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The Creation of Labor Day

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Labor Day 2021 will occur on Monday, September 6. Labor Day pays tribute to the contributions and achievements of American workers and is traditionally observed on the first Monday in September. It was created by the labor movement in the late 19th century and became a federal holiday in 1894. Labor Day weekend also symbolizes the end of summer and the start of the back-to-school season for many Americans, and is celebrated with parties, street parades and athletic events.

Labor Day, an annual celebration of workers and their achievements, originated during one of American labor history’s most dismal chapters.

In the late 1800s, at the height of the Industrial Revolution in the United States, the average American worked 12-hour days and seven-day weeks in order to eke out a basic living. Despite restrictions in some states, children as young as 5 or 6 toiled in mills, factories and mines across the country, earning a fraction of their adult counterparts’ wages.

People of all ages, particularly the very poor and recent immigrants, often faced extremely unsafe working conditions, with insufficient access to fresh air, sanitary facilities and breaks.

As manufacturing increasingly supplanted agriculture as the wellspring of American employment, labor unions, which had first appeared in the late 18th century, grew more prominent and vocal. They began organizing strikes and rallies to protest poor conditions and compel employers to renegotiate hours and pay.

Many of these events turned violent during this period, including the infamous Haymarket Riot of 1886, in which several Chicago policemen and workers were killed. Others gave rise to long standing traditions: On September 5, 1882, 10,000 workers took unpaid time off to march from City Hall to Union Square in New York City, holding the first Labor Day parade in U.S. history.

The idea of a “workingmen’s holiday,” celebrated on the first Monday in September, caught on in other industrial centers across the country, and many states passed legislation recognizing it. Congress would not legalize the holiday until 12 years later, when a watershed moment in American labor history brought workers’ rights squarely into the public’s view.

In 1893, during a nationwide economic recession, George Pullman laid off hundreds of employees and cut wages for many of the remaining workers at his namesake railroad car company by some 30 percent. Meanwhile, he refused to lower rents or store prices in Pullman, Illinois, the company town south of Chicago where many of his employees lived.  Angry Pullman workers walked out in May 1894, and the following month, the American Railway Union (ARU) and its leader, Eugene V. Debs, declared a sympathy boycott of all trains using Pullman cars.

The Pullman strike effectively halted rail traffic and commerce in 27 states stretching from Chicago to the west coast, driving the General Managers Association (GMA), a group that represented Chicago’s railroad companies, to seek help from the federal government in shutting the strike down.

On June 29, some crowd members attending a Debs speech in Blue Island, Illinois, set fires to nearby buildings and derailed a locomotive attached to a U.S. mail train. U.S. Attorney General Richard Olney used the incident to ask for an injunction against the strike and its leaders from the federal district court in Chicago, which he got on July 2.

“This was the turning point, because it prevented the ARU and Debs from doing anything to support or direct the strike,” says Richard Schneirov, professor of history at Indiana State University. “Labor has for much of its history been hemmed in by injunctions, but the Pullman injunction was the first big instance where it really came to the attention of the public.”

The following day, President Cleveland dispatched federal troops to the city to enforce the injunction. Illinois’ pro-labor governor, John Peter Altgeld, who had already called out state militia troops to prevent violence, was outraged, calling the government’s actions unconstitutional. With the arrival of federal troops, the Pullman strike turned bloody, with some rioters destroying hundreds of railroad cars in South Chicago on July 6, and National Guardsmen firing into a mob on July 7, killing as many as 30 people and wounding many others.

Even as Pullman Company and railroad workers were striking, Congress passed legislation in June 1894 making the first Monday in September a federal legal holiday to recognize and celebrate labor. Cleveland signed the bill into law June 28, 1894, a few days before sending federal troops to Chicago.

“It was a way of being supportive of labor,” Schneirov says. “Labor unions were a constituency of the Democratic Party at the time, and it didn't look good for Cleveland, who was a Democrat, to be putting down this strike.”

Federal troops were recalled from Chicago on July 20, and the Pullman strike was declared over in early August. 

Aside from the first major instance of “government by injunction” in the struggle between labor and capital, the Pullman strike also marked part of an important transition in American society during the Progressive Era, and a newly active role for the federal government in the nation’s economic and social life.

The Uniform Monday Holiday Act of 1968 changed several holidays to ensure they would always be observed on Mondays so that federal employees could have more three-day weekends. The Act, signed into law on June 28, 1968, moved Washington’s Birthday Memorial Day, and Columbus Day to fixed Mondays each year.

