We are making the final push for our Semi final performance this Sunday night. We found out at rehearsal that we drew the 15th performance slot out of 17. That time falls at 1 am. When you do the conversion to Trini time I'm pretty sure we'll play sometime between 2 and 3 am Monday morning. There have been repeated announcements about preparation and fore thought leading up to our performance. Since it is so late they are worried about people in the band indulging in adult beverages early on and how that will certainly negatively affect our playing. A major concern indeed. However it will be Ginger Ale for me all night long (that has quickly replaced Squirt as my Trinidad vice, and drink of choice. It's so cheap!!!) The drill master continually jokes about having the breathalyzer test before we go on. Our piece is very challenging and takes a lot of "head smarts" as they pointed out tonight. You won't survive if you let it drift by aimlessly. There is far too much to catch in the 8 minutes. Not to mention that we keep changing parts and will continue to do so all through the weekend. As I mentioned 17 bands will perform in our category and 10 will move onto finals in two weeks. Wish us luck!
My thoughts have also been drifting back home to my students. As I am preparing for my performance, they are preparing for one as well (I hope). My Junior high students have solo and ensemble this weekend and the winter drumline I teach is traveling to Indianapolis for their first performance of the season. Many exciting events no doubt! Best wishes to all young musicians as they take the stage to share their music and hard work with privileged audience members. I can't wait to hear how things go. Wish us all luck!
