It’s been super uphill the last two weeks: Spotify keeps taking down podcast episodes, the new MemberPress Course setup is more cumbersome than I anticipated (but ooooooweee do I have some killer classes coming), someone keeps trying to steal my passwords, and Paganini’s 24th Caprice is eating my lunch every time I sit down to practice. Actually, that’s kind of fun because it’s been a long time since I’ve seen notes that I’ve had to ask colleagues how to play. (PS: two famous cellists you definitely know were both like screw that, this is why I don’t play that stinking thing lol and another suggested it might be a misprint). In truth, I know I’m getting better every time I sit down and work away at those variations. Plateaus are worse. But it’s been a while since a piece resisted me at such a fundamental level. Good for the soul, not to mention tempering the ol’ ego. I tell people every day that what we do takes time and work. So I will spend this time and do this work.

But still. How you doin’?

On the upside, I’ll be releasing several fresh podcast episodes this month and into May, including one with Miranda Wilson, who is just a marvelous person and tons of fun to talk to. I would also really welcome more actual (not spam) voicemails with questions or topic requests in the Lonely Cello inbox: 001 323 657 9444. And if you’re like me and live in fear of speaking to 99% of people on the phone, worry not. This is an inbox only, only for texts and voicemail. Nobody will ever pick up, no matter when you call!

Until then, if you want to know how I am, just come to this post, look at the octopus, and make your assumptions from there. 🐙