When I was in Portland last month I saw the book, God in a Cup, by Michaele Weissman on the shelf at Powell's... after deciding that I could exercise my will power and not buy it... I ended up getting it to send to Levi.
It lead to $100 dollar half pound of the Panama Hacienda La Esmeralda gourmet “geisha” coffee being ordered... which is covered extensively in the book.
There are lots of different views about this unprecedented coffee, but regardless of whether you think coffee is ready for that kind of price or not... it is a little marker in the history of the coffee industry. Levi now has a piece of that, and if you get the chance you should ask him about it.
Thursday, July 03, 2008
Thursday, June 26, 2008
the StereoFidelics
Not a whole lot of time to elaborate... but I didn't want to miss the chance to highly suggest getting down to the Tree for this multi-instrument duo from North Carolina. The StereoFidelics have a unique sound that is versatile and works on many levels (many HIGH levels). Their first show at the Tree prompted the audience to start a petition for a full length album from the duo (which they are in the process of working on, due out in October)... so they listened to the audience demands... and return to the Spencer this Saturday (8pm) share more of their music. You can also follow along on their tour at their Blog.
Wednesday, June 04, 2008
the Gypsy Dave Connection
A few weeks ago when we had the pleasure of hosting Noah Earle (another great show from him BTW), he spotted a poster on the the Shaky Tree community door... "You have Gypsy Dave coming?"
Noah went on to talk about their connection, and I knew this to be a good sign for the upcoming show. It is fun to see how the relationships that Shaky Tree has formed during our short time are part of a larger woven fabric of community. During the past year I have met musicians coming through Spencer that wrote songs I have been listening to for years (long before I even knew Spencer existed), or who know musicians that I know... and played venues I have played/been to many miles away.
Shaky Tree (and Spencer as a whole) is fast becoming a beautiful part of a larger community. It is a community that values live music, and the authentic interaction that happens when a listening environment is nurtured for that creativity. This larger movement has little pieces all over this country (and the world), as well as connecters that travel these roads sharing one place's stories with another. When you make it down to the Tree to support a live show... you are supporting this larger community, and then you become a part of it. Your energy gets woven into the mix, and a piece of your story travels along with the musician to the next spot.
The next chance to weave yourself into that larger fabric is this Saturday (6/7/08 @ 8pm) with Gypsy Dave & the Stumpjumpers. The Shaky Tree stage will highlight the bands rootsy sound covering all sorts of genres, and it is sure to be a fun evening... providing something for everyone.
Noah went on to talk about their connection, and I knew this to be a good sign for the upcoming show. It is fun to see how the relationships that Shaky Tree has formed during our short time are part of a larger woven fabric of community. During the past year I have met musicians coming through Spencer that wrote songs I have been listening to for years (long before I even knew Spencer existed), or who know musicians that I know... and played venues I have played/been to many miles away.
Shaky Tree (and Spencer as a whole) is fast becoming a beautiful part of a larger community. It is a community that values live music, and the authentic interaction that happens when a listening environment is nurtured for that creativity. This larger movement has little pieces all over this country (and the world), as well as connecters that travel these roads sharing one place's stories with another. When you make it down to the Tree to support a live show... you are supporting this larger community, and then you become a part of it. Your energy gets woven into the mix, and a piece of your story travels along with the musician to the next spot.
The next chance to weave yourself into that larger fabric is this Saturday (6/7/08 @ 8pm) with Gypsy Dave & the Stumpjumpers. The Shaky Tree stage will highlight the bands rootsy sound covering all sorts of genres, and it is sure to be a fun evening... providing something for everyone.
Wednesday, May 14, 2008
Noah Earle Returns
Noah Earle will be coming back to the Shaky Tree stage this Sunday for a rare afternoon show (3pm).
If you didn't catch Noah's first show at Shaky Tree... I'm sorry. His performance last December during our big weekend of music and events was certainly a highlight. Noah is putting out some of the best stuff I have seen and heard rolling around the mid-west (and all across this country). With laid-back-intensity, unique humor, and solid musicianship as tools to showcase talented song-writing... Noah Earle is a force to be reckoned with (kazoo and all), and not to be missed.
