WELCOME TO OUR NEW FORMAT. PLAYIN YOUR DREAMS AND‘TAKE’ 5 WILL BEGIN ITS NEW ‘THE ROAD NOT TAKEN’. WITH OUR NEW MISSION STATEMENT IN OUR PREVIOUS POST, I AM GRATEFUL AND EXCITED FOR OUR NEW DIRECTION. WHEN THE FORCES DICTATE, WE WILL BE SHARING AND PROMOTING THE DREAMS OF OTHERS IN CERTAIN SEGMENTS OF OUR WEBSITE.

Forces have dictated this new path. During my journey since the physical passing of Nick, I have discovered that when outside forces move you, it is more harmonious to flow with them than to fight against them. How many times have you done otherwise?

Even though, we find these outside forces frightening as they push us into the world of the unknown, we can learn to use these forces to shape the dreams of our lives. There is no age limit on dreams. However, how one treats oneself as one journey through life will have an effect on future dreams as one age.

Your daily decisions should be based on the following 3 simple principles.

1. YOU ARE THE MOST IMPORTANT PERSON IN THE WORLD.
2. YOU ARE YOUR OWN BEST FRIEND.
3. WHEN IN DOUBT, REMEMBER TO ‘TAKE 5’. ASK YOURSELF TWO QUESTIONS.
   1. WHAT’S IN IT FOR ME?
   2. WHAT CONSEQUENCES CAN THERE BE?

Only you can protect your dreams. If you do not, others will then shape them for you and ensnarl you within their dreams. Your life will become dreamless with no directions or goals. Besides protecting one’s dreams, one must also be willing to promote and share their dreams with others.

A dream is just a wish, if it is not written down. A dream is just a wish, if it is not shared with others. Do all dreams come true? No. It could be a sign that a different dream is needed to achieve the results that one seeks.

Life is just about results. There are no winners or losers in this Game called ‘Life’. Each person has the ability to PLAYIN YOUR DREAMS.

This post is about 11,000 words. A maiden voyage awaits me as I will attempt to embed musical treats from these Minstrels and others throughout the post. It looks simple, but it will be new to me. As a back-up plan, in a formal audience, I have asked the ‘Siren of Song’ for her ‘Blessings’ on my voyage.

As we parted after her two fantastic sets the previous time. She blest me with a ‘Smile’ and an embrace. She then placed another gift in my hand. It was a slightly filled  bottle of water she used.It now sits next a photo of Rudy. Mike Guido in red, arranged for Rudy to speak to our classes during our time at Las Vegas HS. We both shared his video of Inspiration and Dreams to our students. She told me that within the bottle was her air. Her air carried the musical notes of her soul. If obstacles appeared now or in the future on my journey, I was to open the cap and let the air mixed with her musical notes fill my room.

She told me for that moment, I could visit a favorite place in my mind and that might overcome my obstacle. Use as much as I needed or wanted, she said, for the bottle would automatically replenish itself for an unlimited supply.

The sound and video of  the ‘Musical Treats’ vary. You the reader can decide on its message. Most the videos will showcase the Minstrels as one very large Orchestra during their performance at the Cabaret Jazz, in the Smith’s Center in June of 2016, Other clips are from the last few months at The Lounge in the Palms Casino as David Perrico’s Pop String Orchestra.

THIS POST IS DEDICATED TO ALL WHO PLAYIN THEIR DREAMS. IT IS ALSO DEDICATED TO THOSE WHO SHARE AND PROMOTE THE DREAMS OF OTHERS. THIS STORY HAS BEEN WEAVED INTO PREVIOUS POSTS, BUT FORCES NOW DICTATE THAT IT BE COMBINED AND SHARED IN ONE POST.

EDITORS NOTE: CAUTION! WITH ALL THE MUSIC VIDEOS, THIS HAS TURNED INTO A STORY BOOK MUSICAL. YOU CAN CONTROL THE TIME IT TAKES YOU FROM NOW TO THE END. IT IS ESTIMATED THAT THE STORY BOOK MUSICAL IS ABOUT 90 MINUTES. TAKE SMALL BITES OR ENJOY THE ENTIRE BUFFET, THE CHOICE WILL BE YOURS.

This is a story of a boy who now as an adult has now just opened the door to the ‘Prime of His Life’. Only he will decide how long his prime is. His uncle shaped his journey to now from the age of nine. As a child and throughout his teenage years he was very active in a variety of activities including sports.

For his ninth birthday, his uncle gave him a gift that forever changed his life. It was the ‘Gift of Music’. As a youngster, this little boy dreamed of playing the drums. However, forces said the drums were not for him. Placed in his hand were a trumpet and an album by Chuck Mangione.

He proudly placed the trumpet in his hands, placed his lips on the mouthpiece, and blew his first sounds. Rumors have it, these sounds attracted whales of all ages to Youngstown, Ohio for his notes sounded as a newborn whale in distress. These whales throughout the country all converged to Youngstown to assist.

Assist they did. Upon entering high school, this horn player with countless hours of practicing with the other whales began a new phase of his dream. Music was now his dream. Wanting to remain true to it, other activities were placed to the side, including sports.

With more energy being channeled into his dreams, he was able to share his dreams with others. After high school, a short stay at Youngstown State University Music Department was next. The itch to take his horn on the road and on the seas to play with the whales interrupted his stay at YSU.

After squelching his itch, YSU called for him to return to earn his degree in Music. Now at a crossroad in his life, he mapped his ‘New Road Not Taken’ with his sights on New York City. Jazz was calling out to him. New York City had Jazz.

Strange and bizarre forces started to shape his life. Each time, plans for NYC seemed cemented; a jackhammer would appear and break them apart. Out west, his brother lived. His brother kept encouraging him to join him.

Many pluses were shared including that UNLV had a Master’s Degree Program in Music. While fighting the forces that prevented his NYC dreams, he decided to test the dreams that Las Vegas was offering. Las Vegas did not have the vastness of the music industry that NYC had to offer, but it did have Music and Jazz.

With his brother among others supporting and promoting his dreams, an application to UNLV was submitted with acceptance. After realizing, it is more harmonious to go with the flow, instead of fighting the flow, out west he moved. He has remained ever since making his imprint on the music scene, especially Jazz and Pop in Las Vegas. The title for the next part is called:

A LITTLE BOY AND JOE DIMAGGIO—MIDNIGHT MASS—IT’S A SMALL WORLD AFTER ALL—A LONG STORY

Joe DiMaggio can be defined as ‘Grace and Charm’ while wearing a New York Yankee Jersey. He displayed his talents at the plate, on the bases, defensively in the field, throughout the shrines of Major League Baseball Stadiums.

His persona was carried off the field, and showed when he married Marilyn Monroe who he later divorced. He is known as the ‘Yankee Clipper’ and is considered the greatest center fielder in New York Yankee History.

His bust is displayed in the MLB Hall of Fame. With many great achievements in the world of baseball, Joe DiMaggio holds one record that many historians claim to be among the greatest. He owns the MLB longest consecutive, single season, consecutive game hitting streak at 56 games. On with the story.

