LP RhythMix 6-pc. Rhythm Kit Set

2 yrs. & up. The amazing variety of great sounding instruments is everything a child needs to create a complete rhythm section! Perfect for a single child or a parade full of children, this great kit includes a handled drum, jingle stick, triangle, tone block, two Chick-itas, two mallets, and a child-sized backpack for convenient storage. Complete with musical activity booklet.

As film actress Gwyneth Paltrow and Chef Mario Batali are touring Spain seeking the best Spanish tapas and seafood dishes as part of a new reality television show, here in New York we don't even have to leave the city to experience this significant segment of the culinary culture of Spain.

"Tapas," "small bites," "pintxo," "cichetti," and now "stuzzichini": no matter how you say it, New York is definitely in the throes of a love affair with small dishes, usually accompanied by a wine from the appropriate region. Although the cost of these small plates can add up quickly, especially while sitting at a bar with a best buddy, most tapas menus sport combination plates, which often represent a great value. Share a couple of these and a bottle (or carafe, quartino, mezzo, flight) and it's a great way to spend an evening.

Here are my suggestions for ten Tapas Bars and Restaurants Deals in New York City:

1. Sangria 46

This Spanish newcomer is receiving raves from theatergoers and neighborhood diners alike for its authentic Spanish cuisine as well as its lovely backyard garden. Choose from the extensive Tapas menu, or order from the Pre-theater menu, which features several choices, including Vegetable Paella, Mussels Diablo, and Churasco (skirt steak). Three courses for $26.95 are served all day and evening.

2. Costa del Sol

Taking its flavors from Northwest Spain's Galicia region, the menu at Costa del Sol is filled with true Spanish dishes. Fans may not be able to agree on their favorites, which include Paella Valenciana with Lobster, Bacalau (codfish) with Green Sauce and Asparagus Puree, and the Madrid NY Sirloin and Lobster Tail combination.

But, most agree that being just on the fringe of the Theater District has saved this restaurant from the cliched themes of many of the more central theater spots. The Tapas menu is also authentic and varied, and you can enjoy a great DiningFever deal of 15% off the entire check.

3. Sol y Sombra

Fast becoming a neighborhood favorite, this Upper West Side newcomer offers a large selection of tapas, both hot and cold, and authentic Spanish entrees as well.

It's easy to design a great meal of small plates to share, and many say the Pulpo a la Gallego (Galician-style Octopus), the Queso Manchego accompanied by raisin bread and sliced apples and the Codorniz En Escabeche (marinated quail presented with mixed salad and roasted figs) keep them coming back for more. Enjoy this exclusive offer from DiningFever - 15% off entire check.

4. Azafran

Both international guests and neighborhood fans alike have hailed Azafran and its ever-changing menu as one of New York's top Spanish restaurants. Drawing inspiration from the many diverse culinary regions of Spain, Azafran's specialties feature a unique brand of authentic Tapas as well as upscale Spanish cuisine. Enjoy Azafran's cool ambiance and outstanding food and save up to 25% with DiningFever's exclusive special offer.

5. Bar Stuzzichini

As the newest hot spot in the Flatiron District, Bar Stuzzichini has been packing them in all summer, and its long marble-topped bar is the perfect place to try the bite-sized appetizers for which the restaurant was named.

At this Italian casual dining restaurant, stuzzichini are divided into five categories on the menu: Friti, Verdure, Formaggi, Pesce and Salumi; individually, they are priced at approximately $5.00 - $10.00, but order plates of five choices for $22.00. Two of these and a dessert with a bottle or quartino from the all-Italian wine list and you've got a delicious meal for two.

6. Matador Bistro Latino

Contemporary Spanish and Latin cuisines mix with Asian and Middle Eastern influences to create Matador's eclectic Tapas menu. Located on Greenwich Avenue in the West Village, Matador Bistro Latino is offering individual dishes ranging in price from $3.00 to $9.00, but for real lovers of Latin food, we recommend the Plato de Charcuteria y Queso, a mixed platter of meats, cheeses and olives, for only $14.00. Stay for dinner and take 20% off your food bill and enjoy a complimentary glass of Sangria with an exclusive offer from DiningFever.com.

7. Alta

The all-Tapas menu is extensive and features creative and unusual dishes. Bring some friends to Greenwich Village, snag a table or a couple of bar seats and share a bunch of the small plates, which range in price from $3.00 for Marcona Almonds to $14.00 for Sauteed Fois Gras. A moderately priced bottle of wine from Italy, Spain or France and a couple of desserts (don't miss the plate of five Spanish cheeses for $12.00) complete this relatively inexpensive (and sabrosa!) meal.

8. Antique Garage

At this romantic Soho spot (Mercer St. bet. Grand & Broome St.), the culinary influences are described as French, Italian, Turkish and "modernized Ottoman cuisine." The owners invite you to "fill your table with several small plates from the Meze section," which features two combination platters: a selection of meats and cheeses and a sampling of meze including humus, tzatziki, eggplant salad, circassian chicken and borek, $24.00 per platter. Sunday through Tuesday evenings, take 15% off with a DiningFever exclusive.

9. I Trulli Enoteca

Adjacent to I Trulli Ristorante is its tiny offshoot, I Trulli Enoteca. The small Enoteca menu features a well-chosen assortment of meats, cheeses, and olives from Italy's Apulian region. Choose three ($18.00) or five ($24.00) and be sure to pair it with one of several flights of three wines, ranging from $11.00 to $18.00.

10. La Bodeguita

Someday we'll be allowed to visit Cuba; until then, luckily, there's La Bodeguita! At this Cuban Tapas Lounge in the Gramercy Park area, you can certainly create a delicious feast from the extensive assortment of Tapas, but try to save room for one of La Bodeguita's authentic Cuban entrees, complimented, of course, by a pitcher of Sangria or a selection from the mostly Spanish wine list.

Although Tapas originated in Spain, where "there are as many variations of Tapas as there are cooks," according to an article in globalgourmet.com, today it seems that every country's cuisine is well-represented. Italian, Indian, Turkish, and of course Spanish and Latin restaurants have all added a selection of small plates to their menus, taking what began as "bar food" to a whole new level. Now, more and more, restaurant patrons are creating their own meals from a combination of these dishes, and restaurant owners are taking note and making their selections more extensive and appealing.

Amy Arthur is the content editor of the website, blog and newsletter of DiningFever the ultimate FREE source for the best and most attractive restaurant deals in New York City

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A Rush of Blood to the Head

Coldplay Photos

More from Coldplay

X&Y

Parachutes

Live 2003

Customer Review: Singer ain't that good
I was given this album as a gift three years ago and while it was new to me I immediately noticed that the lead vocalist had no idea of how to break away from singing very "clunkily" in syllables...to every song!!! I haven't read all the reviews to this album (would take days) but wonder if he annoys anyone else as much as he annoys me?
Customer Review: Phenomenal
The Coldplay album to get if you're only going to get one, but all of them are good. this isn't as mellow or low-key as Parachutes. amazing orchestration, sweeping melodies. i admit this isn't for everyone.. some may find it depressing but i think the songs aren't straight depressing- they're more bittersweet, melancholy, hopeful. simple lyrics everybody can relate to. i still play this cd all the way through sometimes and i've had it for years.

