So looking back at this year, I can say that it was a good year, although maybe not as profound as years past. Nothing major really seemed to happen, although a lot still happened. I had another successful year of the brass camp, my brass ensembles had some great concerts, my student load increased, I had some fun Saratoga Orchestra performances. I guess one highlight was attending the NW Horn Society's workshop and having the Whidbey Island Horn Club perform. That was a big plus. And this Christmas season was nice with all the performances. Outside of music, we did buy a house, which is profound for the entire family.
But unfortunately no new compositions were completed this year. Tons of arrangements, but nothing original. And I struggled with stress more this year, and I felt like that hindered my progress. And my responsibilities as a father, husband and homeowner (especially this) took up a lot of my time, which left not as much time for music. But, that's how it is...no complaining.
One thing I'm proud of is the creation of my Christmas Carols for the Flexible Brass Quartet books. I put those to very good use last month. I used them with both of my student brass ensembles, with the horn club, and when my students and I (and some local professionals) played in front of Safeway one day. What a handy book! I must say, if you're a brass player, you should pick up a copy of this book! Surely you'll need it for something.
Sorry, enough self-promotion. Hehe, sometimes you've just gotta do it, right?
So now that I've looked back on an overall good year, I look ahead to a better one. Who knows what I will accomplish at this point, but one this is for sure: I'll have a 2nd horn concerto written. It should be done in a couple weeks. I also look forward to the results of my 1st horn concerto in the running for the IHS competition. I also have great concerts to look forward to with the orchestra and my groups.
But one thing I'm going to be focusing on more is simply remembering my motto: be ready for anything. This time, it stems into being more prepared. Countless weeks I found myself unprepared for teaching and directing. I had to rush like mad to prepare for the camp. I just haven't been putting the time I need into being prepared. Plus, I want to be a better player, so I need to get on the ball about practicing later. Last year, my resolution was to practice more, which I did, but just not as much. This year, I've got to up the ante. And I will
We'll see how it goes. Be ready for anything.
Take care and value music.