Playing the horn...

I have finally recovered from the frantic pace set forth by the brass band area competitions, and my performance with the Grimethorpe Colliery Band were something that I will remember forever. I have vivid memories of my first brass band CD, which was a Grimethorpe CD. I thought, man it would be great to hear them in concert - little did I know that the first time I heard them live, I would be sitting in the band. That was just a little too cool for words.

Heading back to Germany next week to test horns for Besson. I have been getting some great opportunities to help out the company that makes it possible for me to do what I do. I really hope that I can continue this relationship once I get back to the US. For those that have been following the Besson-saga, the company declared bankruptcy about 18 months ago. It was completely restructured and now is producing (yet again) the finest brass instruments in the world. The Besson name lives on, and it will need some rebuilding to make up for the last 3 or 4 years - but when everything is said and done it is the best instrument that you can buy.

After I get back from my trip I get some much needed rest back in the US. I am so looking forward to going home, even if it is only for 3 weeks. Once I come back from vacation, though - it's just a short push to the finish line here at the RNCM!

I have been here in the UK since September 11, 2006, and I thought I would share a little retrospective on my experiences here... and what I have learned so far.

PAT'S UK RETROSPECTIVE, PART I

1.) It's good to have a queen, that way there is always someone that God should save. I wish that our country had someone that no matter what political party - they all loved... Maybe God Save Steve Jobs... maybe not...

2.) Given the exchange rate right now, if you work at a McDonald's in the UK then you would be making about $14/hour. Pretty cool, huh?

3.) I think that the Grammy's need to add a EUPHONIUM category to their awards. Seriously... no, I'm not kidding... seriously.... why are you laughing?

4) I've decided that not all forms of public transportation are created equal. Even in the UK we have different 'classes' of buses and trains. Strange...

5.) I used to think that playing the instrument was the most important thing, but after meeting people over here I realize that the overall musician is much more important. There is more to life than how fast you can triple-tongue.

6.) Operas are good for more than stealing repertoire.

7.) They have some weird ideas in the UK about what is acceptable to put on a sandwich. Over here you have to have Flora on it (that's what they call margarine), and if the contents aren't fried - they should be. And seriously, shrimp and cranberry? YUCK!

8.) Brass banding in the US will never compete with the British. It's like the British playing Basketball - it just won't work. If brass banders inthe US knew what was good for them, they would stop imitating the UK model and come up with something that is their own - Americanize it! It's our favorite pastime!

9.) I still think British money is too complicated.

10.) I appreciate cardio gym equipment more over here. Kilometers per hour makes it look like I am going faster than I really am, and my weight in Kilos is much easier to look at than lbs.!

If you were wondering, yes that was a humourous (like that u?) take on the truth - so don't get offended! I promise pictures from Germany, and a full report when I get back!