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.

Bothell Crows

Posted on December 28, 2014 by Gandalfe

We learned to be patient observers like the owl. We learned cleverness from the crow, and courage from the jay, who will attack an owl ten times its size to drive it off its territory. But above all of them … Continue reading →

Posted in Bothell,, Community, Everyday Science, Oddities | Tagged , , | 4 Comments

Composition of Love and Family

Posted on December 24, 2014 by Gandalfe

Nothing goes by luck in composition. It allows of no tricks. The best you can write will be the best you are. ~ Henry David Thoreau Just before my senior year in high school, my dad was relocated to Minneapolis … Continue reading →

Posted in Family, Hobbies, Music, My World | Tagged , | 1 Comment

Composer Thomas Newman

Posted on December 21, 2014 by Gandalfe

Just sitting here enjoying the work of composer Thomas Newman. Newman has been nominated for twelve Academy Awards and three Golden Globes, and has won two BAFTAs, six Grammys and an Emmy Award. Newman was honored with the Richard Kirk … Continue reading →

Posted in Band, Movies, Music | Tagged , , , | Leave a comment

Seasonal Concerts started last night

Posted on December 6, 2014 by Gandalfe

There’s something about a holiday that isn’t all about how much money you spend. ~ Hilarie Burton The opening night of this year’s “In the Mood” theater production has come and gone. There were a lot of great moments and … Continue reading →

Posted in Band, Christmas, Holiday | Tagged , | Leave a comment

‘Twas the night before Christmas’ Mad Magazine #52 Jan 1960

Posted on December 6, 2014 by Gandalfe

‘Twas the night before Christmas,and all through the pad,Not a hipster was swinging, not even old Dad; The chimney was hung in the stocking routine,In hopes that “The Fat Man” would soon make the scene;The moon and the snow were, … Continue reading →

Posted in Christmas, Holiday, Jazz | Tagged | Leave a comment

“In the Mood” 2014 (theater)

Posted on December 3, 2014 by Gandalfe

As this show’s opening approaches, the band it really clicking so far. Our drummer had to walk out on us because he was over extended and it was causing health issues. But two subs peeked in. The actors are learning … Continue reading →

Posted in Band, Female vocalists, Holiday, Saxophone, Theater | Tagged , , , | Leave a comment

Ray Guyll, music teacher extraordinaire and my friend

Posted on November 2, 2014 by Gandalfe

To his many friends and all ships at sea, RAY HAS LEFT THE BUILDING! A great light has been extinguished.  I am so, so sorry. “SO LONG PAL.” ~ Bill Sheehan Suzy and I have lost an amazing music teacher … Continue reading →

Posted in Band, Community, Education, Heroes, Hobbies, Jazz, MJJO, Saxophone, WCB | Tagged , , , , | 5 Comments

Rain in the Emerald City

Posted on November 1, 2014 by Gandalfe

Sometimes we should express our gratitude for the small and simple things like the scent of the rain, the taste of your favorite food, or the sound of a loved one’s voice. ~ Joseph B. Wirthlin So much rain, lovely … Continue reading →

Posted in Coffee, Seattle | Tagged , | 1 Comment

Halloween, the slutty costume beckons

Posted on October 30, 2014 by Gandalfe

If human beings had genuine courage, they’d wear their costumes every day of the year, not just on Halloween. ~ Douglas Coupland It’s that time of the year again, when I think about the costumes that will define our year. … Continue reading →

Posted in Holiday, Nude, Too Spicy for some | Tagged , , , , | 1 Comment

Microsoft Will Start To Explain The Future Of Windows Tomorrow Morning

Posted on September 30, 2014 by Gandalfe

Here we go again …

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