If my husband really wants to tick me off, all he has to do is ask me what I'm going to do with all that junk in my trunk. I hear those few words and I'm off and running. I can literally rant for hours. That is how much this song gets under my skin.

When I first heard it, I had to laugh. Lady lumps? Really? I figured it was a joke. But it wasn't. The Black Eyed Peas' song My Humps was a dance hit in 2005. The song was catchy and is a popular ringtone. It has also spawned a wonderful parody by Alanis Morissette. It was also the beginning of a horrible trend among female singers: objectifying themselves and other women.

This song annoys me in so many ways it's hard to know where to start. Obviously the lyrics are my number one annoyance. Demeaning and vulgar it pains me to listen to them. I don't want young girls thinking it's okay to use their lady lumps and bumps to get guys to buy them stuff. Isn't that technically a form of prostitution? At the very least it has the potential to create gold diggers everywhere.

And that sing song not really singing but sort of singing voice Fergie uses drives me nuts. And it's everywhere now. Even Madonna gives it a go on her new album. I think maybe it's supposed to be seductive but to me it sounds like a hop scotch tune.

Perhaps the most annoying thing for me about this song is that it's catchy. It was a huge hit and people of all ages listen to it. Young 'tweens listen to it. And end up thinking that the only way to succeed and get what you want is by using your body. And once you get what you want? Simply move on to the next victim, shake your humps at him and he's all yours.

This article was provided by Ringtones Factory. Visit Ringtones Factory for the best free ringtones on the web

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Coldplay: Nobody Said It Was Easy

DID YOU KNOW THAT...

James Gilkes was one of the best sprinters of South America in the 20th century. At the 1975 Pan American Games in Mexico, James won the gold medal in the 200-meters with a time of 20.4 seconds. He is an idol in his native Guyana, an ex-British colony in South America.

DID YOU KNOW THAT...

In 1987, Sylvia Poll made history when won eight medals (3 gold, 3 silver,and 2 bronze) in the Pan American swimming pool. She became the first Latin American to win eight medals in a single Pan American Games. After her victory,she was acclaimed in San Jose, the capital city of Costa Rica, as a national heroine. Latin America has produce many swimmers, but none as Sylvia Poll Arenhs...

DID YOU KNOW THAT...

Belize competed in the 1967 Pan American Games for the first time ever.

DID YOU KNOW THAT...

Jorge Delgado Panchana was an Ecuadorian swimmer who won the gold medal in the 200m butterfly at the 1975 Pan American Games in Mexico. From 1970 to 1978, Jorge Delgado won several international medals. He was born in Guayaquil, Ecuador.

DID YOU KNOW THAT...

Argentina has competed in the Pan American Games 14 times and has won a total of 247 gold medals.It has more Pan American medals that Peru, Puerto Rico, Bolivia and Colombia combined.

DID YOU KNOW THAT...

Bolivia sent 44 athletes to the 1975 Pan American Games, which were held in Mexico...Bolivia is one of the two poorest countries in Latin America.

DID YOU KNOW THAT...

Peru has won a silver medal in womens volleyball five times at the Pan American Games: Winnipeg (1967), Cali (1971), Mexico City (1975), San Juan de Puerto Rico (1979), and Indianapolis (1987).

DID YOU KNOW THAT...

Ecuador sent 39 athletes to the 1975 Pan American Games.It finished 8th position in the final medal rankings...

DID YOU KNOW THAT...

Venezuela won the gold medal in baseball in the 1959 Pan American Games in Chicago (USA).

DID YOU KNOW THAT...

El Salvador sent 112 athletes to the 1975 Pan American Games, which were held in Mexico City,Mexico.The Salvadoran delegation had athletes competing in 15 sports: basketball (12), baseball (20), boxing (4), cycling (4), equestrian (5), fencing (9), soccer (19), gymnastics (4), judo (4), wrestling (3), weightlifting (5), swimming (1),tennis(2), shooting(9), and volleyball (12).

DID YOU KNOW THAT...

Buenos Aires, Argentinas capital, hosted the I Pan American Games. The winner was Argentina with 147 medals.

DID YOU KNOW THAT...

Diver Joaquin Capilla won 4 gold medal at two successive Pan American Games: Buenos Aires (1951) and Mexico City (1955). He is a hero in Mexico.

DID YOU KNOW THAT...

Doroteo Flores won the gold medal at the 1955 Pan American Games in the marathon competition. Like Atila Solti (shooting) and Fernanda Portocarrero (gymnastics), he is one of the Guatemalas best known and well-loved athletes.

DID YOU KNOW THAT...

The Brazilian delegation participated in the 1971 Pan American Games held in Cali (Colombia), and won 30 medals in such events as basketball, rowing, shooting, volleyball and sailing.

DID YOU KNOW THAT...
Haiti has competed in the Pan American Games 11 times: Buenos Aires (1951), Chicago (1959), Cali (1971), Mexico City (1975), San Juan de Puerto Rico (1979), Caracas (1983), Indianapolis (1987), La Havana (1991), Buenos Aires (1995), Winnipeg (1999), and Santo Domingo (2003).
Haiti is one of the worlds poorest countries. Its per capita income is only slightly above $160 U.S.

Alejandro Guevara Onofre: He is a freelance writer.Alejandro is of Italian, African and Peruvian ancestry.Heve studied political science and journalism.He has published more than seventy-five research paper in English, and more than twenty in Spanish, concerning the world issues, olympic sports, countries, and tourism. His next essay is called "The Dictator and Alicia Alonso".He is an expert on foreign affairs. Futhermore, Alejandro is the first author who has published a world-book encyclopedia in Latina America.

He admires Frida Kahlo (Mexican painter), Hillary Clinton (ex-First Lady of the USA), and Jimmy Carter (former President of the USA). His favorite film is "Gorillas in the Mist".Some of his favorite books are The Return of Eva Peron and the Killings in Trinidad (by V.S.Naipaul), "Las Mujeres de los Dictadores" (by Juan Gasparini) and Murder of a Gentle Land (by John Barron and Anthony Paul).His personal motto is "The future is for those people who believe in the beauty of their dreams" by Eleanor Roosevelt.

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Puro Huetamo

GL Bluex Womens Bluetooth MP3 Watch

The GL Bluex time pieces are as much electronic Swiss army knife as Swiss watch. Listen up to 1,000 or more of your favorite tunes on your wireless Bluetooth Stereo Headset while never missing a call from your mobile phone. Record and listen to your voice messages. Store your music files, picture files, and important documents so that you can take them with you wherever you go. One more thing...you can also tell the time. With the Audiophile in mind, the G-Lite Premiere Bluetooth Stereo Headset captures the essence of superb wireless sound quality at an affordable price point. Stylish and comfortable, the G-Lite Premiere works with any Bluetooth enabled device to deliver high fidelity listening at home or on the go. The over the ear earpiece mutes out unwanted background noise. Available options include a 3.5mm Bluetooth Adapter and USB Bluetooth Adapter for your PC.

