157 pieces on sacred music, software, and building things that last.
I finished UCLA Extension's four-course Real Estate Investment & Finance certificate while owning a live rental in Cleveland. Here's what each course actually taught, and what it didn't.
5 min read
In the digital age, a musician’s online presence is no longer optional—it is essential. With audiences consuming music, discovering new artists, and engaging with their favorite performers online more than ever before, musicians must establish a well-rounded digital strategy that goes beyond a basic
17 min read
A musician’s homepage serves as the digital first impression, making it essential to craft an engaging, visually appealing layout that encourages visitors to explore further. The homepage should strike a balance between aesthetics and functionality, ensuring it communicates professionalism while ref
20 min read
In an increasingly digital world, having an online presence is non-negotiable for musicians. A well-designed website serves as a central hub where fans, collaborators, and industry professionals can connect with an artist’s work. Unlike social media, where algorithms dictate visibility, a personal w
18 min read
In today’s digital-first environment, a professional website has become an indispensable tool for classical musicians. It functions as more than just a virtual business card; it acts as a central hub where musicians can showcase their artistry, connect with audiences, and establish their reputations
23 min read
When designing a website for classical musicians, composers, or ensembles, the platform selection plays a pivotal role in balancing aesthetics, functionality, and ease of use. WordPress, Wix, and Squarespace are popular website builders tailored to different user needs, offering distinct advantages
23 min read
In an increasingly digital era, the classical music world is no exception to the undeniable shift toward online visibility. Historically rooted in live performances and physical media, classical music now faces a growing expectation to embrace digital platforms for engagement and reach. Musicians, e
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In today’s fast-evolving digital landscape, the importance of marketing for classical musicians cannot be overstated. The classical music industry, often associated with tradition and heritage, must adapt to modern promotional tools to remain competitive and connect with contemporary audiences. Leve
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Drip campaigns are a cornerstone of modern real estate marketing strategies, offering a systematic and personalized approach to nurturing leads over time. These campaigns consist of automated, pre-scheduled communications tailored to a prospect’s specific interests, behaviors, or position in the buy
19 min read
Real estate has been on my radar since the summer of 2017 when I studied to become a realtor in Cleveland, Ohio. At the time, I was finishing my music degree at the Cleveland Institute of Music, and I imagined a future where I could balance church music part-time while building a career in real esta
4 min read
The digital world moves fast, and if you're a real estate professional or music industry expert, you know that a strong online presence isn’t just optional—it’s essential.Whether you're a real estate investor looking for more leads, a property manager needing better automation, a music teacher growi
3 min read
As the new year begins, I’m setting my sights on an ambitious and exciting goal: purchasing my first investment property. This is not just any property—I’m targeting a duplex with strong cash flow potential that can set the foundation for a long and successful real estate investment career.Here’s ho
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Hard money lending represents an alternative form of financing primarily used in real estate transactions, wherein funds are secured by real property. This lending model caters to individuals or entities that require quick access to capital, often bypassing the more cumbersome traditional banking pr
17 min read
The BRRRR strategy (Buy, Rehab, Rent, Refinance, Repeat) is a powerful tool for building wealth in real estate. However, like any investment method, it comes with its challenges. Many beginners dive in headfirst, only to encounter pitfalls that cost them time, money, and confidence. In this article,
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Financing is one of the most critical decisions in any real estate transaction, and the choice between a bridge loan and a conventional loan can make or break your strategy. Both options serve specific purposes, but understanding their differences will help you determine which is the right fit for y
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If you’re dreaming of building a real estate portfolio but feel held back by limited funds or experience, the BRRRR method might be the game-changer you need. Short for Buy, Rehab, Rent, Refinance, Repeat, this strategy allows investors to recycle their capital, quickly scaling their portfolios with
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In today’s competitive real estate market, a great website isn’t just a luxury—it’s a necessity. For real estate investors, a well-designed website can act as a powerful tool to attract deals, build partnerships, and secure the capital needed to grow your business. It’s your digital storefront, show
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Real estate investing is an exciting way to build wealth, but what if your local market is too expensive or doesn’t offer the returns you’re looking for? Enter out-of-state investing with the BRRRR method—a strategy that allows you to maximize cash flow and appreciation in markets beyond your own ba
5 min read
If you're just getting started in real estate investing, you've likely heard about the BRRRR method. Standing for Buy, Rehab, Rent, Refinance, Repeat, this strategy has gained popularity for its potential to grow wealth quickly while minimizing out-of-pocket expenses. In this post, I’ll break down h
4 min read
The BRRRR method is a strategic approach in real estate investing that stands for Buy, Rehab, Rent, Refinance, and Repeat. This method allows investors to accumulate multiple properties and build substantial equity without needing significant upfront capital. Understanding each step is crucial for i
24 min read
Gaining a fundamental understanding of real estate investment is crucial for both novices and seasoned investors alike. This involves grasping the different strategies, metrics, and tools that aid in making informed decisions, ultimately unlocking opportunities in the market.
