Rather surrealistic to have a detailed account of war on television as I write this column a week before you read it. How do I just chat about the music scene? Even in my classes at Schreiner, I feel I have to say something about the conditions in the world. Since research on the brain reveals that music affects a part of the brain that enhances learning and creativity, perhaps this column should be a call for "more music." At the least it can be a call to put on some music and write down your impressions of our world, your feelings and interpretations. Said like a true professor of writing! Write more.

On to the music. I had a spectacular experience at South by Southwest, a regional conference that attracts people in all areas of the music business from around the world. I met a man from Norway who creates a radio show featuring many of the bands we associate with Texas. He was standing beside me at several concerts I attended, including the midnight show by our own Willie Nelson and Family. I always enjoy witnessing the international appeal of Texas music.
In the midst of rumors that Willie might not be feeling well, he came out smiling and played his "usual" show, a show that is predictable and brand new at the same time. Standing for hours on the concrete floor of the Austin Music Hall did not help my knees, but the shows I saw there certainly filled my heart. In a town where about 1000 bands were showcasing throughout the week, I was surprised and pleased at the packed house that came to hear our own guru of great music.

The producer of his album "Teatro" was also on the bill a few days earlier. Daniel Lanois has always been a favorite of mine: dark, rhythmic and intense. His performance, teamed with support from the L.A. Band, Mother Superior, was one of the best shows I've seen in my journey up the music road. Lanois has a new album coming out April 22 called "Shine." Buy it and become a new fan of this Canadian super star. Of course, Leonard Cohen, another Canadian, has always been a favorite of mine as well. I'm partial to the poetry blended with haunting music.

The trade show brought together many people in the business and many musicians hoping to be discovered. All walked through the hall, hoping. Each conversation could be a breakthrough, an opportunity to get more business or find a sponsor or get a record label. Trade shows seem to be opportunities for networking at best.

After the trade-show, after the panel presentations on relevant topics, the participants hit the streets. I attended the annual party thrown by Texas Music Magazine. This magazine is becoming the ultimate voice of music in Texas. Go to www.texasmusiconline.com and get your subscription. Call 1-877-35-Texas. Many magazines come and go. Texas Music is here to stay, and all the information reported is part of our heritage and culture. Thanks to publisher Stewart C. Ramser for pursuing his dream!

My research project led me to interview Rosie Flores (what a gal!), Susan Gibson (We talked two hours, enthusiastically.), and Kimarie, who was rehearsing at Ropers Club on Wells Spring Parkway. She's fifteen, beautiful and blessed with the gift of music since early childhood. I had a mother/daughter conversation as she put together her show for the evening showcase. My sister, Carolyn, joined me for the week of research, and our time with Kimarie has become her symbol of the good time we had. As I interview women for my next book, I become more aware of the women in my life. First, my sister! She and I will be spending more time together. Then the women who went to Mexico with me in January, Road Warriors! Women I teach with at Schreiner have become more significant. Of course, my mother and her close friends. What a rich life when we acknowledge those who nurture and support us.

On that note I am out of space. Ahead, March 29, is a concert by Greg Forest and many great friends (including the Segovia Senators) at the HCAF starting at 1:00 p.m. Blue House is featured at a Quiet Valley House Concert in the evening. Call Dalis at 367-3600 for reservations. Join me for the world music of Oliver Rajamani on April 2. Java Pump provides music in an alcohol free environment with a smoker's porch in effect. Mike Kasberg plays at Chili's from 7-9 p.m. with a rhythm and blues show March 27, and at Francisco's on March 28. This music rocks! Double D in Comfort is showcasing music on the weekends. And April 12 is the big Texas Music Festival in Comfort. Free Leonard and Happy Trails.

Visit the THMF website:  www.texasheritagemusic.org

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