Convention Report

I've just returned from an international convention that isn't even on this continent very often, and I only had to drive 4 hours to get there! This was an international gathering of oboists and bassoonists with many choices of recitals, lectures, and exhibit areas each day. I renewed old friendships, made some new friends, and got to sit at the feet of some of my idols. This was my first time to participate in the Massed Double Reed Band performance on the last day of the convention. Because most of us oboe and bassoon players grow up in an environment in which we're the only one in our performing group or one of a couple of double reeds, it is quite a power trip to be in one "hugemongous" group of 'em! There were 55 of us on stage. I think we could generate nuclear power with a little practice!