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As the Christmas season approaches, many of us eagerly anticipate the warm embrace of familiar tunes filling the air. These melodies, ranging from joyful jingles to soothing harmonies, create a magical atmosphere of nostalgia and comfort. For those grappling with heartache or challenging circumstances, this music goes beyond simple enjoyment. It has the profound ability to heal, provide solace, and comfort to those in pain. In this blog post, we'll explore how Christmas music can mend broken hearts, examine the psychological benefits of holiday tunes, and offer thoughtful suggestions for your healing playlist. So, grab a cup of hot cocoa, snuggle up in a warm blanket, and let’s discover the healing magic of festive melodies. The Connection Between Music and Emotions Music has been a vital part of human culture for centuries, acting as a universal language that resonates with our feelings. Christmas music is often filled with themes of love, hope, and joy, stirring emotions long buried within us. Listening to songs like "Silent Night" or "Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas" can evoke nostalgia that takes us back to happier times. According to a survey by the American Psychological Association, 60% of people reported that listening to music helped them remember joyful memories. These melodies remind us of the love shared with family, friends, or even lost partners. For those experiencing grief or loneliness, the embrace of these tender tunes can foster a healing journey. The Psychological Benefits of Listening to Holiday Tunes Research demonstrates that listening to music, particularly songs meaningful to us, can trigger the release of dopamine—a brain chemical linked to pleasure. During the holidays—a time when many endure feelings of loss or loneliness—Christmas music can be a comforting remedy. Emotional Catharsis : Christmas songs can help express pent-up emotions. For instance, belting out a song like "Christmas (Baby Please Come Home)" allows for a powerful emotional release, reducing feelings of sadness. Sense of Belonging : The communal aspect of Christmas music alleviates feelings of isolation. Whether you’re singing with family, attending a concert, or simply singing in your shower, these tunes remind us we are not alone in our experiences. A study showed that participating in group singing can lower stress levels by up to 35%. Uplifting Energy : Some tracks are simply joyous. Songs like "Frosty the Snowman" and "Jingle Bells" can brighten your mood, reinforcing that joy is still reachable, even in tough times. Creating Your Holiday Playlist for Healing To harness the healing power of Christmas music, consider curating a playlist that resonates with your emotions. Here are a few song suggestions that can provide comfort and healing during the holiday season: "Silent Night" – This timeless classic evokes tranquility and fosters a sense of calm, making it perfect for quiet reflection. "Christmas (Baby Please Come Home)" by Darlene Love – A haunting ballad that beautifully captures longing and hope, which is invaluable to those feeling heartbroken. "Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas" – This song embodies bittersweet emotions, making it ideal for those who may be struggling to feel festive. "The Christmas Song (Chestnuts Roasting on an Open Fire)" – A warm, nostalgic tune that wraps you in comforting memories, reminding listeners of cozy gatherings. "Hard Candy Christmas" by Dolly Parton – It speaks of overcoming hardship while holding onto hope, perfect for anyone navigating difficult times. You might also want to sprinkle in upbeat favorites like "Jingle Bells" for moments when you need a little lift. Vinyl records showcasing a collection of Christmas music albums. Mindful Listening To make the most of your listening experience, mindfulness can enhance the therapeutic effects of music. Find a quiet spot where you can truly savor your holiday playlist. Focus on the Lyrics : Pay attention to the words. What feelings do they stir? Are there particular verses that resonate with your current emotions? Allow Yourself to Feel : Embrace whatever emotions arise. It’s perfectly natural to cry or feel a wave of sadness. Allow the music to free the emotions you may have been holding inside. Combine with Other Healing Practices : Light a candle or sip warm tea as you listen. You might also find journaling your thoughts during the music can be a valuable outlet for expression. Finding Connection Through Shared Music One of the joys of Christmas music is its ability to build connections among people. Whether attending a local holiday concert, caroling with friends, or sharing a playlist with loved ones, music binds us together. Engage with others by discussing your favorite holiday songs and what they mean to you. This exchange can uplift your spirits and help you realize that many share similar feelings of heartache or yearning during this time. Embracing the Power of Music Christmas music is more than just a backdrop to the season; it holds a powerful ability to mend broken hearts. By understanding and connecting with the emotions these songs evoke, we can find comfort during challenging times. As you navigate this holiday season, whether dealing with the loss of someone dear, experiencing loneliness, or feeling overwhelmed, appreciate the healing potential of festive tunes. Embrace your emotions, create the playlist of your heart, and let Christmas music enfold you like a warm embrace. Remember, it is perfectly okay to feel and to heal. Allow the music to lead your heart toward hope, joy, and reconnection. Happy listening and Merry Christmas! A tranquil winter setting symbolizes peace and comfort during the holidays.

