Life, and all that Jazz

It's amazing to me to think of how quickly time passes, once things really get rolling. Lately with my life being so exciting and busy--school starting, homecoming, pep band, lessons, competitions, auditions, etc.--I've found that the more time consumed by said activities, the less time I spend thinking and musing.

Not that I don't do it at all, I still pace around the house, the yard. Drift off during the really long and boring lectures given me by Mr. King... but still, I think my journal and this blog testify to my being born back into life. I'm back on the highway.

But you know what? It's beautiful, too. I love being relaxed and reflective, but I love being busy just as much. It's what I live for, that cycle of work-relax-reflect-involve and through again. It's part of what makes me who I am, it's what I do.

Recently (as if you couldn't tell), it's been music season for me. Forgive my spurting... but here's a word on that note. Pun intended.


The Crescent Octet isn't what I expected when I auditioned for Super Band. It wasn't what I thought I wanted, but now that I think of it, it's what I was headed for all along.

I was so close to making SB. So close, in fact, that there were only two reasons I didn't make it in: 1. Politics, and 2. Energy

But honestly, The Octet is an answer to many prayers. For one thing, though I'm invited, I don't have to go on tour to Japan (though I would love it, if it weren't for the cost). Also, I have to think of the vision Caleb has for this group. This is the first year the Octet will take the stage, and it's their goal to create a legacy. The Crescent Octet is intended to be another, equal group counter to Super Band. It has the same high expectations, plays at the same level in a combo setting, and will create the same renown--but that last bit is up to us.

I am going to be a part of this: The Crescent Octet. Though I was set on SB, it didn't occur to me that the Octet would be a better choice. It will offer me what Super Band can't: critical individuality, improvisational confidence, and a year to get familiar with the program. After that, Ray says, nothing will stop me. I will have emerged a prominent musician, one SB can't turn down. I count on that.