Al's Pals Band

Al Perna

The Birth of Al’s Pals cont’d

Live Band

Part 4: Growth and Evolution

The Steep Learning Curve

The first couple of months were a whirlwind. We played three days a week from 9 am to 11 am, with 14 different sets of 25 songs each. That’s a lot of music to organize and learn! But I loved the challenge. My reading skills improved dramatically, and my transposition skills got a workout too. But not for the reason you might think.

George: The Sax Virtuoso

George, our brilliant sax player, was a marvel. He played every song from memory, never reading a note. He could play any song in any key flawlessly. What we didn’t know was that George was in the early stages of dementia. His short-term memory was failing, but his long-term memory was sharp as ever. He could play any song in any key, but he couldn’t remember which song he was playing at the moment.

The Musical Jigsaw Puzzle

We’d start a song, get through the A section, and then George would play the bridge from a completely different song without realizing it. The amazing part? He’d transpose the bridge into the key of the current song without even knowing he was doing it. This meant I had to quickly recognize the switch and mentally transpose my part to match him. It was a fantastic mental challenge and helped me grow as a musician.

A Bittersweet Farewell

Sadly, George’s condition worsened, and he eventually couldn’t play anymore. I miss playing with him and am grateful for the unintentional challenges he gave me. They made me a better player and taught me a lot about adaptability and resilience.

Sure, here’s a revised version of your text with a friendly, humorous, and engaging tone:

Jaybird: The Lawrence Welk of Vero Beach

Meeting Jaybird

One day during my first month, Chuck asked, “Have you met Jaybird yet?”

“Who?” I replied, puzzled.

“Jaybird. Jay Miller,” Chuck clarified.

“No, not yet,” I said.

“Oh, just you wait. He’s the Lawrence Welk of Vero Beach,” Chuck added with a grin.

The First Encounter

About a week later, Jay Miller made his grand entrance to play the drums with us. From a distance, I noticed his outfit—a riot of colors and patterns that looked like he got dressed in the dark. None of it matched, but it was certainly memorable.

Jaybird wasted no time. He walked straight up to me, introduced himself, and asked for my name.

“Name a bird, any bird,” he said.

“What?” I asked, a bit confused.

“Name a bird, any bird,” he repeated.

I don’t remember which bird I named, but he responded with a cheerful, “Tweet. Tweet. I’m Jaybird.”

The Promoter Extraordinaire

Jaybird was a very personable character. Over time, I came to think of him as more promoter than musician. It took just a couple of weeks before he had me playing gigs with him, entertaining residents of the local assisted living facilities.

The New Year’s Eve Marathon

After about a month, he asked me if I was booked for New Year’s Eve. I told him that I was free.

Jaybird: “That’s good because we have four gigs to play.”

I thought he was going to have four bands playing in different locations and asked him which one he wanted me to play.

Jaybird: “All four.”

Me: “All four? How are we going to do that?”

He went on to explain that we were going to play three assisted living facilities; two in the afternoon and one in the evening. The last event was at a ballroom dance studio at 11:00 pm until just after midnight.

I love playing, but setting up and breaking down four times in 12 hours would be a bit much. I wondered how Jaybird was going to handle it. None of us was young, but he was the oldest of the bunch. It turned out that I didn’t need to be concerned.

The New Year’s Eve Marathon Continues…

When I got to the first gig at noon, Jaybird was already there. His drums were set up, and he was ready to go. We played the gig, packed up our equipment, and headed to the second gig.

Jaybird was already there. His drums were set up. But, it was a second drum set. Pretty sly old guy. We played that gig, packed up our equipment, and went to the third gig. Jaybird was already there and had a third drum set all ready to go.

If you think the same thing happened at the fourth gig, you would be correct. He booked four gigs and went around the day before, setting up four different drum sets. I’d never seen anything like it.

I came to think of Jaybird as more of a P.T. Barnum than Lawrence Welk.

To be continued.

