“The four building blocks of the universe are fire, water, gravel and vinyl.” ~ Dave Barry.

To the kids of today’s generation this will probably mean nothing.  Some of the rest of you will smile and immediately retreat into a reverie of memory.  On occasions I will play a vinyl track on one of my radio shows.  The reaction is always the same;  somebody will pass comment (in the chat room) “Good to hear that vinyl hiss…”  In our digital age we are all obsessed with sound fidelity and quality but;  Is something lost? A record can be held, it has a label and sleeve and a place in a collection.  It is tangible and treasured – even when it is not being played.  People connect with the object as well as the track. Vinyl is making a comeback.  Old collections are being brought out dusted off and inspected.  Collectors are on the hunt, trying to find relics from a by gone age before they disappear.

Pcorn Queen Investigates brings you a good place to start;  Doublehappinessrecords has over 4000 items available across a range of different formats. 7“, 10” or 12” vinyl and more.  The site is nicely presented (needs to update it’s information pages incidentally) and grades available content for condition before purchase.  Prices and postage seem very reasonable.  Check them out – there’s just enough time to acquire an old favourite to impress a dear one this Christmas!

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“Ahhh!…  Just listen to little Johnnie playing Beethoven’s 5th on the Swanee whistle.  He’s so musical and artistic. I don’t know where he gets it from? I’m tone deaf and his Dad can barely sing for his supper!…”

It’s true, most parents would like their children to enjoy and participate in music in some way.  It’s also true that the earlier that this is developed the better.  The young learn fast.  Rarely our geniuses just born.  It takes practice,  good teaching and encouragement.  Good guidance and tips is available at Piano Lessons World including:   Piano Lessons, Guitar Tips, and many other teaching aids and good advice.  ”Play a bit quieter Johnnie darlin’… I’m trying to write!   Yes.. I’m sure Grandpa would like to hear you play…”

With all the distractions of the modern world maintaining concentration and commitment is not always easy with young children.  Balancing hard work and enjoyment isn’t always easy.  If you can get it right music will remain with them throughout their lives.  This site is nicely presented using a word press layout.  It is easy to navigate around and will provide you with good support and some excellent resources.

Gotta Go… I’ve got a concert to attend!

Da, da,da, dum!…
Da,da,da,darr!..
Te,he,he,Heee!…