Podcasts about arranging

This Christmas might feel a while away, but if there's one way to prepare right now for a more stunning and sustainable tree, it's with alliums.Sarah's love of alliums is well-documented on the podcast, but this week she's recalling some of the most show-stopping varieties with which to decorate this Christmas, and the joys that they'll bring as ‘colour baton-carriers' in spring.In this episode, discover:Which alliums are perfect for bridging the gap between tulips going over and sweet peas emergingSome extravagant, statement-making varieties like the remarkably tall ‘Summer Drummer' or sculptural shapes of ‘Magic'Tips for preparing your alliums to sustainably decorate your tree this ChristmasProducts mentioned:Allium hollandicum 'Purple Sensation'https://www.sarahraven.com/products/allium-hollandicum-purple-sensationAllium cristophiihttps://www.sarahraven.com/products/allium-cristophiiAllium nigrumhttps://www.sarahraven.com/products/allium-nigrumAllium stipitatum 'Summer Drummer'https://www.sarahraven.com/products/allium-stipitatum-summer-drummerAllium schubertii 'Magic'https://www.sarahraven.com/products/allium-schubertii-magicAllium jesdianum 'Purple Rain'https://www.sarahraven.com/products/allium-purple-rainSee our events: https://www.sarahraven.com/courses-eventsGet in touch: info@sarahraven.comShop on the Sarah Raven Website: https://www.sarahraven.com/Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sarahravensgarden/Follow Sarah: https://www.instagram.com/sarahravenperchhill/Order Sarah's latest books: https://www.sarahraven.com/gifts/gardening-books?sort=newest

Biennials – plants which flower in their second year – may often be overlooked by us gardeners, but between their value for money, wonderful scent, and versatility they're among the best plants to sow and grow in any garden.Sarah makes the case for brilliant biennials in this episode of ‘grow, cook, eat, arrange', exploring how she came to appreciate their beauty, and which varieties are best for all aspects of your space.In this episode, discover:How the right mix of biennials can fill the awkward May gap with prolific blooms, all for the price of a seed packetThe best early-flowering biennials, from fragrant wallflowers to the scented sweet rocket, Hesperis matronalisMoth-pollinated varieties with rich fragrance and velvety textures to create a pollinator paradiseProducts mentioned:Digitalis purpurea 'Sutton's Apricot'https://www.sarahraven.com/products/digitalis-purpurea-suttons-apricotDigitalis purpurea f. albiflorahttps://www.sarahraven.com/products/digitalis-purpurea-albaMalope trifida 'Vulcan'https://www.sarahraven.com/products/malope-trifida-vulcanLunaria annuahttps://www.sarahraven.com/products/lunaria-annuaIceland poppy (Papaver nudicaule)https://www.sarahraven.com/products/papaver-nudicaule-champagne-bubbles-mix-f1See our events: https://www.sarahraven.com/courses-eventsGet in touch: info@sarahraven.comShop on the Sarah Raven Website: https://www.sarahraven.com/Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sarahravensgarden/Follow Sarah: https://www.instagram.com/sarahravenperchhill/Order Sarah's latest books: https://www.sarahraven.com/gifts/gardening-books?sort=newest

The Rebbe writes that efforts to bring a qualified scribe to the community are progressing, with details to be coordinated through Reb Binyamin Eliyahu Gorodetzki. He emphasizes that true preparation for Torah is pure awe of Heaven, beyond intellect and nature. https://www.torahrecordings.com/rebbe/igroskodesh/011/009/3535

Every garden space deserves a chance to be transformed into a beautiful space which breathes, rather than constricts, and Pollyanna Wilkinson is a master of such designs.Polly joins Sarah this week to share her no‑nonsense methods for transforming everything from boxy new‑build plots to tired, inherited gardens into layered, soulful spaces. In this episode, discover:How to think like a garden designer, surveying, shaping and structuring spaces before you plantPractical ways to transform new‑build and small gardens, or refresh an existing gardenGuidance on choosing materials and finishes that feel good underfoot, are easy to maintain, and will age beautifully over time.How to use colour and planting layers to create a soulful, wildlife‑friendly garden with interest through the seasonsProducts mentioned:Amelanchier lamarckii:sarahraven.com/products/amelanchier-lamarckiiLavender ‘Munstead': sarahraven.com/products/lavender-munsteadNepeta x faassenii 'Kit Kat':sarahraven.com/products/nepeta-x-faassenii-kit-katSee our events: https://www.sarahraven.com/courses-eventsGet in touch: info@sarahraven.comShop on the Sarah Raven Website: https://www.sarahraven.com/Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sarahravensgarden/Follow Sarah: https://www.instagram.com/sarahravenperchhill/Order Sarah's latest books: https://www.sarahraven.com/gifts/gardening-books?sort=newest

Chelsea is upon us, and among the beauty of all the show gardens lies a very special offering from Arit Anderson and Parkinson's UK.She's planting with purpose in a garden which promises to reflect every Parkinson's journey in a beautifully poignant way, and on ‘grow, cook, eat, arrange', she walks us through the planting ethos and careful design behind one of Main Avenue's great sights for 2026.In this episode, discover:How Arit is reflecting her sister Julie's Parkinson's journey in a meaningful Chelsea Flower Show garden for Parkinson's UKWhat Parkinson's really is beyond the stereotypes, and why it's so often misunderstoodHow thoughtful garden design can respond to real medical challengesPractical ideas for making any garden more accessible, sensory and restorative, whether or not you're living with Parkinson'sThe garden's relocation to the John Radcliffe Hospital, and how it will serve the Parkinson's community long after ChelseaProducts mentioned:Digitalis purpurea ‘Alba' (White Foxglove): sarahraven.com/products/digitalis-purpurea-albaSee our events: https://www.sarahraven.com/courses-eventsGet in touch: info@sarahraven.comShop on the Sarah Raven Website: https://www.sarahraven.com/Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sarahravensgarden/Follow Sarah: https://www.instagram.com/sarahravenperchhill/Order Sarah's latest books: https://www.sarahraven.com/gifts/gardening-books?sort=newest

Are you doing what actually matters or sticking your head in the sand and thinking you can focus on "your stuff" even as everything around you is crumbling down? More in this week's podcast episode.Unplugged with AvivGrab a copy of my books, Capitalizing Your Technology and  The Tech Executive Operating System.Subscribe to the best newsletter for tech executives.For any questions or comments, reach out to me directly: aviv@avivbenyosef.com

A new MP3 sermon from Grace Audio Treasures is now available on SermonAudio with the following details: Title: If we had the arranging of our own lives, and the disposing of all events Subtitle: Puritan Devotional Speaker: C. H. Spurgeon Broadcaster: Grace Audio Treasures Event: Devotional Date: 5/18/2026 Bible: Job 1:21; Romans 8:28 Length: 4 min.

We highly suggest that you READ the TEXT at the link below, as you listen to the audio above. https://gracegems.org/2026/ Feel free to FORWARD this gem to others!

https://www.skool.com/circle-of-interval-magicians/about In this episode, Frank explores why adding more complex chords doesn't always improve your music. Instead of focusing on chord labels, he invites you to think in terms of musical energy—shaped by elements like density, register, rhythm, and orchestration. By aligning harmony with the energy a moment truly needs, your compositions can feel more intentional, clear, and expressive.

  Crisis Negotiator Role Player Mike Wilkerson welcomes 24 Production Designer Joseph Hodges to discuss the behind the scenes details of one of the greatest "real-time" crime dramas to talk about what made the program so great. With a rotating series of Law Enforcement representatives bringing their perspective and knowledge to share more about what you see on-screen - there literally WAS and IS nothing like this program that was now released 25 years ago. Ready to understand the value, power and LEGEND of "24" on Fox, starring Kiefer Sutherland? Let's Get To it! There are few things that have gone undone on The 2GuysTalking Podcast Network. Somehow finding the reason and time to revisit the groundbreaking television show 24's first series of seasons before the original 24 Podcast launched (in the early 00's) has always been a bucket list item. The MISSION to initiate and get them done arrived in the form of a video from The Real Life Fake Wizard, discussing Hollywood's KILLING of Our Heroes, and then a clarion call to realize that if one cannot watch and be entertained, then one must MAKE THEIR OWN. We. Are. Doing. It. We are going back to Season 1, Hour 1, and looking at this groundbreaking program with not only the same great features, delivery mechanisms and FUN - but also including the unmatched perspective from 24's OWN PRODUCTION DESIGNER, Joseph Hodges. Joseph adds untold value to a program that burned a path in organized fandom 20 years ago and now returns to begin BUILDING THINGS WE WANT TO WATCH/TAKE IN as entertainment. If you're done with watching rushed storytelling, agenda-stuffed garbage and are tired of Hollywood killing YOUR heroes - then it's time to jump aboard the 24Podcast.Com effort and revel in real character developed, fevered, deliberate pace and grand storytelling - hour by hour as we navigate the first of Jack Bauer's Worst Days. This - is the 24 Podcast - our complete, detailed and always-educational review of Season 1, Hour 1 - 12am-1am on the Day of the California Presidential Primary...   The ultimate success for every podcaster – is FEEDBACK! Be sure to take just a few minutes to tell the hosts of this podcast what YOU think over at Apple Podcasts! It takes only a few minutes but helps the hosts of this program pave the way to future greatness! Not an Apple Podcasts user? No problem! Be sure to check out any of the other many growing podcast directories online to find this and many other podcasts via The Podcaster Matrix!       The 24 Podcast Connection Links:   Connect with The Hosts (and View Direct Contact information Below!) Subscribe to This Podcast & Listen Now!        Subscribe, Like, and Share Everywhere! Help The 24 Podcast Grow!   The Detailed & Always Educational Shownotes for this Episode of The 24 Podcast:   Enjoy This Series Yourselves (and Foster the Podcast)! It's easy to have the  same great experience from this series! Hit the links below and get your copy of the the series' music and media to follow along!   Two Great Ways to Listen/Watch! We all know that our project started as an AUDIO experience. That's same killer program is still here but now there are two great ways to take in the 24 Podcast! To Listen Now: Hit the play button in the player on this page or hit of the options to Subscribe via your favorite Podcast Directory to instantly get these episodes when they release! To Watch Now: Visit this program on YouTube, or hit the window located below to see the hosts, guests and light bulb moments that make this program special! https://youtu.be/WRZjksdfpjE?si=JOR1m0BT6_PFhHu9 Timestamps for this Episode of The Podcast Gauntlet: 00:00 Responsibilities of a production designer 10:41 Uncovering mole and threats within CTU 12:19 Jack confronts Mason about source 19:07 Hiring writers for storytelling and character building 22:45 Discussing DVD vs. streaming quality and features 31:13 Giving writers a tour of new set 33:45 Attention spans and content duration 38:09 TV show dynamics and director's role 45:20 Village life and community childcare 48:58 Explaining Screen Time Labs for kids' phones 57:55 Sean's impactful music and its origins 59:14 Jack investigates mole at CTU while discussing soundtracks 01:07:11 Importance of crafting compelling stories 01:10:20 Arranging logistics for filming locations 01:16:44 Discussing the impact of the soundtrack 01:20:43 Challenges with filming aerial surveillance scenes 01:27:15 Kiefer Sutherland's show-don't-tell acting技巧 01:35:00 Designing and presenting the LA Police Station concept 01:42:33 Gaming's enduring potential and originality 01:46:09 Early paintball games with the Shield cast 01:50:23 Engaging with fans through calls and video     The Parts that Make the 24Podcast.Com Effort "GO!" -- The USCCA - Education, Peace of Mind and More: The USCCA is a centerpiece of education for 2GuysTalkingGuns, in that Mike Wilkerson is a USCCA-Certified Firearms Instructor. Be sure to check out the USCCA to understand the benefits of incident insurance that goes far deeper than simply events involving a firearm. Protect your family by educating yourselves about the USCCA. 2GuysTalking is an Official Partner Organization of The USCCA. https://www.usconcealedcarry.com/ -- The Editor Corps - Make Your Podcast Soar: There's only one question to ask: Why are YOU still editing your podcast? Reclaim the time you spend on editing (easily at least twice the time you spend on capturing the program) to make more great content by enlisting "The Editor Corps" who will "Make Your Podcast Soar!" http://EditorCorps.Com -- The Voice Farm: Fred Wilkerson, Mike's Father that died in the first few days of 2018, always dreamed of a place that those interested in Voiceover could go to learn more about the industry and experience - without all the BS that goes with it. We build it four and a half years go and it continues to provide new voiceover artists and businesses looking for voiceover talent a place to go and secure great voiceover artists. http://VoiceFarmers.Com   Foster the Goals and Connect with The 24Podcast.Com Effort: It's EASY to do it all! Whether you've just recently found us, or want to get the T-shirts that foster our educational goals you can do it all here! Send your items to us at: 2GuysTalking 1200 Lake Saint Louis Boulevard  Lake Saint Louis, MO 63367 Connect with us via our quick web form or socials listed above... Wear the 24Podcast Gear: It's the EASIEST way to showcase your zeal, share it with others without saying a word and you're helping the podcasters - all at the same time! Questions Answered Inside this Episode of The Podcast Gauntlet: How did Joseph Hodges describe the unique responsibilities and influence of a production designer on a show like 24? What aspects of the show's look do you think most reflect his work? (01:09–02:10) Joseph Hodges shared anecdotes about getting the job and the process of redesigning CTU. What insights did he provide about creative flexibility and collaboration on 24? (02:59–05:31) The discussion includes strong opinions about changes in modern entertainment storytelling. Do you agree with Joseph Hodges and Mike Wilkerson that contemporary shows prioritize agendas over story? Why or why not? (17:21–19:02) Both speakers emphasize the importance of attention span in consuming media. How does 24's structure and visual style challenge viewers compared to today's “second screen” culture? (34:00–35:30) The podcast explores the impact of 9/11 on the release and editing of 24's pilot. In what ways did these real-world events shape audience perception and the show's direction? (01:01:41–01:05:05) Joseph Hodges touched on the fast character building in 24, highlighting characters like David Palmer and Nina Myers. What storytelling techniques allowed 24 to introduce complex characters quickly? (01:26:05–01:06:17) Technological limitations and props (like the Cisco Systems video conferencing) are discussed humorously. How did technology, real and imagined, shape the world and plot devices in season one? (01:17:26–01:20:01) Mike Wilkerson and Joseph Hodges reflect on parenthood and the depiction of Kim Bauer's storyline. How does the show's portrayal of teenage rebellion and danger land differently for audiences now, especially parents? (41:54–46:49) The discussion references the rapid shifts in episode release formats—from weekly airing to entire-season dumps on platforms like Netflix. How does this change the fan experience and watercooler culture evidenced in early 24 fandom? (01:39:09–01:41:09) Both speakers give the pilot a perfect rating, calling it a “gateway drug” to great storytelling. What specific elements from this first episode do you think hooked viewers and led to the show's cultural impact? (01:49:30–01:52:06) Links from Inside this Episode of The 24 Podcast: -- Looking to score one of the (XL -there are only 20 available!) Official 24 Fan Club T-Shirts from (GASP!) 20+ years ago? Contact us today and tell us you're interested! -- Take time to learn more about what LAUNCHED this new effort via the Content Clarion Call of The Real Life Fake Wizard   Sponsors of This Episode of The 24 Podcast: Looking to establish some of the most pound-for-pound online message power when it comes to educational content and great storytelling? Connect with The 2GuysTalking Podcast Network and take advantage of Perpetual Advertising NOW! Tell Us What You Think of This Episode of The 24 Podcast: Few things are more valuable than feedback. We talk about a LOT of hot-topic subjects inside The Podcast Gauntlet and now - it's time for YO

