Recitals, Auditions and more

Felt I should do a quick update. Through the massive amount of preparation I've been doing these past few weeks, I forget to just sit down and type.

I successfully completed my DMA Chamber Recital a few weeks ago.  By far one of the more challenging experiences I've had but my teachers and friends all helped pull it together.

I've gotten great comments from people ranging from "Thank you for playing things NOT in the standard repertoire" to "that piece pissed me off, you'd play something really pretty and then you'd go left"

I don't really care what the reaction, I just want a reaction.  I think some of us have gotten so into perfection, that we forget about the audience.  And if someone in the audience has the balls to tell you how they really felt, then you've done your job.

It wasn't a perfect recital, but it was engaging. I feel comfort in that.

AT the same time, I passed the pre screening round for the Airmen of Note Bass Trombone spot.
Though I would love to get the gig, I don't know if the military will have me.

I've gone through this before with The Jazz Ambassadors, but because I am deaf in one ear, they had to turn me away.

I could have gotten a waiver, but the turn around wasn't quick enough for the audition. Now I know better, but I also have a lot more tattoos now and I am still deaf.  I just feel like I would be too big of a project for the Air Force to take on, and therefore not let me audition.

But I am hoping for the best.

At this point in the semester I am just going through the motions. I'm acing all of my classes and doing well in my playing. I am broke, but it is just that time of the year.  Basketball season is back, and the Patriots are winning their division.

On an artistic note, I am back to composing new material.  I found myself hunched over the computer this weekend writing an 8 movement Suite for 2 saxes, 2 trumpets, tenor and bass bone, bass and drums full of colors and effects.  (Should get a rise out of some folks)

Oh, and one last thing. I have started applying for college teaching jobs. Currently waiting to hear from one out in East Washington.

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