NEW INSPIRATION HAS BEEN DISCOVERED AND DESERVES TO BE SHARED.

 To my loyal readers, my writings always include stories of ‘Inspiration’. Many Observations and Analysis (O’s & A’s) will be used as I share my tale of newly discovered ‘Inspiration’ and ‘IT’.

My story actually began with my post/blog on the ‘T-Mobile Arena Grand Opening Event—A Pilgrimage’. In it, I describe briefly an encounter with a band (Orchestra) that performed on stage in The Park as part of the outside pre-concert activities.

Questions and more questions circled within my brain as I kept venturing back to the Pop Orchestra with a full string ensemble. Excerpts from that post include: After a short dream, the band playing on one of the two outside stages caught my attention.

I walked towards their stage and was very impressed with the musical sounds that were being created by this band. After a short close-up of this band, their musical notes and energy stirred my passion. Thoughts of a possible story entered my brain.

As I continued my tour of the Park, more pics were now part of my memories. The Pop Orchestra was finishing their set. I sought more info about them and visited with the sound technician near the band. I told him, that it was too bad, that the band could not hear how great they sounded. He thanked me.

A band that sounds great, with distinguishable lyrics is a tribute to not only the artists but also to the sound technicians. My journeys to other musical venues in town have proven this. The artists’ music sounds great, but because of the sound mix, it overshadows their lyrics. Unless one is familiar with the tune, garble is what is sung. I am not a fan a ‘garble’ even if it is on key.

The sound tech shared his info with me. The name of this band was ‘David Perrico Pop Strings Orchestra’. It was their arrangements and their interpretation of the songs that made their unique sound. Memories from my 2012 visit to the Village Vanguard Jazz Club in Manhattan started to resurface.

It was there I saw my childhood friend Ralph Lalama, blow his sax along with The Vanguard Village All-Star Band. For more of Ralph’s ‘Inspiration’ and others, I direct you to my post titled, “Inspiration-What is IT?-Part One”. It is archived in the ‘Inspiration Section’. Excerpts include:

Here is a picture of my childhood friend in a white shirt. His name is Ralph Lalama He too is from West Aliquippa, PA. Ralph has ‘IT’. Being from the same bloodlines as Henry Mancini and others, Ralph discovered during his youth that he had ‘IT’.

‘IT’ started with the clarinet but transgressed to the saxophone. Right after college was the last time that I heard him blow his horn. He caressed that sax and exchanged ‘inspiration’ with ‘IT’, which created sounds that raised my gooseflesh.

I was given his phone number by mutual friends from Aliquippa. They told me to contact Ralph upon my visit to NYC. Upon calling Ralph, he was pleasantly surprised. He invited the two Georges to his set at The Village Vanguard that Monday night.

Ralph’ Story (from his website)

“What they’re saying about ralph lalama

“Saxophonist Ralph Lalama and his quartet deliver the electricity that will turn you on and keep you charged up till the end.”-Edward Blanco, ejazznews

“Lalama is cut from a similar mold as [Sonny] Rollins: robust tone; strong beat; melodic inventiveness on jazz and popular standards; all suspended on a harmonic tightrope.”-Tom Reney, WFCR FM

“Lalama is a grand, modern-minded storyteller… a first-class jazz soloist.” -Zan Stewart, DownBeat

About Ralph Lalama

A solid fixture of the New York jazz scene and respected world-wide, Ralph Lalama embodies the best of the jazz sound ideal – great time, great swing, expressed through great melodic ideas.

Everything he says and plays comes out of his deep connection and appreciation for “the Beat.” Jazz critic Zan Stewart put it succinctly: “Lalama is a grand, modern-minded storyteller…a first-class jazz soloist.” He excels in a chord-less trio format with his amazing command of the harmonic progressions articulated through his horn.

But on top of being a great jazz soloist, Lalama is equally a solid veteran of jazz ensembles and orchestras. Over his impressive career starting with Woody Herman, Buddy Rich, and the Mel Lewis Orchestra – now the Vanguard Jazz Orchestra – he has honed the craft of sonic blending.

Lalama is a three-time Grammy winner through his work in the Joe Lovano Nonet and the Vanguard Jazz Orchestra.

He has nine CDs out as a leader and is on more than sixty recordings as a sideman. He has received praise from the likes of critics Gary Giddins, Stanley Crouch, Ben Ratliff, Ira Gitler and Stuart Troup, among others. His latest release as a leader is the 2012 “Bop Juice: Ralph Lalama Trio, Live at Smalls.”

Ralph Lalama’s playing reveals an enormous depth of musical heart and knowledge. With his muscular, free-wheeling sound and masterful ability to tell a story through his horn, one understands why he so thoroughly connects with musicians, students and listeners alike.

Equipment: Selmer Mark VI Tenor Saxophone; Buffet Crampon Clarinet; Altus Flute.

Education

Ralph Lalama – Educator

Adjunct Professor at New York University (info)
Adjunct Professor at SUNY Purchase (info)

A graduate of the Dana School of Music of Youngstown State University (OH), Ralph Lalama was discovered there during a visit by the legendary Thad Jones. The renowned trumpeter/composer/arranger encouraged him to come to New York and hired him for his first gigs there. Since that time, Lalama has reached a dignified status as a widely respected master of the tenor. (He has joined the ranks of those who played before him.)

 Teaching Philosophy:

My philosophy is to make the learning experience for my students a meaningful one, by providing a real-world environment for his or her personal, artistic and educational growth.

First, you must extrude from your individual talent everything you can — through constant practice and growing your listening skills — in order to propel yourself to the next level.

There is a considered demand for accountability in my teaching, be it private or ensemble, which not only will produce maturity in your playing but serves to raise your awareness and appreciation of what it means to be a contributor to the greater musical community.

This is absolutely necessary if anyone hopes to succeed as an artist and/or professional. I expect no less of myself than I do my students, and this includes continually setting goals for improvement and artistic growth. There are real tools for accomplishing these aims that I employ every day and have successfully shared with my students.

The positive results are tangible in the quantum leaps they make as individuals and as members of an ensemble. My passion and respect for this music is fueled in part by my enthusiasm and commitment to share it with students who are as serious about learning as I am.

Teaching Impact:

Lalama’s impact as a jazz educator is made evident by the evolution and success of his many students through his decades-long association with two prestigious jazz programs, at New York University for twenty-five years and at State University of New York (SUNY) Purchase for over a decade.

His private studies and his “High Standard” ensembles have nurtured and produced musicians who have gone on to become professional musicians and educators. He has been an effective teacher at the high school level, as well. One of his students received two consecutive National DownBeat Awards for Best High School Jazz Soloist. He received recognition from the fraternity of music education when he was featured in a cover article in the national publication, Saxophone Journal.”

Ralph blowing his horn from his website.

AS I LISTENED TO RALPH, BLOW HIS HORN, THAT NIGHT IN NYC, the ‘energy’ in the place rose. Not only were the patrons engrossed, but so too his band members, as in paying their respect.

