great evening at the tap room, a classic no-frills, neighborhood bar in nearby ypsilanti

i went there with a family whose sons i’ve taught and stayed close to as they’ve grown.

the night was organized by alex and his wife who own the ann arbor music center

and the rock band school for children and musicians of all ages

alex is a powerful musician in his own right, who plays, teaches, and builds guitars.

 

he works with local businesses and festivals to give his young bands a chance to play real gigs around town. 

on this night, the place was standing room only, kids sat in front of the stage, and musician, theo katzman

stopped by to support the kids in the bands, and sat with the young fans on the floor. 

a’s band was amazing. everyone in it is 9-10 years old and played their hearts out.

a is on keyboards and his beloved teacher played with them and is the vocalist.

 tonight we heard them play green day, cheap trick, and beatles.

and it was a musical wonder. 

there were photogs, and fans, and musicians, and families, and joy all around. 

and the kids were so proud.

but none was so proud as alex. 

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