The Birth of Al’s Pals cont’d

Live Band

Part 3. Two Problems Before the First Gig

The Amplifier Dilemma

I had two problems to solve before our first gig:

  • I needed an amplifier.
  • I needed to put together the lead sheets for the set list Chuck had given me.

The amplifier issue was a bit of a pickle. My trusty amp was sitting in storage in Denver, far from reach. I didn’t want to splurge on a new one, so I headed to the local music store and grabbed a small, budget-friendly student model. I thought it would be a temporary fix, but that “temporary” fix ended up lasting nine months! Talk about getting more than you bargained for.

The Lead Sheets Saga

The second problem was the lead sheets. Not exactly rocket science, but definitely a time-consuming task. I had to sift through all my electronic fake books to find the songs. Some versions were better than others, so I spent ages picking the right ones. It was like searching for hidden gems in a sea of mediocrity.

The First Gig

Meeting the Band

I arrived at the Community Center for our first gig, armed with my guitar, a newly acquired amplifier, and a folder of lead sheets.

Chuck, our trombone-playing leader, was the most easygoing band leader I’d ever met. He had a signature sign-off at the end of each gig: “Who has more fun than people?”

Herb, the trumpet player, had a wonderful tone and was a strong player. He carried the melody effortlessly, making playing with him a real pleasure.

Tony played bass. He was a low-key guy with a fantastic sense of humor. Playing with him was a joy because he followed me closely, and we learned a lot from each other.

George was on tenor sax. He knew his instrument inside and out and had such a vast knowledge of songs that he didn’t need sheet music for any of them.

John played the second tenor sax. A career Marine who took up the sax upon retirement, his superpower was his creative use of the F-bomb. He could drop it as a verb, noun, pronoun, adjective, and adverb—all in the same paragraph!

The Band’s First Impression

That was the band for this gig. I didn’t know much about these guys initially because they kept their distance. They looked at me as if to say, “Who is this guy, and what does he think he’s doing here?” That would all change in a few minutes. 

Canadian Sunset: The Moment I Joined the Band

Finding My Groove

We kicked off with the first couple of songs. I kept a low profile, listening to the others and figuring out who was who. I didn’t want to disrupt the flow while I was still getting my bearings. No one seemed to notice me, and that was just fine.

The Turning Point

Then we started playing “Canadian Sunset.” There’s a signature phrase in the original recording that none of the instruments were playing. I listened through the first chorus, waiting to see if someone would pick it up. Nothing. As the second chorus began, I decided to go for it.

When I played that phrase, everyone turned around and looked at me. I saw their expressions and wondered what they were thinking. But as I continued, I saw nods of approval. They realized I could play my instrument and knew what I was doing.

Nancy’s Perspective

Nancy was in the audience and saw their reaction. She told me about it later and asked what had happened. I explained it to her.

Nancy: “It seemed like they didn’t want to know you until that happened. Then, they accepted you.”

Breaking the Ice

I wasn’t sure what was going on when I first arrived. But with that song, everything changed. The ice was broken, and I knew I was going to fit in.

Key Moments:

  • Laying Low: Observing and understanding the group dynamics.
  • Taking a Chance: Playing the signature phrase in “Canadian Sunset.”
  • Gaining Approval: Seeing the band’s positive reaction.
  • Nancy’s Insight: Realizing the moment of acceptance.

And that’s how I found my place in the band, one note at a time. 🎶

Marine Master Sergeant John: The Unexpected Bandmate

The Beginning of a Beautiful Friendship

I didn’t know it at the time, but years later, I would come to understand the full story. Over time, John and I developed a pretty solid relationship. His background was military, mine was law enforcement. He’d give me crap, and I’d give it right back. He didn’t intimidate me, and he seemed to respect that I stood my ground.

The Guitar Revelation

One day, John shared a story with me that I’ll never forget:

John: “When you first started here and Chuck told me you played guitar, I thought, ‘Guitar? What the f… are we gonna do with a guitar? That f…ing guy’s just gonna come in here and f… things up. We don’t need a f…ing guitar. Tell him to go the f… home.’”