Gooseflesh appeared on my skin as ‘IT’ did years ago. I never told Ralph about that story, but it needed to be shared. In between sets, I shared my story with Ralph. He humbly thanked me.

Here I am standing in front of ‘IT’. The little I knew about the arrangement of an orchestra informed me that Ralph was the #1 Jazz Saxophonist in NYC. As I soaked in what he had to offer, while others sang his praises and wanted photo ops, I finally got the chance to ask him.

“How do they know”? I asked. He replied, “They just know”. I responded with another question, “Is there a voting process”? As he put his arm around me, he leaned towards my ear and said’ “They just know”.

Ralph gave a ‘blessing’ to me. The dots started to connect. Buddha’s words of wisdom were revealed to me. Wayne W. Dyer writes the following on Buddha’s ‘Knowing’.

“He says when it agrees with reason-that is, when you know it to be true based on your own observation and experience-and it is beneficial to one and all, then and only then, live by it”.

Further, Dyer writes: He, (Buddha) does not speak of rejection, only being grown-up and mature enough to make up your own mind by your knowing, rather than through the experiences and testimony of others”. (NOW BACK TO PERRICO.)

Unknown to me at the time, David Perrico informed me that the band was local and has a standing engagement at the Palms Hotel and Casino on Saturday nights. I told David I would visit them when my review was complete. If any of you readers are Jazz fans with an aficionado towards a Jazz Orchestra, the ‘David Perrico Pop Strings Orchestra’ is a must see.

A quote from the davidperrico.com, “David Perrico – Pop Strings Orchestra is Las Vegas’ hottest new live music club hit. The 15-piece band performs the best of Bruno Mars, Justin Timberlake, Usher, Beyoncé, Rihanna & more! Appearing at the famous Palms Casino & Resort.

Recently, on Saturday June 4, 2016, I had the honor to witness this Orchestra for the fourth time. The first was outside. The last three times was at The Lounge in the Palms Casino. It was during my first exposure to their sound that insisted more information be found about them.

The Orchestra leader, kindly gave me his card after the outside show and informed me about their engagement at the Palms. When he said the Palms, another Dream of mine started to materialize. My previous writings in the past had indicated that I was on the search in Las Vegas for ‘Top Shelf Jazz Music’.

The Las Vegas music scene provides ‘Top Shelf Jazz Music’, mostly played by small combos, with or without lead singers. They are scattered throughout our valley, playing in Casinos and off-strip venues. There are only two, maybe three other cities in our country that can compete with the Musicians and Artists in Las Vegas.

Only a certain number of this talent makes it to the top of the music industry. The ‘Music Industry’ is similar to pro sports. Only a certain number are ‘blest’ to achieve top fame. As in any line of ‘Artists’ Work’, there is a long line of Artists plying their trade and PLAYIN THEIR DREAMS.

Some dream in the hopes of making a tsunami. Others dream of producing a gentle rain. Then on rare occasions, there are Artists, regardless of the crowd, glory, and payoff take the ultimate challenge and always performs at their very best. They follow the wisdom of Gandhi, “An audience of one is an audience of many”.

If you are not a fan of ‘GOOD MUSIC, please stop now. If you are a fan of ‘GOOD MUSIC, please continue.

What is ‘GOOD MUSIC’? Let us refer back to Plato. Plato says. “Beauty is the eyes of the beholder”. Using Plato as our guide, what I may consider to be ‘GOOD MUSIC’, one may disagree with me. Unless you put ‘GOOD MUSIC’ to the test, one will not be able to judge.

As I was observing and analyzing this Orchestra during this 90+ minute free concert, (yes, it is a free concert), many thoughts as usual exploded into my brain. Numerous past studies have identified music and the effects and relationships it plays with humans.

Music affects our emotions, creativity, can distract us while driving. Music can improve our motor and reasoning skills. Classical music can improve visual attention. Music can help us exercise, and help us relax. Music can also raise our ‘spirits’ and provide us ‘Inspiration’.

According to bufferapp.com, Belle Beth Cooper writes the following: “Our music choices can predict our personality.” She continues to write about a Genre and Personality study conducted at Heriot-Watt University.

 *   Blues fans have high self-esteem, are creative, outgoing, gentle and at ease

• Jazz fans have high self-esteem, are creative, outgoing and at ease

• Classical music fans have high self-esteem, are creative, introvert and at ease

• Rap fans have high self-esteem and are outgoing

• Opera fans have high self-esteem, are creative and gentle

• Country and western fans are hardworking and outgoing

• Reggae fans have high self-esteem, are creative, not hardworking, outgoing, gentle and at ease

• Dance fans are creative and outgoing but not gentle

• Indie fans have low self-esteem, are creative, not hard working, and not gentle

• Bollywood fans are creative and outgoing

• Rock/heavy metal fans have low self-esteem, are creative, not hard-working, not outgoing, gentle, and at ease

• Chart pop fans have high self-esteem, are hardworking, outgoing and gentle, but are not creative and not at ease

• Soul fans have high self-esteem, are creative, outgoing, gentle, and at ease

Of course, generalizing based on this study is very hard. However looking at the science of introverts and extroverts, there is some clear overlap.

TO PUT ALL OF THIS INTO SOME CONTEXT, THE SOUNDS OF THIS ORCHESTRA DURING THIS SESSION, TOOK ME BACK TO MY ELEMENTARY SCHOOL DAYS AT SAINT JOSEPH SCHOOL IN WEST ALIQUIPPA, PA.

I reflected on the policy of Catholicism, the preaching and the fear tactics of the nuns. During the school year, there was a voluntarily/mandatory practice of attending mass, prior to the start of each school day. The penalty for not attending mass was a ‘public tongue lashing’ in class by the Sister in charge.

The wisdom of the Catholic Church taught her followers that through mass services, the sacraments and other rites, one could prepare themselves for salvation. Being a young child, this word ‘salvation’ was undefinable to me. I wanted ‘Inspiration’.

Though my belief in God was instilled in me at the school, when adulthood came, my search took me into a new direction. God and ‘Inspiration’ can be found anywhere. Yes, others can find them in church. Nature provides the sanctuary that others seek.

God and ‘Inspiration’ can be found in other humans. The list can go on. As with the previous three shows at the Palms, the first 10-15 minutes are similar to the start of any professional game. Usually, the participants begin at a high level, but not their highest. As the Game continues, usually so does the level of performance.

While reviewing my thoughts on Sunday about the concert, my friend Greg unexpectedly calls me from his ‘dream beach home’. The day before I had told him, I was going to witness this Orchestra that night. If time permitted, I would share with him during our weekly phone call next week.

Greg said he couldn’t wait. Greg and I share many similarities and beliefs. He asked me what I thought. I skirted around the question as I described other happenings of the night. Finally, after patiently waiting, he asked me again, “What did you really think about them”?

The crux of my O & A goes like this: “It was early yet in the first quarter of this 90 minute contest. Like a soccer game, additional minutes may be added to the Game if warranted. It then hit me. A sort of ‘Revelation’ settled in. The Orchestra out of early game mode raised its bar.