The very name "advertainment" sends thrilling vibrations up the spine of anyone with marketing in their blood or communication in their genes. And it produces a strong shiver of disgust from many of my colleagues in the music industry.

"I don't want my songs to be involved in advertising," they say, forgetting entirely that by wearing branded running shoes, a t-shirt hawking Fender guitars and a baseball cap emblazoned with the Peavey logo, their very lives are involved in advertising. Plus, if they attend an awards show, they happily state the brand and designer names of everything they're wearing.

They further ignore the fact that radio itself is a form of advertainment. What gets played has little to do with musical accomplishment or artistic merit, but is directly related to the backing of large corporate distributors. I have been told to budget anywhere from a quarter of a million dollars to $350,000 in promotional costs to obtain national radio play on (the appropriately-named) commercial radio stations. Is it any wonder that corporations are seeking ways to build a little brand awareness into the songs?

Turn on any rap, urban or hip hop station and you can start counting the product mentions in the lyrics, some paid-for, some just happenstance. In the electronic-pop field, I have done it myself. On my "Electro Bop" album are songs such as "Paranormal Radio" (which begins as a documentary about American Technology Corporation's HyperSonic Sound system), "Sheena Sez" (about talk radio host Sheena Metal), and "Check the Tech" (about the joys of watching the TechTV channel).

Has this advertainment hurt acceptance of the album? Not that I've noticed. Many e-mails from around the world cite "Paranormal Radio" as their favorite track. Not one person has complained about the ad messages, I assume because the audience for my dance-oriented music is pleased to receive information about technology and a far-out rock-talk jock such as Ms. Metal.

Ads and entertainment go hand-in-wallet in many other ways, some pretty strange. In music alone, we have all wondered about Bob Dylan's "Love Sick" in Victoria's Secret commercials (not to mention Mr. D himself smirking between shots of the lovely bodies wearing the lingerie). But don't overlook Keith Richards in the "Cover Girl" ad while "Honky Tonk Women" plays, or Willie Nelson's "Red Headed Stranger" in the Herbal Essence spot, or Iggy Pop's liquor/drug/sex-soaked "Lust for Life" blasting throughout the Royal Caribbean commercials. (Love to work with the Account Executive who was able to sell that concept!) By contrast, Sting crooning from the back seat of a Jaguar seems a very model of demographic compatibility.

And that's the point: ads and public relations are routinely dismissed as silly, annoying, intrusive or a waste of time right up to the moment when they are delivering facts the reader or listener wants. Then, suddenly, the sponsored message is viewed as helpful and instructive. Therefore, the trick is to achieve the right match between audience and message.

One problem is choosing your media. Just listing advertising outlets can be daunting: TV, radio, outdoor, newspapers, magazines, transit, direct mail, Internet banner. Many of these have subsets: paid inserts (advertorial) in newspapers and magazines, sponsored "newsbreaks" and infomercials on broadcast media, static or animated announcements at stadia, those dreaded 'Net pop-ups, brand names on sports uniforms and equipment (can you say NASCAR?), etc.

One of the most enjoyable categories for producers of both music and advertising is viral 'Net marketing, which has had some notable success stories such as BMW Films, the Seinfeld AmEx campaign, and of course, Burger King's Subservient Chicken.

We haven't even considered cooperative advertising, which can be anything from myriad logos at the bottom of an event poster to the branded music tones and flashing-light Intel trademark that ends every other commercial for someone else's computer products.

But it extends further. Consider: Magazines that sell cover stories; product placement in movies and TV (and yes, live theater); branded clothing; bumper stickers; even fliers stuck on parked cars. There are ad messages on private automobiles (and those anti-humanistic trucks that some insist are called SUVs). Pull up behind a vehicle in traffic and you can read an ad for the car dealership on the license plate frame, plus another piece of public relations for the state on the plate itself. (Come on, you don't think it's hype to put "Land of enchantment" on every vehicle licensed in the state of New Mexico?)

You might think that this plethora of options makes it easier for firms to get their messages across to their targeted demographics, but a good case can be made for the opposite view. TV audiences are turning to Tivo and pay-per-view. Radio audiences are discovering XM and Sirius Satellite Radio. Newspaper readership is becoming an oxymoron. Motion picture audiences can be heard groaning, mocking or booing the pre-feature commercials.

This means there are a lot of people working on new ways to get the product benefits into the brains of the consumers. I do it with humorous radio scripts and subliminally seductive music, but there are going to be some innovations in our industry, and at the risk of appearing foolish, I'm going to make a few predictions. Within the next few years, we'll see:

* Debit card scanners in TV sets, so you can order during a commercial with the flick of your remote.

* Barcodes in songs, so you can download from iTunes by swiping your XM or Sirius player with your Visa or MasterCard.

* Credit cards built into wristwatches, so your "plastic money" is always close at hand.

* Links to product sites in every scene of DVD movies or computer games. Do you want the shoes in the Tony Hawk Pro Skater game? Click-click-click and they're on their way to you via FedEx (note product placement for the big competitor to United Parcel Service).

* Broadcasts of infotainment and advertainment will pop up everywhere: in public restrooms, at the Starbucks, at traffic signals, at the gas pump, on your mailbox, in the packages you purchase, in the parcels that arrive at your door, etc.

* Captive broadcasts. Just as you can preview the music on packaged CDs (available in EU now, but coming soon to the USA), the product benefits, price points and warranty information will play as soon as you lift up a product in the store.

* Digitized logo placement in the rebroadcasts of syndicated TV shows ("Hey, we can sell the product placement another three times!")

* Branded ingredient lists on menus.

* Corporate artwork that takes you on a virtual tour of the company.

* Interactive ads, where you get to play Jerry Seinfeld and/or Superman (or the driver of the BMW) in a five-minute escape from reality (and from reality TV).

* Holographic projections of commercials from postage stamps, car and house keys, magazine covers and ad pages, etc.

And these are just the changes we'll be seeing in the next few years. We're not even discussing the opportunities for advertainment once we move beyond traditional broadcast methodology; when microchips are embedded under your skin, YOU will be the receiver for TV, radio, satellite, telephone, and global positioning system signals. And at that point, the possibilities for marketing communication via advertainment are going to become truly mind-boggling.

Are these prospects exciting, frightening, or both? My view is positive. After all, a lot of these new forms of communication are going to need my scripts and my music.

# # #

Scott G is president of G-Man Music & Radical Radio. His music is on commercials for Verizon Wireless, Goodrich, Monaco Motor Coaches, BAE Systems and more. A creative director of the National Association of Record Industry Professionals (NARIP) and a member of The Recording Academy (NARAS), he writes about music for MusicDish.com and the Immedia Wire Service. The G-Man's albums are released by Delvian Records and are on Apple's iTunes. He can be reached via http://www.gmanmusic.com.

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COLDPLAY 11X14 COLOR PHOTO

At Moviestore we have an incredible library of celebrity photography covering movies, TV, music, sport and celebrity. Our exclusive photographs are professionally produced by our in-house team; we perfect bright vibrant colors or wonderful black and white tones for our photographic prints that you can display in your home or office with pride. All our images are produced from genuine original negatives and slides held in our vast library. We have been in business for 16 years so you can buy with confidence. Our guarantee: if you are not fully satisfied with any print from Moviestore we will gladly refund your money!

