Entries by denniswinge

Managing the Ups and Downs of a Musician’s Life

The On and Off Seasons in Ithaca, NY Where I live in Ithaca, NY, there is a definite ‘on’ and ‘off’ season for musicians. May to October is ‘on,’ while the rest of the year is ‘off,’ except for holiday parties in December. The contrast can be so extreme that a musician must learn to […]

A Perfect Summer Evening performing at Ithaca Beer Company

In the picturesque surroundings of the Finger Lakes, Ithaca Beer Company stands out as a local favorite for both craft beer enthusiasts and those looking for a lively, community-centric atmosphere. Founded in 1998, this brewery has become a staple of Ithaca’s cultural scene, known not only for its diverse beer offerings but also for its […]

Super-Fun Country Wedding

Playing a country wedding with The Way Band in Dansville, NY, was an unforgettable experience that pushed us out of our usual comfort zone and into a realm where we could explore new musical territories. As someone who doesn’t identify as a country musician, the prospect of playing a seven-hour gig, predominantly filled with country […]

Collaborating with Valley View Events

As the bandleader of The Way Band, I’ve played at countless weddings, but every so often, a particular event stands out not just because of the music, but because of the impeccable planning and the people behind it. Such was the case when we performed at a recent wedding on Cayuga Lake in Ovid, NY, […]

Wedding at Trailwater Lodge

Playing a wedding at Trailwater Lodge was a truly memorable experience. The venue, nestled along the scenic Salmon River in Altmar, NY, provided a stunning backdrop for both the ceremony and the cocktail hour. As a musician, I’ve performed at numerous wedding venues, but the combination of natural beauty, versatile spaces, and the warmth of […]

Feeling Beat Up on Stage

Being a musician is a journey filled with highs and lows, triumphs, and challenges. Last night, I faced one of those challenging moments during an open mic session in Southport, NC. It was a night dedicated to instrumental Afro-Cuban Latin Jazz on solo guitar, a genre that I deeply enjoy but also presents unique difficulties. […]