This Friday, April 19, Auburn's Sundilla Acoustic Concert Series will feature "traveling songwriter, joyful singer (and) barefoot acoustic enthusiast" Beth Wood at the Auburn Unitarian Universalist Fellowship.
Wood hails from Eugene, Ore., and has been touring as a singer-songwriter for 16 years. When describing Wood, her website said, "Picture a home-body with an ever-present wanderlust, an introvert with a passion for performing, a creative free-spirit with enough discipline to rework her dream year after year, calloused little hands and a big pile of curly hair and you've got Beth Wood."
For those who aren't familiar with her music, she describes the sound as joyful and has made a habit of never playing with her shoes on. She said, "My music is like Sheryl Crow but a little more acoustic. I am a self-taught guitarist with some vocal training. I use lots of alternate guitar tunings and my greatest joy is singing. I try to communicate that joy through my music."
Wood's music is heavily influenced by her life, friends and the various emotions she carries around with her from day to day. Usually something completely random, like an overheard word or phrase, will spark an idea that turns into a song. "Writing a song is like working a puzzle except you don't know what all the pieces look like until you create them." She uses this method to create music with earthy, unique vibes and honest, emotional lyrics that resonate with her audience.
For Wood, this emotional reaction is one of her favorite parts of performing. She said, "I love watching people's faces and looking in their eyes while they watch a story unfold. Sometimes music will work its mysterious magic and something resonates, stirring emotions. Whether it's laughter or tears, it's what I live for!" she said, "I love connecting with an audience through live performance. Every night is different. I never know what to expect!"
For up and coming artists, Wood has an abundance of knowledge and advice to give. She stresses the importance of practicing until a piece feels completely natural. She said, "As many times as you practice something in your room, it will never be the same as when you play in front of other people. You have to practice that part until it feels natural."
She also emphasizes the importance of communicating and playing with other artists in order to grow and learn many new things through an equal love of the art.
"Don't pass up an opportunity to collaborate with other musicians. sometimes magic happens, sometimes not. But we always learn something."
Wood is looking forward to the concert, and encourages any Auburn student who enjoys supporting independent music to come out and have a great time.
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