  Crisis Negotiator Role Player Mike Wilkerson welcomes 24 Production Designer Joseph Hodges to discuss the behind the scenes details of one of the greatest "real-time" crime dramas to talk about what made the program so great. With a rotating series of Law Enforcement representatives bringing their perspective and knowledge to share more about what you see on-screen - there literally WAS and IS nothing like this program that was now released 25 years ago. Ready to understand the value, power and LEGEND of "24" on Fox, starring Kiefer Sutherland? Let's Get To it! There are few things that have gone undone on The 2GuysTalking Podcast Network. Somehow finding the reason and time to revisit the groundbreaking television show 24's first series of seasons before the original 24 Podcast launched (in the early 00's) has always been a bucket list item. The MISSION to initiate and get them done arrived in the form of a video from The Real Life Fake Wizard, discussing Hollywood's KILLING of Our Heroes, and then a clarion call to realize that if one cannot watch and be entertained, then one must MAKE THEIR OWN. We. Are. Doing. It. We are going back to Season 1, Hour 1, and looking at this groundbreaking program with not only the same great features, delivery mechanisms and FUN - but also including the unmatched perspective from 24's OWN PRODUCTION DESIGNER, Joseph Hodges. Joseph adds untold value to a program that burned a path in organized fandom 20 years ago and now returns to begin BUILDING THINGS WE WANT TO WATCH/TAKE IN as entertainment. If you're done with watching rushed storytelling, agenda-stuffed garbage and are tired of Hollywood killing YOUR heroes - then it's time to jump aboard the 24Podcast.Com effort and revel in real character developed, fevered, deliberate pace and grand storytelling - hour by hour as we navigate the first of Jack Bauer's Worst Days. This - is the 24 Podcast - our complete, detailed and always-educational review of Season 1, Hour 1 - 12am-1am on the Day of the California Presidential Primary...   The ultimate success for every podcaster – is FEEDBACK! Be sure to take just a few minutes to tell the hosts of this podcast what YOU think over at Apple Podcasts! It takes only a few minutes but helps the hosts of this program pave the way to future greatness! Not an Apple Podcasts user? No problem! Be sure to check out any of the other many growing podcast directories online to find this and many other podcasts via The Podcaster Matrix!       The 24 Podcast Connection Links:   Connect with The Hosts (and View Direct Contact information Below!) Subscribe to This Podcast & Listen Now!        Subscribe, Like, and Share Everywhere! Help The 24 Podcast Grow!   The Detailed & Always Educational Shownotes for this Episode of The 24 Podcast:   Enjoy This Series Yourselves (and Foster the Podcast)! It's easy to have the  same great experience from this series! Hit the links below and get your copy of the the series' music and media to follow along!   Two Great Ways to Listen/Watch! We all know that our project started as an AUDIO experience. That's same killer program is still here but now there are two great ways to take in the 24 Podcast! To Listen Now: Hit the play button in the player on this page or hit of the options to Subscribe via your favorite Podcast Directory to instantly get these episodes when they release! To Watch Now: Visit this program on YouTube, or hit the window located below to see the hosts, guests and light bulb moments that make this program special! https://youtu.be/WRZjksdfpjE?si=JOR1m0BT6_PFhHu9 Timestamps for this Episode of The Podcast Gauntlet: 00:00 Responsibilities of a production designer 10:41 Uncovering mole and threats within CTU 12:19 Jack confronts Mason about source 19:07 Hiring writers for storytelling and character building 22:45 Discussing DVD vs. streaming quality and features 31:13 Giving writers a tour of new set 33:45 Attention spans and content duration 38:09 TV show dynamics and director's role 45:20 Village life and community childcare 48:58 Explaining Screen Time Labs for kids' phones 57:55 Sean's impactful music and its origins 59:14 Jack investigates mole at CTU while discussing soundtracks 01:07:11 Importance of crafting compelling stories 01:10:20 Arranging logistics for filming locations 01:16:44 Discussing the impact of the soundtrack 01:20:43 Challenges with filming aerial surveillance scenes 01:27:15 Kiefer Sutherland's show-don't-tell acting技巧 01:35:00 Designing and presenting the LA Police Station concept 01:42:33 Gaming's enduring potential and originality 01:46:09 Early paintball games with the Shield cast 01:50:23 Engaging with fans through calls and video     The Parts that Make the 24Podcast.Com Effort "GO!" -- The USCCA - Education, Peace of Mind and More: The USCCA is a centerpiece of education for 2GuysTalkingGuns, in that Mike Wilkerson is a USCCA-Certified Firearms Instructor. Be sure to check out the USCCA to understand the benefits of incident insurance that goes far deeper than simply events involving a firearm. Protect your family by educating yourselves about the USCCA. 2GuysTalking is an Official Partner Organization of The USCCA. https://www.usconcealedcarry.com/ -- The Editor Corps - Make Your Podcast Soar: There's only one question to ask: Why are YOU still editing your podcast? Reclaim the time you spend on editing (easily at least twice the time you spend on capturing the program) to make more great content by enlisting "The Editor Corps" who will "Make Your Podcast Soar!" http://EditorCorps.Com -- The Voice Farm: Fred Wilkerson, Mike's Father that died in the first few days of 2018, always dreamed of a place that those interested in Voiceover could go to learn more about the industry and experience - without all the BS that goes with it. We build it four and a half years go and it continues to provide new voiceover artists and businesses looking for voiceover talent a place to go and secure great voiceover artists. http://VoiceFarmers.Com   Foster the Goals and Connect with The 24Podcast.Com Effort: It's EASY to do it all! Whether you've just recently found us, or want to get the T-shirts that foster our educational goals you can do it all here! Send your items to us at: 2GuysTalking 1200 Lake Saint Louis Boulevard  Lake Saint Louis, MO 63367 Connect with us via our quick web form or socials listed above... Wear the 24Podcast Gear: It's the EASIEST way to showcase your zeal, share it with others without saying a word and you're helping the podcasters - all at the same time! Questions Answered Inside this Episode of The Podcast Gauntlet: How did Joseph Hodges describe the unique responsibilities and influence of a production designer on a show like 24? What aspects of the show's look do you think most reflect his work? (01:09–02:10) Joseph Hodges shared anecdotes about getting the job and the process of redesigning CTU. What insights did he provide about creative flexibility and collaboration on 24? (02:59–05:31) The discussion includes strong opinions about changes in modern entertainment storytelling. Do you agree with Joseph Hodges and Mike Wilkerson that contemporary shows prioritize agendas over story? Why or why not? (17:21–19:02) Both speakers emphasize the importance of attention span in consuming media. How does 24's structure and visual style challenge viewers compared to today's “second screen” culture? (34:00–35:30) The podcast explores the impact of 9/11 on the release and editing of 24's pilot. In what ways did these real-world events shape audience perception and the show's direction? (01:01:41–01:05:05) Joseph Hodges touched on the fast character building in 24, highlighting characters like David Palmer and Nina Myers. What storytelling techniques allowed 24 to introduce complex characters quickly? (01:26:05–01:06:17) Technological limitations and props (like the Cisco Systems video conferencing) are discussed humorously. How did technology, real and imagined, shape the world and plot devices in season one? (01:17:26–01:20:01) Mike Wilkerson and Joseph Hodges reflect on parenthood and the depiction of Kim Bauer's storyline. How does the show's portrayal of teenage rebellion and danger land differently for audiences now, especially parents? (41:54–46:49) The discussion references the rapid shifts in episode release formats—from weekly airing to entire-season dumps on platforms like Netflix. How does this change the fan experience and watercooler culture evidenced in early 24 fandom? (01:39:09–01:41:09) Both speakers give the pilot a perfect rating, calling it a “gateway drug” to great storytelling. What specific elements from this first episode do you think hooked viewers and led to the show's cultural impact? (01:49:30–01:52:06) Links from Inside this Episode of The 24 Podcast: -- Looking to score one of the (XL -there are only 20 available!) Official 24 Fan Club T-Shirts from (GASP!) 20+ years ago? Contact us today and tell us you're interested! -- Take time to learn more about what LAUNCHED this new effort via the Content Clarion Call of The Real Life Fake Wizard   Sponsors of This Episode of The 24 Podcast: Looking to establish some of the most pound-for-pound online message power when it comes to educational content and great storytelling? Connect with The 2GuysTalking Podcast Network and take advantage of Perpetual Advertising NOW! Tell Us What You Think of This Episode of The 24 Podcast: Few things are more valuable than feedback. We talk about a LOT of hot-topic subjects inside The Podcast Gauntlet and now - it's time for YO

In this episode of ‘grow, cook, eat, arrange', Sarah Raven welcomes renowned garden designer Tom Stuart-Smith to uncover his visionary new garden for Tate Britain and how he's reimagining it for the RHS Chelsea Flower Show. They explore his bold, foliage-rich planting, ingenious water features, and a remarkable new memorial garden at Badminton that promises to be one of the RHS's most ambitious show gardens yet.In this episode, discover:How Tom Stuart-Smith is transforming a neglected, concrete-dominated acre at Tate Britain into a biodiverse, exotic gardenThe creative and practical challenge of turning that large-scale design into a Chelsea Flower Show garden where every element is destined to be reused at TateThe bold, foliage-led planting palette Tom has chosen – from cycads and Persian lilac to euphorbias, aspidistras and shade-loving exoticsHow water, sculpture and planting come together, including a finely engineered water feature and a Barbara Hepworth sculpture from a national collectionEpisode Cover Photo Credit: Eva Nemeth.See our events: https://www.sarahraven.com/courses-eventsGet in touch: info@sarahraven.comShop on the Sarah Raven Website: https://www.sarahraven.com/Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sarahravensgarden/Follow Sarah: https://www.instagram.com/sarahravenperchhill/Order Sarah's latest books: https://www.sarahraven.com/gifts/gardening-books?sort=newest

