Always getting better

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In this episode of Always Getting Better, we sit down with the incredibly talented session drummer, Steve 'Smiley' Barnard, whose rhythmic prowess has graced stages alongside iconic artists like Robbie Williams and Joe Strummer. Smiley, as he's affectionately known, doesn't just keep the beat—he defines it. Join us as we delve into his extraordinary career, spanning from stadium performances with Archive to regular tours with The Alarm, and explore his multifaceted roles as a music producer, songwriter, and his current venture into the creation of his 11th solo album.

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Happy New Year, welcome to the first episode of 2024. Today, we catch up with the extraordinary guitarist, Brian Flack, an old friend and musical companion with whom we've shared countless adventures on the road. Join us as we delve into Brian's musical journey, from his first strum to the global stages of cruise ships.

In this heartwarming conversation, Brian takes us back to the beginning, reminiscing about his first guitar teacher. Together, we explore the impact of those early lessons, the inspiration derived, and the foundation laid for what would become a remarkable musical career.

As we navigate the lanes of memory, Brian shares insights into the importance of consistency in his musical pursuits. From dedicated practice routines to the unwavering commitment to his craft, we uncover the key elements that have shaped Brian's evolution as a guitarist over the years.

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Welcome to "Always Getting Better," where we dive into the relentless pursuit of improvement and growth with some of the most accomplished musicians in the industry. In this episode, we're joined by the powerhouse heavy metal bassist, Arran McSporran.

Known for his thunderous presence in bands like Virvum, Vipassi, and Utopia, Arran's bass lines have become synonymous with the intensity and precision of the metal genre. But it doesn't stop there – he's not only shared stages with the legendary Steve Vai but also imparts his knowledge as a teacher at the ACM in Guildford.

Our conversation takes us into the heart of Arran's musical journey. We explore his deep appreciation  of heavy metal—a realm often associated with raw emotion and spontaneity. Discover how Arran finds a balance between technical precision and emotional expression, and how the love of sheet music has been a driving force in his continuous evolution as a bassist.

  Arran opens up about the invaluable lessons he's learned from collaborating and transcribing  other instrumentalists. From touring with guitar virtuosos to playing in a multitude of circuit bands, he shares the insights gained from these experiences and the impact they've had on his musical approach.

And then there's the topic of effective practice. Arran unveils his secrets to practicing the right way – a method honed through years of dedication and hard work. We delve into the specifics of his practice routine, the importance of setting goals, and how to overcome challenges to emerge as a stronger, more versatile musician.

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Welcome to this special episode of "Always Getting Better." Today, we're sitting down with the incredibly talented guitarist, Matt Wong, to explore his journey as a musician in the heart of Broadway and the bustling world of New York City's session scene.

Matt takes us through his experiences as a guitarist on Broadway, sharing the highs and challenges of performing live in some of the world's most iconic theaters. From the electric energy of the stage to the demanding nature of the music, we dive into the unique demands and rewards of being a part of the Broadway scene.

But Matt's story doesn't stop there. As a sought-after session musician in New York, he walks us through the diverse musical landscape he navigates. From jazz to pop, rock to classical, Matt's versatility shines as he discusses the collaborative and dynamic nature of being a session guitarist in one of the most musically rich cities in the world.

We delve into the intricacies of learning to sight-read, a skill that has been fundamental to Matt's success in the industry. He shares the challenges he faced, the importance of adaptability, and the role that sight-reading plays in the life of a professional musician. Whether it's a Broadway show or a last-minute recording session, Matt's ability to read and interpret music on the spot has been a key factor in his success.

But Matt's story takes an unexpected turn as he shares his passion for aviation. We explore how he balances his life as a musician with his love for flying, discussing the parallels between the two worlds and the unique perspectives each pursuit brings. Matt gives us a glimpse into the discipline and focus required to become a pilot while maintaining a thriving career in the music industry.

Join us for an engaging and insightful conversation with Matt Wong as we explore the fascinating intersections of life as a Broadway guitarist, New York session musician, sight-reading enthusiast, and aspiring pilot. This is Always Getting Better – where the music goes beyond the notes on the page and into the heart of the artist's journey.

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In a musical world saturated with individual pursuits, session guitarist Mike Bradley sheds light on the importance of collective harmony—both in bands and in life. In a candid conversation, we explore his insights on the transformative power of being in a band, the value of music education, and the delicate balance of navigating parenthood while pursuing a passion.

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In this episode I chat with session guitarist Pete Callard, exploring various facets of his multifaceted career. Pete provides insights into the dynamic world of being a session guitarist, shedding light on the diverse projects and genres he has contributed to over the years. From pop to jazz, his experiences offer a glimpse into the challenges and rewards of navigating the music industry as a versatile and in-demand session player.

The discussion delves into Pete's role as a music educator, highlighting his passion for teaching and sharing his knowledge with aspiring musicians. Listeners gain valuable perspectives on the art of teaching music, the importance of mentorship, and the evolving landscape of music education.

Pete graduated as ‘Outstanding Student of the Year’ from Musicians' Institute in Hollywood, California. Since returning to England his many credits include Lionel Richie, Queen, Annie Lennox, The Bee Gees, Ronan Keating, Will Young, Shirley Bassey and Chaka Khan, alongside numerous TV shows, films and recordings. In the guitar community he’s perhaps best known for his regular columns in Guitar Techniques, Guitarist and Total Guitar magazines, and was for many years a tutor at the Academy of Contemporary Music in Guildford.

