I have recently joined a pretty cool website I want to tell you all about.
http://www.kompoz.com
It is a music collaboration site. You upload your projects onto the site, and anyone from anywhere can add to it with their own tracks. It's great!
Check out my first project:
http://www.kompoz.com/compose-collaborate/home.project?projectId=43621
I came up with an idea, and people are submitting to it, though I still need to add some more of my own stuff and kind of decide what direction I want to take it. It's really fun hearing different ideas on what to do, I am enjoying it!
And here is a project I collaborated on:
http://www.kompoz.com/compose-collaborate/home.track.project?trackId=294797
I love this one! You just gotta hear it! :-)
I would like to invite anyone and everyone to collaborate with me on this website!
Monday, December 23, 2013
Friday, October 25, 2013
Mixing Madness!
I have been having fun doing some recording and mixing! I am very inexperienced and am just trying it out and seeing where I decide to go with it.
Here are some samples of what I have been working on so far. I am sharing them via soundcloud because that is the simplest way I could figure out to do it. Click the links to hear the tracks!
The first masterpiece (not really, lol) is titled, "Huh? Oh!" It is based on a silly chant my sister and I came up with years ago to go along with a silly made up rap. This is a family "rap" (not sure what else to call it, lol).
1. "Huh? Oh!"
https://soundcloud.com/melanie-shumway-addington/huh-oh
Performers:
Erica Waltz (my Sister) = "Huh? Oh!"
Me = "What? I said, what?"/ Talking at the end
Suzanne Havens (my Mom) = "Hey, Come On!"
Eric (My 6 year old son) = Humming / "What? I said what?" later on in the song
The recording could have gone better, and this is my first attempt at mixing, so I am sure it could be improved. Unfortunately I made a few mistakes that I would have to go back and re-record to fix, which is difficult because we all live in 3 different states! Also, I am new to Garageband and not everything worked out exactly how I wanted.
But, I still think it's fun!!!
2. Blues Flute - Sample
https://soundcloud.com/melanie-shumway-addington/blues-flute-sample
This next recording is a sample of a mix I am working on in Garageband. It is not yet finished. It is all me on my flute, along with a drum loop from the Garageband loop library. I will eventually come up with a more original title, haha. I hope you enjoy it!
3. Women of Ireland - Sample
https://soundcloud.com/melanie-shumway-addington/women-of-ireland-sample
This is again all me on the flute. I am using the James Galway arrangement of this Irish classic, and adapting it for flutes alone (for now. I may change my mind later on). It is just a sample. I love this piece, it is such a gorgeous melody.
I just wanted to give you all an idea of what I am up to! There is more to come :-)
Here are some samples of what I have been working on so far. I am sharing them via soundcloud because that is the simplest way I could figure out to do it. Click the links to hear the tracks!
The first masterpiece (not really, lol) is titled, "Huh? Oh!" It is based on a silly chant my sister and I came up with years ago to go along with a silly made up rap. This is a family "rap" (not sure what else to call it, lol).
1. "Huh? Oh!"
https://soundcloud.com/melanie-shumway-addington/huh-oh
Performers:
Erica Waltz (my Sister) = "Huh? Oh!"
Me = "What? I said, what?"/ Talking at the end
Suzanne Havens (my Mom) = "Hey, Come On!"
Eric (My 6 year old son) = Humming / "What? I said what?" later on in the song
The recording could have gone better, and this is my first attempt at mixing, so I am sure it could be improved. Unfortunately I made a few mistakes that I would have to go back and re-record to fix, which is difficult because we all live in 3 different states! Also, I am new to Garageband and not everything worked out exactly how I wanted.
But, I still think it's fun!!!
2. Blues Flute - Sample
https://soundcloud.com/melanie-shumway-addington/blues-flute-sample
This next recording is a sample of a mix I am working on in Garageband. It is not yet finished. It is all me on my flute, along with a drum loop from the Garageband loop library. I will eventually come up with a more original title, haha. I hope you enjoy it!
3. Women of Ireland - Sample
https://soundcloud.com/melanie-shumway-addington/women-of-ireland-sample
This is again all me on the flute. I am using the James Galway arrangement of this Irish classic, and adapting it for flutes alone (for now. I may change my mind later on). It is just a sample. I love this piece, it is such a gorgeous melody.
I just wanted to give you all an idea of what I am up to! There is more to come :-)
Saturday, October 5, 2013
It Starts!
I finally got the very basics for my home recording studio! I bought the Focusrite Scarlett Studio, which contains the Scarlet 2i2 USB audio interface, studio headphones, a mic, and connectors. It also includes Cubase LE6 (recording/mixing software).
This is a very affordable way to get started recording, and works for both Mac and Windows. Working at Guitar Center, I was able to get some great advice from coworkers with extensive knowledge in this type of stuff. And, my employee discount made it even better!
This system is fabulous--through the interface I can record in real time with the music on my computer, there is no delay. The mic has a nice, crisp and clear sound. I played around with it today some, and I can't wait to explore more and find all the things I will be able to do!
I haven't started using Cubase yet, though it looks like a great program. I was just too excited to start recording--it took a couple hours for me to figure out how to install all of the drivers, register the product and software, etc....and by the time I finished I just decided to start using GarageBand. Eventually I will use it and will report my findings!
Watch out world, flute player Melanie has her own recording/mixing studio!
As soon as I finish creating my first "mix" I will post it. Until then, ciao!
Thursday, October 3, 2013
New Job!
Due to personal circumstances, I have decided to take a break from school. I don't know how long my break is going to be, I guess it depends on how some other things in my life go.
In the meantime I am focusing on some new and different things, and I am excited!
I have gotten a part time job at Guitar Center! I am working as a Customer Operations Associate. I am a flute player, so why would I be excited about a job at Guitar Center? I will tell you why!
It has been a lifelong dream of mine to have my own home recording studio. 10-15 years ago this seemed like nearly an impossible task, because of expenses involved, large mixing equipment needed, and lack of experience and knowledge. Well, ladies and gentlemen, times have changed. We are in the 21st century, and not only is equipment becoming more portable and affordable, but there is a wealth of knowledge online and in books, and affordable training programs. Once I got this job at Guitar Center, I finally decided I think it's about time I make my dream a reality!
