Acoustic guitar instrumentalist, singer and songwriter, Ken Totushek—a musician with a mission...
Ken has been playing guitar since the age of 12, and continually studies the impact of various guitar construction effects on tone—things such as shape and size, woods used, age, vintage guitars, specialty guitar builders (luthiers) of our day, strings, technique, etc. For Ken, any of these variables mentioned can evoke different moods, inspiration, and creativity—"it's incredibly fascinating to me, and seems to have become a lifetime journey exploring daily new depths of musical discovery!" Ken plays his own compositions, as well as those of others that he has arranged. It is not unusual to see Ken with at least 2-3 of his favorite guitars accompany him on stage—each with their own unique qualities and tonal nuggets just waiting to resonate. He does all of his recording, as well as that of others, at Graceworks Recording, his 24 track digital, project recording studio.
In guitarist Ken Totushek's inspirational music one senses the uplifting, soulful, and relaxing flow of sweet sounds often whispering stories from his and others' life experience. Ken's music is down to earth, inviting, and tends to capture the heart of the listener as he leads one through a calming musical journey. His audience has varied greatly over the years, and includes churches, worship and praise events, children's music venues, community concerts and Fall Fairs, weddings, elderly and nursing home venues, as well as playing abroad on occasion. Ken's music has always been well received, and for that he is grateful. "It has been my experience that in music, mankind has clearly been blessed with a truly universal language."
Of prime importance to Ken, is that the spiritual element woven throughout his music would resonate clearly. "I believe whatever I do musically is a gift from God, and so whenever I play, I feel I am just giving back to Him that which He has graciously given me. It blesses and inspires me immensely. If there are others around to play for, so much the better, perhaps they might receive some blessing that transcends the physical as well. That is my hope and purpose in playing for and with others...ultimately that the 'Giver of Gifts' may be honored and glorified."
Ken's overarching theme has to do with real life stuff--love and success, truth and committment, heartbreak and loss, etc. He values highly his faith and his family. Ken resides in Barrington, RI.
Instrumentation
Ken Totushek -- various acoustic guitars, Hawaiian lap steel, resophonic guitar, ukelele, vocal. Sets can be instrumental only, songs primarily, or mixed between both.
Discography
5 albums to date--For the Rest of Your Life, ©1994; Pilgrim Song, ©2001; Sweet Devotion, ©2004, and Sweet Devotion--heart, ©2005; For the Rest of Your Life and Beyond, ©2010
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