News
March Madness
Wed 27th Mar, 2013 I've been meaning to blog regularly, and here I am typing my second post of 2013. Hmm... I do have some solid justification. I shall disclose.
To start, the Indiana Hoosiers (my Alma mater) are hard at work trying to give me and my fellow alumni a nervous breakdown. What a season! It's been 10+ years since I've watched so much basketball. Excited to see how the Hoosiers take on the Orangemen tomorrow night in Sweet 16 action. Go Big Red!
Moving on...
I'm working on a new album! OK, so I've said this a few times the past couple years. :) The fact is I'm putting a little more time in now (I've been distracted by another project, which I'll soon discuss in a separate blog post). I can't believe it's been almost 5 years since my last solo album. This time around is a bit different than the last. I'm obviously taking my time with this one. I really want to deliver something more meaningful. For now let's say the project will be more rich, whole, and may take on more than one form. Is that vague enough?
I recently sent my buddy allMeadow a new riff to play around with. I feel it's quit catchy, and we should have a solid remix to share anytime now.
I have been traveling a bit, and was recently down at SXSW (Austin, TX). Good times. This was an educational and networking visit for me. I'd really like to perform the next time around. BTW - Any podcast lovers out there? I got to spend a little time with C.C. Chapman (see photo). He's a truly great guy and long time supporter of my music.
My newly 6-year-old (Madeline) started piano lessons! She's a natural. This girl is going to crush anything that I've accomplished when she comes of age. I mean it. So proud of her! She has a solid contemporary teacher, who will be exploring and instructing beyond classical music. Her mom and I help her practice. I'm trying to keep some distance, so she has no pressure. My reasoning is that any form of art is best delivered with genuine passion.
Before I sign off, I must ask, is it really almost April? The continued cold weather tells me otherwise. You know something is wrong when your 3-year-old tells you "this is the worst spring ever." Yep, this literally (and randomly) came out my Ellie's mouth today. :) The fam and I are hanging out for a few days at our place in Sauk County, Wisconsin. Great place to reflect, relax and get in some quality time together.
Have a great day!
CC Chapman and me
Spring, where are you? I implore you to show your warm face!
New Year, New Memories
Tue 1st Jan, 2013 Happy New Year!
This photo is of my Grandmother Eleanor, who passed away in 2012. Simply put, great memories remain with me. When I visited her as a child, she always encouraged me to play piano and be creative (and she put up with the crazy noise while I learned the fundamentals).
If you're reading, I wish you a fulfilling 2013, receive much inspiration and support, and find a way to give from what's been given to you. Live and be well...
"Goodbyes" and "Sleepaway" Sheet Music
Sun 2nd Dec, 2012 Happy first week of December! A couple new items arrived in time for the Holidays. Sheet music for "Goodbyes" and "Sleepaway" is now available in Rob's store!
Gift or get "Goodbyes"
Gift or get "Sleepaway"
Giving (Daily) Thanks
Sun 11th Nov, 2012
Stating the obvious, I often find having no agenda is a great muse to start winding down and focus. That is, going with the flow and clearing my mind to enjoy and take in the moments. (Yes, this is often a longer process for me to begin than I care to admit.) Ultimately, I desire to get to a state of unforced momentum. So I don't miss the little sparks of inspiration...the powerful subtlety and result of a single expression or image.
Well, I'm...
Moving forward, I shall do my best to reflect more frequently on this blog. To keep my priorities in check. To center on the good and how I can use it to make tomorrow even better. There is always daily thanks to be had after you see the sun rise...and set.
Bliss: for my wife, Melissa
Tue 2nd Oct, 2012 "Bliss" Sheet Music by Rob Costlow
Thirteen years ago I performed this song (well, part of it) for the first time to a very beautiful, caring, creative, funny, and intelligent young bride from the Chicago suburbs. Happy anniversary to the love of my life...may true bliss always be with you, Melissa.
One Big Family
Tue 11th Sep, 2012 Desiring peace in memory of the victims and heroes of 9/11. Never forget. We are one big family...
