Euphonium

I started playing the euphonium when I was in the fourth grade at age nine. I was dwarfed by it.

I wanted to play the clarinet but we couldn't afford to rent one so we asked what instrument the school could provide free of charge and this was it. They provided one all the way until I graduated from High School.

I went to College as a music major, but then I did have to rent one. I only lasted a year in music (story too long to tell here).

Ever since that first day in fourth grade, when I would wish on a star, I always had the same wish...even as an adult. Please let me have my own horn.

One day, I was hit from behind at a stop light. I got a small settlement. With it I finally could afford my own horn. I bought an English Besson, the best one could buy. I played in community concert bands and orchestras while I lived in Maryland.

I donated my trombone to a school, but I will always keep my euphonium, whether I still have the chops or not.

I think I'll put it in my will and donate it to my old Jr. High School where my name is on a plaque on the wall.

Lovely days around this time of year. Highs in the upper 80'sF and lows around 55F. Sunny with slight breezes. I'm still waiting for my ocotillo, which I planted in May, to show signs of life. I have a feeling it just isn't going to make it.