If you didn't catch Noah's first show at Shaky Tree... I'm sorry. His performance last December during our big weekend of music and events was certainly a highlight. Noah is putting out some of the best stuff I have seen and heard rolling around the mid-west (and all across this country). With laid-back-intensity, unique humor, and solid musicianship as tools to showcase talented song-writing... Noah Earle is a force to be reckoned with (kazoo and all), and not to be missed.
Thursday, April 17, 2008
March Open Mic
With our Open Mic coming up on Friday (7:30 sign up/8pm start)... I wanted to mention how great last month's Community Open Mic was, and post some photos of the fun. This month when you take the stage you can get hooked up with a Shaky Tree Community Open Mic magnet or button.
Our open mic has become a signature event at the Tree... and in many ways is a great definition of what Shaky Tree is all about. I say this because it is an event where we create an intentional, safe space for the community to gather and share their stories.
Never been? Here is how it works: If you are interested in sharing (a song, a poem, or just about anything), show up around 7:30pm to get a 10min slot. You do not have to fill that 10 minutes, but please don't go over it. We will make a roster for the night, filling the time between 8pm-10pm (with a short break in the middle). Shaky Tree is a listening environment, and open mic is no exception... so you will have an attentive, and supportive audience. We encourage people to stick around and listen to what everyone has to offer.
Through our open mic I have witnessed first time performances of original songs, people transforming perceptions from stage, tears, laughter, seasoned professionals trying new songs, self therapy, fun, growth... and most of all community. And I am so thankful for it all.
Our open mic has become a signature event at the Tree... and in many ways is a great definition of what Shaky Tree is all about. I say this because it is an event where we create an intentional, safe space for the community to gather and share their stories.
Never been? Here is how it works: If you are interested in sharing (a song, a poem, or just about anything), show up around 7:30pm to get a 10min slot. You do not have to fill that 10 minutes, but please don't go over it. We will make a roster for the night, filling the time between 8pm-10pm (with a short break in the middle). Shaky Tree is a listening environment, and open mic is no exception... so you will have an attentive, and supportive audience. We encourage people to stick around and listen to what everyone has to offer.
Through our open mic I have witnessed first time performances of original songs, people transforming perceptions from stage, tears, laughter, seasoned professionals trying new songs, self therapy, fun, growth... and most of all community. And I am so thankful for it all.
Thursday, April 10, 2008
Indie Coffee Shops!
Just found a site devoted to Indie Coffee Shops on a random google search of Shaky Tree... here is our page.
Good stuff.
P.S. if you are ever traveling some where and want to find coffee (good coffee), ask us for some our favorites around the country... or check great sites like Indie Coffee Shops, or Espresso Map (devoted to 'spro)... they have maps to get you to your beautiful cup on the road.
Good stuff.
P.S. if you are ever traveling some where and want to find coffee (good coffee), ask us for some our favorites around the country... or check great sites like Indie Coffee Shops, or Espresso Map (devoted to 'spro)... they have maps to get you to your beautiful cup on the road.
Friday, April 04, 2008
No Foolin' In April
This month has a diverse and exciting line up...
April will kick off with Michael Murphy on Saturday the 5th (8pm). Michael will bring his respected storytelling to the Shaky Tree, playing both guitar and Native American flute.
Next in line will be YOUR chance to take the stage... with the Shaky Tree Community Open Mic. We had a really great turn out last month with lots of first time performers. Get there early (by 7:30pm) to reserve your spot (please keep it to 10min or under)... show will start at 8pm. If you have any questions about how Open Mic works or other details give us a call (or drop by) and ask.
If you like a well worn, Americana/Country sound... then don’t miss Mike McDermott of Silverhands
on a rare Wednesday night show, April 23rd (7:30pm). With both Seattle and Iowa ties... this show is sure to be a unique show for our Spencer music scene.
Two nights later don’t miss the return of Dan Cohen... more than a few people count Dan’s first show at the Tree among their favorite shows... so we are all excited for the sounds of Dan’s excellent guitar work, clever lyrics and enjoyable stage presence. Make sure you get to the Tree April 25th (8pm) for this great show.
Lots of new stuff has been added to our online shop... stop by and check it out.
April will kick off with Michael Murphy on Saturday the 5th (8pm). Michael will bring his respected storytelling to the Shaky Tree, playing both guitar and Native American flute.
