tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-317724362012-02-01T12:44:56.989-05:00<p align="center">The unofficial source of poop, skinny and bitching for present and former U.S. Navy Musicians.</p>Frank Mullen IIIhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08425145870883194880noreply@blogger.comBlogger4611100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31772436.post-50341656221992790202012-01-28T18:18:00.002-05:002012-01-30T10:33:33.478-05:00

If you ever served with an MU who had been stationed with the Steel Band, you heard a lot of stories about "pans"; how you learn them, play them, tune them. It was all in some other language. Here's the U.S. Navy Steel Band performing at a Navy Birthday concert at Independence Hall, Washington, in 1989. My Navy Band Newport shipmate, Dennis Jansson is in the front row, second from the viewer's

Frank Mullen IIIhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08425145870883194880noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31772436.post-65184055141296235162012-01-22T17:43:00.004-05:002012-01-22T17:48:25.152-05:00

She's a Grammy-winning, world-traveling, song-writing blues singer. Ruthie Foster is also a former MU, grateful for her experience as a member of Navy Band Charleston. Her honesty shines through in this interview with CultureMob, in which she discusses the valuable things Navy music taught her: leadership, professionalism and, most important, how to back up an 18-passenger van.

Frank Mullen IIIhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08425145870883194880noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31772436.post-79033288957443617162011-12-29T14:39:00.001-05:002011-12-29T14:39:26.667-05:00

Frank Mullen IIIhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08425145870883194880noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31772436.post-65777072316828947882011-12-22T12:24:00.000-05:002011-12-22T12:25:41.544-05:00

Orignially published in Rock Island Argus/  Moline Dispatch Dec. 22, 2011 We often think of our armed forces as a large family of brothers and sisters united in camaraderie and purpose. The fact is, harmony does not always prevail in families -- the Simpsons and La Cosa Nostra come to mind. Certainly, the bonds of fellowship were strained during the Great Lakes Recruit Training Center

Frank Mullen IIIhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08425145870883194880noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31772436.post-75550343580158839752011-12-21T13:30:00.001-05:002011-12-21T13:30:41.984-05:00

...is that there's always someone hanging over your shoulder.

Frank Mullen IIIhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08425145870883194880noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31772436.post-6044536335649293462011-12-04T15:36:00.001-05:002011-12-04T16:07:14.918-05:00

Those of us who have played for the annual commemoration ceremony of the Pearl Harbor Survivors Association know the humbling feeling of watching those representatives of a brave and resilient generation cast a memorial wreath upon the waters. Hold tight to that memory. On December 31 of this year, the Association will resign its charter and dissolve. As CNN points, out, age, ill health, and

Frank Mullen IIIhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08425145870883194880noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31772436.post-61671738412360022832011-11-30T01:11:00.000-05:002011-11-30T01:17:43.656-05:00

I enjoy posting videos of recent Navy band performances, but also get a kick out of the not-so-recent category. Here, from 1995, is the final performance of Navy Showband West. The sound may play only through one channel, but the band, nevertheless, kicks, swings and screams. Enjoy.

Frank Mullen IIIhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08425145870883194880noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31772436.post-5808236471272523152011-11-20T13:41:00.001-05:002011-11-20T15:29:01.434-05:00

In the early '80s, I was new to the staff at the School of Music, but not new to moonlighting. One night, I was setting up before a gig on a cruise ship when the executive officer of the school walked up to the bandstand. I was bummed out at the thought of having the XO listen to me play all night. But that's not what I told him. "Good evening, sir," I said. "I hope you enjoy the music tonight."

Frank Mullen IIIhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08425145870883194880noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31772436.post-48190264455182305992011-11-11T10:27:00.001-05:002011-11-11T10:29:31.460-05:00

Originally published in Rock Island Argus & Moline Dispatch Nov.10, 2011 In my rural Illinois town, Veterans Day is a big deal. Here, after all, a veteran isn't a concept or an ideal. A vet is the old man next door who hoists a U.S. Army flag every morning, the kid who led the football team in touchdowns last year, the woman who stamps the date on your books at the library. She's your

Frank Mullen IIIhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08425145870883194880noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31772436.post-62412509453898053362011-10-30T21:14:00.003-04:002011-10-30T21:16:06.429-04:00

The audio on this clip of the 1986 School of Music Faculty Lab Band has been enhanced since I first posted it. In other words, it's audible.

Frank Mullen IIIhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08425145870883194880noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31772436.post-35348850019786721082011-10-14T21:58:00.000-04:002011-10-14T21:59:01.132-04:00

Some readers ask: “Why didn’t you post my comment? I thought this was a place for bitching.”It is. But there's bitching, and then there's bitching.And it's good to review this once in a while. We have limits around here; they're minimal, but they do exist: -- This is a very public place. It’s not the Shipwreck Lounge, so keep it reasonably clean. The definition of “unacceptable language” is

Frank Mullen IIIhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08425145870883194880noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31772436.post-78393910223257491622011-10-12T21:38:00.000-04:002011-10-12T21:38:35.556-04:00

Warning: This 60-second clip has been known to awaken dormant feelings of pride in viewers who have served in the United States Navy. Side effects may include leaping to one's feet, snapping to attention and shouting "Oo-rah!"

