Dolphin Assisted Therapy

I always marvel when we human beings feel ourselves so superior to other sentient beings in nature such as dolphins, whales, and elephants, among others. Perhaps at one time we could claim superiority, but humans have become so out of touch with nature and their environment, that we've shut off any of the higher, intuitive, natural insticts that we may have once had.

Here's an excerpt from a great article by Robert Wolff that talks about the healing power of dolphins. I've often thought that these creatures were much wiser than us, and science is just beginning to discover that to be true!

Author:Wolff, Robert

"Deena Hoagland understands the impact a dolphin can have on a human life. Her son, Joe, was left partially paralyzed and visually impaired after having a stroke at the age of three during open-heart surgery.

Deena learned about Dolphins Plus, a nearby research center specializing in dolphin communication. Wanting to get Joe into the water, and intrigued by the prospect of exposing him to dolphins, Deena secured permission from Dolphins Plus owner, Lloyd Borguss, to bring Joe to the center.

It was at Dolphins Plus that Joe first encountered Fonzie, an Atlantic-bottlenosed dolphin. Meeting Fonzie prompted Joe to smile and laugh for the first time since his stroke. Before long, Joe was not only walking, he was bringing Fonzie buckets of fish. After 22 months of interacting with the dolphin, and participating in swim therapy and physical therapy, Joe was close to a full recovery. Now, 11 years later, Joe and Fonzie remain the best of friends.

What Is It About Dolphins?

Researchers have found, for example, that dolphin-assisted therapy aids in reducing stress and increasing relaxation, alleviating depression, boosting production of infection fighting T-cells, stimulating production of endorphins and hormones, enhancing recovery, and reducing pain.

One of the more popular theories is that the dolphin's use of sonar and echolocation produces changes in a person's body tissue and cell structure. Similar to the effect of music therapy, some researchers have suggested that the sounds dolphins emit through their whistles and clicks help produce these changes.

Indeed, some individuals swimming with dolphins have reported actually sensing that they were being scanned. They say the echolocation resonated in their bones as they felt it pass through their bodies, producing a tingling sensation.

Another theory is that dolphins are uniquely sensitive to the needs of people with disabilities and seek to help them through playful expressions of concern. This is sometimes referred to as a "secret language" shared when dolphins and people with disabilities "communicate." Dr. Smith goes so far as to suggest that dolphins communicate acoustically with a variety of movements and attend to the body cues of individuals; in particular, individuals with autism, thereby seemingly understanding their thoughts and actions."

Safeguard your voice from winter air

We've just had a big winter storm here in Utah. Loads of fluffy snow on the ground, and more to come. Yes, I know that in some parts of the country, it's nearly Spring, but here at 5600 feet Spring won't be showing herself for a couple more months.

If you live in a cold, winter climate, make sure you safeguard your voice throughout the winter. Avoid directly breathing in the cold air by covering your mouth with a scarf. Drink plenty of warm liquids to keep your vocal cords hydrated.

Try my Viva La Voice Tonic Recipe for winter, or 'singer's throat'. It's great for warming and hydrating the voice; wards off colds; clears the system and boosts the immune system! Try it, it's fantastic!

Breathing in cold air dries out the vocal cords and can cause a scratchy, rough sounding voice. Be kind to your voice this winter!

Givingness

Here's a wonderful message I found from Rev. Diane Russell, reminding me that it's the everyday, authentic gift of self that changes the world, one person, and one moment at a time.


"Givingness is the nature of God, and It gives to us from pure Love. Because our nature is the nature of God, it is also our nature to be giving, to be generous. Giving comes from the heart, not from a sense of obligation or duty. The gifts that mean the most are the gifts that are you - your attention, your love, your smile. This is easy when you come from your authentic self - the Divine at your core.

Remember that you are the gift, and make your giving your joy.

Remember that you are the Light, and your light makes a difference to me, and to each other, and to the world."

Guest Writer: Rev. Diane Russell
Staff Minister, Bonita Church of Religious Science

Sound Therapy - Hope For Tinnitus Sufferers

Because so many of my musician friends suffer from tinnitus, or ringing in the ears, I was really excited to read this article on Medindia.com. It seems that the administration of low pitched tones gives relief, albeit temporary, from the incessant, annoying high-pitched ringing that just about drives my friends crazy. This is great news - pass it on:



Low Pitch Therapy for ‘ringing in the Ears’

UC Irvine researchers have found a treatment for tinnitus, the hearing damage loud music can cause.


Fan-Gang Zeng and colleagues have identified an effective way to treat the symptoms of tinnitus, a form of hearing damage typically marked by high-pitched ringing that torments more than 60 million Americans.

The researchers found that a low-pitched sound applied by a simple MP3 player suppressed and provided temporary relief from the high-pitch ringing tone associated with the disorder.

Tinnitus is caused by injury, infection or the repeated bombast of loud sound, and can appear in one or both ears. It’s no coincidence that many rock musicians, and their fans, suffer from it. Although known for its high-pitched ringing, tinnitus is an internal noise that varies in its pitch and frequency. Some treatments exist, but none are consistently effective.

Zeng presented his study Feb. 13 at the Middle Winter Research Conference for Otolaryngology in Denver.

“Tinnitus is one of the most common hearing disorders in the world, but very little is understood about why it occurs or how to treat it,” said Zeng, a professor of otolaryngology, biomedical engineering, cognitive sciences, and anatomy and neurobiology.

“We are very pleased and surprised by the success of this therapy, and hopefully with further testing it will provide needed relief to the millions who suffer from tinnitus.”

At first, Zeng thought of treating the tinnitus with a high-pitched sound, a method called masking that is sometimes used in tinnitus therapy attempts. But he ruled out that option because of the severity of the patient's tinnitus, so an opposite approach was explored, which provided unexpectedly effective results.

After making many adjustments, the researchers created a low-pitched, pulsing sound -- described as a “calming, pleasant tone” of 40 to 100 hertz of frequency --which, when applied to the patient through a regular MP3 player, suppressed the high-pitched ringing after about 90 seconds and provided what the patient described as a high-level of continued relief.

Zeng's patient programs the low-pitched sound through his cochlear implant, and Zeng is currently studying how to apply this treatment for people who do not use any hearing-aid devices. Since a cochlear implant replaces the damaged mechanism in the ear that stimulates the auditory nerve, Zeng believes that a properly pitched acoustic sound will have the same effect on tinnitus for someone who does not use a hearing device.

Dr. Hamid Djalilian, a UCI physician who treats hearing disorders, points out that a custom sound can be created for the patients, who then can download it into their personal MP3 player and use it when they need relief.

“The treatment, though, does not represent a cure,” Zeng said. “This low-pitch therapeutic approach is only effective while being applied to the ear, after which the ringing can return. But it underscores the need to customize stimulation for tinnitus suppression and suggests that balanced stimulation, rather than masking, is the brain mechanism underlying this surprising finding.”

Music Education Improves IQ

I found this info on EduKey. Again, more confirmation that music - no matter what the medium- is a natural part of our being. It is theraputic, cleansing and beneficial to body and soul! Drumming, singing, chanting are all primal expressions of the deepest part of our spirit, and our means of connection with each other, our connection to our natural and spiritual world. Here's part of the article:

Drumming increases heart rate and blood flow just like an aerobic exercise. The process of drumming engages both the linear, (rational left brain) and the creative, (intuitive right brain). It slows the brain waves to around 8 cycles per second, the exact frequency of the earth.
Improved IQ scores can now officially be added to the growing list of benefits from playing drums. A recent study shows that playing the drums or other percussion instruments actually improves IQ scores of children.
While previous studies have hinted that musical training improves a child’s literacy and math skills, this is the first time that a study has shown that one’s intelligence level can be improved by drumming…
Among the other benefits of playing the drums are improved musical coordination and brain activity; physical therapy, and stress relief; improved social skills such as team work, self-esteem, discipline, improved abstract thought processes, a tool for creative expression, a balance for internal energy, life long enrichment, a great mood lifter, physical fitness, responsibility and a fun alternative to other less productive activities.

Stanford Symposium - Brainwave Entrainment

I'm so happy to see that there are more scientific studies being done to demonstrate the effectiveness of music and rhythm on brainwaves. Consequently, these studies show the beneficial effect of brainwave entrainment on conscious behavior. Read below how ADD is being treated by rhythmic music and sound stimulation.


Read about results from a recent symposium at Stanford:

Rhythmic music may change brain function and treat a range of neurological conditions, including attention deficit disorder and depression, suggested scientists who gathered with ethnomusicologists and musicians at Stanford's Center for Computer Research in Music and Acoustics May 13. The diverse group came together for the one-day symposium, "Brainwave Entrainment to External Rhythmic Stimuli: Interdisciplinary Research and Clinical Perspectives," to share ideas that push the boundaries of our understanding of the human musical experience.

Musicians and mystics have long recognized the power of rhythmic music. Ritual drumming and rhythmic prayer are found in cultures throughout the world and are used in religious ceremonies to induce trance states. But since the counterculture movement of the 1960s, scientists have shied away from investigating the almost mystical implications of musical rhythm, said symposium organizer Gabe Turow, a visiting scholar in the Department of Music.

"There is a growing body of neuroscientists who support the theory that if there's a physical correlate of conscious experience, it has to be happening in the brainwaves. It seems to be the only thing in your head that changes rapidly enough to explain real-time changes in consciousness," Turow said.

Music with a strong beat stimulates the brain and ultimately causes brainwaves to resonate in time with the rhythm, research has shown. Slow beats encourage the slow brainwaves that are associated with hypnotic or meditative states. Faster beats may encourage more alert and concentrated thinking.

