World Saxophone Day

It's World Saxophone Day today so being a sax player, it seems kind of relevant that I write my blog post about that. I started playing the sax when I was sixteen. I'm sure boys probably had something to do with the decision to take it up. I already played the clarinet and oboe so I guess the sax was a natural progression from there. 

Growing up I had a great time playing in orchestras, wind bands and jazz bands. I got to visit places I certainly wouldn't have done otherwise. 

But I'm not a jazz player. Stand me up there without any music in front of me and I haven't got a clue where to start. My husband, on the other hand, is also a sax player, but he doesn't read music, he only improvises. It's a skill I'm hugely envious of. 

I don't play much any more. I usually see instruments more in this condition these days

They arrive with me broken and leave in a much better state. So all those years of learning and practicing haven't completely gone to waste as I firmly believe that if I couldn't play these instruments to a high standard, how could I fix them for the professionals and teachers who bring them to me. 

It's been a day for baritones today. Could be piccolos tomorrow.
 
 
 

Remember, remember..

We've just been standing with our noses glued to the window trying to see the fireworks but they only seem to be going off when our backs are turned. I love bonfire night, I have endearing memories of watching firework displays, frozen to the bone, toes so cold you couldn't feel them despite copious pairs of socks. For the last couple of years we have let off fireworks in the back garden, and watched from indoors. Much warmer. I am such a wuss!

 When I lived in Leeds the fireworks used to start around mid October then pretty much carry on through to New Year. Very celebratory. 

But my reason for liking Bonfire night so much is that it's also my birthday, something my girls are infinitely more excited about than me. Maybe it's because they get to decorate cake

open presents, and blow out candles

And me, I have this for later

Happy days!