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.

My Instagram

Posted on July 22, 2018 by Gandalfe
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Community Garden

Posted on July 20, 2018 by Gandalfe

Garden as though you will live forever. ~ William Kent I was watering our community garden this year and wondering at the lush green happiness that the three plots have provided. This is our first year for the garden and … Continue reading →

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Saxophone Lamp

Posted on May 29, 2018 by Gandalfe

“It’s hard to throw away history. It was like you were throwing away a part of yourself.”  ~ Jenny Han, The Summer I Turned Pretty It happened during a theater pit job, I was schlepping 4 instruments and we had precious … Continue reading →

Posted in Everyday Science, Saxophone, Tips and Tricks | Tagged | 1 Comment

Selmer Reference 54 Limited Edition Hummingbird

Posted on May 8, 2018 by Gandalfe

From a recent for sale ad: A rare alto from 2005, … this limited edition saxophone commemorates the 50th anniversary of the passing of Charlie “Bird” Parker and features an iconic hummingbird engraving on the bell. The Reference 54 series … Continue reading →

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I found one of my fav band teachers, Mr. Robert Lake

Posted on March 30, 2018 by Gandalfe

Originally posted on The Bis Key Chronicles:
There are at least two of my favorite stories to tell about growing up in the mid-west and being a sax player. One is when the Urbandale, IA middle school teacher picked a jazzy…

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Swing Dance, this is why …

Posted on March 29, 2018 by Gandalfe

There are many kinds of dances, but all those requiring the participation of the two sexes have two characteristics in common: they are conspicuously innocent, and warmly loved by the vicious. ~ Ambrose Bierce We, and my we I mean … Continue reading →

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Little Free Library Arsonist ~ March 2018

Posted on March 18, 2018 by Gandalfe

Travis: Some fucking hooligans torched the community library box. The tree looks damaged too. David: Call the Sheriff’s Office. Arson is a felony. Sally: Oh no!! Lacresha: What a bunch of degenerates Mike: Did they get caught? I saw the … Continue reading →

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Frank Ticheli ~ An American Elegy

Posted on February 19, 2018 by Gandalfe

From Frank’s FB page: When I composed An American Elegy in response to the Columbine Shooting tragedy, I thought it would be a singular episode, or at least a rare one, in our nation’s history. Sadly, I am constantly reminded … Continue reading →

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Project Band ~ People Turnover

Posted on January 27, 2018 by Gandalfe

Jazz is about being in the moment. ~ Herbie Hancock Every year my band has turnover. People move, get new, harder jobs, get divorced, … you name it there are so many good reasons for leaving a good band. Some … Continue reading →

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The Music World: Should I, Could I Be a Part of It?

Posted on December 11, 2017 by Gandalfe

“I was obliged to be industrious. Whoever is equally industrious will succeed equally well.” ~ J.S. Bach Friend: Hey Jim.  Based in large part on your enthusiasm, I plan to drive over to Spokane on Thursday to horse trade for … Continue reading →

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