Next in line will be YOUR chance to take the stage... with the Shaky Tree Community Open Mic. We had a really great turn out last month with lots of first time performers. Get there early (by 7:30pm) to reserve your spot (please keep it to 10min or under)... show will start at 8pm. If you have any questions about how Open Mic works or other details give us a call (or drop by) and ask.
If you like a well worn, Americana/Country sound... then don’t miss Mike McDermott of Silverhands
on a rare Wednesday night show, April 23rd (7:30pm). With both Seattle and Iowa ties... this show is sure to be a unique show for our Spencer music scene.
Two nights later don’t miss the return of Dan Cohen... more than a few people count Dan’s first show at the Tree among their favorite shows... so we are all excited for the sounds of Dan’s excellent guitar work, clever lyrics and enjoyable stage presence. Make sure you get to the Tree April 25th (8pm) for this great show.
Lots of new stuff has been added to our online shop... stop by and check it out.
Sunday, March 23, 2008
Shaky Tree Field Trip to Cherokee
Chad Elliott had a show down in Cherokee at The Gathering Place... we had heard good things about what was going on down there... so we loaded up, and went.
What we found was a great venue, full of great people, ready for great live music... and I am pretty sure no one left disappointed. At one point I couldn't help but smile, because I was fully aware that this was what it is all about. It doesn't get much better than people gathering in community to enjoy being alive.
In the smaller context of NW Iowa... it was a chance for the "cross-pollination" of energy in the the growing music/art culture. I hope to see further collaboration between Shaky Tree/Spencer and The Gathering Place/Cherokee in the future.
Thank you to the Gathering Place for hosting, thank you Chad and crew for performing, and thanks to all the people who made their way to the show (many of whom came down from Spencer).
What we found was a great venue, full of great people, ready for great live music... and I am pretty sure no one left disappointed. At one point I couldn't help but smile, because I was fully aware that this was what it is all about. It doesn't get much better than people gathering in community to enjoy being alive.
In the smaller context of NW Iowa... it was a chance for the "cross-pollination" of energy in the the growing music/art culture. I hope to see further collaboration between Shaky Tree/Spencer and The Gathering Place/Cherokee in the future.
Thank you to the Gathering Place for hosting, thank you Chad and crew for performing, and thanks to all the people who made their way to the show (many of whom came down from Spencer).
Friday, March 07, 2008
March Madness... without the Hoops
March is jam packed with tunes at the Shaky Tree... If you missed the first show of the month with the Stereofidelics... I highly suggest you keep your ears open for the next time they roll through (maybe this summer). They were awesome!!!
However, don't be too sad... you can still catch plenty of GREAT music this month... starting Saturday the 8th, with Mat D. This is a re-scheduled show that you don't want to miss, and Mat will put on a show that will be heartfelt as well as fun. Catch one of the best, in a growing movement of mid-west song writers, for his second appearance on our stage.
Next in line is Kevin Mileski (canceled). This Colorado based singer/songwriter is sure to create a fan-base in Spencer, with his finger-style guitar playing and vocals hailed as, the "new style for any generation". Come support live music in Spencer March 15th, with Kevin Mileski.
Come out to the Tree for a rare Wednesday night show (March 26th - 7:30pm) with Lou Brown. Lou wins the award for "longest distance traveled to play at the Tree"... Lou brings her musical talent all the way from England to share with us. We want to show Lou why musicians across the country (and the world) are wanting to play at the Tree... the amazing audiences we create!!!
Right after Lou is YOUR chance to take the Shaky Tree stage... at the Shaky Tree Community Open-Mic, March 28th-8pm. We are cultivating local talent and building community in one jam-packed night. If you are interested in participating... show up at 7:30 and sign-up for a 10 min slot (you may get multiple slots if available, but please keep each spot to ten min or less)... performers start at 8pm. If you have ever wondered what its like to share your songs, poems, comedy, magic tricks (or about anything else) with the world from a stage... then our Community Open-Mic is your chance. This is a safe and supportive atmosphere (we ask all participants and audience members to work towards this), so stop by and check it out.
Winter is on its way out... what better way to celebrate than to get out and see friends and family at Shaky Tree Coffee... where Coffee, Creativity & Community meet.
However, don't be too sad... you can still catch plenty of GREAT music this month... starting Saturday the 8th, with Mat D. This is a re-scheduled show that you don't want to miss, and Mat will put on a show that will be heartfelt as well as fun. Catch one of the best, in a growing movement of mid-west song writers, for his second appearance on our stage.
