Finding Time To Perform

I admit it. Lately it's been tough to find the time to perform. It wouldn't be so bad if it were easier to book satisfactory gigs. But it isn't easy. Sometimes I'm tempted to think that this problem is uniquely mine. Not so. Every musician I know experiences this problem.

Discussing this topic with my LA producer/long-time friend Gary White, I have learned that even for first-call session players, things can be tough. Not exactly headline news that things have always been tough in the arts.

My situation IS somewhat unique though. Here I am, still working my day job as an attorney, mainly defending poor folks charged with misdemeanors---minor crimes which are generally the result of making dumb decisions after drinking too much. Then I discovered that I really enjoy creating new living environments using sustainable products. Some people characterize this new activity as real estate development but I don't really think of it that way. I prefer to think of it as community re-development because I'm taking worn-out, unattractive buildings and replacing them with new places for people to live that are visually striking and environmentally sensitive.

In the process, I've learned a lot and made many new relationships with architects and professionals in the building trades, many of whom are artists within their own areas of specialization. Through a highly collaborative process, we have designed and built a couple projects which some describe as "Northwest Urban" architecture.

I am proud of what we have accomplished. I have a newfound passion for this and I find myself wanting to do more. But there are problems. For one, it is not without significant financial risk. But mostly it takes a lot of time. Before I starting doing this, I was very busy with music and law. Now that I have added so much real estate activity to my slate of activities, I'm busier than ever. Something had to give. None of what I do is easily sacrificed but it seems that the task of trying to book gigs is the thing I am least inclined to do. The result---performances have been rare.

I still pick up my guitar every day. And I still intend to push the music when time allows in the future. But for now, I'm seriously immersed in a new kind of creative process. Without seeking any recognition for this new activity in the media, I've gotten plenty. I've been featured in several articles recently and I'm happy to say that the portrayals have been flattering. One called me a "renaissance man". I am humbled and flattered by such attention. But mostly I hope that my example inspires others to be adopt building practices with a greater sensitivity to the environment. Yes, it costs more money initially to build using sustainable practices and materials, but in the long run, you save money, the consumer enjoys a better product and society benefits. If you know any developers, encourage them to learn more and if they have any questions, have them contact me. I would be delighted to share my knowledge and enthusiasm.