I switched from tuba to trombone in 1972, my sophmore year in high
school. Went to college to study music education with trombone as my major
instrument. Same thing, Life you know! But I also didn't apply myself
then. Dropped out and joined the working force. From time to time I would
play a song or two in church, but nothing major.

About 5 years ago I got a call from my old high school band director. I
found out that there was a big band in the area and he asked me if I would
be interested in playing 4th bone. I said sure! My oldest son started out
playing trombone. We even bought him a good student horn, Conn Director.
He switched to tuba. I used his horn to play the 4th part.

It was good for me then because I didn't have to worry about the range
being too high. Most of the songs I played when I was in the college jazz
band. Since then I have bcome the 2nd bone player. Our 1st bone is a music
teacher that graduated from WVU on a jazz trombone scholarship. He is
really awesome to hear.

Since then, even though I have changed jobs a few times, I have been
able to stay with the group. There was a time however that I was unemployed
and the state agreed pay for retraining. Took some tests and they showed me
a list of schools and programs I was qualified for. One of them was music
ed at a college about 3 hrs from home. Took the state up on the offer and
now I have another year of college under my belt, this time on the dean's
list.

It took me about 4 weeks to get my chops back to the original college
days. Because of my maturity level and determination, I was able to
practice more steadily. By the end of the school year I was one of the top
bone players there. I found another job when college let out for the summer
so I haven't gone back yet but I am keeping up the practice at home. I lack
one more year to get my teaching degree.

Now, if you think you don't have the time, let me tell you about me.
First, my age is 49. A few weeks ago I celebrated with my wife our 26th
anniversary. I have 2 kids in college and 1 that is on the drumline in high
school. My wife and I have full time jobs that has us working more than 40
hours a week. I help out with the high school band by being the "pit" and
"rock band" clinician. I play 2nd bone in the West Virginia Jazz Orchestra
and bass guitar with a local jazz quartet. My youngest son, my wife and I
belong to and participate with the local Civil Air Patrol. My wife and I
also are carrying 6 hrs each at the community college. We also chaperone
the high scool band trips.

Someday I will be putting on my senior recital and that is the goal I am
practicing toward, (senior in more ways than one.)

Performing music makes the brain smarter. I studied that a couple of
years ago in one of my edcation classes. It keeps you on your toes. It
helps with your coordination. It relieves stress. Even if you don't play
for anyone else, play for yourself and for your health.

If I can do this, I know you can do so much more!