In the past two nights I’ve heard two band concerts.  Don’t ask me why – I’m not sure.  I played in a professional band for seven years.  I knew what I was getting myself into, but for some reason I sill did it.  The music for bands in just not very good.  And for a number of reasons, it all kind of sounds the same.  I understand that band is really at its core an educational vehicle.  Thats fine.  And, I want as many people to participate in music as possible, but I literally wish we could get rid of most of the music and start over.  Or better yet, get rid of all band programs and start over.  Students of music deserve better, and we’re capable of delivering better.  Wouldn’t it be better if band curriculums in schools all over the US were replaced by programs like El Sistema in Venezuela.  At least the students would be brought up with exposure to better music!