Frank Mullen IIIhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08425145870883194880noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31772436.post-60307816773771837582011-10-12T14:53:00.000-04:002011-10-15T15:39:32.915-04:00

MUCM Ken Davenport had called the Navy Band Newport staff together and announce a few changes in responsibilities. "And Frank," he concluded, "as administrative petty officer, you'll come in at 0730 every day to get the coffee ready." Coffee? 0730? Neither concept was enticing. "Wait a minute," I said. "I don't drink coffee." "So?" said the master chief. "So, why should I make coffee if I

Frank Mullen IIIhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08425145870883194880noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31772436.post-40852554958032516892011-09-22T11:18:00.000-04:002011-09-22T11:27:20.736-04:00

The mood was tense. Hurricane Irene had forced hundreds of distraught New Jerseyans to seek shelter in Rowan University's gymnasium. The college president put out a call for volunteers. "The first thing that came to me was 'I can help with music,'" said the dean of the Department of Fine and Performing Arts. A saxophonist as well as conductor of the Rowan University Concert Band, he took his sax

Frank Mullen IIIhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08425145870883194880noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31772436.post-48222241886197992432011-09-01T14:48:00.001-04:002011-09-01T14:49:44.666-04:00

Computers in the classroom. MP3 players in the practice rooms. What's next--private bathrooms in the barracks? Oh...never mind. .

Frank Mullen IIIhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08425145870883194880noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31772436.post-76296979332781691192011-08-31T15:39:00.000-04:002011-08-31T15:41:37.407-04:00

We take take pride in our appearance. We have to; when we are on duty, we're in public. One of the first things drilled into us was was the military musician's foundational priciple: "How you look is just as important as how you sound." But I gotta tell you: cute goes a long way, too.

Frank Mullen IIIhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08425145870883194880noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31772436.post-24800385939850737972011-08-09T15:01:00.002-04:002011-08-09T15:03:45.871-04:00

Frank Mullen IIIhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08425145870883194880noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31772436.post-51244102458189416762011-07-30T16:56:00.002-04:002011-07-30T16:56:22.864-04:00

There you were in the mid-1990s, traveling with the U.S. Navy Showband, busy performing as a musical ambassador of your country, paying little attention to things that were happening back home in the states, such as this new computer thingie called "the Interweb," or "the World-Wide Something-or-other." How could you know what would happen to those videos in the next century?

Frank Mullen IIIhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08425145870883194880noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31772436.post-72087018355172792762011-07-17T13:49:00.002-04:002011-07-17T13:49:44.317-04:00

We were sailors first, musicians second. We forgot this at our peril and were reminded quickly and forcefully. I can thing of nothing more rewarding than the opportunity to spend a few days each year with those men and women who, for a few years or decades, offered their talents for the betterment of their country, then moved on to enjoy the blessings and challenges of the liberty they helped

Frank Mullen IIIhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08425145870883194880noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31772436.post-11960961342874713322011-07-08T18:13:00.001-04:002011-07-08T18:13:23.557-04:00

As feared and expected, the House of Representatives today passed its military appropriations bill with the severe cut to military band funding that had been bouncing in and out of the legislation From Reuters: One of the most successful budget-cutting efforts was led by Representative Betty McCollum, a Democrat who doggedly pressed her drive to slash more than $120 million for military

Frank Mullen IIIhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08425145870883194880noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31772436.post-29068220986690519602011-07-08T09:53:00.000-04:002011-07-08T09:53:00.161-04:00

Friday 8JUL11 EDT The House of Representatives is now in session. Their goal for today is to pass their final defense appropriations act. Write now. Later will be too late. You can do it in two minutes. Copy this letter to your clipboard, then click here to find your congressman and paste the text into the web form. ------------------------ I urge you to restore full funding for military

Frank Mullen IIIhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08425145870883194880noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31772436.post-70233715622057158892011-07-07T15:30:00.004-04:002011-07-07T15:59:32.635-04:00

The the budget cut for military bands, removed yesterday by voice vote yesterday, have been re-instated by vote. More and better info here at: The Hill  The Washington Post.

Frank Mullen IIIhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08425145870883194880noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31772436.post-55422947261594945122011-07-07T13:08:00.000-04:002011-07-07T13:08:05.252-04:00

By voice vote, the U.S. House of Representaves passed an amendment by Rep. John Carter (R-Tex) to restore full funding for military bands in the National Defense Authorization Act for 2012.  "The facts about our bands are that they are an integral part of the patriotism that keeps our soldiers' hearts beating fast," Carter said.  More and better information is available at The Associated Press

Frank Mullen IIIhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08425145870883194880noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31772436.post-60350185603501369262011-07-02T14:59:00.002-04:002011-07-02T14:59:59.045-04:00

I'm re-reading The Caine Mutiny for the 200th time. Though Herman Wouk's Pulitzer Prize-winning 1951 novel depicts the Navy during World War II, the Navy of my father and grandfather, it's the same Navy I served in in the '70s and '80s and, no doubt, the same Navy as yours, no matter when you served. It contains the quote that was still passed around freely in my first band in 1975: "The Navy

Frank Mullen IIIhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08425145870883194880noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31772436.post-28115872531296667672011-07-02T10:26:00.000-04:002011-07-02T10:26:13.750-04:00

I now emerge from a near-lethal dose of the creeping crud, having been laid low by a combination of reunion exhaustion and a day of close-quarters captivity in airplanes full of travelers exhaling the respiratory souvenirs from their own travels. I apologize for my recuperative silence. The period immediately following the annual Navy Musicians Association reunion is always a time of reflection,

Frank Mullen IIIhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08425145870883194880noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31772436.post-7272118244488595172011-06-29T16:35:00.004-04:002011-06-29T22:24:39.951-04:00

