Jon's performance at the Guitar Festival...

Jon did absolutely great!!! Susan and I agreed that he was the best, but I guess we were prejudiced! He didn't even place. The other big boy that sat in front of us won 2nd and even I noticed he goofed up a couple of times, but he was still good. Jon's critiques sheets all said the following: 1. SMILE 2. Watch your tempo. 3. Dress nicer. All the other guys had suit jackets and khaki's or jackets and ties. Jon had on a plaid button down and khaki's. We (him or me) did not know that it was as dressy as it was. Being the only one not in a jacket really cut his score, BUT we know for next time! And I told him to go to Gayfer's or somewhere and try on jackets and call me with the size and Momma'd start hitting ebay. We will be ready next time! And yes, appearance was a BIG thing. There was a couple there that were the managers of the career of the USM instructor and if I heard right also were Jimmy Buffet's managers and they knew squat about the te*****al side of the music. They were there simply to judge stage presence and appearance. They had 3 other guitar teachers (from various community colleges) for the techical stuff. So we lived and we learned. Thanks for thinking of him and asking about him. He had a great time! Smooch Arlies

Arlies, As a music major myself, I can completely understand everything Jon, and yourself, went through. ....I DON'T MISS IT!..... I'm so glad that he did it, and feels good about his performance. It's all about getting the experience! Dress to kill next time and they'll have NO reason to knock him! GEESH! I'm remembering one particluar Jury (final) that one of the ladies actually told me I looked sloppy. It was a no win situation - I'm "well endowed" and have NO waist. So when they required shirts tucked in, I was all hips and boobs! LOL Talk about giving a fat girl a huge complex. I still hate that woman! Oh well - live and learn! (and I've learned to never tuck) HUGS Kimberly

WoooHooo for Jon !!!! I know he did GREAT & if Momma likes it, that is all that matters !!! Personally, I wouldn't care if he played in overalls & a flannel shirt. Or even swim trunks. What your wearing doesn't change the sound. However, I guess some people listen with their eyes Hmmmmm............... Now I'm wondering....... What do they think with ? Where do they put their food in order to take a bite ? Tammy