The Show Must Go On!

It’s over!

My recital has been booked and planned since January! That is a long time to anticipate an event.

Turns out I’m cursed with recitals. Last recital, Jessica was up all night the night before with food poisoning. When she lived here, we did combined recitals. Jessica barely made it to the recital and sat in the back near the bathroom. I had to miss a previous recital because I had covid. This recital, I got hit with a bad cold. I was pretty sick Thursday and Friday. I was extremely congested and my voice sounded raspy and hoarse. Saturday, my illness didn’t suddenly disappear, but it was a little better. I felt the prayers.

I have 17 students! My schedule is filled to the brim. On Mondays I teach from 9:00-9:30am, 4:00-6:00pm, and 6:30-8:00pm. On Thursdays I teach from 4:00-6:00pm and 6:30-8:00pm. One student quit after the recital, so I am now down to 16. I’m proud of these musical humans! Nearly all of my students played their songs memorized!

I tried out a new venue for my recital, the Sandy library. It has a grand piano and I was pleased with the instrument and the space in general. There was a microphone and I had control over the volume, so I was able to hear the students announce their songs well. This venue is free which is excellent. I did still charge my small recital fee to help cover printing and other costs.

3 of my students didn’t perform at the recital–Zoey Hoover as well as Elena and Daniel Miranda. I also gained a student at the concert. Jessica still teaches a couple of students remotely and one of her students played the violin. Sophia nailed it and many complimented her after. I accompanied her and played duets with 4 other students.

This year, I had a folded program which is different than in the past. Shoutout to Jessica (and Canva) for helping with the design. Also, instead of giving my students a sugary treat at the end, I opted for piano music socks for each of the performers. These were popular and Izzy claimed one. Sorry honey but those are mine. Andrew also eyed them and wants some.

Something I continue to have to work on is not letting my stress get taken out on my family before big events (like recitals or hosting big dinners). Not to brag or anything, but I was prepared and didn’t owe anymore apologies afterword. I think it helped that my students were prepared! Originally we had a conflict and Andrew and the kids weren't able to attend the recital. Having them there meant the world to me. (James was at a birthday party.) Izzy helped me go early and set up chairs and Penny was eye candy for the audience. Andrew recorded the recital and I've already listened to it again!

My next recital will be a Christmas recital! I’ve always wanted to have a holiday event and now that we won’t be in Brazil during December, it can happen. Christmas music is simply the best. I forewarned parents that we will be starting Christmas music in September, so hopefully they don’t get burned out.

After the recital, Andrew and I got tacos with McCall and Trevor. James and Izzy got to watch a movie with Grandma Langlois and Penny got to tag-along and be the cutest fifth wheel ever. What a superb way to celebrate the end of this event! Way to go Ditto studios!