7/28/2018:  This blog is no longer maintained or added to...but is kept here for archival purposes.
To stay informed, at this time the best way is to "like" Tracy's page on Facebook: 
https://www.facebook.com/tracyjanecomermusic/
Otherwise, please watch the website:  www.tracyjanecomer.com

Thank you!

Summer gigs (SO FAR - more to be added)

Well after a very busy spring including the move into a new house (YAY!  Great music studio and rehearsal space!!), I'm catching my breath and looking forward to lots of fun music this summer with my various projects. I love making music with all of my talented cohorts and hope you can make some of the shows to share in the fun!

The "Big Picture" for the summer...
Here are descriptions of current projects. See below for schedule.

ACOUSTIC ALLOY (TC Peart and myself, often with help from percussionist "Bad Alan"):
We will play once a month at Babe's (on the patio, or inside if rain), plus one show at The Brink in August...and a few other gigs are in the works before TC relocates to Las Vegas in August (yes, sad to say she is moving). We do pop/rock/country/folk covers including well-known and some cool but lesser known tunes. (Everything from "Why Not Me" to "Uptown Funk.")
www.acousticalloy.com

COMMON CHORD (Michael Bryant and myself with help from Delores Jenison, Faye Bruggink, and often "Bad Alan" on percussion, plus a special guest at each show):
We play once a month at The Brink Lounge and will have some other things being added to the schedule soon. These shows feature lots of originals (esp. Michael's great tunes), plus our arrangements of some unique covers, and a whole buncha instruments and harmonies.
www.commonchord.us (That goes to our Facebook page for now, website coming soon!)

CORNERSTONE - The church band I've been part of for 10 years - has official ended as a band, BUT I'll be making an appearance with some various ensembles now and then at Good Shepherd Lutheran (Raymond Road, Madison).

SOLO SHOWS: Rare but I do them now and then. I really enjoy making music with others so focus on the collaborative stuff these days.


==================================

SHOWS scheduled as of now*

*Please watch websites and/or Facebook for updates and additions -- I won't send out another email for a few months probably...

Thursday, June 9, 2016
6:00 to 9:00 PM
Acoustic Alloy
Babe's
5614 Schroeder Road, Madison, WI 53711
(608) 274-7300   

Thursday, June 30, 2016
7:00 to 10:00 PM
Common Chord
The Brink Lounge
701 E Washington Ave., Madison, WI 53703
608-770-2640   
**Guest artist for this show will be BRUCE BUTTEL (by popular demand!)

Saturday, July 2, 2016
5:00 PM Worship
Good Shepherd Lutheran Church
5701 Raymond Road, Madison WI 53711
(608)271-6633
I'll be participating with a small ensemble to lead worship, doing about 7 songs during the service. With Delores Jenison (vocals), Bill Rushmore (guitar, vocals), Kristin Landis (cello), and myself (vocals, piano, viola, guitar).

Sunday, July 3, 2016
10:45 AM Worship
Good Shepherd Lutheran Church
5701 Raymond Road, Madison WI 53711
(608)271-6633
(See description for July 2 above...)

Thursday, July 7, 2016
6:00 to 9:00 PM
Acoustic Alloy
Babe's
5614 Schroeder Road, Madison, WI 53711
(608) 274-7300   

Thursday, July 14, 2016
7:00 to 10:00 PM
Common Chord
The Brink Lounge
701 E Washington Ave., Madison, WI 53703
608-770-2640   
**Guest artist for this show will be BLUE STONE doing an acoustic set, PLUS we have an added vocalist for the show filling out harmonies - Diane Kohrs. So will be doing some extra special 3- and 4-part harmony tunes. Can't wait!

Thursday, August 4, 2016
6:00 to 9:00 PM
Acoustic Alloy
Babe's
5614 Schroeder Road, Madison, WI 53711
(608) 274-7300   
LAST show at Babe's. We may have a special guest for this show....Details TBA

Thursday, August 11, 2016
7:00 to 10:00 PM
Common Chord
The Brink Lounge
701 E Washington Ave., Madison, WI 53703
608-770-2640   
**Guest artist for this show will be....TBA! Not yet confirmed so we can't tell ya yet.

Wednesday, August 17, 2016
7:00 to 10:00 PM
Acoustic Alloy
The Brink Lounge
701 E Washington Ave., Madison, WI 53703
608-770-2640   

Wednesday, September 7, 2016
A totally SOLO appearance for me.
10:45 AM (probably 45 min to 1 hour)
Oregon Area Senior Center
219 Park Street, Oregon, WI 53575
(608) 835-5801

Updates on Common Chord (with Michael Bryant) and Acoustic Alloy (with TC Peart)

My usual disclaimer: If you want to stay informed the best thing would be to either be my "friend" on Facebook (search for my name) or "like" my Facebook page (separate from my personal profile). I don't do updates here often, but here is one...