Excerpt from History.com

Music is for all ages

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 Not all of us were lucky enough to have music lessons as children.  However, you will be pleased to know that it’s never too late to take up a new hobby! Many of us were too busy working to support a family or raising our children, and only as older adults or in retirement, we find the time and resources to pick up a musical instrument. It’s important to engage in activities we enjoy and challenge us in order to stay mentally, physically and socially healthy. Learning how to play an instrument might just be the perfect hobby.

Learning how to play a musical instrument has many positive effects on our brain. Countless studies show that studying music improves our memory and reasoning abilities. Improvements in social skills, motor skills, discipline and self esteem also seem to result from learning how to play a musical instrument. Learning music also spills over into other subjects, and children who study music do better in reading and math. Even though some of these studies suggest that these benefits are greatest when we study as children, benefits are found in people throughout all age ranges.

Finding an instrument to learn at any age will boost your brain and will give you an edge against developing dementia. By picking up a new instrument, you stand to improve not only your memory, motor skills, math skills, self esteem, but also your reaction times, coordination, and concentration.

Another effect of music, either playing it or listening to it, is relaxation. Relaxation will, in turn, lower blood pressure, heart rate and stress levels. Stress, as research shows, is very damaging to our health in many ways. It’s a win for both mind and body.

Below are some of the most popular instruments people pick up, even though all of them will have incredible effects on your brain and health, each offers some specific characteristics.

The piano could be easier to learn than let’s say guitar because you won’t have to hold it while trying to coordinate your brain, eyes and fingers. Pianos are beautiful and timeless. But they’re also big, so you’ll need considerable space to put it and pianos generally aren’t cheap.

Guitars offer plenty of options: electric, acoustic, bass...The spectrum of types of music and styles that guitars can cover is also very large, which will give you lots of room to experiment and choose. Guitars are also very portable, so it will be easy to take it with you anywhere. Guitars can also be very affordable.

Ukuleles are smaller than guitars and have four strings instead of six, which may make them slightly easier to learn. They are very portable and usually less expensive than guitars.

The harmonica is less common but it also has its unique characteristics. Learning how to play the harmonica will increase lung capacity and breath control, which could benefit people with respiratory issues. This could be said about all wind instruments.  Playing wind instruments will also strengthen facial muscles and coordination, so it is sometimes recommended for stroke patients.

The harmonica is also very portable and affordable.

Learning how to play drums will not only give your brain a workout, it can give you a great physical and cardio workout as well. Playing drums can be a great stress reliever because you’ll be moving all four limbs and practically all your body, you can bang on those drums hard and get as loud as you want. Drums are also great to practice your math skills, you’ll have to count your beats and you’ll be working with fractions. The drawbacks can be space, you’ll need some room, lack of portability (even though you can “drum” on different surfaces if you’re creative), price, and of course sound level if your neighbors are too close.

Of course there are countless options (violin, voice, flute, cello, banjo), whatever instrument you pick, it should be what you feel drawn to. You should pick an instructor that will design a course with your interests in mind and move at your own pace, and most importantly you should be having fun. When buying an instrument, consider buying online, since usually you will find better prices. Your instructor can help you select the best quality instrument within your price range. He or she should also help you select the appropriate size and other characteristics that need to be considered.

While learning an instrument requires discipline and dedication, the rewards are more than worth it.  With a combination of hard work and patience, you will see a boost to your confidence and a wonderful sense of achievement. Plus you will be doing wonders to your brain and health in general.  Enjoy the journey.


Happy Mother's Day

Music is the perfect gift for mom. A gift that will last a lifetime and create countless memories. We offer personalized lessons in your home, online or in studio. Guitar lessons. Piano lessons. Ukulele lessons. Violin lessons. Voice lessons. Drum lessons. And more. Servicing Weston, Pembroke Pines, Coral Springs, Southwest Ranches, Miami, Miramar, Hollywood, Fort Lauderdale, Plantation, Davie, Sunrise, Parkland, Boca Raton, Boynton, Delray, Pompano, Lighthouse Point and Orlando since 1996.

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Celebrate Earth

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Earth has taken care and sustained us for millennia. If you love anyone younger than you, please consider leaving them an Earth that can sustain them as well. Clean air and clean affordable water are not a given, neither are healthy oceans or rainforests. We can all do our part in protecting our only home. Here are some simple ideas:

-Consume less meat and other animal products in general (the majority of rainforest destruction is due to clearing for cattle production)

-Avoid buying products that come in single use plastic packaging (maybe trade your bottled water for a reusable metal, ceramic, or plastic sports water bottle) Choose glass containers when possible.

-Bring your own reusable bag to the store and avoid taking their plastic bags

-Conserve water

-Reduce the amount of paper you use

-Buy less of everything (who needs a new shirt, shoes, or makeup every month?)

