Lakota West

The reason I came back from Piteå early was to have the opportunity to rehearse with the Lakota West Symphonic Winds before playing two pieces with them on their winter concert on December 14.

I went into rehearsal on Friday (after getting to Ohio in the middle of the night on Wednesday…after a lovely 26 hour of traveling) still jetlagged. I put on a happy face and did my best to play through the concerto for the first time. My old band director, Mr. Snyder, had really talked me up with the band, and even dubbed that Friday “Maria Day”. I had a big expectation to fill, that’s for sure!! Unfortunately, I wasn’t happy at all with my playing that day. I ended up using the music as a crutch because I was having so many memory slips, and was having a hard time focusing. Again, I just put on the confident face, and knew that Monday would be better.

I spent the weekend practicing and preparing for the concert. I wrote the cadenza addition to the xylophone rag, as well as an alternative part to one of the choruses that I was pretty happy with. When I went into the dress rehearsal on Monday I was much more rested and prepared!

The dress felt great! My tempos were more consistent, the band sounded more confident, and I felt a lot better about my playing. I was having  blast! Good thing we had an extra rehearsal!

That night we met some of my extended family members at Penn Station (a sandwich place) for dinner. Uncle Dan, Aunt Georgia, Pam, Dennis, little Chloe, Uncle Gary, Aunt Kathy, Brad, Chad, Ness, Chris, and chubby little Logan all came out to support me. I was so excited to play for them!

I got to the school early to "get into the zone" (haha). The joy about playing with such a huge high school program…the concerts are really long. West has a great program (thanks to Mr. Snyder) and there are FOUR, yes FOUR, bands of sophomores-seniors. They break the night into 2 sections, so I just had to sit through one of the other bands.

I set my equipment up at around 8, but didn’t get on stage until around 9. That is one of the worst things about percussion…not having a physical relationship with your instrument is very different from all other instruments. I just had to trust that I could play everything cold!

It was really surreal standing on that stage again. I played in the Symphonic Winds for three years in high school, and I have some amazing memories playing with the ensemble...the most special being the concert we played at the Midwest Band and Orchestra Clinic. Thinking about everything I’ve been fortunate enough to experience in the past 6+ is so incredible….four great years at Ohio State, two intense years at Eastman…and who would have ever imagined I’d be living in Piteå now studying with Anders?! And now, coming back to my highschool as a "famous" alumna...life is crazy…and now more than ever I’m just enjoying the unexpected.

I was absolutely overwhelmed by the reaction of the audience. They leapt up after the concerto. It really made me feel amazing. We did a quick shift of instruments to get the xylophone in place, and played Charleston Capers. In the cadenza (that we added), I played a bit of “We Wish You a Merry Christmas”, which was definitely a crowd pleaser. I was excited because the band didn’t drag at all, they played great! After the tune, once again the audience stood up, as did the band. Talk about feeling like a rock star! Thanks Lakota West for a great experience!

with Mr. Snyder after the concert

My mom and dad! Mom invited "all of West Chester" to the concert!

I have my own roadie! thanks for carrying my stuff bro!

Later in the week, I spend two days up at the school coaching percussion ensemble and doing a clinic on timpani. The students were wonderful to work with, very attentive and responsive. As much as I like performing, I love teaching, too. Man…I hope I get a job one of these days!!

Just for laughs...my junior year (around 15 years old) Marching Band photo that is hanging up in the band room at Lakota West!

Getting there is half the battle

Since I’ve been home for almost 2 whole weeks, I guess it’s time to tell you about it! As you can see, I’m in my “relax and enjoy life” mode…meaning that I get about one major task accomplished everyday. Today the goal is to update this blog, so here it goes…

Getting there is half the battle…and whoever made up this saying is totally right! The few days before I left to come home, I was so preoccupied with practicing and seeing my friends that I had to (chose to) stay up all night cleaning and packing before I left for the States. I had to leave my apartment at 5am to take a taxi to the airport, so I just figured that it would be best to not go to bed at all. The best part about this plan was that three of my friends, Venla, Johann, and Phil, came over for tea and to visit throughout the night. So, along with their company and everything I had to do, it was pretty easy staying up (note that my last blog post was at 3:10am during that night!). I know that when I get back to Sweden I’ll be very happy that I tore my apartment apart cleaning…so I’m glad I stuck through it!