Music is an essential part of a childs development so enjoy the music of Wiggles at your child's birthday. It is no small wonder that music and sound is present in almost all the toys and television programs that cater to our young. In recent years The Wiggles singing group has created dozens of fun and great songs that appeal to children everywhere. This Australian band sings songs with upbeat lyrics and musical accompaniment that not only engage children but encourage them to grow and learn two very important words to any parent. You can take advantage of your childs love of music and The Wiggles to create an excellent party that theyll talk about for weeks afterwards.

For your Wiggles party youll need lots of party supplies that are bright and colorful. Dont forget to pick up musical instruments for the kids too. They can serve as decorations or cool take home party favors. You neednt break the budget in order to get musical instruments for the party either. Save some cash and purchase a package of a dozen colorful Maracas for the party. Youll find that there are Maracas of all different sizes and shapes, from plastic to wood, and toddlers love shaking them to make noise. Tambourines are another cheap instrument that you can find plenty of in the form of party favors.

The Wiggles themed party supplies are essential to make this party work. You can find plenty of paper supplies to serve food on in the form of plates, napkins and tablecloths. Also blue, green, and yellow streamers add an eclectic but properly themed color mix to the party area. Kids also like balloons so you can blow up a few in the previously mentioned colors and just leave them around the room.

Put on some Wiggles music and youre ready to have a great party. The Wiggles encourage kids to dance and sing along with them so make sure you have a large area cleared for activities.

Mrs. Party... Gail Leino takes a common sense approach to planning and organizing events, celebrations and holiday parties with unique ideas for birthday party supplies and fun free educational party games. She explains proper etiquette and living a healthy life while also teaching organizational skills and fun facts. The Party Supplies Hut has lots of party ideas with hundreds of free coloring sheets, printable games, and free birthday party activities. Over 100 adorable Party Themes to fit your birthday celebration, holiday event, or "just because" parties is at the Party Theme Shop. Party themes include cartoon characters, sports, movie, TV shows, luau, western, holidays, and unique crazy fun theme ideas.

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La Fea Mas Bella

Lety is a sweet shy romantic girl who is very intelligent though not what you'd call "attractive." Graduating with honors in economics and having a master's degree in finance she confidently sets out to find a job never once considering her appearance to be an obstacle to success. But she soon discovers that her skills and education are not enough as she is rejected over and over for her plain looks. She finally accepts a secretarial position at a major production company run by the founder's dashing but womanizing son Fernando. As the company's fortunes dwindle and future prospects dim Lety comes to the rescue proving how valuable she really is - and falling in love in the process! Can Lety stand up to the beautiful catty office gossips and win not just Fernando's gratitude but his love as well? And what happens when an unexpected twist of fate turns this "ugly duckling" into a lovely swan? That's what makes this novela one beauty of a story.Cast: Angelica Vale Jaime Camil Angelica Maria Jose Jose Elizabeth Alvarez Paty Navidad Niurka Marcos Nora Salinas Juan Soler Julissa Agustin ArenaDirector: Ruth Olegnow Sergio JimenezSystem Requirements:Run Time: 700 Mins.Format: DVD MOVIE Genre: LATIN/TELENOVELA Rating: NR UPC: 000799464328 Manufacturer No: 22292
Customer Review: La Fea Mas Bella
If I would have known that the discs did not have enough segments to make the movie realistic, I would not have bought it. Had two sides of two discs damaged or blank and many segments left out that made movie unacceptable. I would have like to see more segments of the show.
Customer Review: Good telenovela..
One of the funniest telenovelas out there. The original was way better but this is still worth watching...

Music is so common and widespread in our culture that frequently many of us take for granted the right we have (or think we have) to play it. Most people fail to realize that a legal license is required by law to play any copyrighted music.

Copyrighted Music

So what constitutes copyrighted music? The majority of music (if not all of it) that you hear is copyrighted, which means an individual or group of individuals hold the exclusive right to copy, license, or otherwise use a musical work. Generally those individuals are the people who created and produced the music. Whether it is from the radio, on a CD, or legally downloaded in the form of an MP3 file, the music is copyrighted. Companies (namely retail businesses and corporations with on hold music) are not allowed to play music from compact discs, the radio, or anything other media form for their clients and customers without obtaining the proper licenses first. This means one cannot simply hook up the radio, MP3 player, or a CD to play for customers; doing so will make you liable and result in unnecessary lawsuits and hefty fines.

It is imperative to know the difference between re-broadcasting music in a commercial setting versus listening to it strictly for private enjoyment. Consumers are permitted to buy CDs and legally download MP3 files for their personal enjoyment for them; you are allowed to play the music within your own home, private office, or car. The re-broadcasting of licensed music within any commercial establishment (such as a restaurant, office lobby, store, etc) is not permitted and is subject to legal fines and fees.

No License?

If you choose to re-broadcast copyrighted music in a commercial location without a proper license, there is the possibility that you will not get caught and nothing will happen to you. Since monitoring literally millions of pieces of copyrighted music that play every single day throughout the country is practically impossible, there is the possibility that you will not get caught. However, licensing organizations such as Broadcast Music Incorporated (BMI) are stepping up efforts to contact businesses that use music (whether in a retail store or on hold) to make sure they have all the proper and necessary licenses to play that music.

Be forewarned that if you do get caught and are charged for copyright infringement (illegally playing copyrighted music), fines can be as steep as $20,000 for each song (or performance) you played without a license. If it can be proven that the infringement was intentional, the fines will increase substantially and rise possibly as high as $100,000. Contact a licensing organization to get the licenses to play the music you want to play for your customers.

On Hold Marketing Messages

One of the preeminent and most secure ways to guarantee the content and music your customers hear on hold or in a commercial establishment is legal and exactly what you want is to get a custom on hold marketing message Music is so common and widespread in our culture that frequently many of us take for granted the right we have (or think we have) to play it. Such a recording will guarantee that your clients customers hear exactly what you want them to while they are on hold; it is a perfect time to nonchalantly discuss products and services you offer without being intrusive or overbearing. Plus, the cost of having such a message created is substantially less than the fees and fines you are likely to incur if you illegally used licensed and copyrighted music.

http://www.leavemeonhold.com on hold marketing message.

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Leaving Rouge

It wasn't long after I first fell in love with the Mount Shasta area that I discovered Sophia's Hidden Waters/ Sacred Ground CD. Her stunningly pure, sensuously hypnotic vocals carved a window into my heart, a window which remains open to this day. Sophia is able to put more heart and soul into her voice than all but a few singers I've ever heard. But more than just having technical chops, Sophia evokes the sublime passion of the Goddess. Listening to Sophia is like listening to an angel, one who is able to bridge the apparent divide between this world and that of pure, loving Spirit. Her entire discography, including Emergence, Return, Chakra Healing Chants and more, is well worth collecting.