-Buy second hand when possible

-Plant a tree (or as many as you can)

-Ask your friends to love Earth too

Acoustic or Electric Guitar

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First off, congrats on your decision to start learning to play a musical instrument. Music will change your life forever. That said, you’ll be happy to hear that there’s no wrong answer. You can learn on either acoustic or electric. Both have six strings. They both have a long neck that’s divided  into sections by pieces of metal called frets. They’re  both tuned low to high EADGBE in standard tuning. The notes are the same. The scales and chords you learn on one can be applied to the other. Some techniques and approaches to playing vary, but the fundamentals are the same, and whether you choose electric or acoustic you will be amazed at the progress you can make in a short space of time. There are some differences however. These are a few things you may want to consider. 

Feel

The main difference between playing an acoustic and electric guitar is how they feel. Acoustic guitars are bigger and bulkier and the strings have more tension and are higher than on the electric guitar, so they’re harder on your fingers. Electric guitars are typically smaller and easier to hold and the strings feel softer under your fingers. But it’s important to understand that everybody feels some finger pain or discomfort in the beginning. No matter what type of guitar you start on, your fingers will eventually toughen up and they won’t hurt anymore. The big and bulky acoustic guitar will sit on your lap very differently to the slim and contoured electric guitar. However, electric guitars are much heavier than acoustic guitars. Acoustic guitars come in a wider range of sizes.  This is important because it’s essential that you pick a guitar which is appropriate for your body size, especially when selecting a guitar for a child. A child trying to play a full-size acoustic guitar may struggle to reach the fretboard.  Another difference in the feel is that there is less space between each string in an electric guitar, so cords can feel more difficult to play. The space between each string is wider on an acoustic, so when it comes to learning chords, you have lots of room to put your fingers.

Complexity and Versatility

Another important difference between an electric and an acoustic is that one can be amplified and the other can’t. Acoustic guitars are great for beginners as they are simple, easy to use and have all you need to get started. There are no complications, what you see is what you get. The acoustic guitar is a great starting point as you don’t have to worry about learning about accessories or plugging it into anything.  However bare in mind, that due to their simplicity, acoustic guitars are limited to one sound, you cannot add effects to an acoustic guitar. Electric guitars are a lot more versatile when it comes to sounds. As you have an external amp, there’s a huge opportunity for sound expansion. Most amps have a clean channel and a distortion channel, so instantly you have more tone options than an acoustic. You can also enhance your sound by adding effect pedals to your guitar sound.  The advantage to the simplicity of the acoustic guitar is that all you need is the guitar and you’ll have your sound with you. You don’t need an external amp for it to be heard. The electric guitar without the amp won’t have any sound.

Cost

The rule of thumb is that an electric guitar will be more expensive than an acoustic guitar. In addition to the guitar you will need accessories like an amp and the guitar cable, which will add to the cost.

Type of music you are looking to play

This is probably the most important factor when making your decision. Technically, you can play any style of music on any type of guitar. But each style of music tends to work better with a specific type of guitar. Think of your favorite artists and your favorite songs, and go with the type of guitar they play. Many times when you first start learning to play an instrument the hardest part is to make yourself practice. So make sure you pick the guitar that inspires you and that you will want to play. If you love what you're playing, you’ll have more fun, and you will practice more. If you still feel like you’re really stuck, try not to worry.  There’s always another guitar. If you think an acoustic guitar is the right way to go now, but love rock music and the tones of an electric guitar, you can always get one later. Same thing goes for an electric guitar. You may want to try electric now, and eventually try the more melodic sounds of an acoustic. Whatever you decide, one thing is for sure, playing the guitar or any musical instrument, is very rewarding and expands our minds and spirit in infinite ways.


Music News From NPR : Musicians Turn To New Software To Play Together Online

Whether for work, school or doctor's appointments, almost everyone has used Zoom. But for musicians who want to play together online during the pandemic, the popular conference call platform doesn't cut it. Musicians and scientists on opposite coasts have been trying to find solutions. The eclectic brass quartet The Westerlies shares its experiences with Audio Movers and Jack Trip software.

Hear the radio version at the audio link.https://www.npr.org/2020/11/21/937043051/musicians-turn-to-new-software-to-play-together-online

Veterans Day 2020

We want to express our most heartfelt feelings of appreciation to our veterans. A simple “thank you” , however, doesn’t seem enough when we consider all that our veterans selflessly give to so many others. Thank you for your service, time, energy, bravery, love of country, love of your fellow citizens, sacrifice in the most extensive meaning of the word. Thank you for giving so much, so the rest of us don’t have to. THANK YOU!!! We honor you today and always!!

