Author Archives: Gandalfe

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About Gandalfe

Just an itinerant saxophonist trying to find life between the changes. I have retired from the Corps of Engineers and Microsoft. I am an admin on the Woodwind Forum, run the Pacifica Big Band (formerly the Microsoft Jumpin' Jive Orchestra) and participate in other ensembles. Mostly enjoy time with family and friends.

Kiss and Other Musings

Posted on March 28, 2008 by Gandalfe

I have always embraced the KISS methodology of accomplishing things–when possible. KISS, for the uninitiated, stands for a ruder version of Keep It Sweet and Simple. Many times the simplest way to do something is the right way. And many … Continue reading →

Posted in Music, Tips and Tricks | 4 Comments

Is it Friday yet? :o)

Posted on March 28, 2008 by Gandalfe

Except I’d be holding a sax.  :o)

Posted in Humor | 6 Comments

Complaining about Complainers?

Posted on March 26, 2008 by Gandalfe

Um, not me. But after seeing a news story about a new campaign to stop complaining I got to thinking about my friends. I don’t have many friends who complain. And truth be known, and this is brutal, if a … Continue reading →

Posted in Health and wellness | 8 Comments

Silver (Metal) Clarinets

Posted on March 25, 2008 by Gandalfe

I’ve taken a liking to metal clarinets. Since I only buy the silver ones, I call them silver. Silver clarinets were very much in vogue in the early twentieth century. More durable than wood, you would see them in military … Continue reading →

Posted in Clarinet | 13 Comments

Peeps, an Easter Icon

Posted on March 23, 2008 by Gandalfe

I was watching CBS Sunday Morning and sipping on my coffee, surrounded by cats, and watched by my dog–an idealic, quiet morning. When what should I see but a piece about Peeps. So I went to the PeepsShow.com site (don’t … Continue reading →

Posted in Holiday | 5 Comments

For my grandson: Jerry Bergonzi gives sax lessons

Posted on March 22, 2008 by Gandalfe

Nicky, check out these series of quick sax lessons by a phenomenal player sponsored by Rico Reeds. He covers articulations, vibrato, and the joy of playing the sax. Jerry Bergonzi on Posture Jerry Bergonzi on Reed Adjustment Jerry Bergonzi on … Continue reading →

Posted in Saxophone | 1 Comment

Are You Ready for Marriage?

Posted on March 21, 2008 by Gandalfe

Some Friday funnies for you that gives you some insight into the thoughts and recommendations from the 1950’s.

Posted in Humor | 2 Comments

Pandora, radio from the Music Genome Project

Posted on March 20, 2008 by Gandalfe

Is there anyone out there in the free world who doesn’t know about the free web radio service called Pandora.com? One of my favorite jazz combo’s Fourplay is now playing as a radio station. The way it works is you … Continue reading →

Posted in Music | 5 Comments

Boney James: Ride

Posted on March 20, 2008 by Gandalfe

I’m really enjoying the mellow sax rides of my main man Boney James and gospel-drenched singer Dave Hollister. I tip-toe around the fact that I like many of the jazz lite, aka mellow jazz, aka smooth jazz saxophonists, but there … Continue reading →

Posted in Jazz | 2 Comments

This Is Your Brain on Music: The Science of a Human Obsession

Posted on March 19, 2008 by Gandalfe

A friend of mine at work pointed me to this very interesting book that I wanted to reserve at the King County Library. I went to the library site on the Internet, pulled out my wallet, and discovered my library … Continue reading →

Posted in Books | 10 Comments