Bleary-eyed, exhausted and home. That's what I am. Actually, I got home late Monday, but have spent the intervening time in a recuperative stupor. But my brain is back, and I find myself already looking back fondly at a reunion that was a stand-out affair. -- It was big. I'll get the true figures, but the last time I looked at the sign-in sheet on Friday, over 120 of us had reported in. -- We

Frank Mullen IIIhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08425145870883194880noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31772436.post-92223732700053168592011-06-26T17:00:00.000-04:002011-06-26T17:00:01.929-04:00

Nothing would please me more than to spend this day, my last in Viriginia Beach, than dumping streams of photos, videos and tall stories about the NMA reunion onto the Internet. Sigh. As regular visitors have notice, the Internet service in the hotel has been, shall we say, spotty. It comes and goes; when it comes, I do my best, and when it goes, I fume. In fact, I spent a long, productive phone

Frank Mullen IIIhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08425145870883194880noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31772436.post-7144497856790874782011-06-26T15:00:00.000-04:002011-06-26T15:00:03.453-04:00

Frank Mullen IIIhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08425145870883194880noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31772436.post-47265499119980971772011-06-26T11:37:00.000-04:002011-06-26T11:37:01.163-04:00

Our seabags are packed and we're heading home. Our homes are in different ports, and they call us back to families, jobs, responsibilities. But throughout the lobby on Sunday morning, you'll hear everyone saying the same four words, words that sum up our feelings about the week, each other and the NMA: "See you next year."

Frank Mullen IIIhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08425145870883194880noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31772436.post-67686598831367077202011-06-26T09:38:00.001-04:002011-06-26T09:38:07.239-04:00

I did something I haven't done since the days of the Brass Bell, the Shipwreck Lounge and the Reef: I closed the place down. It was the last night of the NMA reunion. Now it's the first day of the rest of the year. But first, a few more hours of shut-eye. I will be back. With stories. With photos. And with a glad heart.

Frank Mullen IIIhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08425145870883194880noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31772436.post-62324093150577334642011-06-25T15:00:00.000-04:002011-06-25T15:00:01.521-04:00

As I noted earlier, Melanie Leketa pitched in to fill out our concert band's instrumentation by playing a clarinet borrowed from Terry Chesson. Everyone agrees that she did a fine job; more than one member has noted that Terry's clarinet never sounded better . . .

Frank Mullen IIIhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08425145870883194880noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31772436.post-58056605674943258212011-06-25T13:17:00.002-04:002011-06-25T13:17:48.485-04:00

Here's the unofficial, unedited, sort-of-accurate rundown of the annual Saturday morning meeting of the members of the Navy Musicians Association: -- President Chesson spoke on the various ways members may contribute to the NMA in addition to taking positions as elected officers. Recruiting new members, of course, is Job One; it's every member's responsibility to pass the word to potential

Frank Mullen IIIhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08425145870883194880noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31772436.post-34796662910884301232011-06-24T21:00:00.000-04:002011-06-24T21:00:02.097-04:00

Frank Mullen IIIhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08425145870883194880noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31772436.post-81995274321347052662011-06-24T19:00:00.000-04:002011-06-24T19:00:01.868-04:00

The Navy Musicians Association will accommodate you whenever possible; a happy sailor is a productive sailor. Your dream sheet may list your three top reunion priorites as big band, jam session and sea stories. But remember, the needs of the NMA come first. Singer Melanie Leketa was reminded of this when the detailer assigned her to the concert band's clarinet section.

Frank Mullen IIIhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08425145870883194880noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31772436.post-14986024678907661632011-06-24T17:00:00.000-04:002011-06-24T17:00:01.676-04:00

We're still arriving. Tom Metcalf last night, Ray Ascione afternoon. It's always difficult to get officers rounded up. Second-time attendee Pete Codispoti finished his day's work in Pennslyvania and couldn't wait one more day to leave for the reunion. He took off in his car and arrived in Virginia Beach at one in the morning, chowed down at Denny's and hung out until we woke up the next day. We

Frank Mullen IIIhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08425145870883194880noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31772436.post-26711930608114055682011-06-24T15:00:00.000-04:002011-06-24T15:00:02.597-04:00

Frank Mullen IIIhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08425145870883194880noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31772436.post-9470600809736601412011-06-24T12:00:00.000-04:002011-06-24T12:00:08.705-04:00

The reunion continues, but the good times have screeched to a halt. Lee Hudson has arrived, hauling along with him his bottomelss seabag full of personality defects and character flaws.

Frank Mullen IIIhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08425145870883194880noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31772436.post-28446392958965349822011-06-24T10:02:00.004-04:002011-06-24T10:02:43.178-04:00

Wow. The place was packed and we played fast, slow, loud and late. And those of us on the bandstand had no more fun than those in the crowd.

Frank Mullen IIIhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08425145870883194880noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31772436.post-91317487871501290182011-06-24T08:00:00.003-04:002011-06-24T08:00:01.917-04:00

Frank Mullen IIIhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08425145870883194880noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31772436.post-80245063496171579692011-06-24T08:00:00.000-04:002011-06-23T23:43:58.464-04:00

With its capability of virtually-instant deployment and low manpower-requirements, the NMA's new Fast Attack Stealth Duo has proven its worth. Shown here in the lobby of the Holiday Inn, the John Derby--Max Murray FASD demonstrates the unit's value as a financially self-sustaining operation.