In the days since Wild Heart's last show (Sept. 2015) I've remained very busy with music! Most of my creative time has been spent reconnecting with a longtime friend and collaborator, Michael Bryant (former leader of our trio Sticky Fingers, from the early 2000s). He and I have regrouped as an entity we are calling Common Chord, and you can find us at www.commonchord.us (which currently connects to our Facebook page...website coming soon). We perform as a duo but also usually have some help from the likes of Delores Jenison on additional harmony vocals and Faye Bruggink on clarinet. In the future we will sometimes be joined by percussionist "Bad Alan" with whom I have worked in several projects. We focus on original music but do bring in some choice covers from some of our favorite singer-songwriters and we generally have enough instruments to start a small music store between us. You'll find us in listening venues -- concert settings and coffeehouses, playing in Madison a few times a year. We will be looking to branch into neighboring areas soon, and may begin working on some recording projects as well.

About Michael: In a captivating, smooth baritone, Michael delivers his unforgettable songs, moving between catchy, can't-get-it-out-of-your-head tunes to stunningly beautiful, moving ballads. To the rest of us who call ourselves songwriters, his songs fall heavily into the "Man, I wish I'd written that!" category. I have the fun and satisfying role of adding to Michael's songs with harmony vocals and any of a number of instruments I love playing: Cello, viola, hammered dulcimer, guitar, bass, and/or piano. I generally can't bring them all to a show because my car won't hold everything, but I usually have 3 or 4 with me. (You gotta see my new electric viola and cello!) I also enjoy the opportunity to share some of my original tunes and choices of covers with Michael's assistance (harmony vocals plus extra guitar or bass or mandolin).

Otherwise, Acoustic Alloy is also alive and well! That is my duo with TC Peart, who was my colleague in Wild Heart. We have started booking some spring/summer shows. This is a cover act (with very occasional originals), featuring mostly TC's choices from a variety of styles and her powerhouse vocals (and me on harmonies). We perform as a duo (using guitar, mandolin, and keyboard) or sometimes as a trio with help from percussionist "Bad Alan." We have a lot of fun finding ways to arrange a complex variety of songs for our minimalist format. Crowd favorites in the past have been "Man in the Mirror" and "Uptown Funk." We play clubs/bars as well as small venues. Watch our website for schedule info if this sounds like your musical cup o' tea.

Obviously I'm not good at updating my blog. : - )
If you want to stay informed the best thing would be to either be my "friend" on Facebook (search for my name) or "like" my Facebook page (separate from my personal profile).

That said - I do have a show of my own coming up AUGUST 14 (2015, 8pm) at the Brink for the first time in a while! I'll have some friends participating with me. Please see the SHOWS page of my website. It would mean so much to me to see some smiling faces as I put a proverbial toe back into this water. I have been working on new material that I'm extremely excited about and I have fabulous colleagues joining me for the evening. Yes - even cello! (There's always room for cello!) And harmonies! And percussion! This is definitely my "dream team" and I can't wait to share this music - a mix of originals and some very fun covers drawn from jazz, blues, folk, and even some pop, from some of my favorite songwriters (Laura Nyro, Elton John, Nat King Cole, Diana Krall, and more).

Otherwise - I put in my resignation from the band Wild Heart (which plays "new country" covers) after six years, and it turns out the band is actually dis-banding after our last show, September 12. It's been a fun six years, but I (and at least a couple of my bandmates) have found the format too limiting. Today's new country has gone in directions that just don't interest me. More importantly, I have missed having time/energy available to put into music that is more in keeping with my own tastes and musical styles and which is more listener-oriented than dance-oriented. I will continue performing on occasion with TC from Wild Heart in the form of our side project Acoustic Alloy, which is a variety cover act (duo or trio with percussion). But mainly I am looking forward to returning to solo and collaborative performing again. I will be focusing on listening-oriented venues around the Madison area and perhaps will do some short road trips to neighboring areas.

I hope to see you soon!

Upcoming Shows - TJC/Acoustic Alloy/Wild Heart

Hi folks - Here's a list of shows on my radar for the next few weeks...see the links for details!

