the day the music died

it ended as quickly as it began.

before i knew what had happened i was at the people's church on 941 w. lawrence, violin in hand. actually, that's a lie. i knew exactly what was going on, and i had willingly and gladly submitted myself. i was attending my first rehearsal for the lakeside.pride.orchestra. and yes, it does stand for THAT kind of pride. the kind of pride, as my mom so eloquently put it, "that you see in san fransico-- all the gays marching together." great, mom. i know you're 1. terrified that playing in a orchestra open to all sexual orientations will turn me into a raging lesbian and 2. that i will move to san fran, tune up, and start marching with them. well, no fear mom. i'm pretty sure i'm straight as susie high school, and i've never seen a violin in the marching band.

despite this, i have to admit the jokes about going to play in the gay orchestra never get old.

after attending my first rehearsal, i was thrilled i'd chosen to go. everyone was accepting and the level of play was right at where i'd hoped. plus, because everyone is fairly talented, the rehearsal was low-key and relaxed but still productive and satisfying.

after my first rehearsal we took two weeks of for various reasons. i returned for my 2nd rehearsal a few days ago, only to find i was being asked to turn in my music. i panicked.
have you changed your mind?
are you rejecting me because i'm straight!?
no, turns out we have no violas or cellos. it's hard to have an orchestra with no lower string section. so the gay orchestra is taking a bit of a break. hopefully only to return stronger and prouder than ever before this spring.