Musical Styles...how do we approach teaching and learning in a mixed-genre musical world?

    As music becomes more and more mixed in terms of genre, it's sometimes hard to put labels on new styles and approaches. Being exposed to students 12-18 on a daily basis gives me an idea of what styles, artists, ect. are popular with them. 
   However, it's not always cut and dry as young people have more music to be exposed to with the many ways in which they can listen to and involve themselves with it. 

• Is that a good thing? 
• Will it eventually water down the purity of genres we have been accustomed to? If so, is that good or bad?
• Will there be a return to pure genre forms in the future if music becomes too opaque across the board?

   Now, what about instrumental/vocal study? Is it relavant to study one style only in a day where genre-mixing brings new approaches to all styles? 

   Can a musician survive (financially and otherwise) if he or she concentrates on one approach only? Do the movers and shakers in universitys and specialized music schools see this trend and are they preparing students for a broad approach to learning and performance?

   What is your opinion?

"She Rules...So You Best Be Cool"- Redux!

Where to play?

It's been bugging me a lot recently that young bands (members 12-18) have really limited options when it comes to playing gigs. Not old enough to play in clubs many are forced into "Battle of the Bands" events or are forced to wait weeks or months before having thier next gig. 
If any of you out there have found options let me know. I have a lot of bands out there waiting and many of them are better than most cover bands I've seen!

Welcome!

I am very excited to being this blog. I wish to concentrate most of the discussions on performance, band development, guitar playing, getting gigs, songwriting,  and most of all, how to deal with the myriad of issues that come up in the world of musical performance.


I have experience in just about every performance situation and have advice on the problems you may encounter. However, I don't pretend to know it all and the most interesting discussions will be one's where I learn from you all. 
Musical performance is the most thrilling activity you can become involved in. The feeling and the energy that come over you are almost impossible to describe. If you've been there you know, if not, you will!


Okay, enough of that. If you want my background go ahead and read up on it before proceeding.
Thanks guys,
Mark