Tamara V: The Past
This past is a bit of a paradox. These pictures remind me of some of the most character-building and some of the most enjoyable times I’ve had during my musical journey. When I collect my feelings, I am so appreciative for the wonderfully supportive people in my life and for the opportunities I’ve had to communicate and connect through music.
I was given an acoustic guitar and learned a few songs that I sang in student unions and bars in college. As I added more songs to my repetoire, I added more venues. I started writing songs at fifteen and occasionally would sing them in public.
“The Shades” was the name of my 80’s band before 80’s bands became retro. Pictured is Jim Ware, Bob Ahrendt, and Chip Quane. Popular music had evolved away from acoustic and folk sounds so I set down the guitar and picked up the keyboards. The Shades worked steadily in the suburbs of Chicago, having some great fun together and many 4:00 a.m. chocolate malts with our scrambled eggs.
I took a short hiatus to enjoy being mom to my son, Brennan. I would often sit on the floor next to him and practice songs while he tinkered with his toys.
I began to build a local tour schedule of bookstores, coffee shops, and taverns in the Milwaukee to Chicago areas, just me and my guitar.
This is the picture I used for my promotional and booking materials.
I had the privilege of working with very talented people on several projects. Joining the venue circuit with me were guitarist, Jimi Sellars, and percussionist, James Kamanski. It was a beautiful challenge to be able to fine-tune my songwriting by performing with Jimi and James.
My brother, Tim Hort led the band, "The Radio Hour" out of Chicago. I often made guest appearances with the band.
Mick Ramsdell, a great friend and musician, began joining me for guest spots on a few cover songs during each set. As the setlist grew, we became “Pierce and Ramsdell”, an acoustic duet.
“The Tamara Pierce Band” was formed when Mick and I were joined by Aaron Rimkus on bass, and Brennan Pierce, my young and talented son on the djeme and cajone.
We had some great ink along the way.
We played both cover and originals shows at amazing venues spanning from Chicago to Milwaukee to Madison. The most memorable experience was our two hour showcase at the Summerfest Music Festival in Milwaukee in 2006. Please check out the slideshow gallery of this incredible day!
Working in several studios with co-producer and sound engineer, Jake Robinson, I completed my first CD in 2003.
Caught Looking Out features the award-winning original song, "Hey Bobby!"
Our band was featured on radio stations such as WILL in Kenosha, WLIP in Kenosha, and WMSE in Milwaukee.