A What!?!

In recent conversation someone (not one of our team) referred to my musical interests as a habit to be supported, i.e. an addiction as to drugs. The point being made was that Vicki deserves applause, kudos, mad props, etc. for putting up with all that I'm involved in. And that point was spot-on.

But I've been trying to shake the analogy, and it hasn't been easy. Is music an addiction for me? Do I selfishly pursue it? If so, should I go into rehab? Quit cold turkey?

These are certainly different terms than I normally use to describe the activities that keep me busy and happy.

I write in the first person, but I suppose these questions could be asked by any of us. Are we developing and using God's gifts according to His will? Can we exploit this gift of music more effectively? When does it become selfish? or a habit? or an addiction?

Chamber Music Sabbath Afternoon

Sounds like it's coming together. I'd like to hear from the Greenes, esp. re: Mrs. Greene's friends. But I think we'll have the parts covered even without the extra cello and bass, as long as oboe-stephanie is on hand.

Recorders would be a lot of fun, but we'll need to be sure that Geri is present and brings a wad of music with her. Anyone with a telephone want to work on this?

CMWs: I'm not ready to make these happen yet. These events take a huge effort, and with my networking track record, I'm in doubt about getting enough good players together here to make it work. And I'm not crazy about the facilities at CUC. I need to hear more from this community: more ideas, more people, etc.

Soldering: I think it should be do-able. The trick would be to fill the lead pipe with something to keep the solder from collecting inside: perhaps cork, or tape, or something else. It might be valuable to visit a repair shop and ask how they do it. Be sure to ask about the solder/lacquer interaction. I'm wondering how a hole like that is formed anyway.

Networking: Keep your heart open to opportunities to recruit players into our ensembles. We don't need to drag in unwilling parties, or coerce anyone, but when you find someone like Wes (kudos, Wes) who will show up on a regular basis and put some effort and outside practice into it, listen for the Spirit's guidance.

A+ Tuba

Hey, if it floats your boat, go for it! As far as getting your hands on one, Zephyr Brass in Atlanta has/had a used one they may be/have been willing to sell for around $2K, and when I was in Atlanta it was in good condition. Recommended. The new model I had my heart set on is the Miraphone 181 Series F Tuba 1816VGB - 6 Valves, Gold Brass.

Tubists, Rejoice!

International Tuba Day

Piano Quintet & Septet this Sabbath

Here are the parts to cover. Can we all get together this Sabbath afternoon? Yes, D2, please call Stephane. Jamie, can your friends join us then? (How was your final exam?)

What time? Where? I'm thinking two o'clock-ish in the sanctuary at Triadelphia SDA. What do you think?

Corinth

Hey Corey, it sounds like your trip was a success. Congrats! Be sure to let us know when you get air-dates for your work. Do you anticipate more work like this in the future?

How has it been practicing at the warehouse?

We'll need to choose dates to offer to the Spanish church. Suggestions, anyone?

July 17 is in the middle of CMW in Collegedale, but we may be willing to try Linthicum on a different weekend.

I've sent an invitation to both of Paul's addresses.

SAA Band Helpers

I've reported to Jan Wall that we'll be helping her band as follows:

May 15		May 29
David—trombone Wes—euphonium Daniel—tuba		Jamey—french horn Wes—euphonium Corey—tuba Daniel—maybe

Let me know if plans change.

More CMW's

Jamey suggested in this post that we should have another CMW here in the Maryland area, and it's not the first time I've heard the suggestion. I've also heard suggestions for brass weekends, woodwind weekends, and voice weekends.

How can we gauge the level of enthusiasm for these ideas? When will we know it's reached critical mass? I think there's a lot of merit to each idea. Jeremy is aware of the concept, and supportive.

freeware music typesetting S/W

http://lilypond.org/web/

Brass Practice tonight @ Müller's

As David and I are both practicing at Geri's home this evening, let's plan to meet there with all brass players. Arrive at 7:00, begin practicing at 7:15.

We have opportunity to play 2 - 5 numbers on May 22 at Triadelphia, so we need to figure out what we're doing. We can also run through the SAA band music for May 15.

Calling all Trout

This sounds great! Two more low strings. OK, I'm open tonight (Monday), Wednesday or even Friday night. Or we could try for Sabbath afternoon. (I think.) With two more players we could even take a whack at the Hummel Septet. We need the Greenes, the Maydens, the Ashtons and Jamie's friends. And anyone else who's interested. (I'll post instrumentation below.) Which evening or afternoon works for you?

Trout Piano Quintet		Hummel Piano Septet
Violin Viola 'Cello Bass Piano		Flute Oboe French Horn Viola 'Cello Bass Piano