This is the last week of class for the semester. In Music Appreciation, we're starting to discuss composers who actually lived in the same century I was born. I'm not very fond of music with unresolved dissonance or music that is completely atonal, so it's been challenging to do the listening assignments. For my last concert report, I went to a Knoxville Jazz Orchestra concert featuring Clairdee singing Billie Holiday and Carmen McRae tunes. That was a really fun evening of music -- there will be more KJO concerts in my future. In my Piano class, I think I've finally gotten a better handle on pushing the pedal at the right time. We've also been through fingering on most of the major scales. Of course, when I play them, in my head I still go, "1-2-3, 1-2-3-4, 1-2-3, 1-2-3-4-5." I'll be happy when my fingers go where they're supposed to without my counting in my head. And I'll be ecstatic when I can play scales with both of my hands together on the right fingers. One step at a time.
It was a busy month for musical performances, too! ORUUC had our annual Concert of Darkness on Good Friday. Ashton brought in singers from UT to join our choir in the choral pieces, which really rounded out our sound. I was excited that I knew a few of the singers -- I'm more connected than I realize sometimes! I sang a solo for Easter (Bach's "My Heart Ever Faithful"), which was my first solo piece in service in a little while. The Knoxville Chamber Chorale performed an amazing concert in Morristown, which my musical colleague Bryon, as well as my Dad and his girlfriend were able to attend. It's been a wonderful ensemble to sing with this season and I'm looking forward to the collaborations with the Knoxville Opera and Knoxville Symphony that we have lined up for the Fall. Knoxville Choral Society closed out our season with the Brahms "German Requiem," a work that really challenged me with its complex melodic lines and fugues.
In the wider UU world, I'm excited to start nailing down details on my involvement in General Assembly in June. I'm helping Amanda in her role as Young Adult Coordinator by serving as the music coordinator. We're planning two worship services and a workshop - all with lots of music. We met this week to discuss themes and high level plans, with more to come next week once my classes end. What a cool summer project!
Finally, I should mention that the permanent Music Director job at my church has been posted and applications are due May 8. This is both thrilling and scary for me. I won't say too much about it, out of respect for the process, but I will tell you all that I plan to apply. I would kick myself if I didn't go after this opportunity to follow my calling at my home congregation. And I know, no matter what the outcome, that ORUUCs music program is my home while I continue to develop as a musician. I'm excited to see the outcome of the process!
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