For about a year back in the early/mid 1990's, I played bassoon in the Arkansas State University Wind Ensemble, Orchestra, and the double reed studio. The exact year escapes me, as most dates do. This escapade was at the behest of then Director of Bands Tom O'Neal, who convinced me to fill in a much needed vacancy in the bassoon section. It was during this time that I came to know Dan Ross.
Oh, I knew Dr. Ross from my previous years as a student at ASU, but I was a saxophone-playing music education major, and only knew him as that weird guy that buzzes around the halls like an airplane. And oh yeah, he's the oboe teacher, right?
After joining the double reed studio, I came to know Dr. Ross more closely, and I can honestly say that I am a better musician and human being for the experience. Regarding musicianship, Dr. Ross taught me that all the finger-wiggling in the world wouldn't make me a successful performer. Now mind you, the fingers have to wiggle at all the right moments, but that's just the beginning of what will become music. In order to cross the threshold from being just sound to becoming something worthy to be called music, the vital ingredient is heart.
