2004 has already brought the potential for more playing opportunities and a
chance to learn. I am joining the Community Concert Band and Swing Band this
week. I had taken a break near the middle of 2003 due to demands on my time.
Fortunately I have more time on my hands and I can join them and commit to
making weekly/monthly rehearsals. I think I have improved a lot over the last
few months and I am anxious to see the fruits of my labor (or the glaring
shortcomings in my theory & technique).

Another great potential opportunity is the chance to participate in a small
jazz combo workshop. Twice a month I will get together with other beginning
improvisers (sextet format ala Art Blakey & the Jazz Messengers) and an
instructor. We will work on tunes, get valuable instructions and possibly have
the chance to play in front of an audience at a club (once we are ready). This
is definitely the chance I've been looking for and I am very excited about it.
It will really push me to improve and give me a kick in the pants to learn my
scales, chords, etc. More than anything it will get me comfortable playing with
other players. Stay tuned for more info on this? I'm pretty stoked right now.
My practice sessions are being attacked with a new found focus and vigor.

There is a great new website being developed that I want to bring to
everyone's attention. It's called "I was doing all right?" and you
can check it out at http://jazz.supernonstop.com.
Here is another cat working to improve his playing and he is generous enough to
share the journey with us. Be sure to check it out when you have a moment.