Cleaning Up

[Ping]

So, a friend whom I respect a bunch, calls me to sub his lead alto chair in a big band this summer. I have the time and readily agree. They're literally on a "Mission for God".

I went to a rehearsal last week. It seems they've received some sponsorship. Check out the bus (and I totally didn't notice the reflection of the "rehearsal hall" in the picture):

[rscott]

How's the book?

[Ping]

Scott- It's mostly a one-set program consisting of tunes that compliment (or set up) the leaders message. Lots of gospel type tunes. Some ballads.

And he has a library for "regular" (secular) gigs, of Basie (Nestico), Thad Jones, and other high school/college "standards". I think there are a few former public school teachers in the band so thats a bit of an influence. There are a couple of former North Texas cats in there, which can have good consequences. The piano player for sure, whom I've gigged with over the years, was a North Texas guy and plays real well.

We read Groovin Hard the other day. That was probably the most challenging thing I've read with them.

Brass is WAY too loud, most of the time. Looking forward to rehearsing some more Basie, hopefully with some taming influence.

Decent rhythm section.

Great message.

[Rev]

....a roaring band playing "How Great Thou Art"

Amen?

Rev

[rscott]

The Nestico version.