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.

Secret Loves

Posted on September 25, 2010 by Gandalfe

As we age in life, we pick up baggage. Baggage such as things that make us happy that we would not necessarily share with everyone. For example, if you like polkas, and I’ve not met anyone who does <smile>, would … Continue reading →

Posted in Health and wellness | 3 Comments

Truth-out: 911, Since That Day

Posted on September 13, 2010 by Gandalfe

If you only took the time to read one article about 911 this week, I’d recomment this one from Since that Day by Truth-out.org. Nine years, four national elections, two wars and two presidents since that day, and where are … Continue reading →

Posted in News and politics | Leave a comment

MJB featuring Darren Motamedy

Posted on September 10, 2010 by Gandalfe

In July the Microsoft Jazz Band played at Big Daddy’s in Woodinville and featured Darren Motamedy on soprano and tenor sax and Dennis Haldane on trumpet. It turned out to be the hottest day of the year, but the band … Continue reading →

Posted in Band, Jazz, MJB, Music | Leave a comment

Metal Assemblage Light Sculptures

Posted on August 25, 2010 by Gandalfe

I find this kind of art fascinating with a dream-like quality. You have to luv that this stuff didn’t end up in landfills. About S. D. Kogan: “Eventually, my designs evolved as I started combining musical instruments with other recycled … Continue reading →

Posted in Art, Everyday Science, Music Instruments, Style, Toys | Tagged , , | Leave a comment

Bicycles make me smile…

Posted on August 24, 2010 by Gandalfe
Posted in Bicycles, Health and wellness, Hobbies | Leave a comment

The Last Summer Concert for MJB

Posted on August 22, 2010 by Gandalfe

We were lucky to get a fabulous day at the Ballard Locks, complete with a vintage car show on the side. Lisa took some pictures that I thought I would share with you. Kudos for Lisa and a tip of … Continue reading →

Posted in Band, Community, Jazz, Saxophone, Seattle | Tagged | 2 Comments

Albert System Clarinet, in a nutshell

Posted on August 17, 2010 by Gandalfe

Terry Stibal, an accomplished musician and historian, regales us at the Woodwind Forum with yet another synopsis from the musical world. The pictures are from the Edinburgh University Collection of Historic Musical Instruments. A long time ago, there was this … Continue reading →

Posted in Clarinet, Collectable, Music Instruments, Vintage | 15 Comments

Conn F Mezzo Soprano Sax ~ A look back in history…

Posted on August 9, 2010 by Gandalfe

Randy Emerick, a very good friend of mine and an aficionado of saxophone (as a professional musician, instrument repair tech, and sax collector extraordinaire) send me these two blasts from the past. He knows I have played the Conn-o-sax and … Continue reading →

Posted in Collectable, F Mezzo, Saxophone, Vintage | Tagged , | 1 Comment

For My Dad

Posted on August 5, 2010 by Gandalfe

Here’s iPad case that we talked about today. I know you like your $14 one, but I’m just sayin’…  :O) So pretty that it almost makes one want an iPad, eh?

Posted in Hobbies | 1 Comment

MoveOn.org: Top 5 Social Security Myths

Posted on July 29, 2010 by Gandalfe

From MoveOn.org: Rumors of Social Security’s demise are greatly exaggerated. But some powerful people keep spreading lies about the program to scare people into accepting benefit cuts. Myth: Social Security is going broke. Reality: There is no Social Security crisis. … Continue reading →

Posted in Politics | Leave a comment