Of Richard, Bags and Teamwork

Last night I was tying on a new sheepskin bag, and I got to thinking about Richard Parkes and the situation that he faced at the British Championships recently. Usually, we rely on Richard to teach us what great pipe sound is, how how to be gracious in victory, or a million other things about performance and preparation. This time, he teaches us that you're never too good to double-check your stocks and reeds. No matter how many Worlds and other majors you win, you still have to do the same stuff as the rest of us [only better] and of course, if you don't...

I was tying in the stocks when I thought of that, and it reminded me of SFU days when we would be hounded to check that stuff the night before, and when all players spent time agonizing over the details of the instrument. It all counts: what kind of hemp do you use on reeds? In which stock do you put the seasoning? How much?

So, make sure! Check your stocks, ensure your reeds are seated tightly, refine the joints on your drones, and [insert appropriate drum stuff here]. : )

While I was tying in the bag [which is BRILLIANT, btw], I was watching the Saskatchewan football game on TSN. The Riders' 1st and 2nd QB were both out of the game, and they brought in the 3rd string guy, who executed the game plan, and brought home the win. Teamwork is about doing YOUR job well. The biggest aspect of being on a team is knowing your role, and fulfilling it to the best of your ability.

As we haul down the last few weeks to Maxville weekend, and get prepared to compete there again, it's important for everyone to understand that the key to band success is YOU doing your part. And if the season so far is any measure—I'm sure you will.