Studies of rhythms and the brain have shown that a combination of rhythmic light and sound stimulation has the greatest effect on brainwave frequency, although sound alone can change brain activity. This helps explain the significance of rhythmic sound in religious ceremonies.

Harold Russell, a clinical psychologist and adjunct research professor in the Department of Gerontology and Health Promotion at the University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, used rhythmic light and sound stimulation to treat ADD (attention deficit disorder) in elementary and middle school boys. His studies found that rhythmic stimuli that sped up brainwaves in subjects increased concentration in ways similar to ADD medications such as Ritalin and Adderall. Following a series of 20-minute treatment sessions administered over several months, the children made lasting gains in concentration and performance on IQ tests and had a notable reduction in behavioral problems compared to the control group, Russell said.

"For most of us, the brain is locked into a particular level of functioning," the psychologist said. "If we ultimately speed up or slow down the brainwave activity, then it becomes much easier for the brain to shift its speed as needed."

Russell, whose study was funded by the U.S. Department of Education and included 40 experimental subjects, hopes to earn approval from the Food and Drug Administration to use the brainwave entrainment device as a treatment for ADD. The device uses an EEG to read brainwaves and then presents rhythmic light and sound stimuli through special eyeglasses and headphones at a slightly higher frequency than the brain's natural rhythm.

Music Therapy for Sensory Integration Dysfunction (SID)

Here's an interesting article from the Battle Creek Enquirer about Sensory Integration Dysfunction (SID) in children, and how music therapy is helping them.

Music-centered therapy helps sensitive children
Linda Jo Scott
For the Enquirer

Melanie Grafft knew her 9-year-old son Josh was a sensitive child even before he was born.

"I used to hold earphones over my belly and play music for him," she said. "When I played a certain Mozart overture, he would instantly start kicking and moving around. And after he was born, he would get fussy right away if I played that particular piece."

Josh's sensitivity was not limited to music, however. As a toddler, he hated wearing certain socks. He hated loud noises, such as sirens on fire engines. He couldn't stand for people to put their hands - or anything else - too close to his eyes. He couldn't stand to have tags on his clothing.

Even certain foods, such as mashed potatoes, mushrooms and other pizza toppings not only didn't taste good, they didn't feel good in his mouth.

When these extreme responses began to interfere with Josh's progress in school, his parents decided it was time to get some professional help and took him to the Children's Therapy Center of Battle Creek, where he was diagnosed with what is called Sensory Integration Dysfunction, or SID.

According to Teri Allen, clinical director of the Children's Therapy Center, SID "encompasses a constellation of behaviors that are seen when a child is inadequately putting together information from the senses."

According to Allen, one of the most helpful treatments for Josh - and for most children with SID - is listening to what is called "spectrally-activated music," which, she explained, "forces the ear to work differently."

Again, Josh's mother noticed a difference in his mood after he listened to particular music.

Josh also did extensive work on the Interactive Metronome, a computer-based exercise program to help a child match given rhythms.

"We try to give a child 20,000 repetitions over the course of many weeks, and afterwards we can see definite changes in their brains through various tests," Allen said.

As is often the result of the various kinds of therapy and supervised play in the clinic's colorful playroom, Josh's reading skills and handwriting improved, and since his therapy ended in May after almost a year, he has been less affected by how things sound or feel.

"Josh is a great kid with many strengths and talents," Allen said. "He was very motivated to succeed with the Interactive Metronome portion of his therapy allowing him to make significant gains. Once his sensory integration and coordination improved, he was more successful in all areas of his life."

Josh's grandmother, Janet Wigant, who lives next door to him and sees him every day, said therapy has helped Josh a lot.

"He isn't as angry as he used to be, and it's helped him in his school work," she noted. "I actually see a difference in his whole personality."

Wigant said as she looked back, she realized that Josh's mother, Melanie, suffered from some of the same problems as a child.

"Now that I know what Josh has gone through, I can look back at how loud noises, and having people touching her and not having her shoes and socks on, just right bothered Melanie as a child."

Josh's younger sister, Avrie, 5, is showing some of the same sensitivity, Melanie said, but not to the same extent as Josh.

These days, Josh is a happy, successful third-grader at Beadle Lake Elementary School.

"I miss it," he said of his days at the center. "I especially liked the playroom where I could play on the pirate ship and jump off the zip line onto the mat.

"And I got to get out of school 20 minutes early," he added with a smile.

"There are probably many children out there with similar problems, and nobody recognizes it," Wigant said. "I'm just thankful that Josh's mother had the foresight to recognize it and do something about it."

Linda Jo Scott is a freelance reporter.

Curing Vocal Nodules Naturally!

The article below addresses nodules (nodes) and polyps. Many singers undergo surgery to remove their vocal nodules, with often disastrous results. Julie Andrews, sadly, can barely squeak out a song after her vocal surgery.

Did you know that my nodes were cured simply by learning to use my voice correctly?

Read 'My Story' to see how improper voice instruction almost ruined my voice, until I found a teacher who saved my career by teaching me the right way to sing! If you're having vocal problems; have continued discomfort or sore throat when you sing, then do yourself a favor before you get nodes, and LEARN TO SING CORRECTLY! Once I learned the method that is the basis for my Integrated Voice technique, I never had a vocal problem again, and I've been singing for 20+ years.

If you're having challenges with your voice, email me and I'll personally answer any question you may have.

Here's the article from Celia Cooper, PHd that will give you some basic insight:

Vocal Fold Nodules and Polyps

What are vocal fold nodules and polyps?

Vocal fold nodules are benign growths on both vocal folds that are caused by vocal abuse.

Over time, repeated misuse of the vocal folds results in soft, swollen spots on each vocal fold that develop into harder, callus-like growths.

The nodules will become larger and more stiff the longer the vocal abuse continues.

Polyps , on the other hand, can take a number of forms and are sometimes caused by vocal abuse. Polyps appear on either one or both of the vocal folds and appear as a swelling or bump (like a nodule), a stalk-like growth, or a blister-like lesion. Most polyps are larger than nodules and may be called by other names, such as polypoid degeneration or Reinke's edema.

What will my voice sound like if I have nodules or polyps?

Nodules and polyps cause similar symptoms and include:

* Hoarseness
* Breathiness
* A "rough" voice
* A "scratchy" voice
* Harshness
* Shooting pain from ear to ear
* A "lump in the throat" sensation
* Neck pain
* Decreased pitch range
* Voice and body fatigue

What causes nodules and polyps?

Nodules are most frequently caused by vocal abuse or misuse. Polyps may be caused by prolonged vocal abuse, but may also occur after a single, traumatic event to the vocal folds, such as yelling at a concert.

Long-term cigarette smoking, hypothyroidism, and gastroesophageal reflux may also cause polyp formation. Vocal abuse takes many forms and includes:

* Allergies
* Smoking
* "Type A" personality (person who is often tense or anxious)
* Singing
* Coaching
* Cheerleading
* Talking loudly
* Drinking caffeine and alcohol (dries out the throat and vocal folds)

It has been noted that, for unknown reasons, vocal nodules occur more frequently in women between the ages of 20 and 50.

How are nodules and polyps diagnosed?

If you have experienced a hoarse voice for more than 2 to 3 weeks, you should see a physician. A thorough voice evaluation should include a physician's examination, preferably by an otolaryngologist, who specializes in voice, a voice evaluation by a speech-language pathologist, and possibly a neurological examination. The voice team will assess vocal quality, pitch, loudness, ability to sustain voicing, and other characteristics of the voice. An instrumental examination may take place, which involves inserting an endoscope into the mouth or nose to look at the vocal folds and larynx in general. A stroboscope (flashing light) may be used to watch the vocal folds as they move.

What can be done to get rid of nodules and polyps?

Nodules and polyps may be treated medically, surgically, and/or behaviorally. Surgical intervention involves removing the nodule or polyp from the vocal fold. This approach only occurs when the nodules or polyps are very large or have existed for a long time and is rare for children. Contributing medical problems may be treated to reduce their impact on the vocal folds. This includes treatment for gastroesophageal reflux, allergies and thyroid problems. Medical intervention to stop smoking or to control stress is sometimes warranted.

Voice therapy involves teaching good vocal hygiene, eliminating vocal abuses, and direct voice treatment to alter pitch, loudness, or breath support for good voicing.

Stress reduction techniques and relaxation exercises are often taught, as well.

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Adapted from text developed in 2001 by Celia Hooper, PhD, CCC-SLP

Voice and Hypnosis

Here's an interesting post from Wayne Perkin's blog. Similar to music and sound healing, hypnosis helps the participant reach a state of relaxation and clarity. There they can access higher modes of consciousness where self-healing can occur.

With hypnosis, the voice is used to put the participant into a deep, restful state.

Here's Mr. Perkin's brief history of hypnosis:

Back in ancient Egypt, hypnosis was called "healing sleep." The subject was really awake but with eyes closed and listening to a person's voice. Healing sleep was used to help people get over illnesses and mental anguish.

In the late 1700s, Fran Anton Mesmer, an Austrian, observed a Catholic Priest laying hands on a parishioner to overcome healing. Mesmer thought what was realy going on was that the person was surrounded by a magnetic field and that the Priest was sending out magnetism and that God was not really intervening in the process.

Mesmer thought that if he would use 2 large metal rods, he could create the same kind of magnetism that would help patients overcome their illnesses.

In 1792, Benjamin Franklin from the US, was called to Paris, France to observe Mesmer working on patients using the magnetized rods.

Franklin concluded that the people were using their own minds to cure themselves of illnesses. They were using their own imaginations.

This is what a hypnotist really does. He helps people use their own minds to fix what is wrong with them.

find more at: wayneperkins.blogspot.com

Music Therapy for Dogs!

