Wednesday, April 26, 2006

Wings update....and a story

Ok, for those of you still interested the Wings are now down 2-1 in the series against Edmonton. We're going to get knocked out in the first round. I can feel it. It's like reliving high school all over again....

And speaking of such:

Those who know me know that I'm not one of those people who is worried about my age. I'll be turing 32 this year and frankly as long as I can still be immature I really don't worry about getting old. I seem to have that goal well in hand. But every once in a while I get these subtle reminders that time marches on....

Last night at band we had a guest conductor in who is a student at Wayne State and is working with us on a song because she needs the experience. Given that she's a student I can respect the fact that she's not going to be very good. Given a little time she'll be a respectable conductor, I'm sure. For the moment though, it's truly a struggle to follow her. We're all watching carefully but it's really becomes more of an exercise in mindreading than anything else.

Now someone must have told her that she must be assertive and take control of the band from the start. After a rough reading of one of her movements, she was looking a little frustrated. Frankly we were a little frustrated too, but that's beside the point. She proceeded to tell us, "You really need to follow me. That's all I can tell you. You have to watch and follow."

We now cut to the internal monologue in my head:

"Hon, I've been playing longer than you've been alive. Trust me I'm following. I've seen more conductors come and......

Hold on....

Let's think this through.....I started playing in 5th grade, so I was about 11. I'm going to be 32 this year.

She's an undergrad music student conductor. Worst case, she's 18, probably she's 19 or 20.

Damn, I have been playing longer than she's been alive.

Damn...."

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