• July 16 (Tues)- WILD HEART @ Black Earth Concerts in the Park (Black Earth WI), 6:30-8:30pm. Free show. Food available for purchase on site.
• July 18 (Thurs) - ACOUSTIC ALLOY (duo with TC Peart from Wild Heart) @ The Brink Lounge (Madison WI), 7pm.  Early show, in the lounge. No cover. Special guest Shaun Petts will join in for a song or two.
• July 19 & July 20 (Fri/Sat) - WILD HEART @ Ho-Chunk Casino (Madison WI). No cover.
• July 28 (Sun) - Supporting Briana Patrice @ Waunafest (Waunakee WI) - 3pm, in the Chamber Beer Garden
• Aug. 1 (Thur) - WILD HEART @ Verona Concerts in the Park (Verona WI). Bring a blanket and a picnic! 6-8pm.
• Aug. 3 (Sat) - TRACY JANE COMER (solo) @ Sugar Maple Festival (Madison WI). With John Duggleby and Rich Baumann. We will each do a solo set and then finish with an in-the-round set.

Happy summer!

Website updated (finally)!

I have finally updated my website - www.tracyjanecomer.com. The photo gallery is still yet to be finished but the rest is done. If you are looking for something you can't find, please let me know!

I have some solo shows coming up for the first time in a while (August and November)...see the SHOWS page on the new site for details. Otherwise I am keeping busy with Wild Heart (www.wildheart.ws) and Acoustic Alloy (www.acousticalloy.com).  In fact, Acoustic Alloy has a show on Thursday, 7/18/13, at The Brink Lounge. Come on out - it's an early show, starting at 7pm! We will go until about 10:30pm.

wedding music songs

I was asked recently for some suggestions for nice wedding ballads. Here are my quick suggestions, drawn from ones I've done at weddings or have thought would be ideal. I'll try to add to the list if I think of others, or if folks suggest some good ones to me.

"Grow Old Along With Me" as performed by Mary Chapin Carpenter (John Lennon)

"I Will Be Here" - Steven Curtis Chapman

"He Is Good" - Carrie Underwood - Sung from a daughter to mother about wedding day - A fairly new song but I predict is being done/will be done at MANY weddings

"When I Said I Do" - Clint Black (best as a duet but could work as solo)

"Something That We Do" - Clint Black (similar sentiments to 1 Corinthians 13)

"The Gift of Love" - Hal Hopson's setting of 1 Corinthians 13 to tune of "The Water Is Wide"

"Beautiful In My Eyes" - Joshua Kadison

"Bless the Broken Road" – Carrie Underwood sings a nice solo version

"Valentine" - Martina McBride

"Here, There and Everywhere" - Beatles

"One Hand, One Heart" - from Westside Story

"The Wedding Song (There is Love)" - Still a goodie!

AND, a couple of unique choices - think outside the box!
The Wedding Song - By Tret Fure - It's on iTunes, on her "My Shoes" album. This is a REALLY beautiful wedding song! It's a shame not many folks know about it. (Tret is a very successful indie folk artist.) (If sheet music is required folks could ask me and I can work on getting this accomplished with Tret's permission since I create sheet music as a freelance, and I do know Tret personally.)

Ahem...My tune "Perfectly" has been used at weddings and it can be sampled on iTunes (from my album "Second Wind"). Here is a video link I did for someone after her wedding, and it shows the lyrics:
http://www.youtube.com/user/porchstringmusic#p/u/15/KGVDCnzdxKI
(I could provide sheet music for this tune.)

Cheers,
Tracy

New TAB available

*******EDIT 7/12/13:  The files are available on request, vs. being posted on the site. Please see www.tracyjanecomer.com and go to the CONTACT page to ask for the tab files.E

Hi folks - Over the years I've had requests for tablature for some of my instrumental guitar works. I finally just finished a new one - Rondo. Below are links to the two I have done so far....for a limited time I'll have these up for free....later I may be publishing a songbook and will have to pull the plug on the freebies then!

1. "Rondo"
2. "Movin' in the Right Direction"

Later I plan to publish "Inside Passage" and "Riffles and Runs."

(If you want to pick up the tunes themself and don't have the CDs they are on, you can find them on iTunes, Broadjam, and many other download sites.)

NOTE: Both of these require both a full capo and a partial capo. The partial capo is typically called an "Esus" capo and is available from Kayser or Shubb.

If there are other songs of mine that you would like to see a chart or some tab for, let me know. I have some full lead sheets that I've prepared on request for several tunes. (Flattery will get you everywhere.)

(And, if you are a songwriter or guitarist and would like something like this for your works, let me know that too....I do notation and transcription as a freelance.)

Feedback welcome.

