Sunday, July 10, 2016

Post-Bop and Avant-Garde Jazz Saxophonist Keith Gamble: Finding Compassion

Post-Bop and Avant-Garde Jazz Saxophonist Keith Gamble: Finding Compassion:      Bad things happen to good people. Sounds familiar, because we can all relate. I have never had an instrument stolen from me, but I can ...

Finding Compassion

     Bad things happen to good people. Sounds familiar, because we can all relate. I have never had an instrument stolen from me, but I can just imagine how gut-wrenching that must be. Sometime during the week of June 5, 2016, Chapel Hill, NC woodwind player Tim Smith was on his way to a gig when he experienced car trouble. Leaving his car he walked to the performance, and carrying essential equipment he needed for the job, while leaving everything else in his car. After his performance Tim Smith returned to his car only to discover someone had broken-in, stealing two saxophones, a flute, two microphones, and a PA system.

     Tim Smith is an inspirational saxophonist who`s positive lyrics and voice has performed in Compiegne, France, Philadelphia, PA, Russia, and North and South Carolina. Tim Smith performs original music and cover songs with a bluesy edge, and jazz sensibility. He plays with technique, soulful expression, and dynamic stage presence.

     Those of us who chose music as a career path knows and accepts we will likely not become financially rich playing music. Generally, we love and are passionate about our choice to pursue music. As musicians we bring art, entertainment, and joy to those who come to see us perform. However, life happens to us also. Woodwind player Tim Smith was a victim of theft.

     Friends of Tim Smith established a Go Fund Me account raising more than $7,000.00 in two days to replace Tim Smith`s stolen instruments. Congratulations, Tim Smith, and hopefully the money raised in the Tim Smith`s Instrument campaign is enough to replace everything that was stolen from your car. Also, thanks to all who contributed generously to fellow woodwind instrumentalist Tim Smith. This is what it means to be connected to an arts and music community. Remember, there are more good people out there who are kind, compassionate, and caring, than the evil that lurks.