23 min read
In the highly competitive field of real estate, lead generation is a cornerstone for success. It involves attracting and converting strangers into someone who has indicated interest in a real estate company's offerings. For real estate professionals, crafting effective lead generation strategies is
22 min read
The BRRRR Method stands as an innovative strategy in real estate investment, garnering attention for its potential to generate wealth with minimal initial capital. This method represents an appealing approach for both novice and seasoned investors looking to build a scalable portfolio. As the ultima
19 min read
When I first dipped my toes into the world of real estate, the wealth of information was overwhelming. Starting my journey with UCLA Extension's Real Estate Investment Analysis Course truly opened my eyes to crucial investment fundamentals. Let me walk through some vital insights that shaped my unde
22 min readNavigating the complexities of long-distance real estate investing demands a keen understanding of various strategies and tools tailored for success. This section delves into crucial concepts and strategies vital for investors stepping into this realm.
19 min read
Cleveland, Ohio, stands as an intriguing figure in the national property market, presenting unique opportunities and challenges in real estate investment. Several characteristics define its landscape, making it a pivotal area for strategic investments. Understanding these factors is essential for st
17 min read
Real estate investing presents a unique opportunity for individuals to build wealth, secure financial freedom, and leverage the power of tangible assets. Understanding the fundamentals is crucial for aspiring investors. With various strategies, such as hard money lending and the BRRRR method, the pa
18 min read
Investing in real estate can be a lucrative venture, but success often hinges on understanding the numbers. Tracking key metrics allows investors to assess the profitability and viability of potential deals, manage existing properties effectively, and make data-driven decisions. Here are 10 essentia
3 min read
For real estate investors, accessing funding quickly can be the key to securing profitable deals. Hard money loans are a popular financing option, especially for strategies like the BRRRR method. These loans offer fast approval and flexible terms, making them a go-to choice for many investors. Howev
4 min read
The BRRRR method is a powerful strategy for real estate investors looking to build wealth by acquiring and improving properties. This acronym stands for Buy, Rehab, Rent, Refinance, Repeat, and it has become a go-to approach for those seeking to scale their portfolios efficiently. In this guide, we’
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Discover how technology is transforming real estate investing. Learn actionable tips, explore innovative tools, and follow my journey as a software engineer and investor blending tech and property to create smarter solutions for buyers, agents, and investors alike.
