Who is Papa Merv?

I'm just a guy who enjoys music. Perhaps a bit too much.... 

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I am a casual musician, proficient only at piano and organ, and semi-decent at singing, conducting, and arranging. There was a time when I attempted to earn a living by entertaining at Assisted Living Facilities, but quickly discovered that most facilities simply could not afford to pay me for more than one gig per month. So, as fun as it was, I had to look for a more sustainable career. 

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Nearly two decades later, I've finally completed years of career training and have been privileged to land my dream job as my first job. A rare blessing in today's crazy world. However, that meant moving my family to the hills of Appalachia, one of a few areas I knew next-to-nothing about. Still, a slower pace than my previous cities and states, which I don't mind, although it does mean a few hours' car ride to take the kids to the zoo or museum. But the people are friendly, and the hills are green.

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I'm trying to teach my three children to appreciate music. They all do, to some degree. But, as my six-year-old has repeatedly reminded me, "You like music more than anyone, Dad."

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So, here I am, sharing album reviews and song reviews with the world (or at least with close friends and family), hoping to inspire with what has inspired me.