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Choosing between a digital and an acoustic piano.

I believe most people greatly appreciate, and few would question, the timeless beauty and elegance of an acoustic piano, and most of us easily fall under a spell when the majestic and almost heavenly music that it can produce plays. This article, shared by the Roland UK Team, however, highlights some features offered by digital pianos that some of us may not be aware of, and might be important characteristics to consider when choosing what instrument to invest in.

Choosing between a digital and an acoustic piano can be confusing. The acoustic piano has changed very little from the instrument of Cristofori’s day. There has been some tinkering with:- key length- hammer felt- aesthetic changes to cabinet making.…

Choosing between a digital and an acoustic piano can be confusing. The acoustic piano has changed very little from the instrument of Cristofori’s day. There has been some tinkering with:

- key length

- hammer felt

- aesthetic changes to cabinet making.

On the other hand, digital pianos have undergone a huge transformation. Most importantly, improvements in:

- weighted keys

- improved timbres and

- inbuilt technologies to help keep playing interesting, fun and motivational

Understanding the differences between acoustic and digital can help you make an informed decision. This is true whether you’re an advanced player, a complete beginner or a parent investing in a piano for your child.

Choosing between an acoustic piano and digital piano

An acoustic piano produces sound with felt-covered hammers hitting steel-wire strings. A digital piano doesn’t use hammers. Instead it features electronic speakers to playback high quality recordings taken from the very best acoustic pianos.

The touch of a piano is important to the player. Playing on stiff keys can be frustrating as can keys that are too light with no resistance. Digital pianos are able to simulate the weighted keys of an acoustic with seamless lifelike hammers. There is even the option on some digital pianos to adjust the touch sensitivity of the keys. This can be done to suit a player’s preference. Low touch sensitivity means the player has to press the keys harder to make them louder. High touch sensitivity means you don’t have to press as hard for the same loud result.

Digital pianos have a range of sounds available. You can switch between strings, church organs or harpsichord at the touch of a button. Some digital pianos let you split the keyboard. This allows one sound to be played at the bottom with a different sound at the top. This can make for a more expressive and varied performance. Learners often have fun experimenting with sounds.

Storing your digital or acoustic piano at home

When choosing between a digital and acoustic piano for your home, it’s important to think about where it’s stored. An acoustic piano needs to be in a room where the temperature doesn’t fluctuate. Changes in humidity can affect tuning. A digital piano doesn’t need tuning or maintenance so can be accommodated in any room regardless of temperature. Its portability also means you can move or relocate it without too much hassle. Acoustic pianos are usually very heavy so tend to stay put in one place.

The space available is also a consideration when choosing between a digital and acoustic piano. Digital pianos can be compact if there isn’t much space available. An acoustic piano is usually much larger and the sound can be compromised if positioned too close to a wall. Obviously, this requires even more space.

Use headphones for playing day or night

The headphone connection on a digital piano removes any restrictions with early morning or late night practice sessions. Plugging in a set of headphones provides immediate and direct sound. Importantly, it also builds confidence by playing in private. Not only that, it keeps family, roommates and neighbors at peace too.

Some digital pianos have two headphone sockets so you can play in private with friends or alongside a tutor to analyze, praise and critique your performance.

Keep motivated during practice time

Everyone experiences motivational slumps. This happens whether you have been playing for years or just started learning under  a teacher. This is where a digital piano can really come into its own. Digital pianos have the ability to connect to an iPad/iPhone and use a range of apps to encourage practice. These include:

- easy to learn note games

- digital sheet music or

- on-screen guides to improve hand and fingering action

There are countless APPS available, designed to help and improve your performance.

The inbuilt metronome on a digital piano is a blessing when learning a new piece or tackling a new time signature. It helps improve rhythmic skills and develops your inner timing. In addition, you can use the record function and listen back to your performance. This is a great way to analyze and improve.

Taking playing the piano to another level

Whether you simply fancy a break from practice or want to be the next Andrew Lloyd Webber, the digital piano offers tools for composition. Pianos with a USB port let you transport the file back to your computer for instant notation. This will save hours in the process.


The key differences – choosing between a digital and acoustic piano

- Tuning: Acoustic pianos need tuning on a regular basis as well as general maintenance and restringing. Digital pianos don’t require tuning.

- Space: Acoustic pianos are larger than digital pianos and need much more space to get the optimum sound.

- Portability: digital pianos generally weigh less and can be moved around and transported with little hassle.

- Technology: digital pianos incorporate features that allow for experimentation in playing, can be motivational to practice and lets players explore composition and recording

- Versatility: an acoustic piano offers just one sound; a digital piano gives you a broad choice of pianos and other instruments