Echoes of Harlem Nocturne fill my head

We went to my sister's jazz concert...it was really really impressive. The director Mr. (Dr.?) Vanore ran it like a regular jazz band; didn't direct the whole time, and spent a lot of time just nodding and being really excited that they were getting it. The sax section was really tight, and had some great soloists. I miss my soprano! Jeff's solos were really good; it's hard to keep a soprano sax in tune, and he did a really good job of it. Amy, I don't know why you don't want to consider dating him. I'd date any guy who could play like that, and was intelligent and funny besides. Their string bass player, Marshall, was really good too. It's hard to believe he's only a freshman. Nice attitude, nice presentation...if only the frat boys could have restrained their enthusiasm to a more appropriate level of expression.

I really miss playing jazz. The sax unison or chorus runs, the fun syncopation that I understand with my instinct if not in my head, the fun of playing with a bunch of other people. Seeing the concert made me realize too, how much ability I've lost not having to play every day, not having to push myself. These kids are really lucky that they're learning so much about musicianship--solos, improvising, even how to record!--now, since most of them will probably not find a place to play after graduation. There needs to be more opportunities for casual play after you graduate. Municipal band is one thing, but we don't do a lot of jazz. At least I'm still playing somewhat....