Over the past week I was approached by a parish friend, who likes music as much as I do... and we've gotten to jamming together, which is awesome. I went to his band's radio show at Radio Verulam (it's a community radio station based in St Albans, Hertfordshire) and although I didn't contribute to it -- I watched from the sidelines -- I enjoyed it very much. Later that week, on Friday, I was taken to one of their studio rehearsals.
I was initially sought after as a vocalist, but I could not look up the songs I was to sing over the last week. It was oven-hot in my room, and my PC would shut off if I didn't fan it with both hands! So I came, eager to listen, and perhaps contribute. I came as the drummer... and this was my first time ever giving proper accompaniment to any song.
Mind, I had not had any proper practice for two years (no access to drums), and I'm self-taught, and it took me a good fifteen minutes and three whole pieces before I could finally play anything. Still today I have managed to surprise not only my friends, but myself. I uttered a string of thank-yous to the Man Up There. Still today I hear a pounding deep inside my heart. I really do mean it when I say the drum is my favourite instrument, even though I'm not the best at it. I did my best; judge for yourselves.
* * * * * * * * * *
In other news, I've heard that the NGADM audition results are going to be out on Wednesday 1 August, barring any delays. There is a fair chance that I won't be able to look up the results until Friday 3 August. Starting tomorrow I'll be away on a five-day retreat, the Faith Summer Conference at Woldingham School, Surrey. Although there is wireless internet in Woldingham, I am voluntarily staying away from the Net for five days. It'll be a good time for me to get rid of some ballast.
I trust everyone has done his best for the NGADM. Everyone has submitted his best piece to the audition. I wish the lot of you all the best, and I do certainly look forward to reading the results!
With regards to how far I'd fare, I can't say I know. Given the amount of submissions, it'll be difficult for the judges to pick the best 32. And again, some of you may know this -- this is my first NGADM. I will not expect anything, but like many, hope for the best. : )
With that... I guess I'll see you when I return to Hatfield on Friday!