3 min read
As a real estate professional, you know how important it is to provide your clients with clarity and confidence when making big financial decisions. That’s why I’ve built the Mortgage Amortization Calculator Widget—a powerful, embeddable tool that you can easily integrate into your website or client
4 min read
Adding a custom iFrame widget to your Squarespace website is a great way to integrate third-party tools, interactive content, or custom applications directly into your site. Whether you're embedding a mortgage calculator, a map, or another type of widget, the process is straightforward with Squaresp
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I'm thrilled to announce the launch of my Mortgage Calculator Widget, the first product in a forthcoming suite of tech tools tailored for real estate professionals, investors, and enthusiasts. This widget is completely free to use and can be easily embedded into your website—whether it's on WordPres
4 min read
The embeddable mortgage calculator widget is designed to streamline the process for real estate professionals by offering a user-friendly, interactive tool that can be added directly to their websites. This tool allows potential homebuyers to swiftly calculate their mortgage payments based on home p
16 min read
Real estate investment can feel like a mix of art and science. On one hand, it’s about understanding neighborhoods, negotiating deals, and having a vision for a property. On the other, data and technology can provide an edge that takes much of the guesswork out of the equation.As a real estate inves
3 min read
For aspiring real estate investors, the BRRRR method—Buy, Rehab, Rent, Refinance, Repeat—offers an accessible and scalable strategy to build long-term wealth. If you're curious about real estate investing but unsure where to start, this beginner’s guide will break down the BRRRR method into actionab
3 min read
When it comes to achieving financial freedom, one of the most reliable and proven strategies is real estate investing. Whether you're a seasoned investor or just starting, taking consistent action is the key to building wealth and creating passive income. In this post, I’ll share actionable tips to
4 min read
Balancing a full-time job while pursuing real estate investing can feel like walking a tightrope, but it’s a path I’ve chosen to walk—and thrive on. My days start early, with the alarm pulling me out of bed and into my software engineering role by 7:00 am. This is where I spend most of my weekdays,
3 min read
Real estate wasn’t always on my radar as a path to financial growth. My first purchase was a condo in Charlotte, NC. At the time, it was simply a place to call home—a milestone that marked my transition into independent adulthood. Over three years, living in and managing that condo taught me more ab
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When it comes to APIs, REST and GraphQL are two of the most popular choices for developers building modern applications. Both offer unique strengths and trade-offs, so understanding the difference between them can help you choose the best one for your project. Let's explore what sets REST and GraphQ
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Investing in real estate is one of the best ways to grow wealth, and one often-overlooked advantage is depreciation. While real estate typically appreciates over time, the IRS allows investors to depreciate their properties, offering tax advantages that can improve cash flow. In this post, we’ll bre
4 min read
As I set out on my real estate investment journey, I’m thrilled to begin with a duplex in Brooklyn Centre, Cleveland. This choice was based on more than just location—Brooklyn Centre combines historic charm, valuable amenities, and new community enhancements that position it as a promising place for
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Investing in real estate is about more than just acquiring properties—knowing when and how to exit a deal is just as important. Whether you’re planning to sell, trade up, or refinance, choosing the right exit strategy can have a significant impact on your long-term returns and tax liabilities. In th
7 min read
As part of my ongoing education in real estate through UCLA Extension, I’ve recently delved deeper into one of the most critical aspects of real estate investment: financing. Understanding the variety of loan types is essential for any investor to make informed decisions. Whether you’re purchasing a
4 min read
Real estate investing is as much about understanding the financial landscape as it is about picking the right property. Whether you’re evaluating a potential buy-and-hold property or determining the profitability of a commercial project, having the right tools to analyze a deal is essential. Here ar
4 min read
As part of my journey to become a proficient real estate investor, I’ve enrolled in a Real Estate Investment Certificate program at UCLA Extension, which includes four courses.I’ve already completed the first course, Real Estate Investment Market Analysis, and I’m currently in week three of the Real
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In software engineering, especially in enterprise applications, we often face the challenge of maintaining clean architecture and ensuring separation of concerns. This becomes particularly important as applications grow larger and more complex. Two powerful concepts, MediatR and the Command Pattern,
7 min read
As I work on developing the Hymnal 1982 web app for Episcopal church musicians, I’ve chosen a tech stack that emphasizes scalability, maintainability, and flexibility. This article provides a detailed breakdown of the technologies I’m using and why they’re the right fit for this project.
