Derek Reaban

I’m playing the National Anthem with a trumpet ensemble tomorrow night at US Airways Center (formerly America West Arena). This is for a hockey game (Roadrunners - Not Coyotes). I’ve been to hockey games in the past, but I’ve never had to play my horn, and I’ve never actually been on the ice.

What should I expect? Any tips on things that I can do to make it a good experience? I have a 5 PM sound check with the group and then the game doesn’t start until 7 or 7:30 PM. I’m not a cold weather person, so hanging out in 30-40F temps for several hours is not something I’m looking forward to.

Brrr...

Solar Bell

I don't think the arena temperature will be in the 30's or 40's. At the Joe, for Red Wings games we don't even need our coats on.

In any event, there will probably be a warm place for you while you're waiting. Maybe keep your horn in your jacket.

I always keep my mouthpiece in my hand and my hand in my pocket until I play if I'm playing outdoors.

Congrats on the Anthem gig!

Play well!

-cw-

Manny Laureano

Play like it's the gig of a lifetime.

Ignore the echo! Once you start, play and play and play.

ML

Derek Reaban

Chuck and Manny,

Thanks! I know the music will go well. I’ve played center court at the Arena in the past for a Suns game (love the silence before our first note!), but I’ve never played on ice before. The echo wasn’t all that bad, and our ensemble sound on the floor was enough to focus in on to not have the echo be a distraction. I have visions of all of us stepping out onto the ice and sliding all over the place (I can still see that poor girl on TV that was to do the Anthem at a hockey game a season or two ago go crashing down!).

Now that I think about it, there is a nice (warm) room that we can hang out in prior to game time. I’m just worried about the 10-15 minutes prior to when we play, when we will be standing by the ice. I sure hope you’re right about the temperature of the Arena Chuck! That would make my day if my teeth aren’t chattering!

We’re wearing all black (tuxes with black shirts), so I should be warm enough. I’ll definitely keep the mouthpiece in my hand in my pocket.


Thanks!

Solar Bell

I doubt if you will be standing on the ice also.

They should have a padded carpet big enough for all of you, and they will put it down JUST prior to your playing. (so they don't hurt the surface)

Don't worry, it will go well with no discomfort.

Also, because of the glass surrounding the rink, the sound will come back at you faster than it did at the basketball game.

Let us know Wednesday how it went.

-cw-

Tootsall

Derek, just one thing; if you see a hockey player with his front teeth missing coming straight at you full speed while dropping his stick and shaking off his gloves, GET THE HECK OUT OF THERE!

40cal

Or bring a trumpet that can be used as an impact weapon to defend yourself

Martin Williams

Ohio State Marching band, we do script Ohio on the ice every year, my biggest tip for playing on ice is to be sure not to play into the glass!!

Derek Reaban

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!

Eclipsehornplayer

Good Show Derek!

They are fun....

Can't wait to see the pic...