Next in line is Kevin Mileski (canceled). This Colorado based singer/songwriter is sure to create a fan-base in Spencer, with his finger-style guitar playing and vocals hailed as, the "new style for any generation". Come support live music in Spencer March 15th, with Kevin Mileski.
Come out to the Tree for a rare Wednesday night show (March 26th - 7:30pm) with Lou Brown. Lou wins the award for "longest distance traveled to play at the Tree"... Lou brings her musical talent all the way from England to share with us. We want to show Lou why musicians across the country (and the world) are wanting to play at the Tree... the amazing audiences we create!!!
Right after Lou is YOUR chance to take the Shaky Tree stage... at the Shaky Tree Community Open-Mic, March 28th-8pm. We are cultivating local talent and building community in one jam-packed night. If you are interested in participating... show up at 7:30 and sign-up for a 10 min slot (you may get multiple slots if available, but please keep each spot to ten min or less)... performers start at 8pm. If you have ever wondered what its like to share your songs, poems, comedy, magic tricks (or about anything else) with the world from a stage... then our Community Open-Mic is your chance. This is a safe and supportive atmosphere (we ask all participants and audience members to work towards this), so stop by and check it out.
Winter is on its way out... what better way to celebrate than to get out and see friends and family at Shaky Tree Coffee... where Coffee, Creativity & Community meet.
Tuesday, January 01, 2008
BIG Weekend!!!
December is generally a busy time of year, filled with many events and special occasions... The weekend of December 14-16th was a trio of such events at the Tree.
The weekend started off with the saying, "third time is the charm" in bringing Truck Stop Souvenir to the Shaky Tree stage. After being scheduled for two other occasions and being foiled by illness, and vehicle breakdown (you can't really call yourself a musician unless you have car trouble along the way)... we were finally treated to the pleasures of listening to this married duo. I particularly enjoyed hearing other "coast dwellers" (they moved to Iowa from Seattle) talk about the joys that could be found in rural Iowa life.
The next night I was blown away by the presence and depth of performance by Noah Earle. Chad and I met Noah's brother this summer in Portland, and he mentioned that Noah played Iowa a fair bit and we should get him up to the Tree... I did not know at the time we would be in for such a show. We also didn't know that when we rescheduled Truck Stop Souvenir and Noah for the same weekend, that they knew each other. This was a highly anticipated weekend that lived up to its billing in every respect. Both nights of music pushed me to want to elevate my own music. I am continually amazed at the amazing talent I have heard while in Spencer.
To round out the weekend we had a "caucus-know-how" night. Growing up in the NW, I had never caucused... nor did I really understand how it worked. As this "circus", known as the Iowa campaign, progressed I found I was not alone in my lack of understanding about the caucus. There are many who have lived here their whole lives and have never caucused. So, we got some of the campaign organizers from the different candidates in town, and we put together and evening to educate people about the process. This was not a night about Obama, Hilary, or Edwards (or any other presidential hopeful), but rather deciding the important race for which Shaky Tree drink should represent the Tree. The goal was to have a non-intimidating environment to understand the caucus, and hopefully make it more accessible to those who might not seek out the normal political channels. I also wanted to get people together (campaign organizers included) and do something "fun", and recognize no matter which side you are on (party, candidate, even nation)... we all need to be on the same team at some point... we are a community of people in need of many things, and the only way those things will happen is if we work together as people.
Results: 27 people turned out to caucus (on a cold Sunday night during the holidays... pretty good). Coffee had the most supporters (by one), but will be sending the same number of delegates (4) as Chai Latte (who picked up the Tea supporters when it was clear that Tea would not be a viable candidate). Latte had the remaining delegates (3) after bringing Hot Chocolate supporters on board. There was some great campaigning for drinks, "Coffee fueling the American worker", the "Health benefits, and Popularity of Tea around the world". All in all it was a fun night, and a great community event at the Tree that I was proud to be a part of.
Check out our article in the Spencer Daily Reporter.
The weekend started off with the saying, "third time is the charm" in bringing Truck Stop Souvenir to the Shaky Tree stage. After being scheduled for two other occasions and being foiled by illness, and vehicle breakdown (you can't really call yourself a musician unless you have car trouble along the way)... we were finally treated to the pleasures of listening to this married duo. I particularly enjoyed hearing other "coast dwellers" (they moved to Iowa from Seattle) talk about the joys that could be found in rural Iowa life.