Me: “Really, John? I had no idea you felt that way.”

John: “Damn right I did. Then, after a while, I found out you could really play. I told Chuck, ‘I’m glad you got that f…ing guitar because that f…ing guy can really play!’”

Me: “Thanks, John. I really appreciate you saying that.”

Building the Band

  • Mutual Respect: Our backgrounds helped us understand each other.
  • Stand Ground: Neither of us backed down, which built mutual respect.
  • Musical Surprise: John’s initial skepticism turned into genuine appreciation.

The Takeaway

John’s story is a reminder that first impressions aren’t always accurate. Sometimes, the very thing you think will mess things up can turn out to be the best addition to the team. And in our case, it was a guitar and a bit of mutual respect that started it all.

To be continued…

The Birth of Al’s Pals cont’d

Live Band

Part 2: The First Meeting

Stepping into the Dance

Nancy and I strolled into the Vero Beach Community Center, ready to meet the band leader. The place was pretty empty with only about six couples dancing and a few folks lounging at tables. Near the door, a woman was collecting the entrance fee while the band played on stage.

Meeting Agnes

The woman at the door was Agnes, the band leader’s wife. On stage, the band featured a Trombone, Saxophone, Trumpet, Bass, and Drums. No Guitar. That was a plus.

We introduced ourselves to Agnes. She mentioned the $2 per person entrance fee, and we paid it without a second thought. Seriously, where else can you have fun for just $2 each?

The Waiting Game

I told Agnes I was interested in joining the band. She said I’d have to wait for the break to talk to her husband, Chuck. So, we stepped aside and enjoyed the music.

The band’s repertoire was all old standards and pop tunes from my parents’ generation. Think the Great American Songbook. No problem for me—I’d played these tunes in a “Society Band” back in high school and college. I could tell the band needed some rhythm section reinforcement, and I thought I’d be a good fit. At 63, I was closer in age to Chuck and the band members than to my own parents. I’d played with older musicians before, but I wasn’t sure how this band would feel about me.

The Break

Soon, the band took a break. Agnes told Chuck I wanted to talk to him about playing. He walked over, introduced himself, and started the conversation.

Chuck: “What instrument do you play?”

Me: “Guitar.”

Chuck: “Can you read music?”

Me: “Yes.”

Chuck: “You can read music? You play guitar and you can read music?”

Me: “Yes.”

Chuck: “Can you play these songs?”

Me: “Yes.”

Chuck: “I want to be sure I understand this. You play guitar? You can read music? You can play these tunes, is that correct?”

Me: “Yes.”

Chuck: “I want to be sure I understand this. You play guitar? You can read music? You can play these tunes, is that correct?”

Me: “Yes.”

Chuck: “Ok. You can come in next Tuesday and play with us. The only problem is we don’t have guitar music for you.”

Me: “Do you have a set list with the names of the tunes and the keys?”

Chuck: “Yes.”

Me: “That’s all I need.”

Chuck: “Ok, let me see if I can make a copy for you.”

Me: “Don’t worry about it, I’ll just scan it with my phone.”

Chuck: “You can do that?”

Me: “Yes. No problem. We’ll see you on Tuesday.”

The Aftermath

Nancy and I walked out to our car, ready to head to the grocery store. She wanted to know what I thought and if there would be any problems. I thought I could handle the music just fine.

Me: “There’s just one problem.”

Nancy: “What’s that?”

Me: “Well, I’m lucky that I have my guitar with me instead of in storage since we had a recording session the night before we left. However, I don’t have an amplifier. I need to get an amplifier before next Tuesday.”

Nancy: “Oh.”

To be continued…

The Birth of Al’s Pals Band

Live Band


Many have asked how our band came to be. Reflecting on it, I see it’s less a beginning and more an evolution spanning nine years. So, instead of one long tale, I’ll share our journey in a series of shorter posts. Here we stand, at the start of our story.

