Vlog #11 – How Do I Compose For Film?

Musical Meanderings

I recently asked my fans if they could help me out by suggesting some vlogging topics – as I’m trying to be better about vlogging more often and more consistently.  One of the topics that was brought up quite a lot was me sharing with you how I compose for film, and what my studio set- up.

My methods for composing for film and for my own music are quite different  – so talking about how I compose for myself is an entirely different vlog for another day. But I hope you enjoy this inside little glimpse on just a small part of the process I go through when composing for film. Enjoy!…

P.S. Are you subscribed to my Youtube channel yet? 🙂

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Dehydration or Electrolyte Depletion?: Staying Healthy in Hot Yoga

From the Ocean to the Mat

Dehydration or Electrolyte Depletion?: Staying Healthy in Hot Yoga

It’s common sense that performance in a hot yoga class is closely linked to hydration.  Try embracing the present when the present includes a splitting headache, a screaming calf, or debilitating fatigue.

Almost anyone who has practiced hot yoga has experienced some adverse symptom at one point or another related to dehydration- fatigue, extreme thirst, or muscle cramping.  And anyone who has experienced these symptoms has probably heard a host of solutions and remedies from people: you need to drink more water, you need to buy x product, you need to eat more of x food … and the list goes on.  But before you know which remedy to employ, you need to trace the problem back to its origins.

What really happens to your body during hot yoga? What is the difference between being dehydrated or experiencing electrolyte depletion? Are there different physical cues for each…

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Turn Your Walk into a Workout

From the Ocean to the Mat

The most commonly cited obstacle to regular exercise is lack of time. Factoring in preparation, travel, and shower time, even a 45-minute or 1 hour class can easily take a couple hours out of your day. Not to mention the financial and logistical issues of paying for the class, covering travel expenses, and figuring out childcare.

But most people would agree they have time for a 20-30 minute walk – whether around your neighborhood or a nearby park.

And if you’re already going for a walk, why not take the opportunity to get a full-body workout in?

Below I’ve outlined a four-circuit program that can be completed anywhere, with no equipment needed. Each exercise group has a corresponding video (linked to Youtube). The videos have been sped up for faster viewing, but the more slowly you can do each exercise, the better!

Each individual exercise should be repeated about 8-10 times…

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10 Things You Can Do To Be a Better Artist

Musical Meanderings

Jennifer Thomas-581KAT 2As a composer/recording artist with four albums released and a growing music career, I am immersed daily in a global community of musicians that contains everything from amateurs to seasoned professionals.  I get to see a lot of really amazing stuff, some things that are maybe not-so amazing, and everything in between.

Before doing what I do now though, I performed in the world of Classical music (violin and piano) for about 20 years before discovering I wanted to have my own voice and compose my own music.  I’m now 10 years into my composing/recording career, and I only recently started finally feeling like I’m starting to get it – you know – this thing called the music business.

And while I know I’m definitely far from learning everything I still need to learn, I wanted to share with you what I HAVE learned thus far.

I’ve actually been wanting to write this blog post for quite some…

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EPR Radio Nomination and your support

Musical Meanderings

It’s that time of year again when Enlightened Piano Radio is gearing up for their annual awards for 2016. Last year all of YOU were so amazing and sent in emails requesting that I be nominated for “Best Piano Instrumental Album”, and guess what? Not only was I nominated, but I also won and was able to perform at Carnegie Hall in New York. 

carnegie

They are accepting nomination emails now for 2016, and you can send your nomination in until February 29th. I’m not twisting anyone’s arm, but it would be mean a lot to me if I had your support.

If you feel so inclined, please send an email to:

cathyroakes@hotmail.com

Please include “EPR NOMINATION FOR BEST HOLIDAY ALBUM” in the subject line, and let them know you are wanting to nominate Jennifer Thomas for Winter Symphony for Best Holiday Album.

Nominations MUST be received no later than…

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New Music Video – “Alleluia”

Musical Meanderings

I’m so happy to present you with my newest music video. This is “Alleluia”, an original piece by me featured on my new Christmas album “Winter Symphony”. Featuring soloist Felicia Farerre, the Ensign Chorus, players from the Utah Symphony and Salt Lake City Pops Orchestra.

Also starring Carolynne May Guinup as the runaway teen, and Garren Pocock as the little shepherd boy.  Directed by Ryan K. McNeal, cinematography by Tel Stewart (The Piano Guys). I hope you enjoy!

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