Guitar Center sells more than guitars. They also sell electric pianos and keyboards, drums, DJ equipment, sheet music, and top of the line pro audio equipment.
I started this job about 3 weeks ago, and am very excited to be working with musicians and recording artists who have a wealth of knowledge in their fields. Guitar Center hires employees with extensive experience for their individual departments. Every day I go to work I am trying to learn a little more, and it is going a long way.
I finally have a good idea of the type of equipment I need for my desired purposes. I still need to do some more research and learn a little bit more, and once I know exactly what equipment I need I am going to make a budget, and do it! My goal is to get the best possible equipment for the price, and not to buy the cheapest equipment and software just to find out I need to upgrade later. So, I am in no rush, I am simply taking in all the knowledge I can so I can make an informed decision when the time comes.
In the meantime I am focusing on some new and different things, and I am excited!
I have gotten a part time job at Guitar Center! I am working as a Customer Operations Associate. I am a flute player, so why would I be excited about a job at Guitar Center? I will tell you why!
It has been a lifelong dream of mine to have my own home recording studio. 10-15 years ago this seemed like nearly an impossible task, because of expenses involved, large mixing equipment needed, and lack of experience and knowledge. Well, ladies and gentlemen, times have changed. We are in the 21st century, and not only is equipment becoming more portable and affordable, but there is a wealth of knowledge online and in books, and affordable training programs. Once I got this job at Guitar Center, I finally decided I think it's about time I make my dream a reality!
Guitar Center sells more than guitars. They also sell electric pianos and keyboards, drums, DJ equipment, sheet music, and top of the line pro audio equipment.
I started this job about 3 weeks ago, and am very excited to be working with musicians and recording artists who have a wealth of knowledge in their fields. Guitar Center hires employees with extensive experience for their individual departments. Every day I go to work I am trying to learn a little more, and it is going a long way.
I finally have a good idea of the type of equipment I need for my desired purposes. I still need to do some more research and learn a little bit more, and once I know exactly what equipment I need I am going to make a budget, and do it! My goal is to get the best possible equipment for the price, and not to buy the cheapest equipment and software just to find out I need to upgrade later. So, I am in no rush, I am simply taking in all the knowledge I can so I can make an informed decision when the time comes.
Saturday, August 31, 2013
My Junior Recital, April 13, 2013
I completed my Junior Recital on April 13th, 2013. I had been calling it my Senior Recital, since it was the only recital I was required to complete for my Music Education Degree.
****My Junior Recital****
April 13th at 2:00 PM
Here is the link to my Youtube channel, where you may view the videos of my recital:
http://www.youtube.com/channel/UCQhNGgC_-xtxA3S2KDSzyyQ
Inspirations
This recital was a very special event in my life, for many reasons.
First, I had an opportunity to perform with both of my parents in this recital!
Growing up, my parents' love and passion for music was the driving force behind my musical accomplishments. As children, my siblings and I were surrounded by beautiful music, in so many ways: Listening to classical and sacred music on Sunday mornings; hearing our Dad play Chopin and Bach on the piano and our Mom play Barber and Paganini on the violin for hours at a time; singing on the Church choir where my Mom was choir director and my Dad piano player; and so much more. We were given piano lessons and lessons on our individual instruments as we grew up, and were known as the "musical family" in our ward at church. My Dad would write arrangements for our family of various sacred and secular tunes and we would perform for church, talent shows, and family functions. My Dad would also accompany us on all of our musical events, competitions, etc. My Mom and I loved to play duets together on the flute and violin. Our extended family, on both sides, were also very musical, being filled with performers, college professors of music, and composers.
For my recital, my Dad was able to accompany me on the piano, and this was the first time we have had to opportunity to perform together for an audience in about 10 years! After I left Active Duty Army, my Dad had been living in China, and did not know when he would move back to the U.S., so I didn't know if I would get the chance to play with him at a University Recital. I've always loved playing with my Dad, because he is one of the most skilled and sensitive accompanists I have ever played with, and he is never afraid to give me advice to improve my musicality when I am playing. Also, since we are family, we have a unique ability to sense what the other is doing musically. This applies when I sing or play with anyone in my family.
I also had the opportunity to perform with my dear Mother for this recital. My mother has such a beautiful, rich tone on the violin, her passion for music has been such an inspiration to me in my life. We have always loved to play duets together, and even though my Mom hadn't performed for a long time, and we only got to have one rehearsal together, she still agreed to do it, and it meant the world to me.
Special Thanks
****My Junior Recital****
April 13th at 2:00 PM
Dumke Recital Hall
University of Utah
Here is the link to my Youtube channel, where you may view the videos of my recital:
http://www.youtube.com/channel/UCQhNGgC_-xtxA3S2KDSzyyQ
I didn't know how to separate the videos from the others I have on my channels, but here are the pieces that were performed (Each movement of each pieces has its own video):
Program
Syrinx for flute alone Claude Debussy (1862-1918)
Flute Sonata in E Major, BWV 1035 J.S.
Bach
I. Adagio ma nontanto
II.
Allegro
III.
Siciliano
IV.
Allegro assai
Andante et Rondo, Op. 25 for two flutes and piano
Franz Doppler (1821-1883)
II. Rondo
Melanie Addington
– Flute
Dallan Gordon –
Flute
Daniel Shumway –
Piano
La Tourterelle Op. 119 for piccolo and piano Eugene
Damare
Sonata for Flute and Piano Op. 23 Lowell Liebermann
I. Lento con rubato
II.
Presto energico
Ashokan Farewell Jay
Ungar
Arranged by: James Galway and Phil Coulter
Melanie Addington
– Flute
Suzanne Havens –
Violin
Daniel Shumway –
Piano
Inspirations
This recital was a very special event in my life, for many reasons.
First, I had an opportunity to perform with both of my parents in this recital!
