4/13/09

Greetings friends,

Hope this finds you all well and that everyone’s spring is warming up nicely. It’s been a good first quarter here at Hip-Bone headquarters. Highlights have included a wonderful weekend in Washington D.C. at the Eastern Trombone Workshop. I can’t tell you what a thrill it was to solo with the Army Blues band. The band was absolutely killing and is anchored by a ridiculously strong trombone section. Also had a blast directing the New York State Band Directors Assoc. Honor Jazz Band in Syracuse at their convention in early March. So many wonderful young high school players and also had the privilege of guest soloing with Ithaca College’s outstanding jazz ensemble. This past week, I had the honor of being the tonemeister for the New York Philharmonic Brass Quintet recording of their new CD. Needless to say, the guys sounded phenomenal! In case you’re wondering, as was I when they called me, a tonemeister is kind of like what we would call a producer in pop or jazz recordings.

Upcoming stops include a guest solo spot with the Williamsville North high school and middle school bands up in Buffalo, as well as a week in Aaruhus, Denmark at the International Trombone Festival. Looking forward to both.

I’m currently holding down the first trombone chair at Guys and Dolls on Broadway. It’s a terrific band and they’ve even found a way to include a couple trombone solos. If you happen to go to the show, stop by and say hello.

Lastly, over the past 10 years or so, many of you have asked me about taking a lesson when you come through New York. Up to now, I haven’t been able to add private teaching to my schedule. It’s something I really enjoy doing and am now taking on a few students. If you’re interested and passing through town, feel free to drop me an e-mail.

All the best!

Michael