The index finger on my left hand is really swollen, with a damaged tendon. This is on top of the damage I sustained several years ago.

After three studio session days and a full evening schedule, I could not stand stretching the finger at all.

I had some jobs that I really needed to play, but left-handed walking bass on keys, bass on an upright and any complicated guitar work was out of the question.

Even though I rarely use an arranger for live play, I am able to hold block chords with my left hand and access the automatic bass function. My great clients; even those who hire me to play dinner music on nylon string guitar, have been understanding.

It's not ideal, but I have been able to work the jobs I can't ignore, and keep my finger immobilized the rest of the time.

I have an appointment with a hand specialist next week. Hopefully, I'll heal enough to get back to my regular routine.

Really haven't changed my opinion about how I want to work and with what music equipment, but arrangers are sure handy now!


Russ

Really sorry to hear that, Russ. Any idea what caused it? You seemed to imply that it's not related to the earlier damage you sustained. In any case, tendon damage sounds serious. Here's hoping the doctor will have some encouraging news.

chas

Haven't seen the specialist, yet, Chas, but I've abused the tendons in my left (guitar/bass) hand for years. Working around the injury from several years ago hasn't helped.

The lady surgeon is one of the best...on the team that recently transplanted a hand in Louisville, Ky.

I've had what I thought were insurmountable injuries before...I'm keeping a positive attitude on this one. Haven't really given it a chance to rest as I should have.


Thanks,


Russ

God bless Arranger kbs.....get well Russ

Research the turmeric pills I used and have recommended to Scott, Russ. They can't do any HARM, and they were amazingly effective on my trigger thumb (which is really just an inflamed tendon).

Worth a try, I think.

Want me to come play your jobs while you rest? Make me an offer!
I'll learn them Yankees that there is music besides Jazz!

Get well soon, my friend.
DonM

Kind of funny, guys. Don thinks I'm a Yankee...in KENTUCKY!

Other members...the ones in NYC and New England...comment about my southern accent.

We're a little of both here, I guess.


Thanks for the support. I had 17 hours of studio time on guitar doing Fried Chicken commercials Saturday and Sunday of all things. That's what did the finger in, I believe.

R.

Is there snow up there in the North yet Russ?
DonM

Just the "snow" job I've been pulling over on my tone def clients for way longer than I care to admit!


Russ

Russ........

if I ever get to KY I'll fill in with ya on that Epiphone EJ160E John Lennon Acoustic and you can trickle the ivories & we'll trade fours....I got the vocals too....

Donny, that John Lennon guitar is stored with your name on it. I'll send you a photo. It doesn't have a mark on it.

R.

I love you man!!!!!

Hey Russ, does that Midjay have my name on it....after all...I luv ya too..

Frank, I've decided to will a few instruments to friends...stringed instruments, not keys, pa's sound modules, etc. I've already distributed a few to working musicians; the rest will be sent when I "kick the bucket".

Guitars are so important to me that it's a BIG DEAL to know that friends are going to be playing some of them some day.

Other than one neat old Fender amp (an 80's hand-wired Super Champ) going to one of my all-time favorites here, I'm not including any electrical equipment.

That stuff will be auctioned off and the proceeds donated to the Habitat project in New Orleans.


Be well,


Russ

Russ, I am just pulling your chain.... ..besides I rather have the Midjay plus..