Entries by denniswinge

Managing the Ups and Downs of a Musician’s Life

The On and Off Seasons For many musicians, there’s a definite rhythm to the year—a busy “on” season and a slower “off” season. Typically, May through October brings a surge of weddings, outdoor events, and festivals, while the colder months tend to quiet down, except for a few holiday parties in December. The contrast can […]

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 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 music, was initially […]

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. […]