Frank Mullen IIIhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08425145870883194880noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31772436.post-71974348978617493712011-06-23T18:05:00.001-04:002011-06-23T18:05:25.801-04:00

I've told you on Leger Lines. I've told you at Navy Lyres. I've told you face to face: Check. The. Rehearsal. Board.

Frank Mullen IIIhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08425145870883194880noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31772436.post-20422389036933284702011-06-23T15:00:00.000-04:002011-06-23T15:00:00.570-04:00

As always, the strength of a Navy band is its capacity to break down into smaller ensembles.

Frank Mullen IIIhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08425145870883194880noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31772436.post-66284777438766694982011-06-23T13:12:00.001-04:002011-06-23T13:12:55.932-04:00

. . . is to finish strong.

Frank Mullen IIIhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08425145870883194880noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31772436.post-41950027862250559352011-06-23T08:00:00.000-04:002011-06-23T08:00:00.216-04:00

Yesterday, I promised myself I'd go to bed early. Really. I've been telling myself that for days, but always wound  pushing midnight with friends in the lobby, the lounge or at the pool. Yesterday, I meant it. Really. I left the jam session at nine while the band was still cooking. Came upstairs, posted here a bit and decided to hit the rack. But a quiet voice said, "Things are probably winding

Frank Mullen IIIhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08425145870883194880noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31772436.post-81383854168685341582011-06-22T20:32:00.000-04:002011-06-22T20:32:43.780-04:00

Frank Mullen IIIhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08425145870883194880noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31772436.post-54521358376420337062011-06-22T18:00:00.000-04:002011-06-22T18:00:02.957-04:00

Particulary on the first day of the NMA reunion, you'll see old pals embracing each other, hearts overflowing with fond memories. The scene depicted here, however, is not intended to resemble the emotions that will be flowing through my sould when Lee Hudson finally shows up.

Frank Mullen IIIhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08425145870883194880noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31772436.post-3373620823374746032011-06-22T16:00:00.000-04:002011-06-22T16:00:02.645-04:00

Sometime in the morning, the stands are set up, the piano plugged in and the music passed out, and we're ready to play. Well, almost. First, Rehearsal Director John Branam has to get us all playing on the same page. At the same time. On the same chart.But when he does, the same thing happens that happened last year, and the year before that, and the year before that: We swing.

Frank Mullen IIIhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08425145870883194880noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31772436.post-91498261041718310952011-06-22T14:00:00.002-04:002011-06-22T14:00:06.443-04:00

I saw my first master chief, J.J. Connor, getting out of his car outside the hotel. "Hi, master chief," I said. "Hi, Mullen," he replied. Mullen. He still calls me 'Mullen.'" It sounded good. Real good.

Frank Mullen IIIhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08425145870883194880noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31772436.post-1101614164748266362011-06-22T12:00:00.002-04:002011-06-22T22:54:23.850-04:00

"Frank," called the guy walking into the bar with a trumpet case. "How are you?:. "Good to see you, Carl." I said. "I just heard you were coming." We got to talking about friends in common, duty stations and the Navy days. LT Carl Gerhard is still having his Navy days. He's the XO of the School of Music and a card-carrying, jazz-blowing member of the NMA. Our brief greeting was typical of those

Frank Mullen IIIhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08425145870883194880noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31772436.post-56610036426640816202011-06-22T10:00:00.000-04:002011-06-22T10:00:04.444-04:00

The roughes day of a cruise or road trip is the first. The band hasn't found its routine yet. Gremlins and glitches join forces to thwart progress. But, no doubt, we'll hit our stride--as soon as we find a three-pronged plug, the stand lights and the 2nd alto book.

Frank Mullen IIIhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08425145870883194880noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31772436.post-11813153219371072952011-06-22T09:00:00.002-04:002011-06-22T09:00:09.971-04:00

At 0800, the Holiday Inn was still quiet. But hidden in a corner was a vivid reminder of the pandemonium to come.

Frank Mullen IIIhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08425145870883194880noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31772436.post-20649955364803772812011-06-22T07:00:00.000-04:002011-06-22T07:00:19.600-04:00

So I stroll down to the lounge at eight last night, figuring a few early-birds will probably show up, play a few tunes and hit the rack early. I was wrong. The bar was packed, the band was cooking, and the whole place stayed packed and cooking for hours. I stuck it out until eleven, when it hit me: this is fun, but I can't stay up all night--I gotta go to a reunion tomorrow morning. Film at

Frank Mullen IIIhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08425145870883194880noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31772436.post-32629338331168765832011-06-21T21:30:00.000-04:002011-06-21T21:30:01.013-04:00

A lot of reunion time is spent finding out what your shipmates have been up to. In Dave Whitaker's case, it's interesting to see what he's down to. Dave and his doctor had a little talk--perhaps the sort discussion we used to call a "counseling session"-- after last year's San Antonio get-together. Obviously, Dave listened. My old shipmate has lost 100 pounds this year. He's so fit and

Frank Mullen IIIhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08425145870883194880noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31772436.post-66629833784121507432011-06-21T19:33:00.003-04:002011-06-21T19:33:42.099-04:00

The equipment is set up in the lounge. The place is packed. Horn players are roaming the room like sharks. Drummers and bassists are also present. They are safe from attack, but their time is limited. Because, sooner or later, a pianist will walk in. The critical mass will be achieved. The sharks will descend upon him, some forcing him onto the bandstand while other pull trumpets from cases and

Frank Mullen IIIhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08425145870883194880noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31772436.post-52625527700483460432011-06-21T18:00:00.005-04:002011-06-21T18:00:00.497-04:00

As always, the fashion-conscious MU will find a broad selection of NMA garb available for sale in the registration room. This year, however, brings something I particularly prize: the time-honored, simple unit cap. A basic blue cover with unit name and logo emblazoned in gold, it's just like those worn by millions of Navy vets who take pride in their service and still honor its traditions.

