Random Thoughts http://hearsteeldrumsplay.com/blog.cfm Fri, 18 May 2012 09:01:00 GMT http://bandzoogle.com The alto voice of Mrs Eboni Joplin http://hearsteeldrumsplay.com/blog.cfm?feature=545968&postid=2091046 Hello Music Friends,I'm very happy to share some footage from my church's Mother's Day Concert 2012. This clip features The Faith Center Church's Choir with Ebony Joplin singing lead vocals. I was fortunate to have Mrs Joplin sing "Oh Come All Ye Faithful" on my debut christmas album.&nbsp;Click below to listen on itunes<a href="http://itunes.apple.com/us/artist/minsky-delmonte/id485121376">http://itunes.apple.com/us/artist/minsky-delmonte/id485121376Nonetheless enjoy the alto voice of Mrs Joplin and The Faith Center Church Choir.Best,Minsky

Hello Music Friends,
I'm very happy to share some footage from my church's Mother's Day Concert 2012. This clip features The Faith Center Church's Choir with Ebony Joplin singing lead vocals. I was fortunate to have Mrs Joplin sing "Oh Come All Ye Faithful" on my debut christmas album. 
Click below to listen on itunes
http://itunes.apple.com/us/artist/minsky-delmonte/id485121376

Nonetheless enjoy the alto voice of Mrs Joplin and The Faith Center Church Choir.

Best,
Minsky
]]> Fri, 18 May 2012 09:01:00 GMT F3E0F7443407365B72B9CA449C2E0022 Making Progress with Creating Video Adverts http://hearsteeldrumsplay.com/blog.cfm?feature=545968&postid=2046817 Hello Music Friends, One of the things that I enjoy doing is shooting and editing video. Its been a fun process gathering content to create advertisements. Here is a look at my latest production for my church- The Faith Center Church Mother's Day Concert. I'm still experimenting with filming by using different types of video cameras and external microphones. Im also working with syncing voice overs. My next step is to fiddle with lighting and elaborate on panning, zooming and angles. The fun/learning experience continues. Best, Minsky
]]> Fri, 04 May 2012 10:10:00 GMT 3138CBF89070FC34889DE161BC30206F A lil music in Whitney's honor- "My Love Is Your Love" Minsky Delmonte-Steel Drums http://hearsteeldrumsplay.com/blog.cfm?feature=545968&postid=2027785
]]> Sat, 28 Apr 2012 09:33:00 GMT AABEEAE546FA2911925E0863230086A1 "Brilliant Kids and their Magic Drums" http://hearsteeldrumsplay.com/blog.cfm?feature=545968&postid=2011939 <a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-38FjzrPh3l8/T5XrsdDICLI/AAAAAAAAASw/lHx8OKZQ0tw/s1600/Summit.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;">&nbsp; Hello Music FriendsOn April 17th I traveled to <a href="http://www.summitacademies.com/">Summit Academy Middle School in Akron, OH to perform with a group of fantastic youths. In addition to being a guest artist with the "Steel Dragons", &nbsp;I had the good fortune of seeing the kids perform their spring play "The Lion King". &nbsp;Personally speaking, the most captivating part of the whole experience was that these exceptional students are part of a program that is specifically designed for students with AD/HD, <a href="http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/aspergers-syndrome/DS00551">Asperger's Syndrome and related disorders. The majority of the students are on an Individual Educational Plan (IEP) that helps them attain goals based on their needs. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; The steel drum band is an after school program that is highly sought out by the kids. The standards of being a band member are very high in that it requres a certain GPA, self-controlled behavior dedication to practicing and reliable attendance. &nbsp;Although the majority of students who seek out the program face behavioral challenges, come from abusive/unstable families, battle social adaptation skills and learning deficits, &nbsp;when it comes to playing the steel drum and being a part of the band, those conditions are non existent and become irrelevant. The band members make concious efforts to adhere to the bands poilicies so that they may continue participating. &nbsp;I learned of one of the students who had experienced alot of rejection and turmoil for most of her &nbsp;life, who made the statement " The steel band is the only thing in this school that I want to be a part of ".In &nbsp;chatting with the steel drum band director, Mrs Angel Lawrie, I learned and observed that the students had gravitated towards the steel drum and that it has been a tool that has helped them build cohesion amongst the band and develop an appreciation for themselves, their peers and for music. I found it very interesting that the kids experienced a calming effect from the steel drum and its tone. The kids were also quite adept at relating to the pattern of the note layouts.While I was equally impressed with the quality of music being taught and played by the band, I must say that their enthusiasm for what they were doing was terrific. &nbsp;On the night of the performance, &nbsp;the concert hall was filled with over 300 supportive parents, relatives and friends. &nbsp;Mrs Lawrie told me that they had moved the concert to a larger facility (The Shaw JCC) in order to accomodate the bigger crowds. During their first few years of existence, they were not able to handle the outpouring of concertgoers as the school grounds were much too small-Nor did they anticipate such successful attendance.I also got to shake hands and congratulate many of the students afterwards. I made friends with a young fella named Isaac. Isaac earned one of the lead roles in the school play- " The Lion King ". &nbsp;Isaac shared with me that proir to coming to Summit Academy Middle School, he was constantly bullied by the students at his previous school. The combination of his peers not understanding his special needs and just being at a stage where kids can be very mean really had made him go into recluse. &nbsp;All of that changed when he got to the academy. He felt as though he was able to "breath" &nbsp;and be himslef again. According to him, It seemed as though the students and faculty knew exactly what he needed. As a result of being in such a comfortable, nurturing environement, he was able to explore his talent and his love for acting. I must say that he played the role of "Scar" with convincing passion. It was an honor to meet his beaming parents and to have him autograph my program as a momento of his outstanding progress.I must say that the whole experience was very rewarding. I felt pride about the steel drum as an instrument and it was amazing to me how the kids embraced it. I had never known of it being used in such a setting with such profound effects. &nbsp;I learned so much from the kids and I will always remember my visit. I look forward to being a part of their September concert too. I'll have to practice hard and be prepared, because I know that they will be!&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Be sure to click on the link below. The article speaks more about Summit Academy and features and audio interview with Mrs Lawrie.&nbsp; <a href="http://www.wksu.org/news/story">http://www.wksu.org/news/story&nbsp;Summit Academy steel drums are built, tuned and maintained by Steve Lawrie of Pantuner.<a href="http://www.pantuner.com/">www.pantuner.comBest,Minsky<a href="http://www.hearsteeldrumsplay.com/">www.hearsteeldrumsplay.com