Peace,
Tracy

Howdy from Tracy, and MAMAs info

Hi folks -I haven't written much in a while because I've been keeping busy with band WILD HEART (www.wildheart.ws) and also with my church band, Cornerstone. I haven't been performing much on my own lately but do have some plans to do that in 2011 and also plans for a couple of collaborative shows this year. Stay tuned!

For now, I wanted to encourage you all to participate again in the Madison Area Music Awards.

The first round of voting is now open, through March 21. This round will determine who becomes final nominees. You do have to join the MAMAs (Madison Area Music Association) with a minimum $5 contribution but that money goes to help put musical instruments into schoolkids' hands, so it's a great cause. You don't have to live in Madison to vote.

* NOTE: You do not have to vote in all categories (tons of them)
* Be sure to do the FINAL REVIEW and do that part (see bottom of the category list)
* Don't forget these categories, please! You don't have to vote for the things below...I won't know who did of course....but just in case you are so inclined and want to know where to find me....

• JAZZ SONG (I have TWO original songs in this category - "Just One Person" and "The Edge of Tedjhara" from my recent Jazz EP)
• FOLK/AMERICANA ALBUM (My recent acoutic EP, "You Have 29 Messages")
• COVER BAND - Wild Heart is here (visit us at www.wildheart.ws!!!!)
• RECORDING STUDIO - Randy's Recording (my producer/engineer/cowriter/performing partner)
• STUDIO SOUND ENGINEER - Randy's Green/Randy's Recording

TO PARTICIPATE: Go to www.themamas.org and choose NEW FAN SIGNUP.

Thanks, y'all!

My pal MICHAEL BRYANT doing a benefit concert Dec. 4 in Cambridge

I am so bummed I can't make this show (my band has a gig) but want to encourage all of you to go and support Michael as he releases his first SOLO CD! Many of you are familiar with Michael, as I've had the pleasure of performing with him in various configurations for years (with Sticky Fingers trio, as duo, and as trio with Randy Green). I remain a huge fan of Michael's. He's a brilliant songwriter and marvelous singer. So please mark December 4 on your calendar! -Tracy
================================
Benefit Concert for Cambridge Food Pantry, Featuring Michael Bryant

On Saturday December 4th the Cambridge Historic Old School Museum in partnership with the Oscar Hanson House Bed and Breakfast will present a concert of acoustic music in benefit for the Cambridge Food Pantry.

Music will be provided by Michael Bryant of Madison. A gifted songwriter, moving vocalist, and past winner of the American International song contest as well as multiple Addy awards for music for radio and television, Michael will present an evening of his original music and celebrate the release of his new CD, Finest Feather.

The concert will start at 5PM right after the Cambridge Christmas walk. Tickets will be $5 at the door and all proceeds from concert tickets and CD sales will go to benefit the Cambridge Food Pantry.

Date: December 4th
Time: 5 – 7PM
Location: 213 South Street Cambridge WI. 53523 - the Cambridge Historic Old School Museum (see: www.cambridgehistoricmuseum.org)
Sponsors: Oscar Hanson House Bed and Breakfast (see: www.ohhanson.com) and the Cambridge Historic Old School Museum

Opening show for DAR WILLAMS on October 27 in Madison!

This has been on my "dream gig" list for a while...so I guess dreams DO come true!

I'll be opening a show for the one and only amazing DAR WILLIAMS on October 27 at The Barrymore Theatre in Madison. She's been a huge huge inspiration and influence in my career so this is quite a special event for me. (If you've heard me perform, you've more than likely heard me mention her name or do one or more of her songs.)

October 27, 2010 (Wednesday)
Show starts at 7:30, doors open at 6:30
(general admission so you may want to come early for best seats)
Barrymore Theatre - 2090 Atwood Avenue, Madison
608-241-8864

Tickets: $26 on sale at Sugar Shack, Star Liquor, Mad City Music, B-Side, Frugal Muse, Strictly Discs, The Barrymore, and online at TrueEndeavors.com, or call 608-241-8633.
(This show could easily sell out so make your plans soon!)

