Made it through the 2008 Christmas concert series, but in late November I sustained a hearing injury that has thrown everything into question. I relied about 80% on one ear for all my hearing, and suddenly lost over half of that (effect of unexpected, nearby gunshot blast). Worse, I lost, at least for the time being, much of my ability to discern pitch accurately. So I had to drop out of band. There have been some improvements in the hearing, but the damage is permanent for the most part. It may be possible to rejoin the band next season. I'm still playing and practicing at home, to keep the embouchure and dexterity at the ready, should I find that I can play by relying on hearing aids, which I now need even for normal conversation.

A disappointing turn, after so much work, but I haven't given up.