  Hello Music Friends

On April 17th I traveled to Summit Academy Middle School in Akron, OH to perform with a group of fantastic youths. In addition to being a guest artist with the "Steel Dragons",  I had the good fortune of seeing the kids perform their spring play "The Lion King".  Personally speaking, the most captivating part of the whole experience was that these exceptional students are part of a program that is specifically designed for students with AD/HD, Asperger's Syndrome and related disorders. The majority of the students are on an Individual Educational Plan (IEP) that helps them attain goals based on their needs.      
      
The steel drum band is an after school program that is highly sought out by the kids. The standards of being a band member are very high in that it requres a certain GPA, self-controlled behavior dedication to practicing and reliable attendance.  Although the majority of students who seek out the program face behavioral challenges, come from abusive/unstable families, battle social adaptation skills and learning deficits,  when it comes to playing the steel drum and being a part of the band, those conditions are non existent and become irrelevant. The band members make concious efforts to adhere to the bands poilicies so that they may continue participating.  I learned of one of the students who had experienced alot of rejection and turmoil for most of her  life, who made the statement " The steel band is the only thing in this school that I want to be a part of ".

In  chatting with the steel drum band director, Mrs Angel Lawrie, I learned and observed that the students had gravitated towards the steel drum and that it has been a tool that has helped them build cohesion amongst the band and develop an appreciation for themselves, their peers and for music. I found it very interesting that the kids experienced a calming effect from the steel drum and its tone. The kids were also quite adept at relating to the pattern of the note layouts.

While I was equally impressed with the quality of music being taught and played by the band, I must say that their enthusiasm for what they were doing was terrific.  On the night of the performance,  the concert hall was filled with over 300 supportive parents, relatives and friends.  Mrs Lawrie told me that they had moved the concert to a larger facility (The Shaw JCC) in order to accomodate the bigger crowds. During their first few years of existence, they were not able to handle the outpouring of concertgoers as the school grounds were much too small-Nor did they anticipate such successful attendance.