Part 1. The Spark that Started it All

How It All Began

My wife, Nancy, and I retired to Vero Beach in August 2015. We didn’t know a soul in town. We hadn’t even found a place to live yet. We just knew it was going to be Vero Beach.

We sold our home in Littleton, Colorado, put all our possessions in storage, and hit the road. I had a guitar with me purely by chance. The guitar quintet I played with wanted one last recording session the night before I moved, so I kept one guitar out of storage. How fortuitous that ended up being!

The Road Trip Adventure

We hit the road with stops in:

  • Carlsbad Caverns, New Mexico
  • Austin, Texas
  • New Orleans, Louisiana
  • And finally, Vero Beach

We found a hotel and settled in to begin our new life.

House Hunting: Plan A and Plan B

Plan A: Check out the current houses on the market.
Plan B: Build a new house if Plan A didn’t work out.

Well, Plan A didn’t work out, so we went with Plan B. We contracted with a builder and found a condo on the beach to rent while the house was being built. We left everything in storage and moved into the condo with just the possessions we had in the car.

Exploring Florida

Nancy and I had lived in Orlando when we were first married. In the nine years we lived there, we had never visited the Florida Keys. I told her the first thing I wanted to do was take a trip to the Keys. So, we did just that.

Condo Life on Hutchinson Island

We returned to the condo about a week later. The complex was located on Hutchinson Island, just into Saint Lucie County. That’s where the high-rise buildings begin. It was September, and the complex was vacant. The snowbirds hadn’t started to return yet.

We felt like we were living in a ghost town. Big buildings and a pool all to ourselves. We started a new daily routine:

  • A walk on the beach
  • A dip in the pool
  • Lunch
  • A trip to the grocery store to get something for dinner

Meeting Wayne and Gayle

A few days into our new life, we encountered a couple at the pool. It felt like one of those old movies where people are marooned on an island and then discover other inhabitants.

Their names were Wayne and Gayle, and they were very friendly. We exchanged pleasantries and started to learn about each other’s backgrounds. While I can’t remember most of the details, one significant part of the conversation stood out.

Wayne: “What hobbies do you have?”
Me: (thinking about an answer as I hadn’t often been asked about hobbies)

Wayne, not waiting for an answer, said: “We ballroom dance. Do you dance?”

Me: “No, I don’t dance.”
Wayne: “You don’t dance? Why not?”
Me: “I never learned how to dance.”
Wayne: “What? Why not?”
Me: “I never learned to dance because I always played in the band.”
Wayne: “What do you play?”
Me: “Guitar.”
Wayne: “You need to go down to the Community Center in Vero Beach. There’s a band there that plays for our dance. You need to meet with the leader. We need more musicians.”

I got the information from Wayne and decided to check it out.

The Community Center Adventure

I told Nancy that I wanted to go down and check it out. She said she wanted to go with me. The next morning, I asked her if she was ready to go:

Nancy: “You said it was from 9 to 11.”
Me: “Yes, 9 to 11 in the morning.”
Nancy: “In the morning? Who dances in the morning?”
Me: “Apparently retired folks.”

To Be Continued…

The Joy of Dancing: A Musician’s Perspective on the Social Benefits for Seniors

Dancing to Live Music

As a musician, I’ve spent countless nights playing for crowds of all ages. For the past nine years I have been playing at the Vero Beach Community Center and found that there’s something uniquely heartwarming about watching senior citizens dance to live music. It’s a scene that never fails to bring a smile to my face and a warmth to my heart. Let me take you on a journey through the social benefits of dancing for seniors, seen through the eyes of a musician.

The Dance Floor: A Social Hub

The dance floor is a magical place. It’s where strangers become friends, and friends become family. For seniors, it’s a lifeline to social interaction. I’ve seen it time and again: a shy newcomer steps onto the floor, hesitant at first, but soon swept up in the rhythm and camaraderie.

