RUBY: News

Finally rid of the cast last week. Ready to see how quickly I can start playing guitar and piano. Glad to get back working on some new songs!

I'm on an unexpected performance hiatus due to an equally unexpected broken wrist. At least I was doing something fun at the time (horseback riding). Anyone have a song about being in a cast in the summer?

My recent home studio gear purchases are inspiring a bunch of new recording work. Look for some new songs in the next month!

Had a blast over the last week attending ASCAP's "I Create Music" expo. Heard from music legends, hit writers and top producers. Also met some amazing songwriters! I'll be adding links so you can check out them out, too. Look for them under my links page next week.

I've been working on a new keyboard/synth project with a local musician. We're developing "Chill" type tracks. (Check out the genre on Sirius Satellite Radio.) I'm enjoying the challenge and inspiration!

Last Saturday was the first Songwriters of Alaska Showcase. What a cool evening! A nice variety of music and great performance by featured artist, Amy Lou Hettinger.

Songwriters of Alaska's next meeting is Thursday, March 12th, 6:00 p.m., at Surreal Studios in Anchorage. This group is for all levels, genres and ages. For more info, contact Ruby@RubySongs.com

Songwriters of Alaska and Organic Oasis will be hosting a Songwriters of Alaska Showcase, the third Saturday of the month, starting March 21st. Come check it out!

First meeting last night and I'd say the group's off to a great start! What a cool bunch of folks, great songs, and lots of excitement about getting a regular thing up and going. Check back soon for our Songwriters Open Mic announcement!

They're predicting a 75% chance that Mt. Redoubt will erupt this weekend. As a newbie "volcano watcher," I'm thinking this should be very interesting...

Got to play and listen to some local talent at last night's Songwriter's Circle, part of the mid-week events of the Anchorage Folk Festival. Too bad we didn't have more time...we could have played all night!

Played last night, despite the ice and crazy road conditions. Heard a lot of great, local talent and met some pretty cool songwriters. Check out the festival...events throughout Anchorage and the Valley until January 25th. www.anchoragefolkfestival.org

My recent performance in Handel's Messiah made me realize how important singing is to me. Whatever the genre, the thing I enjoy most about music is the chance to perform vocally. (Don't tell that to my piano!)

There's nothing like a cold Alaska winter day to inspire songs about sunshine and heat! Actually, the crisp beauty of the snowy landscape lends itself to all sorts of ideas. Now what to start on first?

What an amazing roadtrip! I'm inspired, humbled and grateful to the many musicians and songwriters I met on my travels.

I can't think of a more exciting adventure. Who knows where it will take me next!

Had a great time at the Songwriter Guild of America's workshop. Met some amazing, professional songwriters - nothing like success stories to get you motivated! I can't wait to get back to Alaska to start writing new songs!

CDs are ready, website's up and running, and things are looking good for a timely departure to TAXI's Road Rally!