I also got to shake hands and congratulate many of the students afterwards. I made friends with a young fella named Isaac. Isaac earned one of the lead roles in the school play- " The Lion King ".  Isaac shared with me that proir to coming to Summit Academy Middle School, he was constantly bullied by the students at his previous school. The combination of his peers not understanding his special needs and just being at a stage where kids can be very mean really had made him go into recluse.  All of that changed when he got to the academy. He felt as though he was able to "breath"  and be himslef again. According to him, It seemed as though the students and faculty knew exactly what he needed. As a result of being in such a comfortable, nurturing environement, he was able to explore his talent and his love for acting. I must say that he played the role of "Scar" with convincing passion. It was an honor to meet his beaming parents and to have him autograph my program as a momento of his outstanding progress.

I must say that the whole experience was very rewarding. I felt pride about the steel drum as an instrument and it was amazing to me how the kids embraced it. I had never known of it being used in such a setting with such profound effects.  I learned so much from the kids and I will always remember my visit. I look forward to being a part of their September concert too. I'll have to practice hard and be prepared, because I know that they will be!
     
Be sure to click on the link below. The article speaks more about Summit Academy and features and audio interview with Mrs Lawrie.





Summit Academy steel drums are built, tuned and maintained by Steve Lawrie of Pantuner.
www.pantuner.com



Best,
Minsky
www.hearsteeldrumsplay.com














]]> Tue, 24 Apr 2012 06:10:00 GMT 0C7839398726C2D9D1C75D35CC4308BF "Time to Get this Show on the Road" http://hearsteeldrumsplay.com/blog.cfm?feature=545968&postid=2000130 Hello Music Friends,Many people ask "Where am I playing next?" with the hopes of catching some live steel drum music.&nbsp;I'd be so happy for you to attend an event where I might be performing.&nbsp;Click on the link below for a glimpse of my performance schedule.<a href="http://www.hearsteeldrumsplay.com/calendar">www.hearsteeldrumsplay.com/calendarBest,Minsky

Many people ask "Where am I playing next?" with the hopes of catching some live steel drum music.
 I'd be so happy for you to attend an event where I might be performing.

 Click on the link below for a glimpse of my performance schedule.


Best,
Minsky
]]> Fri, 20 Apr 2012 10:28:00 GMT 765B4EB95682C778154186417BF79B03 The Steel Drum as a Vehicle to Joy http://hearsteeldrumsplay.com/blog.cfm?feature=545968&postid=1985910 Hello Music Friends,There are many stories of the power of music. Such a divine gift that can be used for good and bad. The following article writes about band director Angel Lawrie and her husband Stevie Lawrie, and how they use the beautiful steel drum as a vehicle to help special needs students explore the instrument and experience the joys of music. This is a good one.Read the full article here.&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wksu.org/news/story/31310">http://www.wksu.org/news/story<a href="http://www.wksu.org/news/images/31310/16012_squarefeature.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;">Angel Laurie pauses before leading the Summit Academy Steel Dragons in an arrangement written by her husband, Steve. This is the band's second year performing at the Akron school that serves students with Asperger's, ADHD and similar challenges.Courtesy of Valerie BrownBest,Minsky&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;
Hello Music Friends,

There are many stories of the power of music. Such a divine gift that can be used for good and bad. The following article writes about band director Angel Lawrie and her husband Stevie Lawrie, and how they use the beautiful steel drum as a vehicle to help special needs students explore the instrument and experience the joys of music. This is a good one.

Read the full article here.



Angel Laurie pauses before leading the Summit Academy Steel Dragons in an arrangement written by her husband, Steve. This is the band's second year performing at the Akron school that serves students with Asperger's, ADHD and similar challenges.
Courtesy of Valerie Brown


Best,
Minsky



                                                                                     












