Originally Posted by Derek Reaban

John,

What a great story! Thanks for posting the details of this very special event in your life. I enjoyed every word!

On another note, I love that 2nd trumpet part to the Hallelujah Chorus. It seems like every time that I’m hired to play the Messiah, I’m hired as 2nd trumpet. There's just something special about that part (especially those octave jumps at the end) – you played it on your C trumpet, yes? I also played the Messiah this season, but with a very small chamber group (only 1 trumpet). As you mentioned in your post, it’s a little odd to be playing a different part that you’re used to - but very satisfying at the same time.

Thanks again for sharing this.