Dave Michael, a Waynesville resident, first picked up the trumpet in junior high school in San Mateo, California, inspired by a trumpet-playing neighbor and early private lessons. After high school, he joined the military and spent a year performing in a drum and bugle corps. However, his time as a trumpeter paused during deployment in Vietnam, where it wasn’t practical — or safe — to continue playing.

It wasn’t until 40 years later, in retirement, that Dave returned to the trumpet. With the guidance of a Western Carolina University music professor, he resumed lessons and joined the Mountain Winds Band in Cullowhee. Through connections there, members of the Haywood Community Band invited him to join HCB as well.

“I’ve lived in Waynesville for 13 years now, and I’ve spent 10 of those playing with the Haywood Community Band,” Dave says. “It’s brought me great friendships, kept my mind sharp, and most importantly, given me a way to give back to the community.”