Growing up, my parents' love and passion for music was the driving force behind my musical accomplishments. As children, my siblings and I were surrounded by beautiful music, in so many ways: Listening to classical and sacred music on Sunday mornings; hearing our Dad play Chopin and Bach on the piano and our Mom play Barber and Paganini on the violin for hours at a time; singing on the Church choir where my Mom was choir director and my Dad piano player; and so much more. We were given piano lessons and lessons on our individual instruments as we grew up, and were known as the "musical family" in our ward at church. My Dad would write arrangements for our family of various sacred and secular tunes and we would perform for church, talent shows, and family functions. My Dad would also accompany us on all of our musical events, competitions, etc. My Mom and I loved to play duets together on the flute and violin. Our extended family, on both sides, were also very musical, being filled with performers, college professors of music, and composers.
For my recital, my Dad was able to accompany me on the piano, and this was the first time we have had to opportunity to perform together for an audience in about 10 years! After I left Active Duty Army, my Dad had been living in China, and did not know when he would move back to the U.S., so I didn't know if I would get the chance to play with him at a University Recital. I've always loved playing with my Dad, because he is one of the most skilled and sensitive accompanists I have ever played with, and he is never afraid to give me advice to improve my musicality when I am playing. Also, since we are family, we have a unique ability to sense what the other is doing musically. This applies when I sing or play with anyone in my family.
I also had the opportunity to perform with my dear Mother for this recital. My mother has such a beautiful, rich tone on the violin, her passion for music has been such an inspiration to me in my life. We have always loved to play duets together, and even though my Mom hadn't performed for a long time, and we only got to have one rehearsal together, she still agreed to do it, and it meant the world to me.
Special Thanks
I could never have accomplished this recital without all of
the amazing support I have received.
The list is endless, but just to name a few, I would like to
express my gratitude to:
The University of Utah, especially the School of Music, for
the wonderful learning institution it is, and providing the facilities to hold
this recital.
All of my Professors and mentors, for the tools you have
given me that will help me become a better musician, teacher, and person
(Especially: Tiffany Sedgley, Dr. Ely, Dr. Baldwin, and Dr. Napoles)
My dear friends and colleagues, near and far, who have
always believed in me and supported me.
Dallan Gordon, my
friend and one of the best musicians and players I have ever known. Thanks for
all you have done for me, and thanks for playing with me in this recital!
Lisa Byrnes, my private flute instructor for my first two years at the U, who gave such a great start at the U, and gave me so many valuable tools and skills that helped me to be where I am today.
Caitlyn Valovick Moore, my private flute instructor for the last 2 years, who helped me prepare for this recital. She encouraged me, set high expectations, and helped me grow in so many ways as a player and a musician.
My Husband, Dave, who is always by my side, supporting me
with strong hands and a gentle heart. With Dave, I feel like I can accomplish
anything. I love you, Sweetheart.
My Family: My siblings, grandparents, aunts, uncles, and
cousins, who have always cheered me on and been my biggest fans.
My Mother (Suzanne Faerber Havens), whose love and passion
for music have influenced me throughout my life, and who made sure I could have
instruments and private lesson, and has never stopped supporting me in my
music. Mom, you have been such an inspriration to me, and I am so grateful for
all you have done for me, and all of the support you have given me throughout
the years, I am so glad I got to play
with you in this recital, it meant the world to me.
My Father (Daniel T. Shumway), who has exposed me to
beautiful music since childhood, who supported me and played the piano for me
for so many years. Thanks for all the work you put into preparing for this
recital with me. I am so glad with got to play in this recital together, it
meant so much to me. I appreciate all you do.
Lastly, I want to thank the Lord, for the musical talents He
has given me and my family. It has brought so much joy to my life, and blessed
me in so many ways. I hope I can use this gift to help others feel this same
joy.
A New Chapter (as of June 2013)
I moved to Summerlin, Las Vegas, NV, on May 17th, 2013.
This move is something new and different for me. I have moved many times due to the military, but this move was for my husband's job. I am going to do my best to make the most of it!
I am considering this move as a new chapter in my life. I have so many things I want to do with my music, and I won't be able to accomplish all I want to unless I seek out opportunities for myself, step out of my comfort zone, and do it!
Here is a list of my goals and desires regarding my music career. I may not be able to accomplish everything, and certainly not in a short amount of time, so I am going to prioritize my list to decide how I am going to begin.
- Make an academic plan to finish my music degree at UNLV
- Become involved in the local flute community
- Join the Las Vegas Flute Club
- Prepare myself to start teaching flute lessons again by doing the following:
- Assess my flute repertoire and method books, then look online and go to local music stores to make a compilation of my favorite method books and flute repertoire for teaching.
- Assess the various training aids available (Bo Pep, etc)
- Get all my favorite recordings together. Give students copies, or just recommendations? Decide.
- Study more on teaching techniques for the flute, focusing on the following:
- Flute maintenance and materials needed. Make a handout for students
- Breathing
- Making a Tone: Embouchure and Aperture
- Tone Development
- Vibrato (When to begin teaching?)
- Playing position and posture
- Practice techniques, how much to practice/Make practice charts
- Performance etiquette
- Increase my own flute techniques by taking lessons as soon as possible
- Study modern flute techniques
- Study Jazz, Irish, and Japanese flute (if I ever get the opportunity!)
- Seek performance opportunities (local groups, events, musicals, competitions, etc)
- Get the basic equipment needed for recording. Research required
- iMac computer
- Microphone
- Study some of the current technology available that can assist in teaching and performing
- Gather recordings of concerts from University of Utah
- Upload recordings of concerts onto blog, Youtube, and backup onto discs and cloud drive
- Find means of converting old audio and video tapes to digital
These are my goals and my desires. I writing this list so that I can have it written down in one place, track my progress, and record my experiences and learnings.
Monday, June 3, 2013
Progress
As I have been getting settled in our new home, I have been taking some steps to start accomplishing some of my goals (see mt home page for a full list).
GOAL #1: Make an academic plan to finish my degree.
I had an appointment with the Music Adviser at UNLV.
Long story short, I am waiting to find out which classes will "officially" transfer (which is looking VERY good), and I have figured out that it will probably take 2 years for me to complete a Music Education degree, and possibly 1 to 1.5 years to complete a Performance degree.
