My Road Back

So happy I decided to create music again. Being away since 1995 really took a tole on me. But that story is for another time.

August 2010, I purchased an Akai EWI4000s. It is really a well made instrument. I adapted well to the responsive fingering and have enjoyed the times I’ve played it. But I never got comfortable with the air resistance. That alone held me back from playing it more. Playing semi-pro woodwinds for 25+ years leaves a preference for how things should feel.

I also purchased Reason at around that time and started reacquainting myself with sequencers. (I first used one of the early sequencers available for MacOS in the mid-80s. ) Reason is really fantastic. I quickly got familiar and started recording tracks. But the problems I was having with the EWI held me back from spending any significant time creating.

I do have a keyboard controller so used it in conjunction with the EWI, but it wasn’t enough.

Then I discovered the Eigenharp. Such a strange and interesting instrument! It combines everything I enjoy about creating music: breath controller, responsive keys, connection to vast array of patches, interfaces with real world music creation software, ability to adapt to most modes of play.

Aside from a few months of software problems, this instrument has enabled me to grow again as a musician. It’s enabled me to create music that speaks to me.

I’ve expanded my Eigenharp collection to both the small and mid-sized versions. Perhaps I’ll add the larger version down the road.

I’ve also recently added Reaper as my primary DAW. It’s fast, flexible and just plain awesome to work with.

My keyboard and EWI have not been powered up in 4 months. I really don’t have the need. This is all the testimonial to the Eigenharp that I can provide. This and a association with a wonderfully, creative group of players – it’s great to be on the road again.