Family Traditions

Every family has its traditions, and one of ours is MoBand - short for Modesto Band of Stanislaus County. In its 91st season this year, it is hallmarked as one of the oldest continuously performing bands in the USA, composed of volunteer musicians and funded by private donations. Keith began playing trumpet in the annual six-week Concerts-in-the-Park series when Derek and Jamie were ages 6 and 7. Since then, each summer we'd make the weekly 45-minute drive, with picnic and blanket packed, to enjoy family time and music in the park. During her high school and college years, Jamie occasionally joined the band on clarinet.

With Jamie and Kendall visiting last week, we took advantage of the opportunity for a MoBand family outing again. Along with friends (and hundreds of other concert fans), we all enjoyed a lovely evening of music, sing-alongs, relaxing, and comfortable weather. Kendall loved watching Grandpa Keith playing in the baritone section, one of 120 musicians on stage in the bandshell that night. And so, the tradition has been officially introduced to the next generation!

Pre-concert visiting: Valerie Turner, Kendall and Jamie

Keith on baritone, TV camera filming behind him.

MoBand Conductor, and family friend, George Gardner

Sorry, George- Kendall wins the cutest bald head contest.

When baby gets hungry, mommy finds a place to nurse. :)

It's close to bedtime, but first- thumbtime.

Concert's over, packing up brass and baby to head home.