I came across this blurb and thought it was indicative of the trend of upscale pet owners to go to expensive extremes when it comes to their dogs. I'll do just about anything for my doggies, but I'm really not sure that they care one way or another about spa treatments and other modalities mentioned in the excerpt below. Music therapy for pooches? Maybe.....

By Renee at smalldogsparadise.com

Bare in mind, many grooming salons these days don't operate the same way as those from the 80's or 90's. Then, groomers would just groom the dogs and the job is complete.

Nowadays many grooming salons offer spa treatments and rejuvenation and music therapy for pampered pooches.

These luxury sessions are not cheap. If you operate an upscale grooming salon in urban areas (i.e. Tokyo or New York), your customers are expected to pay anywhere from $100 to $200 for a complete doggie "makeover." I kid you not!

With so many dog owners who are willing to spend obscene money on their furry children, it's no wonder many aspiring groomers jump into this bandwagon. I'm not saying money brings all evil intentions; just some will value money over passion.

Jennifer Hudson calls American Idol Abusive

Did you know that Jennifer Hudson had been an American Idol contestant before her success in 'Dreamgirls'? She doesn't have very nice words for the American Idol experience, and I don't condone the cruelty that's employed on the show, but I would venture to say that Jennifer's current success may be a result of the exposure she got on AI??
Here's the article:

Jennifer Hudson Calls American Idol Abusive
PEOPLE MAGAZINE
THURSDAY FEBRUARY 01, 2007 08:35 AM EST


Jennifer Hudson has won Golden Globe and SAG awards and is up for an Oscar for her role in Dreamgirls – despite what she describes as an abusive experience on American Idol.

"On American Idol, you go through this mental thing; you've got to get yourself back together. You've been abused, misled and brainwashed to believe whatever they want you to think," Hudson, 25, tells the new issue of Essence.

"You become a character - became the girl in the turkey wrapping." (On one episode, she wore an unflattering outfit that earned that label.) "I just knew I had to sing my way out of it. I don't believe in looking back, and I didn't look back."

Hudson also dismisses rumors that there was tension on the Dreamgirls set between herself and costar Beyoncé Knowles. "We clicked from day one," she says.

She says she, Knowles and their fellow Dreamgirl Anika Noni Rose bonded over the fact that they're all Virgos, and all have a mole in the same spot on the left side of their necks.

"It's amazing to me that God took three different women from three different walks of life and created the Dreamgirls," Hudson says. "We were meant to be together. When you look at us, you see it's all connected. I'm loving Beyoncé."


Knowles has also dismissed feud rumors, telling reporters in December: "It's really unfortunate that everyone is saying I'm jealous of Jennifer. ... Because I'm a star they just automatically assume that I'm not humble enough to sit down and take a back seat, which I am."

Music Therapy for Young Asthmatics

Music and singing have so many intrinsic benefits! In my article "10 Ways Singing Can Change Your Life", I talk about how singing promotes deep breathing; oxygenates the blood; stimulates brain activity, and boosts a sense of well-being, among other incredible benefits. The article below by Dr. Jay Adlersberg is so exciting because it talks about helping young asthma sufferers with music therapy!

I've been working with clients with asthma for some time. Through singing therapy, (because it involves re-training the breathing mechanism, as well as becoming conscious of how you are breathing),the affect is dramatic!

If you have a question about how singing therapy can help with asthma, please feel free to contact me.

Here's the article:
Music Therapy For Young Asthma Sufferers
WABC By Dr. Jay Adlersberg

(New York-WABC, February 8, 2007) - Using music class to help treat asthmatics.

Asthma strikes children particularly hard in some areas of the Bronx and Brooklyn. Sometimes medications are the only things that keep kids happy in their daily activities. But now, thanks to financial gift from one of the Fathers of Jazz, music may be helping some young asthma sufferers.

It's an outreach program of the Louis Armstrong Center for Music and medicine at Beth Israel Medical Center. Melrose is one of three schools in the city which are part of research to see if tension release using woodwind instruments to teach breathing control and relaxation, with the help of the seashore wave drum and Native American flute, can help in controlling asthma.

"It helps them identify when they having difficulties to use these breathing techniques," said Brian Harris, of Beth Israel Medical Center.

These four young men have been taking these classes once a week for the past six months to a year. Their asthma?

"It has improved, because before I couldn't breathe that good," student Alex Calo said. "But now I have more breath to hold when I'm running and stuff."

"Now I can play more, because I have more breath," 11-year-old student Alex Acosta said. "It's better."

"I could breathe more and it makes me relax," 13-year-old student Frank Maxwell said. "So I can play a lot more than I used to do."

And giving kids back their playtime is news in this city.

The Bronx is a hotbed of asthma. The illness causes more missed days from school and more hospitalizations than any other illness in kids under 14.

The music goes beyond just illness control. As with all music, it's about feelings.

"The music, the relaxation, the tension release and the drums," 13-year-old Carlos Vega said. "You could express your feelings when you're playing it."

Coincidentally, because of an aggressive band program at the school, each of these boys already plays a wind instrument. One plays flute, the others clarinet, trombone and saxophone. No problems learning breathing control for them.

Singing and 'The Yawn'

One of my 'Seven Principles for an Integrated Voice' is "The Yawn". If you feel a tightness in your throat when you sing, and feel you have to use a lot more effort to sing high notes, you're probably suffering from a common problem in singers, a raised, or jammed larynx.

In an article by Zainab Al Naji, he states that "when we yawn, yawns consist of an expansion of the chest, descent of the diaphragm and larynx, elevation of the nasal and soft palate, downward and backward movement of the tongue, abduction of the vocal cords, and a wide opening of the mouth."

In plain-speak, simulating the beginning of a yawn simply opens your throat, lowers the larynx, relaxes the tongue, drops the jaw; all of which help to produce a warm, round, open and relaxed tone without any constriction or tension.

It feels good to sing correctly, and this is the best indicator of whether you're employing proper technique or not. If you get hoarse; have an ache in the back of your throat; have to push to get volume; have a tight jaw, or just feel any discomfort at all when you sing - you're doing something wrong.

Conversely, if your voice flows out effortlessly with beauty and ease, with no tension or exertion; if singing is easy and feels good - you're singing correctly! A very easy barometer of your progress!

Watch for Volume One of my "Joyful Singing Series" coming soon! Contact me for more information!

Cold Weather Voice Tips - U of Pittsburgh

Here are some tips from the University of Pittsburgh Voice Center:

Upper respiratory infections (URI), rhinitis, sinusitis, pharyngitis, and laryngitis, often affect the vocal cords, causing hoarseness. The best way to prevent URIs from causing a voice problem is to avoid or limit the infections. Preventing URIs can be done by maintaining proper amounts of rest and eating a healthy diet. Good nutrition helps prevent infections and allows the body to fight infections for faster recovery.

URIs frequently are transmitted through young children, especially those in daycare, and by hand-to-hand contact. Thorough and frequent handwashing and avoiding contact with sick children can prevent many winter infections.

Cold weather clothing also can help prevent an infection and other voice problems. Maintaining proper body temperature takes a lot of energy, more if you are not dressed properly for the cold temperature. Seventy-five percent of body temperature loss occurs through the head, so a warm hat can decrease temperature loss and reduce the amount of energy required to keep you warm. This saved energy can be used to fight infection. A scarf is another important way to keep your voice healthy in the winter. Wearing a scarf helps maintain your body temperature, and it can also be used to warm the air you breathe, thus preventing cold air from irritating your larynx (voice box).

HAVE YOU TRIED MY VIVA LA VOICE TONIC RECIPE? IT BOOSTS RESISTANCE!

The Aging Voice

I've recently been asked about the affects of aging on the voice. As the population of Baby Boomers increases, there's more concern about changes that occur with the voice as we age.

The voice tells a lot about a person - their state of health, state of mind, and their relative age.

The aging voice is sometimes breathy, scratchy, weak, trembling or rough. As you read the article by Sue Ellen Linville, you'll notice that there's a lot of medical and anatomical jargon that may get a bit deep for you.

In a nutshell, just know that as we age, our parts wear out!!

And when the parts wear out, vocal challenges may set it. Ain't aging grand???

There are certain elements of our respiratory system as well as elements of the vocal mechanism that begin to show the wear and tear of age, and you can hear it in the voice.

BUT HERE'S THE GOOD NEWS! Overall good health, a nutritious diet, low levels of stress, exercise and a good mental attitude will help you keep your voice in youthful, top-shape long into your senior years!

This is why exercising your voice is extremely important! In order to keep all the parts of your vocal mechanism working well, you've got to use them correctly and often. My uncle, Dick Palmer, is 81 years old, and just began singing a year ago! He loves it and it proves that a voice doesn't have to disintegrate with age.

Yes, there may be some changes in the voice, but with good vocal health habits, you can maintain your voice into old age.

If you want to keep your voice healthy and youthful, I suggest that you begin doing daily vocal and breathing exercises. This will help TREMENDOUSLY and you'll see a big difference in the tone, clarity and power of your voice.

If you have a question, or want to learn more about how to maintain your voice, please contact me. I will personally answer any question you may have.

Also, try my Viva La Voice Tonic Recipe for a healthy way to maintain your physical and vocal health! All natural and good for you!

Here are some exerpts from an article in the American Speech-Language Hearing Association Journal.

The Aging Voice

cite as:
Linville, S. E. (2004, Oct. 19). The Aging Voice. The ASHA Leader, pp. 12, 21

by Sue Ellen Linville

As the 21st century advances, senior citizens will make up an increasingly large segment of the population. In recognition of that demographic shift, researchers are developing a database of voice features that are characteristic of normal speakers from young adulthood through old age. Such a database would be invaluable to clinicians struggling to differentiate normal vocal changes with aging from pathologic vocal conditions affecting elderly patients.