]]> Tue, 17 Apr 2012 00:34:00 GMT E6C0C247E0ADCBD814F263524A3EE85B http://hearsteeldrumsplay.com/blog.cfm?feature=545968&postid=1815351 <a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wqTFX4GJ_6o/T0rFX2lXZVI/AAAAAAAAASg/ozV6pIql-yo/s1600/236246-trinidad-and-tobago-carnival-2012.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;">"King For A Day"On February 21 2012, the steel drum art form was at its pinnacle of adoration and acceptance by the people of Trinidad and Tobago. On that warm Saturday night the biggest steel band festival which is known as "Panorama" (in Trinidad the steel drum is more commonly known as Pan or steel pan) took place. The 12 &nbsp;rivaling bands competed &nbsp;for a cash prize and the title of Panorama Champs 2012. The event had all &nbsp;of the color and spectacle that Trinidad Carnival had to offer.&nbsp;&nbsp;What I find most interesting about &nbsp;the whole story is that, YES -The twin island nation is the land which gave birth to this lovely instrument. &nbsp;YES - Its the land that can rightfully deem themselves inventors of the only acoustic instrument of the 20th century. YES- its the land that has produced a musical instrument that has received accolades the world over by gracing the stages of legendary concert halls and executing the most difficult pieces of music from Classical to Calypso.&nbsp;YES- its the land whose instrument has become a part of University curriculums, and &nbsp;countless community programs. YES- its the land that has lent the world a tool that has united players of varying skill levels and of different socio- economic/ethnic backgrounds. YES- its &nbsp;the land who has given music a gift that makes people smile, dance, wave their hands and experience feelings of joy. YES- its land that despite all of the wonderful descriptions that &nbsp;I've listed, nonetheless, treats the steel drum as a SECOND CLASS CITIZEN.

"King For A Day"
On February 21 2012, the steel drum art form was at its pinnacle of adoration and acceptance by the people of Trinidad and Tobago. On that warm Saturday night the biggest steel band festival which is known as "Panorama" (in Trinidad the steel drum is more commonly known as Pan or steel pan) took place. The 12  rivaling bands competed  for a cash prize and the title of Panorama Champs 2012. The event had all  of the color and spectacle that Trinidad Carnival had to offer. 
 What I find most interesting about  the whole story is that, YES -The twin island nation is the land which gave birth to this lovely instrument.  YES - Its the land that can rightfully deem themselves inventors of the only acoustic instrument of the 20th century. YES- its the land that has produced a musical instrument that has received accolades the world over by gracing the stages of legendary concert halls and executing the most difficult pieces of music from Classical to Calypso. YES- its the land whose instrument has become a part of University curriculums, and  countless community programs. YES- its the land that has lent the world a tool that has united players of varying skill levels and of different socio- economic/ethnic backgrounds. YES- its  the land who has given music a gift that makes people smile, dance, wave their hands and experience feelings of joy. YES- its land that despite all of the wonderful descriptions that  I've listed, nonetheless, treats the steel drum as a SECOND CLASS CITIZEN.

]]> Mon, 27 Feb 2012 07:36:00 GMT 2F74972AC2B7836CB8D9B44015ED6321 From Classical To Calypso http://hearsteeldrumsplay.com/blog.cfm?feature=545968&postid=1807962 Hello Music Friends,This video is an awesome display of how well a solo steel drum can blend with a full orchestra.I often tell people that the steel drum is capable of playing ANY type of music. &nbsp;Although the public is generally accustomed to hearing &nbsp;steel drums &nbsp;in "beach" style music or playing &nbsp;tropical rhythms, they seldom get to hear virtuosos express themselves on the instrument. I often say that the instrument has the notes to make music but it is the skill of the player that brings it all to life. Liam Teague is such a virtuoso who expresses himself on the steel drum. In addition to being a standout musician he is also very well spoken. I think that those two attributes make him an asset to the art form. &nbsp;Have a listen as he joins the Taiwan National Symphony in a piece that was written especially for him.BestMinsky

Hello Music Friends,

This video is an awesome display of how well a solo steel drum can blend with a full orchestra.
I often tell people that the steel drum is capable of playing ANY type of music.  Although the public is generally accustomed to hearing  steel drums  in "beach" style music or playing  tropical rhythms, they seldom get to hear virtuosos express themselves on the instrument. I often say that the instrument has the notes to make music but it is the skill of the player that brings it all to life. Liam Teague is such a virtuoso who expresses himself on the steel drum. In addition to being a standout musician he is also very well spoken. I think that those two attributes make him an asset to the art form.  Have a listen as he joins the Taiwan National Symphony in a piece that was written especially for him.
Best
Minsky

]]> Fri, 24 Feb 2012 11:14:00 GMT 2B660BA4C160C55EB15837A85546EA88 Its not new, Just new to me..... http://hearsteeldrumsplay.com/blog.cfm?feature=545968&postid=1647829 Hi there Music Friends,For many years people had asked me if I had a CD. The answer had always been No.......until now!Feel free to listen and consider adding these songs to your music collection.Keep Well,Minsky
For many years people had asked me if I had a CD. The answer had always been No.......until now!
Feel free to listen and consider adding these songs to your music collection.

