PorchBoard . . . what?!

The word is “PorchBoard.”  Or, I guess that’s two words acting like one.  Either way, have you ever heard of it?  Me neither . . . until about a week ago.  I am glad I did though, ‘cause it opened my mind up to a brand new concept with a host of opportunities attached.

I talked with Nadene Isackson, who originated the PorchBoard with Bill Stevens.  Their concept was to create something that a solo performer could use to bring an effective, low frequency beat to their performance.  They accomplished their goal by making a real-time analog instrument that produces that low bass drum feel, similar to how performers of old would stomp on their porches while playing.  Hence . . . porch - board; and this isn’t a ‘bored’ that puts you to sleep either.  This ‘board’ is simply set on the ground, plugged into a sub-woofer or amplification system, and then you’re ready to tap ‘till your hearts content.  It’s practically the only instrument of its kind to bring such a beat and life to one’s performance. 

Before Nadine branched off to do the “porch-work” with her buddy Bill, she had been working at the other end of the spectrum as a banker.  After being in the money for a while, Nadene decided to work at a Funeral Home in order to relieve some stress.  No, I’m just kidding . . . about the stress part; not the Funeral Home.  She might’ve been stressed, but I wasn’t there.  Never mind.  Anyway, she eventually met her partner, and the rest is history.

Originally created to enhance their musical substance abuse prevention program for kids, CHOICES, the PorchBoard has taken off in ways Bill and Nadine never thought it would.  They found an amazing carpenter, Dean Dwyer, who has provided some great options as far as types of woods and styles.  They even made a deal with Bic America to ship a hugely discounted sub-woofer to you if you need one.  The PorchBoard Team have also found that sub-woofers are great for getting that low bass sound and effect.

Not only do most guitar players and musicians want a PorchBoard one when they hear it, but even the professional players use them.  Names like Jeff Carson, Fruitland Jackson, Brad Paisley, and Neil McCoy all use the porchboard.  Nadine was even telling me how she got a call from her beloved John Sebastian from “The Lovin’ Spoonful” just to tell her that he used the PorchBoard in one of his songs!  What a cool call to get, Huh?!

Well, hopefully I answered all your questions about the Porcheboard.  If I didn’t, be sure to go to www.porchboard.com to get all the information that’ll satisfy your needs.  Download the audio/video of it being used.  I promise you’ll get a ‘kick’ out of it!  They’re relying on friends and supporters to spread the word about this wonderfully valuable instrument . ……. So do it!  

            All my best!! –

                                                                                                                        Ross M.