Music has been working its way back into my life, and I'm pretty ok with that. This includes some weird nostalgic times, some trying times, and some exciting times. I haven't written in a month, and I don't think I'm gonna get too deep on this one, but it's something to say, so that's an improvement.
Celebrate Christmas- I went last night with Charmaine, her parents, her brother and his wife, and my parents. This was the first time our families had met, and it went well, I think (I hope). While the school of music is already very different than just a few years ago, I still greatly enjoyed the concert. UCO did "I Have Seen the Light", which Rod and I had thought was permanently laid to rest a few years ago, but they had a great trio lead the group in an excellent performance of it. The highlight of the concert for me, however, was during the song that the Symphony Orchestra played. It was a medley of several well known Christmas tunes, including Jingle Bells. I was watching my friend Moses playing violin when they got to "Oh what fun it is to ride in a one-horse open sleigh..." and Moses and his stand partner quietly interjected "HEY!" at the appropriate moment. It was not planned by the conductor, the arranger/orchestrator, the school of music, or anyone else in authority... it was a simple outpouring of joy and goofiness that couldn't be stifled by the formality of the evening. This, friends, is just what makes music worth doing.
Jury- This, friends, is just what makes music a pain in the snarfblatt. Two weeks ago, my voice teacher mentioned that I need to choose the songs I will claim to have prepared for my vocal jury. Last time I had a jury was two years ago, and I was certain I'd never have another. Well, folks, I'm filling out jury sheets in octuplicate as soon as I finish this blog posting, then scooting off to APU to practice for a time when I perform before a panel of folks who are my coworkers every other day of the year. People I hound for turning in registrar paperwork and guide to their seats at commencement. These are the people that will evaluate me.
WCHS- For those who don't know, I played piano at my old high school choirs for two years post-baccalaureate-ly. At that point, it was time for me to move on. The thing is, no staff accompanist has been a regular since I left 2 1/2 years ago. Thus, I have been called several times to play for their concerts. This is far more fun than the average rehearsal, but it's a mite strange to be back and have audience members assuming that you've never left. Oh well. Anyway, I'm playing again this year for their Christmas concert. Yay! (yay?)
NewSong- I am on the band rotation at my church. This means that I play keyboard for the Sunday services once a month. I love this. I have grown a lot as a member of an ensemble and in many other ways. It's fun. I even start next week as a mentor to another young player... should be fun. Lately, though, I seem to have become the guy that they call first when they need something extra. It's not a problem- I love doing that stuff. I just find it funny, because a little over a year ago, hardly anyone knew that I played, or even who I was. Suddenly being in demand is probably not great for my ego. So please pray that the swelling of my head decreases. :)
Seven- The worship band that my boss and girlfriend both sing in is called "Seven". On many Sunday evenings (I'll let you deduce what time the service is), they lead music at a local church. Let me tell you, this band kicks some serious boo-tay. I quickly became a fan of the group when I started dating Charmaine, and not just because she's in it. Seriously, they are GREAT. Once they were missing a sound guy, and their leader asked me to sit in. It was fun. Once they were missing a tenor, and again Perry asked me to join them. Once they needed a keyboard player, and I got a call to come fill in. Since then, I've had a standing invitation to join in, and I've been going. My role is a small one, but it's a thrill to be a part of something with such quality. I'd play in that band every day if I could.
I like music.
Comments (2)
>I like music.
Now you tell us.
You're a good man Scotlas :) Miss your face.