Keep Well,
Minsky

]]> Thu, 22 Dec 2011 11:37:00 GMT 8F636C69C1BF87C0F081830E8F9673B9 Something To Look Forward To-Minsky Delmonte Christmas CD http://hearsteeldrumsplay.com/blog.cfm?feature=545968&postid=1635790 Hello Music Friends,I must say that I'm quite pleased by the support and good comments that I've gotten from my debut Christmas CD "Something To Look Forward To". I was pleasantly surprised &nbsp;by how many people had shown an interest in my music and added a copy to their collection. Thank You so much for such an encouraging start. If you were not able to get a physical copy, would you consider downloading a digital version?&nbsp;If so, please Click on the link below<a href="http://www.hearsteeldrumsplay.com/">www.hearsteeldrumsplay.com&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JRqEo8jmmH8/Tu2UZ5zVuxI/AAAAAAAAASQ/Nm7m9gOwwx0/s1600/HearStealDrumsPlay_CDCover_20112Series.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;">Once again, Keep Well and may you enjoy your Holiday SeasonBest,Minsky Hello Music Friends,

I must say that I'm quite pleased by the support and good comments that I've gotten from my debut Christmas CD "Something To Look Forward To". I was pleasantly surprised  by how many people had shown an interest in my music and added a copy to their collection. Thank You so much for such an encouraging start. If you were not able to get a physical copy, would you consider downloading a digital version? 
If so, please Click on the link below
www.hearsteeldrumsplay.com  
Once again, Keep Well and may you enjoy your Holiday Season
Best,
Minsky

]]> Sun, 18 Dec 2011 14:32:00 GMT 6D73C2ACCBB9B7042F0B11196110CD4C Meet the Musicians-Dave and Kristie Lauderbaugh http://hearsteeldrumsplay.com/blog.cfm?feature=545968&postid=1627173 Although I'm primarily a soloist, making music is still a collective effort.Meet Kristie Lauderbaugh-the voice of Track 3-"Silent Night" and guitarist Dave Lauderbaugh.Listen to them share their approach to creating songs featured on my debut Christmas CD entitled&nbsp;" Something To look Forward To"Digital Downloads available <a href="http://www.hearsteeldrumsplay.com/store">here Although I'm primarily a soloist, making music is still a collective effort.
Meet Kristie Lauderbaugh-the voice of Track 3-"Silent Night" and guitarist Dave Lauderbaugh.
Listen to them share their approach to creating songs featured on my debut Christmas CD entitled
 " Something To look Forward To"

Digital Downloads available here



]]> Fri, 16 Dec 2011 03:00:00 GMT DF0DC4BB7763DDBF222BF97384F612D3 The World of Digital http://hearsteeldrumsplay.com/blog.cfm?feature=545968&postid=1619861 <a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DFYLgle5lHQ/TugiGHLE4CI/AAAAAAAAAR0/k_lc44_OWiM/s1600/HSP+Thanks+CD1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;">Hello Music FriendsThanks for your support in purchasing my debut Steel Drum Christmas CDClick <a href="http://www.hearsteeldrumsplay.com/store">here to listen and downloadHappy HolidaysMinsky

Hello Music Friends
Thanks for your support in purchasing my debut Steel Drum Christmas CD
Click here to listen and download

Happy Holidays
Minsky
]]> Wed, 14 Dec 2011 11:16:00 GMT 45A100FC57FAF976F05D63B23344F99A They are Here! http://hearsteeldrumsplay.com/blog.cfm?feature=545968&postid=1588037 Hello Music Friends,My very first CD release won't be complete without you.Best,Minsky Hello Music Friends,
My very first CD release won't be complete without you.

Best,
Minsky
]]> Tue, 06 Dec 2011 22:23:00 GMT 3006E8AB6007E2B8344F9DB03AC90ED9 http://hearsteeldrumsplay.com/blog.cfm?feature=545968&postid=1563376 FREE is for ME!<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--OzTxD0IY2w/TtWVJgHK2rI/AAAAAAAAARA/zVZBLBFytts/s1600/HSP+Free+Song+Friday.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;">Hello Music Friends,On Friday Dec 2, 2011 ALL of my email subscribers will be get to download Track 1 from my forthcoming Christmas CD entitled "Something To Look Forward To"Click on the link below to join. Don't be the last to find out......Join Our Email ListEmail: &nbsp;For <a href="http://www.constantcontact.com/jmml/email-marketing.jsp" style="color: #999999; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 10px; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">Email Marketing you can trust
FREE is for ME!