Is this one of the best or worst method or repertoire books for learning to play acoustic fingerstyle blues guitar? You can learn to play music using a variety of resources including teachers, online resources, and books. Understanding DADGAD for Fingerstyle Guitar is a method book for… learning to play fingerstyle guitar using the wonderous alternate tuning known as DADGAD tuning.  This tuning is often associated with Celtic fingerstyle (Pierre Bensusan and Tony McManus), the British folk revival of the 1960s (Davy Graham), and modern fingerstyle (Andy McKee), but it truly excels in any genre.   So, if you have some fingerstyle or classical guitar experience and you have an interest in beginning to utilize DADGAD tuning, this book will provide a comprehensive introduction.  Be aware, it is appropriate for intermediate to advanced fingerstyle guitarists.  Do not try to work through this book if you are just starting out with acoustic fingerstyle guitar – you really need to have the basics down before starting in this book. Understanding DADGAD covers a lot of ground with regards to this alternate tuning, starting out by showing you simple chords, the basics of fretboard navigation, a few easier arrangements, and some accessible ideas for improvisation.  The book provides useful insights into how to leverage your knowledge of standard tuning to facilitate your learning of DADGAD – your 3rd, 4th and 5th strings are tuned the same as in standard tuning, while your 1st, 2nd, and 6th strings are tuned exactly one whole step down.  The book also does a great job introducing you to many of DADGAD's unique characteristics – the tuning is especially well-suited to the harp-like cross-string technique, the use of drones, and the use of octaves paired with hammer-ons, pull-offs, and slides. Where the book falls a little flat is that it doesn't effectively show you how to arrange a tune in DADGAD tuning.  Upon completion of the book, you may have a few cool DADGAD tunes that you can play, but you may not know how to apply your newly acquired familiarity with the tuning to other music.  Personally, I am always arranging tunes for fingerstyle guitar, and while some tunes work great in standard tuning or drop-D, others seem to shine in DADGAD.  I recently arranged the Guns ‘N Roses hit, “Sweet Child of Mine,” to beef up my set-list for bars and breweries, and I started out arranging the tune in standard tuning.  It wasn't sitting right in the original key, so I transposed it a couple times, but still didn't like the results.  Finally, I arranged it in DADGAD and voila, the result was lush, musically satisfying, and playable/performable.  Here's a sample of that arrangement. My recommendation is that all fingerstyle players learn to arrange tunes in standard tuning, drop-D, and DADGAD.  While Understanding DADGAD doesn't cover this topic, it does give you lots of tools (intervals, cross-string technique, etc.) to use in any future DADGAD arranging.  In my eBook, Arranging for Fingerstyle Guitar, I show you how to arrange Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star in multiple keys in standard and alternate tunings (including DADGAD).  You can also check out my video/podcast series: Arranging Melodies for Fingerstyle Guitar, in which I show you how to arrange examples from the Essential Elements Guitar Method.  I'll put a link to these videos in the corner and in the show description. A nice supplement to Understanding DADGAD would be another book from our author: A DADGAD Christmas, again, also by Doug Young.  This other book contains great DADGAD arrangements of Christmas carols that you can both play and analyze to gain arranging insights. Understanding DADGAD provides both treble clef and tablature for each arrangement.  Unfortunately, no fingerings are provided in the music.  For each example, I notated my own fingering in the music, after which I was able to play much more smoothly, accurately, and confidently.  The skill of choosing sensible fingering is important, and you will need to look elsewhere to further develop this skill. Recordings are available online through Mel Bay's website.  These will be very helpful to many readers. © 2008 by Mel Bay My own books: Arranging for Fingerstyle Guitar: go to http://joemcmurray.com/checkout/ to purchase a pdf of my eBook.  Learning to arrange melodies will also help your fingerstyle songwriting and your understanding of the inner workings of fingerstyle guitar. Fingerstyle Blues Guitar: An In-Depth Study of the 12-Bar Blues in E Major – Books 1 and 2 are available in paperback or as an eBook through Amazon [https://a.co/d/g7Udsso (Book 1) and https://a.co/d/aDbh4H0 (Book 2)].  The first priority of these books is to quickly get you playing a solo instrumental 12-bar blues, and then to build on it until you can freely improvise or “jam.” You should be up and running by the end of the third chapter, and each following chapter will add icing on the cake.  There is an focus on using a monotonic bass to maximize melodic freedom, and there is an emphasis on creating lyrical melodies using actual lyrics. My upcoming book, Arranging for Fingerstyle Ukulele, will be published by Mel Bay in 2026. My music is available on all streaming platforms at https://open.spotify.com/artist/5dcokTG6C598OhTslHH5uo?si=hrQb7FViSZewDRSgECw9Ew: Pins on the Map: my third fingerstyle guitar album was released on January 19, 2024. Watch the first single, “Open Road,” on YouTube here: https://youtu.be/uPBh8sZQsT4?si=EM_wAwnHFqU1VC9C. Riding the Wave and Acoustic Oasis: my first two fingerstyle guitar albums.

Watch the full video episode on YouTube! https://youtu.be/_T97COq6blMThroughout Mary Berry's life, the garden has played a charming role, from her wartime childhood plot to a brand-new garden started in her 80s - it's an essential ingredient in her life.This week on ‘grow, cook, eat, arrange' Mary kindly joins us to explore a lifetime of gardening, how it's inspired her new book, and how gardening can bring joy, structure and wellbeing at every stage of life.In this episode, discover:How Mary's lifelong love of gardening began in her childhood and continues to shape her daily lifePractical, gentle tips for spring gardening and successional plantingHow Mary approaches designing and maintaining a garden later in life, using evergreens, hedges and topiary for structureEveryday good habits in the garden, such as watering, deadheading, and keeping lawns neatOrder Mary's Book:https://www.amazon.co.uk/My-Gardening-Life-Mary-Berry/dp/0241726654Products mentioned: Narcissus ‘Rijnveld's Early Sensation': sarahraven.com/products/narcissus-rijnvelds-early-sensationNarcissus ‘Silver Chimes': sarahraven.com/products/narcissus-silver-chimesNarcissus ‘February Gold': sarahraven.com/products/narcissus-february-goldPhlox drummondii ‘Blushing Bride': sarahraven.com/products/phlox-drummondii-blushing-brideSee our events: https://www.sarahraven.com/courses-eventsGet in touch: info@sarahraven.comShop on the Sarah Raven Website: https://www.sarahraven.com/Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sarahravensgarden/Follow Sarah: https://www.instagram.com/sarahravenperchhill/Order Sarah's latest books: https://www.sarahraven.com/gifts/gardening-books?sort=newest

Welcome back to my mini-series on how to become a better acoustic fingerstyle guitarist through the use of general guitar method books. I'll show you how to arrange melodies from: • Essential Elements for Guitar: Comprehensive Guitar Method, and • Hal Leonard's Guitar Method Book 1 In today's podcast, I'll walk you through the process of arranging Example 29 from the Essential Elements book.

Sissinghurst is one of the country's crowning gems of National Trust gardens, and a place in which Adam was brought up, around the beauty curated by his grandparents.This week on ‘grow, cook, eat, arrange', we're delving into the centuries of legacy which led to a spot perfect for Vita Sackville-West and Harold Nicolson to create the poetic space we know and adore today, and how their vision is being revived today for generations to come.In this episode, discover:The remarkable story of how Vita Sackville-West turned a ruined Elizabethan courtyard house into one of the world's most celebrated gardensHow Sissinghurst evolved through centuries – from Renaissance palace to poetic family home and garden, and all in betweenThe creative partnership between Vita and Harold NicolsonWhat makes the white garden so magical, from its glowing night-time palette to its scented, moth-pollinated plantsHow the newly reimagined Delos garden brings a Greek hillside to Kent, blending historical inspiration with modern designProducts mentioned:Ammi majus: sarahraven.com/products/ammi-majusAmmi visnaga: sarahraven.com/products/ammi-visnagaAgrostemma githago 'Milas Snow Queen':sarahraven.com/products/agrostemma-githago-milas-snow-queenSee our events: https://www.sarahraven.com/courses-eventsGet in touch: info@sarahraven.comShop on the Sarah Raven Website: https://www.sarahraven.com/Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sarahravensgarden/Follow Sarah: https://www.instagram.com/sarahravenperchhill/Order Sarah's latest books: https://www.sarahraven.com/gifts/gardening-books?sort=newest

The magic of growing your own food is hard to overstate, and while some lament the labour necessary, it takes far less time and space than many imagine.This week's ‘grow, cook, eat, arrange' once again features the remarkable Huw Richards, fresh from the release of ‘How to Grow Food' - his new book which dives into the detail of how anyone can grow a kitchen garden in real spaces, with a planting schedule that fits around busy lives.In this episode, discover:How Huw plans and plants to grow enough veg for a family of four on a half allotment in just a few hours a weekSimple permaculture-inspired tricks for better germinationWhat causes common problems like courgette fruits rotting and dropping off, and how you can fix themHow to choose between longer crops and cut-and-come-again with limited spaceHuw's must-sow crops for April, including squash, runner beans, cucumbers, and courgettesEpisode Cover Photo Credit: Dorling Kindersley: Jason IngramProducts mentioned:Runner Bean 'Black Knight'https://www.sarahraven.com/products/runner-bean-black-knightRunner Bean 'White Lady'https://www.sarahraven.com/products/runner-bean-white-ladyNasturtium 'Tip Top Mix' (Tropaeolum majus)https://www.sarahraven.com/products/nasturtium-tip-top-mixNasturtium 'Ladybird Rose' (Tropaeolum minus)https://www.sarahraven.com/products/nasturtium-ladybird-roseBorago officinalis (Borage)https://www.sarahraven.com/products/borago-officinalisSee our events: https://www.sarahraven.com/courses-eventsGet in touch: info@sarahraven.comShop on the Sarah Raven Website: https://www.sarahraven.com/Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sarahravensgarden/Follow Sarah: https://www.instagram.com/sarahravenperchhill/Order Sarah's latest books: https://www.sarahraven.com/gifts/gardening-books?sort=newest

Welcome to my mini-series on how to become a better acoustic fingerstyle guitarist through the use of general guitar method books. I'll show you how to arrange melodies from: • Essential Elements for Guitar: Comprehensive Guitar Method, and • Hal Leonard's Guitar Method Book 1 In today's podcast, I'll walk you through the process of arranging Example 10 from the Essential Elements book.

The sunnier months in April present a fresh opportunity for gardeners to sow some of the fastest-germinating seedlings, bringing a productive garden closer than you might think.We return to Josie Lewis this week for an episode all about what she's sowing in mid-April, how to prick out and pot on seedlings, and the simple tricks they use to keep plants growing hard and healthy at this most promising time of year.In this episode, discover:How to prick out seedlings confidently, and when to do it for promoting strong growthPractical ways to get more from your dahlias, such as turning pinched tips into new plants with simple cuttingsWhy mid‑April is the ideal time to sow cosmos and zinnias, and how to avoid the common mistake of starting them too earlyStep‑by‑step tips for taking cuttings of pelargoniums, salvias and other favouritesTwo slightly different but complementary approaches to hardening off plants, and how to choose a method that works for your own gardenSee our events: https://www.sarahraven.com/courses-eventsGet in touch: info@sarahraven.comShop on the Sarah Raven Website: https://www.sarahraven.com/Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sarahravensgarden/Follow Sarah: https://www.instagram.com/sarahravenperchhill/Order Sarah's latest books: https://www.sarahraven.com/gifts/gardening-books?sort=newest

On this episode of The Bandwich Tapes, I sit down with guitarist and composer Bob Lanzetti, best known as one of the founding members of Snarky Puppy. I've admired Bob's playing for a long time, so getting the chance to talk with him felt especially meaningful. We begin with something many musicians quietly carry with them: the fear of hand issues and how that concern evolves over the course of a career. Bob reflects honestly on how he thinks about it now compared to earlier years.From there, we rewind to the beginning—growing up around his dad's guitar, discovering The Beatles, and the simple invitation that changed everything: “Learn this song and you can sit in with my band.” That moment set Bob firmly on the path toward becoming a guitarist. He traces his journey through early mentors, jazz studies, and eventually to the University of North Texas, where he found a musical community that would change his life—and where Snarky Puppy first came together.We spend time talking about the musical ecosystem around North Texas as well, especially the gospel and R&B scenes that shaped Bob's ear in ways the classroom couldn't. Bob shares how Snarky Puppy actually learns and rehearses music—often through oral tradition, demos, and Logic sessions—and how the band's three-guitar setup works without stepping on each other's sonic space. Along the way, he reflects on something younger musicians often overlook: the importance of restraint, listening, and self-balancing within a band.One of my favorite parts of the conversation centers on Bob's Nosferatu project, where he composed and performed an original score for the classic silent film during the COVID years. That project opened the door to exploring 20th-century classical textures, string writing, layered guitars, and production techniques. We wrap up by talking about the wide range of influences that shape Bob's music—from Charlie Christian and Jim Hall to Sonic Youth and Derek Bailey—and what's ahead in 2026, including GroundUP Festival, touring with Snarky Puppy alongside the Metropole Orchestra, his trio work, and the growing role of producing in his creative life.Key TakeawaysMusicians confront physical concerns over time — long careers require resilience and perspective.Early invitations can shape a life path — a simple opportunity to sit in with a band set Bob on the guitar journey.Community matters — the University of North Texas and the surrounding Dallas scene were foundational for Snarky Puppy.Listening and restraint define great band playing — especially in complex ensemble settings like a three-guitar lineup.Musical learning often happens by ear — oral tradition and demos play a huge role in how bands develop material.Creative side projects expand the palette — Bob's Nosferatu score opened the door to new textures and production ideas.Producing can become another creative outlet — shaping the sound of recordings scratches the same itch as performing.Music from the EpisodeB - Bob LanzettiAnonymous - Bob LanzettiThe Seven Deadly Sins (from Nosferatu) - Bob LanzettiJenny is a Donkey - Bob LanzettiAbout the PodcastThe Bandwich Tapes is a podcast hosted by Brad Williams, featuring conversations with musicians, composers, producers, and creative thinkers about their musical journeys. Each episode explores the influences, decisions, and experiences that shape a life in music—one conversation at a time.Connect with the ShowEmail: contact@thebandwichtapes.com