The ‘Tenacious’ level of play took on a whole new meaning. It was as though, a switch was turned on to raise everyone’s level to do his or her very best, regardless of the audience and/or its size. For me in the ‘World of Art’, this is the highest level that an Artist could bestow on his or her audience.

The veraciousness of their play led me to believe that this would be the effort they would give, regardless of the crowd size. If they played in front of 20,000 fans or less, these Professional World Class Musicians/Artists would accept the Challenge. The Challenge to be the very best you can be, regardless of extenuating situations.

I was reminded of a Joe DiMaggio story.  Joe DiMaggio, who holds the MLB 56 consecutive game-hitting streak, which was set in 1941, was asked late in his career, why he hustled on a play that meant little in a game that had little bearing on the Yankee’s fate that year. DiMaggio responded: “Because there is always some kid who may be seeing me for the first time, I owe him my best”.

THE NAME OF MY NEW FOUND ‘INSPIRATION’ IS THE ‘DAVID PERRICO POP STRINGS ORCHESTRA’. THEY PLAY FOR YOU AS IF IT IS THE FIRST TIME AND OR THEIR LAST TIME.

IF YOU THINK THAT WAS CRAZY, WELCOME TO MY WORLD OF ‘INSANITY’ AND DREAMS.

David has permitted me to share my other thoughts about his Orchestra. The following is a recent email.

David,

It is more advantageous to write on Word. You were ‘right on’ when you declared to the audience, “You will not see this in New York City. You will not see this in Los Angeles. The only place you can see this is in Las Vegas”.

I cannot vouch for L.A., however for New York I can. Yes, my stop was only for a brief 2 sets in the Village Vanguard to witness Ralph Lalama and the Village Vanguard Jazz All-Star Band. (More info can be found on my website in a post “Inspiration—What is IT?” in the Inspiration Section.) According to the little I know, the members of this band is the “who’s who” of New York City.

Music has always had a special place in my life. While growing up in West Aliquippa, Pa., I followed the Reverbs led by Ralph and my other friends.

Before my New York City experience with Ralph, the last time I witnessed him blowing his horn was after we graduated college. It was in the Beaver Valley.

You brought back fantastic memories, bringing up Miles Davis. I mentioned this to you after the show, as you were coming down from your performance. Though you were coming down, the adrenaline rush was still in command and your energy was bursting forth. Thanks for the burst.

Back to Miles. He was the opening act for Herbie Hancock and The Headhunters. It was during the early 70’s. The place was the Syria Mosque Auditorium on Pitt’s campus. It was thee venue, prior to Heinz Hall.

With the price being right, I took advantage of witnessing some ‘Fantastic Musicians’ during my time at Pitt, including Miles and Herbie for $5. Musicians, Dancers, Singers and other Performers who use their bodies are similar in my opinion to Athletes. My vision groups all as ‘Artists’.

To reach the desired level that one seeks is usually related to the ‘Talent Level’ one has plus the amount of time one practices their craft. My time spent as an athlete playing football at Pitt, exposed me to other athletes of a higher caliber than myself.

The challenge was to compete against them on a Saturday afternoon as Modern Day Gladiators. My challenge or game ended in a result. Unlike the other Artists, unless judging takes place, the competition is against oneself. Personally, this is the highest form of competition.

My ‘radar’ permits me to rate the performances of others. I am not a Music critic, a Dance critic, etc., but as an Athlete, I can recognize other Athletes and Artists levels of performance.

There is a calling card that visits me when something extra or what I call ‘It’, shows up during a game, a show, a performance, whether live or on TV. This phenomenon goes by the name of ‘Goose Flesh’. For a moment in time, without warning, ‘Goose Flesh’ indicates that ‘It’ has made an appearance.

I have come to appreciate these ‘Goose Flesh’ moments as ‘Blessings, Gifts, and Inspiration’. Some of the moments are brief, others extend their stay. Without really understanding the Greatness of Miles Davis and Herbie Hancock at the time, Miles and Herbie produced ‘It’.

As I write, the memories of this ‘Goose Flesh’ has resurfaced. Mr. Davis and Herbie Hancock showered the audience with ‘It’. The very next day, to the record store I went to add Miles Davis and Herbie Hancock to my album collection. I then proceeded to play the ‘Shit’ out of them.

Many other artists over time have created ‘It’ moments for me. Ralph did it at times, including his gig after college. While witnessing the first set at the Village Vanguard, after all those years in between, Ralph still had ‘It’.

When Ralph and I spoke between sets pausing for the many fans that wanted his autograph and picture, I asked him, “How is this ranking of musicians done in New York City”? He smiled at me and said, “They just know”.

I further pressed on with another question, “Is there a voting process”?  Ralph pulled me in closer and whispered in my ear, “They just know”. An alarm sounded in my brain. Ralph and I, as time permitted, rekindled our long relationship.

When our time together finally ended, it was then I was able to replay in my brain the message that Ralph shared with me. I was able to combine his message with the message of Buddha, which reads:

KNOWING

Do not believe what you have heard.

Do not believe in tradition because it is handed down many generations.

Do not believe in anything that has been spoken of many times.

Do not believe because the written statements come from some old sage.

Do not believe in conjecture.

Do not believe in authority or teachers or elders.

But after careful observation and analysis, when it agrees with reason and it will benefit one and all, then accept it and live by it.

My current views of life are based on Knowings. This is what I Know. The Village Vanguard All-Star Band, besides Ralph created ‘It’ during their sets I witnessed. However, the band’s make-up is a 3 Horn Section of 4 Saxophones, 4 Trumpets, 4 Trombones, Stand-up Bass, Piano, and Drums.

When compared to your Orchestra, a different level of creation is achieved with your String Section plus your lead female and male singers. David Perrico and The Pop Strings Orchestra also creates ‘It’. Your creation is accomplished by the use of your personal ‘Imagination’ during the arrangement process and the performance of the Artists.

All I can say David, is that there must be some serious ‘shit’ going on inside your brain. Though, I did not own any Tower of Power albums, I am familiar with them. Your re-creation of their tune elevated ‘It’ to a different level. ‘It’ raised the ‘Goose Flesh’.

The most fascinating aspect of witnessing your Orchestra, as I told your lead male singer, (Eric) is like watching Stanley Cup Hockey. These Hockey players perform with a heightened sense of energy, urgency, and passion. The occurrence of a goal being scored is similar to the ‘Goose Flesh’ produced by ‘It’ as your Orchestra plays.

As one witnesses the Stanley Cup Hockey, a goal is usually scored as in ‘No rhyme or reason’. This compares to your Orchestra when ‘It’ shows up. Again, ‘No rhyme or reason’.

I normally tell others at the beginning when I first meet them that, “I am Insane”.  My ‘Insanity’ follows the practice of Marcus Aurelius. Aurelius encourages us to view life as being, in the words of the poet Rumi, “rigged in [our] favor.” It’s a powerful way of reframing any obstacle we encounter. Aurelius writes:

“True understanding is to see the events of life in this way: ‘You are here for my benefit, though rumor paints you otherwise.’ And everything is turned to one’s advantage when he greets a situation like this: You are the very thing I was looking for. Truly whatever arises in life is the right material to bring about your growth and the growth of those around you. This, in a word, is art—and this art called ‘life’ is a practice suitable to both men and gods. Everything contains some special purpose and a hidden blessing; what then could be strange or arduous when all life is here to greet you like an old and faithful friend?”