Hey there, fellow music aficionado! Have you ever found yourself transported to another world as a captivating melody sweeps you off your feet? Music has an undeniable power to narrate stories, evoke emotions, and imprint memories that last a lifetime. In this blog post, we'll delve into the enchanting realm where stories are told through music, exploring the profound emotional effects they have on us, all from the perspective of a musician. The Art of Musical Storytelling Music holds the uncanny ability to speak to our souls in ways words cannot. Each note, each lyric, is a brushstroke on a canvas, painting vivid pictures and weaving intricate tales. As a musician, you become not just a composer but a storyteller, channeling your emotions and experiences through melodies and harmonies that resonate with others. The Emotional Rollercoaster Ever noticed how a single song has the power to make you smile, cry, or dance like nobody's watching? That's the magic of music's emotional effects. Whether it's the melancholic strains of a violin in a heart-wrenching ballad or the upbeat tempo of a feel-good anthem, music has a direct line to our hearts, stirring up a whirlwind of emotions with each beat. Empathy through Harmony A unique aspect of stories told through music is their ability to foster empathy. When you listen to a song that reflects your own experiences or struggles, you feel understood and less alone. Music connects us on a profound level, creating a shared emotional experience that transcends language barriers and cultural divides. From Studio to Stage - Bringing Stories to Life For musicians, the journey from composing in the studio to performing on stage is a transformative experience. Every note played, every lyric sung is a chance to breathe life into the stories crafted through music. The rush of adrenaline, the camaraderie with fellow musicians, and the electrifying connection with the audience amplify the emotional impact of these musical narratives. The Endless Playlist of Memories Think about the songs that transport you back in time - to your first love, a significant life event, or a moment of pure bliss. Music has the uncanny ability to etch memories into our minds, creating a soundtrack to our lives. Each melody becomes a chapter in our personal stories, preserving emotions and experiences in a timeless archive of sound. Embrace the Melody Within As you continue your musical journey, remember the transformative power of stories told through music. Whether you're a listener swept away by a symphony or a musician crafting your compositions, cherish the emotional rollercoaster that music offers. Let the melodies guide you, the lyrics inspire you, and the harmonies envelop you in a tapestry of emotions. So, next time you press play on your favorite song, close your eyes, and let the stories unfold. Because in the world of music, every note is a chapter waiting to be written, every beat a heartbeat echoing the rhythm of life. Embrace the melody within and let the stories told through music become a part of your own narrative. Musical stories are not just compositions; they are mirrors reflecting our joys, sorrows, dreams, and fears. Dive into the depths of these sonic tales and discover the emotional landscape that lies within each melody. As a musician, as a listener, as a storyteller - let the music guide you on a journey of self-discovery and emotional revelation. Music is not just sound; it's a language of the soul. Immerse yourself in its beauty, and let the stories unfold in a symphony of emotions that only music can convey. Let the notes be your guide, let the melodies be your muse, and let the stories told through music ignite the flames of your passion and creativity. For in the end, it's not just the stories we tell - it's the stories we feel. Experience the transformative power of music and dive into a world where stories are told through melodies and lyrics. Let your emotions soar and your soul resonate with the harmonies that shape our lives. What's your favorite musical story? 🎶✨

