Who: Classical musician - I perform in all kinds of groups and as a soloist. I also teach privately and do the occasional contracting. A little work in the artistic operations field to help pay the bills. I'm wondering if anybody will ever try to figure out who I am

When: 1K on 12/15 after first achieving 2P in November, '08.

How: Mostly traveling LAX - CRW via IAD or ORD. I perform with an orchestra there that pays for my travel. Made 1K on my very first MR: LAX - BOS via SFO. Probably wouldn't have done it had I not been so close to 1K and the flight been totes cheap.

Where: CRW, CLE, CAK, IAH, FLL (South Beach for work!), CHS, SNA, MKE, ORD, DTW (SFO, IAD, DEN, LAS in transit). Non-flying: Santa Barbara, Pittsburgh.

Why: Well, status isn't really THAT important in the grand scheme of things - but it sure is fun. As someone who has to check a musical instrument frequently, UA ticket agents are pretty understanding. This is especially true of the elite counter at LAX. E+ is a huge perk since I'm 6'5. Upgrades are pretty awesome, but I'm not one to complain if I don't get it. The 100% RDM bonus is a huge help with free trips, buying merchandise, and free tix for my instrument when it needs to be cabin baggage.

What: More of the same to CRW. Might be going to MEL for an audition. Hope to travel to HAN to hang with my dad on one of his business trips - my whole family is going, so I want to upgrade them all with SWUs.