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ATHENS ORACLE

The official student news site of Athens Drive High School

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Max Gowan: Senior Musician

Senior+Max+Gowan+preforms+at+Saxbys+Coffee+on+Hillsborough+Street.
Senior Max Gowan preforms at Saxby’s Coffee on Hillsborough Street.

Athens Drive Senior, Max Gowan, has been developing his musical abilities since he was eight years old. The Athens Drive Oracle Staff sat down with Max to ask him a few questions about his musical background and interests.

1. When and why did you start playing?

When I was eight years old my dad called me into his office to teach me guitar. After that point, I started taking lessons from my dad’s teacher. Later, I heard a few songs by Pink Floyd, my dad’s favorite band, and wanted to follow in their path! I’ve been a music nerd ever since.

2. Which instruments do you play?

I play guitar, bass guitar and I took a year of cello. I’m hoping to pick up the cello again soon.

3. What was the first song(s) you learned guitar?

The first song I learned was “Smoke on the Water” by Deep Purple.

4. Is your family musical?

“My dad is a little bit, because he got me into music. But other than that, not really. My very distant family is pretty musical though!”

5. Describe your family member’s musical interests and abilities.

My dad knows a ton about music because he was a DJ in the 70’s. He plays a little bit of guitar. Because of him, I’ve been exposed to a ton of great music. He introduced me to some artists that are still my favorites.

6. Which famous musicians do you admire? Why?

My favorite songwriter ever is Elliot Smith. He inspires me to be a better musician, and the guy is a genius. John Mayer is really good too.

7. Which famous musicians have you learned from?

Elliot Smith; because let’s face it, the guy is a genius, like I already said. Bob Dylan was a huge influence on me for sure. But my favorite band by far is Pink Floyd.

8. Who was your first teacher? Other teachers?

My dad started my lessons with Richard Fitzgerald when I was eight. I still take lessons from the same guy! He’s awesome.

9. Describe your first instrument.

It was an old, really crappy acoustic guitar. I still have it and totally love the thing. It’s a great memory to keep around.

10. What are your fondest musical memories?

The best show I’ve ever seen was performed by a band called Delta Ray from Durham. I saw them play at a music festival one time and it was the greatest experience. They made me want to start playing solo stuff.

11. Do you perform in public? What was your first gig?

My first gig was when I played at a bar called “The Pour House” when I was 14. I was in a band with my good friend, Dylan Donegan. But more recently, I played at a coffee shop called “Saxby’s” and it was awesome.

12. Do you get nervous before a performance? How do you handle mistakes during a performance?

I get really nervous before I perform, but I really enjoy that feeling. That sounds weird, but I love it. If I make a really bad mistake, I just laugh at them and make it enjoyable for the audience. It it’s not noticeable, I just keep playing!

13. What advice would you give to beginners who are nervous?

If you’re doing what you love then it doesn’t matter what other people think. Just be excited to play and have fun. Don’t worry about mistakes you might make. Worry doesn’t empty the future of its struggles, it empties your now of its strengths.

14. Do you attend sessions? What makes a good session?

I still go to lessons with the same teacher I’ve had all of my life. It’s a really great session if he tells me something that shocks me. For example, if he points out something I thought I was doing well, I love that; like if my views are questioned.

15. Do you teach music?

I do! I teach one of my good friend’s little sister how to play guitar. It’s a really cool and different experience.

 

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