  • Meeting New People: Dancing is a fantastic way for seniors to meet new people. Whether it’s a weekly dance class or a community event, the shared activity fosters a sense of community and belonging. I’ve watched as regulars welcome newcomers with open arms, creating an inclusive environment where everyone feels at home.
  • Strengthening Bonds: Dancing also strengthens existing relationships. Couples who’ve been together for decades find a renewed sense of connection on the dance floor. Friends laugh and cheer each other on, creating memories that last a lifetime. It’s a beautiful thing to witness.

The Mood Boost: Dancing Away the Blues

There’s a certain magic in the way music and movement can lift the spirits. As a musician, I see it every time I play. The moment the first notes fill the air, faces light up, and worries melt away.

  • Endorphin Rush: Dancing releases endorphins, the body’s natural mood enhancers. I’ve seen seniors come in looking tired and leave with a spring in their step and a smile on their face. It’s like watching a transformation happen right before your eyes.
  • Stress Relief: The joy and fun associated with dancing are powerful stress relievers. I’ve had seniors tell me that dancing is their escape from the daily grind, a chance to let loose and forget their troubles. And who can blame them? There’s something incredibly freeing about moving to the music.

The Mental Workout: Keeping the Mind Sharp

Dancing isn’t just good for the body; it’s great for the mind too. Learning new dance steps and routines stimulates cognitive functions, enhancing memory and mental agility.

  • Mental Engagement: I’ve seen seniors challenge themselves with complex dance routines, and the concentration and focus required are impressive. It’s like a mental workout that keeps the brain sharp and active.
  • Memory Boost: Remembering dance steps and sequences is a fantastic way to boost memory. I’ve watched seniors practice and perfect their moves, and the sense of accomplishment they feel is palpable. It’s a reminder that you’re never too old to learn something new.

The Physical Benefits: Moving to the Beat

While dancing is primarily a social activity, it also offers numerous physical benefits. Improved balance, coordination, and cardiovascular health are just a few of the advantages that come with regular dancing.

  • Balance and Coordination: I’ve seen seniors who were initially unsteady on their feet gain confidence and stability through dancing. It’s a gradual process, but the results are undeniable. They move with more grace and assurance, both on and off the dance floor.
  • Cardiovascular Health: Dancing is a great way to get the heart pumping. I’ve watched seniors dance for hours, and the physical exertion is evident. But so is the joy and satisfaction they feel. It’s a fun and effective way to stay active and healthy.

Personal Anecdotes: Stories from the Dance Floor

Let me share a few personal anecdotes that highlight the social benefits of dancing for seniors.

  • The Shy Newcomer: There was a lady who started coming to our weekly dance. She was alone and reserved. Our group has a number of wonderful gentlemen who make certain to dance with all of the single ladies. One of those gentlemen got up and asked her to dance. The transformation happened over the course of a few weeks and she turned into one of the most enthusiastic dancers on the floor. It was a joy to watch.
  • The Long-Time Couple: There was a couple who had been married for over 50 years. They came to every dance, and their love for each other was evident in every step they took. Watching them move in harmony, with smiles on their faces was a testament to the power of dancing. Unfortunately, they are no longer with us but their memory will be with me for as long as I live. 
  • The Group of Friends: There are several groups of friends who have been coming to our dance. They laugh, joke, and cheer each other on. Their camaraderie is infectious, and they make everyone around them feel welcome. They’ve created a little dance family, and it’s a beautiful thing to see.

Conclusion: The Power of Dance

In conclusion, dancing to live music offers a wealth of social benefits for senior citizens. It provides opportunities for social interaction, boosts mood and mental health, stimulates cognitive functions, and offers physical benefits. As a musician, I’ve had the privilege of witnessing these benefits firsthand. The joy, laughter, and connections formed on the dance floor are truly heartwarming. So, if you’re a senior looking to enhance your social life, put on your dancing shoes and join the fun. You won’t regret it.

And remember, as Hemingway might say, “Dance like no one’s watching, but know that everyone is smiling.”

