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.

Five Reasons to Quit Complaining

Posted on July 22, 2011 by Gandalfe

“Don’t take life too seriously. You’ll never get out alive.” ~ Bugs Bunny Sometimes I’m wont to complain. Walking the halls I’ve heard some complaining this week that makes my complaints seem trivial. But there a lot to complain about; … Continue reading →

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WORK Stats Worldwide Infographic

Posted on July 21, 2011 by Gandalfe

Prepare to be surprised by the statistics presented in this simple PSFK: What’s Work Like Around the World Infographic that I have excerpted here. “One thing we have in common across the world is work, even though significant differences in … Continue reading →

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United States Tax Lies and Distortions?

Posted on July 20, 2011 by Gandalfe

“I like to pay taxes. With them, I buy civilization.” ~ Oliver Wendell Holmes “The fact is, we pay for the lifestyle we expect. Without taxes, our lifestyles would be totally different and much harder. America would be a third … Continue reading →

Posted in Government, In the news..., Lifestyle, Money, My World, Politics | Tagged , , , , , , | 2 Comments

NEWS ACTION ALERT: U.S. Military Bands Face Potentially Devastating Budget Cut

Posted on July 17, 2011 by Gandalfe

The following is an open letter from the American Bandmaster’s Association and echoes the sentiment of the College Band Directors National Association. Now it is our turn to support the nation’s top music makers. “The House of Representatives has voted … Continue reading →

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Always look on the Bright Side of Life

Posted on July 14, 2011 by Gandalfe
Posted in Health and wellness, Humor, Movies, Music | Tagged , | 1 Comment

Comparing the Shakuhachi, Okuralo, and concert flutes

Posted on July 9, 2011 by Gandalfe

One of my most interesting musical friends, Toby shares this with us from the alt.flute alias. Those of you who know me, know I have dabbled with the flute for years, never quite getting traction as I have also been … Continue reading →

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Playtrack: Don’t Harsh My Mellow

Posted on July 9, 2011 by Gandalfe

From the things guys think about file, I’m listening to music while I make my way through a title from my reading list. Thought I’d share it and a nice photo with my gentle readers:   This moment will pass … Continue reading →

Posted in Art, Health and wellness, Lifestyle, Music, Nude, Panties, Too Spicy for some | Tagged , , , , | Leave a comment

Mouthpiece Terminology 101

Posted on July 8, 2011 by Gandalfe

I was talking to some friends about sax mouthpieces and I realized that we needed to standardize some terms. I found this very descriptive and accurate diagram on one of those ubiquitous music forums and thought I’d place it here … Continue reading →

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Column Five: Goodbye Wallets

Posted on July 7, 2011 by Gandalfe
Posted in Culture, Economics, Education, Infographic, Lifestyle, Technology | Tagged , , | 5 Comments

Getting Hired by Microsoft ~ the Zoosk way

Posted on July 5, 2011 by Gandalfe

“I’d rather be a failure at something I love than a success at something I hate.” ~ George Burns Over the years many, many family and friends have sent me their resume to get hired by Microsoft. I’m embarrassed to … Continue reading →

Posted in Bucket List, Education, Getting a Job, Gigs, Health and wellness, Microsoft, My World, Quote | Tagged , , , , | Leave a comment