Additionally, Pete shares his experiences as a columnist for Guitar Techniques Magazine, where he contributes jazz-focused content. The podcast unveils the intricacies of writing about jazz for a wider audience, discussing the challenges of breaking down complex concepts into accessible and informative columns. Pete's passion for jazz and his ability to convey its nuances to readers offer valuable insights for both aspiring guitarists and seasoned musicians alike.

Overall, this podcast episode provides a rich and engaging exploration of Pete Callard's career, spanning session work, teaching, collaborations with renowned musicians, and his role as a contributor to the world of guitar journalism.

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Welcome to Always Getting Better, the show where we dive deep into the world of music, exploring ways to enhance our musicianship, sharpen our improvisation skills, and make the most of our practice time. In this episode, we're joined by the incredibly talented guitarist Sam Bell, who serves as the head of guitar at WaterBear College and is a regular contributor to Lick Library.

In this engaging conversation, Sam shares his wealth of knowledge and expertise, offering valuable insights on how to elevate your musical abilities. Whether you're a beginner looking to start your musical journey or an experienced musician striving to reach new heights, Sam's practical tips and innovative approaches will inspire you to become a more efficient and creative player.

Join us as we discuss effective practice routines, the art of improvisation, and strategies for mastering your instrument. Sam provides actionable advice on building a solid foundation, honing your technical skills, and unleashing your creativity. Learn how to structure your practice sessions, develop a musical ear, and cultivate the confidence to express yourself through your instrument.

Whether you're a guitarist, a musician, or simply someone passionate about music, this episode is packed with valuable insights that will transform the way you approach your craft. Tune in and discover the secrets to becoming a more proficient, inventive, and confident musician. Don't miss this opportunity to learn from one of the industry's leading guitarists and educators.

[Podcast Name] is thrilled to bring you this inspiring conversation with Sam Bell. Prepare to be motivated, educated, and empowered to take your musicianship to the next level. Subscribe now and join us on this musical journey!

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In this captivating podcast episode, we have the privilege of sitting down with the accomplished guitarist, Alex Ward, known for his impressive tour experiences with iconic acts like Rock of Ages and Abba Gold. Join us as we delve into the world of guitar playing, discussing the importance of practice, the challenges faced by Instagram guitarists, the exhilaration of learning new music, and the enduring significance of Oasis in the realm of rock music.

First and foremost, Alex Ward emphasizes the pivotal role of consistent practice in becoming a skilled guitarist. He shares insights into his own journey, highlighting the countless hours spent refining his craft and how it's been integral to his success in the industry. Aspiring musicians and seasoned professionals alike will benefit from his valuable advice on mastering the art of the guitar.

The discussion also delves into the modern landscape of guitar playing, specifically focusing on the challenges faced by budding musicians in the age of Instagram. Alex offers his perspective on the pressure to constantly showcase technical prowess and the potential impact on creativity. He encourages listeners to strike a balance between showcasing their skills and finding their own musical voice.

Alex's passion for music comes through as he shares the pure joy of learning new songs and styles. He reveals the thrill of taking on fresh challenges and the personal growth it can bring. Whether you're a guitarist or a music enthusiast, you'll find his anecdotes and enthusiasm infectious.

Finally, Alex Ward brings the conversation full circle by discussing the enduring importance of Oasis in the world of rock music. He explores the band's impact on his own musical journey and the lasting influence of their music on generations of musicians and fans.

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Episode 2 - Sabrina Altan

Sabrina Altan is a musical force to be reckoned with. A gifted singer-songwriter, an esteemed vocal lecturer at BIMM University, and a highly sought-after top-line session singer, Sabrina's musical journey is nothing short of inspiring. Her passion for music has taken her to incredible heights, leaving an indelible mark on the industry.

Balancing Parenthood and a Musical Career

In this episode, Sabrina opens up about the intricate balancing act of being a devoted parent while pursuing a thriving career in music. Sabrina shares her personal insights into how parenthood has influenced her artistry, offering a unique perspective on the creative process that is often fueled by love, family, and life experiences.

The Virtue of Practice and Professionalism

Sabrina's dedication to her craft is unwavering. As both an accomplished artist and vocal lecturer, she understands the importance of practice in honing one's skills. She delves into the significance of continuous improvement and the rewards of putting in the hours to refine one's talents. Sabrina also shares her thoughts on professionalism in the music industry, emphasizing the essential traits that make a musician stand out in a competitive landscape.

Impressive Session Credits

Sabrina Altan has left her mark on some of the most iconic music projects and artists in the world. Her session credits include legendary names like Elton John, MTV, Marva King, Annie Lennox, Beverly Knight, and Andrea Bocelli. In this episode, she takes us behind the scenes of these remarkable experiences, offering insights into her contributions to the music world.

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In this episode of "Getting Better," we're joined by the incredibly talented Matt Webster, the creative genius behind the popular YouTube channel "Let's Play All." Matt has become a well-known figure in the YouTube and music communities, and he's here to share his journey, insights, and tips on running a successful YouTube channel and how to improve your guitar skills.

Segment 1: Meet Matt Webster We kick off the episode by getting to know Matt Webster. Matt shares his background, what inspired him to start "Let's Play All," and his passion for music and guitar playing. Listeners will discover the journey that led Matt to where he is today.

Segment 2: Running a Successful YouTube Channel Matt dives into the world of content creation on YouTube. He discusses the challenges, the strategies, and the secrets behind growing a dedicated fanbase. Matt talks about the importance of authenticity, consistency, and engagement with your audience. He also shares his experiences dealing with the YouTube algorithm and how to adapt to its ever-changing nature.

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