Friday 5 August 18, 2017

Hello, my friends 😃 Another week in the books! Well done. Here is your Friday 5!

Firstly, I want to thank you for being kind human beings and citizens of the world. Though most of my readers are in the United States, last week’s Friday 5 was also read in Kenya, Canada, Indonesia, Spain, Egypt, Bahrain, Brazil, Thailand…just to name a few. I’ve long believed that music is one of the most effective bridges between people of different beliefs and backgrounds. In a world that emphasizes and all-too-often fears differences, musicians and music therapists are building connections and bringing people together. Many countries and communities are facing significant challenges and our work is as important now as it ever was. Keep on connecting people. Keep on giving and fostering love.  Keep leading by example. Keep on sharing music, and keep being kind.

The Rise of Superman: Decoding the Science of Ultimate Human Performance by Steven Kotler

When My Train Pulls In by Gary Clark Jr.

Music often communicates the values and stories of a culture. Lately I’ve enjoyed sampling music from around the world and one of the resources that has been intriguing is WorldMusic.net. Get lost in lessons and examples of music from every nook and cranny of this amazingly musical planet.

I have a couple of these USB microphones by Blue and I get pretty good recordings. Perfect for podcasts, bedside sessions, and other little projects. I use it for all my guitar videos, too. What makes it so easy is that it plugs right into your computer. I’ve only used it with Macs but I assume it’s good for PC projects as well.

Have a great weekend!

Matt

PS

Do you love Music Therapy Source and the Friday 5? Since 2009, I’ve poured hours into collecting and sharing resources for music therapists and people who want to become music therapists. This is a labor of love, and I’m not trying to get rich doing it. However, there are costs to maintaining the website and the ever-growing email list. If you love the resources and have the means to help keep it going, please consider subscribing! There are 3 different levels, which start at about the price of a pack of guitar picks ($5/month). And if you have already pledged some support, THANK YOU from the bottom of my heart. I am sending good vibes and a virtual hug your way.