The next night I was blown away by the presence and depth of performance by Noah Earle. Chad and I met Noah's brother this summer in Portland, and he mentioned that Noah played Iowa a fair bit and we should get him up to the Tree... I did not know at the time we would be in for such a show. We also didn't know that when we rescheduled Truck Stop Souvenir and Noah for the same weekend, that they knew each other. This was a highly anticipated weekend that lived up to its billing in every respect. Both nights of music pushed me to want to elevate my own music. I am continually amazed at the amazing talent I have heard while in Spencer.
To round out the weekend we had a "caucus-know-how" night. Growing up in the NW, I had never caucused... nor did I really understand how it worked. As this "circus", known as the Iowa campaign, progressed I found I was not alone in my lack of understanding about the caucus. There are many who have lived here their whole lives and have never caucused. So, we got some of the campaign organizers from the different candidates in town, and we put together and evening to educate people about the process. This was not a night about Obama, Hilary, or Edwards (or any other presidential hopeful), but rather deciding the important race for which Shaky Tree drink should represent the Tree. The goal was to have a non-intimidating environment to understand the caucus, and hopefully make it more accessible to those who might not seek out the normal political channels. I also wanted to get people together (campaign organizers included) and do something "fun", and recognize no matter which side you are on (party, candidate, even nation)... we all need to be on the same team at some point... we are a community of people in need of many things, and the only way those things will happen is if we work together as people.
Results: 27 people turned out to caucus (on a cold Sunday night during the holidays... pretty good). Coffee had the most supporters (by one), but will be sending the same number of delegates (4) as Chai Latte (who picked up the Tea supporters when it was clear that Tea would not be a viable candidate). Latte had the remaining delegates (3) after bringing Hot Chocolate supporters on board. There was some great campaigning for drinks, "Coffee fueling the American worker", the "Health benefits, and Popularity of Tea around the world". All in all it was a fun night, and a great community event at the Tree that I was proud to be a part of.
Check out our article in the Spencer Daily Reporter.
Monday, December 10, 2007
Shaky Gear for the Holidays... or Whenever
Check out the Zazzle... you can now buy customizable Shaky Tree gear!!!
How it works:
Click on an item in the box below... Choose the product you are interested in, pick a style that suits you, purchase it... they make, and send it off to you. Easy.
Whether it is one button, or 50 postcards... You get cool gear, Shaky Tree doesn't have to hold onto a lot of expensive inventory, and TreeBed Design (me) gets a little percentage so he can eat (and keep doing fun projects like Shaky Tree ;-)
Look for more designs and fun stuff to appear...
buy unique gifts at Zazzle
How it works:
Click on an item in the box below... Choose the product you are interested in, pick a style that suits you, purchase it... they make, and send it off to you. Easy.
Whether it is one button, or 50 postcards... You get cool gear, Shaky Tree doesn't have to hold onto a lot of expensive inventory, and TreeBed Design (me) gets a little percentage so he can eat (and keep doing fun projects like Shaky Tree ;-)
Look for more designs and fun stuff to appear...
buy unique gifts at Zazzle
Friday, December 07, 2007
Better Late than Never Birthday Post
One year of Shaky Tree... wow!!! So much has been packed into that year, where do I even start? It has truly been a year of COFFEE, CREATIVITY, and COMMUNITY... and I couldn't really ask for anything more. That is not to say it has all gone perfectly, and anyone who has a "perfect" first year of business is lying about it ;-) However, the trick is taking the hard parts/the mistakes, and using them... growing stronger from the whole of your experience. You never can predict what you will gain from any journey (especially opening a business), but I can honestly say that I have been blessed by the things I have been a part of through Shaky Tree during year one... and I am truly excited to see what comes during year two (and beyond)!!!
Thanks so much to all who have added positive energy to Shaky Tree... whether through getting your morning cup with us, sharing your story as a visiting musician (or a regular at Open Mic), or lending a helping hand at some point. Shaky Tree has been a successful adventure because of the community that cares about having a place... a safe place to cultivate passionate living.
Thank you to the Quattlebaum crew... for allowing us the chance to come into their space, and the freedom to follow OUR passions.
