| I had a really good time at the National Anthem gig tonight! We had a sound check at 5:30 PM and I was pulling into the parking lot by 5 PM. I had a chance to play a few notes in the Guest Services area while we were waiting for the other players to arrive. When four of us (out of five) were there, we were escorted downstairs at US Airways Center. Chuck, you were right! It wasn’t nearly as cold as I thought it was going to be!
We talked some logistics with the woman that was coordinating our “staging” on the ice, and we all decided that instead of trying to fit on the smaller carpet square, we would go for the big one (easily 10X8 ft). As we waited for them to set up the carpet, I was playing a few more notes, when the fifth player showed up. It was none other than TMer Rogerio! What a treat it was to have him join our ensemble!
After two run throughs of the Anthem (to see if we would sound better with one or two mics) we were escorted back to the “Family Room” where we waited until game time. It was really nice to just get a chance to talk with everyone and get to know Rogerio a little better. I think he will be joining us for these Anthem jobs in the future. I’m looking forward to playing something other than the SSB with him!
The Anthem went great at game time, and while it was loud in the Arena, I didn’t really even notice an echo or a delay from the sound system. Everyone seemed to really enjoy us. It’s fun doing a job like this every once in a while.
My friend Tim Moke who arranges these jobs for us brought his camera, and when he sends me a picture, I’ll attach it here.
All in all, a very successful outing!
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Derek Reaban
Tempe, Arizona |