Suzy and I were sitting in with the “In the Mood” big band last night. We have agreed to play in five of the six theater shows of a USO like production. She is playing the clarinet and tenor sax. I am playing the alto and bari sax and the bass clarinet. I do luv the sound of the low instruments.
The sax soloists in this band are top notch. Mark on tenor, Jamie on clarinet, and Bruce on alto sax would be welcome additions to any band. I struggle on the bass clarinet, but once I get the parts down, and I have very tasty parts, I should be able to create a couple of “ah ha” moments for the audience.
Part of the charm of this production is in the vintage music, many vocalists, and old-time humor. We really should set up a dance floor for the audience, but perhaps that wouldn’t be authentic. Our director plays the part of both the benevolent leader and and humorous military leader. The laughter during the practice session is both constant and appreciated.
We didn’t have a drummer the last two weeks, as he was on vacation. But the next seven practices before the run will be with drums. It’s interesting to practice without a drummer. One realizes very quickly at least two things. We really rely on the drummer to help us maintain the beat. And when the drummer isn’t there, every part can be heard by the director. I know what parts I have to work on if I want to nail them, night after night.
With the sax quartet, community band, and last MJB performance, I have seven gigs left this year. I am really trying to work on only the difficult parts, not just the ones I luv to hear, again and time again. ;0)
The Bis Key Chronicles 