Another First of Firsts
Thu 23rd Aug, 2012 My oldest girl (Madeline) went off to her first day of Kindergarten today. Unbelievable! I was just sitting in the delivery room two seconds ago... The Reconstruction album was inspired by this awesome young lady. In her honor, the album is free for download today. Learn lots baby girl (so studious in your glasses)! Download: http://robcostlow.bandcamp.com/album/reconstruction
Madeline's first day of Kindergarten!
The All New RollingNote Piano App
Tue 7th Aug, 2012 RollingNote v1.1.0 is now available! This piano app is for all ages and skill levels, making it fun and easy to learn songs while playing along on your piano or MIDI keyboard.
RollingNote Piano App > What's new?
- In-app song library - including songs by me :)
- Etudes (and finger hints) for Major Keys including Chords, Scales, Cadences, Inversions and Arpeggios
- Improved MIDI support
Download it FREE for iPad!
Be Active
Wed 1st Aug, 2012 Even if my blog doesn't always show it, I am consistently active. Suppose I need to document more, eh? :) Regardless, lots going on and many updates to come this fall regarding new music efforts, business ventures, etc. Stay tuned...
"Fresh activity is the only means of overcoming adversity." ~ Johann Wolfgang von Goethe
In Business and in Life...
Fri 8th Jun, 2012 "Do unto others as you would have them do to you." This is one of the oldest notions know to man. And, it's certainly a constant battle for any of us to truly live down on a daily basis. Deceit, selfishness and greed lurks, and sometimes we don't even realize we've violated the notion. Stay awake. Fight the good fight.
In today’s constantly evolving world, survival stems from a meaningful mission, relentless drive, and strong, interconnected relationships.
Support each other. Mentor each other. Love each other.
Happy 3rd Birthday Ellie!
Tue 8th May, 2012 Happy 3rd Birthday to sweet, caring Ellie who isn't happy unless everyone around her is smiling! You're growing up so fast (baby) girl. You and your sister (Madeline) are amazing and bring so much joy.
Ellie loves to swing
"I see who I want to be, in my daughter's eyes." ~ Martina McBride
Until We Meet Again
Sat 14th Apr, 2012 My wife and I named our youngest daughter after amazing Grandma Eleanor. Yesterday at 95 years old, Grandma passed away. She led an incredibly giving, respectful, wise and loving life. She taught me patience, God's word, good health, and always encouraged me (especially my music). So thankful for the time we had with you Grandma. Miss you and love you. Until we meet again...
"Have patience, have patience, don't be in such a hurry."
Grandma Eleanor with baby Eleanor (Ellie)
Introducing the New RobCostlow.com
Sat 17th Mar, 2012 It's been 10 years since I started recording music (surreal!). I thought it was time for RobCostlow.com to get a little makeover. I'm looking forward to many more years of creating music. Thanks for all of your support!
Music is a great self-development outlet. For musicians and students of music, the classic instruments are great tools to build character, discipline and creativity. Music is universal. It can turn a bad attitude upside down, take your stress away, make the party, marry two lovers, and be the soundtrack of your life.
"If music be the food of love, play on." ~ William Shakespeare
"One good thing about music, when it hits you, you feel no pain." ~ Bob Marley
KONY 2012 - WATCH THE FILM
Fri 9th Mar, 2012 Invisible Children is leading a great mission that needs our support. Despite any controversy you may have heard, this is a true humanitarian effort that needs attention. Stop Joseph Kony. Help end the violence and bring peace. Please share and consider other ways how you can help.
Joseph Kony is the world’s worst war criminal. KONY 2012 is a 24-minute film that explains everything he’s done and how he can be stopped. This year. #KONY2012
Video link: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y4MnpzG5Sqc
Learn to Play "I Do" and Other Songs
Tue 14th Feb, 2012 Happy Valentine's Day!
What a great day to officially launch the new project I've been working on, RollingNote.com. You can play music like never before... Per my last post, RollingNote is an interactive app that teaches anyone (beginner or expert) how to play piano. It is the first piano instruction app to use scrolling notes and progressive levels to teach songs and grade playing in real-time. Via Mac, Windows or iPad, simply follow and play along to songs on a MIDI keyboard or acoustic piano.
In light of Valentine's Day, "I Do" is the first of my songs available on RollingNote. Simply visit RollingNote.com to install the Player app and get songs to play. There are many songs to choose from, and much more to come! You can download "I Do" and learn the story behind the song at http://www.rollingnote.com/i-do-basic.html.