7 min read
Real estate has always intrigued me, but it wasn't until I started actively educating myself on the subject that I realized its true potential as an investment strategy. After years of working as a software engineer and recently taking on real estate as a new passion, I decided it was time to make m
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I’ve been fascinated by real estate since 2017. That’s when I first dove into the world of personal finance, investing, and the FIRE (Financial Independence, Retire Early) movement, largely inspired by the Mr. Money Mustache blog. Over the years, I’ve spent countless hours learning through reading,
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In today's digital age, having an online store is essential for classical musicians looking to share their compositions, recordings, and products with a global audience. Whether you're a solo artist, chamber ensemble, or music educator, an engaging online store can help you showcase your talent, con
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In the journey of entrepreneurship, there are countless myths that can cloud our judgment and hinder our progress. One such myth is the belief that success as a business owner is solely dependent on hard work and passion. However, in "The E-Myth Revisited" by Michael E. Gerber, this myth is debunked
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In today's digital age, having a strong online presence is essential for classical musicians looking to reach a wider audience and grow their careers. One of the most effective ways to enhance your online visibility is through search engine optimization (SEO). By optimizing your website for search e
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Explore the top 10 web design trends reshaping classical music websites in 2024. From immersive visuals to interactive elements and sustainable practices, discover how classical music websites are blending timeless elegance with modern innovation to captivate audiences worldwide.
6 min read
Are you someone who's heard the terms "SQL" and "NoSQL" thrown around in tech discussions but aren't quite sure what they mean? Don't worry; you're not alone! Let's dive into the fascinating world of databases and uncover the differences between these two approaches in a way that anyone can understa
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At Classically Minded, I believe in the power of collaboration and community to elevate the classical music experience. That's why I’m thrilled to announce the launch of the Community Partners Program. This program is designed to bring together professionals from various fields who offer services ta
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My journey with Re:Build Manufacturing began in February of 2022, fresh off the heels of completing a rigorous coding bootcamp. Armed with newfound knowledge and a hunger for real-world application, I eagerly joined the ranks of this ambitious startup, ready to make my mark in the world of software
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In recent years, frontend development has undergone a revolution with the emergence of powerful frameworks. Among the leading contenders are React, Angular, and Vue.js—JavaScript frameworks that have captured the imagination of developers worldwide. In this blog post, we embark on a comprehensive co
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In the classical music industry, networking plays a vital role in advancing one's career and opportunities. While traditional networking events and conferences remain valuable, the digital landscape offers a wealth of opportunities to connect with peers, collaborators, and industry professionals. In
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Subdomains are powerful tools for personal branding and storytelling. Whether you're a solo artist, music educator, ensemble, or institution, leveraging subdomains can elevate your online presence and reinforce your unique identity in the digital landscape. As a musician and web designer, I'm here t
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In the realm of classical music, community is not just a gathering of individuals; it's a symphony of shared passion, appreciation, and support. As a classical musician, your website serves as more than just a digital presence – it's a vibrant hub where you can cultivate and nurture your community.
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In today's digital age, having a strong online presence is essential for classical musicians looking to expand their reach, connect with audiences, and advance their careers. While the traditional avenues of promotion such as concerts and recordings are still valuable, a well-designed website can se
3 min read
So, you've taken the first step in transforming your online presence by reaching out for web design services. I’m thrilled to embark on this journey with you! Wondering what happens next? Allow me to guide you through the process, from the initial inquiry to the launch of your stunning new website.
