The ShadowMusic Web Community

There is nothing new in this debate, anyone who has run a club will know that you can only work with the skill and experience of those at any particular meeting, this could be any combination from complete newbies, people who play mostly at home or those who already play at club or professional level. This equally applies to the format, numbers and sets that one is able to do in order to benefit and attract members, whilst keeping it interesting and entertaining!

As someone who ran what most considered to be a pretty successful Shadows club for around 6 years, it was made very clear in the club mandate and on the website that we also welcomed music of the 50s/60s and in practice we were reasonably tolerant. Despite what Steve may think, it was very much a Shadows Club in that we were not only keeping the music alive, but also generating interest and introducing many new players to the Shadows experience, whilst encouraging an enjoyable performance based atmosphere.

Where Shadows Clubs come into their own is in providing experience, knowledge, confidence and constructive evaluation/advice. We were very fortunate in having several exceptionally talented players who were more than willing to help newcomers and share techniques, there was a really good knowledge of the Shadows and their music, which was often of interest and discussed amongst our appreciative audience. The club was also quite technically supportive, people could discuss guitar/equipment setups, electronics and DAWs.

I would say to Steve that rather than being openly critical both here and with those attending the meetings, whilst expressing derisory views for anything that doesn’t fit his ideals, why not try getting involved and acting in the common good? The people running the clubs are putting in all the time, work and effort, often having to deal with “situations” and take on board all sorts responsibilities on behalf of the club and it’s members, I’m sure they would appreciate some positive input and he might find it quite enlightening!

Gary, you have basically summed up our local Shadows club in a nut shell - a great place to both play and learn.

The bit about "generating interest and introducing many new players to the Shadows experience...." is what I was trying to say, but you put it far more concisely than I managed . The folk who run these clubs put in an awful lot of work, much of which is unseen by us "players", who just have to turn up, tune up (optional!!), plug in, and play. I personally can't thank them enough for all their work, and the opportunities they provide for beginner guitarists like myself. Long may they continue.

Cliff

Talk about a thread resurrection - I can hardly remember starting it!

With regards to the club I originally spoke of (but did not name), I cannot comment on what their situation is now as I haven't attended for some time, having moved to another part of the country seven years ago. Where I live now there are several Shadows Clubs quite near which I am pleased to say stick to the formula of mainly Shadows and very little else. During the first part of the meetings (the 'backing tracks' set) I now play my own compositions exclusively, to which there are no objections (or if there are, they haven't said!).

I just wish something could be done about those people who turn up with boring song covers.

I am guilty of resurrecting this, Steve. We are trying to bring together the few amateur instrumental combo musicians remaining here, so I looked to see what the experience has been in the Shadows clubs there. Going through the club notices, I was happy to note that the noon to 4:00 schedule we selected coincides with those of many clubs. Senior hours.

The old threads are quite interesting actually and a great re-read. So much enthusiasm expressed there (and information I have forgotten).

With best wishes to all from sunny Manila,

Andy

There is no guilt in refreshing an old thread, Andy. It shows what a wealth of information and thought has been contributed to this site over the years!
If time hangs heavy sometimes, I would encourage more delving into the archives.
If something new occurs to anyone, why not put it in? Equally, If anyone thinks better of something they wrote in the past, they can always delete it.