The musicians on Spirit Healing Chants are truly an amazing group of stars in their own right. Gifted singer-songwriter Michael Stillwater plays guitar and adds his inimitable voice to " Heart of the Mother/I am One," while Raphael contributes keyboards. Along the way, Fantuzzi gifts us with invocations and vocals on "Universal Lover," and Donnie Regalmuto offers keyboards, vocals, percussion and programming throughout. Additional artists contribute violin, bass, percussion, flutes, sax and more.

Other chants on Spirit Healing Chants that Sophia and crew do more than justice to include " Blessed are the Peacemakers," " Shakti," " Keepers of the Garden/We are the Ones" and the delightfully jazz-tinged " Celebrate this Day."

An exquisite accompaniment to tantra and other yoga practices, active meditation or massage, Spirit Healing Chants artfully and passionately celebrates the Divine in all of manifest creation. Be sure to give Sophia's new CD your undivided attention. Your heart will love you for it.

Steve Ryals has been writing music reviews since 1994, and to date has published more than 1200. Steve specializes in World Beat, Native American, New Age, Meditation, Contemporary Instrumental, Chanting, Devotional Singing, and more. He currently writes two music reviews every month as part of his Drunk with Wonder Newsletter. To sign up for his FREE newsletter go to http://www.drunkwithwonder.com

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Speed Of Sound

Do you want to learn how to sing or just how to sing better? You may not be aware of it but its likely a case of learning how to sing better for most of us. Its not that absolutely everyone can sing, but most of us can if we take a sensible approach to trying.

There is a wealth of information available on the internet offering lessons and scales and claiming to reveal the Five least known Singing Secrets. Well heres something to ponder, there are no secrets. The ability to be a good singer is nothing more than learning how to listen to yourself, being able to correct you pitch if its off, breathing for a continuous supply of breath, and muscle control in your throat and body to produce the best tones, not to mention, tons of practice. Proper practice that is, not practicing mistakes.

Singing lessons will certainly help guide you to being able to recognize how all of these things go together but the reality is that you can quite likely do it yourself with only a little help.

Have you ever seen advertising that claims you can increase your range by an octave? That to me is a very big claim. Personally I would have to see it to believe it. Im not saying that its impossible but its not as possible as some would have you believe. The only real way to increase your range is to practice properly, without hurting yourself, and building your range up over a period of time. Thats the only way to do it safely and still keep a rich tone about your voice. My sense is that anything else would be falsetto singing and in my world, theres no real room for that.

This practice is where scales and such come in handy. You sing ascending scales and descending scales in a variety of phonetic phrases. Its a controlled environment and you can make improvements in your range for sure, but it will take time if you do it properly. Naturally the more you practice, the greater your improvement.

You may need to consider that range is not the be all and end all of being a great singer. When you listen to your favorite songs it becomes apparent that at least most of the song stick to a certain range and doesnt go too much higher or lower than that. Most of those notes are quite reachable by the average human so dont kill yourself trying to do something super-human when it comes to increasing range.

Instead of range, worry about pitch. It really doesnt matter how high or low you can sing if you cant hit the right notes in between. Stick to the easy stuff you know you can do and work up from there. Use your ears. If you sound like youre off, correct it and dont be shy about it. Youll be surprised at how quickly you stop singing wrong notes. Your ears are the greatest aid you have to being a great singer, you should learn how to use them first, then decide if you need lessons.

Ian Kurz is a singer/guitarist that has been performing for many years. He has played in front of thousands of people and has performed as an opening act for various recording artists. He uses the principles of singing found at http://www.discoveryoucansing.com

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The Song is You

The words to this old standard suddenly invaded my dreams the other night and I awoke with a new revelation.

Although it was written as a romantic love song, the last 2 lines seemed to speak to me of something else...something genuine, authentic, and true...kinda like the way I want you to sing. The words to the last lines are,

"The music is sweet, the words are true, the song is you"

When I talk to you about being real when you sing, I am talking about choosing songs that are comfortable to you in style and mood, as well as lyrics and melody. When you choose comfortable songs that say what you want to say, AND are based on your beliefs your traditions, your customs, your upbringing and environment, then you ARE the song, and the song is YOU!

Finding Your Song

I grew up in New York City and was influenced by Jazz and Broadway musical styles. Jazz songs feel very natural for me...the way jazz notes are bent and improvised feels familiar and comfortable, and when I sing Broadway songs, they flow from me with an effortlessness that feels as if I could go on singing for hours and hours.

Oh sure! I'll sing a Country tune when asked, or power-ballad, or a rock tune, or even an Art Song if requested, but although I can appreciate and perform all musical genres, if I were to choose an audition song to fully express my essence, it would have to be a Jazz tune or something from Broadway. And the reason for this is that as early as I can recall, the sounds of the melodies, harmonies and rhythms contained within these 2 styles drifted through our house non-stop.

You must examine your roots to find music that fully expresses you!

I have students who love the Jazz Style, yet find it difficult to negotiate through jazz syncopated nuances that are just not part of their comfort zones. These students sound much better, freer, looser, more confident when they sing in styles that they can FEEL and that are natural to them. It's where they can best express their own essence.

The Singer's Comfort Zone

Now I can hear you saying,

"WAIT, Chrys! Are you saying that we should never venture out of our comfort zone?

How can we ever grow if we don't?"

That's a good question! And "No", I'm not saying don't widen the border lines of your comfort zone. On the contrary, we should always be willing to stretch ourselves through our performances.

• If we're used to clutching the microphone, we should try sometimes to sing with the mic in the stand and our hands free.
• And we should try to stretch our range
• and to listen to music that is popular and "happening", but may not be what we would normally purchase at Tower Records.

But everyone has a center where the music of the heart lives and breathes. In this place is where the Song and the Singer are ONE.

If you filled out the SingYourLife.com questionnaire a few months ago, you remember when I asked you what music you listen to. I asked that to get an idea of what songs best express your essence, cause that's where those songs are, in your CD and MP3 collections...and where we begin to discover the voice inside you...and the songs that are YOU!

The Current "American Idol" Season

Did you follow this last season of "American Idol"? Then you've already heard some of the judges' comments when they reject a pleasant enough sounding voice that just didn't touch them.

Let me echo what they said about a nice voice not being enough, especially when the song is not reflective of who the singer truly is in his/her soul. In this competition, SONG CHOICE seems to be the number one factor in whether or not one moves on or goes home.

When Simon says, "That was forgettable", he is saying that the song and the singer weren't ONE.
He is saying that the there was something disingenuous about the performance, maybe the song was chosen to impress rather then to express.

Even a singer with a dynamite voice can ruin his/her chances at an audition by choosing material that simply is not in harmony with his/her essence.

This is one of the reasons that I always discourage copying another singer's style. Whenever I hear, "Make me sound like Christina", I have to respond by telling the student that it's just not my thing to make carbon copies of other performers.

My mission is to help singers find their OWN voice and then to develop it to be the very best it can be, and to realize that it will be much more than good enough!

So I guess, I am saying 2 things here:

First- Be Yourself and let your song choices reflect that, and

Second - Stretch Yourself musically, technically, harmonically, and rhythmically to get more flexibility and vocal strength, and then use your improved vocal ability to express your inner soul.