All about Dar -- http://www.darwiliams.com

Download flyer here (has ticket sales info and venue address etc):
http://www.tracyjanecomer.com/posters/DW-TJC_2010flyer.pdf

Handbills for sharing (thank you!!! These are 4 to a page):
http://www.tracyjanecomer.com/posters/DW-TJC_handbills.pdf

======================
Other news:

I just released a special project EP called "In a Sentimental Mood." This is something a bit different from my usual, as it came out of a benefit show I did in 2009 with some great colleagues , helping to fund a mission trip to New Orleans by the youth of Good Shepherd Church (Madision). The event had a jazz theme so the music was a mix of jazz standards and my more jazz-flavored originals. I really enjoyed putting the music together for that show, and wanted to capture a sampling of it. You can read all about it on my website. A portion of sales will help support future activities of the group.
http://www.tracyjanecomer.com/Music.htm

And, I am putting together ANOTHER NEW EP (2 in one year after a LONG lull!), all original, which will be a mix of solo and duo works (will my longtime collaborator Randy Green) with both instrumental and vocal tunes. Hopefully I'll have at least some "pre-release" copies on by the October 27 show with Dar Williams. (And since some of you are asking, YES, "Inside Passage" will be on this new EP.)

Thank you all for your ongoing support!

Tracy Jane Comer & Friends EP Release Show Thurs. 9/30 at The Brink!

Hi y'all - As most of you know I'm keeping busy these days as part of the Madison area band Wild Heart (and having lots of fun with that, singing and playing guitar, fiddle and keys) but I do still occasionally perform on my own or with my long-time duo partner Randy Green. As a matter of fact...Randy and I have a show coming right up, with some very special guests!
Details below....hope to see you there!

* * * * * * * * * * *

Tracy Jane Comer & Randy Green (duo) PLUS SPECIAL GUESTS!!!

EP RELEASE SHOW for latest project, In a Sentimental Mood
September 30 (Thursday) - 8 pm to midnight
The Brink Lounge (Madison, WI)

About the EP: A collection of jazz-flavored originals and standards, recorded following a special jazz-themed benefit show in March 2009 helping to raise funds for a mission trip for the high school youth of Good Shepherd Lutheran Church in Madison. Featuring Tracy (vocals, guitar, piano) plus Ben Johnston Urey (piano), Steve Kasprzak (upright bass), Leif Madsen (drums), and Randy Green (piano, synth). So this is a bit of a "red herring," but we had such a great time putting the show together we wanted to preserve some of what we came up with. AND...a portion of the sales will continue to benefit the youth of Good Shepherd for future projects. (Online and iTunes digital sales will be coming soon! Digital sales already available through Broadjam.com -- click ALBUMS)

***Special Guests for this show***

Theresa "TC" Peart - Tracy's bandmate from Wild Heart (www.wildheart.ws)
TC will be guest on lead and backing vocals, so if you haven't come out to a band show yet you'll get a little taste of what we do with the band and more! TC is one of the most amazing, powerful and versatile vocalists I've ever met and I love singing with her in Wild Heart. She'll be stretching out a little and heading into some non-country territory for this show!

Delores Jenison - Tracy's bandmate from Cornerstone
Delores can harmonize with a wall with her smooth alto! We're both part of a church band but enjoy singing all types of music together and she has joined me for a couple of shows in the last year, with rave reviews.

LOCATION: The Brink Lounge
701 E. Washington Ave. Suite 105
Madison, WI 53703
8:00 pm to midnight

The show will be in the comfy lounge (yay!), where you'll have easy access to purchase great drinks & food (I love their martinis...). No cover!

ABOUT THE BRINK: Madison's hot upscale 12,000 square foot wine & martini bar, coffeehouse, and nightclub, adjacent to the High Noon Saloon. Smoke-free.
PARKING for THE BRINK: Free parking on Main Street, MG&E parking lots both sides of Main Street, Blount Street and 701 Parking Lot. Avoid parking at the paint store off Blount Street, as the property owner does not wish to participate in the "Good Neighbor Parking" and tickets are being issued at the Paint Store parking lot off Blount. Signs are posted in this area.

Tracy Jane Comer's web site - www.tracyjanecomer.com
The Brink Lounge - www.thebrinklounge.com

[CLICK HERE for a printable page with show details]

Show on Saturday at Overture Center and more

I hope everyone is having a great summer! I'm immensely enjoying gardening season...That is, my husband does the gardening and I do the eating. Latest yummy crop is some amazing little green peas! Okra on the way soon - that's my favorite.
: - )

* * * * *

SATURDAY SHOW AT OVERTURE CENTER, STARTING AT NOON (free!)
I have a show on Saturday from noon to 1:00 pm at the Overture Center, as duo with my pal Delores Jenison on backing vocals. So if you're heading to the Farmer's Market Saturday morning, stop by! It will be in the Rotunda....there will be signs pointing the way.
There will be another performer from 11:00 to 12:00 -- Boo Bradley.
(This is a FREE show, presented in conjunction with Madison Folk Music Society and Wild Hog in the Woods.)
Read more about this show and the series at this URL:
http://www.madfolk.org/Events_2010summer.htm

* * * * *

WILD HEART GIGS: (Wild Heart is the country band I joined in January)
We have a busy summer schedule including a few private events and some out-of-town things, plus appearances at least monthly in the greater Madison area. For schedule and details see:
http://wildheart.fanbridge.com/tourdates/
For official web site, see:
http://www.wildheart.ws/

* * * * *

JAZZ EP UPDATE:
Anticipated release of the Jazz EP will be August 1. Getting artwork done now...

