafted, incredible design and visual look, and totally out of the price range of guitars we sell.

Ah, well, we can dream for now.

Meanwhile, we also looked at Santa Cruz, Collings, Larivee, TKL cases, visited with friends from Greer Amplification, Blue Ridge Guitars, BA Ferguson, and more.  We'll have new arrivals soon from Taylor (we ordered two custom builds that are going to be AMAZING), ESP, Marshall, and a new line from Yamaha we're super excited about.  (Unfortunately, the new Yamaha line is top secret for now...)

Keep your eyes open - new, cutting edge gear is coming soon!  (And if anyone is in the market for an incredible electric, let's talk!)

Tecate, Mexico and Taylor Guitars

As a final stop on their west coast journey, the Music Authority travelers took advantage of an opportunity to visit both the Mexican and the American Taylor Guitar factories.  The state of the art factory in Tecate, Mexico was spectacular.  Their dedicated staff turns out top quality guitars with evident pride.

The American factory is equally impressive.  The smell of the wood when you first arrive is worth the trip by itself.  Two custom build guitars, one made from Blackwood and one sporting Black Limba back and sides, will be coming to Music Authority in the future months.

If you want to hear more about the Taylor Factories, stop in and see Andrew, Melissa, or Savannah to hear about the trip!
Not in Lessons at Music Authority? Sign Up Here!
Since Melissa and Savannah didn't get any great celebrity photos (unless you count pictures of Andrew), here's a video from Andertons Music in UK.  Andertons has the BEST YouTube Channel for music geeks (and a big store in Guildford, Surrey, UK).  We DID see the line for this meet and greet (it was so long it was disrupting traffic into the ESP booth where we had a meeting), so does that mean we almost met John Mayer?

Check out Andertons channel.  It's amazing.
The Music Authority Roadies would like to announce the addition of Gary Kerr to the Roadies Board of Directors.  He will be taking over the position of Vice Chair.  Alice Lopez, the previous Vice Chair, will be moving to the position of Social Director.

The Roadies Board meets on the second Tuesday of each month in The Backroom at Music Authority.  Meetings are open to the public, we would love for you to join us!
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Music Authority Family Newsletter Takeover

2/12/2019

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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)
 
Not in Lessons at Music Authority? Sign Up Here!
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!
Not in Lessons at Music Authority? Sign Up Here!
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.
Not in Lessons at Music Authority? Sign Up Here!
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!
Not in Lessons at Music Authority? Sign Up Here!
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
 
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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!
Not in Lessons at Music Authority? Sign Up Here!
Twas the Night Before Christmas at Music Authority
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