Posted by Ex-Kansas, Oklahoma, TubaPlayer on November 23, 1999 at 09:30:31:
In Reply to: Performance Major and Marching Band? posted by Jeff Baker on November 12, 1999 at 14:23:20:
Hey,
If the tuba teacher you are referring to is Ted Cox, then you just need to continue to march in the Band.
Old "Ted" has an inflated ego. He said to me once, I transferred from Arizona State University to Indiana because as a freshman, he was better than everybody there. Give me a break!! Graduate Students of Perantoni probably kicked his skinny tuba playing butt and ran him out of there.
And then, with his lip rolled up, he went to Indiana and cried to Phillips. He was given a scholarship just to shut him up. There is no doubt that Cox is an OK tuba player that has been in the right place at the right time. But, any teacher that tells a student that he should think about having a "hard on" when playing Wagner should have his head examined. You cannot tell a student something as perverted as that. That is unethical and makes you out to be a less of a role model.
Well, Jeff. You should follow your heart. If you want to march in the Pride then do so. You will only see the "COck" for a couple of years. Actually, if you play in a wise manner, the exertion of Marching band will probably improve your air support and stamina. Always look for the good in something and take advantage of it. Do not listen to someone who is close minded and a hermit who thinks he is a "god" that is untouchable. WHere is his C.D.'s. Why isn't he playing in the Chicago Symphony? Maybe his judgement and impaired and he is "NOT ALL THAT".
This is your college experience. You are paying the money. Do what you want to do? Your college days are only a short part of your life and you had better enjoy them while you can. Please reevalute your career goals and do not be dilluted by a dream. Do something that is practical that can make you a living. Tuba playing will always be there. Working for Taco Bell trying to save money for a Hirshbrunner and feed your family is not very practical. 10 hours of practice a day in hopes of that audition will only put you in the poorhouse. And when the 150 guys show up that sound as good as you, remember, there is always someone who can beat you.
Best Wishes,
Ex-Kansas/Oklahoma TuBa Player