Couldn't resist that title. Anyway, yes, I am back home after a wonderful trip to KMEA in Wichita, KS. I flew in Thursday and just barely missed the Bethel College Wind Ensemble's performance of Lauda! Ahhrrrrg! However, everyone I talked to raved about the Bethel Wind Ensemble, so I'm very happy for them and congratulate them on what sounds like a fantastic performance. My hat goes off to my good friend Timothy Shade who not only conducted that fine ensemble, but also played euphonium, trombone, and ran 2 clinics at the conference! He is an inspiring musician, full of love and passion for music, and I really enjoy working with him. I also had a great time visiting with Tim's wife Gabby, Adrian Sandi (1st clarinet in the Wichita Symphony and a friend from ESM) and composer Derek Jenkins. Derek, Tim, and I presented a clinic Friday morning on composing and commissioning, and here is a link to a handout I put together on the subject.
It was also great to meet new friends and colleagues and I look forward to some exciting new projects in the future. Hopefully I will be back to KMEA soon!