Happy playing!
Introducing RollingNote Piano
Fri 20th Jan, 2012 Happy New Year!
I wanted to let you know about a new and unique piano application I have been working on with a friend. It is called RollingNote, and it will help people of all ages and skill levels learn to play piano songs in a meaningful and modern way. It is launching very soon on Mac, Windows and iPad! Be the first to know when it launches by visiting http://www.rollingnote.com.
Thank you!
Dream it, do it
Sat 14th Jan, 2012 When you're asleep, believe. When you wake, believe. When you're out and about, believe. For... Dreaming is believing. Getting out of bed is believing. Doing is believing.
Dream it. Believe it. Do it.
New Music and Holiday Cheer
Tue 29th Nov, 2011 Happy Holidays!
Is it really the end of the year?! Good thing everyday can be a holiday. That's how I like to think about it. Each day (and all things) given to us is a gift. These thoughts are showcased in my latest release, which was created from reflections on the holidays, nostalgic moments, chasing dreams, and celebrating life. I hope you enjoy the new music and have a blessed and peaceful holiday season.
Reunion - EP Now Available
allMeadow and I (AKA the transatlantic electro-chill duo) are thrilled to be back with a serving of inter-genre mixes. We have created a unique musical bond over the past several years. Reunion is the latest example, which is a downtempo holiday EP intended to be enjoyed year-round. Although starting with a trip back to "Forbidden" lane, this album contains all new melodies and riffs I recorded for allMeadow's mixing sandbox.
If you are a pure piano lover at heart, I highly encourage you to take a listen and preview the album. Regardless, I intend to record and release a new solo album in 2012.
The 4-track EP is now available on iTunes and BandCamp. Coming soon to all digital music networks (including Magnatune.com). BTW - The EP contains a new "Rolling Thunder" mix. You can download the original mix on BandCamp.
Holiday Gift Ideas
Autographed CDs: Available for Sophomore Jinx, Woods of Chaos, and Reconstruction. Autographs can be personalized for the recipient, so be sure to leave a note with your order. Order now.
Sheet Music: Available for "Bliss," "Forbidden," "I Do," "Meant to Be," "Not Alone," and "Woods of Chaos." Sheet music arrives in PDF format to your email. You can print and hand deliver or forward on to the intended recipient. Order now.
Digital Downloads: Amazon and iTunes make it easy to gift albums or individual tracks to friends and family. Simply select "Gift this album" from the buy link (on iTunes, use the down arrow | on Amazon, the link is on the right side of the page).
Thanks for your support!
Until next time...
A Smile a Day...
Fri 4th Nov, 2011 Today is a blessing. So, smile lots... it's contagious (so are attitudes, so make it something attractive). :)
"If you don't get everything you want, think of the things you don't get that you don't want." ~ Oscar Wilde
2011 Updates
Wed 7th Sep, 2011 Greetings Fans!
I hope this update finds you well, practicing optimism and living your inspirations. If you are like me and need a nudge from time to time, I highly recommend you get a copy of A Philosopher's Notes by Brian Johnson.
To say the least, it has been a challenging 2011 for many people around the world. Here at home for me in the United States, the 10th anniversary of September 11 is upon the country. In light of optimism, let us all continue resilience worldwide and keep moving forward (see my post on Perseverance).
EP Coming Soon
I have been working on some new melodies, which I plan to send to my favorite collaboration and mixing expert, allMeadow. Stayed tuned for an EP featuring some electro-chill remixes. BTW - Check out a couple of our previously unreleased mixes finally available for download at robcostlow.bandcamp.com.
about.me Fall Promotion
Please vote for me to be the face of about.me on a NYC Times Square billboard. Who knows, I might get to perform! Visit about.me/robcostlow to vote on my profile (top right of page). Thanks for your support!
New Album in the Works
It is time to crank out (and record) some more compositions. I am in the creative stages of a new solo piano album. Given all wants and needs move forward, this will be a very unique project. My goal is to release the album in 2013. Oh, and more sheet music will be coming too!
Until next time...
Persevere
Mon 22nd Aug, 2011 Perseverance and faith, the end all be all(s) of achievement. Both arguably intrinsic, yet often left idle. Ignorant are those who never discover, nor see light in the smallest of steps forward.
