The Time We Train Wrecked “In the Mood” at a WWII Tribute Concert

by Drew Holmes

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We were nearing the end of our second set, and the crowd at the Senior Center was smiling, dancing, and all-around enjoying themselves. I was sitting 3rd trumpet as usual in the Just for Kicks big band and we were playing a WWII themed show, complete with a trio singing Andrews Sisters favorites. There was even a special presentation by Joanna Hoppes, granddaughter of General Jimmy Doolittle, on the topic of Doolittle’s Raid.

“In the Mood!” called Todd, our director, for the last tune before break.

Everything went great. The band was blending, the tempos were up. The attendees, some who had been young men and women during the war, were delighted at our performance. I saw from the stage several people revisiting fond memories of days gone by.

Then it happened.

We have all heard In the Mood countless times. So many it is easy to be lulled into a false sense of security that we know better. The ending is deceptive, with its various repeats and decreasing volume.

Some of the band members played what they remembered, and the rest played what was written. A train wreck ensued, and Todd had to stand up, give a count, and…