Happy Birthday Dr. Ode (Jim) from your former student from T-burg!
During my high school years, I will never forget a particular lesson I had with you after diligently preparing a solo the previous week, only to totally botch it in your presence. I finish the solo, put down my horn, and hung my head awaiting your sentencing. Your response, “Murphy, take a look out the window. The sun is still shining, the trees are still standing, people continue to walk around campus. Your less-than-perfect performance had absolutely no effect on the universe. Now, try that again.”
Thanks for the inspiration and decency you displayed on a daily basis to students and colleagues, alike, during your years at IC. Blessings to you on your 8oth from both Annette and myself!
With warmest appreciation,
Robert Murphy
Oberlin Conservatory