Frank Mullen IIIhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08425145870883194880noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31772436.post-30183891333771622522011-06-21T16:00:00.000-04:002011-06-21T16:00:03.561-04:00

The NMA's highly-skilled staff of registrars sits poised to welcome you to the reunion with a friendly smile, a hearty hello and an endless stream of haranguing, harassment and general disparagement.

Frank Mullen IIIhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08425145870883194880noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31772436.post-76985546915844682272011-06-21T13:48:00.002-04:002011-06-21T13:48:45.888-04:00

The NMA doesn't really have a quarterdeck, so you don't have to remember which comes first--saluting the National Ensign or saluting the OOD. But you do have remember to sign in, so we know who's here. But even if you're a day early, you might as well sign in and avoid the rush

Frank Mullen IIIhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08425145870883194880noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31772436.post-85637184416852384012011-06-21T12:00:00.000-04:002011-06-21T12:00:02.210-04:00

Last evening, a panel truck drove by the hotel bearing a sign that said: "24-hour Tattoo Removal." What seems like a good idea when the bartender says "Last call" doesn't necessarily have the same magic the following morning when the adjutant says, "First Call."

Frank Mullen IIIhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08425145870883194880noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31772436.post-88812914964716595432011-06-21T10:00:00.000-04:002011-06-21T10:00:05.128-04:00

Please pardon the currently high text-to-picture ratio. The hotel's WI-FI is still awkward, and I'm posting from the business center. Of course, those who enjoy photos without Mullen Auto-Blur may be pleased by the change. - - - - - - As always on pre-reunion Tuesdays, the rumors about who's coming are flying around the hotel. My old neighbor, Phil Heim is expected. I lived around the corner

Frank Mullen IIIhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08425145870883194880noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31772436.post-14289844716561287252011-06-21T08:25:00.000-04:002011-06-21T08:26:03.000-04:00

Holiday Inn amenities: first class. Holiday Inn service: second to none. Holiday Inn WI-FI: third world.

Frank Mullen IIIhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08425145870883194880noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31772436.post-75300371277694389362011-06-21T07:53:00.000-04:002011-06-21T07:53:03.998-04:00

I met with NMA President Terry Chesson in the Holiday Inn lounge last night. Advance registrations for the NMA reunion are at or above usual levels. Since a lot of attendees register at the door, and a number of first-timers and irregulars are expected, it looks like a big one. How about you? There's still time to say, "Honey, how important is that church potluck on Thursday night?"

Frank Mullen IIIhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08425145870883194880noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31772436.post-11427712290154839072011-06-20T21:00:00.000-04:002011-06-21T07:51:14.257-04:00

This year, I've decided to put extra effort into learning the names of members' spouses. This afternoon, I ran into our rehearsal conductor, John Branam, who introduced me to his wife, Cindy. How do I remember that six hours later? Simple, since I already know they live in Indiana. Indiana / Indians / Westerns / Western Territories / Arizona / John McCain / John and Cindy McCain / Joan and

Frank Mullen IIIhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08425145870883194880noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31772436.post-42072575120691828382011-06-20T19:30:00.001-04:002011-06-21T07:51:14.262-04:00

We've taken on a bit of water today. Duh--it's summer in Virgina.

Frank Mullen IIIhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08425145870883194880noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31772436.post-59036814842055930922011-06-20T18:02:00.000-04:002011-06-21T07:52:21.477-04:00

I'm not worried about expenses here in Virginia Beach. Any number of nearby institutions stand ready to help finance the week's activivies.

Frank Mullen IIIhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08425145870883194880noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31772436.post-70733340803829779672011-06-20T15:47:00.000-04:002011-06-21T07:52:21.487-04:00

Flying to the NMA reunion? Arranging transportation to the Holiday Inn is easy. Follow signs for Ground Transportation. By the luggage carousel are free phones. Dial the listed code and the desk clerk will tell you when to expect Chris or one of his fellow drivers. He'll pick you up outside and whisk you here pronto. Oh, and be sure you don't get off at the Hampton Inn, or you'll spend the

Frank Mullen IIIhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08425145870883194880noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31772436.post-69312271940139601932011-06-20T13:48:00.001-04:002011-06-21T07:52:21.483-04:00

This morning, I left my room and went downstairs to get a cup of coffee. It took me 2 minutes to get down, and 45 minutes to get back up. I ran into a couple of MUs--Jim and Stephanie Richards--and there was a lot to talk about. Jim, Stephanie, Bob, Leon, Kim--considering that the reunion doesn't start for two more days, I've run into quite a few of us already. This photo shot with

Frank Mullen IIIhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08425145870883194880noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31772436.post-88200236025888367672011-06-20T11:19:00.001-04:002011-06-21T07:52:21.491-04:00

Hard as it may be to believe, the NMA is not the only group that meets at the Holiday Inn. Last night, what we think of as our registration room was the site of someone else's get-together. The 351st has now left, and the NMA is moving in. This morning, I ran into Bob Leketa, Kim Holl and Leon Harris, who had just finished moving our equipment into the hotel. Oh, what bad timing on

