Reflections of March

Wow, there's a lot to cover from this month!  I'm not sure where to start, so let me start with school.

Music Appreciation: My ears are learning to listen.  I can hear the difference between an oratorio, a mass, and an opera.  And the difference between a solo concerto, a sonata, a string quartet, and a symphony.  Wow!  We've moved through the Classical Era and into the Romantic Period.  There are 13 composers to learn in this unit.  If I can keep them all straight...

Piano: You may have already heard my little rant on this one.  I've made myself proud by playing separate rhythms with my left and right hand.  It was a momentous occasion, quickly followed by the frustration of adding the damper pedal.  I finally got my fingers coordinated and now I have to get my feet involved?!?!?  It hurts my brain.  Ouch.

I'm still visiting churches to learn about other music programs.  I spent this past Sunday at First United Methodist here in Oak Ridge.  They have a vibrant, active music program that includes youth and children's choirs, an adult choir, handbell choirs, and a contemporary band.  Andrew Duncan, their Music Director, took time to walk me through the logistics of running such a large program - everything from managing a music library database to taking attendance at rehearsals to providing online rehearsal tracks for choir members.  The church has two traditional services and a contemporary service, all organized through an online worship planning tool.  I really appreciated the technological approach to organizing the music program.  I also got a chance to spend a little time with Jeff Kile, who directs the contemporary band, for insight into staffing the band and the tech deck.  I've got tons of notes and ideas for the future.

I've also had some personal growth this month.  Bill Brewer, who set me on my current music education path, passed away from cancer.  Bill had taken time from his busy schedule to consult with me when I didn't know where to start.  He was a calming presence when my life was in upheaval.  When I stopped by his office at the beginning of the semester to thank him for his advice, he invited me into his office, sat me down, and seemed genuinely interested in how I was doing in the program.  At his memorial, many people made mention of Bill's ability to make you feel like you had his undivided attention.  I truly felt that way about my experiences with him.  He lived authentically and strived to make beautiful music as long as he had breath.  He'll be a life-long role model for me.

I would be remiss if I didn't also mention another role model for me -- my Mom turned 70 this month!  I organized a party for her in Delaware.  As a special gift, I asked all of the attendees to give me a list of things they love about my Mom.  What inspiring responses I received!  The ones that stood out to me were her willingness to help her friends, her deep love of animals, and her resilience in the face of life's troubles.

Spring is here and my journey continues... I'm excited for all the things I'll learn in April!