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[nycbone]

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[bort]

While chatting at a recent TubaChristmas, I learned that the accommodations at Rockefeller Center have changed since I last played (ca. 1999). I hear that the rehearsal area has been very crowded (sardine-like). Is this still the case? Last time I played, we rehearsed in a parking garage with adequate space. Are there adequate/clean bathroom facilities? Is there a place for musicians to leave gig bags? Is it safe? Just curious. I live locally, so getting there is very easy - but if the on-site PITA factor is high, I might skip it.

Thanks,

nycbone

I think I last played here in 2009 or 2010, and the rehearsal was in the parking garage. Pretty large space, but a TON of people so it felt pretty crowded. There are bathrooms are in the concourse of Rock Center, so the lines are long and cleanliness is just "ok" (by NY standards, at least). Depending on how much time you have, going across the street to Saks 5th Ave is a much better public restroom. Takes a few mins round trip, but maybe before/after the show it'd work, if someone can stay outside with your tuba.

I can't remember much about the gig bag situation, but I think you can leave it in the garage at your own risk and get it afterwards (that is, empty it before you go, or someone there may empty it for you). Again, there are just so many people, that it's impossible that you're the only person in that situation. Just go with the flow, it's not that bad.

To me, the worst part is always the huge number of obnoxious HS kids that bang into my stuff with their stuff, and talk/screw around too loudly. But then again, I have to be patient with that too, that used to be me. (My most memorable TubaChristmas ever [not in NYC], I was screwing around during the rehearsal, then played when I shouldn't have, then Harvey cut off the entire rehearsal group, singled me out, and told me to "pay attention, dammit!" )

I won't be there this year, I'll be at a NY Phil Brass Quintet concert instead. Have fun if you go!

[nycbone]

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[bort]

Thanks!

Funny... I'm also thinking about going to see/hear Holiday Brass instead. Hmm...

Its a fun show, my wife has gotten me tix for it the last 3 years (so I've missed the last 3 TCs).