Over the past few weeks, the prison band, Another Day Down, has been practicing for an upcoming concert and graduation ceremony that we played on Friday. The graduation went really well. He played No Woman No Cry (Bob Marley), Southern Cross (Crosby, Stills, & Nash), Brown Eyed Girl, and Wagon Wheel. These are all songs that are fun to play and other members of the band have stepped up their game with singing. Unfortunately, it would be the last time that the longest reigning member of the band would play, which brings our number to 6 members. I’m now the most tenured member, which pretty much means that I’ve just been in Morgantown longer.
Being in the band provides a unique opportunity to mentally “escape” from the confines of the prison. We practice three times per week and currently have a 19 song setlist for the upcoming Veteran’s Day Concert. These practices certainly help the time pass quickly. It really does not feel like being in a prison at times since we have such a great time together. As I have previously remarked, the guys that I play with are near professional status in singing, drums, guitar, and creativity. We have an incredible band with amazing musical dynamics. I’m saddened to see another great member leave but happy that he’ll be home by Thanksgiving. To speak to the excellence of our band, the warden enjoys hearing us and asks us to play several events. I guess she has shared videos of us that have been posted on an internal site just for the Bureau of Prisons, where all the comments mention how excellent our band is. I’m blessed to be a part of this talented group and contribute my passion for playing keyboard/piano with the rest of them.
The prison does not do anything for Halloween (and we do not dress up at all or have candy). The weather has been near perfect! No rain, clear skies, and very warm days. November started off as one of the warmest that I’ve experienced. I have been playing quite a bit of pickleball, which too, helps the time pass by. Thank you for taking the time to catch up on my experience at Morgantown. I cannot stress enough how much I appreciate your support and encouragement over these many months. I hope you have a great week and be mindful of any little miracle in your life 🙂