Let me share with you a brief example. Last Saturday, as I was exiting the men’s room at the Palms prior to your show, life had me cross paths with 3 members of your String Section, led by ‘Rock Star #1’. I witnessed the solo of ‘Rock Star #1’ at the T-Mobile Arena Grand Opening and my first show at the Palms.

As our paths crossed, immediately I said, “You 3 are in the String Section of The David Perrico Orchestra”. Momentarily, they stopped, and my conversation continued. They were geared up in their ‘Game Attire’. Their pre-game pheromones, energy and beauty stunned me.

Being showered by their pre-game essence was a ‘gift and blessing’. I explained to them that I witnessed their performance at The T-Mobile Arena Grand Opening and the last show at the Palms. My honesty singing their praises startled them.

Their ‘Smiles’ grew as their eyes let me in as I explained my role to them. I told them that I had brought you some wristbands and my business cards to hand out to the band so they would have a ‘Token’ of your Orchestra’s Historic Event at the T- Mobile Grand Opening.

A look of puzzlement appeared on their faces as I told them I had a website. I informed them that I did a small review of the Orchestra during my post on the T-Mobile Arena Grand Opening. I thanked them for their time and for sharing. My story ended as I told them I was back for more.

All 3 shared more blessings and gifts with me with more ‘Smiles’ and thank-yous. We parted, and I waited out front near the bar for your show to begin. During my wait, the 3 showed up and sat at the bar in my direct sight line.

As I observed and analyzed, my ‘Knowings’ were confirmed. I approached the 3 and then engaged in small talk with ‘Rock Star #1’. I asked her if this was their pre-game ritual to get ready.  A yes and more ‘Smiles’, was the answer.

Not wanting to take up too much time of their pre-game ritual, I asked about their choice of pre-game drinks. ‘Rock Star #1’ explained them, but her ‘power’ caused me to lose my balance and affected my listening skills.

Before leaving, I reiterated that I was a writer and was going to observe and analyze their performance tonight. My conversation ended on the line, I was here to see and hear who was going to bring ‘It’ tonight. More ‘Smiles’ were given, as I departed.

Bring ‘It’, everyone did. You and your Orchestra brought ‘It’ all night long. Resembling a Stanley Cup Final Hockey Game, your Orchestra played with passion, energy, and sometimes with urgency.

Goals were scored on a regular basis with ‘no rhyme or reason’.  As members of your band brought ‘It’, creations of ‘Goose-Flesh’ appeared on my skin. ‘Inspiration’ filled the air with your sounds. Your audience was treated to something special.

I have come to discover that your Orchestra comes with interchangeable pieces. These ‘surprises’ disguised as Artists really adds to the mix. More Strings for your last show showed up, enhancing the Pop String Section.

In my ‘Imagination’ your female Pop String Section are ‘Goddesses’ disguised as String Players. The discipline, practice and passion to play one of earth’s oldest instrument, is a rarity. For them and for you to share what they create is worth the price of admission. More blessings, ‘It’ is free.

As suggested, I changed my seat for a better experience. Sitting in the middle provided a better view of the stage, and the sound was more even. My Message Therapist, who joined me, had only one non-positive remark.

When the Batgirl was finished with her first solo, he said it was an injustice to her performance, that her sound volume was not equal to the sound volume of the other soloists.

With the ‘Rock-Star #1 and the Batgirl leading the way, I told my other friend in Houston, Texas, as I watched them play their solos, my ‘Imagination’ took over with a question. I told my friend, I wonder if either of these two or both of them are as passionate when they play with their men as they do with their instruments.

You have ranked your Goddesses accordingly. Not only do you have a taste for ‘Great Music’ it extends to other arenas. A final story before ending.

As I waited for you to acknowledge your show, in my view appears ‘Rock Star #1’. Still in my Marcus Aurelius persona, the opportunity presented itself. I grabbed her arm slightly and asked if you were still in the back.

With ‘miniature universes’ disguised as eyes, she ‘Smiled’ and said yes. Her internal engine was vacillating at a high-octane rate, showering me. It was then; I told her that this was the third time that I had witnessed her solo. (EDITOR’S NOTE: The following is a solo of another Rock-star.)

I told her however, that she took ‘It’ to a higher level. She laughed and smiled and told me that she tries to bring something different each time. Your personal expression and the faces and your band agreed with her statement.

I wanted to tell her, however, I did not want to freak her out. While shaking her hand after our introductions, my inner Marcus Aurelius wanted to say, “If I did not know any better, I swear that your solo was done for me.”

My next Facebook and Website post is being formulated. They post simultaneously with different formats. There will be space for a review of your Orchestra at the Palms. For my website, I have a request.

During your show on Saturday, with your permission, I want to take pics for my website with my pocket size camera. Also, if you remember, after the show, pics with you, me, and your Goddess String Section would be appreciated either on or in front of the stage.

I will move towards the stage after the show. Perhaps these ‘after the show pics’ will display your heighten energy and the essence of your String Section.

One more thing. If you remember, please hand out my cards and bracelets. Give each Artist 2, one from each bag. They are different sizes.

George

IF I COULD SUMMARIZE THE STYLE OF THE DAVID PERRICO POP STRINGS ORCHESTRA, IT WOULD GO LIKE THIS;

David Perrico with his ‘Insanity’ is able to blend the use of ‘old world’ instruments with today’s instruments plus vocals. Though it is called ‘Pop’, it is more than ‘Pop’. This Orchestra takes you on an Odyssey of Blues, Jazz, Classical, Rap, C&W, Reggae(?), Dance, Rock, Chart pop, and Soul Music.

The Orchestra’s catalog is vast, including music of the 60’s-70’s-80’s-90’s-00’s, and today. This Orchestra has something for every fan of ‘Good Music’. Besides the ‘Goddess String Section’, made up of 4 Cellos, 2+ Violas, 3+ Violins, there is a top 10 drummer. My ‘Knowing’ tells me that the lead male, female singers, sax player, lead guitarist, bass player, piano man, and trumpet player are also in mine or others top 10.

Spread the news. If you or anyone you know that wants to take a ‘Challenge’, I have one for you. Some will moan, it’s too late or I am too old. I say bunk. A wise man wrote, “Old is 16 years from my current age. When I get there, it will be 16 years from that point”.

It is never too late to test yourself to see if you are alive, especially if you are a fan of ‘Good Music’. Here is the ‘Challenge’. Place on your calendar to witness for yourself at least one time the David Perrico Pop Strings Orchestra.

If they do not get your feet tappin, hands slappin, arms wavin, body rockin, shouts flowin, and ‘Goose Flesh’ risin, when they bring ‘It’, immediately have someone call 911 for you.

For the results of your Challenge indicates that dirt is being thrown on you.

