Concerts....and more concerts

The past couple of months, we have attended several of our kids' concerts.  Dallin is learning to play the clarinet this year.  So of course his school band had a concert.  I'm telling you, I LOVE the elementary school band conerts.  You can hardly tell what they're really playing.  I don't mean that in a rude way, but really, it's true!  I get such a smile on my face when I hear "hot cross buns," and various other familiar tunes.  You hear squeaks of all kinds from several different instruments.  I know, I know.....they're just learning to play, but they are so intent and focused and determined.  It just really makes me smile. 

Dallin did a super job and he told me that he didn't squeak once.  :)  Way to go, Dallin! (I don't know why I only got one picture of him.....)  And don't worry, I shed a few tears too.  It just wouldn't be complete with that! 

Brandon had a concert in November.  He's been playing the flute for a few years now and has continued to enjoy it.  He plays in the concert band for that instrument.  Last summer, he got an alto saxophone, so he's also in the jazz band after school.  The November concert featured both bands. 

Brandon wanted to do a solo with his saxophone in several of the musical numbers and so he planned on 3 solos.  I was a nervous wreck, of course, and could hardly stand to wait on the day of the concert.  I had heard him practice, yes, but I didn't quite know how he would actually do in the songs.  When the concert began that evening, I could hardly sit there.  It was just like when Eric sang a solo in 9th grade with a band of friends for the talent show assembly.  I swear I was about to throw up in the aisle.  I tried to hide my nerves from Brandon that day, but I'm pretty sure he knew I was a basket-case.  When he (finally) started to play his solo, and I heard him belt out his saxophone in smooth, clear tones, I immediately relaxed.  I also started a river of tears, but that's nothing unusual.

 I don't know what the heck I was worried about.

Brandon rocked! 

 He played the saxophone like a real-live jazz musician.  And as I sat there, sitting in a pool of wet tears, listening to him play his little heart out, I was so proud of him.  It was so fun to watch him rock out to the music.  He's seriously got the "toe-tapping" style when he plays his instruments.  Way to go Brandon!

These pictures were taken after the concert, when I could actually smile more naturally......Whew!

These next couple of pictures were taken at a more recent concert from last week.  He did awesome once again and I'm happy to report that I was a little bit more relaxed.....not A LOT, mind you, but some!  And trust me, I'll take whatever I can get, when it comes to having less nervous breakdowns!

This is Brandon and his good friend, Cy.  They are both totally awesome!

And this is Brandon and his cousin, Matthew.  He plays the Tenor Sax and he rocks as well!  Way to go, Matthew!  You're super-duper!

Eric had a concert on Monday night.  He sings in the concert choir.  Monday night's concert was a fun, layed-back event.  It was called the "Glee" concert.  There were many different numbers from the choirs, but also some solos, duets, and trios.  Eric and a friend sang a duet together, while his friend (Tim) also played the ukelele.  I just don't understand my children actually wanting to perform in front of large crowds of people.  I have never felt comfortable doing so and it blows my mind that my kids SIGN UP to do this kind of stuff.  Crazy children!

I, of course, didn't know what to expect from the musical number, but I've got to say.....I wasn't AS freaked out as the last time he sang a solo.  So really, I MIGHT be getting a little better. 

Anyway, Eric and Tim were GREAT!  They sang "I'm Yours."   When Tim started to play the ukelele, and Eric was just standing there for the intro, he decided to "dance a little jig" to pass the time.  It was really cute.  He's quite the ham.....I wonder where he got that from?  :)  The music wasn't extremely loud, but they were wonderful!  Good job, you guys!

 

This last picture was actually taken at Eric's Christmas concert, all dressed up in his suit.  What a good-lookin' kid, if I do say so myself!  :)

Next year, Eric wants to take drama, concert choir, maybe mads too.  And if he's in the musical at school too, how will I survive?  And Brandon wants to continue is his instrument-playing debuts and really wants to play his flute in sacrament meeting.  WHAT?   I know.....it's not all about me.  I get it!  My mom says just to let them perform.  It's good for them.  She also takes the credit for them wanting to do so.  That's okay with me.  I'm pretty sure they didn't get their braveness from me!

Great job kids!  I can't wait to see what else you pursue in your life.  Just don't make me get up there!  :)