* * * * *

A LITTLE HUMOR (defined very loosely):

How many bluegrass musicians does it take to change a light bulb?
Three, one to change the bulb and two to complain that it's electric.

How many folk musicians does it take to change a light bulb?
Four, one to put in the new bulb and three to sing about how good the old one was.

How many country bass players does it take to change a light bulb?
One, five, one, five, one, five . . .

How many drummers does it take to change a light bulb?
"What? Oh, wow! Is it like dark, man?"

How many sound techs does it take to change a light bulb?
"Hey, I just do sound."

How many lead guitarists does it take to change a light bulb?
None, they just steal somebody else's light.

* * * * *

Cheers,
Tracy

Mother's Day Song, Milwaukee Appearance May 11, Jazz EP, and Wild Heart shows

Here's a hodgepodge of stuff...


Mother's Day dedication (free download for a period of time):
http://www.broadjam.com/artists/songs.php?artistID=11908&mediaID=71374
(free download there plus lyrics/info etc.)
This is one of the first songs I ever wrote/recorded - from my CD Second Wind.

* * * * * *

Show Tuesday night May 11 in Milwaukee - CHICK SINGER NIGHT!
Caroline's, Milwaukee -- 8 pm shart start time [Click here for full details]
I'll be part of a showcase that will also include Carmen Nickerson, Shae Fiol, Katie Beth, Annie Denison, Nora Collins ("chicklette"), and director, Alaria Taylor. We will all be backed by the incomparable CSN band (The Rockin' Roosters) and will provide backing vocals for each other on some tunes. This is always a total blast!
If you' re in the area please plan to come - being an out-of-towner, I could use some folks to cheer me on. If you know folks in the Milwaukee area please encourage them to come! It's 7 performers for the price of one!

* * * * * *

JAZZ EP on the way!
Randy (Green, of Randy's Recording) and I just finshed mixing/mastering an upcoming EP release featuring 7 jazz tracks...5 standards and 2 originals. This project came about as a result of a special show I did last year as a fundraiser for Good Shepherd church's High School Ministry, helping them raise money for a youth conference in New Orleans in summer of 2009. More info coming soon....shooting for July or August release!

* * * * * *

The band I recently joined, WILD HEART (country Top 40), has lots of shows on the schedule for 2010 including these in May: Bratfest (May 28), Country Corners in McFarland (May 29), New Glarus Community Festival (May 30). Lots more beyond that! In this 5-piece group I play guitar, keys, and fiddle and sing (backup and some lead). We perform several shows every month and it's always a blast. See any of these links for the full band schedule and dust off your dancing boots:
* http://www.wildheart.ws/
* http://wildheart.fanbridge.com/tourdates/
* http://www.madtownlounge.com/members/profile.asp?id=380

Peace,
Tracy

Shows for late Feb & March

Show schedule for late February & March 2010

Friday night (Feb. 26), Madison: Michael Bryant & Tracy Jane Comer as opener for James Keelaghan
Madison Folk Music Society concert. In addition to featuring the fabulous James Keelaghan, this show is a rare opportunity to hear Michael Bryant perform. I'll be supporting Michael on cello, hammered dulcimer and backing vocals for the opening set.
Full details in nifty printable form: www.madfolk.org/eventpages/2010-02-26jameskeelaghan.htm

March 4, 5, 7: 3 of Cups shows in Minnesota
See www.3ofcups.info for more information on this fun collaborative project with Rachel Nelson and Michael "Stix" Kiley.

March 11: "Unplugged" Songwriter Showcase in Lake Mills, WI
Madison Songwriters Guild Event, in-the-round with John Crossman and host Rich Baumann.
Full details in nifty printable form: http://www.tracyjanecomer.com/showinfo/2010-03-11msg.htm

March 19, Madison: Dinner and a Show with Tracy Jane Comer & Friends - Special fundraising event at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church in Madison. The performing ensemble will include Tracy Jane Comer (vocals, guitar, fiddle, dulcimer, bass), Michael Bryant (vocals, guitar, bass), Randy Green (keys, guitar, vocals), Tom Dehlinger (dobro), plus Delores Jenison and Carol Hulland (backing vocals).
Advance reservations recommended - last year's event sold out. Watch www.tracyjanecomer.com or www.gslcwi.com for reservations info soon

Also....