Thank you ALL so much!!!
Thanks so much to all who have added positive energy to Shaky Tree... whether through getting your morning cup with us, sharing your story as a visiting musician (or a regular at Open Mic), or lending a helping hand at some point. Shaky Tree has been a successful adventure because of the community that cares about having a place... a safe place to cultivate passionate living.
Thank you to the Quattlebaum crew... for allowing us the chance to come into their space, and the freedom to follow OUR passions.
Thank you ALL so much!!!
Sunday, September 02, 2007
Shaky Art Show
Shaky Tree saw its first Art Show this weekend... and an entertaining sight it was. There was a beautiful range of artwork, and plenty of creativity pumping through the Shaky Tree veins. Friday was the reception, complete with "Goodwill Formal" (or anything else fabulous) attire, snacks, drinks, and laughs.
This was the first, and most certainly won't be the last Art Show of Shaky Tree... I look forward to what the next show brings.
This was the first, and most certainly won't be the last Art Show of Shaky Tree... I look forward to what the next show brings.
Wednesday, August 08, 2007
TreeBus and a RAGBRAI recap
So it has been awhile since a post has been posted... this is mostly due to the craziness that the past months!!! However, with that craziness has come some fun stuff.
First... there was a trip out to Portland to buy a bus (see pic) from a group called Sharedroute... then we painted it up (see pic). Then this little bike ride called RAGBRAI came to town. So we sold some coffee, had some good conversations and enjoyed the insanity. We enjoyed it soooo much, that Chad and I decided to jump in the bus and join in... so we followed them for a few days.
All was well... until it... well, wasn't. We had a little trouble with the bus. Yes, it wouldn't start. Luckily we were in Cedar Falls and not the middle of no where. This also brought the high light of square dancing to the Nadas... good times. We did manage to get the bus fixed and get back to Spencer.
Now the summer is winding down and we are gearing up for a busy fall... lots of music, coffee and fun.
First... there was a trip out to Portland to buy a bus (see pic) from a group called Sharedroute... then we painted it up (see pic). Then this little bike ride called RAGBRAI came to town. So we sold some coffee, had some good conversations and enjoyed the insanity. We enjoyed it soooo much, that Chad and I decided to jump in the bus and join in... so we followed them for a few days.
All was well... until it... well, wasn't. We had a little trouble with the bus. Yes, it wouldn't start. Luckily we were in Cedar Falls and not the middle of no where. This also brought the high light of square dancing to the Nadas... good times. We did manage to get the bus fixed and get back to Spencer.
Now the summer is winding down and we are gearing up for a busy fall... lots of music, coffee and fun.
Sunday, April 29, 2007
Hit the Spot
Been meaning to get a post up for a while... so, today is the day. This weekend Spencer (just named as one of the top 10 places to live) was host to the Spot Program, a really neat deal with the University of Iowa. This was great on on many levels... One, it was nice to have people in who really appreciate what we are doing. Two, David Gonzalez, the performer they brought to town, was telling stories and sharing in a way that is right in line with the roots of Shaky Tree. He is teaching kids through stories (and music), and the kids were eating it up! Chad got to jump up on stage and share one of his songs. All in all it was a great connection and boost of positive energy for all involved.
Thursday, March 01, 2007
Shaky Snowman
It will take more than a blizzard to keep Shaky Tree from the call of duty... ok, mostly we would just rather hang out at the Tree than sit at home. Today saw the birth, and sad demise of Shaky the Snowman. As one customer commented, "Shaky was a good snowman. We should all be glad that he had the opportunity to bring a smile to our faces during his short time with us." well said Darby. He had a Java Jacket nose and two pucks (that is what you get after the water has gone through the coffee to make the espresso) for eyes. It appears that Shaky Tree is the only business open today (even the gas stations are closed)... hey, people need their coffee ;-)
Monday, January 29, 2007
Shaky Tree Song Writer's Circle
Got Songs?
Well, here is a chance to share them, work on them, get feedback on them... and hear where others are at in their song-writing process. We are calling this the Shaky Tree Song Writer's Circle, and our first evening will be Thursday Feb. 1 (and hopefully each first Thursday of the month).
