I was fortunate enough to be pulled [into the Friends of Jazz] when I was in high school. I had a friend and bandmate that played bass in the Youth Band. I’m a drummer and had considered the possibility of auditioning to become a member, but there was already someone in that position and it didn’t look like any opportunity would be opening up. 

One Saturday, out of the blue, the phone rings. Now I was in high school at the time, and obviously living at home with my parents, but for some reason I happened to answer the phone. “Hello?” I said.  On the other end, I heard an unfamiliar voice say, “Hello, can I speak to Michael Culp?”.  “Yes, this is he.”, I answered.  He went on to say, “My name is Ron Waters. I’m the director of the Central PA Friends of Jazz Youth Band and your friend says you can help me out.”.  And at that moment, you could have heard a pin drop in another country. “We’ve got a show, and our drummer can’t make it. Do you think you could play?”. 

I had seen this group perform once or twice. Just a great group of serious musicians playing really great and complex music. Of course I said yes.  At that point I was informed that the show was in three hours; basically meaning that I had no time to prepare for an ensemble that I had never played with before. I got there, he gave me the drum charts, and away we went! It was terrifying and extremely exciting at the same time. 

The Youth Band is excellent way for young enthusiasts to explore their love for music, and love for jazz, while learning to be a professional.  And the memories, that was over 20 years ago, and I still remember it like it was yesterday! 

Thanks for calling ME that day Mr. Waters!

-Michael Culp

Who knew this high school senior jazz saxophone player who performed on the CPFJ Stage with the Central Dauphin HS Jazz Ensemble at ArtsFest in 2014 would one day be Executive Director of CPFJ? That's my favorite CPFJ memory!

-Kathy Herring