H.S. days...the music side of it.

Not most folk know that I went to PPAS and played the alto saxophone. Most folk know of the school because Alicia Keys graduated there as well as other actors, and musical theater folk. I did get to meet her when she visited randomly during my junior year. I remember coming into school late with my usual bacon, egg and cheese sandwich and a Tropicana. Not only was I surprised that I had to report to the gym for an assembly, which rarely happened, but I was the only late one walking in to the assembly. I remember everyone looking at me as I opened the door. For a brief second Alicia and I stared into each others eyes and then I was told to find a seat. Back to my music thing.

Four years of jazz band definitely changed my outlook on music. The best/funniest part of the instrumental music program was my music teacher, Mr. Kelvyn "Kelvynator" Bell. I wish class had been a reality show because the ratings would of been through the roof. We had the craziest group of personalities who were being taught by an even crazier personality. Mr. Bell would go off on his rants of when he had his funk band jamming out in the 90's or just shout to me, "Boy, I dont want to hear the macaroni, just play the damn song," or "Boy I'm the STL MO314," as he swayed his dreads all up in my personal space. Of course you know my reaction was more of, "and I'm from BK all Day, Everyday." Aside from all the jive, he actually threw some knowledge my way on music and on life. I was surprised to find this video of him on youtube. He was very into funk music as you can hear but also had some nasty chops.

Through all the broken music stands, comedy hour/rehearsals, wrong notes played on purpose, and freestyle sessions, I still miss those days. I have to find some of my performance videos.
More to come.