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Here are a few of the musical instruments that I play.

The Piano

I just started taking piano lessons in September 2003. I bought a piano several years ago so that my children could take lessons, now that they have left home it's my turn to learn. Right now it's my favorite instrument and I try to practice about ten hours a week. The picture was taken at my first piano recital where I played the Theme from Beethoven's "Ninth Symphony" and "What a Difference a Day Makes."

The Trumpet

I started playing the Trumpet in Grade School. I gave it up until 1994 when I started playing in my son's school band. After playing the Trumpet in that band for a year I was asked to play the "French" Horn. Now I only play the Trumpet for Jazz pieces that we play in band, The Saipan Pacific Winds Concert Band .

The Horn

It is said that there are three types of people in this world. Those who call this instrument "The French Horn." Those who call this instrument "The Horn", and those who could care less. If you call this instrument "The Horn," then you are correct. However, if you call it "The French Horn," then you are kind of mistaken. The French had nothing to do with designing this instrument.

The Horn came from a long tradition of instruments that date back to ancient China ( 2003 B.C. ). In the 1600's the horn was used in the royal mounted hunt and in the 1700's it became a regular part of the orchestra. In 1815, valves were invented for the horn which made it much easier to play. It is actually the German version of the horn that is known as the French Horn in America.

Now many of you may not know this, but the Horn is a Divine Instrument. Man blows into one end and only God knows what will come out the other.

"God made some people Horn players; others are not so fortunate!"
Anton Horner

The Guitar

I started playing the Guitar so long ago I don't even remember when it was. Like most avid guitar players I have a collection of guitars. I try to stay out of music stores because I'm afraid I will find another guitar to add to my collection. I had my guitars stolen a couple of years ago and am now in the process of rebuilding my collection. At the present time I own a Martin D28, and a Takamine 12-sting.

The Banjo

In 1975 I started playing the banjo. I love Bluegrass Music so it was only fitting that I take up the banjo. Unfortunately, my banjo was stolen and I haven't had a chance to replace it yet. Of course I can't play all these instruments at once, so I'm in no hurry to replace it.

The AutoHarp

I received my AutoHarp as a Christmas gift so I had to learn how to play it so that the person who gave it to me would feel good. I generally only bring it out at Christmas time and play a few Christmas carols. I lost this instrument when we had to leave Rwanda.

The Dulcimer

The Dulcimer is a new instrument for me. I have a friend who built one and I decided that it might be interesting to build one also. I haven't taken a picture of my dulcimer yet, so you will just have to look at this graphic for now.

The Kazoo

And last but not least is the finest instrument of all, THE KAZOO. What can I say about this wonderful instrument. It's an instrument you can take with you anywhere you go.

Singing

Yes, I also sing. I've been singing in public since I was old enough to walk. I have sung in several choirs and groups, and in 1987 I started a Gospel Duet with a friend of mine called "Homeward Bound". We were together for three years and traveled all over the Midwest giving concerts. During that time we also recorded three albums.