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.

House Purchase Wants/Needs List

My son and his family have moved into their forever house. Before he did I gave him the list of criteria we have used over the years to pick our forever home, although three times we ended up moving. The … Continue reading

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Project Inspiration: Start a Sax Quartet

When I started to play saxophone again after a 25+ year hiatus I started looking for ensembles to perform with. I started with a community band to find connections into the local music scene. I really love big bands but … Continue reading

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That One Crazy Gig – Take 50

Our first gig of the year turned out to be both lucrative and interesting. It was billed as a birthday party for one of the couples who love and support our band. It was to take place the week after … Continue reading

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Wood or Metal Clarinet Prediction – 1920

Although the prediction that metal clarinets would become de rigueur proved to be false, this is an interesting read. Note, it was written in The Melody Maker in the late 1920’s by a well-known clarinet player, Ralph Dunbar.

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Last GOLD Big Band concert of the Year

As is my custom for this band, this was the last concert for 2022. I like to take November and December off to enjoy the holiday season. The rest of October we will be sightreading some charts to pick new … Continue reading

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Ring Security

We have installed two (of three) cameras from Ring. We are impressed with the simplicity of the installation, the crisp and clear videos and pictures, and the immediate ability to share the streams with the neighborhood and police. I have … Continue reading

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The Royal Room ~ Seattle

My big band, the Seattle Solid Gold, performed at the Royal Room in Seattle this week. No, really! It was in South Seattle which can be a sketchy part of town. Parking was … well, let’s just say challenging. But … Continue reading

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The Summer of Music 2022

As we exit the pandemic constraints and start performing again, there is a collective sigh of relief from the band and the audience. We happened upon a pro photographer, Brian Fioca who took some pictures this year. Life is good. … Continue reading

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Garage Door Replacement Upgrade

Our 15-year old garage door openers (two) finally gave out. Well, that is to say, mine did–it gets used the most. So we went for a quiet, belt driven model that could be accessed by our phone. If you do … Continue reading

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Tips on Making your House Safe from Burglaries

Originally posted on The Bis Key Chronicles:
Making your house safe from burglaries is something that I have preached to my family and friends. The trick is to make your house the hardest one to break into on your street.…

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