Perrico’s Pop Strings play at the Palms, in The Lounge on a rotating basis. Check the Palms website. Show begins at 11pm. If you are unable to attend, you can find more information and scheduled future dates about this Fantastic Orchestra at davidperricomusic.com/pop-strings or on their Facebook page David Perrico Music-Pop Evolution.

If you do decide to take the ‘Challenge’, be on the lookout for me. My calling card is my black ‘Aliquippa Hat’. As an admitted ‘groupie’, unless I am out of town, or have an unexpected emergency, or dirt is being thrown on me, I will be there to take the ‘Challenge’ of the David Perrico Pop Strings Orchestra. Plus, I swear I hear among the applause, the approval of Beethoven and Mozart saluting the ‘Insanity’ of David Perrico and his World Class Musicians.

MIDNIGHT MASS—MORE WRITINGS TO DAVID PERRICO

For those of you who have not taken the FREE David Perrico Pop Strings Orchestra Challenge, more Challenge dates are scheduled at the Palms Casino in the Lounge at 11pm. Check the Palm’s website for future dates.

What is the Challenge? To test if you are alive, or if they should start throwing dirt on you. The most common excuse, others tell me, to not take the Challenge is, it is too late. Too late is not a reasonable excuse. After the last free concert, I confessed to David that his shows remind me of Midnight Mass when I was little kid.

You always heard as a little child how special Midnight Mass was. Plus, Santa Claus would visit while you would sleep and bring you gifts. For those of you reading this, I encourage you to step out of your comfort/dead zone and stimulate your senses in other arenas in your life. If it means a few times a month to alter your sleep, go for it. Enjoy life.

Perrico knows that I am ‘Insane’. He also knows that he himself is ‘Insane’. All one has to do to verify his ‘Insanity’ is to take the Challenge. If they do not get your feet tappin, hands slappin, arms wavin, body rockin, shouts flowin, and ‘Goose Flesh’ risin, when they bring ‘It’, immediately have someone call 911 for you. For the results of your Challenge indicates that dirt is being thrown on you.

As I O & A his shows, I always envision David as being a Head Coach and General Manager of his Orchestra/Team. According to his website he scouts and recruits world-class talent for his Orchestra. Various players show up, plus special guests appear.

Recently, I had written about the ‘Passion’ of two of his String Players, Bat Girl, the Cello Player and Rock Star, the Violin Player. These two had set the standards for ‘Passion’. Think in terms of Perrico having to manage a MLB All-Star Team, especially the pitchers.

The game of baseball is controlled by the play, rhythm, and the excellence of the pitcher. As an artist, the pitcher attempts to paint his canvas with each new batter. Sounds of the game are created with each pitch.

When an Artist of Perrico’s Team is called upon for a solo, that artist becomes an MLB All-Star Pitcher. He or she controls the play and rhythm of the song with their excellence.

Written on the Smith’s Center website is the following: “In a special performance, at the Smith’s Center on Friday July 8, @ 8pm, David Perrico, Composer, and Conductor brings his newest musical creation “David Perrico – Pop Strings Orchestra & Pop Evolution” to Cabaret Jazz.

A celebrated trumpeter, Perrico leads the 30 plus-piece ensemble of strings, horns and rhythm section, featuring Naomi Mauro and Eric Sean’s powerful vocals.

Comprised of musicians who perform with Rod Stewart, Celine Dion, and Donny & Marie, the band features the finest musicians in Las Vegas, and transforms popular songs from all genres to produce a one-of-a-kind sound experience.”

With a ticket in my hand, Midnight Mass will be earlier on Friday 7/8/16 with more gifts and surprises. See you there or at the Palms.

MY PILGRIMAGE TO THE CABARET JAZZ CLUB—FRIDAY 7/8/16

This was my first visit to the Smith’s Center/Cabaret Jazz Club. Helen, my camera did not travel with me for I was there to feast on what David Perrico was serving that night. With over a 30 piece ensemble, the dishes would be a variety and plentiful.

Unknown territories both excite and frighten me. As one steps into a new arena, it is the unknown that increases potential results. For tonight, I would let the forces guide me and enjoy the ride.

Because of a ticket snafu, I had to go to the ticket box office to have a new ticket printed. This little excursion led me to have an encounter with part of the Perrico family. I met David’s father, who was visiting from Youngstown, Ohio, his brother and sister who resided in Henderson, NV and his nephew.

Flashbacks occurred in my head, to when I met the nieces of Brandon Flowers of the Killers at the T-Mobile Grand Opening Event. The timing of both events equaled bizarre in my brain. With meeting the Perrico’s family, I took it to mean that something special was going to be created that night.

Ladies, gents, and children of all ages, if you are a fan of ‘Good Music’ something beyond special was created that night. Playing in front of a sold-out audience in the Cabaret Jazz, David’s Perrico combined Pop Strings and Pop Evolution Orchestras delivered standing ovations throughout the night.

The seats are four to a table spread throughout the floor. Servers took your order for drinks and small food entrees. The deco art and design was suitable for an ‘Olde Jazz Cabaret Room’. The sound system matched the quality of the room.

Words to describe what I witnessed would not do justice to what I heard, saw, and felt that night. ‘Gooseflesh’ appeared on my skin throughout the show. With over 30 pieces to choose from, plus the greatness of all the solo artists, ‘It’ was very overwhelming.

The strategic use of the ‘Olde World Instruments, plus the Brass and Horn Section, include the Bass and Lead Guitar, add the Percussion Section, with the passionate, powerful vocals of the ‘Siren of Song’, Naomi Mauro and Troubadour, Eric Sean, the results were a creation of a ‘Festival.

AS THE END DRAWS NEARER

 After the last ‘Festival’ at the Palms, I wrote the following to Perrico on 7/31/16:

At your last ‘Festival’, no longer a show or concert, in front of me sat this woman. From the start, this woman was deeply involved. She swayed, bounced, and applauded all the solo artists throughout the night. She was experiencing what I was experiencing a ‘Festival’.

Your first and second batters in your line-up that game really brought a different tempo than your other line-ups. It also introduced immediately a ‘third voice’, the harmonic vocal of Naomi and Eric. My one advantage over you, I get to hear and listen to what you bring. You only bring ‘It’. By introducing the ‘third voice’ early, your audience could now try to distinguish more of it throughout the show.

Your Orchestra reminds me of watching a Pirates’ game from PNC Park, live or on TV. The views according to others and myself are some of the most breath taking views on display from a baseball park.

The evening sun, mixed with clouds or no clouds, bounces off the city buildings across the river, reflecting off the mirror glass. As the sun sets, the light fades slowly and the city begins to light up in all its splendor right before your eyes. It resembles a Hollywood set.

With the bridges, rivers in view and the crafts on the water, the Pirate fans watch a baseball game that has now grown into a ‘Festival’. Not a home game ever goes by when an announcer witnessing the majestic scene says, “This never gets old, ‘It’ just keeps getting better.

This is the same experience I shared, as I watched you and your Minstrels perform. You take me to uncharted territories with your extremely unique sound of blending ‘olde world’ instruments with new world instruments, plus vocals. ‘A Little Party Never Killed No One’ was one of those territories.

