I had a swing band gig on Saturday and it went very well (see new pictures on the photos page). My playing was not the best but I try not to be too hard on myself with this group because I can’t practice the music and we only rehearse once a month. There are a few songs that I know well enough to contribute – on other songs I just try not to get in the way or screw up. The group is very gracious to allow me to play with them. I’m sure there are other trumpet players who could do WAY better than me and I will graciously move aside if they show up. At this stage, I’m just trying to learn as much as I can. At the same time I got copies of the music so I plan to work diligently to improve and make my section sound even better. My goal is feel as though I belong there.

The thing that is really wonderful about this band is we don’t get paid individually. Like the community band, it’s all done for the love of the music. If I am not mistaken the money goes to the band’s fund which includes the community band. Like me, these guys and gals take time out of their busy schedule to perform and have a great time doing it. You would think we were getting thousands of dollars and we play like a million bucks!! To me, there is nothing better than looking in audience and seeing people having a good time dancing or just listening. I get paid well for the work that I do in web development and IT support – that feeling doesn’t come close to what I get playing the trumpet.