Taking into account where I want my musical career to go, I am seriously considering switching to a Flute Performance Degree. This way, I can focus all of my study on the flute, and be a private flute teacher, which is what I really want to do. I can always get an Education degree later if I decide to do so!
GOAL #3: Prepare myself to begin teaching flute lessons again.
Getting as degree in Performance will help me toward this goal.
GOAL #10: Find a means of converting old audio and video tapes to digital format.
I have signed up for a class called "Transferring Sound from Analog to Digital" at the West Las Vegas Arts Center. The class begins this Wednesday, and I am very excited!
GOAL #1: Make an academic plan to finish my degree.
I had an appointment with the Music Adviser at UNLV.
Long story short, I am waiting to find out which classes will "officially" transfer (which is looking VERY good), and I have figured out that it will probably take 2 years for me to complete a Music Education degree, and possibly 1 to 1.5 years to complete a Performance degree.
Taking into account where I want my musical career to go, I am seriously considering switching to a Flute Performance Degree. This way, I can focus all of my study on the flute, and be a private flute teacher, which is what I really want to do. I can always get an Education degree later if I decide to do so!
GOAL #3: Prepare myself to begin teaching flute lessons again.
Getting as degree in Performance will help me toward this goal.
GOAL #10: Find a means of converting old audio and video tapes to digital format.
I have signed up for a class called "Transferring Sound from Analog to Digital" at the West Las Vegas Arts Center. The class begins this Wednesday, and I am very excited!
Friday, May 24, 2013
Latest Performances in Spring of 2013
Recordings and notes on the performances to be posted soon.
Recital and Masterclass with John Thorne
March 29th at 7:00 PM
Dumke Recital Hall
University of Utah
On March 29th the University of Utah will be visited by renowned
flutist John Thorne. John Thorne is currently a flute professor at the
Bienen School of Music at Northwestern University. He was previously
associate principal flute of the Houston Symphony.
Following his recital, Professor Thorne will be conducting a
masterclass, which I will be privileged to participate in! I will be
performing the first two movements of Bach Sonata in E Major.
****My Junior Recital****
April 13th at 2:00 PM
Dumke Recital Hall
University of Utah
After four years of intensive flute lessons, I am preparing for my
Junior Recital, which will bring me one more step toward getting my Music
Education degree.
I am currently studying with Caitlyn Valovick Moore, Piccolo
Player of the Utah Symphony, whom I have studied with since Fall Semester of
2011.
From Fall of 2009 to Spring of 2011 I studied with Lisa
Byrnes, Assistant Principal of the Utah Symphony.
I am so excited for this recital! I will be performing the
following pieces:
Syrinx by Claude Debussy
Flute Sonata in E Major by J.S. Bach
Rondo from Andante and Rondo for 2 Flutes Op. 25 by Franz Doppler
Sonata for Flute and Piano Op. 23 by Lowell Liebermann
La Tourterelle by Eugene Damare
Ashokan Farewell
Other performers:
Daniel T. Shumway (Piano)
Dallan Gordon (Flute)
Suzanne Havens (Violin)
Verdi's Falstaff: Opera (Utah Philharmonia Pit Orchestra)
April 19th-20th, 7:30 PM
Kingsbury Hall
University of Utah
Runnin' Fl'Utes
April 27th, 5:00 PM
Thompson Chamber Music Hall
University of Utah
A New Beginning in Las Vegas
I am at the beginning of a new chapter of my life, and I don't yet know where it will take me. I am going to miss the University of Utah, the great learning institution it is, along with the friends I made and the professors who taught me so much. I am happy that even though I have yet to complete my degree, I left the U with a bang!
I had an eventful year at the University of Utah. Just to name a few:
-I attended the National Flute Association Convention in Las Vegas in August 2012 with the Runnin' Fl'Utes
-I performed a piccolo solo with the Runnin' Fl'Utes in December
-I rehearsed and conducted The Moldau with the same group in March
-I played 1st piccolo part in one of the most epic pieces ever composed music for it's 100th anniversary celebration, Rite of Spring by Stravinsky, along with some other great repertoire, with the University of Utah Philharmonia
-I had the privilege of performing in a Masterclass with renowned flutist John Thorne
-I held my Junior Recital for my Utah friends, family, and professors
More details about my performances, along with recordings, to be posted soon!
I am now in Las Vegas, transferring to UNLV to finish my degree. I do not know yet what my course of action will be, or how long it will take to complete my degree. We will see how it goes when I meet with the Music Adviser.
Once I get settled, I want to seek out as many learning, teaching, and performance opportunities as I can. Where will I go from here? I have so many goals and aspirations I want to reach. It is time for me to get out of my comfort zone, and get out there. The possibilities are endless!
Friday, March 15, 2013
Rite of Spring: 100th Anniversary Concerts
On February 12th, 2013, was a concert I never want to forget. This year, the Utah Philharmonia and the USU Symphony Orchestra combined together to perform Igor Stravinky's Rite of Spring, in honor of it's 100th birthday!
Synopsis
The Rite of Spring was originally a ballet, premiered in 1913. This piece was very much ahead of it's time, and caused a near riot! Imagine a aristocratic audience who are accustomed to the beauty and elegance of ballets such as The Nutcracker and Swan Lake. The opening of the piece was enough to cause confusion. It begins with a bassoon solo, in the top of it's range--way out of the range any composer had dared to write for the bassoon. People would lean over and ask each other, "What instrument is that?" The savage, ritualistic nature is revealed quickly with the strange orchestration, voo-doo sounding rhythms, accents on strange beats, constantly changing meters, and provocative choreography. The setting of the ballet is in ancient pagan Russia, about a tribe and the various rituals that take place in preparation for spring. The ballet ultimately ends with a young female sacrifice who dances herself to death. Compared to a ballet about love and swans, this might be a little bit shocking.
Though it was originally a ballet, the orchestral music of Rite of Spring is most often performed alone (In fact, the choreography was lost for many years). The music in itself is enough to keep you on your toes! It is a fascinating piece, one that I had heard growing up (I am glad for classical music parents), but never fully appreciated until I got to perform the piece!
