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 a resort with an eight-piece ensemble, another at a baseball stadium with a smaller five-piece band, and a third at a rooftop university event—I […]

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 […]

Sunset Salsa: A Perfect Blend of Music and Atmosphere

Playing a gig with my band Sunset Salsa at Liquid State North Shore in Romulus was a fun experience. This event stood out not only because of the music but also due to the unique setting and the warm, family-friendly atmosphere of the venue. The Vibrant Atmosphere Liquid State North Shore, known for its high-quality, […]

Playing Solo at Great Family Party

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 suburb. The experience was both challenging and rewarding, […]

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 […]