ART & Music Blog

Stay inspired with the Art & Music Redmond blog, your go-to source for the latest news, artist spotlights, music tips, and art tutorials in Central Oregon. Discover expert advice on guitar gear, painting techniques, local art events, and music community updates. Whether you’re a musician, artist, or art lover, our blog connects you with creative insights and Redmond’s vibrant arts scene.

Casey Casey

Why It’s Important to Change Your Guitar strings

At Art & Music in Redmond, Oregon, we’re here to spark creativity and support artists and musicians at every level. More than just a store, we offer hands-on access to the tools, materials, art classes, and music lessons you need to grow. We’ve got all the gear—guitars, amps, art supplies, and more—so whether you're picking up your first brush or your next instrument, you’ll find what you need to create with confidence. This is where inspiration meets action—right here in the heart of Central Oregon.

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Casey Casey

Discover Art & Music in Redmond, Or: Where Creativity Comes to Life

At Art & Music in Redmond, Oregon, we’re here to spark creativity and support artists and musicians at every level. More than just a store, we offer hands-on access to the tools, materials, art classes, and music lessons you need to grow. We’ve got all the gear—guitars, amps, art supplies, and more—so whether you're picking up your first brush or your next instrument, you’ll find what you need to create with confidence. This is where inspiration meets action—right here in the heart of Central Oregon.

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Casey Casey

Watercolor Techniques Every Beginner Should Try

Watercolor is a fun, forgiving, and beautifully expressive medium—perfect for new and experienced artists alike. At Art & Music in Redmond, OR, we offer weekly watercolor classes where students can explore new skills and refine their craft. Here are five foundational techniques that every beginner should know.

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Casey Casey

Why It’s So Hard to Start a Creative Project

Starting a new creative project—whether it’s a painting, a song, or any kind of artistic expression—can feel surprisingly hard. You sit down with good intentions and all the tools at hand, but suddenly… nothing. You’re stuck.

If you've ever felt that way, you're not alone. Here's why it's so hard to get started on something creative in art or music—and a few practical tips to help you break through the block.

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Casey Casey

Discover the Beauty of Watercolor Art

Watercolor art is one of the most captivating and expressive forms of painting. Known for its soft textures, translucent layers, and vibrant color blends, watercolor allows artists to bring landscapes, florals, portraits, and abstract visions to life with fluid elegance.

At Art & Music in Redmond, Oregon, we celebrate the timeless appeal of watercolor through rotating exhibits, classes and supplies tailored for all skill levels.

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Casey Casey

My favorite Music is LOCAL

Why Supporting Local Bands Matters – and How You Can Help

Central Oregon is home to an incredible music scene. From small coffee shop gigs to lively outdoor festivals, the region thrives on the energy and passion of its local musicians. But behind every great performance is a network of supporters—fans, venues, and businesses—that help make the music possible.

As a guitar store in Bend, Oregon, we’ve seen firsthand how much talent exists right in our backyard. That’s why we’re passionate about helping local bands not only survive but thrive. Here’s why supporting local music matters—and how you can be part of it.

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Essential Guitar Care

Whether you're a seasoned player or just starting out, taking care of your acoustic guitar is key to maintaining its tone, playability, and overall longevity. Regular maintenance not only ensures your instrument sounds its best but can also save you from costly repairs down the road. As a trusted guitar store in Bend, Oregon, we’ve put together this guide to help you keep your acoustic guitar in top shape year-round.

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Casey Casey

changing your strings

🎸 How to Change Your Guitar Strings | Step-by-Step Guide 🎸

Is your tone sounding dull or your strings feeling grimy? It might be time for a fresh set! In this video, we walk you through how to change your guitar strings, whether you're a total beginner or just need a quick refresher.

We’ll cover: What tools you need, how to safely remove old strings, proper string installation technique

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Casey Casey

JHS PEDALS

At first glance, a JHS pedal might seem like just another stompbox. But look closer—each design is packed with sonic versatility. Whether it’s the cult-classic Morning Glory overdrive, the lo-fi delight of the Colour Box, or the vintage vibes of the Milkman slapback delay, JHS pedals consistently blend utility with character.

Many JHS pedals offer multiple modes, toggle switches, and hidden features, giving players room to experiment and personalize their sound. It’s the kind of gear that rewards curiosity—perfect for guitarists who like to tweak and explore.

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Casey Casey

IF YOUR LIFE WAS A SONG

Art & Music is about playing the notes you’re given, even if you don’t know what to do with them yet. In this life, you don’t get many second chances. In the grand scheme of things, your solo isn’t even that long. If your life was a song, and you were the lead guitar player, then you’d end up playing rhythm most of the time… have a few fills here and there, and at best get about 8-12 bars to work your magic. Thats it.

You could work your whole life trying to perfect exactly what it is you want to say, but from a person who’s taken the stage quite a few times at this point, the truth is… it never goes the way you expect. You might have grand ideas in your head of the perfect solo, but in reality… the lights will be dimming before you know it and you’re 8 bars will be over.

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Casey Casey

NO WRONG NOTES…

The practice is not just musical notes, although notes are involved. It’s learning how to look at those notes, then realizing that there are different ways you can focus your energy and perspective on those notes. It’s not, is this the “right” note? I can’t tell you how many times I’ve heard that question from students, “is this the right note?”

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