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Greetings to all classical music enthusiasts and educators! As a dedicated web designer specializing in crafting websites for the classical music community, I'm excited to share insights on how a music education blog can elevate your online presence and attract new opportunities. Join me as we explo
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Hey there, fellow music enthusiasts! It's been a minute, hasn't it? I'm thrilled to be back in your inbox, announcing the revival of a passion project near and dear to my heart: Classically Minded.For those who may not know, Classically Minded is more than just a blog; it's a celebration of the time
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In my journey, music and technology have danced together since my earliest days at Interlochen Arts Academy, where the seeds of artistry and creativity were sown. Following a rigorous education in classical music, I ventured into the realm of web design, harnessing its power to amplify my musical vo
2 min read
In the digital age, having a strong online presence is essential for classical musicians looking to connect with audiences, showcase their talents, and build a fan base. One of the most crucial components of establishing this presence is through effective web design. Your website serves as your virt
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Dear fellow classical musicians, as a dedicated member of the classical music community, I am thrilled to announce the launch of my specialized web design business crafted specifically for individuals like us. My name is Garrett, and I bring a unique blend of experience as a classical musician, soft
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The biography is the sheet music that introduces the audience to the artist behind the instrument. In this exploration, we will embark on a journey of symphonic storytelling, unraveling the art of crafting compelling musician biographies on Squarespace. Discover how a well-crafted narrative can tran
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As a web designer dedicated to enhancing the digital footprint of classical musicians, I'm thrilled to introduce our specially crafted Squarespace website templates. In this blog post, I'll delve into what sets these templates apart and why they're the perfect solution for musicians seeking an elega
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In the world of classical music, where every note carries the weight of centuries of tradition and artistry, the visual representation of a musician's online presence must be in perfect harmony with the elegance of their craft. In this exploration, we will delve into the fundamental principles of de
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Hiring the right web designer is crucial for creating a stunning online presence for your brand. Use this checklist to help you make an informed decision.
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This event will be in-person and live-streamed.Program:Allegro from Symphony No. 6 - Charles-Marie Widor (1844-1937)Hail To The Lord's Anointed - Garrett John Law (b. 1995)Toccata on Conditor Alme Siderum - Garrett John LawPrelude - Nadia Boulanger (1887-1979)Give Me Jesus - Marques L.A. Garrett (b.
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This event will be in-person and live-streamed.Program:Allegro from Symphony No. 6 - Charles-Marie Widor (1844-1937)Hail To The Lord's Anointed - Garrett John Law (b. 1995)Toccata on Conditor Alme Siderum - Garrett John LawPrelude - Nadia Boulanger (1887-1979)Give Me Jesus - Marques L.A. Garrett (b.
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Which pieces are the pinnacle of organ repertoire? Read this list to find out!10. Johanna Sebastian Bach - St. Anne Prelude and Fugue9. Healey Willan…
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Are you a composer wanting to get your music out in the world?You could try traditional publishing, but that is difficult to break intoYou could sell your music on your website, but do you don’t want to deal with orders and shippingAmazon is a great place to sell because it…
4 min read
Let’s take a look at five basic ways you can promote yourself as a classical musician.Perform as much as you canEvery live performance is an opportunity to build a connection with a new audience. Don’t take that responsibility lightly.
5 min read
These cartoons will make you chuckle…
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A Juba Dance, also known as “pattin juba” or the hambone originated in West Africa around 1840 and was first brought by slaves to Charleston, South Carolina. It is a fast-paced dance that involved stomping, slapping and patting the arms and legs, chest and cheeks.
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Four Spiritual Preludes (David Hurd)Oh! What a Beautiful City Go Down, Moses Were You There Deep River Easy on the Pedals: Hymn Tune Settings with Optional Pedal Parts (Victor Johnson) Thee We Adore O God, Our Help In Ages Past Just As I Am Festive Prelude on "A Mighty Fortress Is Our God"
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It all begins with an idea. Maybe you want to launch a business. Maybe you want to turn a hobby into something more. Or maybe you have a creative project to share with the world. Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference.
1 min read
It all begins with an idea. Maybe you want to launch a business. Maybe you want to turn a hobby into something more. Or maybe you have a creative project to share with the world. Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference.
1 min read