Thank you for introducing me to your mother, for she was the same woman experiencing what I was experiencing. If I did not know any better, I would say that she was a baseball fan. Why? Because she agreed with my assessment of your lead-off and second batter that night. She knows the importance of setting the tempo early in the game. Once the home team sets the tempo, the crowd will feel it and reciprocate.

AS I CLOSE THIS POST THERE ARE OTHERS WHO NEED TO BE RECOGNIZED

Dgirl played a vital role in the ‘Blessings of David Perrico and his Minstrels’. (His use of those ‘Olde World Instruments’ hearkens me back to the Medieval Days.) When Dgirl did not retrieve her invitation from me during ‘My Promotion Night at Stoneys 3-31-16’ for her ticket for the T-Mobile Grand Opening Event, in addition, her power thwarted all other attempts to use the extra ticket, I was sent off on my own for a Pilgrimage.

Currently Dgirl is still residing in her favorite place in the world, Nashville, after moving there to discover herself after a ‘Bad Break-Up’. I keep encouraging her to send more ‘Blessings’ my way with her power, as ‘God is my Judge’. She has responded kindly. Her power continues to force me into uncharted territories.

Dgirl has played an extremely important role in my life. Our relationship is ‘Bizarre’. After meeting her at her work place in the Mandalay Bay Resort in November of 2013, our physical paths have since crossed but twice in Stoneys.

After making a life changing decision in the fall of 2012, Dgirl was the first of many Soul-Touching experiences that followed hers. All it took from her was a ‘Look’ and a simple ‘Handshake’ to touch my soul.

Forces at that moment have evolved our relationship into what it is today. As ‘God is my Judge’, she has read hundred of thousands of my words I wrote; only passing judgement a few times. Our story has the potential with her as an author to become a best seller.

In her recent Option, she has chosen has provided me the opportunity to disclose her identity with her ‘Blessings’. This will provide evidence that some dreams can turn into a reality for others.

A GIGANTIC SHOUT-OUT GOES TO MERRILEE GAINES. MOST OF THE VIDEO CLIPS CAME FROM HER COLLECTION ON YOU TUBE.

For those of you who appreciate the melodies, and songs of the ‘olde’ Female Jazz Singers, I invite you to spend an evening with two of the most celebrated ‘Female Jazz Singers’ in town. I confess, I have not witnessed every Female Jazz Singers in town. David Perrico introduced me to both of them.

Each of these women in her own style of interpretation of the song, creates an ethereal sound that embraces its listeners. It is their manipulation of their vocal cords through many years of hard work and singing, that permits them to stretch out the note, change octaves effortlessly, and caress each note while phrasing the lyrics that has been created in their souls.

I have told both women, that they each have the ‘power’ to touch my soul with their vocals. If any of you reading this want to have your soul touched, I encourage you to visit The Tuscany Hotel/Casino located on Flamingo Road near the strip to receive their ‘Blessings’.

On Monday nights with no cover, in the Piazza Lounge starting at 7:30 pm to 11:30 pm, you can have your soul touched by Laura Shaffer. She is a local woman and a graduate of Las Vegas HS of the downtown era. My nickname for her is the ‘Sultaness of Song’. She has permitted me to share from her website @ www.midnightrefrain.com the following:

Singer/recording artist Laura Shaffer was born and raised in the Entertainment Capital of The World, and started performing professionally when she was still a teenager. Honing her chops on the world famous Strip, she has appeared and continues to appear at all of its major hotels:  The Wynn, The Cosmopolitan, The Mandarin Oriental, Aria, Mandalay Bay, Paris, Palazzo, etc.; as well as it’s popular off-Strip megaresorts such as The Hard Rock Hotel and Red Rock Casino, plus performances to sold out audiences at Las Vegas’ spectacular world-class performing arts venue, The Smith Center.

Having garnered an international fan base with her glamorous vintage look and her sultry take on the great jazz, torch, and swing standards, she also performs limited engagements nationally and internationally, as well as for gala events, celebrity launches, and heads of state.  From showrooms to ballrooms to nightclubs, from small combo to production show, the “Noir Nightingale” enthralls with the glamour and allure of Golden Era Hollywood and the dazzle of Vintage Vegas, combined with a warm and engaging vocal style.

She is currently in production with a follow-up album to her CD “Julie London Songbook”, and has released a series of classic pin-up posters culminating is a 2015 calendar.  You can also find Laura at:
www.facebook.com/laurashaffernoirnightingale
ww.reverbnation.com/laurashaffer,
www.twitter.com/nightingaleLV

Laura’s musical ability comes by way of her father, pianist/arranger/composer Charlie Shaffer, who has written for the likes of Johnny Carson, Merv Griffin, and The Houston Symphony Pops Orchestra, as well working with such legends as Peggy Lee, Lola Folana, Joe Williams, Debbie Reynolds, and others. Her brother is also a musician, singer, and composer.

The Midnight Refrain is… the clink of glasses, the ribbon of cigarette smoke drifting through the spotlight, the yearning of a heart, the glint of a necklace – or a gun barrel, the kindling of an enchantment, the demise of a dream.  The melody that haunts you long after you’ve walked out onto the moonlit sidewalk. ©midnightrefrain

On Thursday in the same location, with no cover and at the same time, you can also have your soul touched by the ‘Siren of Song’, Naomi Mauro. The little I know about this ‘Siren’ is she is an Orange County, Ca ‘Gal’. Growing up near the beach, she was heavenly influenced by her father, a Jazz musician himself.

At the age of eight, she received her first Jazz album as a gift. At age 14, with very little competition in the genre of Jazz Female vocalists, the calling from her soul reached out to her. Though she is an acclaimed vocalist in the world of Pop, Rock and others, she has confessed to me that Jazz is her true calling.

She moved to Las Vegas after graduating high school and set up shop performing pop tunes with her boyfriend on the Las Vegas Strip. One gig led to another exposing her talents up and down the strip. With her boyfriend out of the picture, other men pursued her.

She was removed off the market by a local lad who himself is an artist. He is an Opera Singer. His parents own and run a local eatery off the Strip. While taking time off to create three off-springs, she utilized her time to earn a Music Degree from UNLV.

With the support of her husband and her children now ages 10-5, she has reentered the music scene with a renewed vengeance and passion, second to none. Folklore tells me she is an accomplished pianist and composer. A collaborative bond has formed between her and David Perrico.

The Tuscany is a ‘smoke free’ environment. The Piazza Lounge provides a great venue for your listening environment. It is enclosed on three sides and tucked near the hotel lobby. Outside noise is limited. Patrons who choose to converse during the show, adds to the ambiance of the room.

The staff is extremely friendly and the drinks are reasonably priced. You can order appetizers from the menu, and the restaurant next door will deliver to your table. With multiple TVs on the wall, the world of sports await your request as you can watch between or during the music sets.

If you choose Mondays, make sure you stop and say hello to Brooke the bartender. She will embrace you with her mid-western charm as she hails from Chicago. As you watch her mix her drinks, she uses her skills as a dance instructor.