Frank Mullen IIIhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08425145870883194880noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31772436.post-43277529140710298292011-06-20T10:30:00.003-04:002011-06-21T07:52:21.462-04:00

I has arrived.I got in late last night and checked in the Holiday Inn. I'm still exhausted, so I may engage in a little late-morning rack time. But let me say this: When my driver dropped me off in front of the hotel, I the outside was familiar... but, inside: wow. as NMA President Terry Chesson told us in the Leger Lines, the place has been way, way renovated.  I'll post more this

Frank Mullen IIIhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08425145870883194880noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31772436.post-44410757357060217392011-06-19T08:09:00.000-04:002011-06-21T07:52:21.467-04:00

I'll be leaving soon for the Quad Cities Airport for my flight to Virginia Beach--if thunderstorms don't delay or cancel my flight. I'll arrive this evening, if thunderstorms don't reroute my flight to South Orlando Municipal Airport. Yeah, I keep mentioning thunderstorms. You would too, if you'd been looking at the weather map. But last year, tornadoes were predicted, and it turned out to be

Frank Mullen IIIhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08425145870883194880noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31772436.post-53418978344460494242011-06-18T14:54:00.000-04:002011-06-21T07:53:26.290-04:00

Last night I finished my last shift at the local library. I fly to Virginia Beach tomorrow. I'm remembering that antsy feeling from the Navy, when you've signed out at the quarterdeck, picked up your leave papers, but still have to wait overnight for your flight. I should be packing, but I'm blogging, looking for news of the defense budget, answering emails. And thinking about the year since

Frank Mullen IIIhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08425145870883194880noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31772436.post-57311736090098222192011-06-18T13:31:00.001-04:002011-06-18T13:32:38.771-04:00

Secretary of Defense Robert Gates has recommended ADM Jonathan Greenert for nomination as the next Chief of Naval Operations. ADM Greenert is a friend to Navy music. In 2009, as he was finishing his duties as Commander of U.S. Fleet Forces and preparing to take the position of Vice-CNO, he was our guest at the Navy Musicians Association reunion.

Frank Mullen IIIhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08425145870883194880noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31772436.post-20826506712562141082011-06-18T06:00:00.000-04:002011-06-18T06:00:06.356-04:00

NO JO Sadly, my wife will not be coming to the reunion this year. Nurses' work schedules are notoriously iffy. We'd hope that she'd be able to come at least for a few days, like she did last year. Alas, it is not to be. I'll just have to soldier on without her.     WITHIN WALKING DISTANCE OF THE HOTEL If you're coming to Virginia Beach without  a car, there are a number of conveniences

Frank Mullen IIIhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08425145870883194880noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31772436.post-11458990081724076912011-06-17T15:39:00.000-04:002011-06-17T18:53:48.999-04:00

The Senate Armed Services Committee has released the summary of its final markup session yesterday. There is no mention of cuts to military bands. This doesn't mean cuts, perhaps severe cuts, weren't included. While waiting for detail information, I'm trying to put a positive interpretation on the fact the military band cutbacks are not mentioned. The best I can do is this: "Gee, you'd think

Frank Mullen IIIhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08425145870883194880noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31772436.post-89405025705473817952011-06-17T07:00:00.019-04:002011-06-17T15:23:15.001-04:00

Been hearin' from a few of us who can't come to the reunion this year. I'll miss you, OJ, Everett, Frank, John. But in answer to your questions, yes, I'll be live blogging the NMA reunion again this year. These sappy little instalments of The Daily Poop will end on Sunday, when I'll fly out of Moline International (HaHa) Airport. Monday, I'll begin the warm-up from Virginia Beach. - - - - - -

Frank Mullen IIIhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08425145870883194880noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31772436.post-70208062588023145232011-06-16T10:24:00.018-04:002011-06-16T10:47:20.927-04:00

Published June 16, 2011 Rock Island Argus Moline Dispatch  One afternoon in late December of 1975, a trombone player pounded on my barracks door.  "Liberty is cancelled!" he hollered. "Jump in your working uniform and get to rehearsal: we're doing Bob Hope's Christmas show tonight!"  This was news to me. As a Navy Musician, I checked the band's schedule daily. When I went to sleep, I

Frank Mullen IIIhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08425145870883194880noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31772436.post-65952660546867960202011-06-16T06:00:00.000-04:002011-06-16T06:00:01.110-04:00

Advance registration figures show that this year's NMA reunion could be a big one. I've been guessing that, despite the economy, this might be the case. Economics is about making choices, and it looks like a lot of us have chosen to spend time with our shipmates. This is terrific. And the reunion is shaping into a terrific event, too. NMA President Terry Chesson says it's official: we'll have a

Frank Mullen IIIhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08425145870883194880noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31772436.post-58220026854222363812011-06-15T14:48:00.040-04:002011-06-15T15:09:51.126-04:00

Today, the National Defense Authorization Act for 2012--the military budget--comes out of subcommittees to the full Senate Armed Services Committee. We do not yet know how the Personnel Committee, in particular, handled the severe cuts to military band funding that the House of Representatives has proposed. I would not expect them to be screaming "Paaarty!" and throwing hundred-dollar bills

Frank Mullen IIIhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08425145870883194880noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31772436.post-92197941025017485812011-06-15T07:00:00.000-04:002011-06-15T14:44:39.202-04:00

