pitzel's Blog

Dec 31

Sang the anthem last night at the Rose Garden Arena and wow, it was an amazing experience! If you're not a singer and you just sort of wonder how someone ends up singing the Star Spangled Banner in the middle of a crowded arena - read on - and for you singers -

The Trail Blazers hold anthem auditions every September - start checking the FAQ site (http://www.nba.com/blazers/news/faqs.html) in August. 

I not only consider it an honor to perform the Star Spangled Banner at an event like this, it really is a great opportunity, especially for singers who haven't had a chance to perform in front of a very large (and very supportive) audience.  The Trail Blazer organization is top notch, and Jennifer Ing who calmly  guides the singers through what could be, well, a daunting experience to say the least, is not only a pro - she's an angel.

If anything - I'd say the hardest part last night was finding my way to the loading dock where they hold your tickets and passes :)   Nobody's fault but my own - I walked right past it...twice.  Getting to the arena a good fifteen to twenty minutes before sound check is not a bad idea.

Sure enough, the passes and tickets were patiently waiting, and with friend and family in tow, I made my way through what seems to be a labyrinth (but really is just a big circle) at the court level to the dressing room indicated on the envelope. A group of Blazer Dancers were kind enough to lead the way - thanks Taren and all the other folks back there for showing us where we needed to be!

Once safely tucked away in the dressing room, itself tucked deeply in the heart of the arena - I gave Jennifer a quick call to let her know I was there and, "poof," there was a knock on the dressing room door.

 - More Soon -