I love my job and what I do, but I hate how the work is dispersed (some might argue that it is never ending). Everyone thinks that teachers have it easy. Summers and the "right" holidays off. However, for those of us who work in higher education, any break is supposed to be dedicated to research and travel to conferences. This can be very fulfilling but also a real source of stress at home. Christmas time for me is always a balance of research, prep for the new school term, family activities and last minute shopping. It is generally pressure filled, but for me, it is over-the-top. Next year, I may skip a conference, grab a hot cocco, and cuddle with a loved one by the fire. 

Well, it has only taken 5 years but finally the band has a decent quasi formal shot. I am going to embrace it. 

Great sound at this festival and we are always happy to be part of the line-up. You can see videos of the band on this website or at the band's youtube page. Also, it seems as if we have a fan with some very good video equipment. Check out one of "Twentyfive Musical's" videos here.  

I was excited that this article was published in The Recorder and hope that a few educators took the time to read it. Some of my favorite bands are hybrids that do not really fit into one stylistic category or another and I think jazz and the big band ensemble should continue to evolve, honoring the past while incoporating new sounds and styles. 

I am close to finishing this arrangement so if I put it in writing maybe it will whoop my butt into finishing it for tomorrow's rehearsal. How's that for manipulating your own psyche? Well, I'm wasting valuable time. :) 

Recently, I have been a prolific writer for my band. At times, I have felt guilty rehearsing all of my charts. I need to lose this guilt as, modesty aside, I am a good writer and my charts are written specifically for the interests and skills of the players. Admittedly, my actions are not completely self-effacing as I wish to gain recognition as an arranger and I hope that others will play my music. But, my first concern is writing music that works for the After Hours Big Band. On that note, I hope that others in the band will try their hand at writing, as it can be a very rewarding endeavour. It would also add some colour to our repertoire. I hope to hear a new arrangement or composition soon. I know I am about to release another one to the band. Hopefully, someone else will rise to the challenge.