What they're up to: My old San Francisco shipmate, Bob Nolan spent time this week sending messages in support of funding for military bands to the Senate Armed Forces Committee. Frank Kemp is planning to attend the reunion in Orlando next year, or Virginia Beach in '13. Those west coast guys truly operate in a different time zone. Lee Hudson is working on ways to make the reunion a

Frank Mullen IIIhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08425145870883194880noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31772436.post-53863316880366467622011-06-14T06:00:00.000-04:002011-06-14T06:00:08.393-04:00

One week from today, Tuesday the 21st, the Early Birds will be roaming the hotel. I wouldn't be surprised if the evening ends with a little jamming in the lounge. It's happened before. In fact, I've been to five reunions, and every one of them has wound up with the backfield in motion before the starting whistle. Yesterday, I wrote to all the members of the Senate Armed Forces Committee and

Frank Mullen IIIhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08425145870883194880noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31772436.post-48949452283099525102011-06-13T11:08:00.050-04:002011-06-13T12:45:20.070-04:00

The short version: If you want to preserve military bands, write to the Personnel Subcommittee of the Senate Armed Forces Committee right now. Scroll down to the section "HOW." Do it now. Later is too late. The fuller version: The National Defense Authorization Act that will provide the budget for—or decimation of—military bands will be finalized in the Senate within days. Subcommittees of the

Frank Mullen IIIhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08425145870883194880noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31772436.post-36975926065758695522011-06-13T06:00:00.038-04:002011-06-13T06:00:14.845-04:00

In one week, I'll be in Virginia Beach. I'm arriving a couple of days early, to get a head start on enjoying the brisk and invigorating air of Virginia Beach in late June. I'll be blogging from the hotel starting on Monday. - - - - - - - -  Speaking of which: Recently I sent a message--"Live-blogging the Reunion"-- to every email address on the NMA roster . If you didn't get it, the NMA

Frank Mullen IIIhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08425145870883194880noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31772436.post-51644263938397570712011-06-12T06:00:00.094-04:002011-06-12T06:00:05.476-04:00

Whaddaya mean, you're not coming to the NMA reunion because you can get away for four or five day? You don't need to. Many of us come for ony part of the reunion. Because of work and other obligations, some members don't arrive until Friday. That's okay--our major functions are on Friday and Saturday evenings. Conversely, some have to be back home on the weekend and arrive Tuesday or Wednesday

Frank Mullen IIIhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08425145870883194880noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31772436.post-72036804944810247502011-06-11T06:00:00.044-04:002011-06-11T06:00:02.247-04:00

Holy smokes--the NMA reunion begins in only 10 days. That's no time at all--I spent longer stretches of time than that writing charts in the chief's mess in the flicker of a battle lantern while the Blue Ridge ran loss-of-power drills in the Indian Ocean. - - - - - - - - The wife of an old shipmate wrote to me and said that she and her husband have a happy marriage. But, she said, "I've come to

Frank Mullen IIIhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08425145870883194880noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31772436.post-59775363436890450132011-06-10T06:00:00.003-04:002011-06-10T06:00:14.618-04:00

In the recent issue of Leger Lines, I saw that the NMA reunion features an an optional cruise on the Spirit of Norfolk. Here's what I want to know: is there anyone in the NMA who was ever stationed in Norfolk or Little Creek who hasn't played on the Spirit of Norfolk? When I was stationed at the school, I gigged on the Love Boat, at various times, with MUs John Pastin, Phil Field, Max Stumf, Roy

Frank Mullen IIIhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08425145870883194880noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31772436.post-59062953865474743882011-06-09T06:00:00.026-04:002011-06-09T06:00:03.499-04:00

Have you registered for the reunion yet? You can do it when you arrive in Virginia Beach, of course, but it's easier on the system if you do it in advance. - - - - - - - - A few decades of water flowing under the bridge has carried me to a time of life where I'm more mature, open-minded and forgiving. Except where Lee Hudson is concerned. He's coming to the NMA reunion again. All the way

Frank Mullen IIIhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08425145870883194880noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31772436.post-71108407115100830812011-06-08T17:47:00.054-04:002011-06-08T20:56:02.043-04:00

The Navy Musicians Association reunion begins two weeks from today. Officially, that is. I'll be sneaking into town Sunday night, June 19; I need the extra time to learn how to use my camera. Figuring out how to turn on the flash would improve my coverage of the reunions significantly. - - - - - - - - An important thing I've learned about our reunions is they're not just about old friends--new

Frank Mullen IIIhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08425145870883194880noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31772436.post-89584821480116030322011-06-07T08:23:00.000-04:002011-06-07T13:44:11.441-04:00

News, views and snooze in preparation for the Navy Musicians Association reunion. Two weeks and a wakeup. - - - - - - - - Two of my old Navy Band Newport shipmates will be returning to the NMA reunion after missing the fun in San Antonio last year: Max Murry (bass) and Tom Wholley (piano) came to the reunion for the first time in Virginia Beach two years ago. I'm glad they've agreed to a

Frank Mullen IIIhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08425145870883194880noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31772436.post-63640167469881256352011-06-06T12:39:00.000-04:002011-06-06T12:39:31.355-04:00

NMA Officers Planning 2011 Reunion.  Barely two weeks until the NMA reunion officially begins in Virginia Beach. Two weeks of incessant blogging. Welcome to Year Four of The Daily Poop. - - - - - - - - I've had a few questions about ground transportation from the airport to the hotel--some of us are flying to Virginia Beach for the first time. Arranging a shuttle ride from the airport is easy--

