Mirages, Apocalypses, and Other Minor Inconveniences…
Hey!
I am Donny (AKA Matt Donaldson – 3rd trombone in Wellington Brass for the Wereld Muziek Concours in Kerkrade.)
As one of the newer members of the band, I feel I am surrounded by talent. I have learnt some useful chess tips from my section leader, Mark. I have also gained great wisdom and equanimity from substitute 4th trombone, Mark Mark. Personally, I've settled into the band well. Within a few rehearsals I achieved a major milestone by asking two good questions in the same rehearsal. These were also my first questions in the band, making it something of a historic occasion. Witnesses described the atmosphere as emotional.
As a section, we're sounding better every rehearsal, which is fortunate given I spend a considerable amount of time being told to play louder. Curiously, despite receiving this instruction on numerous occasions, I struggle to actually play louder. This phenomenon is particularly unusual because excessive volume is generally considered the default setting for bass trombone players. I must be a freak of nature? However, I have been told once that “one low C” was heard. I really do enjoy such compliments from Dave, that is, before he clarifies it was for the other, much more deserving Matt.
The trombones enjoyed a particularly productive rehearsal under Reuben's conducting. By "productive", I mean Clara and I spent most of the evening trying (and failing) to stop laughing at absolutely everything. Reuben's patience was tested, messages were received requesting that the trombones be quiet, and by the end of the rehearsal I was extremely grateful that Dave Bremner was elsewhere. I suspect his solution would have involved immediate transportation to the depths of brass band hell.
Musically, Apokalypsis continues to be a highlight. I'm thoroughly enjoying grunting out the pedal notes, although I haven't quite reached the point where I can tackle all the truly filthy low stuff with complete confidence. For now, some of those duties remain in the capable hands of Pat (4th trombone), who I am eagerly counting down the days to see in the Netherlands.
With Kerkrade now just around the corner, I am buzzing with excitement. The music is coming together, travel plans are falling into place, and remarkably I am yet to forget my music, instrument, or something equally important (brains?). I'm sure I'll have plenty of opportunity to do so in a couple of weeks.
Photo of Donny during rehearsal when Dave asked him to plug his instrument in. Courtesy of Daisuke Hayashi.