The bottles, jigs, glasses, ice, drafts and sprays are her partners. Using her elegance, rhythm, and grace, she creates for her patrons an experience that results in a drink that has to pass her taste test. If not, her dance starts from the beginning.

You may ask, how do I know? I know through Observations and Analysis. My first experience in front of her caused a drink to be tossed. If she finds you deserving, she may sprinkle you with her ‘Tranquility’ as she is the Queen of the Enchanted Forest.

Recently, she had an anniversary. It was two years ago that she moved to the Las Vegas Valley. She decided that she was a pioneer looking for a new adventure and a fresh start. With her marketing degree in her hand, plus her bar tendering skills, with dance to fall back on, she journeyed out West.

She permitted me to toast a shot, celebrating her anniversary, and for her future dreams. Her shot awaited her for after work. In my two meetings with Brooke, she has opened up her Enchanted Forest for me and has made me feel like I am at home.

That is what I told both Laura and Naomi. With the best seat on the floor and ten yards, (a first down) away from the stage, in my brain, I am sitting in my living room, where two of most celebrated Female Jazz Singers in town entertain me and ‘Transcend the Moment’.

I confessed to Naomi, that for the last two years, I had been a regular at Stoney’s on a Thursday night. It was a place, which I used to stimulate my senses and to cleanse my brain of the ‘Insanity’ of the week, and to create the space for the new ‘Insanity’ that would soon arrive.

My confession went something like this. “You people do something for me that Stoney’s could not do. Stoney’s and its show could only stimulate my senses. You and the others touch my soul”.

Touching one’s soul is the greatest gift that one can give to another. With that touch, comes the energy to ‘Inspire and Heal’. If and/or when that moment happens to you, remember to pause and give thanks. Then when your moment comes, you do the same for someone else.

IT’S A SMALL WORLD AFTER ALL

My O’s and A’s are based on the following. David Perrico is from Youngstown, Ohio. Myself, I am from Aliquippa, Pa. Bruce Springsteen describes both towns in his song titled “Youngstown” Live from Youngstown.

Nestled in the valleys, the towns are about 25 miles apart. The steel mills and the people who forged the steel shaped each town. Hard work was the standard, accented by the strong values of the communities.

Laura Shaffer defines the area as a cult. She said that everyone she meets from there embraces you and treats you like an ‘olde faithful friend’. Laura and I discussed Madonna. Madonna’s mother is from West Aliquippa. With many cousins living in West Aliquippa, Madonna would be a steady visitor in her youth.

Her cousin, Patty Cerrcone, was a childhood friend and classmate of mine. Do I remember meeting Madonna, not really. However, I can assume that our paths crossed when she was in town. I also have written proof that Madonna had a teen-age crush on my high school friend and current friend Floyd (The Fly) Panella. When he showed me her personal letters she wrote to him, claiming her desires for him, I had him make me copies, which I have today.

My childhood friend Ralph Lalama graduated from YSU, as did Perrico. One of Perrico’s Minstrels, Jim Buck, lead guitar player for the Terry Fator Show, was a student of Ralph Lalama while attending college.

Jim Buck confessed to me that Ralph Lalama was one of the ‘Greatest Influence’ on his musical career. When the time came, Jim invited Ralph to play in his ensemble, for his Graduation Test. Jim tested on the drums, but forces now have him excelling on the guitar. When I contacted Ralph to share his wisdom with Jim Buck, Ralph replied, “Tell Jim to keep on pluckin”.

During Perrico’s last show at the Palms, sitting in the audience while vacationing with his beautiful wife, was Darryl Pellegrini. Darryl is from Youngstown and he is also a graduate of YSU. Darryl played drums at the Vanguard with Ralph and knew him quite well.

He was shocked to meet a childhood friend of Ralph’s in Las Vegas let alone at a David Perrico’s ‘Festival’. Darryl’s father, Esotto Pellegrini was one of the adult whales that taught young Perrico to play his horn. Darryl said that he was looking forward to contacting Ralph and to tell him about the bizarre happenings in Las Vegas.

As I waited after the last Festival at the Palms on 8/6/16, my thoughts drifted back to my days of playing college football at Pitt. Win or lose family members, friends, fans and others would hang around to greet and support the players and the coaches after the game.

I was no longer a player, for now I was a fan. While waiting, many thoughts flowed freely in my brain. David Perrico was the Head Football Coach/General Manager of his organization. For his ‘Star QB’ he selected Naomi Mauro. Eric Sean was the ‘Star of his Defense’.

With Fury the Sax player, Mike the Drummer, Otto, who recently graduated High School on the keyboard, and his Pop Strings Section as regular starters, plus his addition of Stars from other teams not playing that day, this team has the potential to explore unknown territories as they mature and progress. Only they control the destiny of their dreams.

During my wait, Oak, the Head Security Guard at The Lounge and I exchanged a handshake and a greeting. We were no longer familiar strangers. He commented on my religious following of the Festival, for he has seen me at every show since my ‘Baptism’ at The Grand Opening of the T-Mobile Arena.

As we discussed the night, and Festival, my persona switch to a Pirate announcer as I said to Oak, “This Festival never gets old”. As on cue as my sidekick announcer, before I could finish my sentence, Oak says, “It just keeps on getting better.”

After the show, I text Perrico at 2:25 am the following: “Bang Bang was a once in the lifetime experience. Please tell Naomi and Noybel Gorgoy. It was priceless”. On Sunday 8/7/16 it was posted on You Tube for all to share. Here you have it.

If you have enjoyed the story of ‘A LITTLE BOY AND JOE DIMAGGIO—MIDNIGHT MASS—IT’S A SMALL WORLD AFTER ALL—A LONG STORY’, please pass it on to others.

FOR A FUTURE DREAM, I AM GOING TO DREAM ABOUT RALPH LALAMA ONE-DAY VISITING LAS VEGAS SO HE CAN JOIN PERRICO AND HIS MINSTRELS IN A SET OR TWO.

THE SMITH’S CENTER HAS JUST ANNOUNCED ON THEIR WEBSITE THE FOLLOWING: ‘DAVID PERRICO-POP STRINGS ORCHESTRA FEATURING THE MUSIC OF STING’ FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 16, 2016, 8:00PM—VENUE CABARET JAZZ.

PERFECT! PERHAPS FORCES CAN COORDINATE FOR MY CHILDHOOD FRIEND RALPH LALAMA TO SIT IN ON A SONG OR TWO WITH PERRICO. ANOTHER DREAM PERHAPS?

 UNTIL OUR PATHS CROSS AGAIN, REMEMBER TO ‘TAKE 5’ AND PROTECT YOUR DREAMS. SO WHEN YOUR TIME COMES, YOU TOO CAN PLAYIN YOUR DREAMS.

FOR OTHER STORIES OF HUMAN INTEREST OR HOW TO PLAYIN YOUR DREAMS, PLEASE VISIT OUR ARCHIVES. IF IT TOUCHES YOUR SOUL, THEN PASS IT ON TO OTHERS SO THEY TOO CAN SHARE IN MY INSANITY.

FOX-FEATHER@playinyourdreams.com