Wednesday, July 31, 2024

Close-Up-Magic...No boxes, Big Impact!


Close-Up-Magic...No Boxes, Big Impact!


Close-Up-Magic has always been part of the magic scene. Many of us started with a card trick or a magic kit as a gift. Where to go from there was problematic, at least for me. My audience was family and friends. I wasn't very good, and the familiarity of my audience didn't help. Constant interruptions, grabbing my cards...not really their fault. (I wasn't very good.)


Stage Magic-Boxes Illusions-Sleight-of-Hand


This was also a pleasant memory from childhood. Magicians cutting ladies in two and putting them back together. Others producing endless fans of cards and cigarettes...it was a different time. Linking Solid Metal Rings, Multiplying Billiard Balls, and Candles. It all intrigued me, but the secrets were not available. My only source of knowledge came from a public library, which was very limited.

Leaving Magic Behind


Life takes takes many twists and turns. Varied interests pull us back and forth and magic was left behind. I still liked magic but I didn't return until I was a young man. In the mid-seventies, Doug Henning took Brodawy and the Magic World by Storm. He had a new look which was appealing to my sensibilities. He performed Large Illusions as well as Close-Up-Sleight-of-Hand Magic. He was an inspiration, to say the least.

A Rekindled Interest in Close-Up-Magic


As a young adult, it was easy to find new resources. Magic Shops in Boston, stocked with professional material and the latest books. Magic Clubs hosting lecturers and more. I spent countless hours practicing, but still the mystery of making it entertaining eluded me. I had yet to learn the importance of personal interaction with my audience. In a word, it was the ability to "connect" with individuals and groups of people. Much like a dance, it was cooperative between the performer and the audience.

A Mentor at Last...?


Having a mentor can make all the difference between mediocrity and being a polished performer. I never met someone to fill this role. However, with the advent of magic videos and DVDs, I was able to watch and study how the best in the field entertained with Close-Up-Magic.


Being Your Best Self


The development of a "character" was an extremely important piece of the puzzle. Even in the earliest periods of development, I had read this. Understanding it was something entirely different. Not being trained in theatre it was important to play a character that is close to who you are in life, just a better version.

A Journey to becoming a Craftsman

Some call it "The Art of Magic." There are certainly artists in every field, and I know who the artists are in magic. My hope is to be considered a talented craftsman. A serious dabbler in magic. I get better by performing as often as possible and choosing the best material in line with my skills. I am well compensated for my performance time, but my biggest reward can be seen in the faces of the people I entertain. You can see them in my photos and videos.

339-927-4710





Monday, July 15, 2024

 

Boston Magician Joe Ferranti entertains with Strong Card Magic.


Boston Card Magician Joe Ferranti

In the world of magic, where the impossible becomes possible, Boston Magician Joe Ferranti has an endless fascination with Card Magic. He recently said, “I have added magic with coins and other everyday objects to my repertoire. However, when I find myself at a large “Walk Around Magic Performance” where I have just a few minutes to spend with the attendees, I can do nothing to make a lasting impact on my audience more than performing some quick, Card miracles.

Card Tricks Vs. Card Miracles

As far as your average layman is concerned, all card tricks are the same. That is all most have observed. They have seen friends perform card tricks. You take a card, they look through the cards, and remove yours…success!


How about this…you merely think of a card, and it is exactly a card that has been in my pocket. Much of my work revolves around the spectator and their thoughts as opposed to “selecting or taking a card.” It is a profound difference that is not likely to be appreciated until observed personally.


Converting Opinions Group by Group

At most jobs, people are happy to engage in a little magic. What is not expected is the emotional reactions that happen after a quick trick. You can see it in my photos and videos. Every effect in my repertoire has been stripped to its core. Leaving only the hard-hitting impact of magic. Magic that will often happen by the actions of an unsuspecting spectator. They will not understand what or how the end result occurred. It's not magic, but it feels unnervingly too close. 


#boston#magician#magic#massachusetts#illusionist


Technology and Magic.

In a world where technology often overshadows traditional arts, Joe Ferranti’s card magic is simply a well-executed illusion. His work is a testament to the enduring power of magic which relies on psychology and traditional sleight of hand. Join The Magic of Joe Ferranti for a brief time where anything is possible, and the only limit is your imagination.