Hello Music Friends,
On Friday Dec 2, 2011 ALL of my email subscribers will be get to download Track 1 from my forthcoming Christmas CD entitled "Something To Look Forward To"
Click on the link below to join. Don't be the last to find out......





Join Our Email List
Email:  
















For Email Marketing you can trust


]]> Wed, 30 Nov 2011 09:30:00 GMT B9CC7583309F633930273B0E43B4A450 Official Logo http://hearsteeldrumsplay.com/blog.cfm?feature=545968&postid=1555666 Hello Music Friends,I wasn't sure if I had ever shared my official logo.&nbsp;Here it is.<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bkHXdCa3yn0/TtPMtcDVJLI/AAAAAAAAAQ4/zuePipKodmQ/s1600/HSP+SHIRT+LOGO.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;">Official NameHear Steel Drums PlayfeaturingMinsky Delmonte<a href="http://www.hearsteeldrumsplay.com/">www.hearsteeldrumsplay.com Hello Music Friends,
I wasn't sure if I had ever shared my official logo. 
Here it is.
Official Name
Hear Steel Drums Play
featuring
Minsky Delmonte
]]> Tue, 29 Nov 2011 01:02:00 GMT BC7648CE9927840E06ED830F2EACF70A Worship Time http://hearsteeldrumsplay.com/blog.cfm?feature=545968&postid=1552981 "I Give Myself Away"William McDowellHello Music FriendsPlaying in church has always been a favorite of mine. It has always been my opinion that gospel musicians are some of the baddest cats around. In this video I wanted to share a moment of worship by playing "I Give Myself Away" by William Mcdowell. This song was brought about as a way to celebrate the life on my dear Uncle who recently passed away. It was he who gave me my first steel drum and had always supported my musical process. One Love Uncle Rod.Best,Minsky "I Give Myself Away"
William McDowell

Hello Music Friends
Playing in church has always been a favorite of mine. It has always been my opinion that gospel musicians are some of the baddest cats around. In this video I wanted to share a moment of worship by playing "I Give Myself Away" by William Mcdowell. This song was brought about as a way to celebrate the life on my dear Uncle who recently passed away. It was he who gave me my first steel drum and had always supported my musical process. One Love Uncle Rod.

Best,
Minsky
]]> Mon, 28 Nov 2011 06:19:00 GMT 428D0A4CECB23E6FCDC86943E28C596D Do You have a steel drum Holiday CD for sale? Why yes I do....... http://hearsteeldrumsplay.com/blog.cfm?feature=545968&postid=1531875 Hello Music Friends,Happy Thanksgiving!Guess what? I have received an official notice from the CD manufacturing company that my debut Christmas CD is in production and will be delivered on Dec 5th 2011! My sincere thanks goes out to all of my family and friends who have been a part of this exciting musical journey. Let me be the first to tell you that your encouragement and kind words over the years have instilled a confidence in me that has helped propel me forward. With God's blessings, this is only the tip of the ice burgh.The official name of the Album is"Something To Look Forward To"As the excitement builds I wanted to share a little info on how you can get a copy of the CD. This is my first time being a part of the "music for sale" business and I too am navigating my way through the process. If it is your desire to purchase a copy, I will see to it that you can do so, whether I have to personally deliver the CD to you or supply you with an internet link as to where you can download individual songs or the entire album.From what I understand, some of the online retailers will include CD Baby, Amazon, Itunes, Rhapsody, Spotify etc. I will be sure to update you with the specific sites as that info becomes available.<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-74jxNcjL26k/TssALAiC3xI/AAAAAAAAAQw/6t2HyXiLOEM/s1600/HSP+CD+BABY+ART.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;">Here are some FAQs1 When will the album be available?Approx. Dec 5th 20112 How Much will it cost?$12 for the physical CD and $1.00 for the digital downloads(might be less at certain online retailers)3 How many songs are on the album?There are 7. Five traditional carols and two original Christmas flavored compositions. One is done in a slow "Old Time Soca" style and the other one is done in a "Roots Reggae" style.4. Are there only steel drums on the album?No. its primarily an instrumental album that features the steel drum, but there are several tracks that include two guest singers and a guest guitarist.5. Is it a professional recording? or did you record it in your bathroom and kitchen?Lol, it is a professional recording. The next album will be recorded in the bathroom and kitchen.....In the meanwhile, I will be sharing more background info with you. I'll be sharing official photoshoot media, graphic design mock ups, interviews with the musicians and most importantly-samples of how it sounds.Oh, I only pressed 100 copies, so act quickly if you want a physical CD for your collection.The best way to contact me is via <a href="http://www.hearsteeldrumsplay.com/contact">www.hearsteeldrumsplay.comUntil next time, keep well.Best,Minsky
Happy Thanksgiving!

