The Observation Deck

The next two weeks will mark the introduction of two original compositions to honor Lakewood High School and Lakewood Catholic Academy.

Dad (Robert Rice- former Lakewood Schools music teacher) and I have completed these works, and they are to be introduced at the upcoming concerts for the two schools.

The Lakewood High School March will present at the school's concert during the evening of March 12th at the Civic. The Lakewood Catholic Academy March will debut the following week at their two concerts. (one during the school day, and the other on the 20th, in the evening)

Other musical works for concert band, completed and presented by Dad and I, have included "The Garfield March" for our new middle school, and an original march for the All-Ohio State Fair Band. Dad also wrote "The Harding March" years ago for the Lakewood school where he spent the bulk of his career.

For those fans of Lakewood's "fight song" and "alma mater", our new composition is not meant to replace those songs, but rather to add a full band march to the school's library.

Gary,

Weird. I haven't written any songs in awhile, so I decided, a couple weeks back to put something together for LHS. Must be GMT (Great Minds Think Alike).
Say hi to dad for me.

Mark Allan Crnolatas
In God We Trust

The process of creation is at once, a very fulfilling and yet, frustrating pastime.

Whether that creation would be a musical melody, an instrumental score, or a newspaper column, it all begins with a blank piece of paper (or screen) and (if you're fortunate) an idea of some sort... as to how to begin.

Then, after one begins the journey, the fun really starts- with bringing the creation to conception. All sorts of impediments continually pop up to frustrate the creative process...

...but the end result is worth it every time.

After Mom died nearly 5 years ago (and she and Dad were married nearly 60 years) I needed to get Dad REAL busy REAL quick, so we purchased a laptop computer and a music writing program.

Nowadays, although Dad is approaching 90 years young, I have trouble getting on either of the two computers, as he continues to learn, create, and grow as a human being, and is well on his way to taking over both machines.

Once in awhile, I do manage to get online....


We both thank God for the gifts of our knowledge and the ability to continue to create and serve the young people of Lakewood.

We are both pleased to see that you too are continuing to create and grow Mark. Our best always to your family!

I was at the Civic watching the concert (my kids are in Wind Ensemble) and heard Gary and his fathers new march. It's a great march. Nicely done.

Congratulations Gary and Mr. Rice.

Joe,

Thanks for the kind words and for that great shot!

Next week, we will unveil the new song for the Lakewood Catholic Academy.

Hopefully these songs will be enjoyed for years to come.

Gary