Combining Orchestras
The reason we combined orchestras was because of the vast orchestration of this piece. It calls for about double the instruments of a typical orchestral ensemble! Rehearsing was pretty interesting, because we could only rehearse all together a couple of times before the concert. Before we combined, we just rehearsed without all of the other parts. We actually had a few players at the U who weren't members of the orchestra (but amazing players) sit in and cover some of the parts. Since our school covered most of the first parts, I kept wondering what their rehearsal must be like having the 2nd and 3rd parts but no first parts...I asked one of the other flute players and she said her conductor did a lot of singing! Ours did too, actually, because every part is important. Even 2nd and 3rd wind players have a few solos in this piece, which makes it a lot of fun.
I played the piccolo 1 part. There are 5 flute parts for this orchestra! 1st, 2nd, 3rd/doubles on 2nd piccolo, piccolo 1, and alto flute. Our orchestra covered the 1st, 3rd/2nd pic, and pic parts, and the USU Symphony doubled the 3rd fl/2nd pic part, and covered 2nd flute and alto. What I love about the flute and piccolo parts in this piece is that every part is important--it was never the sole role of a part to play an octave under the high parts, there was a lot of switching off. The alto flute has a lot of long solos in this piece. For the piccolo parts, the function of the 2 parts was usually to switch off, play 2 different lines or whatever, but they were written in unison a few times. I was worried since we had two people on the 2nd piccolo (3rd flute part), but with the piece being as loud as it was, and us being good players able to play in tune, it turned out great.
I loved playing the piccolo part, it was a lot of fun, and very challenging. There really isn't anyone who doesn't have a challenging part in this piece. I was listening to professional recordings quite often while I was learning this piece, because there were some extremely challenging sections. Counting was so essential in this piece, but sometimes that wasn't purely enough--I really had to "feel" where the beats and off beats were to fit my part in. On some sections the piccolo part often had it a little tougher than the flutes because while they were playing an entire line, the piccolo would play on the accented beats, which were usually weird off beats and stuff. It took some time, and some embarrassing moments playing high notes in completely wrong places, but I got the feel of it, and it was enjoyable!
The piece is impossible to sight read, but once it is put together and everyone knows how their parts fit in, you start to hear the true genius of this piece of music.
The Performances
We had 2 performances: the first was February 12th, at Kingsbury Hall at the U. The 2nd was on February 23rd at Utah State University in Logan. Each conductor got to be the conductor at the other's school.
The first performance, February 12th: After rehearsing all day together on Saturday, and a few hours on the 12th before the concert, it was performance time! Rehearsing was a little scary, I must admit. There was some getting lost, but overall it came together great.
But, when we were on stage, I have never felt the atmosphere transform so much from rehearsal to the concert. There was something in the air, everyone was completely focused, and listening to each other, and the performance was absolutely outstanding. Even I had finally got this one little section I had never gotten quite right before...it was great. I will post the recording soon!
The second performance, this was really really sad for me....I got very ill starting a few days before the concert. And I didn't make it. I had a substitute.
My throat was so sore, I felt like someone had went inside and banged a hammer all over the inside of me or something. Apparently it wasn't strep throat, the doc said it was just a stupid virus I had to wait out. Not good....
Okay, so before you judge, you need to understand, I have been a performer for many years. 6 years in the Army Band, I performed through many physical ailments--viruses, allergies, near heat exhaustion, 8 and 1/2 months pregnant. I also performed in every weather condition you can think of. Rain, snow and ice, temperatures from below 0 to above 115.
So when I got this dumb throat thing that made it so I could not even blow a note on my piccolo....it was beyond ridiculous, but I couldn't. Two days before the concert, I realized how bad of shape I was in and I was trying all different kinds of medicines and home ailments but nothing would help. Pain meds helped some, but no amount of decogestants or cough medicine would help me.
We had a rehearsal on Thursday, and I decided to sit it out in hope extra rest would help me recover. There was a flute player at our school who had been sitting in playing 2nd flute in our rehearsals, and he is an amazing player who has been section leader of the Philharmonia and Wind Ensemble several times before, and also played piccolo a lot, so I knew he could do it. I called him and he sat in rehearsal that day with no problems, and said he would cover for me on Saturday if I needed him to. Which I did, sadly. But he did a fantastic job. Thank goodness. If it weren't for him, I would have showed up, and I would have played the best I could, but I would have been coughing and stopping in the middle of playing and it would have been bad. Me playing in that concert would not do the rest of the group justice.
Why am I ending on such a sad note? Wahhh, Wo is me.
Rite of Spring = AWESOME! Recording coming soon!
Check out the blog post written by Dr. Robert Baldwin, conductor of the Philharmonia at the U:
http://beforethedownbeat.wordpress.com/2013/02/10/the-rite-stuff/
Synopsis
The Rite of Spring was originally a ballet, premiered in 1913. This piece was very much ahead of it's time, and caused a near riot! Imagine a aristocratic audience who are accustomed to the beauty and elegance of ballets such as The Nutcracker and Swan Lake. The opening of the piece was enough to cause confusion. It begins with a bassoon solo, in the top of it's range--way out of the range any composer had dared to write for the bassoon. People would lean over and ask each other, "What instrument is that?" The savage, ritualistic nature is revealed quickly with the strange orchestration, voo-doo sounding rhythms, accents on strange beats, constantly changing meters, and provocative choreography. The setting of the ballet is in ancient pagan Russia, about a tribe and the various rituals that take place in preparation for spring. The ballet ultimately ends with a young female sacrifice who dances herself to death. Compared to a ballet about love and swans, this might be a little bit shocking.
Though it was originally a ballet, the orchestral music of Rite of Spring is most often performed alone (In fact, the choreography was lost for many years). The music in itself is enough to keep you on your toes! It is a fascinating piece, one that I had heard growing up (I am glad for classical music parents), but never fully appreciated until I got to perform the piece!
