Performing at The Downstairs Ithaca

Ithaca, New York, is known for its vibrant arts scene, and venues like The Downstairs have become a cornerstone for local musicians and creatives. Located on State Street, this intimate listening room and art gallery offers a perfect setting for unique musical events. On a recent evening, I had the pleasure of hosting an event titled Art of Solo Guitar, where I shared tips, strategies, and performances with a captivated audience of fellow guitar enthusiasts.  I had shared a bit about the workshop and concert previously when I was promoting it in this blog post.

A Unique Venue

The Downstairs, nestled below The Watershed and near the State Theatre, is a cozy, community-supported space. With seating for approximately 50 people, it provides an intimate environment ideal for workshops and performances. The venue’s mission to promote local artistry made it a perfect choice for my event, combining educational and performance aspects in a setting designed for deep engagement.

I’ve performed here before, as part of the house band for the monthly Ithaca Jazz Jam, and each time, the venue’s atmosphere has left a lasting impression. Its acoustics, layout, and supportive audience create an environment where music thrives, allowing artists to connect deeply with listeners.

The Workshop

The evening began with a one-hour workshop aimed at guitarists of all levels. Solo guitar is an art form that requires not only technical skill but also a deep understanding of musicality, arrangement, and stage presence. Here are some highlights from the workshop:

• Balancing Melody, Harmony, and Rhythm: One of the biggest challenges in solo guitar is creating a full sound. I shared techniques to seamlessly weave melody, harmony, and rhythm together, using examples from jazz standards and popular tunes.
• Arranging for Solo Guitar: I demonstrated how to take a basic chord-melody arrangement and enhance it with dynamic voicings, passing tones, and rhythmic variations. This segment resonated with attendees looking to personalize their arrangements.
• Stage Presence and Flow: Playing solo can feel vulnerable, but it’s also an opportunity to engage an audience on a personal level. I emphasized the importance of pacing, emotional connection, and the use of space in performance.
• Practical Tips for All Levels: Whether attendees were beginners or advanced players, I provided actionable advice tailored to different skill levels. From fingerstyle techniques to effective practice routines, the workshop offered something for everyone.

The Performance

Following the workshop, I performed an hour-long set featuring selections from my new solo album, Sunday Brunch. The album reflects my journey as a guitarist and includes a blend of original compositions and creative arrangements of familiar tunes. The performance was an opportunity to bring the concepts discussed in the workshop to life.

Some highlights of the set included:

• Original Pieces: Tracks from Sunday Brunch showcased my approach to solo guitar, blending jazz, blues, and fingerstyle techniques. The audience responded warmly to pieces that combined technical mastery with heartfelt expression.
• Unexpected Surprises: To keep the set dynamic, I included unexpected covers like Roy Buchanan’s “Hot Cha” and Jimi Hendrix’s “Voodoo Child.” These pieces allowed me to explore different styles and demonstrate how solo guitar can adapt to various genres.
• Improvisation and Interaction: The intimate setting of The Downstairs encouraged a sense of connection with the audience. I incorporated moments of improvisation, taking cues from the room’s energy to create a performance that felt spontaneous and alive.

Reflections on the Evening

The Art of Solo Guitar event was a rewarding experience, both as a performer and an educator. The Downstairs provided an ideal platform for this kind of multifaceted engagement, allowing me to share my passion for solo guitar in a supportive and inspiring environment. Attendees left with practical skills and a deeper appreciation for the art form, while I gained valuable insights from their questions and feedback.

Looking Ahead

This event reinforced the importance of venues like The Downstairs in fostering local artistry. I hope to continue offering similar workshops and performances, not only to share knowledge but also to celebrate the rich musical community we have in Ithaca. Whether through jazz jams, solo guitar showcases, or other creative endeavors, The Downstairs remains a beacon for artists and audiences alike.

If you’re a guitarist looking to expand your skills or a music lover seeking intimate performances, keep an eye on The Downstairs’ calendar. It’s a space where creativity flourishes, and every event leaves a lasting impact.

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Stay tuned for future events and updates, and don’t forget to check out Sunday Brunch on spotify, itunes, or bandcamp.

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