We all have our favorite artists and genres of music. It's music that we know well, and are comfortable with. Like an old friend, it makes us feel good, safe and warm. But if that's all we listen to, we are missing out on all that the world of music has to offer.

For aspiring musicians, and everyone who loves music, expanding our musical awareness can be an eye-opening experience. Yes, it can be awkward, like a blind date. You might need to take it slow, and get familiar with the new sounds at first. But if you give it a chance, you might just find the love of your life!

 Dr. Ryan Thielman, professional trumpet player, and teacher at Music House School of Music, is ready to help you discover new music to listen to. Ryan suggests listening to several of these artists, then when you find something you like, buy the music (don't download for free). "Owning music is an investment in one's self," he believes. He offers these suggestions:

For rockers who want to get into harmonically deep music that still has a ton of energy, check out some fusion music:

• Brecker Brothers
• Mahavishnu Orchestra
• Chick Corea
  
  

For drummers, and everyone interested in rhythmic based music, check out this Latin American music:

• La Fania All Stars
• Tito Puente
• Celia Cruz
  
  

To hear some modern funk, check out:

• Black Joe Lewis and The Honeybears
  
  

If you'd like to listen to modern, cutting-edge jazz or improvisation-based piano music, listen to:

• Hiromi

 
He also says it's important to experience live music, "Seeing live music is just as important as listening to music. Go to venues, see lots of bands, and experience a wide variety of music to see what you like the best."

"Seeing live music is just as important as listening to music. Go to venues, see lots of bands, and experience a wide variety of music to see what you like the best."

In search of other local venues with live music? Here are a few links to check out:

• Finding KC
• Blues Lover's Calendar
• The Pitch/Music
• The Kansas City Star Events Calendar
  

You can also check out these great jazz venues that have their events calendars online: 

• The Phoenix
• The Blue Room at the American Jazz Museum 
  
• The Majestic
• Green Lady Lounge
  

Whether you are a beginner, or already have some experience, Music House is the
 place for your musical journey. 

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Terri comes to Music House with extensive experience in business management. At Music House she spends her time working to make the client experience the best it can be.