Guess what? I have received an official notice from the CD manufacturing company that my debut Christmas CD is in production and will be delivered on Dec 5th 2011! My sincere thanks goes out to all of my family and friends who have been a part of this exciting musical journey. Let me be the first to tell you that your encouragement and kind words over the years have instilled a confidence in me that has helped propel me forward. With God's blessings, this is only the tip of the ice burgh.

The official name of the Album is
"Something To Look Forward To"

As the excitement builds I wanted to share a little info on how you can get a copy of the CD. This is my first time being a part of the "music for sale" business and I too am navigating my way through the process. If it is your desire to purchase a copy, I will see to it that you can do so, whether I have to personally deliver the CD to you or supply you with an internet link as to where you can download individual songs or the entire album.
From what I understand, some of the online retailers will include CD Baby, Amazon, Itunes, Rhapsody, Spotify etc. I will be sure to update you with the specific sites as that info becomes available.

Here are some FAQs

1 When will the album be available?
Approx. Dec 5th 2011

2 How Much will it cost?
$12 for the physical CD and $1.00 for the digital downloads(might be less at certain online retailers)

3 How many songs are on the album?
There are 7. Five traditional carols and two original Christmas flavored compositions. One is done in a slow "Old Time Soca" style and the other one is done in a "Roots Reggae" style.

4. Are there only steel drums on the album?
No. its primarily an instrumental album that features the steel drum, but there are several tracks that include two guest singers and a guest guitarist.

5. Is it a professional recording? or did you record it in your bathroom and kitchen?
Lol, it is a professional recording. The next album will be recorded in the bathroom and kitchen.....

In the meanwhile, I will be sharing more background info with you. I'll be sharing official photoshoot media, graphic design mock ups, interviews with the musicians and most importantly-samples of how it sounds.

Oh, I only pressed 100 copies, so act quickly if you want a physical CD for your collection.


The best way to contact me is via www.hearsteeldrumsplay.com

Until next time, keep well.

Best,
Minsky
]]> Tue, 22 Nov 2011 08:24:00 GMT CB7EE105F82E4B4556A0A10D4BD3F9B6 http://hearsteeldrumsplay.com/blog.cfm?feature=545968&postid=1524350 <a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3W1mNJtASTU/TshHWs2ViDI/AAAAAAAAAQo/qo4r5IsojoQ/s1600/HSP+Biz+card+front2+Low+res.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;">The Trump CardHello Music Friends,There was once a time that I had to create my own business cards. They were quite dull and basic. I knew that I would eventually need a better design and I as much as I loved to dabble with art and Photoshop, I didn't have the vision nor drive to produce what I considered a top-notch, great looking business card. Fortunately for me, I came across a the owner of Rozworks design firm. It just so happened that her daughter was a part of the community steel band program that I taught music to. The final result pictured above has opened so many doors for me. I can not tell you how many times that &nbsp;that business card created a "Wow" effect from people that I gave it to. It certainly made me feel good to be a part of such favorable reactions.A special thanks goes out to design firm Rozworks for the super business card design.Best,Minsky

The Trump Card
Hello Music Friends,

There was once a time that I had to create my own business cards. They were quite dull and basic. I knew that I would eventually need a better design and I as much as I loved to dabble with art and Photoshop, I didn't have the vision nor drive to produce what I considered a top-notch, great looking business card. Fortunately for me, I came across a the owner of Rozworks design firm. It just so happened that her daughter was a part of the community steel band program that I taught music to. The final result pictured above has opened so many doors for me. I can not tell you how many times that  that business card created a "Wow" effect from people that I gave it to. It certainly made me feel good to be a part of such favorable reactions.
A special thanks goes out to design firm Rozworks for the super business card design.

