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Had to leave my bands

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Well folks playing drums just does not pay all the bills and with a growing family work is always a constant now. That being said the government agency I worked with back in Raleigh didn't come through on their word.

Being smart I had several backup plans in place with many offers. Of all the offers though I found the best here in southern Maryland. I was keeping it somewhat quiet as other life events (son was in hospital) were much more important.

Anyway I had such a great time with Spiralfire and Poision Anthem (my two old bands) and wish I could have stayed on longer. Family comes first though and the opportunity I have now would not come along again. Had there been enough resources to support my family through music for at least a year I would have hit the road again.

So folks that is why I slimmed the collection down a bit since I have not been playing out as much. I have been trying to find another group to join but no rush and no real leads as of yet.

For now just playing along to my favorite jazz albums and practicing away.

Manny

Sonor SQ2 10 14 18 American Walnut
L.A. Camco 12 14 18 Moss Green
Gretsch Round Badge 12 14 18 w/snare Champagne
Gretsch Round Badge 12 14 20 w/snare Burgundy

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HhdcpleTKlI

82nd ABN DIV OEF OIF Combat Infantry Veteran
Posted on 10 years ago
#1
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Well, keep playing regardless buddy! You sound like a good fella, keeping your family first. I had to make that decision several years ago, and although I miss playing with a full time group, in no way does that compare to being there for your wife, kids, family, etc. And.. not many people I know are able to say that they making a living at playing music and only music. Of all my music buddies, I only know 2 who are full time musicians.. one is blessed to play upright bass for Billy Joe Shaver, the other teaches and plays percussion in broadway type productions in Houston, TX. As it is, in the long run, I think your decision will pan out great for you and your family.

-Justin

"People might look at you a bit funny, but it's okay. Artists are allowed to be a bit different."- Bob Ross

"After silence, that which comes closest to expressing the inexpressible is music..." - Aldous Huxley
Posted on 10 years ago
#2
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Manny - Do what you have to do for your family first and everything else will find its place. Being in-between bands is a chronic condition for most musicians. Being in a successful working band is even rarer. After 50+ years I've learned to take it all one day at a time and in stride. Go with the flow. Right now, for you, the family demands attention. When it's time to play again an opportunity will present itself and if you've been keeping your chops up, you'll be ready for it. All of it in rhythm with the Universe.

Do what you have to do brother. Everything else will follow...

John

Too many great drums to list here!

http://www.walbergandauge.com/VintageVenue.htm
Posted on 10 years ago
#3
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It is ashame how military and ex military are now treated, Manny you are a solider you know what is important in life family is first and foremost. It all happens for a reason, keep your head high it will all come around.

Your drummers not much good is he!? What you need is someone that's as good as me. ! John Henry Bonham !!
Posted on 10 years ago
#4
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I feel compassion here having been going through employment problems myself. Hopefully you can still find it to play sometimes.

I love the jazz era
Posted on 10 years ago
#5
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Praying for you and your family, Manny! Take care of them first. Drums and drumming will always be with you anyway!

http://www.vintagedrumbug.com/
Cause you got the bug dont'cha?
https://www.facebook.com/VintageDrumBug
https://twitter.com/VintageDrumBug
Posted on 10 years ago
#6
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It's all part of the cycle of life. Oh and by the way your buddy Alan in Texas got my the Gretsch 20" black nitron bass drum thanks to u.

1966 ludwig club date champagne sparkle 20-12-14
1979 gretsch black nitron 20-12-13-16
1972 Rogers blue onyx 20-12-13-16
2012 gretsch renown 57 18-12-14
1980's gretsch Ice blue 22-12-13-16
1980's gretsch Ice blue 18-10-14
1972 slingerland silver sparkle 22-12-13-14-16
Posted on 10 years ago
#7
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You'll find your way back soon. Just do not sell your kit! I can't count the times now over the years I've had that conversation of "I used to be a Drummer" followed by "I sold my kit years ago" followed by "I never got round to buying a new one". These aren't all bedroom boys and girls but people who gigged too.

Good luck fella.

40's Slingerland Radio King WMP
60's Ludwig Downbeat Silver Spark
70's Ludwig Super Classic White Marine
60's Gretsch RB Champaigne Spark
70's Rogers Big R Black
90's Sonor Hilite (Red maple)
00's DW Collectors Broken Glass
00's DW Jazz Series Tangerine Glass
10's DW Collectors (Acrylic) Matt Black Wrap
10's PDP Concept Wood Hoop kit (Maple)
Proud ambassador of the British Drum Company
Posted on 10 years ago
#8
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From lrcollura

It's all part of the cycle of life. Oh and by the way your buddy Alan in Texas got my the Gretsch 20" black nitron bass drum thanks to u.

Is that good or bad?

Don't worry folks I will always keep about 3 kits and 2 sets of cymbals around! Actually have a cool Sonor kit in the works as we speak. I know the band stuff will come back around. I guess for me its harder to stay motivated to practice when I have no "practical" application.

I might start giving some lessons again. Trying to teach always challenged me to play better.

Manny

Sonor SQ2 10 14 18 American Walnut
L.A. Camco 12 14 18 Moss Green
Gretsch Round Badge 12 14 18 w/snare Champagne
Gretsch Round Badge 12 14 20 w/snare Burgundy

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HhdcpleTKlI

82nd ABN DIV OEF OIF Combat Infantry Veteran
Posted on 10 years ago
#9
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I suggest you check and see if there are any community bands or orchestras that you can join. Even though there is usually no compensation you get to associate with other musicians and it helps keep up your playing and reading skills. Another option is local jam sessions. If none you maybe able to start one yourself. I know doing what I suggest seems difficult to do once you have had reasonable success with some very good musicians but it is well worth the effort. Good luck to you Manny. Take it from an old, been around the block part time drummer, there is a lot of opportunity to play out there and everything will be OK. Jerry.

Posted on 10 years ago
#10
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