When you do that, the Song is You, AND You are The Song!

That's when the Magic happens, singers!

Chrys Page is a singer, vocal coach, and eBook author of "The Art of Singing" Series, a set of "how-to's" for serious and committed singers.

Chrys provides singers worldwide with a variety of products and services geared to motivate, inspire, and help them on their vocal path wherever it may lead.

http://www.singyourlife.com has been serving singers for 8 years with online lessons, backing tracks, sheet music, and a monthly newsletter filled with timely tips and advice for singers.

We invite you to Join Our Mailing list! It's FREE!

Her latest website, http://www.Karaoke-And-Beyond.com is exclusively for singers who wish to take their singing to another level, which is singing to "live" music. At this site, the singer finds Keyboard and Guitar Lessons, and a variety of self-help music books designed to help singers learn how to accompany themselves when they sing. The "Art of Singing" series is also offered, along with great deals on musical instruments through an affiliate link.

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Coldplay: Live 2003

Riding high on the phenomenal success of A Rush of Blood to the Head, Coldplay is in peak form on Coldplay Live 2003. This CD/DVD two-pack was filmed (on Super-16mm film) and recorded in Sydney's Horden Pavilion on July 21 and 22, 2003, during an exhaustive year-long world tour, and the medium-sized arena provides a fitting stage for the London-based rock quartet, not so grand as to overwhelm the music, but large enough to indicate their large and loyal following, which includes enthusiastic fans of either gender. Especially when played in DTS 5.1 surround, this 90-minute concert is richer, thicker, and (of course) louder than Coldplay's studio recordings, lending a wall-of-sound expansiveness to the band's signature sound, which draws from such diverse influences as Genesis, Pink Floyd, The Verve, U2, and their own unique sonic landscape. "Politik" gets the gig off to a rousing start, and other impressive highlights include "Daylight," "Yellow," the as-yet-unreleased new song "Moses," and the popular hits "In My Place," "Clocks," and "The Scientist." And while the concert visuals are slick and professional (perhaps placing a bit too much emphasis on singer/frontman Chris Martin), this DVD and CD--the latter containing a truncated 70-minute version of the same performance--are best appreciated for their pristine audio quality. Culled from 400 hours of home video, the 40-minute "concert diary" represents a wasted opportunity, enjoyable for hardcore fans but offering no insight into the band or its individual members. Much better, then, to play the concert at healthy high volume, and appreciate Coldplay in the prime of their young career. --Jeff Shannon
Customer Review: The best concert I never went to!!
I got the Coldplay 2003 DVD as a birthday present in '04. Coldplay's my favorite band, so you can imagine my excitement. Back in the days, I never thought I could ever be in a real concert of the band, I lived too far away from any place they toured. Almost four years later, I still think the DVD was the best concert in my life. That is, taking into consideration that I went to see them, against all odds, in NYC in 2006. It's not that the concert was bad, it was one of the best days in my life. It's that to me, the DVD is so good that I can't get enough of it. The band plays perfectly, the connection with the crowd is real, the choice of songs is fantastic, the sound is epic, the transitions that go along with songs, including colors, angles and views of the crowd and the band are nothing but exciting and bright. If there's any DVD I would ever recommend, it's this one. It's the closest you'll come to live the Coldplay experience if you haven't got the chance to live it already.
Customer Review: Wow. That's all I have to say.
Not only is the music CD great, but the DVD packs quite the punch. The only tiny thing that bugged me was how the CD didn't have every song off of the DVD, but I guess that's what makes the DVD that much better. If you like Coldplay, but this DVD, you will not regret it. Best $20 musical purchase I've made in a long time.

You can always tell that a dance form is gaining popularity when you see it on the silver screen. When the Brazilian dance Lambada was the craze, there was actually a movie titled "Lambada" in1989. Patrick Swayze's "Dirty Dancing" popularized a forbidden dance of the same name.

Some other dance movies are:

"Flashdance" (1983) Breakdancing movie

"Saturday Night Fever" (1977) Disco movie

"Fame" (1980) Jazz movie

"The Turning Point" (1977) Ballet movie

"Staying Alive" (1983) Jazz movie

"Footloose" (1984) New Wave movie

Though there are a lot more that could be mentioned, it cannot be denied that most of these movies help disseminate information on the chosen dance topic. For a dance to be featured on film is a good thing no matter what critics say.

It appears the dance form Stepping is also getting widescreen attention. Here are some of the movies on this African American art form:

"School Daze" (1988) musical-drama film, written and directed by Spike Lee, and starring Laurence Fishburne, Giancarlo Esposito, and Tisha Campbell.

Based in part on Spike Lee's experiences at Atlanta's Morehouse College, it is a story about fraternity and sorority members clashing with other students at a historically black college during homecoming weekend. This was the second feature film directed by Spike Lee, and was released on February 12, 1988 by Columbia Pictures.

"Stomp the Yard" (2007) drama film produced by Rainforest Films and released through Sony Pictures' Screen Gems division on January 12, 2007.

Directed by Sylvain White, Stomp the Yard centers around DJ Williams, a college student at a fictional historically Black university who pledges to join a fictional Greek-letter fraternity. The film's central conflict involves DJ's fraternity competing in various stepping competitions against a rival fraternity from the same school. The film's script was written by Robert Adetuyi, working from an original draft by Gregory Ramon Anderson. The film was originally titled Steppin', but to avoid confusion over the 2006 film Step Up, the title was changed.

"How She Move" (2008) Canadian film directed by Ian Iqbal Rashid and starring Rutina Wesley, Cl Bennett, and Romina D'Ugo. The film showcases the emerging street culture of step dancing and the talents of a new generation of Canadian-born actors. The film is produced by Celluloid Dreams, Sienna Films and MTV Films.

Motion pictures through the years reflect the way things were and are at the time of filming. The 1930s depression produced movies on how hard life was, the '70s showed movies on promiscuity, abortion, war and other social issues of the time, and so on.

Because Stepping is a continuously growing art form, documenting it at a certain period in time helps record its progress and changes.

Though most practitioners of this dance would say that these movies didn't do full justice to this art form, the message all these films are trying to relay is the same: Stepping is part of African American culture and is a part of the here and now.

MyStepShow.com is a free video sharing community website that features step team performances. Members can post and share video footage of their stepteam performances. Visit http://www.MyStepShow.com to learn more about the tradition of stepping.

