At 50 I played racket ball with the twenty-years-olds in my band – it was the first time I felt myself aging, and I was going to stay ahead of it. From age sixty to seventy-five I added a Yamaha keyboard --- played parties, weddings, and slowed down gradually.

I played my first NH job when I turned 80. I did my best to keep my energy and drive going, but it was coming. A musician must excite the people he is playing for, and my energy level and drive was slowly leaving.

Played my last job when I reached eighty-four. For the next two years I turned to buying and programing the new keyboards I bought, I thought I would still be able to gig. Part of my nature is to accept, move on and stay positive. I played professionally for over sixty years, I was blessed by my music career, but it was time to move on. I now play my guitar and keyboard for enjoyment. I am selling a Pa4x or a S975, either one makes no difference, just trying to clean house.

Being age eighty-seven places me in a special position in my church. I get invited to speak and share with groups, and get to mentor those who are doing well. In this I’m still important and needed, and that makes me feel good. I guess I am still performing, but to a different audience.
I’ve had a great life filled with music and good friends. I reach eighty-seven this past September, I have been blessed.
John C.