For those of you who missed it, the Grand Parade on Saturday in honor of the 175th Anniversary of the Village of Geneseo was quite an event. For many, no doubt, the highlight of the day was the first-ever appearance of the Geneseo Rotary Club’s Marching Band under the able leadership of past-President Kurt Fletcher and featuring the fabulous drum team of Chris Rider and Corrin Strong!
Although I have much percussion experience, this was my first appearance in a marching band and I had a ball! Like many Rotarians, I also had a kazoo in my mouth to hum along to the familiar (to Rotarians) tune of “Mighty Union.” I hope this will dispel the rumors that I can’t walk and chew gum at the same time. (See photo below).
My instrument was actually the bass drum from my 1960s era Rogers Drum set, which is stored for safekeeping in my basement. I purchased the kit in 1967 from Manny’s Music in New York City, the world-famous store where The Beatles, Hendrix and The Who also bought their gear.
At that time I was a fledging drummer in the seminal garage band The Crimson Floogle. I played in a number of rock and roll bands in Pennsylvania before moving to Geneseo in 1975. Since then my drums have been somewhat neglected, but I’m sure my performance Saturday put me on the musical map, and I expect the offers to play with local bands will come rolling in!
On a more serious note, I also attended the ceremonies at the Geneseo Armory Saturday morning sending off our local National Guard company for a 12 month tour of duty in Afghanistan. Of course we all hope for a safe return next year and are very grateful for their service.
Posted by corrinstrong 
