A Little Slap Happy Artmusic

The ArtMusic Coffeehouse in East Stroudsburg, PA presented Guitarist Vicki Genfan on Saturday April 21st. The home provided by Don and Jan Julia Slepian greeted a sizable gathering as music fans who frequented their abode arrived alongside music lovers who came to visit for the very first time. Those new to the coffeehouse series were quickly enchanted by the performance space created for those who came to share their talents, the carousel horses hanging from the ceiling, the variety of food placed upon their dining room table, and the delightful conversation those who have enjoyed the musical offerings of the past were eager to engage them in. Although it was (as many writers aspire to begin their compositions with) a dark and stormy night, the welcoming atmosphere brought many rays of sunshine into the hearts of those who entered.

As with all concerts held at The ArtMusic Coffeehouse, it was begun by the evening’s host, Don Slepian, who performed upon his keyboards an eclectic mix of musical styles created instantaneously as he improvised each piece. While each piece were distinct in their properties, their combined effect brought about a peacefulness among those who heard the melodies not only with their ears but with their souls as well. At the completion of his performance, Ms. Genfan took the stage with her guitar as her sound person Tay Hoyle took her place among the amplification equipment. Their dog named, “Lucky” also took her place as she spent the evening equally between listening attentively to the music and taking naps.

Ms. Genfan began her set with an explanation of the techniques she employs while performing her songs. The first is known as “slap-tap” in which the body of the guitar is slapped at various intervals in order to create a percussion effect to accompany the pieces she performs. This “slap-tap” technique can also used upon the neck of the guitar producing a tonal effect resembling that of bells. The second technique Ms. Genfan employs is the frequent manipulation of the tuning tools of the guitar. This allows her to create a more full bodied sound of the songs she performs. Combined, all these techniques provides a sensation of listening to more than one musician.

This the result of these uniquely creative manipulations became prominent as the first note of the first song was played. The beauty and depth of her songs were greatly enhanced by her technique. I, personally, have never been particularly interested in the techniques musicians and other artists utilize to produce what they create. I would rather just enjoy the work and to explore its meaning. However,  Ms. Genfan performance inspired me to learn more about the guitar and the possibilities the instrument can explore to create such sounds. I may never have the opportunity to learn how to play it, but I want to learn more.

The songs themselves consisted of both original compositions and works created by other song writers. As with all talented musicians, Ms. Genfan presented non original material as if they were her own. However, Ms. Genfan took it one dimension further as her uniquely applied techniques transformed the songs into compositions far beyond where the composers could have ever envisioned them to be. Few experiences can truly be considered magical in their nature but the listening of Ms. Genfan’s performance was certainly one of those experiences. You’ll find more photographs taken during the concert at The Artmusic Coffeehouse 2012 Gallery at www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10150717195285421.457027.636000420&type=1&l=f497305bbb.

Vicki Genfan has gained a reputation of being an innovation in the art of performing on guitar. She draws her styles from a variety of influences including those of folk, jazz, pop, soul, and world music. She has performed in many prestigious venues and festivals including The International Montreal Jazz Festival, Germany’s Open Strings Guitar Festival, and Italy’s Soave Guitar Festival. She was also won the distinction of becoming the first woman to win Guitar Player magazine’s Guitar Superstar Competition. You’ll be able to learn more about Vicki Genfan, her future performances, and how to purchase a CD by exploring her website at www.vickigenfan.com.

The ArtMusic Coffeehouse is held in the home of Don Slepian and Jan Julia who reside in the borough of East Stroudsburg, PA as part of the Concerts In Your Home Series. A variety of musical forms are presented including folk, jazz, classical, and electronic music. Although the concerts welcomes all who wish to attend, seating is limited as they take place in a private home. The next concert scheduled to be held at The ArtMusic Coffeehouse will feature Miché Fambro on Friday May 18th beginning at 8pm. Please Explore The ArtMusic Coffeehouse Website at www.ArtMusicCoffeehouse.com or Call 570-476-6307 for more information and to reserve your seats.