The here and now... and what and why

Complacency is a trap. At least that’s what I was thinking when I up and left the comfort of a Yankee prep school gig, where I taught music, amongst other things, for 28 years. There was also that life long career as a composer, musician and artist.

First, it was a year in St. Thomas, USVI, working as a reporter and shooting photography and then, a year in San Agustin Etla, Oaxaca, Mexico.
Time passed.
More time passed and a year back in the Athens of America followed by a hasty return to Oaxaca where it is all happening.
A couple of years in San Sebastian Etla and now, just down the road in San Pablo Etla. Life is good.

Click on an image to see it larger.
For additional photography please visit my flickr page.
You can find my music on Jango (World & latin - Worldbeat) and at iTunes and most online stores.
¡Soy consciente de todas las tradiciones del Internet!
If you are coming to Oaxaca, please contact me for tours or advice.

Santo Domingo

Santo Domingo
The view from Corazon del Pueblo

The hereafter re me

My photo
Oaxaca, Oaxaca, Mexico
Musician, photographer, videographer, reporter, ex-officio teacher, now attempting to be a world traveler

Tuesday, June 23, 2015

The Tejas Banda - Santa Maria Tlahuitoltepec

Almost everyone in Santa Maria Tlahuitoltepec plays a musical instrument.  I have heard that over ninety percent of the people play and the quality of the musicianship is absolutely exceptional.  As one who conducted many bands and orchestras over the years, I was completely blown away by how good these kids are. 

Musical groups are reflections of their leaders and this group was a perfect example.  Here is Antonio Tejas and it is his band.
It was pretty obvious, the kids love him, and having a young, handsome and hip director.
Looking fine and playing even better.
They sounded every bit as good as many professional bands.
And they were so young, absolutely solid as musicians.
I love how this little guy has to stand on a block to reach the right height to play.
I did shoot some video, but used a new camera and somehow I managed to delete it before it transferred.  A good reason to go back, which I am sure I will.

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