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Intros, Endings and Turnarounds for Keyboard: Essential Phrases for Swing, Latin, Jazz Waltz, and Blues Styles

Learn the intros, endings and turnarounds that all of the pros know and use! This new keyboard instruction book by John Valerio covers swing styles, ballads, Latin tunes, jazz waltzes, blues, major and minor keys, vamps and pedal tones, and more.
Customer Review: This book is fun ...
The book has well written, very musical phrases. The author suggests usage with several standards that should be in everyone's play book and it's fun to work them in with tunes you already know - in the proper keys. Take them apart, and there is something to learn in most of them. Great for browsing. The printing is good and the binding isn't troublesome on the rack. Nice experience. I would have rated it a five, but some of the pages have a tendency to work loose.
Customer Review: I love this book
I try to spend a half hour with it every night. This book will appeal to a wide range of interests. Whether you are a composer interested in theory, or a keyboardist enhancing your chops, there is something here for you. Most examples are four-measures long, but rich in musicality (kind of like what the Bach chorales are for those studying classical music.) The examples progress from simple chord progressions to more complex, and each is one is clearly explained. Nice melodies too! It is apparent that the author has spent a lot of time with each of the sub-genres (swing, ballads, blues, Latin, etc.) and has distilled his knowledge into a neat recipe book that will serve as a launching point for those wishing to further their expertise.

Securing a limousine in West Palm Beach, Florida can be a great choice. There are many great places to visit in West Palm Beach like beaches, shops, restaurants and clubs. With a chauffeured limousine the worries of asking for directions, finding short routes to prime locations and getting lost are eliminated from your excursion-leaving you more time for things that matter.

West Palm Beach, also known as West Palm, is the most populous city in Palm beach County. The city has a very rich history. Prior to the founding of Miami, West Palm Beach was a thriving cultural center.

Newcomers have rediscovered the city's historic areas, graceful new high-rises including Donald Trump's elegant "Trump Plaza", and a resurgent downtown entertainment and shopping district called City Place. Clematis Street and City Place are some of the centers of West Palm Beach's nightlife. The city recently built a new convention center. A new downtown library and city hall funded by bonds are currently being built. This is all apart of a City Center, that will also include a waterfront park, photographic & arts center, and new shops.

Here are a few point of interest you can enjoy in West Palm Beach:

Raymond F. Kravis Center for the Performing Arts- Since 1992, the Kravis Center has provided the city a venue for world class performances in theatre, dance, opera, and music. The venue holds more than 800 events each year.

Norton Museum of Art- located just south of downtown, is the largest art museum in Florida and boasts many travelling exhibits that runs the circuit of world class museums.

SunFest - is a music, art, and waterfront festival

CityPlace - described as "old-world architecture, beautiful fountains, and sidewalk cafs create an atmosphere strikingly reminiscent of a European town center".

Be sure to consider a limousine rental for your next trip to West Palm Beach, Florida.

Timothy Franklin
theLimoListing.com
Florida-Limos.com
theLimoFinder.com

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Talk

Includes unreleased b-side track.
Customer Review: "Talk" is Coldplay's first club single
Several single versions of Coldplay's "Talk" have been released to date, most which contain live tracks as B-sides. However, you may not know it, but several club mixes of "Talk" have been made as well, and the track is fast becoming Coldplay's first real club hit. (A remix of "Clocks" also got some play in clubs but not to this extent.) While at first glance this may seem surprising it actually makes perfect sense. You see, the melody of "Talk" is actually sampled from Kraftwerk's 1983 electronic single "Computerlove". The remixes of "Talk" are official mixes and have been promoted to clubs in both the U.S. and overseas. Thus far, I haven't seen any of the "Talk" remixes included on a the maxi single releases, but they may be included at some point. However, they are available on iTunes, and definitely worth purchasing. The remixes promoted in the U.S. include the Junkie XL and Francois K mixes. Junkie XL has done a number of notable club remixes of rock tracks in the last couple of years. Their mix is outstanding - it maintains the beauty and emotional intimacy of the song but adds a distinctive "buildup" at the beginning and a strong rhythm underneath to bring it up to a whole new level. The Francois K remix of "Talk" is a complete reworking of the song - bringing it more in style towards Kraftwerk's original "Computerlove". Very electronic, very "detached" - definitely quite an accomplishment but in my opinion not as good as the Junkie XL mix. "Talk" will reach #3 on the Billboard Dance/Club Chart as of early March 2006.
Customer Review: Only B-side!
I just got this today and there is only the Sleeping Sun song and the radio edit version of Talk. There is contradictory information on this page and, even though I would have bought it anyway, it was quite a disappointment when I opened it up and saw only one. :( Maybe there's a version out there with both b-sides, but I haven't found it yet. The Sleeping Sun song is great, of course.

Two of my favourite Ballroom Dances would be The Jive and The Samba.

The Samba is a composition of several different South American dances that were practiced by slaves bought into Portugal in the 16th century, like the Catarete, Embolada and the Batuque. These dances were considered vulgar by the Europeans and one of the dances, the Batuque was so popular that it was outlawed. The Batuque was danced in a circle with steps resembling those of a Charleston with a solo dancer in the center of the circle.

Eventually, carnival steps were added and the dance was modified to use the closed ballroom position and considered a proper dance by the Europeans.

The Samba appears to be a combination of all these dances (and probably others) and is danced to a heavy hitting rhythm and its main moves are walking and side steps and incorporates a lot of hip action. For this reason, it is thought that The Samba a perfect party dance.

In the Samba, Ballroom Dancing Judges look for accuracy and passion in the Volta (crossing in front of the body), the Samba Roll (moving the upper body in a circular motion while going through a six step turn) and the Botafogo (traveling walk that includes a direction change). Judges always look for outstretched arms and the distinctive climax of the Samba where the dancers throw their heads back and their arms are splayed out to the side.

The fastest of the Latin Dances, The Jive is believed to have originated in New York's Harlem area although some believe it originates in the southeast United States.

The Jive is a face paced, rhythmical dance which has been influenced by other styles including Boogie, Rock, African American Swing and the Lindyhop. The Jive is also known as the Cake Walk, because in the late 1800's the Negroes in the south held competitions where the prize for the best Jive was a cake.

Although dancers appear to have their legs and feet flying everywhere when performing The Jive, they're feet are directly under the body with the knees always close together. The woman is twirled a lot and there are a lot of kicks.

The Jive is generally performed to music known as Ragtime. The reason the music is called Ragtime may be because the dancers dressed up in their finest clothes ("rags") or because the syncopation of the music giving it a ragged feel.

Both the Jive and The Samba are wonderful dancers that are a joy to watch.

About the Author

Charly Leetham has an abiding interest in Ballroom Dancing with both of her children undertaking Ballroom Dancing classes and performing exceptionally well.

Learn More About Ballroom Dancing

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LP RhythMix Conga with Carry Strap

Learning Spanish can do a lot for you and improve life in a number of countless ways.

For starters, you can improve your understanding of English. Yes, thats right! A lot of the vocabulary of English has Latin origins, much of which came to English by way of French. Since Spanish is also a Latin language, you will notice that as you study the language you will gain a better understanding of your native vocabulary. Similarly, both Spanish and English share Indo-European roots, so their grammar are similar. There probably isnt a more effective way to learn English grammar than by studying the grammar of another language, since studying forces you to think about how your language is structured. Its not unusual, for example, to gain an understanding of English verbs tenses and moods by learning how those verbs are used in Spanish.

Make Traveling Fun!