There's something uniquely calming about a garden washed in cool pastels – soft tones that feel like frosty mornings and freshly laundered linen. Moving us onto the 4th and final palette in Sarah's colour system, we explore the washed palette in this episode of ‘grow, cook, eat, arrange'. She takes you through the colour combinations, productive plant families, and tips for crafting a soothing, contemplative feeling in your garden.In this episode, discover:How to use Sarah's washed colour palette of cool pastels to create a calm, clean and harmonious gardenWhich plant families and specific varieties reliably deliver this palette from late winter to autumnHow to plan colour through the year in two‑month blocks, ensuring there's always something in flower without breaking the paletteSimple design techniques to avoid jarring colour clashesWhy sticking to a coherent palette can make your garden feel both deeply restful and quietly boldProducts mentioned:Narcissus ‘Polar Hunter': sarahraven.com/products/narcissus-polar-hunterNarcissus ‘Avalanche': sarahraven.com/products/narcissus-avalancheNarcissus ‘Thalia': sarahraven.com/products/narcissus-thaliaNarcissus ‘Actaea': sarahraven.com/products/narcissus-actaeaTulip ‘White Triumphator': sarahraven.com/products/tulip-white-triumphatorTulip ‘Purissima': sarahraven.com/products/tulip-purissimaFritillaria acmopetala (likely "Green Eyes"): sarahraven.com/products/fritillaria-acmopetalaSweet Pea ‘Nimbus': sarahraven.com/products/sweet-pea-nimbusNicotiana sylvestris: sarahraven.com/products/nicotiana-sylvestrisNicotiana alata ‘Grandiflora': sarahraven.com/products/nicotiana-alata-grandifloraFollow Sarah: https://www.instagram.com/sarahravenperchhill/See our events: https://www.sarahraven.com/courses-eventsGet in touch: info@sarahraven.comShop on the Sarah Raven Website: https://www.sarahraven.com/Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sarahravensgarden/Follow Sarah: https://www.instagram.com/sarahravenperchhill/Order Sarah's latest books: https://www.sarahraven.com/gifts/gardening-books?sort=newest

Fantasy Now! - 12" LP (SPIRAL RECORDS 2 YEAR ANNIVERSARY VERSION)- https://shadowshow-detroit.bandcamp.com The baby at the bar, a World Tour mug, and Brian Eno's webinar. Ava East (Shadow Show, Mod Lang) “HAILING FROM DETROIT, SHADOW SHOW IS A NEW SOUND IN LIGHT OF A NEW ERA… COMPRISED OF GUITARIST AVA EAST, BASSIST KATE DERRINGER, AND DRUMMER KERRIGAN PEARCE, SHADOW SHOW DEBUTED IN 2018. SHADOW SHOW IS AN UNCOMPROMISING POWER TRIO THAT COMBINES ELEMENTS OF 60'S GARAGE-PSYCHEDELIA INTO A 21ST CENTURY MODERN POP-ART INCARNATION. SLEEK AND SPELLBINDING, THE MUSIC SWEEPS YOU UP INTO FRENETIC GROOVES AND DAZZLING HARMONIES. THEIR MUSIC PUSHES THE BOUNDARIES OF WHAT CAN BE, YET REMAINS DEEPLY ROOTED IN THE RAW, UNTOUCHABLE DETROIT SOUND. THREE YEARS AGO, SHADOW SHOW RELEASED THEIR DEBUT ALBUM, “SILHOUETTES,” IN THE US (BURGER RECORDS) AND UK (STOLEN BODY RECORDS). SINCE THEN, THEY HAVE DEDICATED THEMSELVES TO WRITING, ARRANGING, AND PRODUCING THEIR EPIC MASTERPIECE, “FANTASY NOW!”, WHILE OCCASIONALLY TAKING BREAKS FOR FULL LENGTH US, UK, AND EU TOURS, AS WELL AS OBTAINING SUPPORT DATES WITH BANDS LIKE AUTOMATIC, DEATH VALLEY GIRLS, THE NUDE PARTY, AND THE 5.6.7.8'S, TO NAME A FEW. “FANTASY NOW”' IS A HUGE STEP FORWARD FROM THEIR DEBUT LP, REACHING A MORE AMBITIOUS SGT. PEPPERY PSYCHEDELIC VISION THAT INCLUDES SWIRLING POP MELODIES, FUZZ GUITAR HOOKS, FLUTES, TYMPANI, BACKWARDS SURPRISE TWISTS, AND A MAGICAL MEDIEVAL ACAPELLA INTERLUDE. SHINDIG MAGAZINE SAYS SHADOW SHOW "TRANSPORT THE LISTENER DOWN A SPIRAL INTO THE MIND'S EYE.” ALLMUSIC PRAISES THEIR "KALEIDOSCOPIC EXPLOSION OF TREMOLO GUITARS AND MOD POP VOCAL HARMONIES,” AND YOUTUBE USER KEVIN_USA1980 COMMENTED "THESE SONGS, THOSE HARMONIES AND THEIR STYLISH SENSIBILITIES DEFY ALL REASONABLE EXPECTATIONS AFTER HEARING THEM SIMPLY DESCRIBED AS DETROIT GARAGE ROCK." THE BAND HAS RECENTLY COMPLETED A USA TOUR, AND FULL USA AND EUROPEAN DATES ARE BEING BOOKED FOR SPRING 2024. SHADOW SHOW'S TRANSCENDENTAL TRIUMPH, “FANTASY NOW!” WAS WRITTEN, RECORDED, AND PRODUCED BY SHADOW SHOW IN DETROIT, MI, WITH THE EXCEPTION OF “AUNT MAIZY,” RECORDED LIVE IN LONDON, UK. MASTERED BY WARREN DEFEVER (THIRD MAN RECORDS, HIS NAME IS ALIVE). THE ALBUM WILL BE RELEASED WORLDWIDE FEBRUARY 16, 2024 ON LITTLE CLOUD RECORDS (US) AND STOLEN BODY RECORDS (UK).” https://www.shadowshow-detroit.com/about Ava East: Instagram: @aznageelthemage Website: https://avaeast.myportfolio.com Merch: https://avaeast.bigcartel.com Shadow Show: Bandcamp: https://shadowshow-detroit.bandcamp.com Instagram: @shadow_show.detroit Website: https://www.shadowshow-detroit.com Merch: https://www.shadowshow-detroit.com/shop Mod Lang: Bandcamp: https://modlangdetroit.bandcamp.com Instagram: @mod__lang Merch: https://modlangdetroit.bandcamp.com/merch Records: https://justaddwaterrecords.bigcartel.com The Vineyard: Instagram: @thevineyardpodcast Website: https://www.thevineyardpodcast.com Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@thevineyardpodcast

A comforting garden can feel as soft and familiar as your favourite cashmere jumper, and in this episode of ‘grow, cook, eat, arrange', Sarah shares a palette which achieves exactly this feeling.In the latest of the Colour Guide Mini Series episodes, Sarah shares how to create a mood using the comforting palette, the key plant families and varieties, plus how to sequence them through the seasons, so your borders feel gentle and soothing from early spring to late autumn.In this episode, discover:How to create a warm, comforting colour palette in your garden using soft pastels like café au lait, peach, putty pink and ivorySpecific plant families and varieties that deliver these soothing tonesA clear, season-by-season planting framework so your comforting palette runs from early spring right through to late autumnProducts mentioned:Narcissus ‘Precocious': sarahraven.com/products/narcissus-precociousAntirrhinum ‘Appleblossom': sarahraven.com/products/antirrhinum-majus-appleblossomCosmos ‘Apricotta': sarahraven.com/products/cosmos-bipinnatus-apricottaCalendula ‘Sunset Buff': sarahraven.com/products/calendula-officinalis-sunset-buffPhlox drummondii ‘Cherry Caramel': sarahraven.com/products/phlox-drummondii-cherry-caramelZinnia ‘Queeny Lime Orange': sarahraven.com/products/zinnia-elegans-queeny-lime-orangeDahlia ‘Break Out': sarahraven.com/products/dahlia-break-outSee our events: https://www.sarahraven.com/courses-eventsGet in touch: info@sarahraven.comShop on the Sarah Raven Website: https://www.sarahraven.com/Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sarahravensgarden/Follow Sarah: https://www.instagram.com/sarahravenperchhill/Order Sarah's latest books: https://www.sarahraven.com/gifts/gardening-books?sort=newest

For many, the garden should be a peaceful place where its colours invite you in and envelop you in their earthy tones, and that's the role of Sarah Raven's velvet palette.In this episode of the Colour Guide Mini Series, Sarah moves us to her next, and perhaps favourite palette of the four. She talks through their calming colours, and the flower families that help keep that tranquility in your garden through a reliable planting succession.In this episode, discover:How to create a velvet colour palette in your garden using deep crimsons, golds, bronzes and inky purples that feel cosy and envelopingWhich reliable plant families and standout varieties deliver these rich, velvety tonesHow to plan succession planting so the velvet palette runs from late winter and early spring right through to autumnPractical ideas from Sarah's own garden on combining colour and texture to create a sense of haven, enclosure and warmth outdoorsProducts mentioned:Tulip ‘Palmyra': sarahraven.com/products/tulip-palmyraTulip ‘Ridgedale': sarahraven.com/products/tulip-ridgedaleTulip ‘Hermitage': sarahraven.com/products/tulip-hermitageTulip ‘Cairo' (Copex Cairo): sarahraven.com/products/tulip-copex-cairoTulip ‘Belleville' (Bellville): sarahraven.com/products/tulip-bellvilleTulip ‘Dom Pedro': sarahraven.com/products/tulip-dom-pedroAmaranthus ‘Coral Fountain': sarahraven.com/products/amaranthus-caudatus-coral-fountainDahlia ‘Verrone's Obsidian' (Veronese Obsidian): sarahraven.com/products/dahlia-verrones-obsidianDahlia ‘Rip City': sarahraven.com/products/dahlia-rip-cityDahlia ‘Sarah Raven': sarahraven.com/products/dahlia-sarah-ravenDahlia ‘Molly Raven': sarahraven.com/products/dahlia-molly-ravenDahlia ‘Schipper's Bronze': sarahraven.com/products/dahlia-schippers-bronzeAntirrhinum ‘Liberty Classic Crimson': sarahraven.com/products/antirrhinum-f1-liberty-classic-crimsonFollow Sarah: https://www.instagram.com/sarahravenperchhill/Get in touch: info@sarahraven.comShop on the Sarah Raven Website: https://www.sarahraven.com/Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sarahravensgarden/Order Sarah's latest books: https://www.sarahraven.com/gifts/gardening-books?sort=newest

General guitar method books are intended to guide beginner players through a comprehensive study of technique, reading standard notation, playing basic chords, etc. However, they can provide a very useful platform for acoustic fingerstyle practice if you know how to use them!  Today we'll take a look at two widely used guitar method books that are closely related: Essential Elements for Guitar: Comprehensive Guitar Method (Will Schmid and Bob Morris), and Hal Leonard's Guitar Method Book 1 (Will Schmid and Greg Koch) For years, I used the Hal Leonard Guitar Method with my kid students, but at some point, I came across the Essential Elements book (which is also published by Hal Leonard).  This book shares Will Schmid as an author, and most of the treble clef exercises and melodies are exactly the same, but there are a bunch of extra tunes mixed in to give students more chordal practice.  Other than about $3 in price difference, there is really no reason to ever buy the Hal Leonard Guitar Method. These books do have value to beginner players who just picked up a guitar and have no idea where to start.  You can't go wrong working through a general method book, especially with a teacher who can ensure that you are developing the proper technique, who can introduce appropriate supplemental repertoire, etc.  However, if you are trying to teach yourself to play guitar, a general method book will certainly get your farther than watching random YouTube videos.  A book like this will guide you from point A to point B in a linear, sensible course of study, whereas YouTube videos tend to jump around from topic to topic according to YouTube's algorithm rather than your best interest as an aspiring guitarist. Now, I almost never work with adult students straight through a book like this, as many of them already have some experience and have somewhat clear musical goals that may be better served with a more focused book.  For example, there are fingerstyle method books for my fingerstyle students, there are classical method books for my classical students, and so on. However, having spent over a decade teaching kids out of these books, I have found that many of these melodies make great platforms for fingerstyle guitar!  In a typical guitar lesson, a teacher may ask their student to perform a melody from the book.  The teacher will generally either watch and listen closely or they will provide some sort of accompaniment – that is, They will play the melody in unison with the student to help guide them, They'll play a harmony that is written out in the book, or They'll strum the chords.  Over the years I started accompanying my students with solo fingerstyle versions of the tunes to provide both their melody and the underlying harmony.  This has proven to be helpful to my students, challenging and satisfying for myself, and fun for all. I'm planning to do a series of videos breaking down how I create these little arrangements.  My process has been codified in my book Arranging for Fingerstyle, which is available as an eBook which you can purchase through the link in the show description below.  However, for this first video, I'll just give you a sample of how I transform some of the exercises. My own books: Arranging for Fingerstyle Guitar: go to http://joemcmurray.com/checkout/ to purchase a pdf of my eBook.  Learning to arrange melodies will also help your fingerstyle songwriting and your understanding of the inner workings of fingerstyle guitar. Fingerstyle Blues Guitar: An In-Depth Study of the 12-Bar Blues in E Major – Books 1 and 2 are available in paperback or as an eBook through Amazon [https://a.co/d/g7Udsso (Book 1) and https://a.co/d/aDbh4H0 (Book 2)].  The first priority of these books is to quickly get you playing a solo instrumental 12-bar blues, and then to build on it until you can freely improvise or “jam.” You should be up and running by the end of the third chapter, and each following chapter will add icing on the cake. My upcoming book, Arranging for Fingerstyle Ukulele, will be published by Mel Bay in 2026. My music is available on all streaming platforms at https://open.spotify.com/artist/5dcokTG6C598OhTslHH5uo?si=hrQb7FViSZewDRSgECw9Ew: Pins on the Map: my third fingerstyle guitar album was released on January 19, 2024. Watch the first single, “Open Road,” on YouTube here: https://youtu.be/uPBh8sZQsT4?si=EM_wAwnHFqU1VC9C. Riding the Wave and Acoustic Oasis: my first two fingerstyle guitar albums.

