Busy weekends

This past weekend was definitely a busy one. Events ranged from taking 1 child to compete for his school's academic team to another going catholic ccd classes. While my wife, Felisa, was busy doing presentations for the Laredo Independent School District, I tried to clean house, go to Gold's Gym, clean house, and write music.

By the way, I am extremely proud of my children. Willie made the 2008 junior high all region band on trumpet and recently placed 2nd in the UIL Dictionary skills in academics (also 6th in math). Tammy has been doing great work on both her ballet and hip hop dancing. She is also is showing a lot of talent in theatre. I think she could be the next Katherine Hepburn.

I am very excited about my newest project. I am collaborating with percussion arranger/composer Eric Rath. We are putting together several marching band music packages. The first one is entitled "Generations" and includes some really exciting stuff. The second one is a show of music by Camille Saint Saens. All I can say is keep checking my website for updates.

Eric is an exceptionally gifted writer and I feel that we are going to create some great arrangements and original works. I believe we are going to use the name of D&E Musical Arrangements, or something similar.

Also, I have been arranging for an all age drum and bugle corps called the Presidents. This corps has been trying to get on the field for the last 3 or 4 years. I feel we are going to finally make it. The percussion arranger is Jeremy Kirk. He is another talented arranger whom I am excited to collaborate with. He already sent me the battery parts for the opener I arranged.

I sent several new works to TRN, as well as recordings. Another great thing is Grand Mesa is closer to releasing "Fanfare for a New Generation". I am very excited about this work and I cannot wait to finally see it in print.

Away from home and composing, my students at Los Obispos are great to teach. I am extremely proud of each and everyone of them. We've been able to start a jazz band and mariachi. My concert band students are improving everyday.

I'll write more at a later day. Until then, adios.