The Joy of Dancing: Health Benefits for Senior Citizens

Live Band

As a musician, I’ve had the pleasure of watching countless seniors take to the dance floor with enthusiasm and joy. There’s something truly magical about seeing people of all ages, especially seniors, moving to the rhythm and enjoying themselves. Over the years, I’ve noticed not just the smiles and laughter, but also the incredible health benefits that dancing brings to our senior friends. Let’s dive into the many ways dancing can enhance the lives of senior citizens.

Physical Health Benefits

Improved Cardiovascular Health

One of the most noticeable benefits of dancing is its positive impact on cardiovascular health. Dancing is a fantastic way to get the heart pumping without feeling like a chore. Whether it’s a lively salsa, a graceful waltz, or a fun line dance, each style offers a great cardio workout.

  • Heart Health: Regular dancing helps lower blood pressure and improve heart function.
  • Variety of Styles: Different dance styles, from ballroom to swing, provide varied intensity levels to suit everyone’s fitness level.

Enhanced Flexibility and Balance

As we age, maintaining flexibility and balance becomes crucial to prevent falls and injuries. Dancing is an excellent way to keep the body limber and improve coordination.

  • Stretching: Many dance routines incorporate stretching movements that enhance flexibility.
  • Balance: The dynamic movements in dance help improve balance and stability, reducing the risk of falls.

Strength and Endurance

Dancing isn’t just about moving gracefully; it’s also a great way to build strength and endurance. The repetitive movements and weight-bearing aspects of dance help in muscle strengthening.

  • Muscle Strength: Regular dancing helps tone muscles, especially in the legs and core.
  • Stamina: Dancing increases stamina, allowing seniors to stay active for longer periods.

Mental Health Benefits

Cognitive Function

Keeping the mind sharp is just as important as physical health, and dancing offers a fun way to do just that. Learning new dance steps and routines challenges the brain and improves cognitive function.

  • Memory: Remembering dance steps and sequences enhances memory.
  • Problem-Solving: Navigating the dance floor and coordinating with a partner boosts problem-solving skills.

Stress Relief and Mood Enhancement

Dancing is a natural mood booster. The combination of music, movement, and social interaction creates a powerful antidote to stress and anxiety.

  • Endorphins: Dancing releases endorphins, the body’s natural feel-good chemicals.
  • Relaxation: The rhythmic movements and music help in relaxation and reducing stress levels.

Social Benefits

Building Connections

One of the most beautiful aspects of dancing is its ability to bring people together. Dancing fosters social connections and helps seniors make new friends and strengthen existing relationships.

  • Social Interaction: Dance events provide opportunities to meet new people and socialize.
  • Shared Activity: Dancing with a partner or in a group creates a sense of camaraderie and shared enjoyment.

Community Engagement

Participating in dance events and local gatherings helps seniors stay engaged with their community. This sense of belonging is vital for emotional well-being.

  • Local Events: Many communities host dance nights, providing a fun way for seniors to stay active and involved.
  • Support System: Being part of a dance community offers emotional support and a sense of belonging.

Emotional Benefits

Boosting Self-Confidence

Dancing can significantly boost self-esteem and confidence. The sense of achievement from learning new steps and performing them well is incredibly empowering.

  • Achievement: Mastering a dance routine gives a sense of accomplishment.
  • Confidence: Performing in front of others, even in a casual setting, builds confidence.

Joy and Fulfillment

Above all, dancing brings joy and fulfillment. The sheer pleasure of moving to music and expressing oneself through dance is unmatched.

  • Happiness: Dancing is a joyful activity that brings smiles and laughter.
  • Positive Experiences: Many seniors share stories of how dancing has positively impacted their lives, making them feel happier and more fulfilled.

Conclusion

As a musician , I’ve seen firsthand the transformative power of dance. It’s more than just a fun activity; it’s a pathway to better health, stronger social connections, and a happier life. I encourage all seniors to join us on the dance floor and experience the myriad benefits of dancing. Whether you’re a seasoned dancer or a beginner, there’s a place for you in our vibrant dance community. So put on your dancing shoes and let’s create some wonderful memories together! 🎶💃🕺