Combining Orchestras
The reason we combined orchestras was because of the vast orchestration of this piece. It calls for about double the instruments of a typical orchestral ensemble! Rehearsing was pretty interesting, because we could only rehearse all together a couple of times before the concert. Before we combined, we just rehearsed without all of the other parts. We actually had a few players at the U who weren't members of the orchestra (but amazing players) sit in and cover some of the parts. Since our school covered most of the first parts, I kept wondering what their rehearsal must be like having the 2nd and 3rd parts but no first parts...I asked one of the other flute players and she said her conductor did a lot of singing! Ours did too, actually, because every part is important. Even 2nd and 3rd wind players have a few solos in this piece, which makes it a lot of fun.
I played the piccolo 1 part. There are 5 flute parts for this orchestra! 1st, 2nd, 3rd/doubles on 2nd piccolo, piccolo 1, and alto flute. Our orchestra covered the 1st, 3rd/2nd pic, and pic parts, and the USU Symphony doubled the 3rd fl/2nd pic part, and covered 2nd flute and alto. What I love about the flute and piccolo parts in this piece is that every part is important--it was never the sole role of a part to play an octave under the high parts, there was a lot of switching off. The alto flute has a lot of long solos in this piece. For the piccolo parts, the function of the 2 parts was usually to switch off, play 2 different lines or whatever, but they were written in unison a few times. I was worried since we had two people on the 2nd piccolo (3rd flute part), but with the piece being as loud as it was, and us being good players able to play in tune, it turned out great.
I loved playing the piccolo part, it was a lot of fun, and very challenging. There really isn't anyone who doesn't have a challenging part in this piece. I was listening to professional recordings quite often while I was learning this piece, because there were some extremely challenging sections. Counting was so essential in this piece, but sometimes that wasn't purely enough--I really had to "feel" where the beats and off beats were to fit my part in. On some sections the piccolo part often had it a little tougher than the flutes because while they were playing an entire line, the piccolo would play on the accented beats, which were usually weird off beats and stuff. It took some time, and some embarrassing moments playing high notes in completely wrong places, but I got the feel of it, and it was enjoyable!
The piece is impossible to sight read, but once it is put together and everyone knows how their parts fit in, you start to hear the true genius of this piece of music.
The Performances
We had 2 performances: the first was February 12th, at Kingsbury Hall at the U. The 2nd was on February 23rd at Utah State University in Logan. Each conductor got to be the conductor at the other's school.
The first performance, February 12th: After rehearsing all day together on Saturday, and a few hours on the 12th before the concert, it was performance time! Rehearsing was a little scary, I must admit. There was some getting lost, but overall it came together great.
But, when we were on stage, I have never felt the atmosphere transform so much from rehearsal to the concert. There was something in the air, everyone was completely focused, and listening to each other, and the performance was absolutely outstanding. Even I had finally got this one little section I had never gotten quite right before...it was great. I will post the recording soon!
The second performance, this was really really sad for me....I got very ill starting a few days before the concert. And I didn't make it. I had a substitute.
My throat was so sore, I felt like someone had went inside and banged a hammer all over the inside of me or something. Apparently it wasn't strep throat, the doc said it was just a stupid virus I had to wait out. Not good....
Okay, so before you judge, you need to understand, I have been a performer for many years. 6 years in the Army Band, I performed through many physical ailments--viruses, allergies, near heat exhaustion, 8 and 1/2 months pregnant. I also performed in every weather condition you can think of. Rain, snow and ice, temperatures from below 0 to above 115.
So when I got this dumb throat thing that made it so I could not even blow a note on my piccolo....it was beyond ridiculous, but I couldn't. Two days before the concert, I realized how bad of shape I was in and I was trying all different kinds of medicines and home ailments but nothing would help. Pain meds helped some, but no amount of decogestants or cough medicine would help me.
We had a rehearsal on Thursday, and I decided to sit it out in hope extra rest would help me recover. There was a flute player at our school who had been sitting in playing 2nd flute in our rehearsals, and he is an amazing player who has been section leader of the Philharmonia and Wind Ensemble several times before, and also played piccolo a lot, so I knew he could do it. I called him and he sat in rehearsal that day with no problems, and said he would cover for me on Saturday if I needed him to. Which I did, sadly. But he did a fantastic job. Thank goodness. If it weren't for him, I would have showed up, and I would have played the best I could, but I would have been coughing and stopping in the middle of playing and it would have been bad. Me playing in that concert would not do the rest of the group justice.
Why am I ending on such a sad note? Wahhh, Wo is me.
Rite of Spring = AWESOME! Recording coming soon!
Check out the blog post written by Dr. Robert Baldwin, conductor of the Philharmonia at the U:
http://beforethedownbeat.wordpress.com/2013/02/10/the-rite-stuff/
Friday, March 8, 2013
My First Conducting Experience
At the University of Utah I am a member of the Runnin' FlUtes Choir (it's a play on the "Runnin' Utes"), and it is tradition in our group to give Music Education majors a chance to conduct a piece on a concert. I was very honored and privileged to be able to rehearse and conduct a flute choir arrangement of "The Moldau" by Bedrich Smetana. It was arranged by Kyril Magg.
Rehearsing and conducting this piece for the Flute Choir was certainly a learning experience for me. It has given me even more respect for all of my current and past music teachers and conductors and the great work that they do.
There is so much preparation involved in conducting a piece, and the Moldau is no easy piece! I played this piece with the flute choir my first year at the U. Learning the flute part was a challenge, but learning the score and conducting the piece was a completely different experience.
Challenge # 1: Multi-Tasking
My first couple of rehearsals, even though I had listened to the piece a dozen times, studied the score and practiced, I found myself getting lost in the music quite a few times. There are many repetitive sections, and because I was spending so much time looking at and engaging the players, I would easily lose track. If I was looking at the score, I would forget to pay attention to the details of how the ensemble was playing the music.
To help me with this, eventually I had to mark every section with different letters and numbers, which helped me stay at the right place in the score, as well as memorize the phrasing better (such as knowing how many times a certain phrase or idea would be repeated). I hope that over time I will figure out ways to keep myself engaged in both the score and the group.
