Entries by denniswinge

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. […]

My Musical Journey with Salsa Libre

 Playing with Salsa Libre was an exhilarating experience that broadened my musical horizons and deepened my appreciation for the rich tapestry of salsa music. Over the course of three gigs, one at Tioga Downs with an 8-piece ensemble and another at Rumble Ponies Ballpark in Mirabito Stadium with a smaller 5-piece band, I had the […]

Reflections on Receiving My First Public Criticism

Recently, my band Blue Train posted a cover of Cream’s “Crossroads” on YouTube. The performance received a comment that, when translated from German, reads: “Sounds completely clumsy; it makes you realize what you had in the original. Maybe you should start by adding some simpler blues numbers to the setlist. You’re covering a piece by […]

Family Party in Rochester

There’s something uniquely special about performing at family gatherings. These events brim with warmth, joy, and the collective energy of close-knit groups coming together to celebrate milestones. Recently, I had the pleasure of playing at a surprise party for a 36-year-old in a beautiful backyard in a Rochester suburb. The experience was both challenging and […]

My Journey Through Diverse Musical Styles:

As a musician, one of the most rewarding aspects of my career has been the opportunity to explore and master a wide range of musical genres. Each style presents its own unique challenges and joys, enriching my musical journey and broadening my perspective as a guitarist. From the high-energy riffs of punk rock to the […]

Live Band vs. DJ for Your Wedding

When it comes to planning your wedding, one of the key decisions you’ll face is the type of entertainment you want to provide for your guests. I’ve worked with countless couples over the years, and I know this decision can feel daunting. Many couples automatically think that hiring a DJ will be easier or more […]