Author Archives: Gandalfe

About Gandalfe

Just an itinerant saxophonist trying to find life between the changes. I have retired from the Corps of Engineers and Microsoft. I am an admin on the Woodwind Forum, run the Seattle Solid GOLD Big Band (formerly the Microsoft Jumpin' Jive Orchestra) a GOLD sax quartet, and enjoy time with family and friends.

Pacifica Big Band’s First Gig of the Year 2024

Posted on February 7, 2024 by Gandalfe

Our first gig of the year was a dance that was cancelled last year due to covid. So many dancers, so much joy. It’s good to be back. We featured our jazz clarinetist, Lauren and she never fails to impress… … Continue reading →

Posted in Music | Tagged , , , | Leave a comment

Pacifica Big Band Summer Joy

Posted on September 11, 2023 by Gandalfe

I really enjoyed this year of music. So many good songs, so many great musicians, I often wonder how long I can ride this train. Of the four ensembles I run or participate in, the big band is my favorite, … Continue reading →

Posted in Music | Tagged , | 1 Comment

Garden Joy 2023

Posted on June 12, 2023 by Gandalfe

We started growing things using raised gardens a couple of years ago and oh my goodness is that good on our bones. First we had two, and now we have six! I put my first one in this year. I’ve … Continue reading →

Posted in Gardening | Tagged , | 2 Comments

Dog Walking Joy

Posted on May 13, 2023 by Gandalfe

Abby loves to take us walking, insists upon it actually. I suspect she wants to keep us active and happy, This collie is such a joy, never met a kid she didn’t instinctively love. We walk her 4 to 6 … Continue reading →

Posted in Pets | Tagged , , | Leave a comment

At long Last: Returning to Music Performance

Posted on April 3, 2023 by Gandalfe

After a 25 year break in music performance, I returned to my roots. I purchased an alto saxophone, joined a band, and started taking lessons. First thing I noticed is that I was a horrible sight reader, something that is … Continue reading →

Posted in Band | Tagged , , | 1 Comment

Por Une Cabeza

Posted on March 15, 2023 by Gandalfe

At our last dance performance my wife Suzy put down her tenor sax, picked up a clarinet, and joined Lauren on the stage for this lovely duet. So many happy dancers, such a nice arrangement. I heard another band doing … Continue reading →

Posted in Band | Tagged , , | Leave a comment

House Purchase Wants/Needs List

Posted on March 5, 2023 by Gandalfe

My son and his family have moved into their forever house. Before he did I gave him the list of criteria we have used over the years to pick our forever home, although three times we ended up moving. The … Continue reading →

Posted in advice | Tagged | Leave a comment

Project Inspiration: Start a Sax Quartet

Posted on March 4, 2023 by Gandalfe

When I started to play saxophone again after a 25+ year hiatus I started looking for ensembles to perform with. I started with a community band to find connections into the local music scene. I really love big bands but … Continue reading →

Posted in Band Management | Tagged , , , | 1 Comment

That One Crazy Gig – Take 50

Posted on February 8, 2023 by Gandalfe

Our first gig of the year turned out to be both lucrative and interesting. It was billed as a birthday party for one of the couples who love and support our band. It was to take place the week after … Continue reading →

Posted in Band, Band Management | Tagged , , | 1 Comment

Wood or Metal Clarinet Prediction – 1920

Posted on December 16, 2022 by Gandalfe

Although the prediction that metal clarinets would become de rigueur proved to be false, this is an interesting read. Note, it was written in The Melody Maker in the late 1920’s by a well-known clarinet player, Ralph Dunbar.

Posted in Music | 3 Comments