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kol isha
Kol Isha
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I've been sitting around the campfire, playing folk music (mediocrely) since I was a kid at summer camp. Most of the music I have always loved (and still play) is from the folk revival era of the 60's. I guess I don't really consider myself a musician (in my real life I am a psychotherapist), but it's just something that has always been a big part of my life and most likely always will be. I like to listen to all types of folk/acoustic music... traditional ballads, celtic, folk-revival, singer-songwriter, fingerstyle guitar, bluegrass, klezmer, etc. When I'm singing, though, it will tend to be in the folk style. (Songwriting is something I am only newly dabbling in.) I stopped playing for many years... too busy with work and raising family... but within the past few years, have started picking up my guitar again, inspired by friends at my local Folk Club and by friends from RMMGA. Hopefully, I'm getting a little better (or at least a little braver... after all, I'm posting this, aren't I?) Music has always been a big part of my life, and I intend to keep having fun.
Why this name?
Kol Isha... it means "A Woman's Voice" (in Hebrew). It has to do with singing... but also about speaking out, social action, letting our voices be heard. (My real name, by the way, is Arlene.)
Do you play live?
I played a few coffeehouses back in my college days. Playing live now generally means attending Song Circles and sharing music with friends, although there is the occasional open mic (when I can get up the nerve) and there was actually recently a paid gig. But I'm just as happy listening, too. I host house concerts in my home, and love meeting all those wonderful and talented musicians.
How, do you think, does the internet (or mp3) change the music industry?
Wow. We live in an amazing time. I've shared music, met new friends, attended planned musical get-togethers, learned so much. I can't even imagine where we would be without the internet.
Would you sign a record contract with a major label?
Is there a major record label out there looking for me? Umm... I think I'll keep my day job.
Your influences?
George Britton, one of the founders of the Philadelphia Folksong Society, introduced me to folk music and taught me to play as a child. What an incredible man! I grew up listening to Pete Seeger, Woody Guthrie, Joan Baez, Joni Mitchell, Judy Collins, Leonard Cohen, Phil Ochs, Bob Dylan, Ian and Sylvia, Janis Ian, Peter Paul and Mary, Richard and Mimi Farina, Buffy Sainte Marie, Simon and Garfunkel... I guess I could go on and on. There are so many incredibly talented musicians who have inspired me.
Favorite spot?
Wherever I am... as long as I'm surrounded by friends.
Equipment used:
I have owned and played the same guitar since I bought it in 1971... a Martin D-18. I love it and it works just fine for me... no major "GAS" attacks yet! As for my recording techniques, one word comes to mind - crude! A laptop with one mono mic input, a cheap $20 mic centered on my desk aimed halfway between my guitar and my mouth, and a free recording program (Audacity) which I have no clue how to use. Point and shoot. So much for being tech-savvy.
Anything else...?
"Resolute, like a boulder in a creek I stand, absorbed in the contemplation of music. If music is truly a vehicle for the soul, my soul has found a place to rest."