This reminds me of the few times I have been asked to speak in church--I would bring notes to glance at as I spoke, but often when I would look up and speak to the congregation, I would look down and have no clue where I left off. One time I sat there going "uhhhh" for a minute, and repeated myself a couple of times before I got on track. Well, that's me and a score. Multi-tasking certainly has never been my talent.
Challenge #2: Error Detection
Another challenge for me was being able to listen to and hear all of the different parts and detect issues. If I was following a certain line or two, it was easy for me to ignore other parts that were going on. One thing I did to rectify this was to make note of the lines that had difficult parts in certain sections and focus mostly on those. By the end of rehearsing with the group, I think I was starting to get a hang of this.
Challenge #3: Rehearsal Preparation
My first couple of rehearsals actually went fairly well, because I had very specific musical aspects I needed to work on with the various sections. But there came a rehearsal that I found myself completely lost about how to fix a certain section. It was the last section of the piece. It is technically difficult for the players, and there are several tempo changes. I knew I wanted to work on that section, but I didn't have a plan on how I was going to address issues. In fact, I didn't even make an actual assessment beforehand about what the actual problems would be, which was the players listening to each other and moving their notes together. I found myself staring at the score a couple of times, with absolutely nothing constructive to say. I was not prepared for this. I was teaching my peers, fellow flute players I had played next to for years, and now they are all staring at me and waiting for me to tell them what to do. If it felt awkward getting lost in front of my colleagues that I know well and are all good friends, it will feel really awkward when I go out in the real world in front of a group of students who don't know me at all, and will judge me according to every move I make! After that rehearsal, I made sure I had a clear plan! Though the plan would often deviate (flexibility is important!), at least I didn't again find myself staring at the group going, "Duhhhhhhh."
The Performance
After all was said and done, the performance went very well. We have great players in this group. What would I have done differently? I wish I had recorded my rehearsals. I thought about it a few times, but I always forgot to bring the camera.
These are the pieces played on the concert. I will soon including audio recordings/
La Milonga
-C. Caliendo
Brazilian piece, very lively and jazzy!
Four Japanese Folk Songs
1. Kuroda Bushi
2. The Girl of Shonai
3. Soran Bushi
4. Kusatsu Bushi
-Traditional
-Arr. Cathey
Just like it's name, four Japanese folk songs, a really great arrangement.
Carmen Fantaisie
Flute Soloists:
Ashley Bolnick
Tori Sohm
Stefania Neumann
-Bizet (1838-1875)
-Flute Solo Part: Borne
-Arr. Simpson
The 3 soloists were members of our flute choir. This is a very virtuosic piece, split into three sections, and the soloists did an amazing job. The flute choir arrangement was taken from the flute and piano arrangement by Borne, and the having a flute choir accompaniment brings so much color to this piece.
Jamaican Rhapsody
-Traditional
-Arr. Nowak
Includes the piece "Daylights come back, me wanna go home?" At least that is what I think the lyrics to the song is....It's in the movie Beetle Juice! haha
Trio Sonata in G Major
III. Adagio e piano
IV. Presto
-J.S. Bach (1685-1750)
Alicia Kim-Flute
Cindy Chen-Flute
Rachel Jorgensen-Cello
A classic trio by Bach
The Moldau
Melanie Addington-Conductor
-Smetana (1824-1884)
-Arr. Magg
If you haven't heard the orchestral version, listen to it! This is my all time favorite classical piece.
Innes Glas Mor
1. Lovely But Rugged
2. Kylemore Abbey
3. Gogarty’s Pub
-Lisa LeMay
***Amazing piece. There is a penny whistle part written. There are so many awesome moments in this piece, it's a brilliant arrangement.
Maple Leaf Rag
Joplin (1867/68?-1917)
Arr. Hurwitz
What we didn't have room to put on the program was the 7 (or something) different titles given to this piece. Each part had a different title on their part. I played the second part, which was the "Maple Leaf Rug." Others were "Rack," "Ruck," and several more I can't remember. So cute!! Haha. Another great arrangement.
Monday, March 4, 2013
Me in Nutshell
Where do I begin? I am a flute player, and a Music Education Major at the University of Utah. I have a wonderful husband and 5 year old son.
I love music, I love my family, and I just love life in general! I believe in living life to the fullest, always being open to new possibilities, and to never stop learning!
I have had many experiences in my life, many ups, and many downs, and have learned many lessons the hard way. But the hardships I have endured in my life has only made me stronger, and I have always had the support of family and friends, and God has truly blessed me.
I will just start at the beginning!
CHILDHOOD-HIGH SCHOOL (1984-2003)
I grew up in a musical family. Both sides of my family are HUGE, and are very talented musically and academically. My parents forced piano lessons upon me as a child, which I now appreciate VERY much because it gave me a good foundation in music that brought me where I am today! I also sang in church choirs, singing the alto part which taught me how to sight read music fairly well.
In middle school my parents allowed me to choose an instrument, and if I did I could give up piano lessons to take lessons for that instrument! I chose the flute because I just thought it sounded fun, and I thought the flute had a beautiful sound. Once I started playing I never wanted to put it down!
I think I often underestimated myself as a kid. I was usually a lower chair because I didn't do well playing at auditions and playing tests--I got very nervous! But it was okay because I was content where I was. I was dedicated to practicing and improving, and I did very well at local competitions.
In high school, I joined the sophomore band, and that Christmas my parents got me a new flute. It made the biggest difference in my playing (I was playing on an awful used one before) and I improved very much, very quickly. I moved up to 2nd chair (I didn't try for 1st, because the girl who was in 1st was teacher's pet and I didn't want to even try to mess with that--though looking back it is so silly!). I made it into the top band in my Junior year. I also was involved in choir in high school, and in my junior year I was a member or the A capella choir, and "Cantatrise" (elite women's choir in my high school). I have always loved to sing as well. In my senior year I was a member of A Capella and Madrigals, and 2nd chair in the band, once again. I made it to first, but the girl who I beat in the audition (they were blind auditions) kept challenging for 1st chair every week, until one week we both played awful (I honestly think it burned us both out! haha) and she played a little less bad than me. At that point I was just like, whatever, and let her keep it since her heart was so set on it. I made it as Principal flute player in the district orchestra, so I was very happy with that! I also played my first concerto, Chaminade, at my high school, and played it again for the district orchestra. It was an amazing experience.
