Today, like most Tuesdays, I have a lesson with Rick Shaw. He is an amazing bass player who graduated from Eastman. His playing credits include: Gordon Goodwin's Big Phat Band, Johnny Mathis, Buddy Rich, Julio Iglesias, Aaron Neville, etc. It means a lot to me that he takes time out of his busy schedule every week to come to Riverside to teach lessons at R.C.C. He has helped me break out of the box that I've built around myself over several years and changed the way I approach the instrument.
Perhaps my favorite part of our lessons is when we just talk about life. He frequently reminds me of the role I play in the lives of two wonderful boys and to not take those relationships for granted. We talk about how you can get away with doing certain things simply beacause children are present. When was the last time those of you without children ran through the sprinklers in the front yard or made chin people? I made chin people about two weeks ago and ran through the sprinklers several time when it was warmer. Robbie and Cameron allow my inner child to show his face without fear of scrutiny. Talking with Rick every week helps reinforce the importance of the role I play in Robbie and Cameron's lives and the role they play in mine. Thank you, Rick, musically and personally.
1 comment:
Oh, Bill Bill Bill. Honey, your "inner child" is so just barely under the surface I can see the outline of it's silly little nose! You're also doing really well learning how to be the grown up for TheGuys. Just remember to give them room to be normal little boys (read: pokey, selfish, naughty, hyper, loud, wild, dirty, rude, silly, potty-fixated, bigger than life) These are the things that help them learn to be confident men of courage and character.
Post a Comment