Seeds sown in March are the great givers of colour and fragrance in a cutting garden or container, from spring right through to autumn.This week, Sarah is joined by Josie Lewis to walk through 12 of the most trusted plants to sow now, how to fill your beds, pots and vases, and feed the birds from a single month's sowing.In this episode, discover:Practical techniques for handling both big and dust-fine seeds, including when to sow in trays and when to direct sowSpecific tips for making the most of tricky or easily-flopped favourites like cerinthe, amaranth and poppies, so they thrive both in the garden and in the vaseHow to get more from each plant – from cut-and-come-again grasses to edible flowers and home-made calendula remediesHow to plan your March sowing so it supports wildlife, with seed heads that feed birds well into winterProducts mentioned:Cerinthe major 'Kiwi Blue' https://www.sarahraven.com/products/cerinthe-major-kiwi-blueAmaranthus ‘Hot Biscuits' https://www.sarahraven.com/products/amaranthus-hot-biscuitsAmaranthus ‘Coral Fountain' https://www.sarahraven.com/products/amaranthus-caudatus-coral-fountainMoluccella / Bells of Ireland https://www.sarahraven.com/products/moluccella-laevisAntirrhinum ‘Giant White' https://www.sarahraven.com/products/antirrhinum-giant-whiteAntirrhinum ‘Liberty Crimson' (Liberty Classic Crimson F1) https://www.sarahraven.com/products/antirrhinum-f1-liberty-classic-crimsonAntirrhinum ‘Apple Blossom' https://www.sarahraven.com/products/antirrhinum-majus-appleblossomAntirrhinum majus 'Sonnet Burgundy' F1https://www.sarahraven.com/products/antirrhinum-sonnet-burgundyAntirrhinum majus 'Sonnet Orange Scarlet' F1https://www.sarahraven.com/products/antirrhinum-sonnet-orange-scarletAntirrhinum majus 'Sonnet Carmine' F1https://www.sarahraven.com/products/antirrhinum-sonnet-carmineCobaea (Cup-and-saucer vine) https://www.sarahraven.com/products/cobaea-scandens-purplePoppy ‘Amazing Grey' https://www.sarahraven.com/products/papaver-rhoeas-amazing-greyPoppy ‘Mother of Pearl' https://www.sarahraven.com/products/papaver-rhoeas-mother-of-pearlBlack Single Papaver somniferum (Opium Poppy) https://www.sarahraven.com/products/papaver-somniferum-black-singleGet in touch: info@sarahraven.comShop on the Sarah Raven Website: https://www.sarahraven.com/Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sarahravensgarden/Order Sarah's latest books: https://www.sarahraven.com/gifts/gardening-books?sort=newest

Pastoral ministry seeks to include all those who feel called to offer their talents for praise and service to the Church. Music is a unique ministry in that, while we want all to join us, those who participate must have some sort of experience in music. It doesn't necessarily need to be professional experience - singing in the shower can count as experience for a new potential choir member, and a simple handbell workshop can familiarize a music minister with starting in the handbell choir. But when it comes to instrumental ensembles, how do we make sure that all those who join us with their instruments in hand feel rooted in an ensemble and confident to work within it?Today we speak to Luke Rosen about just that. Since 2019, Luke Rosen has served as the Director of Choral Music at Evergreen Local Schools, where he has taught middle school and high school choir, music theory, songwriting, and voice class. For 15 years before that, he served as Director of Choral and Liturgical Music at St. John's Jesuit High School. In addition Luke is a published composer with multiple companies, including ECS, Santa Barbara Music Publishing, OCP, Liturgical Press, and GIA/WLP. Today we speak from compositional, directorial, and ministerial viewpoints, all focused on arranging for the unexpected. It's a great conversation as we approach Holy Week.

The garden is a welcoming place for all, particularly for newcomers when guided by the gentle eye of Milli Proust, and under the instruction of her calming new book.Milli joins us once again, this time to share the inspiring journey that's led up to her most approachable book to date, and some of the easy-to-understand frameworks to create an effortlessly beautiful garden.In this episode, discover:How Milli Proust found floristry, and began creating a deeply loved, biodiverse garden in West SussexA gentle but practical way to think about why we garden focused around connection, memory, and belonging to natureMilli's “plant pyramid” and other simple frameworks for beginner gardeners planning borders Ideas for low-maintenance but beautiful gardens, including orchards underplanted with bulbs, and using local materialsMilli's taster course at Perch Hill on Wednesday 6th May 2026:https://www.sarahraven.com/products/milli-proust-taster-course-beginner-gardeners?srsltid=AfmBOopaQgpAKlaAx724RwtbLXGrmm_NkyOCTWu2N42YnAOUzRlu--wlOrder Milli's Book, ‘How Does Your Garden Grow?':https://www.amazon.co.uk/How-Does-Your-Garden-Grow/dp/1837832250Products mentioned:Aquilegia Vulgaris 'Hensol Harebell'https://www.sarahraven.com/products/aquilegia-hensol-harebellGalanthus nivalis (Common Snowdrop)https://www.sarahraven.com/products/galanthus-nivalisWild Marjoram (Origanum vulgare)https://www.sarahraven.com/products/wild-marjoramSyringa meyeri 'Flowerfesta Pink'https://www.sarahraven.com/products/syringa-meyeri-flowerfesta-pinkViburnum tinushttps://www.sarahraven.com/products/viburnum-tinusDaphne 'Perfume Princess'https://www.sarahraven.com/products/daphne-perfume-princessFollow Sarah: https://www.instagram.com/sarahravenperchhill/Get in touch: info@sarahraven.comShop on the Sarah Raven Website: http://bit.ly/3jvbaeuFollow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sarahravensgarden/Order Sarah's latest books: https://www.sarahraven.com/gifts/gardening-books?sort=newest

The luminous palette - a rich, stained glass collection of citrus, scarlet and pinky-purples - is the first of Sarah's colour combinations that we'll walk through in depth for this episode of the Colour Guide Mini Series.Sarah explains the six key colours, which ones to use together throughout the year, and the flower families which she considers the most prominent and productive as they pass the colour baton through the year.In this episode, discover:How to use Sarah's luminous palette without overwhelming your gardenThe key plant families and varieties that reliably deliver bold, stained‑glass colourSarah's favourite colour combinations and how to place ‘shouty' colours so they look intentionalA simple season‑by‑season planning method using two‑month blocks and the ‘bride, bridesmaid, gatecrasher' idea to keep colour going from March to OctoberProducts mentioned:Euphorbia ceratocarpahttps://www.sarahraven.com/products/euphorbia-ceratocarpaTulip 'Ballerina'https://www.sarahraven.com/products/tulip-ballerinaTulip 'Black Parrot'https://www.sarahraven.com/products/tulip-black-parrotTulip 'Rococo'https://www.sarahraven.com/products/tulip-rococoTulip 'Go Go Red'https://www.sarahraven.com/products/tulip-go-go-redTulip 'Mariette'https://www.sarahraven.com/products/tulip-marietteTulip 'Purple Heart'https://www.sarahraven.com/products/tulip-purple-heartLunaria annuahttps://www.sarahraven.com/products/lunaria-annuaCrocosmia 'Lucifer'https://www.sarahraven.com/products/crocosmia-luciferPhlox paniculata 'Blue Paradise'https://www.sarahraven.com/products/phlox-paniculata-blue-paradiseDahlia 'Thomas A. Edison'https://www.sarahraven.com/products/dahlia-thomas-a-edisonSweet Pea 'Blue Velvet'https://www.sarahraven.com/products/sweet-pea-blue-velvetSweet Pea 'King Edward VII'https://www.sarahraven.com/products/lathyrus-odoratus-king-edward-viiSweet Pea 'Matucana'https://www.sarahraven.com/products/lathyrus-odoratus-matucanaSalvia 'Jezebel'https://www.sarahraven.com/products/salvia-jezebelFollow Sarah: https://www.instagram.com/sarahravenperchhill/Get in touch: info@sarahraven.comShop on the Sarah Raven Website: http://bit.ly/3jvbaeuFollow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sarahravensgarden/Order Sarah's latest books: https://www.sarahraven.com/gifts/gardening-books?sort=newest

Looking to learn new fingerstyle blues tunes to play on your acoustic guitar?  This is a rundown of my favorite fingerstyle blues repertoire books. Hopefully you have already seen my previous video of “Best Fingerstyle Blues Method Books.”  Method books provide a guided course of study with explanatory text, exercises, example tune arrangements, etc.  In this video I will be talking about my favorite fingerstyle blues repertoire books, which simply provide tune arrangements and possibly some background info for each tune. I've been through many, many books, and I have been teaching and performing professionally for over a decade, so hopefully my insights can help guide you to the book that is best for you! Be aware that all of these repertoire books provide standard notation and tablature, and most of them do NOT provide any picking or fretting hand fingering.  Working out optimal fingering is extremely important when learning an arrangement – good fingering choices make playing easier and minimize the potential for mistakes. Best Repertoire Books 1) The Complete Acoustic Blues Guitar Method (Mann, 2014) Repertoire book that presents lots of tunes from across the many subgenres of fingerstyle blues.  These are solid arrangements that occasionally provide multiple choruses to show variations- this is extremely valuable for extending short tunes into performance length pieces.  It is also worth analyzing the author's variations so that you can learn to create your own! Late beginner to advanced, but majority of the tunes are of an intermediate difficulty. I really like the organization of the book: tunes are organized by subgenre, and within each section the tunes are arranged from easiest to hardest.  Each tune comes with nice historical background info and listening recommendations. 2) 12-Bar Fingerstyle Blues (Rubin, 2012) Repertoire book. Mostly intermediate. More repetitive grooves than some of the other fingerstyle blues books on the market.  Fewer lyrical phrases in the melodies.  I like that the tunes organized by subgenre, but the difficulty jumps around from tune to tune. For experienced players, this is a fast book to work through.  Because each tune is a 12-bar chorus, you will get a lot of ideas that you can digest, combine, and make your own in the future. Next, I want to introduce a special book that doesn't quite fit into the simple “Repertoire Book” category: 3) The New Art of Ragtime Guitar (Saslow, 2011, 2017 2nd Ed.) This book is essentially a repertoire book of ragtime blues tunes, but the analysis that accompanies each tune is extensive and extremely valuable. Late beginner to advanced and difficulty progresses with each tune. These tunes are really fun, and you will gain valuable insight from the analysis.  The author coaches you through fingering choices, his use of guide, anchor, or pivot fingers, etc.  These lessons will make you a better player. 4) Fingerstyle Blues Songbook (James, 2005) Another repertoire book with good arrangements and historical background info. Honestly, it's not all that much different from Woody Mann's The Complete Acoustic Blues Guitar Method, but this book is much shorter. Late-beginner to intermediate, although advanced players will certainly enjoy the tunes as well. 5) Complete Country Blues Guitar Book (Grossman, 1992) Repertoire book.  Good arrangements.  Lots of authentic tunes. Stefan Grossman is an incredible musicologist who helped rediscover and promote much of the old fingerstyle blues music of the 1920s and 30s.  I really like the interviews and historical information that he has included making this a great coffee table book. Late-beginner to intermediate. Tunes organized by subgenre. Strange TAB. *6) Solo Blues Guitar (Rubin, 2006) Repertoire – I'm putting this book at the end because it is NOT a fingerstyle blues guitar book.  The examples can be played fingerstyle, but most seem to work best with a plectrum/pick/flatpick.  However, I want to include this book for a couple reasons: It is focused on solo blues guitar arrangements I LOVE this book.  These examples are fun and they inspire me to improvise in new ways with new grooves. Like Rubin's 12-Bar Fingerstyle Blues, these tunes also feature repetitive grooves alternating with melodic lines and licks, rather than choruses focused on lyrical melodies. My own books: Fingerstyle Blues Guitar: An In-Depth Study of the 12-Bar Blues in E Major – Books 1 and 2 are available in paperback or eBook through Amazon [https://a.co/d/g7Udsso (Book 1) and https://a.co/d/aDbh4H0 (Book 2)]. The first priority of these books is to quickly get you playing a solo instrumental 12-bar blues, & then to build on it until you can freely improvise or “jam.” You should be up and running by the end of the third chapter, and each following chapter will add icing on the cake. Arranging for Fingerstyle Guitar: go to http://joemcmurray.com/checkout/ to purchase a pdf of my eBook. Arranging for Fingerstyle Ukulele, will be published by Mel Bay in 2026. My music is available on all streaming platforms at https://open.spotify.com/artist/5dcokTG6C598OhTslHH5uo?si=hrQb7FViSZewDRSgECw9Ew: Pins on the Map: my third fingerstyle guitar album was released on January 19, 2024. Watch the first single, “Open Road,” on YouTube here: https://youtu.be/uPBh8sZQsT4?si=EM_wAwnHFqU1VC9C. Riding the Wave and Acoustic Oasis: my first two fingerstyle guitar albums.

