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.

The Life of a Musician ~ Take 123

Posted on November 17, 2015 by Gandalfe

Only a dedicated musician would take $20,000 in instruments in his $500 car, 50 miles one way to make $20. ~ Anon The holiday season is upon us and for most musicians this is a busy time. I am an … Continue reading →

Posted in Band Management, Big Band, Guides, Music, My World | 2 Comments

The Perfect Clarinet

Posted on October 26, 2015 by Gandalfe

If the world were perfect, it wouldn’t be. ~ Yogi Berra I have spent a lot of time helping family and friends find the perfect instrument within the constraints of their budgets. New musicians, young musicians, adult newbies and returning … Continue reading →

Posted in Clarinet, Education, Guides, Music, Tips and Tricks | Tagged , , , | 5 Comments

Phil Woods – Just the Way You Are

Posted on October 1, 2015 by Gandalfe

One of my many instructors, this is a touching tribute to Phil.

Posted in Music | 2 Comments

RIP Phil Woods

Posted on September 30, 2015 by Gandalfe

“I have no illusions about being a genius musician. I pride myself on being a soldier, a warrior for jazz. I trained a lot of young people, and I’ve learned my lessons well. I’d like to keep the flame burning.” … Continue reading →

Posted in Jazz, Saxophone | Tagged | 1 Comment

How Important are You?

Posted on August 29, 2015 by Gandalfe

I’ve seen these two posts on Facebook this week and it kinda struck home. This first one is a data spew that I found fascinating: This next one is from the aspect of space, a place that always makes me … Continue reading →

Posted in Community, Health and wellness, Lifestyle, My World, Religon | 1 Comment

Henry Ford, Privilege and Gayness

Posted on August 24, 2015 by Gandalfe

Originally posted on Rottin' in Denmark:
In 1913, Henry Ford started paying his workers $5 per day, a huge amount for the time and a more than 100% raise from what they were previously earning. It’s seen as a milestone…

Posted in Music | Leave a comment

Sax Art du Jour ~ Mark Kazav

Posted on July 24, 2015 by Gandalfe

“Mark Kazav is an artist of distinct style and conceptual integrity. He at once challenges the viewer with vibrant color and bold images. Mark has developed his own personal style which is indeed colorful, visually stimulating and a pleasure to … Continue reading →

Posted in Art, Saxophone | Tagged | Leave a comment

Pricing your Band ~ A Lesson in Economics

Posted on July 17, 2015 by Gandalfe

My favorite things in life don’t cost any money. It’s really clear that the most precious resource we all have is time. ~ Steve Jobs I have been running the Microsoft Jumpin’ Jive Orchestra for approaching 12 years. Three to … Continue reading →

Posted in Band, Band Management, FAQ, Guides, My World, Quote | Tagged , | Leave a comment

Music Notation Software Update 2015

Posted on July 3, 2015 by Gandalfe

Saw this article and wanted to put it in my reading file. The bottom line: Upgrade bottom line: SIBELIUS If you use Sibelius 7, I think that’s a good version to stick with for now. (that’s the version I use … Continue reading →

Posted in FAQ, Guides, Music | Tagged , | Leave a comment

Belgium Sax Note

Posted on July 1, 2015 by Gandalfe

Gotta luv a saxophone loving country. And why not the country that brought us the creator of the sax. Antoine-Joseph “Adolphe” Sax was a Belgian musical instrument designer and musician who played the flute and clarinet, and is well known … Continue reading →

Posted in Saxophone | Tagged , | 1 Comment