End of A Chapter
no more classes, juries, school orchestra...what next?
Hi everyone!
I must say…yikes…April went by in such a flash, I didn’t have the chance to sit down and write a post. Time really flew by like a speeding car, so much so that April feels like a lifetime ago. I suppose this post will count as my “April into May” and cover a bunch of things. Of course, the ironic thing I write this now in the hopes of it counting before the clock hits 12 am and its June (I of course will not make it because…well, thats me and that tracks). Jeez, I need to sort out my priorities a bit, eh? I know I said I wanted to focus on music related things, and yes it will happen and is happening, but I almost feel like I need to take a moment and catch everyone up with “me.” Not that it is important to you, but I figure since this is my space, I might as well use it to the fullest. That being said, lets dive in.
I find it kind of funny that my last post and this post open in a similar vein… “I’ve been very busy, sorry, and will tell you whats up.” I am sad to report that has not changed. In fact, it got busier. But first, an update: I have passed both of my qualifying exams, consisting of score identification, and two essay questions. YAY. That is done. PHEW. All that’s left is the paper, lecture recital, and oral exam. Now, you must be wondering…the title of this post is “end of a chapter” and i just rambled off more stuff I need to do before I attain the rank of Doctor. Let me explain:
I’m done with coursework, academic orchestra, school obligations, FOREVER (minus the last few things left to accomplish). This is huge for me, and for anyone in my position. This means that the academic portion of my life is over. Kindergarten to now is quite a long time, and my official schooling is now over. Also, this means less commuting to Rutgers, which is a godsend considering its at least an hour in each direction and anywhere from 40-60 miles (depending on the route, traffic, NJ drivers, and weather). Of course, this also means the official end of academic lessons, which for me is obviously the cello. I will continue to take lessons here and there to support my continued growth and exploration of the cello, but now its on my own terms, own schedule, and now I am more an equal to my teacher (this may be a huge oversell, but i’d like to think so). This also means the freedom to explore repertoire on my own terms, make decisions based on fact and intuition, and get feedback from others as a peer. This newfound autonomy will be interesting to explore. We shall see what comes out of this, and what repertoire I will proceed to conquer.
Now of course, the “what next” part…trust me, I’m a bit tense about it. Jobs aren’t particularly flushing the market, and gigs are touch and go. Of course, I will continue to teach privately, and coach ensembles whenever and wherever I can. I will play weddings, cocktail hours, corporate events, and more. Essentially, I will do everything and anything. But, as I mentioned earlier, I am shit with prioritizing. The paper, and the learning of my lecture music will have to take forefront finally. One can only delay it so much before the angst, dread, and the annoyance of everyone around you finally hits you dead on. Which it has. All I can say is…YIKES. It’s the formatting thats deterred me, and of course, the incessant need to be working rather than actually planting my ass down and writing the damn thing. Well, this summer is for that. Besides that, I hope to spend time learning new music, exploring NYC a bit more and the surrounding states, and hanging with friends and family. And of course, keeping up with this blog like thing.
Now, I think that’s enough for now. I hope this little update doesn’t stop you from following me, and I do look forward to bringing more cello related content. I’ve got a couple in the archives that need to worked out, specifically focusing on chamber music, the human voice, sound baths, cellos old and new, and even carbon fiber cellos. I suppose a post regarding my work into my lecture project will happen as well, but for now, baby steps. Let this cellist begin the damn thing first. I look forward to bringing you more goodies in the future!
Until then, cheers my friends, and thank you for your patience.