Joe Ferranti

www.ferrantimagic.com 339-927-4719

Boston Magician



Tuesday, July 2, 2024

Nothing but the Best, in Magic Entertainment.

 

Massachusetts Best Magician, Joe Ferranti.

Boston Magician Joe Ferranti

As a part time Boston Magician with a semi-pro status, I do not have a high profile in the who's who in the magic industry. However, I do have a loyal base of repeat clients who appreciate my services. Unlike those seen on late night TV or talent shows like AGT, Penn and Teller, or Masters of Illusion, I have a more understated approach. It's not my goal to achieve that level of fame. At my age, I have more than enough to keep me busy.—it's simply not my style. I prefer to "stay in my lane." I fill a local niche which is satisfying during my retirement.

Speaking of age, Mark Lewis recently proved age is no barrier, earning a "Golden Buzzer" on CGT at 79. His classic magic resonated with judges and audiences alike, showcasing the timeless appeal of well-honed craft.

Boston, Massachusetts has seen changes in magic distribution—from brick-and-mortar shops like Hank Lee's and Diamond's Magic, now sadly closed, to the digital era dominated by online platforms like Penguin Magic, Vanishinginc., and Tannen's Magic. The internet has revolutionized access to magic secrets, from books and VHS tapes to today's instant downloads.

When it comes to magic, quality varies widely. I choose material from the best creators in the business, adding my own character and sleight of hand skills. This simple formula—quality material and personal flair—it takes time to refine, but it's worth it.

From England, creators like Ben Earl, James Brown, Gary Jones, Lee Smith, Shaun McCree, and Matthew Dowden inspire my walk-around and parlor shows. Similarly, from the USA, Jon Armstrong, John Guastaferro, and Johny Ace Palmer contribute to the excellence of my performances.

In my opinion, these creators are the pinnacle of their craft—both as innovators and performers. For those serious about magic, studying their work ensures you're learning from the best.

Boston Magician Joe Ferranti.


Monday, June 24, 2024

AI? Is it the Solution to a Powerful Website?

 AI is beyond my scope of understanding for my personal use. Perhaps I’m too old to learn the intricacies…? Things are changing faster than I can process. I maintain my website. I wear all the hats. It’s not that I want to, but honestly, I work part-time. Having my website professionally maintained would cost more than I earn. That is something I do understand.

AI Photo Software

I have and continue to use AI Photo Software on all my pictures on my website. Simply put, all my photos come from video footage. Video to still image is far from perfect, but I compromise as I cannot bring a photographer to all my gigs. My wife occasionally shoots videos for me. I edit a video for my client's memories. I use short segments for my promos and take still clips for my photos.

To Deceive or Enhance…?

Here is the "slippery slope." It's no secret, that it is possible to generate videos or photos to serve less than honorable purposes. (Joe Biden tells voters in New Hampshire not to vote??? Not true AI generated.)

Can Instagram detect AI-generated images?

Meta does not require you to label images that have been created or altered with AI. However, these images will still receive a label if our systems detect they were AI-generated or if they were altered using AI. Note: There may be penalties if you do not label content as required.

When you visit my Instagram page, every photo is enhanced. Actually, before AI, I used photo software to alter my pictures. Not for the purposes of deception. But to give a better user experience. Sometimes a simple crop will do the job.

Boston Massachusetts Best Magician...Master Magician...Best Bloody Illusionist?

O.K. The above is not entirely accurate. It's a little "hype" or fictional. I hope you get the point. In the photo below you can see my newest "altered" image. In the original, I was surrounded by two spectators. I cut them out, because...I can. Also, the background was "cluttered." Yes, I removed it and replaced it with one of many options in my AI software.



Joe Ferranti Boston Massachusetts Magician 339-927-4710






Sunday, June 2, 2024

Best in Wedding Magic! Boston Massachusetts-Mass. and New Hampshire. fer...


Boston and Massachusetts Wedding Magician

ferrantimagic.com 339-927-4710

Weddings bring together family and friends. A great magician is your gift to your guests. You will hear from everyone who witnessed the magic styling of one of Massachusetts' Premier Close-Up Magicians.

