Quel Surpris!

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Habs Tam-Tam!

Definitely a ‘quel surpris’ kind of moment here, as I inadvertantly stumbled upon this enthusiastic bongo band up on the upper terrace (how do you say ‘nose-bleed section’ en francais?!) during the second intermission of a recent Habs game, thereby completing my religious experience at the Bell Centre, la Centre Bell in Montreal.

Despite the Habs losing a squeaker that night – dommage, ca – this musical epiphany more than made up for the unfortunate loss. With the ravages of Old Man Winter blowing in rather unexpectedly the next day while recording in Old Montreal, the energy of these bongo players sustained me and represents a defining moment in my search for the meaning of music!

Oh well, I guess I won’t win many Toronto fans with this particular post…ca c’est dommage aussi, what can I say? I’ll take the Canadiens joi de vivre and passionate approach to Canada’s national game over the blue collar work ethic the Maple Leafs any day of the week.

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Published:: 12.07.08 / 11pm

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With a love of teaching and chamber music, Toronto-based flutist JAMIE THOMPSON has performed as both soloist and chamber musician in Canada and the United States, and continues to be active as aFreelance Musician, Teacher, Adjudicator and Clinician, specializing in community outreach, multi-media events and creative, performance-preparation workshops and coaching sessions.

Jamie has been on the Flute Faculty of the RCM since 1988. In addition to teaching and coaching, he has served as Chair, Woodwind Brass and Percussion Department, and has served on numerous committees, including The Community School Divisional Committee, Academic Council and the Council of Examiners. In addition Jamie has presented workshops on Examination and Performance Preparation, co-ordinated the RCM Professional Development Lecture Series, and has co-chaired the Faculty Advisory Committee for the RCM’s new TELUS Performance and Learning Centre, scheduled to open in 2008.

Pierre-Luc 12.08.08 / 10am

The nose-bleed section doesn’t have a direct translation word for word. It can be called by different name. In a theater, we would say that people sitting on the second floor are in the balcony.

Jamie 12.08.08 / 3pm

Thanks P-L,
There must be some nickname in french for the cheapseats? As I’m sure you’d agree, for some it is the only place to be, a point of pride – even a badge of honour – like sitting at the back of the class in school: the last row is where the party’s at!!
J

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Quel Surpris!

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