Join Together with the Band (Class)
Written on Jun 6, 2010 at 5:42 PM
When my friend (and frequent presence in these entries throughout the years) Matt Tipton asked if I'd come out to Missoula, MT to play some tunes at his photo exhibit, I jumped at the chance to go visit a town I'd never played and always wanted to. The deal got a whole lot sweeter when Matt first suggested that I come in and visit the kids at Washington Middle School where he teaches Band, and then decided to chart my song 'Voodoo Bruise' for the students to learn, setting up a chance for a really special collaboration.

I drove out last Thursday, enjoying a gorgeous ten hour drive through the Columbia River Gorge, across eastern Washington, Idaho, and finally, through the winding mountain highways of western Montana. At 8am the next morning, I was on the clock.

With most of the classes I started out playing a few tunes for the kids, answering questions along the way. Matt (or rather, Mr. T.) gamely sat in on a small drum kit throughout the day, which was a treat for both me and the kids, I think. I worked with several periods of 6th and 7th graders who had been working on brass and woodwinds arrangements of 'Voodoo', and we had a great time working on tightening it up and recording it with me singing along.

In the middle of the day I played two period-long concerts for 8th grade band and choir students, again answering questions ranging from "Who are your influences?" to "Are you married?". Overall, the kids were terrific, with lots of thoughtful questions throughout the day and a great musical enthusiasm.

Anyone who tells you teaching isn't exhausting hasn't actually done it. In fact, I didn't even 'teach', and I was still whipped by the end of the day.

After the school day was over we headed straight to the Dark Room, a camera shop with a gallery downstairs, to set up for Matt's show. His photography was stunning- beautiful images from nature he witnessed on his outdoor adventures in some of the country's most beautiful locales. I enjoyed just playing a nice, relaxing background set while the people filled the room and took in the sights. By the end of the day I had been playing guitar, singing, and talking for 12 hours straight. Whew!