Gigging. It's what we do, or, at least, what we attempt. The "music business" was never easy. Even less so now. Though I've never lost (or even misplaced) my "rose colored glasses", they can, at times, pick up smudges. I still hang on (usually without too much difficulty) to a sense of "calling", and a belief in the promise and possibility that (ever deepening) musical connections can make. Though committed to my path as a soloist, I am grateful for the sideman work (and the people I work with), even if it does mean playing (some) private parties. Gigs are gigs - especially now.

Enjoyed being a "civilian" last night, spending time with the family in Ocean City, MD. The most fulfilling parts are in the "Best Things in Life are Free" (at least in theory) category. It was a relief to get off of the amusement pier, and simply walk up to the ocean, taking it in from all directions. Later on, Robbie spent the best part of an hour taking in a "street-corner" violinist. I am continually impressed with my children (feels like the wrong word, but, kids or offspring aren't working right now, either). It's easy to spend a ton of money down there, but once one steps out of that lane, the value of the experience seems to rise.

More catch-up. This was the sign out on the lawn of the New Castle Presbyterian Church on May 17, when I was featured at their "Jazz Coffee House". An informal setting, and a really fun gig. Will probably have a couple of posts for YouTube, but it may take another week or two.

This past Wednesday night, I attended the Ken Poplowski concert at the Mainstay, with Robbie (my 12 year old). He loved it, and now loves the Mainstay (this was his first time there). Good deal! The "house band" included the Redd brothers: Robert (piano) and Chuck (drums and vibes). For all their presence and noterity in this area, this is the first time I've heard them. Excellent. The show they put on was much like concerts I've played (mostly with the Midiri Brothers) a million times, which made it even more fun for me to watch, as I knew everything that was going on (including who missed what chord change, and the pseudo train wreck at the end of one tune when four of the musicians went 4 different ways - all normal stuff). As I've written here before, this (local) area is blessed with a strong arts presence. I think I'll stick around :)