My high school flute teacher was Nancy Walker, who was an awesome teacher that I will always be grateful for! I thought she was nuts with some of the music she put in front of me to learn, but it challenged me and helped me to reach new heights in music.
ARMY BAND (2003-2009)
After high school I joined the Army and spent 6 years Active Duty in the Army Band. I was stationed in Camp Zama, Japan, and Fort Gordon, GA. The Army was one of the craziest decisions I ever made. Even now people are often surprised when I tell them I am in the military. But it was one of the best! I learned hard work, perseverance, dedication, leadership, confidence, and so many qualities that helped shape who I am today. I also grew so much musically being in the Army Band. We played in so many different situations--rain, snow and ice, or 100+ degrees and humidity, we were there! In Japan we traveled all over the country to perform and maintain friendship and relations with the Japanese. We were the face of the Army in Japan. In Georgia we did many last minute, middle of the night gigs to support troops coming home from deployment.
While I was stationed in Japan I got married and gave birth to my sweet little boy. However I am divorced and remarried now, to a wonderful man who cares for my son like he is his own.
COLLEGE (2009-current)
I took night classes here and there while I was in the Army, but I really began my college career when I got off Active Duty and started at the University of Utah. My first year at the U, I wanted to major in music, but at the time I was a single mom and was worried that I would be unable to support my son, because music jobs are scarce. I took general education classes, and was thinking I would minor in music and major in Special Education. I auditioned for the ensembles at the school of music and made it as piccolo player in the Philharmonia, which is the top orchestra at the U, and the flute choir (Runnin' Fl'Utes!). When I was at school, the only time I felt that I was where I needed to be was when I was in the music building. So in the Spring I switched to Music Education. I decided to go with my heart, and I am glad I chose that path. I still don't know where it will lead me, but that is part of the adventure!
I love music, I love my family, and I just love life in general! I believe in living life to the fullest, always being open to new possibilities, and to never stop learning!
I have had many experiences in my life, many ups, and many downs, and have learned many lessons the hard way. But the hardships I have endured in my life has only made me stronger, and I have always had the support of family and friends, and God has truly blessed me.
I will just start at the beginning!
CHILDHOOD-HIGH SCHOOL (1984-2003)
I grew up in a musical family. Both sides of my family are HUGE, and are very talented musically and academically. My parents forced piano lessons upon me as a child, which I now appreciate VERY much because it gave me a good foundation in music that brought me where I am today! I also sang in church choirs, singing the alto part which taught me how to sight read music fairly well.
In middle school my parents allowed me to choose an instrument, and if I did I could give up piano lessons to take lessons for that instrument! I chose the flute because I just thought it sounded fun, and I thought the flute had a beautiful sound. Once I started playing I never wanted to put it down!
I think I often underestimated myself as a kid. I was usually a lower chair because I didn't do well playing at auditions and playing tests--I got very nervous! But it was okay because I was content where I was. I was dedicated to practicing and improving, and I did very well at local competitions.
In high school, I joined the sophomore band, and that Christmas my parents got me a new flute. It made the biggest difference in my playing (I was playing on an awful used one before) and I improved very much, very quickly. I moved up to 2nd chair (I didn't try for 1st, because the girl who was in 1st was teacher's pet and I didn't want to even try to mess with that--though looking back it is so silly!). I made it into the top band in my Junior year. I also was involved in choir in high school, and in my junior year I was a member or the A capella choir, and "Cantatrise" (elite women's choir in my high school). I have always loved to sing as well. In my senior year I was a member of A Capella and Madrigals, and 2nd chair in the band, once again. I made it to first, but the girl who I beat in the audition (they were blind auditions) kept challenging for 1st chair every week, until one week we both played awful (I honestly think it burned us both out! haha) and she played a little less bad than me. At that point I was just like, whatever, and let her keep it since her heart was so set on it. I made it as Principal flute player in the district orchestra, so I was very happy with that! I also played my first concerto, Chaminade, at my high school, and played it again for the district orchestra. It was an amazing experience.
My high school flute teacher was Nancy Walker, who was an awesome teacher that I will always be grateful for! I thought she was nuts with some of the music she put in front of me to learn, but it challenged me and helped me to reach new heights in music.
ARMY BAND (2003-2009)
After high school I joined the Army and spent 6 years Active Duty in the Army Band. I was stationed in Camp Zama, Japan, and Fort Gordon, GA. The Army was one of the craziest decisions I ever made. Even now people are often surprised when I tell them I am in the military. But it was one of the best! I learned hard work, perseverance, dedication, leadership, confidence, and so many qualities that helped shape who I am today. I also grew so much musically being in the Army Band. We played in so many different situations--rain, snow and ice, or 100+ degrees and humidity, we were there! In Japan we traveled all over the country to perform and maintain friendship and relations with the Japanese. We were the face of the Army in Japan. In Georgia we did many last minute, middle of the night gigs to support troops coming home from deployment.
While I was stationed in Japan I got married and gave birth to my sweet little boy. However I am divorced and remarried now, to a wonderful man who cares for my son like he is his own.
COLLEGE (2009-current)
I took night classes here and there while I was in the Army, but I really began my college career when I got off Active Duty and started at the University of Utah. My first year at the U, I wanted to major in music, but at the time I was a single mom and was worried that I would be unable to support my son, because music jobs are scarce. I took general education classes, and was thinking I would minor in music and major in Special Education. I auditioned for the ensembles at the school of music and made it as piccolo player in the Philharmonia, which is the top orchestra at the U, and the flute choir (Runnin' Fl'Utes!). When I was at school, the only time I felt that I was where I needed to be was when I was in the music building. So in the Spring I switched to Music Education. I decided to go with my heart, and I am glad I chose that path. I still don't know where it will lead me, but that is part of the adventure!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)