I was in the bath this morning practicing. Luke came to the door and asked if everything was okay. “Yes”, all was well. I was practicing my yodeling. Yes it sounded like I was dying but I’m gonna get it someday! The affable, energetic and sweet Maura O’Brien has gotten me going by giving me a yodeling lesson.

The first I heard yodeling was in Switzerland when I was 7. My parents bought me some lederhosen and an Alp horn but none of it went to my voice, if you know what I mean. If you don’t, you’re probably normal. I’ve heard yodeling a few times on records and live. but not much. Once I heard it and it sounded like the person was a turkey being throttled. I’m not even that good yet.

When the O’Briens stayed with us they went downtown to play music like we do. Santa Cruz is a good place to busk. Their kids joined us when we played and visa versa. Anyway, the first time I watched them I was taken back to hear this power house housed in this petite young body just belting out songs and yodeling too. Her brother is a champion yodeler and great singer too. The whole family is awesome.

Kyle gave Maura a throat singing lesson and as I said Maura gave me a yodeling lesson. Watch it and give it a try. Be ready for it to sound bad for awhile. I equate it to trying to learn to sing harmony. It takes time but then it kicks in. I told Maura that she and Kyle can do a concert. She would yodel and he would throat sing. She said “That’d clear ‘em out”. Throadelling . Stay tuned, and meanwhile get in your shower or car and yodel away.

Thank you Maura!