Tag Archives: Live performance

Transitions

Transitions.  I think I’ll name my next album, Transitions.

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I’ve been transitioning in my personal growth and as a husband.  Recognizing the mistakes I’ve made in my marriage, but instead of beating myself up for them (as I would have in the past) changing myself for the better instead.

My family is transitioning, as my two young-adult children are beginning to explore the  world and discover their callings.

I’ve transitioned out of my church of nearly 40 years.  A very difficult transition, but one I had been mulling for several years as I’ve sought how to reflect ethical authenticity and compassionate love.

C. Taylor_9719I’m transitioning as a musician.  I’ve learned that I’m seen as a singer/songwriter.  Never knew what to call myself before that, but I like that moniker.

All those transitions, and many others, have influenced my guitar/piano-based songs, with more organic arrangements, simple melody lines, and lyrical depth that help tell my changing story.

I still celebrate being in love: So many of my newer songs reflect my 26 years with my wife Barb.  I tackle songs that deal with loss and grief and how we’re all touched by these emotions – not hiding from them, but embracing and working through them.

I’m reconnecting with some of my instrumental roots, too. Performing songs I wrote nearly 30 years ago that still stand the test of time, along with newer songs that reflect thoughtful, playful vibes.

I continue to live, breathe, and write as a Portland Oregon resident, which gives me a gentle and nurturing platform for exploring transitions.

Here’s to opening new places, new journeys, new hope through transitions.

Chris Taylor

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Jade Lounge this Wednesday Evening

I am so looking forward to my first performance at the Jade Lounge in SE Portland this Wednesday evening as part of the Songbird Showcase open mic, hosted by Cynthia O’Brien.  Cynthia, along with the talented Doug McCleary, percussionist John Hasenjaeger and myself, are putting a fun set together of cover tunes from Bruce Cockburn, Vigilantes of Love, and others.  Plus, we’ve worked up one of my originals, which is always cool.

Things get underway Wednesday, Feb. 26 at 7pm.  Take a mid-week break and join us at the Jade Lounge.

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Let The Music Play

Over the past few months I’ve been involved in some really fun musical moments.  I regularly play at Artichoke Music in SE Portland, on  Thursday evenings.  One week it’s Songwriters Roundup, where all kinds of songwriters offer up one original song and have a very attentive audience.  Every other week it’s Acoustic Village.  This is usually a themed night of music. Recently, we’ve done tributes to Elvis Presley, Pete Seeger and John Denver.  We did an evening of, “Songs of Hope, Protest and Change.”  Great stuff.  Plus, the audience at Artichoke loves to join in making the evenings extra special as a performer and audience member.

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Along with my regular responsibilities with my church’s contemporary worship band, I’ve been part of an acoustic band playing for a chapel service at Westminster Presbyterian Church on Sunday evenings.  Some new friends and musical allies makes for wonderful music and fellowship.

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In the wings, a possible on-going gig at a popular sandwich shop and a return to Whole Foods in NE Portland with my H-Duo partner, Jeff Haagenson.

Fun Evening at Artichoke Music

A wonderful evening at Artichoke Music in SE Portland.  I was honored to share the stage with such a talented group of musicians.  From a banjo playing, singer/songwriter from California, to a husband and wife duo, to two guys from eastern Oregon, the evening was filled with music, stories and the warmth and charm that is Artichoke.  Looking forward to more time with my Artichokian friends.

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In-House Concerts: Booking Now

I love performing at in-house concerts.  I love the intimacy, the interaction, the laid-back, relaxed nature of it all.  It is a perfect receipt for a truly memorable evening for both performer and audience.

“With about 30 dear friends and guests gathered in our living room, Chris gave us two of the most wonderful hours of his music, his humor, and his incredible talent. We savored every minute.”   Kathy Peterson, Coeur d’Alene, ID.

I’m booking house concerts for this fall, and would love to celebrate an evening of music and stories in your home.  You can contact me here.

 Chris getting ready for concert

Live performance June 11

Enjoyed my time at Torta-Landia this past Tuesday evening.  Hope to have a return engagement soon.

I’ll be at Torta-Landia in SE Portland this Tuesday evening beginning at 7pm.  Got some new songs to share along with some of my favorite cover tunes, instrumentals and whatever else might come to mind.  Stop on by.  I’ll have some of my CDs of  “In Those Days,”   for sale for $10 bucks.  Might be a good father’s day gift.  Or this could be a special date night for you, too.  No matter, come on by and sit a spell.

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