Never lose sight of what's important to you. Hold steady. You're closer today than you were yesterday.
"The great majority of men are bundles of beginnings." ~ Ralph Waldo Emerson
Blog Break
Wed 3rd Aug, 2011Yah, it's been awhile since my last blog post. However, for good reason. I will return. Stay tuned....
Letting Go to Seek
Fri 24th Dec, 2010 Sitting here a week before the end of 2010, I'm recalling the year and recognizing I have not fully carried out my 2010 creed. I've had a hard time letting go, particularly of things past. From the moments of genius (give thanks, pat yourself on the back and keep going) to the not so genius (forgive yourself) to the out of control (seek help from a higher power), letting go is a must. We must learn (not forget) from the past, really be present for the meaningful moments, and live for the future. We cannot control everything in our lives, be it business, people, or the car we do or don't drive. However, we can choose how to make use of the trials and joys life brings us.
Professionally and personally, 2010 has been one of my most challenging years. A new city, home, colleagues, friends, ideas, and plans with unknown outcomes. A whole new network, but actually an extension of my existing network. These are additional resources on my path in life. That's the key difference in how one can move forward. We can either jump right in and take advantage of what's been made available to us, or approach (and many times avoid) new opportunities with caution. This is where we must let go. Safety is always near, whether you see it or not. Our faith, friends, family, and soul are there to guide and support us.
Be bold. Let go of what holds you back. Fear is a contagious, dark, unproductive, and empty resolution. Holding on to negatives is a disease of self destruction. Seek wisdom and opportunity. Infect your network with hope. Think how your actions and decisions affect others, not just yourself. Reciprocate the lessons and positive support you receive and use it to fuel your passions in life.
For seeking a solution to challenges, mishaps, and disbelief there is a reward ... knowing you did not give in to an excuse, cynicism, or deceit.
My Social Hiatus
Thu 18th Nov, 2010 I felt it appropriate to post an update, as my fans deserve to know I'm still around. :)
If it hasn't been apparent, I have been on intentional hiatus for some time from regular blogging as well as status updates via Twitter and Facebook.
Why? I became a father almost four years ago (of the precious girls in the photo!). At that place in time I knew my life had changed forever. Everything would be different. Sacrifices needed to be made. Priorities changed. However, the music did not (nor has since) stopped.
As a parent I've been creatively inspired more than ever. I've been wanting to make my business grow and at the same time keep balance with my family and career passions. It was all a matter of time... I've just begun a partnership with a great manager (Matt Bucher) and agent here in Chicago. We've had numerous discussions and feel a great synergy on how we can work together. This will be an ever-evolving relationship. We trust there are many great developments and experiences to be had around my music as well as other artists we plan to work with.
There will be more social updates to come. Some quite regular, and I'm sure some short hiatuses as well. ;)
Be well and THANK YOU for being on the journey with me. All my fans are truly appreciated and a core inspiration for me to keep moving forward musically!
Best Music for the Road
Mon 14th Jun, 2010 Yah yah, I know, long time no blog post. What's with the lame and staggered communication (I ask myself)?! :| I'm working on a plan to change this bad habit. Regardless, amongst many things keeping me busy lately, I've been driving quite a bit. So, I thought it appropriate to address the specific music that helps me stay alert on the road.
Trance/Techno/House - Whether you love it or hate it, you won't fall asleep (OK ... not guaranteed, but a safe bet).
Instrumental - That is, electronica, instrumental rock, or whatever doesn't make you nod off. Also great for making up your own words and/or getting nostalgic. ;)
80s - Can't go wrong with pop synth as well as music gods such as U2, The Police, and INXS.
Early 90s Arrivals - Blues Traveler, Nirvana, Pearl Jam, Stone Temple Pilots and Soundgarden always keep me jammin'.
To close, there is always the latest and great music from my fave non-evil music site, Magnatune.com. Lots of great electronica and rock.
BTW - I'll admit there are a couple (overplayed) songs rotating on my iPod. My 3 1/2 yr old's favorite "I Gotta Feeling" from the Black Eyed Peas and "Lovers in Japan" from Coldplay (which I'm actually performing at a wedding this weekend).