My nephew Ale, who is 15, took up drumming a few years ago. But, unlike lots of boys, this wasn't just a fad or a hobby—he really took to it and kept at it. Last year, some of the teachers at his school (outside of London) formed a band, and they asked him to be their drummer, since they didn't have a drummer on faculty. At a school performance, Pete Townshend (who happens to be the dad of a student there), heard the band and afterward went up to tell Ale that he showed great promise and should keep on drumming! As if that weren't enough, he recently heard Ale play with his own (student) band and invited them to record a demo CD at his own recording studio! Which they did! Imagine that.
I love the Who. That is exciting news for your nephew. Some kids have the passion, and the talent. Others just have the passion.
Posted by: Margaret | April 16, 2006 at 10:52 PM
And others just have the drum set! ;-)
Posted by: Karen | April 17, 2006 at 07:50 AM
That is truly awesome! What a great experience for your nephew. (I'm assuming your nephew realizes who that "old fart" is?) :o)
Posted by: Tonya | April 17, 2006 at 12:46 PM
That? Is awesome. Pete was always a hero of mine growing up. What an opportunity!
Posted by: Chris | April 17, 2006 at 01:34 PM
You mean to tell me that I could have named one of my boys "Ale?" Dang. I hear that Townshend guy knows a thing or two about music.
Posted by: Mark | April 19, 2006 at 09:13 AM
His full name is Alessandro (his dad's from Rome), but his nickname has been anglicized from "Ah-lay" into "Alley."
Posted by: Karen | April 19, 2006 at 09:18 AM