The band I recently joined, WILD HEART (country Top 40), has many shows on the schedule for 2010 including shows March 13 (Portage, WI) and March 20 (McFarland). In this 5-piece group I play guitar, keys, and fiddle and sing (backup and some lead). We perform several shows every month and it's always a blast. See any of these links for the full band schedule and dust off your dancing boots:

• http://www.wildheart.ws/
  
• http://wildheart.fanbridge.com/tourdates/
• http://www.madtownlounge.com/members/profile.asp?id=380

Peace,
Tracy

Duo show Jan. 14 (with Randy) plus WILD HEART band shows

This new year brings some exciting new things!

First, I have a duo show with Randy Green and also special guest Steve Doiel (pictured) on Thursday (Jan. 14) at The Brink Lounge in Madison. We'll be in the comfy lounge and will keep it casual, trading songs during the evening. Steve (of Janesville) is long known for his skills as a vocalist, songwriter, and guitarist. He has played with The Rodeo Cats, Feather River, The Stateline Playboys, Harmonious Wail, Swing Crew, and 18 seasons at Noah's Ark in Wisconsin Dells. He currently plays with The Bel-Cats and the Steve Doiel Trio.

This weeknight show starts at 7:00....come relax for a while with us and enjoy some great drinks and appetizers at mine & Randy's favorite local venue.
Details:
http://www.tracyjanecomer.com/showinfo/2010-01-14brink.htm

Now the big news -- I have joined a Madison area band:
WILD HEART!

There's a nice article by a local paper about how this came to be: http://www.thedailypage.com/daily/article.php?article=27892

This 5-piece Top 40 Country band exploded onto the music scene in 1993 when right out of the gate they won pickoffs, battle of the bands, played festivals and shared the stage with national acts such as Ricky Van Shelton and Hal Ketchum. Since then, they have traveled the state to become a regional favorite on the festival stage and are equally comfortable performing for community events or at the local hang out. As Wild Heart performs some of today’s hottest Country hits you will hear amazing 3 and 4 part harmonies that you normally expect to hear only at large venues.

I've been rehearsing with the group for a few weeks and having a great time learning the material and making music with these fine players and singers. You can read about the group and the individual members at http://www.wildheart.ws/

My first outings with the band will be Saturday January 16 at Country Corners in McFarland(east of Madison) and Wednesday January 20 at Quaker Steak and Lube in Middleton. I'll be on lead and backing vocals for the first couple of shows and then will be adding in some guitar and keys for future gigs. Bring your dancing shoes...uh...boots!

For details on these shows and more see these URLs:

http://www.tracyjanecomer.com/Gigs.htm

http://tracyjanecomer.fanbridge.com/tourdates/

Or see the Wild Heart site for many shows scheduled for 2010:
http://www.wildheart.ws/

Peace and blessings to you all in 2010!

-Tracy

Re: Breast Cancer Awareness Month - Consider THERMOGRAPHY as screening tool

Since this is Breast Cancer Awareness month I feel compelled to post info to let women know there is a great screening tool available that is non-invasive and unlike mammograms, does not increase your risk of the getting the cancer it purports to detect - there is absolutely no radiation involved. It is also very cheap (I paid about $250 for a series of two tests done 3 or 4 months apart) so though not covered by insurance it is well worth the money to me. You can choose to have this study instead of or in addition to mammography - your choice.

The screening tool is Breast Thermography. Please Google it to learn more and you can also do searches to find a center in your area that does thermography. If I post any one particular article then someone might write to me with something to counter that particular one or try to discredit that source. There are articles on both sides of the issue of whether thermography is valid...everything I have read leads me to trust it far more than mammograms when all factors are considered. That is my personal decision and you may feel differently.

My reason for writing is just to get info out for women to follow up on in making their own healthcare decisions. The information we are spoon-fed by the mainstream ad-supported media is hardly a true and accurate picture and if you rely solely on that information, you cannot make informed choices.

I encourage you to read about thermography (and many other health issues) from a variety of sources and form your own conclusions. At the same time I challenge you to be very aware of the source of information for ANYTHING you read about healthcare, whether it is pro or con on any issue. Consider the profit motives. Also sites/media that are ad-supported, for instance (most of our mainstream media) are most certainly going to have slanted views because they cannot irritate their advertisers. (We do not have a true free press in our country.) The medical and pharmaceutical industries are the source of the biggest advertising dollars. (We are one of the only countries in the world that allow that type of advertising.)

