Almost everyone wanted the saxophone in Elementary School Band.
I wanted the saxophone.
First preference was given to children with some level of natural music ability. After they picked their instruments, it was narrowed down to those who are quick learners. Finally, it was down to the remaining few kids.
No dramatic twist here. I was not in the first group of kids, nor was I in the second group of kids. The saxophone went quickly and dashed my dreams of saxophone fame.
I got my second choice; the trumpet.
It wasn't that the trumpet was a bad instrument. It was difficult and required discipline to hit certain notes. I had not taken any characteristic evaluations in that early stage of my life, but I knew even then that "disciplined" was not a word ever used to describe me.
