Performing
riding the dunes
I’ve started to internalize some of the wisdom that has been around for, well, eternity: Do things that make you happy. Screw the economy and the burden of expectations. Things are not the same now, and they will continue to shift and change like dunes in the wind. We were born in the wind and [...]
The Swan: a practice guide.
It lives! First off, thanks to the people who bought the first guide. Here’s the second one, dedicated to a piece that means so much to so many. Next up, some Bach!
adding it up
Now and again I go for a jog without music. After the crunchy/clear headed/isn’t this moment grand thing passes (and it does, without fail), I return to the usual fragmented contemplation that running is supposed to help alleviate. Cresting a hill today, an equation popped onto my mental chalkboard, the results of which were too [...]
fundraiser, day 1 report.
Day 1 was epic and incredibly emotional. I am overwhelmed by the kindness and generosity that has been shown to me. Within 4 hours of launch, nearly $3500 had been raised! I was particularly moved by a donation from a professional violinist whom I have never met before and a whopping $2503 contribution from [...]
Read MoreFundraiser kick off!
Go here if you’d like to contribute to the cello fund. I’ll try to keep it as low-key and unobtrusive as possible. Thank you for all of your support over the past few years. even if you can’t contribute a cent, you’ve made my life rich with your emails, comments and conversation. With [...]
Read Moreimprovisation
Goals 1. Fundraise, without shame, the remaining $16,000 balance on the cello that is currently lying on its side next to me. It’s taking a long time to edit the video the fundraising site requires, and I find it hard to ask for money so directly, especially so much of it. I’m [...]
Read Morepriorities
“I don’t want to hear myself cry”. I find incredible depth in those words, and in their timing. Ellen took it to the next level. PS: She rocks the half sleeve like a boss. What a lovely creature.
Read Moreexciting times
I was talking with someone about the upheaval that’s been a characteristic flavor of the past few years, and he said, “Well, I know you: it’s about time for your next reinvention.” At the moment, I didn’t think much of it, but after a few days of simmering I think he’s about as [...]
Read Moresticky wicket
I need your advice. I have a teenage student who has not responded positively to any approach, though he is progressing as well as anyone who has a pulse and thrashes away at the instrument a few times a week. Part of the problem is attitude: he thinks he’s too cool. I ask him [...]
Read Morehearing versus listening
One of the most frustrating things about teaching is seeing a student work like crazy and still not make music. It’s part of the Note Salad effect: all of the ingredients are there, but with little or no relation to each other. When a player makes music, the x factor that turns excellent technique, correct [...]
Read More
