A lot has happened in the past four months since my last update!
On June 10th, I graduated the School of Music with class 11060, with a final audition score of 2.9. After graduating, my family and I spent the weekend touring Washington, D.C. and Arlington National Cemetery. We all had a great time seeing all those historic places!
A few weeks ago, I finally checked in -- and have since performed in a few ceremonies with -- the 1st Marine Division Band. I absolutely LOVE my job. Every day I've learned more and more about the idiosyncrasies of being a military musician; specifically, what goes on behind the scenes. To me, this job doesn't seem like work, I love it so much! And the fact I'm getting paid to do what I love is incredible. Because I live so close to base, my family has been able to see many of my ceremonies, which means I can share some videos and photos with you!
My first parade as a Marine musician: a July 4th celebration in Oceanside, CA.
My first big performance with the band...playing in a major league baseball stadium!
Currently, we are on our make-up 4th of July 96 hour liberty. Because the band often does ceremonies on holidays such as Independence and Veterans' Day, we don't get that time off like most others in the military do. So instead, we will get the following weekend or day off. Later this year, we will have a couple weeks off for leave, and also spend some time on the range, fulfilling our annual qualification requirements on the M16.
I deeply appreciate all of you, my readers. I know I haven't been very consistent lately with the updates, but when I log on occasionally and see the comments urging me to post, that makes me motivated to keep you updated! Please comment my blog...it helps me to know that I have people that read what I write! Anyway, if any of you have questions about my time in the band, feel free to ask! I will answer your questions to the best of my ability.
Until next time,
LCpl Rice
Saxophonist
1st Marine Division Band
