Senior Sounds of the Season

It was kind of sad to realize tonight was Carter's last Christmas concert. Ever. From his singing as one of the wise men at church to the debut of his trumpet in 6th grade to tonight's standout sound on baritone, it's been a joyful listening experience.

Every year they designate the senior band members in the program. I'm not used to seeing his name and the word "senior" nearby. These lasts are coming and going too fast!

It was a good sounding group but there are 11 seniors that will not be part of the current 31-member band next year. Hopefully the middle school band, who also performed tonight, has plenty of 8th-graders coming on up. Not that I am biased, but the current senior class has produced some talented musicians. I'll miss that.

As usual, I couldn't quite zoom in with the phone camera for a decent shot of our boy, but he did pose for some post-concert pictures since this is the last Christmas one for many of them.

With classmates and good friends Nathaniel (who went to Germany with him) and Olivia (his best bud since 7th grade).

With his matchy-matchy friend Emily. Did they plan that?

Brass-kickers Tony and Carter – too cool to smile. But still so cute, right?

With his biggest fan, band director Molly Thomas. She's always had wonderful things to say about a boy who somehow inherited top-notch band skills from two choir-type parents. Good for him!

Jim's parents and sister also joined us for this last holiday hurrah. There will be a spring concert, too. And, of course, all those attempts to photograph pep band when he hides behind his horn.

I'll miss the challenge – and the sound.