Reflecting on the Ride

I never considered myself the sentimental type but I must admit that it‘s hard not to be as a senior.  Everything that happens this year, is happening for the last time.  This past Saturday was my last time participating in the GA Jazz Cabaret. While it is always a struggle for me to get to practice at 7:30 am, twice a week, year round, I can not help but reflect on my growth as a musician over the years and how those early morning practices improved my musicianship. As I listened to many of my friends belt their improv solos, I will always look back with fondness on the many friendships I made through the Jazz Ensemble. It has been a great ride Mr. Horner! Congratulations LS, MS, and US Jazz Ensembles and Patriot Select on performances well done!  

- Michael H.

Improv: When you leave your fears behind....

How often does someone get the opportunity to just let it rip?  Such is the art of improv.  Before spring break, the LS, MS, and US Jazz Ensembles along with the Patriot Select participated in GA’s annual Jazz Cabaret.  The dining hall transformed into an intimate coffeehouse with tables lined with checkerboard tablecloths and lit votive candles twinkling in red glass containers, as the performers’ families and friends enjoyed listening to various musical groups. 

Improv is intimidating at first because in order to be successful at it, all inhibitions must go.  Feeling the rhythm of the music and playing from the heart, without music, of course, makes improv exciting.  Messing up is inevitable but it usually goes unnoticed because there is no set music to follow.  The more you do it, the more comfortable you get.  It is really great.  Everyone should try improv, one way or another!  

-Michael