The music scene.

The prevailing opinion among those I talk to about it is that the music scene here in NH is pretty nonexistent. I submit that the scene is what we make it. We have our share of musicians, and no lack of places to be heard, and even plenty of people who want to listen. The problem is, each of the three (musicians, venues, patrons) generally wants the 'scene' to be kickstarted by the ambitions of the other two.

There are exceptions on all three counts, and these are the trailblazers that are making the scene what they want it to be. Some examples:

Musicians - Linden Mazurka has been working hard for 2+ years, hosting an originals-only open mic in Meredith NH. Sky King hosts an open mic in Warren, and writes the Mountain Beat article for the Northcountry News, reviewing music and interviewing musicians here in the North Country (for which he is not compensated, to my knowledge).

Venues - Tony's Italian Grill in Thornton NH hit the ground running as a great venue for original performers. Giuseppe's in Meredith and the Sunset Grill in Campton have had open mic nights every week for as long as I can remember. Each of these venues recognizes the importance of regularly scheduled entertainment that people can count on.

Patrons - Speaking from my own experience, there are a few locals who really enjoy live music and can almost always be seen at my shows. They come out to have a good time, and they buy food and drink while they are there. (A personal shout out here to Mike B and Sara, Susan, Raf, Sabre, Harry, and everyone who goes out of their way to hear me do my thing. Thank you all so much.)

Each of these lists can go on, for sure. But the point is, we are the scene, and the scene is us. Let's not waste time wishing things were different or easier, and get to the business of being awesome.