Been a while. Time to catch up around here.
Let's see.
Was at PASIC in Indianapolis. Great to attend. Met many people. Saw many seminars, clinics and demonstrations. My faves...The Emeritus Percussion Ensemble. Sal Rabbio and Alan Abel were amazing. Learned so much just by watching these two perform excerpts from Orchestral repertoire.
Had lunch with Michael Vosbein from Bosphorus Cymbals. These cymbals have changed my life! What beautiful music comes from these Turkish made wonders.
Richard Markus, old friend from Indiana U days was there. He's an Industry stalwart, always moving and always a big supporter, as I am of him.
Steve Houghton did a magnificent job on the Convention and the new Rhythm Center which houses the PAS Collection in downtown Indy is a must see for everyone.
Did two Judy Garland Tribute Concerts in Santa Rosa with the Orchestra there. The amazing Debbie Gravitte sang the Garland Songbook and she knocked them out of the Ballpark. Hope to do this concert many more times, the music is so wonderful. BTW, this is not a "sound alike" show. Just a celebration of the Music that Garland made famous, with a few surprises along the way.
Just finished 4 nights with Christine Ebersole and Billy Stritch at NYC's Birdland. Their Holiday show, "A Town and Country Christmas." I had a ball and was able to take out the old Mark tree, jingle bells and triangles from a long time in the case and use them on the show.
The lovely Deirdre and I got our Xmas tree yesterday. Will put on the lights and other treasures this evening, while drinking champagne and yours truly smoking a cigar.
Off to the gym.
The lovely Deirdre and I wish all of you the Happiest and the Merriest and see you in 2010.
MB
