Spring is finally here and not a moment too soon! Hopefully nice weather will be on our side for Homegrown.

I am set to go into the studio in May to record my upcoming album. I'll be recording with Rich Mattson at his studio in Sparta, MN. I am very anxious to get going but there is a lot to accomplish before it gets released. I'm not going to set an official release date just yet, but my rough estimation would be sometime this summer. I'm in the process of getting a backing band together to not only help me record the album, but to play some shows so keep an eye out for that.

I was saddened to learn that my junior high band director, Mr. Baumgarten, passed away. Mr. B. was a really great teacher. My fondest memories of Mr. B. were of his excitement and enthusiasm for music. He was so proud of me when I took on that tympani solo and played at one of our concerts and again in state competition. His confidence in me meant more than he'll know and it's inspired me to always play my best. I think of my experiences in band often. All my band directors were great, but Mr. B. is the one who got me started and I'll always be grateful for his guidance. My prayers and thoughts go out to his family and everyone who knew him. It was a privelege to have had him as my director and teacher, Thank you for everything Mr. B!