Are you feeling stuck in a creative rut, searching for ways to rejuvenate your artistic vision and bring new life to your work? It's a common challenge artists face, but fear not! In this how-to guide, we'll explore some practical and inspiring tips to help you reignite your creativity and rediscover that spark that makes your art truly unique. 1. Embrace Nature's Inspiration One of the best ways to rejuvenate your creativity is by reconnecting with nature. Take a leisurely walk in the park, listen to the birds chirping, feel the breeze on your skin, and let the beauty of the natural world inspire your artistic soul. Nature has a way of breathing new life into our creative endeavors. 2. Experiment with Different Mediums If you usually work with one specific medium, why not shake things up a bit? Try experimenting with different materials like clay, watercolors, or even digital art. Stepping out of your comfort zone can spark fresh ideas and open up a whole new world of creative possibilities. Or for those musically inclined, try a different instrument. It can be very refreshing! 3. Visit Art Galleries and Exhibitions Immerse yourself in the work of other artists by visiting art galleries and exhibitions. Seeing the creativity and talent of others can be incredibly inspiring and may trigger new ideas in your own artistic endeavors. Don't be afraid to take notes or snap some photos for reference later on. You can also visit concert venues to get ideas of how others create their musical art. 4. Practice Mindfulness and Meditation Clearing your mind through mindfulness and meditation can do wonders for your creative process. Take a few moments each day to sit quietly, focus on your breath, and let go of any mental clutter. You'll be amazed at how this practice can help you tap into your inner creativity and find fresh inspiration. The book of Psalms is a great place to start! 5. Collaborate with Other Artists Collaborating with fellow artists can be a fantastic way to rejuvenate your creativity. Join forces with a friend or colleague on a new project, share ideas, and feed off each other's energy. Sometimes, a different perspective is all you need to see your art in a whole new light. 6. Create a Vision Board Put together a visual representation of your artistic goals and dreams by creating a vision board. Cut out images, quotes, and colors that resonate with you and arrange them in a way that sparks your creativity. Having a tangible reminder of your aspirations can help you stay focused and motivated. Remember, the creative journey is uniquely yours, and there's no one-size-fits-all approach to rejuvenating your artistry. Find what works best for you and embrace the process with an open mind and heart. Let go of perfectionism and allow yourself to play, explore, and make mistakes along the way. Your creativity is a precious gift—nurture it, celebrate it, and let it shine brightly in all that you create. So go ahead, dear artist, and unleash your creativity in ways you never thought possible. The world is waiting to be dazzled by your unique artistry!

My friend and drumbox buddy Garry Myers and I have launched a new combo endeavor called: Treble Clef. We will be playing 'Outside the Box' of Church when we get the chance and will be posting our gigs and setlists online. Check it out here:

Are you a budding musician ready to take the stage by storm? The world of live music performances, or gigs , can be both exhilarating and nerve-wracking for beginners. But fear not! This comprehensive guide is here to equip you with the essential tips and tricks to ace your performances and make a lasting impression while gigging. Preparation is Key Before stepping onto the stage, ensure you are well-acquainted with your setlist. Practice your songs until they are second nature to you. Familiarity with your setlist will boost your confidence and help you deliver a memorable performance. From your instruments to spare cables, make a checklist of all the equipment you need for the gig. Being prepared with backups and essentials will save you from any last-minute technical hiccups. On Stage Techniques Connect with your audience by making eye contact, smiling, and even interacting with them between songs. Engaging with the crowd can create a vibrant atmosphere and leave a lasting impression. Feeling nervous before a gig is natural. Instead of trying to eliminate nerves completely, channel that energy into your performance. Turn that adrenaline rush into a captivating stage presence. Post-Gig Reflection After your gig, don't be afraid to ask for feedback from peers or even the audience. Constructive criticism can help you identify areas for improvement and grow as a musician. Take time to reflect on your performance. What worked well? What could have been better? Learning from each gig experience will contribute to your growth as a performer. Performance Etiquette Treat the venue, staff, and fellow performers with respect. A positive attitude backstage and onstage will not only reflect well on you but also open up opportunities for future gigs. Arrive on time for soundchecks and performances. Punctuality shows professionalism and ensures a smooth running of the event. Keep these tips in mind as you embark on your journey through the world of gigs and live performances. Remember, every gig is a learning opportunity, and with each performance, you'll continue to evolve and refine your craft. Embrace the stage with confidence and passion, and let your music speak volumes to your audience!

There's a new song I just finished recording and put onto the music page on this site. This recording was with Presonus' Studio One recording product and the Audiobox USB device provided with it. There are five different tracks combined into the recording which made it challenging to do. My prayer is that you enjoy it and think of Jesus while listening to it!