In this episode, I sit down with Taylor Eigsti, and this conversation goes everywhere I hoped it would. We talk about preparation versus spontaneity, writing music that leaves room for the present moment, and why the best ensembles feel more like carefully cast films than perfectly rehearsed machines.Taylor shares what it's been like working recently with Michael League, Ben Wendel, Kendrick Scott, Antonio Sánchez, and others, and we get deep into his compositional mindset—why quantity matters, why “bad ideas” are necessary, and how composition is a muscle that has to be exercised. We also talk about his Grammy-winning albums Tree Falls and Plot Armor, the long studio hours behind them, and why recognition doesn't always translate the way people expect.Along the way, we hit on collaboration, identity, touring life, teaching, football fandom, and what it really means to show up prepared and fully present for the moment that actually matters—the short window onstage when everything finally comes alive.Music from the Episode:Let You Bee (Taylor Eigsti)Bucket of F's (Taylor Eigsti)Look Around You (Taylor Eigsti)Thank you for listening. If you have questions, feedback, or ideas for the show, please email me at brad@thebandwichtapes.com.

Colour is best when it's tangible, and if you're planning a patch in your garden then this episode of the Mini Series is perfect to help you bring your plans to life.In this episode of the Colour Guide Mini Series, Sarah dives into the practical side of using colour as the backbone of your garden design - from using candles to visualise colour combinations, to the ‘bride, bridesmaid, gate crasher' structure that'll help guide you towards an ensemble that works in harmony.In this episode, discover:How to choose a garden colour palette based on the feeling you want to create (washed, velvet, comforting or luminous)A simple “bride, bridesmaid, gate crasher” recipe for combining plants in harmonious yet lively colour schemesPractical ways to test and refine palettes using coloured candles, mood boards and real flowers in your hand or in a vaseHow to plan colour in succession by breaking the year into seasonal chunks and identifying plants that “carry the baton” across monthsReal planting examples and border ideas drawn from Sarah's own garden, including her vase-to-border comforting palette schemeProducts mentioned:Nepeta x faassenii 'Kit Kat'https://www.sarahraven.com/products/nepeta-x-faassenii-kit-katAlchemilla mollishttps://www.sarahraven.com/products/alchemilla-mollisClematis viticella 'Etoile Violette'https://www.sarahraven.com/products/clematis-viticella-etoile-violetteCosmos bipinnatus 'Sonata Carmine'https://www.sarahraven.com/products/cosmos-bipinnatus-sonata-carmineSalvia viridis 'Blue Monday'https://www.sarahraven.com/products/salvia-viridis-blueDahlia 'Peaches'https://www.sarahraven.com/products/dahlia-peachesCampsis x tagliabuana 'Indian Summer'https://www.sarahraven.com/products/campsis-x-tagliabuana-indian-summerPhlox drummondii 'Blushing Bride'https://www.sarahraven.com/products/phlox-drummondii-blushing-brideAbelia x grandiflorahttps://www.sarahraven.com/products/abelia-x-grandifloraHydrangea paniculata 'Limelight' AGMhttps://www.sarahraven.com/products/hydrangea-paniculata-limelightStipa giganteahttps://www.sarahraven.com/products/stipa-giganteaFollow Sarah: https://www.instagram.com/sarahravenperchhill/Get in touch: info@sarahraven.comShop on the Sarah Raven Website: http://bit.ly/3jvbaeuFollow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sarahravensgarden/Order Sarah's latest books: https://www.sarahraven.com/gifts/gardening-books?sort=newest

I sat down with Janie Barnett, a singer, songwriter, arranger, and educator whose career reflects a steady commitment to saying yes to what fits and no to what does not.We begin with her roots in the Greater Washington area, where summers at the Smithsonian Folklife Festival and early exposure to roots music shaped her ear. Moving to New York was a shock. The city carried a gritty, post-Patti Smith energy and felt like a long search for a new urban Americana sound. Janie found her footing through community, especially friendships with Robin Batteau and Kenny White. Session work, including jingles, gave her financial stability and the freedom to keep her songwriting honest rather than chasing a paycheck through her own music.We talk about life behind the scenes and what it taught her about leadership. Janie shares stories from sessions with Linda Ronstadt and a career highlight singing background vocals on Saturday Night Live with Rickie Lee Jones, one of her musical heroes. Being on the team shaped how she leads her own bands, creating rooms where musicians feel respected and invited to contribute.She also reflects on how becoming a parent changed her artistry. Her songs deepened, her priorities clarified, and the work stopped feeling precious in the face of real life.We spend time on her project Under My Skin, a reimagining of Cole Porter through an acoustic Americana lens. What began as a guitar idea for I've Got You Under My Skin grew into a pandemic-era collaboration with an extraordinary group of musicians, including Carmela Ramsey and Jerry Douglas, many of whom recorded from home studios. The album proves Porter's writing is timeless, and Janie's voice brings it all together.We close with her work at Berklee, where she mentors singer-songwriters and leads ensembles. She speaks candidly about the pressures of constant content and social media, and the importance of building real community and a live musical life. Looking ahead, she is planning a vinyl release of the Cole Porter project, aiming for a show around Porter's birthday in June, and working toward a new record of original songs with a clearer strategy for getting it into the world.Music from the Episode:LIfe Is Long and Then It's Not (Janie Barnett)Delaware Bridge (Janie Barnett)If You Were Here (Janie Barnett)I've Got You Under My Skin (Janie Barnett)Night and Day  (Janie Barnett with Keith Sewell)You're the Top (Janie Barnett with Catherine Russell)Thank you for listening. If you have questions, feedback, or ideas for the show, please email me at brad@thebandwichtapes.com.

This episode of The Other Side of the Bell, featuring trumpet performer and recording artist Kyla Moscovich, is brought to you by Bob Reeves Brass. This episode also appears as a video episode on our YouTube channel, you can find it here: "Kyla Moscovich Trumpet Interview" And, find the expanded show notes, transcript and more photos here   At a year old she had a trumpet in her hands, and she hasn't looked back since!   Kyla Moscovich has built a burgeoning career that bridges classical, jazz and pop music, performing concerts all over the world and, more recently, developing her studio skills as well, on Grammy-nominated records.   She has studied with Vincent Penzarella, Mark Gould, Laurie Frink and Tom Smith, was mentored by Jon Faddis, and was on stage at Carnegie Hall while still in her teens.   Kyla's father was close friends with Bob Reeves, and so her potential and trajectory was apparent around the shop from very early days. But, as we talk about today, the trumpet was not necessarily an automatic pursuit.   Kyla struggled to balance the expectations of practice and studying music with friends and normal kid activities, as any kid would, and we talk about what it was like growing up in that kind of environment, making the "jump into adulthood" earlier than most of us have.   Our conversation today is a fascinating glimpse into how to build a modern career in the music industry playing trumpet, not to mention how to pursue your own musical tastes, and forge a path that's true to you.   About Kyla Moscovich: Growing up in New York City, Kyla got her training from the Manhattan School of Music, studying Orchestral Performance and Arranging.   After graduating with her undergraduate degree, she quickly entered into the studio space where she began writing, recording, and arranging, while taking her knowledge of harmony and sound and applying it to her unique musical fingerprint, which can be heard on many world renowned records. Now based in Los Angeles, multi Grammy nominated writer/arranger Kyla has become one of the most sought-after horn producers, collaborating with artists such as J. Cole, Drake, Beyoncé, Kanye West, Victoria Monét, Céline Dion, Diana Ross, and more.   Episode Links: Website Instagram @kyla_moscovich Kyla on Just For The Record   Bob Reeves Brass Upcoming Events and Appearances: Dillon Music, Feb. 26-28, Woodbridge, New Jersey sales@dillonmusic.com National Trumpet Festival, March 20-22, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA https://trumpetmouthpiece.com/products/national-trumpet-competition-valve-alignment-special Metropolitan Music, April 10-11, Seattle, WA https://calendly.com/bobreevesbrass/metropolitan-music-valve-alignment-appointment  Arkansas Trumpet Day, April 18th, Arkansas State University, Jonesboro, AR   Podcast Credits: "A Room with a View" - composed and performed by Howie Shear Podcast Host - John Snell Cover Photo Credit - Courtesy Kyla Moscovich Audio Engineer - Ted Cragg

We're bringing some powerful past episodes back from thevault this week as we prepare for our Neuroscience of Content Creation Course starting next week!In this episode, Michelle dives into the comfort zone, whyit feels safe but can quietly keep you stuck, and how autosuggestion helps rewire your dominant thoughts. If you've ever felt like you're “settled” but not truly growing, this one will stretch your thinking in the best way.These throwback episodes are focused on deeper neuroconcepts around belief, attention, identity, and lasting change, and they're easy to apply not just in your own life, but with clients, teams, and audiences.Ready to take this deeper? Join us here:GrowBy1.com/NeuroCourseQuestions? Reach out anytime:Michelle@GrowBy1.com

Welcome to the first in a brand new miniseries of ‘grow, cook, eat, arrange', as Sarah delves into the world of colour, and how to use each colour palette to its absolute maximum potential in the garden.In this week's first episode, Sarah shares how the colour system used at Perch Hill came to be, the theories behind mixing certain palettes, and the difference between calm and chaos when combining colours.In this episode, discover:How Sarah's experiences as a florist, gardener and colour-obsessed child shaped her approach to garden colourHow the colour palettes underpin every border at Perch HillWhy misuse of colour can make some gardens feel chaotic The six key colours within each palette, from citrus brights and Venetian velvets to café-au-lait pastels and cool silversWhy no colour is truly “wrong” in a garden, and how the right combinations and contrasts can make even challenging shades singProducts mentioned:Tulip 'Mariette': https://www.sarahraven.com/products/tulip-marietteTulip 'Sarah Raven': https://www.sarahraven.com/products/tulip-sarah-ravenTulip 'Slawa': https://www.sarahraven.com/products/tulip-slawaTulip 'Dom Pedro': https://www.sarahraven.com/products/tulip-dom-pedroTulip 'Copex Cairo': https://www.sarahraven.com/products/tulip-copex-cairoDahlia 'Waltzing Mathilda': https://www.sarahraven.com/products/dahlia-waltzing-mathildaDahlia 'Schipper's Bronze': https://www.sarahraven.com/products/dahlia-schippers-bronzeDahlia 'Tom's Choice': https://www.sarahraven.com/products/dahlia-toms-choiceDahlia 'Molly Raven': https://www.sarahraven.com/products/dahlia-molly-ravenDahlia 'Perch Hill': https://www.sarahraven.com/products/dahlia-perch-hillDahlia 'Lou Farman': https://www.sarahraven.com/products/dahlia-lou-farmanCosmos bipinnatus 'Rubenza': https://www.sarahraven.com/products/cosmos-bipinnatus-rubenzaCosmos bipinnatus 'Dazzler': https://www.sarahraven.com/products/cosmos-bipinnatus-dazzlerCosmos bipinnatus 'Xanthos': https://www.sarahraven.com/products/cosmos-bipinnatus-xanthosDigitalis purpurea 'Sutton's Apricot': https://www.sarahraven.com/products/digitalis-purpurea-suttons-apricotFollow Sarah: https://www.instagram.com/sarahravenperchhill/Get in touch: info@sarahraven.comShop on the Sarah Raven Website: http://bit.ly/3jvbaeuFollow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sarahravensgarden/Order Sarah's latest books: https://www.sarahraven.com/gifts/gardening-books?sort=newest

Is this one of the best or worst method or repertoire books for learning to play acoustic fingerstyle blues guitar? You can learn to play music using a variety of resources including teachers, online resources, and books. 12-Bar Fingerstyle Blues by Dave Rubin is another great repertoire book full of 12-bar blues choruses.  I loved the author's other book, Solo Blues Guitar, and now I recommend this one as well – these fun arrangements inspire me to improvise in new ways with new grooves.  However, unlike the arrangements of his other book, these arrangements all need to be played without a plectrum.  This book has some tunes that late-beginner fingerstyle players could handle, but the book is most appropriate for intermediate players. The tunes in 12-Bar Fingerstyle Blues contain more repetitive grooves than some of the other fingerstyle blues method books on the market.  Fewer lyrical phrases in the melodies.  Whether that's what you're looking for is up to you.  However, I find that these pieces present some great grooves that you can use as the foundation for your own variations and improvisation. To really get the most out of the book, you will want to: Learn an example as written, Understand and internalize the groove – the shuffle, chord stabs, etc. Create your own melodic variations and improvisations while maintaining the original groove. By treating each short 12-bar tune as a seed or template for your own creativity, you can really milk these ideas and extend them into longer performances. This book presents a lot of great 12-bar choruses from various subgenres.  For experienced players, it is very fast to go through the entire book.  Because each tune is a 12-bar chorus, you get a lot of ideas that you can digest, combine, and make into your own in the future.  This book is simple and effective if you know how to use it. I appreciate the chronological organization of this book, which separates tunes out into subgenres including Delta and Southern Country Blues (the longest section), Ragtime Blues, Piedmont Blues, Prewar Chicago Blues, Texas Blues, Postwar Chicago Blues, and Modern American Solo Steel-String Blues.  Unfortunately, the tunes don't really follow a clear difficulty progression.  Within each section, multiple keys signatures and grooves are presented, and some happen to be a bit harder than others. At the beginning of each subgenre, the author presents some cool history and key players to listen to.  I try to set aside time within my practice sessions to listen to lots of recordings of these players.  Personally, I listen on Spotify.  This listening is time well spent as it attunes me to the sounds and feel that I should aiming for as I play the tunes. 12-Bar Fingerstyle Blues provides both treble clef and tablature for each arrangement.  Unfortunately, no fingering is provided in the music.  For each example, I notated my own fingering in the music, after which I was able to play much more smoothly, accurately, and confidently.  The skill of choosing sensible fingering is important, and you will need to look elsewhere to further develop this skill. Recordings are available online through Hal Leonard's website.  These will be very helpful to many readers.  As with Solo Blues Guitar, the recordings were done by Doug Boduch, the author of Hal Leonard's Fingerpicking Guitar, which I reviewed in Review #17. © 2012 by Hal Leonard My own books: Fingerstyle Blues Guitar: An In-Depth Study of the 12-Bar Blues in E Major – Books 1 and 2 are available in paperback or as an eBook through Amazon [https://a.co/d/g7Udsso (Book 1) and https://a.co/d/aDbh4H0 (Book 2)].  The first priority of these books is to quickly get you playing a solo instrumental 12-bar blues, and then to build on it until you can freely improvise or “jam.” You should be up and running by the end of the third chapter, and each following chapter will add icing on the cake. Arranging for Fingerstyle Guitar: go to http://joemcmurray.com/checkout/ to purchase a pdf of my eBook.  Learning to arrange melodies will also help your fingerstyle songwriting and your understanding of the inner workings of fingerstyle guitar. My upcoming book, Arranging for Fingerstyle Ukulele, will be published by Mel Bay in 2026. My music is available on all streaming platforms at https://open.spotify.com/artist/5dcokTG6C598OhTslHH5uo?si=hrQb7FViSZewDRSgECw9Ew: Pins on the Map: my third fingerstyle guitar album was released on January 19, 2024. Watch the first single, “Open Road,” on YouTube here: https://youtu.be/uPBh8sZQsT4?si=EM_wAwnHFqU1VC9C. Riding the Wave and Acoustic Oasis: my first two fingerstyle guitar albums.