Best,
Minsky
]]> Sun, 20 Nov 2011 07:18:00 GMT D2DD633F127CD2DE96A03292AD5B5215 The making of a CD update http://hearsteeldrumsplay.com/blog.cfm?feature=545968&postid=1505255 Hello Music FriendsAs you know I'm currently working on a Christmas CD that will be released in Dec 2011.Here is a pictorial timeline of where I am in the process. If you would like to hear samples or even add the CD to your collection please send me a message at <a href="mailto:minsky@hearsteeldrumsplay.com">minsky@hearsteeldrumsplay.com&nbsp;so that I can reserve one of the limited &nbsp;physical CDs for you.&nbsp;visit<a href="http://www.hearsteeldrumsplay.com/">www.hearsteeldrumsplay.com<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RqrJhvd8Io4/TsKBFWb7ADI/AAAAAAAAAQg/aTefqdawW-8/s1600/HSP+CD+Progress.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> Hello Music Friends
As you know I'm currently working on a Christmas CD that will be released in Dec 2011.Here is a pictorial timeline of where I am in the process. If you would like to hear samples or even add the CD to your collection please send me a message at minsky@hearsteeldrumsplay.com so that I can reserve one of the limited  physical CDs for you. 
visit
www.hearsteeldrumsplay.com


]]> Tue, 15 Nov 2011 22:11:00 GMT C5F116D648443DA077ED68E586970BB2 Steel Drum Christmas Album Promo-Minsky Delmonte http://hearsteeldrumsplay.com/blog.cfm?feature=545968&postid=1480815 Hello Music Friends &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;On&nbsp;Nov 6,&nbsp;I went to a&nbsp;professional music studio&nbsp;and recorded some songs for my debut&nbsp;Christmas CD!&nbsp;&nbsp;Yep...its in the making. I'm really excited about how its shaping up. The&nbsp;next step&nbsp;is for the engineers to do their fancy mixing and mastering-which essentially is making it retail ready and nice sounding: sort of like putting Turtle Wax on a car after it has been washed.<a href="http://www.hearsteeldrumsplay.com/newphotos">&nbsp;Click here&nbsp;to see some photos from the studio.So far, I've taken some promo shots ( No myspace/facebook type bathroom mirror photos) that I'll send to Miss&nbsp;Anastasia Thomas&nbsp;of&nbsp;<a href="mailto:graphicmagic09@gmail.com?" linktype="2" style="color: blue; cursor: default;">Graphic Magic Ltd&nbsp;to use to design a CD cover. Once the disks are pressed I will make them available for you to listen to and hopefully consider purchasing. I'm planning on ordering about&nbsp;75 physical copies.(I'm not sure how well they will sell and I don't want to be stuck with a bucketload of CDs). The album will also be available for&nbsp;digital download&nbsp;so that you can add it directly to your computers, smartphones,&nbsp;ipods&nbsp;etc. I also filmed a short video of &nbsp;the&nbsp;recording session. If you watch it you will hear my newest&nbsp;original Christmas reggae song&nbsp;and see a few dance moves too.......Best,Minsky
Hello Music Friends    
    
       On Nov 6, I went to a professional music studio and recorded some songs for my debut Christmas CD!  Yep...its in the making. I'm really excited about how its shaping up. The next step is for the engineers to do their fancy mixing and mastering-which essentially is making it retail ready and nice sounding: sort of like putting Turtle Wax on a car after it has been washed. Click here to see some photos from the studio.

So far, I've taken some promo shots ( No myspace/facebook type bathroom mirror photos) that I'll send to Miss Anastasia Thomas of Graphic Magic Ltd to use to design a CD cover. Once the disks are pressed I will make them available for you to listen to and hopefully consider purchasing. I'm planning on ordering about 75 physical copies.(I'm not sure how well they will sell and I don't want to be stuck with a bucketload of CDs). The album will also be available for digital download so that you can add it directly to your computers, smartphones, ipods etc.

I also filmed a short video of  the recording session. If you watch it you will hear my newest original Christmas reggae song and see a few dance moves too.......

Best,
Minsky
]]> Wed, 09 Nov 2011 07:59:00 GMT 0A176E8725F5F86CF7AFE61F57C59366