Changes in Speech Production Mechanism

The respiratory system changes from young adulthood to old age. In lung tissue, loss of elasticity is considered the most significant change. Other respiratory system changes include stiffening of the thorax and weakening of respiratory muscles. These changes alter lung volumes and respiratory mechanics. While total lung volume remains unchanged in the elderly, vital capacity decreases and residual volume increases. Maximum expiratory flow rate is decreased and lung pressure is decreased. Thus, elderly speakers experience a decline in the amount of air they can move in and out of the lungs and in the efficiency with which they move air.

The larynx also undergoes age-related anatomic changes during adulthood. Glandular changes may cause drying of epithelium, which may increase stiffness of VC cover. Increased cover stiffness could increase instability of vocal fold vibration and raise fundamental frequency (F0) in elderly men.

Some investigators report progressive thickening of the epithelium with aging in both sexes. In males, thickening reportedly is progressive up to age 70, with declines thereafter. In females, thickening is described as progressive, particularly after age 70. Thickening of the laryngeal epithelium may contribute to lowering of fundamental frequency or to increased harshness of voice.

Degenerative changes in the temporomandibular joint are described, along with thinning/loss of elasticity of oral mucosa, declining salivary function, loss of tongue strength, and tooth loss.

Age-Related Voice Changes

Perhaps the voice change that has been investigated most is pitch level. Speaking changes from young adulthood to old age, but the pattern differs according to gender. In women, F0 remains fairly constant until menopause, when a drop occurs (approximately 10 Hz -15 Hz). This drop presumably results from hormonal changes that cause thickening and edema of the laryngeal mucosa. In men, F0 lowers approximately 10 Hz from young adulthood to middle age. The reason for this drop is unclear. After middle age, F0 in men rises substantially (approximately 35 Hz) into advanced old age, reaching the highest level of adulthood.

Tremor and increased hoarseness have been associated with the aged voice. Stability of F0 reportedly declines from young adulthood to old age in both men and women. In men, levels of fundamental frequency standard deviation (F0 SD) more than double between young adulthood and old age. In women, levels jump 71% over a similar period. F0 SD ranges for young and elderly speakers demonstrate little overlap, regardless of gender. In contrast, measures of jitter-the cycle-to-cycle fluctuations in the fundamental period of vocal fold vibration-overlap extensively in young and elderly speakers, especially women.

Amplitude stability also declines with aging, at least in men. Indeed, shimmer, which reflects cycle-to-cycle variation in waveform amplitude, may be a better measure than jitter of chronological aging in men's voices because shimmer levels increase independently of health and fitness variables. Age-related jitter differences disappear if health and fitness are considered.

Another voice quality linked with the aged voice is increased breathiness. While elderly men demonstrate a higher incidence of glottal gap than young men, spectral noise levels do not differ in the two groups. However, spectral noise levels increase in men in poor physiological condition, regardless of age. In contrast to men, both young and elderly women demonstrate a high incidence of glottal gap. However, young women tend to demonstrate posterior chink, while elderly women demonstrate gaps anteriorly in the glottis.

There is acoustic evidence of age-related changes in vocal resonance patterns in both men and women. Lowering of formant frequencies (more pronounced in women) suggests lengthening of the vocal tract. Altered vowel formant frequency patterns (more pronounced in men) suggests centralization of tongue position during vowel production. Altered resonance patterns in elderly speakers may result from growth of the craniofacial skeleton, lowering of the larynx in the neck and/or degenerative changes in oral structures that reduce articulatory precision.

In summary, structural and functional changes occur in the respiratory, phonatory, and supralaryngeal systems with aging. Those changes alter the voice produced by the aged mechanism. Gender differences exist both in the nature and extent of age-related changes.



Sue Ellen Linville is associate professor of speech pathology at Marquette University and the author of Vocal Aging (San Diego: Singular Publishing, 2001). She is an affiliate of Special Interest Division 3, Voice and Voice Disorders. She can be reached at sueellen.linville@marquette.edu.

Singing For Alzheimer Patients

Here's an exerpt from an article from Jane Elliot in the BBC News, about the power of singing therapy on Alzheimer's patients. Personally, I've been working with Parkinson's patients for several years now, and see dramatic results in their ability to speak more clearly and powerfully after singing therapy. Their sense of well-being and confidence increases as they are able to communicate more clearly. Their depression also lessens when they can be heard and understood with less effort or frustration. Singing seems to have the ability to bypass the speaking areas of the brain, making the ability to access lyrics and melodies more readily available to those with Alzheimer's and dementia. Singing has proven to unlock the brain and help patients re-learn communication skills.

Here's an exerpt from the article:

Clive Ballard, director of research at the Alzheimer's Society and Professor of Age Related Diseases at King's College, London, said singing as an activity did seem to help people with dementia.

"People seem to enjoy doing something jointly with other people and there is a lot of evidence that being socially engaged is good for people with dementia."

He said the part of the brain that worked with speech was different to the part that processed music, allowing those who had lost their speech to still enjoy their music.

Mr Ballard said rhythm had also been shown to be beneficial, particularly for those with diseases like Parkinson's where movement was a problem. He said listening to rhythms, even just a metronome, could help.

Winter Colds - The Straight Dope

If you've never read "The Straight Dope" syndicated column, here's a sample. The information is always witty, intelligent, and sometimes irreverent; and always entertaining! And speaking of colds, have you tried my fantastic Viva La Voice Tonic Recipe? It works miracles!

Why is winter the season for colds, flu, etc.?

31-Jan-1992

Dear Cecil:

What is it with sickness and cold temperatures? Countless times I have heard it said that winter is "cold and flu season." Mom always said to put my hat and galoshes on or I would catch pneumonia or my death of a cold. But I'm no dope. I know disease is caused by germs, not cold. From what I can remember of high school biology (not much), germs don't like cold any more than we do--in fact it kills them. So how come people get sick more often in the winter? Or do they? --Ryan Joseph, Chicago

Dear Ryan:

Seems like a reasonable question, doesn't it? Too bad there isn't a reasonable answer. All the research of the past three decades has succeeded in doing is undermining the old wives' tales about wet feet causing colds and such without putting anything in their place. Here's what we know so far, and it ain't much:

The cold, wet feet, etc., don't make you more susceptible to the common cold. Several researchers, obviously graduates of the Joseph Mengele School of Medicine, had people sit in cold tubs and whatnot for extended periods to see if they'd catch more colds. By and large they didn't.

If anything, long stretches of cold temps mean you'll catch fewer colds, presumably because the germs die off. People who "winter over" at Antarctic research stations seldom get colds except when they host germ-laden visitors from warmer climes.

We don't have indisputable evidence that winter is "cold season." Most cold sufferers don't see a doctor, and no central record is kept of the colds that doctors do hear about.

Winter is flu season, but not always. The influenza pandemic of 1918-19, which killed at least 20 million people worldwide, reached peak virulence in the most of the world during the late spring and summer and topped out in the U.S. in October.

Still, most flu outbreaks peak in January or February. Why? Figure that out and you may be hearing from the Nobel committee. Cecil's mother's theory is that cold "lowers your resistance" to disease. Sounds plausible, but during major outbreaks the winter months typically bring an equally sharp upward spike in flu in all parts of the country. Sure, Chicago gets a little brisk in the winter. But L.A.?

Something besides the cold obviously is at work. Maybe it's that even in southern California during winter folks keep the windows closed and stay indoors more, giving them a chance to exchange more germs. If we want to get really creative we may note that if you want to catch the latest bug there's nothing like going to church, and the one time people are sure to go to church is Christmas. Hence (maybe) the January outbreaks. OK, I'm reaching. But nobody knows for sure.

Respiratory infections, setting aside colds and flu, seem to be more common in winter--but some think that's because of misdiagnosis. For example, what may appear to be sinusitis--runny nose, congestion, and so on--in fact may simply a result of "cold stress." Cold stress is a direct bodily response to cold (like shivering, say), not something caused by germs.

Cold stress symptoms can last several days but eventually go away by themselves; so do most respiratory infections. Since most doctors don't send out for tests, there's no telling what the real problem was. Cold stress is most pronounced when the weather changes suddenly, which is when many folks seem to get colds. Maybe they haven't got a cold, they just are cold, if you follow me.

Psychological (as opposed to physical) stress may also play a role. A study published last year in the New England Journal of Medicine reported that the more psychological stress people were under, the more likely they were to get colds. Cecil can personally attest that cold weather and sunless days can be tough on the psyche. So maybe in the interest of stress mitigation you should pop for a week in Puerto Vallarta--and while you're at it, tell that in-your-face boss of yours to take a running jump.

--CECIL ADAMS

American Idol Criteria - How Do You Rate?

Here's a funny article from Michael Slezak that pretty much sums up the American Idol audition experience. Whether you're a fan of the show or not, I think you'll agree with his candid assessment of the audition process. Which category would you fit in?



TV Watch - from EM online
Crazy in Alabama
In Birmingham, ''American Idol'' breaks all the rules: Paula plays tough, and pretty girls get eliminated; plus, a future star name-checks Hasselhoff

All About American Idol (Series)
By Michael Slezak

There are four standard scripts for American Idol's female auditions (non-joke variety), and they can be pretty much summed up like this:

1. Hot looks, hot voice: ''You're going to Hollywood, baby!''

2. Borderline looks, hot voice: ''Congratulations, we're putting you through to the next round.'' (Be thankful.)

3. Hot looks, borderline voice: ''I dunno, I mean, that was kinda all over the place, but, hmmm...there's something I like about you. You deserve a second chance. You're going to Hollywood, baby!''