John Ortberg is a pastor, author, and spiritual formation teacher known for helping people experience life with God in their everyday lives. In today's conversation, John shares his journey into pastoral ministry, the unexpected role that decision-making played in discovering his calling, and how God uses the work of pastoring to shape the soul of the pastor. John shares the heart of the gospel as life with God in the present, not just the future, and he discusses how to form people into that reality through clear pathways of discipleship, honest self-examination, and practices that lead to transformation.John and Jason also talk about the hidden pressures of ministry, the slow drift toward cynicism, and why joy is not optional for long-term faithfulness. John offers hard-won wisdom on sustaining integrity, building a real “program” of discipleship, and arranging one's life around deep contentment, joy, and confidence in everyday life with God. Together, John and Jason explore:Why God's will for us often comes down to our freedom to choose, and how decision-making forms our character,The pastorate as a crucible for character formation,The Bible's central invitation as life with God, here and now, not just “getting into heaven,”Why discipleship needs both a fellowship and a program (and what we can learn from 12-step communities)How pastors can arrange their days for deep contentment, joy, and confidence with God.John's wisdom is both tender and bracing as he reminds us that joy isn't a luxury for pastors but that it often serves as the strength that keeps a life faithful, sustainable, and rightly oriented towards God.Show NotesBecome NewSteps: A Guide to Transforming Your Life When Willpower Isn't EnoughA Guide to Flourishing StudyThe Emerging Leaders LabPastors Retreat ScholarshipsPastors Retreat DetailsPartnersSpecial thanks to the Canadian Bible Society for making this episode possible. We invite you to explore their ⁠Bible Course⁠ to help your church grow in Scripture engagement.The work of strengthening pastors across Canada is only possible because of generous partners like you. As we look to the future, would you consider joining us in prayer, sharing this episode, or ⁠making a gift to invest in a vibrant, Jesus-centered church in every community⁠?

Kenny Rampton: Jazz at Lincoln Center, Sesame Street & Finding Positivity Through Music Join us for an intimate conversation with Kenny Rampton, trumpet player with Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra and Sesame Street. Kenny shares his journey from growing up in a musical family in Las Vegas to becoming one of New York's most respected jazz musicians. In this interview, Kenny discusses: • His 11-year tenure with Wynton Marsalis and Jazz at Lincoln Center • Recording for Sesame Street and the impact of children's television • Writing and arranging for big bands • His nonprofit Jazz Outreach Initiative (JOI) and the Las Vegas Youth Jazz Orchestra • Influences from Clark Terry, Clifford Brown, and Maynard Ferguson • Navigating the challenges of COVID-19 as a New York musician • The importance of listening, practice, and finding positivity in difficult times Timestamps: 0:00 - Introduction & Welcome 0:54 - Meeting Kenny & Common Connections 2:44 - The Sesame Street Gig 5:49 - Recording Process & Remote Sessions 10:05 - Lincoln Center & Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra 14:48 - How the Lincoln Center Gig Came About 19:50 - Philosophy on Mistakes & Perfection 23:19 - Writing & Arranging for Big Band 27:35 - Early Years & Musical Background 31:28 - Starting Trumpet & Early Improvisation 33:28 - Teaching & Jazz Outreach Initiative 38:35 - Influences & Listening Recommendations 45:05 - Maynard Ferguson & Current Listening 50:10 - Meeting Sergei Nakariakov & Embracing Silence 51:36 - COVID Impact on New York Musicians 58:30 - Finding Positivity in Difficult Times 1:03:30 - Round Table Discussions with Legendary Musicians 1:06:10 - Closing Thoughts & Final Message Featured Topics: Jazz education and mentorship The reality of being a working musician in NYC Collaboration with world-class artists Life on the road with a touring big band The journey vs. the destination in music and life Connect with Kenny Rampton: Jazz Outreach Initiative: [Add link if available]

Is this one of the best or worst method or repertoire books for learning to play acoustic fingerstyle blues guitar? You can learn to play music using a variety of resources including teachers, online resources, and books. Solo Blues Guitar by Dave Rubin is different from any other book that I've reviewed thus far in that it is not a fingerstyle guitar book.  The examples can be played fingerstyle, but most seem to work best with a plectrum/pick/flatpick.  However, I want to review this book for a couple reasons: It is focused on solo blues guitar arrangements I LOVE this book.  These examples are fun and they inspire me to improvise in new ways with new grooves. Solo Blues Guitar by Dave Rubin is a repertoire book for learning to play, well… solo blues guitar!  With a plectrum.  This book is suitable for intermediate players who already have some knowledge of the blues and how to improvise.  Each example provides a groove that intersperses melody and lead lines.  To really get the most out of the book, you will want to: Learn an example as written, Understand the rhythm guitar groove – the shuffle, chord stabs, etc. Insert your own melodies and improvisation while continuing to hold down the original rhythm guitar groove. You can try creating variations to the original groove as well. Other than a half-page introduction, there is no text in this book.  Only full 12 or 16-bar blues examples: (35) 12-bar, single-chorus examples in the keys of E, A, G, and D, (15) 12-bar, two-chorus, slow blues examples in the keys of E, G, and A, and (5) 16-bar examples with non-standard chord progressions in the key of A. Solo Blues Guitar provides both treble clef and tablature for each arrangement.  Unfortunately, no fingering is provided in the music.  For each example, I notated my own fingering in the music, after which I was able to play much more smoothly, accurately, and confidently.  The skill of choosing sensible fingering is important, and you will need to look elsewhere to further develop this skill. Recordings are available online through Hal Leonard's website.  These will be very helpful to many readers.  Interestingly, the recordings were done by Doug Boduch, the author of Hal Leonard's Fingerpicking Guitar, which I reviewed in Review #17. © 2006 by Hal Leonard My own books: Fingerstyle Blues Guitar: An In-Depth Study of the 12-Bar Blues in E Major – Books 1 and 2 are available in paperback or as an eBook through Amazon [https://a.co/d/g7Udsso (Book 1) and https://a.co/d/aDbh4H0 (Book 2)].  The first priority of these books is to quickly get you playing a solo instrumental 12-bar blues, and then to build on it until you can freely improvise or “jam.” You should be up and running by the end of the third chapter, and each following chapter will add icing on the cake. Arranging for Fingerstyle Guitar: go to http://joemcmurray.com/checkout/ to purchase a pdf of my eBook.  Learning to arrange melodies will also help your fingerstyle songwriting and your understanding of the inner workings of fingerstyle guitar. My upcoming book, Arranging for Fingerstyle Ukulele, will be published by Mel Bay in 2026. My music is available on all streaming platforms at https://open.spotify.com/artist/5dcokTG6C598OhTslHH5uo?si=hrQb7FViSZewDRSgECw9Ew: Pins on the Map: my third fingerstyle guitar album was released on January 19, 2024. Watch the first single, “Open Road,” on YouTube here: https://youtu.be/uPBh8sZQsT4?si=EM_wAwnHFqU1VC9C. Riding the Wave and Acoustic Oasis: my first two fingerstyle guitar albums.

In this episode, Sarah is joined by YouTube phenomenon Huw Richards to talk about his journey from smallholding childhood to seven-acre experimental plot, and the ideas behind his hit book Veg in One Bed. They'll also cover exactly what to sow in late winter, and what'll perform best when sown later – from chillies and aubergines to peas, onions and tomatoes. In this episode, discover:How Huw Richards went from helping on his parents' Welsh smallholding to building a seven-acre experimental food-growing siteThe story behind Huw's first book, Veg in One Bed, and the sheer potential in a single 10x4ft bedHow Huw blends creativity with just enough science to keep things productiveExactly what Huw is sowing in late winter, and why timing mattersHow Huw's now using his land to grow for education, biodiversity and foodEpisode Cover Photo Credit: Dorling Kindersley: Jason IngramProducts mentioned:Pepper 'Padron'https://www.sarahraven.com/products/pepper-padronCourgette 'Black Beauty'https://www.sarahraven.com/products/courgette-black-beautyAubergine 'Slim Jim'https://www.sarahraven.com/products/aubergine-slim-jimSpring Onion 'North Holland Blood Red'https://www.sarahraven.com/products/spring-onion-north-holland-blood-redTomato 'Sungold'https://www.sarahraven.com/products/tomato-sungoldTomato 'Tigerella'https://www.sarahraven.com/products/tomato-tigarellaTomato 'Honeycomb' F1https://www.sarahraven.com/products/tomato-honeycomb-f1Follow Sarah: https://www.instagram.com/sarahravenperchhill/Get in touch: info@sarahraven.comShop on the Sarah Raven Website: http://bit.ly/3jvbaeuFollow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sarahravensgarden/Order Sarah's latest books: https://www.sarahraven.com/gifts/gardening-books?sort=newest

From their resistance to deep snow and hard frosts, to long-flowering habits, hellebores are quietly spectacular plants that earn their keep in pots, borders and shady corners.This week we're diving into one of the true stars of the winter garden, focusing on the new varieties that bring a renewed perspective on one of the winter garden's most generous providers, and how to keep them looking their best in the garden or in a vase.In this episode, discover:How to choose hellebore varieties for pots, borders and different garden conditions, from shade to full sun with Corsican typesThe best new and classic hellebores for long winter colour, including Maestro, Merlin, Strawberry Moon, Bijou and the Pretty Ellen seriesHow to cut, condition and arrange hellebores so they stand proud in a vase for two weeksPractical ways to prevent and deal with pests and diseases like aphids, mice damage, leaf miner and black spotTips on soil, compost, potting and feeding so hellebores thrive as long-lived, reliable perennialsProducts mentioned:Helleborus nigerhttps://www.sarahraven.com/products/helleborus-nigerHelleborus argutifoliushttps://www.sarahraven.com/products/helleborus-argutifoliusHelleborus x ballardiae 'Merlin'https://www.sarahraven.com/products/helleborus-x-ballardiae-merlinHelleborus x 'Bijoux'https://www.sarahraven.com/products/helleborus-bijouxHelleborus x 'Guess'https://www.sarahraven.com/products/helleborus-guessHelleborus orientalis 'Pretty Ellen Red'https://www.sarahraven.com/products/helleborus-pretty-ellen-redHelleborus orientalis 'Pretty Ellen Spotted'https://www.sarahraven.com/products/helleborus-orientalis-pretty-ellen-spottedFollow Sarah: https://www.instagram.com/sarahravenperchhill/Get in touch: info@sarahraven.comShop on the Sarah Raven Website: http://bit.ly/3jvbaeuFollow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sarahravensgarden/Order Sarah's latest books: https://www.sarahraven.com/gifts/gardening-books?sort=newest

March 2026 marks the release of perhaps Sarah's most personal book to date, drawing from childhood love, family influence, and the evolution of one's own gardening tastes.In this week's ‘grow, cook, eat, arrange' Milli Proust joins us to discuss Sarah's new book, ‘A Year of Cut Flowers', blending the memoir and the method to trace her family's historic love of flora, and how it drew Sarah into the world of cut flowers.In this episode, discover:How childhood wildflower hunts with Sarah's father and her life with Adam shaped her lifetime love of cut flowersHow even a small, carefully planned patch of cut flowers can fill your home with abundant, seasonal bloomsThe surprisingly powerful impact of spacing and pinching on plant health, vase life and stem productionWhy gardening, and especially growing for the vase, can become such a life‑enhancing practice which evolves with youProducts mentioned:Abelia x grandiflorahttps://www.sarahraven.com/products/abelia-x-grandifloraCerinthe major 'Purpurascens'https://www.sarahraven.com/products/cerinthe-major-purpurascensEuphorbia oblongatahttps://www.sarahraven.com/products/euphorbia-oblongataSalvia viridis 'Blue Monday'https://www.sarahraven.com/products/salvia-viridis-blueHelianthus annuus 'ProCut Plum' (Sunflower)https://www.sarahraven.com/products/helianthus-annuus-procut-plumAmmi majushttps://www.sarahraven.com/products/ammi-majusPhlox drummondii 'Blushing Bride'https://www.sarahraven.com/products/phlox-drummondii-blushing-brideFollow Sarah: https://www.instagram.com/sarahravenperchhill/Get in touch: info@sarahraven.comShop on the Sarah Raven Website: http://bit.ly/3jvbaeuFollow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sarahravensgarden/Order Sarah's latest books: https://www.sarahraven.com/gifts/gardening-books?sort=newest

