Klarinet Archive - Posting 000161.txt from 1995/03

From: Andrew Grenci <AGrenci@-----.COM>
Subj: Re: Re> Military band clarinetists
Date: Sun, 5 Mar 1995 22:18:44 -0500

It seems that there have been times, i.e. war, when many great players spent
some time in a military band. I'm quite certain the names Wright, Gigliotti
and Gennusa should be included on a list of such. Perhaps others could name
many more of their generation.
Many of us in military bands today hope to someday join the ranks of those
who have moved on to bigger and better things. Until then, the bands offer
professional musical employment in a very tough job market. I am a new member
of the Coast Guard Band (6 months), and can say that I have seldom in my
life/career had more time to concentrate on my playing. After years of study
leading to three degrees, and more years of being a "starving artist", I am
finally in a position in which my primary job is playing music.
I mention these things for the benefit of any young players who may be
noticing that most of the clarinet jobs listed in the International Musician
in recent months are military band jobs. No, it's not the "dream job", nor
does it have to be the last job. But, it offers a lot of playing, the
comradeship of other fine players, a secure income, enough free time for
interesting free-lance work and, perhaps best of all, a peace of mind that
lets you concentrate on what is really important in music and in life. (I
have to admit I even enjoy the idea, which some might think quaint, of
patriotic service.)

Wow, this is as good as a therapy session!

Andrew Grenci
Bass Clarinetist, U. S. Coast Guard Band