[Dixielandjazz] Update on drummer Hal Smith

[Norman Vickers]

To:  DJML & Musicians and Jazzfans list

From;  Norman Vickers, Jazz Society of Pensacola

 

Dear listmates.  Many of you know drummer Hal Smith.  He's a native
Californian.  Has spent a number of years in New Orleans and then  for at
least a decade was associate director of the Jazz Society in San
Diego-America's Finest City Dixieland Jazz Society.  Last year he took a
position with Jim Cullum Band in San Antonio.   He has written numerous
historical notes for the "Jazz Rambler," newsletter of the AFCDJS  in San
Diego.

 

He sends this update.  I asked if I could post for his friends on both
lists.  So, with Hal's kind permission, here is latest update on him and his
career.  We all wish him well.  If you wish, drop him a note at his
e-address below.

 

fnv

 

From: Hal Smith [mailto:hws08 at live.com] 
Sent: Monday, February 21, 2011 12:36 AM



 

 

Just so you're up-to-date on my situation: I'm leaving the Jim Cullum Jazz
Band.  Feb. 26 is my last night with them.  I have been playing with severe
shoulder pain (result of a torn rotator cuff that was never repaired) and
have also developed "bad" carpal tunnel syndrome.  Both doctors I consulted
recommended surgery and REST.  

 

I am heading back to San Diego on Feb. 28.  Will have the carpal tunnel
procedure first, with its short recovery time.  After that, I have gigs
booked in April and May.  Following the last gig in May, i will have surgery
to repair the torn rotator cuff.  I expect to be playing again by the fall.

 

Later this year, my wife and I plan to relocate to Arkansas (where her
family lives).  I will concentrate on playing weekend festivals, mini-tours,
concerts, recording sessions, etc.--but no more steady, five-night-a-week
gigs!

 

Looks like I will keep writing for the Jazz Rambler, at least for the
immediate future.  Haven't thought of my next historical subject yet, but I
have a long drive coming up and maybe that will serve to give me some
ideas...

 

Best,

Hal

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