Folks, I've been playing for solo and ensemble since 6th grade! Not to show my age or anything, but I think that is 16 years. My mental math is NOT what it used to be. Do kids still have to do mental math? The requirements in school just amaze me these days. (Did you know some schools do not teach cursive? That is really unfortunate, because I write all my assignments in cursive. Yes, I try not to, but it just happens. I just can't believe that they would not teach cursive.) Back on track, yes.. solo and ensemble. Its so funny to reflect on my personal experiences in solo and ensemble verses my professional experiences. Some things never change; the nerves, the not practicing until the last week (or day), the band romances, the embarrassing parents, the unfortunate fashion decisions. (Side note: Girls, please do not EVER wear dresses shorter than you knees for a performance without leggings especially if you are sitting. Be smart! Fashion sense aside, its March 1st, snowing and it is cold!)
Anyway, here it is springtime, and here I am. Accompanying at solo and ensembles. I like to think that I am good accompanist. And, truthfully, I look forward to this time of year. Sure, there are some things I dislike (mostly like 10-12 hour days in the weeks leading up to it.) This year I have tech week for “Peter Pan” the week following solo and ensemble. This equates for two very long weeks. Regardless, I love playing and working with kids, and I am thankful for both opportunities.
I have been ridiculously busy the past few months and have severely neglected my blogging. I get so jealous of bloggers updating their blogs multiple times weekly. Its not like I don't think of things to say. I just get home and want to do nothing, or son has other ideas of entertainment, or I put off blogging until I have more recordings. Recordings I have. MANY. I just have to get them on the computer which takes even more time than blogging. So, I may put off the recordings for a minute, but I promise that I will be more diligent to blogging. I also plan on blogging the article I write for the Ivy Vine (our church's newsletter). I write one monthly, and that would guarantee you at least one entry a month which is much better than my entries as of late. I know you are just dying to know what life is like for a piano teacher/pianist in her late twenties.
So, what is new in the life of this particular piano teacher/pianist? Well, our biggest new thing is that we, my husband and I, are looking for a house. What does this mean for my students?? Hopefully, nothing just a different location. Husband and I love our neighborhood, and I love my students. I also love my position with Shrewsbury Theater, and do not plan on leaving soon. If we do move too far from Lindenwood Park, I have already discussed moving my students to the Shrewsbury City Center. The last thing I want is for this move to disrupt my studio. I develop such a personal relationship with all my students. I get very protective of them. I know I only see my students once a week for a half hour or hour, but I love them all dearly. It would kill me (and does) to lose any student. Have no fear West County students, this move should not affect you at all.
As I've mentioned “Peter Pan” is opening next week. I am delighted to work with our Peter, Kristen. She is phenomenal. The children sound AH-MAZING! As always with Shrewsbury, there are so many children that sometimes it can be a little chaotic, but honestly, I am so pleased to give all the children a taste of the theater. I can only hope that the little amount of time that I have to work with them has fostered a lifetime love of the theater. I wish I had more time with them all, but time restraints being what they are.. I only have the 5 hours a week with them. I certainly hope they realize that I care and would happily do anything to make their experience better. Performances are this coming Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Please come out and support the kids.
Well, all that being said.. I think its time for this girl to sign off. Check back soon for more updates, entries and RECORDINGS!
Smiles,
Anna-
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