If you are the sort that does still prefer to get info from mainstream media, here is a video that tells about thermography from network TV:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aaS3VIyltJQ
(I think this is a pretty good video except that I personally disagree what they say at the end about encouraging women to still get mammograms in addition to the thermograms.)

Flu Vaccines - DON'T DO IT!

(This has nothing to do with music.)
If you are considering getting a flu vaccine or in particular a swine flu vaccine, folks, please think again. Do some reading. The vaccine is more dangerous than the flu and now even FOX news has folks on the air saying so.
Especially if you are a parent - please see this article. Do not risk harming your child with yet more dangerous vaccines.
Watch this video from Fox News
There is TONS out there on this subject and many many credible sources that are advising against the vaccine.
Increase your intake of Vitamins D and C and avoid processed foods during this flu season to boost your immune respons. Drink plenty of water and wash your hands often. But do not get this dangerous vaccine!

Show Schedule - Sept./Oct.

Hi all - After a long long long hiatus from performing I have some shows coming up! I'll spare you the shameless marketing lingo....you can see all the detail of any of these shows by clicking the related links. Suffice it to say that it feels soooo good to be making some music again, especially with my favorite collaborators. I really look forward to sharing that experience so hope to see some of you at these shows!

UPCOMING SHOWS (September/October - See web site for dates farther out)

Sep 26, 2009 - Saturday
Oregon, WI (US) - Art in the Barn
Michael Bryant & Tracy Jane Comer (duo) opening for Graham & Co. (Tracy will also join Graham & Co.)
This will be a rare and great opportunity to hear Michael's gorgeous voice and beautiful songs -- I'll be backing him up for this spot.
DETAILS | POSTER

Oct 2, 2009 - Friday
Sun Prairie, WI (US) - Higher Grounds Coffeehouse (Hosted by Living Water Church)
Tracy Jane Comer & Friends
With very special guests as supporting musicians:
Delores Jenison & Carol Hulland (backing vocals); Randy Green & Field Stark (keyboards); John Driscoll (percussion); and Faye Bruggink (clarinet).
DETAILS | POSTER

Oct 9, 2009 - Friday
Oregon, WI - Oregon Arts Festival
Tracy Jane Comer Trio (with Randy Green & Michael Bryant)
Opening events for the weekend festival.
DETAILS

Oct. 15-18, 2009
Mountain View, Arkansas - I'll be attending SERFA Convention (Southeast Regional Folk Alliance)
Performing as official showcase artist as part of 3 of Cups with my colleague Rachel Nelson

Oct. 30, 2009 - Friday
Madison, WI
I am not performing BUT I am helping to promote a HOUSE CONCERT for the fabulous JACK WILLIAMS.
DETAILS

WANT A REMINDER EMAILED FOR ANY SHOW, 2 DAYS IN ADVANCE? You can schedule your own show reminders a la carte - I do not send out show reminders so this will be my only email to you before these shows. To set up your own, access my show schedule HERE in this nifty format (thanks, FanBridge!) and click the "Remind Me" button for any show(s) that you want reminders for.

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HOUSE CONCERT - COMMON TIME HOUSE CONCERTS PRESENTS JACK WILLIAMS (national touring artist now based in Arkansas)

Date: October 30 - show starts at 7:30 pm, doors open 6:45 pm
Jack is one of my all -time favorites and is one of the best guitarists you'll ever hear. He writes wonderful songs delivered with humor, honesty, and insightfulness....and as a South Carolina native he does so with a southern wisdom and kindly charm. And I can think of no better way to enjoy Jack's performance than in a house concert. I'm helping to organize this...My pals James and Sarah graciously offered their lovely home (and new addition perfect for house concerts!). Click here for full details and to find out how to RSVP. If you've never been to a house concert you're really missing out -- it is *the* best way to experience acoustic music from fine songwriters -- up close and personal.

RIP Aunt Jane

RIP Jane Geddie Stephens
8/13/1946 to 8/14/2009

Jane was my aunt and my life hero, who enabled me to become a musician and did more for me than I could begin to recount. And I am just one of the many lives she touched.

Jane had requested a song be played on CD at her Celebration of Life service..."Wayfaring Stranger," a traditional tune recorded previously by one of my side projects, Sticky Fingers, but not yet published on CD. A number of folks have been asking about the song. I have uploaded the song temporarily for anyone who wants to play or download it:
http://tracyjanecomer.com/MP3/WayfaringStranger.mp3

More related links:
Obituary

Legacy page where folks can leave comments

Peace,
Tracy