“Musicians don’t retire; they stop when there’s no more music in them.” — Louis Armstrong
I began playing the trombone in the 5th grade. Our music teacher, a violinist, started a band program which was quite unusual for an elementary school in Florida at that time. I continued playing regularly (and professionally) for 27 years.
I stopped playing altogether for a 20 year period and then played very sporadically for about 5 years. In 2023, I joined the Osceola Arts Big Band on the bass trombone chair. I didn’t realize how much I missed playing until I played on a regular basis in the OABB. We rehearsed once a week, and it was a delightful escape, especially during my final six months in Florida. Even when I’d almost talked myself into staying home, I left each rehearsal feeling rejuvenated and energized, eagerly anticipating the next one. The feel of the slide in my hands again, the sound of the section locking in… it was just wonderful. I remained in the band until my retirement from Disney in December 2024.
After moving to Roanoke in January 2025, I had the good fortune to join the Roanoke Valley Community Band under the direction of Barry Tucker, another trombonist. I continue to play with the RVCB today. I look forward to every rehearsal, playing my trombone and sitting next to fellow bass trombonist Ken Lyons. I am so grateful to be playing trombone again and I feel like I’ve rediscovered my original reason for playing an instrument—the simple joy of playing music with friends. I still have more music in me, Louis. Retirement can wait.