This is such a wonderful time of the year for everyone both young and old to experience the joy of Christmas! If you'd like to have real and lasting peace besides this once a year celebration, you need to know and have a relationship with the One who is the source of life and the reason we celebrate this season: Jesus Christ! Amidst all of the misinformation and confusion that our world throws at us, the one source of absolute truth is the Bible. The second book of the New Testament was written by the first century Doctor Luke. He tells the wonderful story of Jesus' birth: ”At that time the Roman emperor, Augustus, decreed that a census should be taken throughout the Roman Empire. (This was the first census taken when Quirinius was governor of Syria.) All returned to their own ancestral towns to register for this census. And because Joseph was a descendant of King David, he had to go to Bethlehem in Judea, David’s ancient home. He traveled there from the village of Nazareth in Galilee. He took with him Mary, to whom he was engaged, who was now expecting a child. And while they were there, the time came for her baby to be born. She gave birth to her firstborn son. She wrapped him snugly in strips of cloth and laid him in a manger, because there was no lodging available for them. That night there were shepherds staying in the fields nearby, guarding their flocks of sheep. Suddenly, an angel of the Lord appeared among them, and the radiance of the Lord’s glory surrounded them. They were terrified, but the angel reassured them. “Don’t be afraid!” he said. “I bring you good news that will bring great joy to all people. The Savior—yes, the Messiah, the Lord—has been born today in Bethlehem, the city of David! And you will recognize him by this sign: You will find a baby wrapped snugly in strips of cloth, lying in a manger.” Suddenly, the angel was joined by a vast host of others—the armies of heaven—praising God and saying, “Glory to God in highest heaven, and peace on earth to those with whom God is pleased.” When the angels had returned to heaven, the shepherds said to each other, “Let’s go to Bethlehem! Let’s see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has told us about.” They hurried to the village and found Mary and Joseph. And there was the baby, lying in the manger. After seeing him, the shepherds told everyone what had happened and what the angel had said to them about this child. All who heard the shepherds’ story were astonished,“ ‭‭Luke‬ ‭2‬:‭1‬-‭18‬ ‭NLT‬‬ https://bible.com/bible/116/luk.2.1-18.NLT Have a Merry Christmas and God Bless you and your family from mine and Gentle Haven Music Web Design! And, if you'd like to hear Linus explain to Charlie Brown in Peanuts what Christmas is all about, I've added it here.

Paul Baloche leads worship with Michelle Shepherd on backup vocals Yesterday, my wife and I returned from Tacoma, Washington where I attended the 20th Christian Musicians Summit. If you are a Worship Leader and have never attended one of these, you need to! I had the pleasure of attending with the bassist from our Worship Team as well as the Audio-Visual Technician from another church in town. We had a blast! My wife asked me what my favorite part of the summit was. I said: the WORSHIP! How often can you worship with fellow musicians? It was like being in the throne room of God Himself! Please understand though that I love to worship with everyone who calls on the name of the Lord. This was just a very special time ordained by God Himself to call similar talented people to join together in worship, learning, and expanding the kingdom of God through music. What a pleasure it was! Norm Stockton playing Christian Jazz Fusion After the morning sessions were done on the first day, Norm Stockton formerly of Lincoln Brewster's band, gave an artist showcase. His five-string bass was lit up by tracks he's recently recorded called: Grooves and Sushi It just goes to show that worship music isn't limited to straight 4/4 three chord songs. Worship Team Discussion with from left to right - Bobby Hartry, Norm Stockton, Brenton Brown, Aaron Blanton, and Ed Kerr One of the most enjoyable highlights of the summit was the Working as a Band discussion. This was led by Brenton Brown who wrote the song: Everlasting God. It stressed how important it is to first, listen to God. Second, listen to each other, and third, play as a unit without stepping on each other. Very cool! Another session that was mostly for electric guitar players was hosted by Bobby Hartry. His discussion was generally about the setup he uses when touring as can be seen below. Bobby Hartry with one of his touring pedal setups Something that Bobby said that I found interesting was that he uses three different overdrive pedals to get different sound out of his performance playing. He also bemoaned the travails of flying to different gigs as he used to play a Gibson SG for many years. After one flight on an airline, the headstock on his SG was broken off. He now uses a steel attached neck with an older Stratocaster body. Such are the challenges for traveling musicians... Sigh There you have it! That's my summary of the summit which really only covers a small amount of what we all experienced. There were also vocal workshops, leadership lectures, AV technical discussions and vendors willing to share their products and experiences. I encourage you to check out the Christian Musicians Summit when you can. It's definitely worth attending and there will be another in 2023! God bless, Matt

This week I will be attending the Christian Musicians Summit! I'm looking forward to it and will be publishing an update on this blog about how it went, what I learned and any inspirational messages I can pass along. Stay tuned...

Since it's the beginning of 2018, I thought I would begin publishing a blog on musician tips every week. I need some help though as to subjects you, the reader, would like to hear about. You can contact me on Facebook at the Gentle Haven Music Page: https://www.facebook.com/GentleHavenMusic/ or email at: Info@GentleHavenMusic.com. There are so many topics we could discuss here, but I would like to know what you think and are wanting to learn about. My only ask from you is: Be nice! Let me give you an example of something I encountered when I was teaching guitar. A student said to me: "Dude, I want to learn how to play like Eddie Van Halen in six weeks." Okay, so first of all, don't call me 'Dude'. Second of all, only Eddie can play like Eddie. Everyone needs to develop their own style. So, let's have some discussions about musical style, musicianship, vocals, harmony, performance, and things like that. Let me know what you think and let's start 2018 with some musical sparkle! #Musicians #Musicartistry #performance #guitar