Jazz

I have enjoyed American Popular Music since my pre-teen years. I remember my dad teaching me a few guitar chords to songs like "Up A Lazy River" right after he gave me my first instrument as a Christmas gift. The greater gift he gave was that of love for all types of music. The instrument was a beginner's guitar redeemed with Blue Chip trading stamps my folks had saved for years. Dad enjoyed entertaining friends and family with his chord style piano prowess, while singing "the old songs". There were tunes like Stardust, Canadian Sunset, Satin Doll, along with many others. Later, I followed his advice to soak up other styles of music, but being an Army brat baby boomer, I have always felt the strong influence of the music of my father's generation.

I had the opportunity of playing bass with a few members of the 9th Army band while stationed in Alaska during the Viet Nam era. While their primary duty was to perform as a marching band, mine was that of Entertainment Specialist. Together we formed a tight-knit combo to play night club gigs. Low and behold, it was some of the same music that Dad taught me! Needless to say, this kind of activity made my tour of duty fly by. By the time I knew it, I was discharged from the Army, and back home again with Mom and Dad. I am convinced that the musical ability passed on to me was "instrumental" (pun intended) in keeping a rifle out of my hands during a time of war. I will always be thankful for the wonderful gift of music.

Now, some 35 years later, I have had the excellent fortune to sit in with the Straight Ahead Big Band. Once again, the music my father loved so well plays an important part in my life. I am having a great time playing with a top-notch Jazz/Swing band. I have also had the opportunity to play with a few other local Jazz combos. Sometimes, as we play, I can still envision my dear old dad sitting around and playing just like old times!

Check out The Straight Ahead Big Band at: www.straightaheadbigband.com