How about traveling? Sure, it is perfectly possible to visit Mexico, Spain or South America without speaking a word of Spanish. But it isnt close to half as much fun. By having an understanding of the Spanish language, it may allow you to see and do things that many other visitors dont get to. Also, the best way to truly understand a culture is to be able to speak the language. Sure you can learn a lot through a Lonely Planet guide, but its being able to communicate with the natives and the locals that will give you the experience of a lifetime. Being able to read a Latin American or Spanish newspaper, for example, can give you great insight into the places you visit and a better vision of what is going on in other parts of the world. Not to mention, Spanish offers a wealth of literature, both modern and traditional.

Learn Other Languages

Interested in learning other languages? Well, if you can learn Spanish, youll have an edge in learning the other Latin-based languages such as French, Italian and Portuguese. It can even help you learn Russian and German, since both also have Indo-European roots and have some characteristics that are present in Spanish but not English. In the end, learning Spanish will help you learn any language simply because by simply learning the structure of one language can give you a reference point for learning others.

In learning a foreign language, you are not going to find any easier language to learn than Spanish. Much of its vocabulary is similar to Englishs, and written Spanish is almost completely phonetic. Although mastering Spanish grammar can be a challenge, the basic grammar is straightforward enough that you will be able to communicate after just a few lessons.

Improve Your Career Opportunities

Being able to speak another language can also help you in your career. Without a doubt, if you live in the United States and you work in one of the helping professions like healthcare and teaching, your career options and opportunities will expand by knowing Spanish. But really, wherever you live, if youre in any occupation that involves international trade, communications, or tourism, youll find similar opportunities to use your new language skills. There is a limitless range of things you can do with Spanish!

Make Life More Interesting!

And finally, whether you enjoy talking, reading, or mastering challenges, youll find all of them in learning Spanish. Theres something about being able to successfully speak another language that makes life more interesting. Maybe thats why children often speak Pig Latin or create secret codes of their own. Learning a language can be work, well, a lot of hard work, but the efforts pay off quickly when you finally get to use your new skills!

Sonny Sheth is the author and creator of http://www.OuterSpanish.com, a free Spanish learning online resource featuring grammar lessons, vocabulary and useful phrases, Spanish idiomatic expressions, practice exams and listening comprehension drills. He can be contacted at support@outerspanish.com.

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Esperanza

"Esperanza," bassist/vocalist/composer Esperanza Spalding's debut on Heads Up International, is set for worldwide release on May 20, 2008. Armed with uncanny instrumental chops, a siren voice that spans three languages, and composing and arranging skills that weave together the best elements of the old-school with the progressive, this 23-year-old has crafted a debut album that takes a completely fresh and refreshing approach to jazz by borrowing from the rich traditions of soul, pop, world music and so much more.

Esperanza is joined in the studio by a crew of A-list session players, including flamenco guitar virtuoso Niño Josele, percussionist Jamey Haddad, drummer Horacio "El Negro" Hernández, saxophonist Donald Harrison and several other seasoned talents - all of whom collectively serve as further evidence of the kind of creative energy and magnetism that she radiates.
Customer Review: Can't get it out of my head
I'm no musician and cetainly no jazz expert. I just love beautiful, interesting, melodious music. This album took my breath away. Every time that I listen to it, I hear something new that catches my ear. The album seems to be packed with talent, but that combination of voice and bass is something else altogether.
Customer Review: Pure Talent
Ms Spalding is an incredible talent. She has been blessed with both an amazing musical ability and is already an accomplished college instructor. Take advantage of the opportunity to see her perform if she happens into your area.

Anyone who has ever been to a social dancing event knows that not everyone has a good time, or at least not equally so. Some sit out many (if not all) dances, while others never seem to sit down. Why the difference?

There is only one reason for dancing at a social do: to have fun. There is no competition, no need to be absolutely perfect in the steps, and no reason to be stern and serious while cutting a rug. The key skill is the ability to socialize while keeping feet in time to the music.

This is easier said than done for some people, and is what makes the difference between sitting on the sidelines and hitting the floor. Many people are very self-conscious about dancing, either because they dont know the steps or because they think they look silly. Others are so intense while doing the steps that they can barely look up, and even when they do, conversation is impossible because they are silently counting and concentrating on foot movement.

Beyond the basics of dance etiquette, there are some rules of thumb that warrant following to master the art of dance floor socializing. Here are some examples:

Prepare yourself. If you know that there is a big event coming up that will include dancing beyond the non-contact freestyle sort, learn the steps. Take a social dancing class or two to master the basics. And practice. When the event comes along, you will be able to take to the floor without worrying about your skill and having to count in your head.

Dress to dance. Think about the dancing part of the event when you plan your outfit. Shoes need allow you to move safely, clothes need to make it easy for a partner to make contact as you move through various steps and turns.

If you want to be asked to dance, put on your happy face. Looking stern will make you appear unapproachable. Tap your fingers or toes to the music, smile, and make eye contact.

On the other side of the coin, try not to refuse an invitation to dance. Most songs are no more than three or four minutes long, so dancing with someone that might not be your ideal partner should not be too much strain. Be gracious, be polite, and you will be rewarded!

Dont dance with just one person. Dancing with a wide set of partners is a cornerstone of social dancing. Dance with everyone, and get everyone to dance.

When you make it out onto the dance floor, keep the fun going. Again, some rules of thumb:

Be entertaining. While having a good time yourself, engage your partner. Think of dancing in terms of moving to music while carrying on cocktail party conversation. Dance at a level you both enjoy, and exercise a good sense of humor. And smile!

Make your partner feel appreciated. The most popular dancers are not the most skillful, but the ones who clearly appreciate and enjoy their partners. Most people are not interested in dancing with someone who is obviously bored or feeling put upon, no matter how great their footwork may be.

Never blame your partner for anything that may happen on the dance floor.

Do not start teaching on the dance floor, unless your partner asks you to do so. Unsolicited lessons are more likely to embarrass your partner than to make them happy. If you are a more skilled dancer, you should be able to match yourself to your partners level of ability.

If you are leading, do so comfortably. Cranking your partners arm to force a turn or pushing and pulling them into position will not be a pleasant experience. If your partner is not doing what you want, your lead probably was not clear enough or beyond her own skill level. Tone it down and lead steps that can be transmitted and received enjoyably.

If you are following, dont start back-leading. It is disrespectful to your partner when you steal the lead.

Protect your partner. If you are leading, anticipate the movement of the other dancers and move your steps into empty areas of the floor so that you dont run into other couples. If you are following, keep an eye out behind your partners back. If a couple is bearing down in his blind spot, let him know with pressure on his hand or shoulder, or simply by telling him.

Avoid humming or singing along with the music you are dancing to.

Social dancing is social. Each dance is a brief encounter that should be fun for both partners. Approach the floor with a good attitude and sense of humor, concentrate on the enjoyment of dancing rather than technical proficiency, and dont worry if there are missteps or other mistakes. Youll go home well exercised and happy!

This article was contributed by Master Portable Floors. Master Portable Floors is the floor of choice by professional dancers. The floors have been rated highest quality by the American Swing Dancing Association and the Ball Room Dancing Association. Master Portable Floors has a unique flex action that provides a comfortable dancing surface that reduces hip and joint injuries. To learn more about Master Portable Floors visit www.masterportablefloors.com.

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