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It didn’t occur to me until I glanced down at my Calender that today is Valentine’s Day! Technically, it was yesterday - but nonetheless. In case you’re wondering (I know I was) V-day IS celebrated here in Japan as well. Of course, it’s not without its own little twist. In Japan, on Valentine’s Day, girls give guys gifts. They usually consist of sweets/chocolate/other special foods. For instance, I received cookies, many different kinds of chocolates, and….KFC. Nothing shows affection like deep fried fowl! Now before you start getting all, “OoOooO, it sounds like many girls have a little crush on Chris,” know that these gifts were handed out to several people at the same time, i.e. there was no singling out. It’s ok, though. I wasn’t expecting too much. Also, March 14th is “White Day” when the guys return the favor to the girls, so no one gets left out.
Today three designers came in from the U.S. to help put together more of the show. We got right to work tonight finishing some more drill. It’s very cool stuff as was to be expected. Bret Kuhn, the main drum guy comes in tomorrow. This weekend will be busy but VERY productive.
When we weren’t at the airport today picking up the guys (and getting Starbucks and another one of those bagels), I was busy putting together the Aimachi Bass Drum Exercise Packet. This is something I set out to do when I arrived and after several months of trial, error, more error, and successes, I had a good idea of what I wanted to include. Just to be clear, this is about 6 pages of very short exercises that will help the bass line maintain good fundamental technique and timing. Every good percussion program has an exercise book, but when I came here, I saw lack of a good one. If there’s something I love doing, it’s looking at something and thinking about how it can be improved. That’s why I took on this project so enthusiastically. I wanted to improve the process and the system. Sometimes I think other people view this approach as “sticking my nose in other people’s business,” “over stepping my bounds,” or something to that effect. Honestly, I can’t see such complacency getting anyone very far - or least not as far as I hope to achieve. If, for instance, my position here was defined as being low on the totem pole, I would keep my mouth shut - like I did at the Cavaliers. In 2006, I was new to this scene. I was there to play my bass 1 notes and march bass 1 dots. But here, I bring experience and ideas that I know will further this program. I can’t comfortably lay low when I know I have so much to offer.
It makes me happy knowing I’m doing things that have both helped our designers thousands miles away and also take a section to a level higher than it ever has been. I’m not trying to brag by any means. I just love knowing I’m helping people and am having very positive impact on this special program that is the Aimachi.
C
