Bob Smith, who has known Sandy for many years, remarked, “I can’t recall a moment when Sandy ever upset me. In fact, I can’t think of a time he upset anyone… he truly is one of the great ones!”
Sandy grew up in a quaint town in Ontario, where he picked up the drums as part of a local pipe band that featured family members. Surrounded by the warmth of music at home, he became increasingly self-taught, exploring the musical landscape around him.
Bob Smith, one of Sandy’s long-time companions, stated, “I do not recall that Sandy ever made me mad in all these years. Actually, I do not recall that he ever made anyone mad… he’s still one of the good ones!”
During his childhood in a small Ontario town, Sandy learned to play drums while participating in a local pipe band with family members. Immersed in a musical environment at home, he became progressively self-educated in the music that inspired him.
One personal illustration of his generous spirit is something that will always stay with me.
We, the older crowd from the vibrant 60s, aimed to reunite the original band. Sadly, two founding members had passed on, yet we heard that our drummer was still around, although we couldn’t track him down.
Nevertheless, Bob, a genuinely kind individual, shared our unfortunate situation with Sandy. He mentioned, “I didn’t push Sandy to assist your Tempos. I merely explained your situation and provided him with your details… no obligation. The rest hinged on his unwillingness to turn down someone in need.”
For us, lacking a drummer meant no performance… plus, we had family and friends expecting to attend! Upon learning that this drummer wasn’t ordinary—due to his recognition as the Jazz Drummer of the Year at the Forest City London Music Awards—we were understandably intimidated.
But there was no need for concern. After just one rehearsal, it was clear that we were in skilled hands. This guy, a complete stranger to us, had the ability to “play anything!” His presence significantly enhanced our sound!
Over the years, I’ve continued to gain a deeper understanding of the intricacies of Jazz… particularly the emphasis on improvisation, as exemplified by
Nancy Wilson/Cannonball Adderley
Even today, he actively showcases an array of outstanding performers to the audience. For instance, he has hosted a jazz radio show on Fanshawe College in London.
Additionally, with the financial backing from the local musicians’ union, he curates, organizes, and performs in the long-standing ‘Jazz For the People’ concert series—offering free public shows (typically monthly) for roughly forty years now.
Some may argue that “good” people (kind, dependable) never triumph over “bad” people (self-centered, confrontational). However, credible scientific research indicates that both “bad” and “good” individuals tend to end up similarly in life. As a physician friend remarked just months before his cancer diagnosis, “Ultimately, it boils down to sheer luck.”
“A few years back, Bob inquired if Sandy had any regrets. Sandy replied, “Indeed, I have many, Smitty.” Bob speculated that these regrets likely pertained to actions he hadn’t taken or perhaps things he could have approached differently. I think we can all resonate with such feelings… as various psychologists affirm that the truly good individuals are already victorious.
So, a heartfelt thank you, Sandy, for ‘all that jazz’… and for infusing so much kindness into our lives. Without your generosity of spirit, I would feel eternally adrift.
Fred Parry / Bob Smith
Photo Credit
Image by flockine from Pixabay
Originally published at fredparry.ca
Guest Author Bio
Fred Parry
Fred Parry resides in Southern Ontario and possesses a profound love for people, as well as a collection of stories, music, wisdom, and grandchildren. His purpose in life? “I’m one of those individuals who believes that if my work benefits the greater good, it will endure; if not, it will fade away with me. I still maintain that belief.” Fred contributed ten years as a columnist for Metroland Media Group, a branch of the Torstar Corporation’s publishing empire.
His book, ‘The Music In Me’ (2013) is available through Friesen Press and also at Indigo / Chapters.
Blog / Website: www.fredparry.ca
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