Frank Mullen IIIhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08425145870883194880noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31772436.post-74066857422067901512011-06-01T13:32:00.001-04:002011-06-01T15:36:20.032-04:00

The thought that congress might cut the budget for military bands is no longer a vague worry. The threat is now on active duty. The House of Representatives has approved the National Defense Authorization Act for 2012. This bill reduces military band funding by more than 1/3, reducing the current appropriation of $320 million to $200 million. Ouch. I have strong, although mixed, feelings about

Frank Mullen IIIhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08425145870883194880noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31772436.post-76537280575016346292011-05-28T19:19:00.001-04:002011-05-28T19:21:01.456-04:00

We've heard all the jokes-- "You play in a Navy band? What do you really do?" "You guys sound pretty good--you could be professionals." "It must be soft duty, just marching around and tooting your flute." It becomes pointless to argue. People believe what they want to believe. But we Navy musicians know what the job is. And we know that the job, like any other in the Navy, can be dangerous. 

Frank Mullen IIIhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08425145870883194880noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31772436.post-58892664014552374222011-05-25T21:31:00.002-04:002011-05-26T09:37:48.703-04:00

Frank Mullen IIIhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08425145870883194880noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31772436.post-19663184854694187712011-05-20T11:59:00.004-04:002011-05-20T12:08:54.101-04:00

Oringinally published Rock Island ArgusMoline DispatchMay 19, 2011 I didn't mind playing for Navy ship arrivals. Of course, I would have preferred to spend the afternoon in the band's rehearsal hall, catching up on paperwork or working on a new march, but, given that Navy musicians have to earn their way, just like the quartermasters and gunner's mates, a ship arrival was cake, a skate job: Form

Frank Mullen IIIhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08425145870883194880noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31772436.post-41475118435171576272011-05-17T22:15:00.000-04:002011-05-17T22:15:21.685-04:00

Frank Mullen IIIhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08425145870883194880noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31772436.post-63950753435798632172011-05-16T11:16:00.002-04:002011-05-16T11:17:46.491-04:00

I drag this one out of mothballs every spring because it still fits. -------------------------------- I found sea duty difficult. As the band's chief, I was the referee of a Texas cage match among sixteen professional wrestlers. I was the marriage counselor for the sax player who got the bad letter from his wife. I was trip planner who had to beg for an admiral's barge so the combo would be

Frank Mullen IIIhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08425145870883194880noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31772436.post-88670367079309214792011-04-16T15:43:00.012-04:002011-04-16T16:47:39.491-04:00

Get with the program, sailor. We're gearing up for the reunion and want you to join us. Now's the time to join the Navy Musicians Association and register for the 2011 reunion.  Who: All past and present U.S. Navy Musicians. - What: Navy Musicians Association 2011 Reunion. - When: Wed., June 22 through Sat., June 25. - Where: Holiday Inn Executive Center, 5655 Greenwich Road, Virginia

Frank Mullen IIIhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08425145870883194880noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31772436.post-32381325366337835002011-04-11T22:33:00.002-04:002011-04-30T17:01:24.582-04:00

(Updated below.) The problem: Sporting events that open with insulting renditions of the United States National Anthem performed by talentless pop "singers" whose self-aggrandizing vocal gymnastics destroy the dignity of the occasion. The solution: a Navy band. Update - 30APR11 A reader from the US Navy Band informs me this is the USNB. As you can see in his/her comment below, a better

Frank Mullen IIIhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08425145870883194880noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31772436.post-86893466296189586972011-03-04T13:26:00.000-05:002011-03-04T13:26:29.260-05:00

Barely 100 days remain until the 2011 reunion of the Navy Musicians Association, June 22-25 in Virginia Beach. If you haven't joined us at a reunion yet, I hope you'll consider doing so.   What are our reunions like? A Reunion Remembered provides a brief rundown of my first reunion, Louisville, 2006. But a more thorough way to get the sense of an NMA reunion is to look at the June archives 

Frank Mullen IIIhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08425145870883194880noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31772436.post-20649542933962733222011-02-27T19:55:00.002-05:002011-02-27T19:55:18.562-05:00

Listening to a rebroadcast of yesterday's broadcast of "Prairie Home Companion," featuring Navy Band Southwest, I was struck not only by the band's professionalism, but by host Garrison Keillor's expression of appreciation for Navy bands. The Navy's bands are "so important in the life of the Navy," he said. He pointed out that they perform for ceremonies, funerals, government and public events,

Frank Mullen IIIhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08425145870883194880noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31772436.post-86380818994011358522011-02-26T19:37:00.002-05:002011-02-26T19:56:43.475-05:00

I'm listening to Navy Band Southwest, a featured musical guest on "Prairie Home Companion." They're being well-received; the broadcast is from San Diego. The band, under the direction of LT Mark K. Corbliss, has already performed a few marches, a service medley and a sing-along version of "America, the Beautiful." And the show isn't over yet. You can probably catch a rebroadcast of the show

Frank Mullen IIIhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08425145870883194880noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31772436.post-17566819504296321782011-02-06T14:39:00.044-05:002011-02-06T15:07:51.207-05:00

My ongoing search for performance videos of members of the Navy Musicians Association has unleashed a lot of laughter. Today, I've found a clip of NMA member Mike Burch-Pesses, Director of Bands at Pacific University, delivering closing remarks at the "Music In May" high school music festival and conducting the combined orchestra, band and chorus. But this time, I'm not laughing. Rather, I'm

Frank Mullen IIIhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08425145870883194880noreply@blogger.com0