4. Borderline looks, borderline voice: Sorry, hon, not even Paula's on your side.

If you don't fall under one of those headings, it's a pretty good bet the show's producers are tossing you into the dignity dumpster reserved for the homely, the obese, the deranged, and the deluded - none of whom can sing, none of whom are traditional beauties, and all of whom can be ridiculed for a few minutes of highly rated entertainment (guilt apparently not included).

Imagine my surprise tonight, then, when right from the opening audition of the Birmingham, Ala., episode, the joke was on a pretty, blond, 19-year-old ''biological science'' major with a tiny waist, an ample bosom, and a wonky singing voice. Pity poor Erica Skye - because Simon, Randy, and Paula did not. Girlfriend was playing the skimpy-top card and raised the stakes with come-hither grins and an eager-to-please demeanor, but after launching into a shaky, breaky rendition of Simon's favorite song, ''Unchained Melody,'' not even the flirty Brit had the urge to indulge; instead he described Erica's performance as ''never-ending torture.'' By the time she embarked on an unsolicited second number, even Saint Paula lost her patience, retreating stage left and looking desperately for something - maybe some earplugs, maybe a security guard, or quite possibly a Taser.

Any which way, Erica-s crash-burn set the tone for an unusual evening of Idol. There was Paula labeling handsome Bernard Williams II as ''completely off-key'' on his rendition of ''Rock With You,'' while Simon and Randy played good cops and gave him a not-quite-deserved golden ticket. Later in the show, Paula again took the lead on a critique, telling wide-eyed Jamie Lynn Ward - who wins this season's Kellie Pickler Trophy for most alarming audition-round sob story - that her voice went nasal when she went in for the heavy lifting on Christina Aguilera's ''Reflection.'' (That said, the kid did have a pretty tone, though it'd be a shocker if she made it past Hollywood.) And later, Nichole Gatzman, a comely teen whose rendition of Bonnie Raitt's ''Something to Talk About'' showcased a voice at least as good as Ward's, got an unceremonious heave-ho from Randy and Simon because...well, just because.

Meanwhile, Chris Sligh, the love child of Jack Osbourne and Sideshow Bob, got Randy howling with his joke about wanting to move David Hasselhoff to tears, then elicited what may have been Simon's most genuine smile of the season following an affecting take on Seal's ''Kiss From a Rose.'' Not only that, the kid's exit-interview comment that Paula ''crumbled in my chubby little hands'' was a refreshing break from the bland therapy-speak most Idol contestants spout into the microphones when they're not singing. Even if he wasn't blessed with that killer voice, Chris' personality makes him a reasonable top 12 bet.

I'm not convinced we saw any other potential finalists tonight. Tatiana McConnico made my day by choosing Aretha's awesomely awesome ''I Never Loved a Man (the Way I Love You),'' but despite a powerhouse voice, she sounded a little too rushed, and acted a little too naive to handle the massive wave of pressure headed her way. Katie Bernard's version of ''A House Is Not a Home,'' meanwhile, was perfectly acceptable, and I wouldn't have even had trouble with her high-pitched speaking voice - if she'd used it for good, not evil. In other words, it's cute when my four-year-old niece squeals and dances when she's on a sugar rush, but such behavior elicits far less charitable feelings coming from a married woman of 19.

And speaking of charity, when it comes to tonight's self-aware train wrecks (''look how crazy I can act'' bird lady Margaret Fowler and ''look how sassy I can act'' Brandy Patterson, who committed heinous crimes against ''Like a Virgin''), I'm following that homespun rule about not saying anything at all if you don't have anything nice to say. Well, actually, that's sort of a fib. It's not really about kindness; it's just that I set my kitchen timer when I started writing this column, and (hooray!) the ladies' respective 15 minutes are already up.

What do you think? Were you particularly impressed by any of the contestants who were shown getting golden tickets tonight? Were you impressed with Paula's performance? And, like me, are you ready to toss the audition shows in the box to the left and let the real competition start in Hollywood?
Posted Jan 31, 2007

World Sound Healing Day

WHEN: February 14, 2007, join the Sound Healers Association and thousands of people throughout the planet as they tone an"AH" together for five minutes during that day, projecting the energy of Light & Love throughout the Planet. You will actually experience generating a field of transformational energy as this occurs. We have found that creating a Global Sacred Sound any time within a 24 hour period on the planet will create a coherent waveform that will affect the entire Earth. Therefore, any time you feel guided to sound for Planetary Peace on February 14th is a good time! In addition, local toning groups will be occurring throughout the Earth at various times during that day with the intention of assisting planetary consciousness through sound. There will also be several global toning events occurring via the Internet during that day, including at noon Eastern Time on www.healthylife.net and at 9 PM ET on www.allonenow.org.

WHY: To project peace throughout the planet.

What better way to celebrate this joyous day of Valentine's Day then to project Peace to Mother Earth and generate peaceful energy throughout the planet with sound!

Sound coupled with intention has the ability to heal and transform. We will sound an "AH" sending a heart wave of Sound that will resonate throughout the planet. Now is the time for you to be part of the Celestial Choir and resonate together for World Sound Healing Day. We can create major positive shifts on our beloved planet. Through sounding together we will make a difference.

HOW: Sound the heart sound "AH" for 5 minutes. We will simply sound an "AH" filled with the intention of Peace and Love for 5 minutes at your local noon time. The "AH" is a universal, non-denominational heart sound that when projected with focused energy is extremely powerful and effective.


AND: Pass this message on. If it's appropriate, forward this announcement about this event to your mailing list.

Tell your friends and loved ones to join our Celestial Choir and help bring peace to the planet.

There will be sound healing events throughout the world. Previous World Sound Healing Days were extraordinarily successful. We truly made a difference to the planet with our Sound, our Light and Our Love.

Rock Star Camp!

Here's an article from The Independent about everyday folks living their passion for music! I've been advocating music camps for years. As noted in this article, they are usually a life-changing experience for those who attend. For more on the adult music camp experience see my article, "A Baby Boomer Goes To Camp". And if you'd like to come to camp with veteran, Pro musicians, check out what Viva La Voice has to offer!

Here's an exerpt from the article by Louise Jury:

Wannabe Rockers Join Stars At Music Camps
By Louise Jury, Arts Correspondent, The Independent
Published: 29 January 2007

It sounds like the ultimate present for a man in a mid-life crisis - the chance to take the stage with some of the gods of rock 'n' roll.

After running a summer camp for musical teenagers, Mike Hurst created the RockMasters weekend in a country house near Tiverton in response to pleas from their parents that he do something for them. "I had various parents saying, 'It's wasted on the kids. Why don't you do it for adults?" Hurst said.

The grown-ups get catering from Chris Barber, formerly chef to Prince Charles at Highgrove, and clay pigeon shooting in a package retailing at £750 a head.

The rougher end of rock'n'roll it ain't. But the list of those signing up - from lawyers and businessmen to mothers - suggests that regardless of education or career success, in the era of X Factor and Pop Idol, everyone secretly wants to be a rock 'n' roll star.

Hurst said: "They'll all get individual attention and they get to play in the house band. It may attract people like the well-to-do in the City in a mid-life crisis kind of thing, but I think all the people will have one thing in common - they just love trying to play music."

And part of the pleasure was seeing the campers - who in America have ranged from a 17-year-old drummer to the president of an airline - enjoying themselves.

"It was life-changing for some of them," David Firshof (who presented The Band and The Monkees) said. "And they improve tremendously from the moment they sign up. They're given a list of songs they should prepare and they get so excited they start to improve straight away. Their passion comes out."

Are You Speaking Correctly?

Norman D. Hogikyan, M.D., F.A.C.S., who heads the University of Michigan's Vocal Health Center says, "many people take their voices for granted, and don't seek help until a problem with their voice starts interfering with their life. For people whose careers revolve around speaking, such as teachers, salespeople, clergy and receptionists, untreated voice problems can greatly interfere with their work."

Are you speaking correctly? Vocal coaching isn't just for singers anymore. In fact, more and more professionals from all walks of life are realizing the importance of safeguarding their voices while boosting their level of success. For many 'everyday' people in the workforce, their voice IS their instrument, and if damaged or impaired, they can't work!

During these cold winter months, give your voice some extra TLC with my Viva La Voice Tonic Recipe. It sooths tired, sore throats and helps with the healing process. Find it here.
Be Healthy!

ASLHA Association Advice - Voice Strain

Here's some advice from the American Speech-Language Hearing Association:

"Pipe down, please! - voice strain prevention
Healthy & Natural Journal, Oct, 2000


Trying to carry on a conversation at a noisy ball game or amusement park may strain your voice. In an effort to prevent laryngitis and vocal cord damage, the American Speech-Language Hearing Association is offering the following advice:

* Avoid yelling. If you feel strain in your neck or throat, you're too loud.

* Avoid constant throat clearing and coughing.

* Don't try to talk over noise.

* Avoid irritation caused by smoking or drinking alcohol.

* Drink lots of clear liquids."

If you have a dry, winter throat, or have already strained your voice, you've got to try my VIVA LA VOICE TONIC RECIPE! It's fantastic. GET IT HERE

Voice Beautification

I've been advocating Voice Coaching for years. Anybody, from a salesperson, to a trainer, to a bank teller can benefit from developing a more pleasing voice. Whether you like it or not, others judge you by the volume, tone and quality of your voice. Here's an exerpt from an article by Jennifer Saranow in the Wall Street Journal that confirms the growing trend in Voice Beautification for the common man!

"Speech therapy used to be for stutterers, lispers and other people with medically diagnosed language problems. But in a culture increasingly devoted to personal trainers, self-help books and cosmetic surgery, a new outlet for self-betterment is emerging: the personal voice trainer.

