The Sax Man

Gary is a very talented musician. His primary instruments are alto, soprano and tenor sax and if you keep your ears (and eyes) open this campaign season, you'll hear him playing a few bars with a group at a social or political function, in a parade, at his Church or just for pleasure with friends. Music is simply an important part of Gary's character and while some people never leave home without their laptops, Gary never does without his sax. He's the sax man.

What's remarkable about Gary is that he can play almost any type of music from jazz to rock to highbrow classical and he can do so with ease. Hence he's very comfortable stepping-in and playing with almost anyone, anywhere, even impromptu with musicians he's met while attending conferences in Europe. Perhaps I am so impressed because I've not only heard him play in varying venues, I've had the pleasure of being his accompanist on several occasions. Recently I queried Gary about his musical background so I could share it with all of you on this blog.

Like most kids when they are young, Gary played piano and guitar. When he was in the 6th grade, he went to Bob Farley at his music store and told him he wanted to take up the trombone, his inspiration being a good friend who played trombone. Much to Gary's disappointment, Mr. Farley told him his arms were just too short for the trombone and handed him a saxophone instead. It turned out to be a perfect fit and Gary became very proficient very quickly, playing in the All State Band while in high school. During his college years, he played in the marching and basketball pep bands, the symphonic wind ensemble and the jazz band.

Real life follows college and that's when most people are prone to put their musical instruments in a corner waiting for time, inclination or an opportunity to play but never finding same. Such was not the case for Gary. One of his pastimes even while serving in the New Mexico Legislature was playing blues and jazz in a classical rock 'n roll band. On one occasion his group had the special opportunity to play with Crosby Stills & Nash. (I wonder if they got that on tape?) I asked Gary if he has composed and he eagerly said , "Yes," while looking for a copy of his piece We Should Be Together which unfortunately was not in his folio that day. I'll have to urge him to play it at one of his functions.

Many of you know Gary long and well and are aware of his musical talent. For those of you who have never had the pleasure, I urge you to join the rest of us and watch for Gary on sax.