Rob Costlow - My Piano and More

Introducing RollingNote Piano

2012-01-20T14:31:00.001-06:00

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.

Note: There will be dozens of songs to select from and more to come (including songs by me and many other contemporary artists). More info below...

RollingNote is a universal app that supports music artists and makes it fun and easy to learn songs while playing along on your MIDI keyboard or acoustic piano. We believe everyone should be able to play piano. Beginner or expert, RollingNote is for the music lover in you.

Smash hit games like Guitar Hero and Rock Band prove that you can have tons of fun simulating instruments... but why stop there?! RollingNote uses the same interactive video game experience to teach you the skills you need and track your progress. Truly experience the joy of piano music.

Piano Instruction Has Evolved

- Learn piano on your own time (and if you take lessons, use as extra support)

- Simple scrolling notes replace sheet music

- Play the songs you love and discover new music you will love to play

Music Made Flexible

- Choose skill complexity from a progressive selection of song levels

- Preview each song and level to hear how it is intended to be played

- Adjust song tempo to play at your own pace

- Practice using left, right or both hands

Score!

- Grade and score your playing to track progress in real-time

- Share with friends, family and teachers

- Access grades, scores and manage music in your RollingNote app song library

Again, be the first to know when it launches by visiting http://www.rollingnote.com.

Thank you!

Dream it, do it

2012-01-14T09:13:00.000-06:00

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

2011-11-29T13:01:00.001-06:00

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...

2011-11-04T09:42:00.000-05:00

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

2011-09-07T14:35:00.004-05:00

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 2012. Oh, and more sheet music will be coming too!

Until next time...

Persevere

2011-08-22T15:04:00.007-05:00

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

2011-08-03T17:10:00.003-05:00

Yah, it's been awhile since my last blog post. However, for good reason. I will return. Stay tuned....

Letting Go to Seek

2010-12-24T09:47:00.001-06:00

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

2010-11-18T15:54:00.009-06:00

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

2010-06-14T21:27:00.009-05:00

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, elect ronica, 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).

Do You Feel It?

2010-04-06T19:23:00.002-05:00

If you never start to feel the burn, you're not doing hard enough. There is no trying...

In life, fitness, family and career, I find success after I feel the burn. Success = do ... really do. Doing is never finding a reason to settle. Once I make it to a place I could compromise, I set the next goal.

Communicate

2010-04-05T19:31:00.000-05:00

Whether alone or surrounded, we cannot progress without communication.

Are you communicating with yourself ... with others ... your soul ... your maker?

Without Rights

2010-01-18T05:57:00.009-06:00

"A right delayed is a right denied." ~ Martin Luther King, Jr.

István Takács, a representative of the HCLU (Hungarian Civil Liberties Union - a human rights watchdog NGO), recently contacted me as he needed music for a documentary on the life of Roma people in the east side of his country.

Some background:

"During the aftermath of murders in Tatárszentgyörgy, Péter Juhász and Bence Békés began visiting villages around Ózd to support the Romani people living in the area. With advocacy tools provided by the HCLU, they joined in helping these communities advocate for themselves and fight discrimination more effectively. We have documented their work, this film is the first piece in documenting their work and revealing what they found."

More details behind the documentary can be found on http://tasz.hu/en/roma-issues/without-rights. The film can be viewed below in English subtitles.

Without Rights from Hungarian Civil Liberties Union on Vimeo.

"At the center of non-violence stands the principle of love." ~ Martin Luther King, Jr.

Support from Afar

2010-01-15T18:40:00.002-06:00

As I sit in my chair with my coffee and air conditioning, I'm feeling quite spoiled and likely a bit too comfortable. The disaster in Haiti keeps coming to mind as I attempt to get my day-to-day projects completed.

I must remain where I am at this time, but this chair doesn't have to stop me from helping those in need. Large scale events such as this earthquake are always a solid reminder that there are continuously people in need worldwide, be it on a small, medium or large scale. We can provide support and help people wherever our location.

No matter how busy we are today or the priorities we must regularly attend to, there is always time for one or more of the following:

Pray - A positive thought, a minute of meditation, a shout out to God. Whatever the flavor, we all have at least a moment to send some positive energy where it is needed.

Give if you can - For example, eBay's Giving Works program is a great way to buy, sell or directly donate to more than 40 organizations working to support the Haiti disaster.

20 Minute Run

2010-01-13T19:24:00.003-06:00

Thanks to Roland at the The 20 Minute Runner Podcast for featuring my music in episode #35.

Check out his site.

2010 Creed

2010-01-01T18:35:00.000-06:00

Some poetry/lyrics that came to mind as I start 2010. Perhaps these words will be placed in a song this year.

shout
get it out
let go
be the flow

live
believe and give
be free
shape your destiny

combine
intertwine
we're family
friends not enemies

love
look above
fly so high
joy is close by

feel
this world is real
respect
and nurture you will get

Happy Holidays!