People have been wincing when they hear themselves speak since the dawn of the recording. Common complaints run the familiar litany of too high-pitched, too monotone, too nasal, too much like the opposite sex. For women, they often include: too shrill, too "valley girl," or too faint. For men, familiar grievances are too gravely or too weak.

Voice experts say that many voice "problems" are caused by unbalanced talking, or using too much of one part of the voice. (The components of the voice include breathing, vocal chord vibration and the sound of the voice as it resonates out of the mouth, nose and throat.) For example, hypernasality results from letting sound resonate too much through the nose. A gravely or harsh tone comes from excessive tension in the throat area.

The voice "is very similar conceptually to a person’s knee," says Joseph Stemple, a speech pathologist at the Blame Block Institute for Vocal Analysis and Rehabilitation in Dayton, Ohio, and author of a well-known voice pathology textbook. "It can become strained and weakened and unbalanced and you can do direct exercise to enhance it."

The key behind most voice exercise programs is teaching patients to find their "true" sound when emphasis isn’t on one part of the voice over others. Patients learn to breathe from their stomach and let the voice carry more fully out of their mouth. They learn to feel whether they are exerting their mouth, nose or throat too much when talking. They use relaxing exercises to relieve tension that may be putting emphasis too much on one area.

Patients say that the end result is a better voice and more- effortless talking -- but getting there takes a lot of work. Learning to talk with a "true" voice can mean anything from figuring out how to hold your tongue while speaking to breathing differently -- movements that feel weird and unnatural at first. It takes extensive practice to turn such changes into habit.

"The results are largely dependent on the amount of energy that they are willing to put into their practice," says Kate DeVore, a speech pathologist from Chicago, who estimates that personal training of normal voices now accounts for about half of her practice."

If you want to change your voice, look for my 'JOYFUL SINGING SERIES" coming soon! Based on my SEVEN PRINCIPLES FOR AN INTEGRATED VOICE, this series will give you the secrets of VOCAL MASTERY! Sign up for my monthly Voicegram to get updates on this fantastic product!

Singing Is Good For Seniors!

According to reports from the National Association of Music Merchants, picking up singing, or playing an instrument after dropping it earlier in life leads to such health benefits as an enhanced immune system, stress reduction and staving off depression and loneliness in older adults.

It's never too late to enjoy the benefits of music!

A Night at Fess Parker's

Thursday nights at Fess Parker's Wine Country Inn in Los Olivos are special. Fess and his wife Marcie host an evening of music. Lots of their local celebrity friends drop in; Fess is the MC and also sings a bit, and Marcie usually ends the show with a few songs.

Most of us baby boomers will remember Fess Parker in the Disney series 'Davy Crockett'. I bet you can still sing the theme song, "Davy, Davy Crockett, King of the wild frontier!" Fess was smart, and after his acting days, he got into real estate and development. He now has a beautiful winery in the Santa Ynez Valley among other resort properties.

My uncle often sings on Thursday nights; oh, did I mention that my uncle is 81 and has a beautiful voice! Singing is his passion, and he usually doesn't miss the Wine Country Inn gathering. Fess asked me to sing a couple of songs, which was fun. It's a nice atmosphere in the lobby with a glowing fire, couches; you feel like you're entertaining in the Parker's living room.

If you go visiting the Santa Ynez Valley, don't miss all the spectacular wineries in that area. Stay at the Wine Country Inn, it's lovely, cozy and you can drop in and sing a few tunes! And don't forget to say hi to Fess for me!

Find out about the Wine Country Inn and the Fess Parker Winery

Recording with Norman Thalheimer

While in California I spent several days recording with my dear friend and collaborator, Norman Thalheimer. Norman and I wrote music and lyrics for "Marilyn, An American Fable", which ran on Broadway at the Minskoff Theater. It's funny how many people loved that show.

I recently performed at a benefit for the Boys and Girls Club with Nyle Steiner (inventor of the EVI), and Richard Souther (4 time Grammy nominee), here in Utah where I sang "I'll Send You Roses" from 'Marilyn'. A man in the audience had lived in NYC and saw the show, which is always gratifying. I guess you can think of your art as a seed carried on the wind. You never know who has been touched by what you do, and where that little seed may end up, hopefully making a difference in the world.

While in So. California Norman and I recorded 15 songs. Some of them were from "Marilyn, An American Fable", and others were tunes we'd written through the years, but never got around to recording. So I'm excited to get them finished and mixed, and make them available for those fans of the musical (there was never a Cast Album done of 'Marilyn').

We also recorded some of our wacky, quirky, theatrical stuff. If you like weird, silly, punky music, hear some sound samples of our stuff (the other side of Beth Lawrence!) by Freud's Funhouse at: http://cdbaby.com/cd/twohandsmouth

For those of you who have my lullaby CD, "Land of Sleepytime", this is definitely NOT music for toddlers or children! These are crazy stories about aliens, peeping toms and other assorted weirdnesses!

Jim O'Neil & Rubicon Theater

On my recent trip to L.A. I spent the day with Jim O'Neil, Artistic Director of Rubicon Theater in Ventura. Jim and I grew up together in Santa Barbara, were at Cal Arts at the same time, and were 'roomies' in our early professional days in L.A. So we had lots of history to dredge up, and bunches of laughs recalling some of our 'finer' moments.

Jim and his wife, Karyl Lynn Burns have been instrumental in creating a fantastic venue in Ventura, California that features some of the best talent around. They've also been wonderfully successful in generating loyal support from both sponsors and the public. With the Endowments for the Arts and governmental support for the Arts dwindling, building an enthusiastic subscriber base is crucial, and not always easy to do. Rubicon uses seasoned professionals for their shows who love the convenience of being just an hour's drive from L.A.
Here's what the Times said about Rubicon:

"Rubicon Theatre Company moves the local stage to a level so many for so long had hoped for... the best theatre around."
Los Angeles Times

The day I visited, Rubicon was premiering a new show 'Back Home Again - a John Denver Holiday Concert', so I stayed for the opening and after-show party. What a great group of supporters! This photo is Jim and I at the party. Note his 'gentleman cowboy' shirt; everyone was in the John Denver rustic look, except myself, donning a Utah snow coat! Hardly needed in warm California.

I wish Jim, Karyl Lynn and their staff continued success. Read more about Rubicon at: http://www.rubicontheater.org

The Incredible Thoracic Diaphragm!

I was so thrilled to see the vocal and breathing mechanism in 3D at 'Bodies The Exhibit' while in Las Vegas! The first principle for great singing in my 'Seven Principles for An Integrated Voice' booklet is all about BREATHING correctly for proper support while singing or speaking.

So I was really excited to see the diaphragm in all its glory, and was surprised to see that it wasn't just a thin strip of muscle, but a huge muscle shelf that separates the thoracic cavity ( lungs and heart) from the abdominopelvic cavity (liver, stomach, intestines, etc.). The diaphragm is King!!

I have always advocated maintaining a soft belly so that the diaphragm can drop down (in its relaxed state it's shaped like a dome), allowing more air into the lungs. To actually see this giant muscle makes it so clear to me that what I teach has complete credence! I tell my students to think of the diaphragm much like a trampoline or strong platform that supports the tone, giving it strength and volume. When you actually see that it physically mirrors this image, that it is a muscle shelf that is designed for SUPPORT, it's incredibly exciting and gratifying!

When you breathe, your diaphragm area should expand. This is a hard concept for lots of singers to get, but you need to physically allow the diaphragm to drop and expand. You never want to 'push' the diaphragm or abdominals out, this creates tension, and with The Integrated Voice method, you don't want tension, anywhere!

Now that I've seen it (in the flesh, so to speak), I fully understand, and better realize, how to enlighten my clients about how to envision their breathing mechanism. I'm reminded again, it's all about the diaphragm! Not a lowly strip of tissue that supports the lungs and heart, but the King of muscles that stretches and expands to give you the glorious feeling of security in supporting your tone.

So honor your incredible diaphragm! By using the breathing mechanism correctly, you'll discover the miracle of great vocal support that will allow you to trust your voice, giving you the strength and confidence to be a great singer and dynamic speaker.

All hail the mighty diaphragm!!

If you'd like to know more about my Integrated Voice Method, see my article "My Story" http://www.vivalavoice.com

Guttman & Guttwoman!

While in L.A. I visited with my long-time friends, Gary Guttman and Rebecca Mills. We had a great dinner at the quaint, cozy Los Angeles restaurant icon, The Tam O'Shanter.

Gary Guttman is an incredible artist, musician and composer. He's working on an ultra-secret instructional product that I'll tell you about as soon as it's ready for release. From what he told me about it, it's something every composer is going to want to have! More news on that later.

Gary also creates incredible art. He runs the gamut of styles, but always with a slightly off-kilter, kooky slant. I love him!

Rebecca Mills is one of my dearest friends. In the years that I've known her she has astounded me with her art, her humanity, and her flamboyant apparel! (See photo of us at the Tam!) In fact, one of my most revered pieces of 'outerwear' was a gift from Rebecca. Once a year, I'll don my RED, SHEARED BEAVER coat with matching fur ear-warmer, and go Christmas caroling here in snowy Utah. I always think of Rebecca while staying warm, cuddly and oh-so-elegant in my gorgeous red fur. I must add here that I don't advocate the killing of animals for their pelts, but I will always cherish Rebecca's fur when I wear it on that one night a year.

For more information on Gary Guttman's music and art:
http://www.garyguttman.com

Bodies The Exhibit!

While in Vegas I had the rare experience of going to the 'Bodies, The Exhibit'. This fascinating display of real cadavers, elegantly preserved, and showing the body in various layers and poses is a MUST SEE. I was just enthralled seeing the muscles, internal organs, blood vessels, and bones in 3D rather than in a flat, text book illustration.