This will happen after hours at the Tree (7:30pm), so it will just be songwriters, and those passionate about song-writing that want to contribute positive energy to the group. We want to build a safe environment to explore song-writing, and create a community that values the sharing of those songs. All levels are welcome, from those who have a few scribbles in a notebook (and maybe aren't even sure if they could be songs) to those who have been selling CDs for years... we all can benefit from sharing the process.
Chad Elliott and I (micah- TreeBed Music) will be providing some of the structure for the group, but this will be an organic process that goes where the group takes it.
If you have any questions feel free to e-mail us at shakytree@mac.com
Please share this information with anyone you might now that would be interested.
Well, here is a chance to share them, work on them, get feedback on them... and hear where others are at in their song-writing process. We are calling this the Shaky Tree Song Writer's Circle, and our first evening will be Thursday Feb. 1 (and hopefully each first Thursday of the month).
This will happen after hours at the Tree (7:30pm), so it will just be songwriters, and those passionate about song-writing that want to contribute positive energy to the group. We want to build a safe environment to explore song-writing, and create a community that values the sharing of those songs. All levels are welcome, from those who have a few scribbles in a notebook (and maybe aren't even sure if they could be songs) to those who have been selling CDs for years... we all can benefit from sharing the process.
Chad Elliott and I (micah- TreeBed Music) will be providing some of the structure for the group, but this will be an organic process that goes where the group takes it.
If you have any questions feel free to e-mail us at shakytree@mac.com
Please share this information with anyone you might now that would be interested.
Sunday, January 28, 2007
Shaky Tree News
We had a great article in the Discover! magazine this week... it can be a little scary when you have SO much information you want to get out to people, but this well crafted piece made for a nice introduction to Shaky Tree Coffee.
Monday, January 22, 2007
Barista Competition
Shaky Tree attended our first Midwest Regional Barista Competition (MWRBC) hosted by the Roasterie, in the awesome space at Boulevard Brewery. This was a great weekend for meeting other crazy coffee folks, learning lots, and having fun. From a competitive standpoint, it was a "go through the motions" shot in the dark for me (micah)... with most of the competitors training for months or even since last years competition, 3 weeks was not going to be good enough. You can check out more of my personal thoughts on my blog. However, in the bigger picture... everything that we set out to accomplish, we did. Shaky Tree helped the event happen by volunteering in several different capacities, and we gained valuable experience for future competitions.
The Barista competition is a great way to raise the bar of excellence in your shop. I have already felt the tug of judges comments today as I have made coffee for customers. For a quick explanation of the competition take a look at my post on our MySpace page blog. We met others who are working towards excellence, and initiated many bonds to create community around that passion. The Shaky Tree crew is better than we were last week... and we'll continue to push to get even better.
The Barista competition is a great way to raise the bar of excellence in your shop. I have already felt the tug of judges comments today as I have made coffee for customers. For a quick explanation of the competition take a look at my post on our MySpace page blog. We met others who are working towards excellence, and initiated many bonds to create community around that passion. The Shaky Tree crew is better than we were last week... and we'll continue to push to get even better.
Saturday, December 16, 2006
Songwriter's Night
Tonight was a perfect example of the part a coffeehouse can play in a community, and what fun we had playing our part!!! Song writing is such a personal thing, but it really gets elevated to a new experience when you share it. Not all songs are perfect. However, those of us who write songs have some purpose for each creation... to interpret or explain something, outlet an emotion, tell a story... there are as many reasons to write a song as there are songs out there. When a community comes together to provide a safe place to share those songs... it is special. We connect with each other, and get to tap into other people's perspectives. I have yet to hear a song from a songwriter, who was authentically trying to express themselves, that I couldn't pull something from. I have sat through some lousy songs, and worse singers (of which I have been)... but if they are pouring out what was honestly in their heart, I felt some connection to it. We are not all rock stars. But we ALL have stories. We all have had joyful, and painful experiences. We are all connected to a common life experience, which we all see differently. And music is most certainly at the core of each of us. At Shaky Tree we hope to build a long tradition of giving a safe, respectful place to share those stories... so if you shared tonight, thank you... if you have some songs, or poetry or whatever, tucked away... think about how you might share it in the future. Perhaps your role is to sit and soak it all in... we have plenty of room for that as well (and listeners with open ears and hearts are hard to find these days... so we will take pride in having that at Shaky Tree). Thanks to all who came tonight, and those who weren't able... keep an eye out for next time... there will most certainly be a next time.
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