The Magic of Joe Ferranti

The shared experience of witnessing cutting edge magic is an instant conversation starter. Furthermore, making connections between total strangers into new friends...at least while enjoying the "best in Magic!"

 Joe Ferranti has been entertaining at weddings for over 13 years. His style and expertise at sleight-of-hand magic have absolutely thrilled his clients.

 All performances are 100% guaranteed satisfaction, or you don't pay.

 Please call for details...The more I know about your special day enables me to be prepared.

 You and your guest will be pleased.

 Sincerely,

Joe Ferranti







Magic at The China Pearl Quincy Massachusetts


Wedding Magician Boston, Wedding Magician Massachusetts, Wedding magician New hampshire

Thursday, February 29, 2024

Adult Birthday Magician Massachusetts

Thirteen Years of Birthdays


Looking back over the past 13 years, I've performed for more birthday parties than I can count. In the beginning I performed Kids Birthdays as well. Honestly, it was difficult, not the magic, but entertainment for three-year-olds to teenagers and adults.
Most think it's a snobbish thing..."I don't perform Childrens magic."

Not at all, I was unable to control the perfect execution of entertainment for "All ages."
Disney has this perfected, as I enjoy watching their movies with my granddaughter. That's the "Disney Magic."

There are those who do it well. Perhaps I didn't work on it long enough. However, I didn't start my performing career until retired. At a somewhat advanced age, everything is a little more challenging.
So, my ambitions are restricted to providing "The Best in Magic Entertainment." for restricted groups to those in their teens to adults.

I wisely perform "clean material."  As an unknown performer my audiences don't want to hear my politics or "blue humor." I seek the common bond of Strong Magic and the joy of laughter.

It really is a good time, where everyone leaves feeling fine...just a little bit better than when they arrived.

Call Joe Ferranti at 339-927-4710 for a great time. Guaranteed!

Boston Massachusetts Magician
www.ferrantimagic.com

Saturday, January 27, 2024

Wild And Crazy Reactions? or the more subdued... "Amazing; Amazing.”

Joe Ferranti's quiet response to his performance.

All reactions to magic performances vary for as many reasons as you might imagine. From screams, people running away, even tears…yeah sometimes you tug just right on the heartstrings.

Reactions to Magic

From NFW! or simply two words “amazing…amazing.” As you can hear from the gentleman above. There was no screaming that day at Michael’s Harborside (1 Tournament Wharf, Newburyport, MA 01950) I was performing at a quiet 80th birthday party, with a “reserved” audience. Those aren’t my words; they are the words my client used to describe her family and friends. “Old Yankee” was her exact wording. Not being quite sure I checked it out.

What’s an “Old Yankee?”

“In the 19th century Yankee was most often used to refer to a New Englander (in which case it may suggest Puritanism and thrifty values), but today refers to anyone coming from a northern state, with a specific focus still on New England.” I think the guests were somewhere in the middle. I do know they were nice people, and a joy to work with. It keeps my ego in check when everyone’s not reacting with their jaws on the floor.

Check out my YouTube Channel, and you’ll see the many videos with screaming and other over the top reactions. The feeling is gratifying, but I’ve learned to keep “grounded”. Magic does not need another magician with a fat head. The biggest compliment I hear is about “being humble.” That’s something I work on each day, and to have it noticed is reward in itself.

Am I the Right Magician for Your Event?

 I always try to have a conversation with my clients. The more I know, the better prepared I will be. Not prepared in the sense of “magic preparation” I am always rehearsed. I mean prepared in the many little things that can add up to a big difference at your event.

When You Do Hire The Magic of Joe Ferranti…

No matter what the event, The Magic of Joe Ferranti (Boston Massachusetts Magician) will do our very best to bring your guests an experience that will have the crowd screaming and laughing. Short of that, I hope you’ll settle for, “Amazing… the very least you’ll hear someone saying “amazing”. BTW, look at the eyes…they speak for themselves. One of Boston’s Best Close-Up Magicians.

www.ferrantimagic.com  The Magic of Joe Ferranti

339-927-4710

One of Massachusetts' Best Magicians