The human body is such a miracle! After spending hours in the exhibit, I was in awe of my body and the unbelievable systems that make it work. I also wondered how any of us make it past 20 with poor diet, injuries, bumps, bruises, illnesses etc. Somehow this incredible computer-machine we walk around in all day, and take very much for granted, manages to transcend our usually terrible treatment.

I left with a new found respect for this physical vehicle, and vowed to take better care of it!

The body is so incredibly delicate (the spinal cord looks like a bundle of silken, angel hair pasta!), yet so amazingly strong and resilient. I also pondered at who, or what, created such an amazing electro-magnetic machine.

Some folks might think that this 'Bodies' exhibit is creepy. Not in the least. It is so educational and awe-inspiring, and I learned so much about how all our 'parts' fit together so neatly!

Children, especially should see this to gain a better appreciation of their magnificent bodies, and hopefully treat their bodies with more respect and healthy habits.

'Bodies' has been around the world and may be winding down the 'global tour', but if this exhibit comes to a city near you DON'T MISS IT! It's still showing in major cities in the U.S. and around the world.

Go see it! http://www.bodiestheexhibit.com

Vegas - L.A. Tour

What a great tour of Vegas, L.A. and Santa Barbara! It's hard to imagine that I was walking on the beach in shorts in 77 degree weather just a couple of weeks ago, when the high here today in Utah is going to be around 26!

Las Vegas is always an adventure. I sang for the Center for Positive Living with their wonderful band, then did a 'Joyful Singing! Workshop' for an enthusiastic group. If you're ever in Vegas on Sunday, go hear Rev. Cynthia Clair for a fantastically inspiring message! For more info: http://www.thecenterlv.org/

anais nin quote

"And the day came when the risk to remain tight in a
bud was more painful than the risk it took to blossom."

Anais Nin, French born, American Author of novels
and short stories, 1903-1977

Volare with Tuba

Okay. Most of us haven't thought of the elegant tuba as the most versatile of instruments. However, my friend, and fabulous tuba player, Ginger Bruner recently dazzled me when I dropped in on her gig in Vegas, playing Italian favorites.

Here's the fun part; the tuba, (it seems all so logical now) was carrying the bass line! OF COURSE! I think my favorite was Ginger holding the trio together on 'Three Coins In the Fountain'!

Ginger's been known to have some of the weirdest tuba gigs in the world; in fact, I think she seeks them out! Recently she played tuba with a rock band!

I have a newfound respect for the often maligned, and under-appreciated toooba.

Above is a photo of Ms. Bruner (who's also in the Broadcaster's Hall of Fame in Vegas) at the Italian Wine Bar gig. (I suggest the Talbot 'Sleepy Hollow' Chardonnay. It goes very well with tuba played Sicilian style)!

Las Vegas Workshop and Sushi Buffet!

Even though I lived in Vegas for many years, I'm always amazed when I come back to this wacky city! I've seen Elvis twice; Marilyn Monroe only once (she was doing some shopping at Trader Joe's!)

What's great about this place is that people come here to reinvent themselves. It's kind of like an early gold rush town - you can be anything or anyone, and NOBODY CARES!

Last Sunday I sang at The Center for Positive Living, then did my "Joyful Singing!" workshop afterwards. One of the participants said "I increased my range by AN OCTAVE!" I love hearing stuff like that! Once you let go and release your voice, great things happen.

When in Vegas I always eat at Makino where you get all you can eat sushi, seafood and everything else under the sun. Isn't my first plate beautiful?? I ate my fill of the salmon sushi.

Hey! My "INTEGRATED VOICE, VOCAL MASTERY SERIES" just rolled out! In Volume One, The Basics, you get 1) a vocal mastery exercise CD 2) The Seven Principles for an Integrated Voice Booklet 3) a BONUS CD - Viva La Voice Tips!

It'll be online soon, but you can pre-order; just send me an email or watch the website for more info!

My client, Ms. Sr. Utah!

Here's a great photo of my client, Janet Seamons, Ms. Sr. Utah! I was there to cheer Janet on at the national pageant for Ms. Sr. America that was held in Las Vegas on November 11th at the Imperial Palace.

What a great event to see gorgeous women (60 +) who are talented, articulate and incredibly beautiful! It was hard to believe that any of the women were over 40 - they all looked great.

Janet was in the top 10, and also won the highest honor of the night, a $5,000.00 scholarship for her favorite charity!

I love coaching pageant contestants; it's all about revealing that confident, authentic self, and learning how to get your message, talent and humanity across to the judges and audience.

Congratulations, Janet Seamons, Ms. Sr. Utah!!

Santa Barbara Bound!

On this mini tour coming up beginning Friday, I'll be heading to Santa Barbara, California. I grew up in SB and love it so much; this will be a great 'homecoming'.

For anyone fortunate enough to be living in the TriCounties area, I'll be singing at the Center of the Heart in Santa Barbara on November 19th. See my 'upcoming events' on the website.

Drop by and see me! Can't wait to see the ocean and smell the salty-sea-air!

Voluntary Simplicity

My October Voicegram "A Life On Fire!" talked about finding fulfillment in our complicated and materialistic Western Society. After reading the Voicegram, my friend Dan Miller, from Seattle gave me a great tip, 'check out Voluntary Simplicity.' You may want to do the same if you're searching for a more simple, fulfilling life. After googling Voluntary Simplicity I came across Linda Breen Pierce's article which will give you a good idea of this wonderful concept. I believe that when you're living an authentic life you are so 'filled' that you don't need a bunch of 'stuff'. Easy to say, difficult to do. It's a quest, and as Ms. Breen Pierce says 'a lifelong journey.' Happy journey to you all! - Beth

What is Voluntary Simplicity ~
by Linda Breen Pierce



Voluntary simplicity calls into question North American society's tendency to equate money and material possessions with the good life. Proponents of simplicity as a way of life reject the notion that our life goal should be to amass as much material wealth and prestigious accomplishments as we possibly can. Their lifestyles tend to involve patterns of working less, wanting less and spending less.

This way of life cannot be strictly defined. It means different things to different people. What may be a simple, enriching life for one person could be a life of deprivation and suffering for another.

Simplicity can best be achieved by paring your life down to its essentials--those things, activities and relationships you either truly need or genuinely cherish.

Simplicity involves unburdening your life, and living more lightly with fewer distractions that interfere with a high quality life, as defined uniquely by each individual. You will find people living simply in large cities, rural areas and everything in between.

Some of the simplicity values that are important to people who live simply are:

1. Limiting material possessions to what is needed and/or cherished.
2. Meaningful work, whether paid or volunteer, ideally spending no more than 30 hours per week (in order to make time for items # 3 to 12, below).
3. Quality relationships with friends and family.
4. Joyful and pleasurable leisure activities.
5. A conscious and comfortable relationship with money.
6. Connection to community, but not necessarily in formal organizations.
7. Sustainable consumption practices.
8. Healthy living practices, including exercise, adequate sleep, and nutritious food.
9. Practices that foster personal growth, an inner life, or spirituality, such as yoga, meditation, prayer, religious ceremonies, journal writing, and spiritually-related reading.
10. Connection to nature-delighting in spending time in nature regularly.
11. Aesthetic beauty in personal environment.
12. Living in harmony with values and integrity.

Living simply does not require adherence to a rigid set of rules, but rather it challenges the individual to live consciously and deliberately. Simplicity is not a destination. It is a life long journey that is not always easy, but ultimately deeply satisfying.

Linda Breen Pierce is the author of Choosing Simplicity: Real People Finding Peace and Fulfillment in a Complex World and Simplicity Lessons: A 12-Step Guide to Living Simply. She can be reached via email or at (831) 626-8486 (Pacific time).

Copyright 2003, Linda Breen Pierce. You may reprint this article, provided you include the byline at the end of the article.

Las Vegas Workshop

If you live in Vegas, or know someone who does, don't miss my "Joyful Singing" workshop at the Center for Positive Living on NOVEMBER 12TH, 12:00-2:00 PM!

You'll learn all my singing secrets, and also get rid of any fears and phobias you have about your voice.

Get more info:
http://www.vivalavoice.com

See you there! Only $15 if you register early.

Lawrence Wins Zion's Bank Grant!

I'm so excited! I applied for a 'Smart Women' Grant from Zion's Bank, and got the Grant for my program, 'Project Treasure Box'. This will really help me help others. Here's the Press Release about the Grant and Project Treasure Box:

MIDWAY BUSINESS OWNER AWARDED ZION'S 'SMART WOMEN' GRANT

Performing Arts Coach to Help Women In Transition with Project Treasure Box


SALT LAKE CITY, Utah; October 24, 2006 - Beth Lawrence, CEO of the Midway-based company Viva La Voice, was one of 7 women from Utah awarded a 'Smart Women' grant at Zion's Bank Smart Women, Smart Money conference on October 11 in Salt Lake City. Lawrence applied for the Smart Women grant to help launch her Project Treasure Box which will give women who are re-entering the workforce, and are facing challenges financially, emotionally or physically, the opportunity to have private Integrated Voice and job interview coaching sessions at no charge.

"Smart Women" grants are provided to women who excel in a variety of categories; promote the empowerment of women; and emphasize collaboration between women entrepreneurs and non-profit entities supporting women.

Lawrence is thrilled to have been awarded the Smart Women Grant which will help her better facilitate Project Treasure Box coaching sessions. "I want to give women who may have lost hope a positive, life-changing experience that will help them get their life and confidence back, and show them that they can be successful, strong and self-sufficient. I've had my own struggles, which have taught me that self-confidence is the key to overcoming every obstacle. I've been a small business owner and independent contractor in a very difficult business (music), and know the importance of having someone believe in you," says Lawrence.