2009-12-23T18:46:00.027-06:00

Santa Potato Head interrupted me this week while I was laying down some new riffs for a mix allMeadow and I are working on. I can't continue my vibe with him staring at me (he freaks me out). :P Regardless, it's time for a break.

In all seriousness, Happy Holidays from my family to yours!

Family: The joy, the grief, the longing, the needing space, the births, the firsts, the letting go, the reunions ... the ubiquitous embrace.

(My girls, Madeline and Eleanor)

Winterpause

2009-12-22T14:45:00.002-06:00

Thanks to the iSightseeing Podcast (first German video podcast) for featuring "Forbidden" in their Winterpause episode.

Nourish America

2009-12-08T09:05:00.003-06:00

I recently reached out to Nourish America. They are a great organization and in need of donations more than ever. The following message was written by Charlotte (at Nourish America) for my December newsletter.

Nourish America provides daily nutrition to children by providing them with nourishing foods and nutritional supplements. Why? With unemployment over 17% in America, many children are malnourished. Malnourished children are too tired to focus in school, are uninterested in play and have low self-esteem, lacking the hope and motivation to succeed in life. Giving these children the high quality nourishment they need can quickly change them. Their bodies and minds make quick use of new nutrients and rev into a higher level of function creating energy, joy and a sense of well-being. Through Nourish America, providing nutrition to one individual in need costs only ten cents per day. And 94% of each donation goes directly to our programs! There are millions who need nutritional support during the present economic crisis. Nourish America welcomes your support during this Holiday season and invites you to help improve the lives of our neighbors in need with daily nutrition that will increase their energy, their immune strength and their ability to face their challenges. Happy Holidays!!

www.nourishamerica.org

Crossroads

2009-12-03T19:06:00.000-06:00

Image by Swamibu via Flickr

To say the least, 2009 has been a crazy and tough year for everyone. Watching and reading stories from across the nation last Thanksgiving week was a strong reminder of the economy's impact, creating a crossroads for many people. It's so easy to be fearful and negative and then swim in it. However, the exact opposite was displayed in many of the stories.

To follow the example from the many stories of people facing adversity, now is a time of opportunity. A time to expose hidden talents, dreams and goals. A time for change. As I thought about myself and others contemplating a resolution, the following thoughts came to me ... A soul with courage negates fear. Nothing can make you yield but yourself. Let your soul be your compass. As Plato once so eloquently put it, "Nothing in the affairs of men is worthy of great anxiety."

We also can't forget to let loose at times. I see it as a requirement in life. Get the negative out and revive. We all have a freak flag. Don't be shy to let it fly once in awhile. Let go. You won't regret it. :)

A Day of Thanks

2009-11-26T09:05:00.001-06:00

On Thanksgiving my deepest thanks are for family, health, passion, opportunity, change, those helping to make a difference for people in need, and my friends and fans, a key source of my creative inspiration.

To Tell a Story

2009-11-24T19:57:00.013-06:00

Image via Wikipedia

Q. Must a story be written in prose, meter or rhyme, when so much narrative seeks to be unveiled from strings?

A. Of course not, but I do find many people are prone to think certain instruments as background or solely meant for accompaniment. I encourage these thinkers to discover how much emotion pureness can deliver. Often times as well, it's other instruments and voices that accompany a string, brass, woodwind or percussion instrument. If you're a skeptic, close your eyes and really listen next time you hear an instrumental song.

A little Strings 101 ...

There are three groups of string instruments:

Harps - the strings are contained within a frame
Lutes - the strings are supported by a neck and a bout ("gourd")
Zithers - the strings are mounted on a body

There are also three playing styles:

Plucked - like a guitar or harp
Bowed - like a violin or cello
Struck - like the piano or hammered dulcimer

I'm writing this post in hope to help more stories be told; however, strings are not the only method to tell a meaningful story. Everyone has their own voice, be it in the form of a musical instrument, hand, or spoken exclamation.

In college I took soprano saxophone lessons as well a voice class. I was actually a member of the university choir for two years to add to my 4 years of high school choir. I've also written my fair share of poetry. However, the piano, since my discovery at the age of 5, is the outlet that I can best tell a story.

Who knows, I may actually record while I'm singing along sometime. Only tomorrow will tell. Heck, I just released an electronica album ... but the accompaniment is not the piano. ;)

Courage

2009-11-16T21:51:00.001-06:00

Several people on Twitter really inspired me today. Check out those I'm following to see a few of them.

"Remember that when you leave this earth you can taken nothing of what you have received, but only what you have a given: a full heart, enriched by honest service, love, sacrifice, and courage." ~ Saint Francis of Assisi

Going Mental

2009-11-01T17:38:00.003-06:00

Thanks to Jason at the Mental Nomad Podcast for featuring music from Switch On in episode #142.

Check out his site.

Time

2009-11-01T08:56:00.000-06:00

"The best thing about the future is that it comes only one day at a time." ~ Abraham Lincoln