Monday, July 8, 2013

June | July Update!

This summer is flying by!  I can't believe it's already July and I've not updated my news since May!  I'm not complaining though as I love to be busy!

As I said in my post at the beginning of summer, I'm now focusing on my teaching exclusively.  That does not mean I'm not performing live anymore.  It simply means I'm not performing live on a regular basis.  The grind of playing every Friday and Saturday night got to be too much for me.  I had been doing it more or less over the course of the last nine years.  The weekends off from gigging have proven to be more enjoyable than I could have imagined.  The time with my family has been precious and I know I could never go back now that I know what I was missing out on!

The weekend of June 15th was an absolutely amazing weekend.  On Friday I taught and was able to spend the evening with my family.  On the 15th, I taught in the morning then subbed in my friend's band and had the opportunity to play with Ric Fierabracci!  Ric has played with many of my heroes including Chick Corea and Dave Weckl (to name a few!)  After the gig, I screamed down to Dana Point for cocktails and Basile the Greek Comedian to celebrate my wife's birthday.  Sunday was spent celebrating Father's Day with my family poolside!

Here's a picture of the band from 06/15:



I mistakenly thought that by cutting out my weekend gigs I'd have more time.  Although I have more time for my family which I'm beyond grateful for, I'm no less busier than before.  I'm teaching six days a week and am blessed with a full roster of students.  Unlike the past several years though, I am making sure to take some time off this summer.  I took the 4th of July off and spent it with family by the pool, BBQing and watching the Lake Mission Viejo fireworks.  I'm also taking two other family trips this summer. 

I hope everyone has a healthy, happy and prosperous summer!  I know I'm very grateful for my family, my health, my students and my life.  Remember to check my website frequently for new transcriptions!