"I appreciate that Zion's believed in me and Project Treasure Box," says Lawrence. "I want to share what I've learned, and enrich others who could use some encouragement."

Zion's Bank gave grants up to $3,000 to women in business who empower, support and educate women in achieving financial independence.

"We developed the new Smart Women Grants to help bolster the efforts of everyday heroines who strengthen our communities in so many ways through their various talents," said Lori Chillingworth, manager of the Women's Financial Group.

Beth Lawrence is the only expert in the country teaching The Integrated Voice(tm) method, a holistic approach to voice coaching and therapy honoring the connection of body, mind and spirit. For over 15 years, Beth has been helping people all over the United States rediscover the joy of singing, performing, and living their Big Dream. "I love developing the brilliance in others!," states Lawrence, "and being able to give back some of what I've learned in my career is very fulfilling."


Lawrence's voice can be heard on numerous national jingles and soundtracks. Her CD's have garnered awards from Parent's Magazine, Billboard Magazine, the American Song Festival and L.A. Jazz Scene Magazine. An award-winning singer, Beth has appeared in major showrooms and concert venues in the U.S., Canada and Latin America. Singer/Composer Lawrence has written music and lyrics for Marilyn an American Fable, a musical that ran on Broadway at the Minskoff Theater in New York. Most recently she wrote book, lyrics and music for The Journey Home, which ran as part of the 2002 Cultural Olympiad.

Viva La Voice is a Company offering voice coaching; voice therapy for Parkinson's patients; songwriting and performing arts training; and a catalog of original compositions and training products.

To learn more about Beth Lawrence and Project Treasure Box, see http://www.vivalavoice.com

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A Life On Fire!

"Nothing sparkles like a life on fire. And there is no greater luster or luxury than feeling at peace in your soul." Tama Kieves

Thank you, Tama ("This Time I Dance!", a great book) for this great quote. It seems that there's a cross-generational 'mid life crisis' that is causing people to become increasingly uncomfortable with their lives these days. Time is fleeting; every day seems to fly faster, and many of us are questioning, as a friend of mine asked 'are we losing time, or losing ourselves?'

We've been led down a material path that brainwashes us into thinking we need more, newer, and bigger 'things'. Suddenly, though, all those material pursuits are leaving us with less time and more frustration. I've often wondered how it would feel to be free of all my 'stuff'; to fly freely anywhere, anytime, for any reason without the terrible burden of carrying around all my memorabilia, inherited china and purchased furniture. Ahhhhh, the freedom of it all!

I think Life is calling to us all to remember 'you can't take it with you, and it's slowing you down!' Attachments of any kind keep us stuck, and more and more people are feeling incredibly rut-bound. Do you feel like the movie 'Groundhog Day'? That you get up and repeat the same boring routine, ending the day wondering what you did that enriched yourself or others? Remember that the same actions produce the same results!

This past weekend I cleared out my closet. It feels fantastic. I've been carrying around clothes that I bought literally 15 years ago! Wow, talk about baggage. I can't wait to get rid of more clutter; it's so freeing!

If you feel like you're losing time; that you're not leading the fulfilled life you dream of; that you're off-purpose, then it's time for a total life makeover! Change your living space, change your diet, change your habitual thought patterns, and rediscover those dusty old dreams laying at the bottom of your closet (underneath those brand new shoes you've never worn - but they were on sale)!

If time IS speeding up, then all the more reason to spend your time doing something you love. All the money and things in the world can't compare to a life chock full of memorable experiences. As Tama Kieves says "Nothing sparkles like a life on fire." Amen, sister!

New Moms - Get some sleep!

If you're a new Mom, here's a tip for you: You'll probably get a lot more sleep if you play or sing lullabies to your baby! The soothing music will calm your baby and help your baby, and YOU get some sleep!

Here's what folks have said about my National Parenting Publications Gold winning lullaby CD LAND OF SLEEPYTIME...lullabies for the heart and soul:

"Your music has been a part of our daughter's bedtime routine for the past four years. It has been a wonderfully soothing way to end our day, as we rock in the calmness of your songs. Thank you for touching our hearts." -Marlene Galiszewski

It's been proven that music calms and sooths; but did you know that music also helps your baby develop important neural pathways in the brain?

Do you want to listen to LAND OF SLEEPYTIME in Itunes?? Go here:
http://phobos.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewAlbum?playListId=138183872

"Beth has such a beautiful and soothing voice. With three energetic and growing boys, we really need a winding down time at the end of the day and this CD really does the trick." -Renee Marrs

If LAND OF SLEEPYTIME works for three little boys, it will work for you!

"I recently had a son named Matthew and he has been listening to your Lullaby CD since I was pregnant with him :-) Well, now he LOVES it, and it relaxes him and he goes right to sleep! Your voice is beautiful and I just wanted you to know how much we both love and appreciate the CD." -Rebecca Olson

You can get this terrific baby sleep aid on my website (products) or go directly to CD Baby and get a good night's sleep RIGHT NOW! Here's the link:
http://cdbaby.com/cd/bethlawrence

Do you have a favorite LAND OF SLEEPYTIME success story? Share it with me! Or post a review on CD Baby to help other moms get some sleep!

Scotsman Guide Features My 'Tip of the Month'

The National Mortgage publication, Scotsman Guide is featuring my 'Tip of the Month'in their October issue! This is exciting! Below is a press release:

To Get Ahead - Stand Still

Scotsman Guide, A National Mortgage Publication - Features Utah Business Coach's 'Tip of the Month' in October Issue



MIDWAY, Utah, Oct. 7th, 2006 - Beth Lawrence, CEO of Viva La Voice, lends her expert voice to Scotsman Guide's October issue with her 'Tip of The Month' - Stand Still! This monthly feature offers quick, practical suggestions for professionals in the Mortgage and Banking business. According to Lawrence's 'Tip of The Month', there's power in standing still, especially for trainers, speakers and educators.

"Most speakers are shocked when I tell them to just stand still and deliver their talk," Lawrence says. When coaching speakers and singers, Lawrence makes sure that the message takes center stage, not the messenger. She continues, adding, "Everybody thinks they have to move around to hold their audience's interest, but it's really just the opposite! Unless you're moving for a reason, pacing or habitual gestures are a distraction, and take away from what you're saying. The audience can't concentrate on your content when they're distracted by your inconsequential movement."

"The Scotsman Guide's 'Tip of The Month' has to be 75 words or less," says Lawrence, "so just like the professional speakers that I train, the 'tip' has to be concise and to the point!" she adds. Scotsman Guide is the leading resource for mortgage originators and is published nationally every month in a residential, commercial and online edition. Scotsman Guide goes to over 64,000 Mortgage Originating offices in the U.S. each month. "It's fantastic to be featured in a National publication like Scotsman Guide," says Lawrence, "especially when their past 'Tip' contributors have included world-famous trainers like Tom Hopkins."

What's the point of Lawrence's 'October Tip'? The coach, voice therapist, singer/songwriter says, "Just focus on your message, and have the confidence to stand still when you have something important to say!"


Viva La Voice is a company based in Midway, Utah, offering private voice coaching, therapy for Parkinson's patients, workshops in the performing arts, and music camps for women.
To read the entire article, The Power of Standing Still, go to: http://www.VivaLaVoice.com/articles.htm


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To loosen my heart

This is an incredibly beautiful quote from Dawna Markova that I wanted to share. I especially like the line 'I will not die an unlived life.'

Is there something you want to do, but have put it off? The time is now, DO IT.

Here's Markova's lovely thought:

"I will not die an unlived life.
I will not live in fear
of falling or catching fire.
I choose to inhabit my days,
to allow my living to open me,
to make me less afraid,
more accessible,
to loosen my heart
until it becomes a wing,
a torch, a promise.
I choose to risk my significance,
to live so that which came to me as seed
and that which came to me as blossom,
goes on as fruit."

-Dawna Markova

Carlos y Cristina!

Here's a photo of my friend, Carlos Murguia, 2 time Grammy nominee, awesome singer/keyboardist/composer/producer. We got together last week when he came to town with Chuck Negron, lead singer of 'Three Dog Night'.

Carlos and I go WAY back; in fact I started working in the group Tabasco with Carlos when he was just 15 years old!

We met at Disneyworld, Florida (where I was working in 'Kids of the Kingdom' a 'grown-up' Mickey Mouse Club singing/dancing group). Tabasco was a group of three brothers, their brother-in-law, two sisters, and one of the sisters was married to one of the Murguia brothers! All were from Mexico City. They were so dynamic; did all styles of music, choreographed everything and did tight, multi-harmonies. What a group! They asked me to join their group when one of the sisters went back to Mexico to do a television show, so off I went with Tabasco to work at Tomorrowland Terrace at Disneyland. FUN!

I went on to tour Mexico, Puerto Rico, Panama, Acapulco and the U.S. and Canada with the 7 piece show group, which was where I learned most everything I know about performing, being on the road, doing Television etc. It was a great group and a life-changing experience for me.

So Carlos and I had lots of memories to talk about, especially since I hadn't seen him in 20 years! I don't know where the time goes!

While I was in the group Tabasco I used my middle name 'Cristina' since it was hard for Latinos to pronounce 'beth' - it always came out sounding like 'bet' or 'betty', so Cristina sounded much more Latin.

Carlos always played the B-3 in Tabasco, and he played the B3 at Chuck Negron's concert, too, so it was fun to hear that big organ sound again that we used so much in Tabasco.

I'm so glad to have had such a long career with so many adventures! I've seen places; met people and shared stages with some incredible people that I never would have, had I not 'followed my muse' and had a music career. It's been a great life, and so much more to come. I love the way my music is evolving; my teaching is helping others, and my friends from the past are still in my life.

Here's to Carlos, Tabasco, and Cristina, La Gringa!