The dream garden of low‑maintenance abundance is all about picking the plants that need hardly any input, just the lightest touch of editing, and they'll give you months of shifting colour.In the third episode in this theme with Arthur, we dive into the self-seeding annuals and biennials that bring abundant colour to the garden with very little effort. From forget-me-nots and violas to cerinthe, cosmos and quaking grasses, they share their favourite ‘volunteer' plants, how to manage them, and simple ways to use them in borders and cut-flower arrangements for a truly low-maintenance, flower-filled garden.In this episode, discover:How to use self-seeding annuals and biennials to create a low‑maintenance, flower‑filled garden that largely looks after itselfInspired plant recommendations, from forget‑me‑nots and violas, to grasses, nasturtiums and Californian poppies Practical tips on managing self‑sowers - when to let them run, and when to thin them outWays to weave self‑seeders into borders, pots and even cracks in paving for long‑season colour, movement and structureProducts mentioned:Cerinthe major 'Kiwi Blue'https://www.sarahraven.com/products/cerinthe-major-kiwi-blueHeart's Ease (Viola tricolor)https://www.sarahraven.com/products/viola-heartseaseAnthriscus sylvestris 'Ravenswing'https://www.sarahraven.com/products/anthriscus-sylvestris-ravenswingCosmos bipinnatus 'Dazzler'https://www.sarahraven.com/products/cosmos-bipinnatus-dazzlerAmmi majushttps://www.sarahraven.com/products/ammi-majusPanicum miliaceum 'Violaceum'https://www.sarahraven.com/products/panicum-violaceumBriza maxima (Greater Quaking Grass)https://www.sarahraven.com/products/briza-maxima-greater-quaking-grassNicandra physalodeshttps://www.sarahraven.com/products/nicandra-physalodesPersicaria orientalishttps://www.sarahraven.com/products/persicaria-orientalisNasturtium 'Ladybird Rose' (Tropaeolum minus)https://www.sarahraven.com/products/nasturtium-ladybird-roseNasturtium 'Bloody Mary' (Tropaeolum minus)https://www.sarahraven.com/products/nasturtium-bloody-maryFollow Sarah: https://www.instagram.com/sarahravenperchhill/Get in touch: info@sarahraven.comShop on the Sarah Raven Website: http://bit.ly/3jvbaeuFollow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sarahravensgarden/Order Sarah's latest books: https://www.sarahraven.com/gifts/gardening-books?sort=newest

Send us a textThis is an excerpt from a Bonus Tracks episode published on the You, Me and An Album Patreon on Sept. 25, 2025. You can hear the entire episode, plus all of the other Bonus Tracks episodes, by joining the YMAAA Patreon at patreon.com/youmealbum.Dulcimer player Sam Edelston joins Al to talk about listening to albums that are off the beaten path. Whether we're listening to genres we're unfamiliar with or music that we come across unexpectedly, finding the key that allows us to enjoy that music can be a challenge. Sam and Al talk about their experiences with listening to albums on a list that Sam created, which features artists ranging from Tom Lehrer to Bobby Bare to Kazuhito Yamashita. Sam also discusses how he has discovered and reimagined music through the fretted dulcimer—and he and Al chat about his terrific dulcimer rock album Making Waves.You can keep up with Sam and his music at the following places:https://www.samthemusicman.com/@contemporarydulcimer on Instagram and YouTube@Sam.Edelston.Music on FacebookBe sure to sign up for the YMAAA Newsletter at youmealbum.ghost.io. To keep up with You, Me and An Album, please give the show a follow on Instagram at @youmealbum.0:17 Introduction: Sharing excerpts from Bonus Tracks2:55 Sam joins the show3:08 Al explains how he is approaching this episode4:36 Sam talks about why he took up fretted dulcimer7:44 “Mellow Yellow” got Sam started on his exploration of rock songs on dulcimer9:20 Sam talks about the advantages of playing a three-stringed instrument11:49 Sam explains how he varies some of the arrangements on his cover songs16:09 Sam aims to take the integration of dulcimer into rock music to another level19:33 Al didn't connect with some of the music on Sam's list24:02 Sam found each of the albums on his list in unexpected ways28:03 Hearing a cappella versions of songs sometimes gets Sam to explore the originals35:49 Sometimes record store recommendations fill in the gaps that radio listening leaves37:05 Al highlights some of the music from Sam's list that he liked the most39:09 Arranging songs for dulcimer enhances Sam's enjoyment of songs that are new to himOutro music is from “Wild Horses” by Edelston & Dulcimer.Support the show

For months of scent throughout the sunnier months, there are a whole host of nostalgic stalwarts and surprising new picks that are impossible to ignore.Every garden deserves a perfume as captivating as the 12 plants at the top of Josie and Sarah's list this week, as they laud the dozen best flowers to sow for unbeatable aroma from April through to October.In this episode, discover:How to choose standout scented plants that really earn their place for perfume and looks alikeWhich specific varieties Sarah and Josie regularly rely on, and what makes each one specialPractical when-and-how tips for sowing, planting, and positioning scented plants to get fragrance from spring right through to autumnWays to use these plants as cut flowers, including vase-life tricks and how to make small bunches scent whole roomsHow to layer scent through borders, climbers, containers, and shrubs so that every corner of the garden offers a different perfumed momentProducts mentioned:Trachelospermum jasminoideshttps://www.sarahraven.com/products/trachelospermum-jasminoidesSweet Pea 'Matucana'https://www.sarahraven.com/products/lathyrus-odoratus-matucanaNarcissus 'Actaea'https://www.sarahraven.com/products/narcissus-actaeaMatthiola incana 'Pillow Talk'https://www.sarahraven.com/products/matthiola-incana-pillow-talkLonicera periclymenum 'Graham Thomas'https://www.sarahraven.com/products/lonicera-periclymenum-graham-thomasAcidanthera murielae (syn. Gladiolus)https://www.sarahraven.com/products/acidanthera-murielaeFollow Sarah: https://www.instagram.com/sarahravenperchhill/Get in touch: info@sarahraven.comShop on the Sarah Raven Website: http://bit.ly/3jvbaeuFollow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sarahravensgarden/Order Sarah's latest books: https://www.sarahraven.com/gifts/gardening-books?sort=newest

Every year, we venture out to the Netherlands in search of the most captivating dahlias, each worthy of a spot in your garden to liven up the late-summer months.Tom Stimpson joins us again on the podcast to share their current ‘cream of the crop', from reliable classics like ‘Molly Raven' and ‘Adam's Choice', to gorgeous growers like ‘Strawberry Cream' and ‘Princess Nadine'. Join us for an episode packed with garden inspiration for any colour palette, and a glimpse into how we choose our standout favourites from a field of hundreds and thousands.In this episode, discover:How Sarah and Tom select stellar dahlias from Dutch trial fields, and the characteristics that make truly exceptional plantsVarieties that are pollinator-friendly to bring a buzz of life into the gardenHow to condition your dahlias for mighty vase lifeProducts mentioned:Dahlia 'Princess Nadine'https://www.sarahraven.com/products/dahlia-princess-nadineDahlia 'Skyfall'https://www.sarahraven.com/products/dahlia-skyfallDahlia 'Café au Lait'https://www.sarahraven.com/products/dahlia-cafe-au-laitDahlia 'Adam's Choice'https://www.sarahraven.com/products/dahlia-adams-choiceDahlia 'Polka'https://www.sarahraven.com/products/dahlia-polkaDahlia 'Strawberry Cream'https://www.sarahraven.com/products/dahlia-strawberry-creamDahlia 'Honka Pink'https://www.sarahraven.com/products/dahlia-honka-pinkDahlia 'Molly Raven'https://www.sarahraven.com/products/dahlia-molly-ravenDahlia 'Labyrinth'https://www.sarahraven.com/products/dahlia-labyrinthDahlia 'Lou Farman'https://www.sarahraven.com/products/dahlia-lou-farmanDahlia 'Break Out'https://www.sarahraven.com/products/dahlia-break-outDahlia 'Verrone's Obsidian'https://www.sarahraven.com/products/dahlia-verrones-obsidianFollow Sarah: https://www.instagram.com/sarahravenperchhill/Get in touch: info@sarahraven.comShop on the Sarah Raven Website: http://bit.ly/3jvbaeuFollow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sarahravensgarden/Order Sarah's latest books: https://www.sarahraven.com/gifts/gardening-books?sort=newest

Shane Connolly is a master of many arts, and one that he exhibits throughout the year is how to use sustainable floristry to create a sense of charm often reserved for the tiniest of tables.That's why he's in such high demand - we talk through his exciting, varied year of arranging in this week's podcast, with a look at the festive season, and a few tips to serve your own arranging in the festive season, taking inspiration from Shane's wondrous wedding displays.In this episode, discover:How Shane approaches weddings, intimate dinners, grand public events and royal occasionsWhy he favours seasonal, British-grown flowers and how he builds close relationships with growers and suppliersThe behind-the-scenes logistics of big museum dinners and public events, from long tables to thousands of tiny vases and candlesHow Shane creates sustainable, glitter-free Christmas magic, including his Marie Antoinette-inspired V&A tree and reusable decorationsProducts mentioned:Convallaria majalis (Lily of the Valley)https://www.sarahraven.com/products/convallaria-lily-of-the-valleyFollow Sarah: https://www.instagram.com/sarahravenperchhill/Get in touch: info@sarahraven.comShop on the Sarah Raven Website: http://bit.ly/3jvbaeuFollow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sarahravensgarden/Order Sarah's latest books: https://www.sarahraven.com/gifts/gardening-books?sort=newest

Whether you're nurturing a bustling city plot or a country border, there's a spot in everyone's gardens, pots and borders for beautiful, productive perennials throughout the year.Following on from last week's episode of ‘grow, cook, eat, arrange', Arthur is with us again to focus this time on perennials that are light-touch and bountiful for those of us putting together a low-maintenance garden.In this episode, discover:Perennials, shrubs, and self-seeding annuals that provide long-lasting beauty with minimal carePersonal stories, hands-on tips, and garden-tested wisdom to help you with your plant selection and garden upkeepNew and improved varieties bred for reduced invasiveness, greater disease resistance, and extended flowering seasonsPlants that attract bees and other wildlife, showcasing how low-fuss gardens can support biodiversity tooProducts mentioned:Aster x frikartii ‘Mönch'https://www.sarahraven.com/products/aster-x-frikartii-monchSalvia x jamensis 'Nachtvlinder'https://www.sarahraven.com/products/salvia-x-jamensis-nachtvlinderPhlox paniculata 'David'https://www.sarahraven.com/products/phlox-paniculata-davidGeranium 'Rozanne'https://www.sarahraven.com/products/geranium-rozanneGeranium wallichianum 'Bloom Me Away'https://www.sarahraven.com/products/geranium-wallichianum-bloom-me-awayPennisetum macrourumhttps://www.sarahraven.com/products/pennisetum-macrourumChasmanthium latifoliumhttps://www.sarahraven.com/products/chasmanthium-latifoliumStipa giganteahttps://www.sarahraven.com/products/stipa-giganteaFollow Sarah: https://www.instagram.com/sarahravenperchhill/Get in touch: info@sarahraven.comShop on the Sarah Raven Website: http://bit.ly/3jvbaeuFollow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sarahravensgarden/Order Sarah's latest books: https://www.sarahraven.com/gifts/gardening-books?sort=newest

In this episode, Dave and Jamison answer these questions: I handed in my resignation this past Monday. During the conversation, my manager confided in me that this coming Wednesday, 25% of the workforce is being laid off. For context, this is the second round of layoffs. The first round happened a year ago and was a disaster. It was announced via an internal video the night before, but the CEO forgot to mention that the affected employees had already been notified privately. This caused mass panic; thinking they were next, many experienced engineers immediately brushed up their resumes and jumped ship voluntarily. Even my skip-level manager was in the dark. Shortly after that chaos, we were acquired by an American Private Equity firm. Morale has been at an all-time low ever since, and the writing has been on the wall all year. Now I am in the awkward position of serving my three-month notice period while walking through the ruins of my company. I am the “lucky one” who quit voluntarily two days before the hammer dropped to join a different company for a massive raise and promotion, while my colleagues are about to lose their jobs. How do I navigate the next 90 days? How do I interact with the survivors who are likely furious and overworked, knowing I'm already checking out? Sincerely, Rearranging Deckchairs on the Titanic Hello! I have a bad manager, like really bad. She gets the whole team together to say “so and so is getting laid off tomorrow, or in a month, don't say anything”. She openly shares employee compensation in 1-1's, gossips about her boss and team members and takes feedback as personal attacks. Would you believe me if I said that no one trusts her? What should I do? I want to contact HR but I have never talked to HR before in my career. I know I can't tell her because engineers who have offered feedback on team dynamics, or general professionalism, get yelled in 1-1's. Is this something worth taking to HR or do I just live with it until… I get a new job? If I do say something what do I say? Do I bring up the distrust she has created amongst the team or do I keep it to the poor judgement and unprofessionalism? Do you want to write the letter for me? Yes!? Thanks!