Modern Vespa

I've been playing trombone since the 4th grade. In high school I played with the University of Bridgeport Prep Division Jazz band, and performed at the Montreux Jazz Festival with it.

While I was in the Navy I kept my trombone with me on the ship, and sat in with lounge and jazz bands in many of the ports of call we visited.

I always had a corporate 'day job' after college, but I also worked as a full time musician in New York City for a little over 18 years; playing society affairs, weddings and such, before moving with my family to Israel.

I now play for my own enjoyment, and have been invited to join a local amateur orchestra when I retire in 4 years (my travel schedule is too hectic to commit to the rehearsal schedule now).

I don't know if there is a connection between PTW riding and music. But a disproportionate number of my musician friends also ride two wheels.

Never gets old.

Fud,

I just knew you were a rocker. Great photo of you on the base guitar.

Many similarities amoung all you garage band good folks. Initially getting together to jam. Then, actually going out and doing a few gigs. Same, same, we blew all our money on amps, microphones, and equipment.

Interesting event: We played mostly High School Dances in the Twin City area. Some young ladies who heard us, called to book us into a Hastings Minnesota Dance Hall. I think one of their fathers was a Free Mason and they paid us $300 to perform at the local Masonic Hall.

We showed up, set up, did a sound check and were ready when the doors opened. Well, five (admittedly attractive) gals approached the stage. I asked them what time did they schedule the dance? She said, on no, no one else, they hired us just for them alone.

Whoa, I want to be a hound dog man!!! It actually turned into a delightful evening. We played a little, smooched a little, and went out for a great meal.

Those were great days.

Bob Copeland

Bob, it seems like you did it right. You had all the fun and skipped the drudgery and heartbreak.