Finally, at around 5am on December 9, I rolled/carried my 50 lb. suitcase and backpack to the stop where the taxi was to pick me up. At that time the weather in Piteå was pretty mild…so I was literally dragging my suitcase (that is about as big as me) through about an inch of nasty slush. Nothing like starting a whole day’s worth of travel off with a little workout!

I reached my destination at around 5:15am, and my taxi was supposed to pick me up at 5:25am. I always like to be early, but the time was passing my so slowly! I was so nervous that the taxi wouldn’t show up. I made the reservation online, and printed out the confirmation because I was so scared that it wouldn’t make it. As even more time passed, I really started to get nervous! When it was 5:35, I called the taxi company, but of course no one answered. If I missed my first flight, all my travel plans would be ruined!

I finally sighed with relief, as the taxi showed up around 5:40. Phew. I texted Lou later saying that she almost got a 6am wake up call of panic!

As soon as my butt hit the seat in the taxi, I was asleep. I literally have no recollection of the 50 minute car ride. When I got to the Luleå airport (in a blink!), I went to check-in at one of those self-serve kiosks. My heart dropped again when it read “reservation cannot be found”! WHAT?! At this point I have flow Scandinavian Airlines tons of times, and this has never happened. I waited in line at the bag drop, and luckily the woman at the desk found my reservation in the computer. Phew number 2!

Once again, I have no memory of this leg of traveling. I can’t even tell you if I was in a window seat. All I can say is that I had a very deep 1 hour nap!

When I got to Stockholm, I had 2.5 hours to kill before my flight to London. I immediately grabbed my bag and checked in at the other terminal, just so I didn’t have to drag it around (and I’m really glad I did, because I didn’t have to wait in line at all. Plus, when I went back to go through security it was really crowded!)

Arlanda Airport is really nice, so I wondered around the stores and ate a yummy breakfast at McDonalds (fresh grain bread with cream cheese, lettuce, tomato, and ham…won’t find that one the menu in the USA!). In the stores I found a lot of gifts that I would have loved to buy for family and friends, but I just had to resist. I purchased most of my Christmas presents in Paris, and I’ll have to bring home more Swedish gifts at the end of this year.

The flight from Stockholm to London was pretty uneventful. It was only 2.5 hours, and I dosed in and out throughout the journey. When I landed in London, I immediately turned on my phone. My good friend from Eastman, Becky, is from London and she was going to try to meet me at the airport. After about a million messages, we realized that it just wasn’t going to happen. I only had 1.5 hours between flights, and had to go through security and such. If I would have gone out to meet her, I would have had to go through customs and all that jazz. The employees said that you need at least a 3 hour layover to do so. I was really bummed because I miss Becky a ton and she came all the way out to the airport to meet me. We had a laugh realizing that we were essentially in the same place but couldn’t see each other. We’ll be planning a trip in the spring to visit for sure!

I’m really weird, and actually enjoy long flights. It amuses me how the system of controlling the passengers works (plus I was flying British Airways, so all of the flight attendants sounded even friendlier with their accents). I got settled in my seat next to an old Hungarian couple that were very nice, but didn’t speak English, so I knew that this flight wouldn’t be filled with any exciting conversations. Almost immediatly after taking off, the stewardess came around and ask you if you would like a drink. I always choose water or orange juice. Then about 30 minutes later it was time for our meal, with wine! After you eat they turn off the lights as if to say “now it’s time to sleep and not bug us, we’ll wake you up when we want you to be awake!”

If you know me, you know that I can sleep absolutely anywhere. Normally, I would probably sleep 5 hours out of an 8.5 hour flight. For some reason, despite my inadequate slumber the night before, I COULD NOT SLEEP!?!!?! What’s up with that? It was very frustrating. I actually watched 3 full movies. Usually, it’s hard for me to stay awake watching one movie at home, but for some reason my brain just kept thinking and I couldn’t turn it off.

I finally reached Chicago safely and was prepared for another 3 hour lay over. By this time I was just ready to be back in West Chester, but did try and take this time to enjoy being back on US soil. I went through customs in a breeze, and was immediately reminded of the American friendliness. I ended up chatting with a couple in the airport shuttle, and befriended a man sitting at the gate waiting for our flight. He was returning from Spain, lived in West Chester, and used to coach JV baseball at my highschool. Small world, huh? It was nice chatting with him because the flight was delayed an hour! Ugh! I just wanted to get home! Plus, at this point, I would be arriving in Cincinnati at around 1am, and that is way past my parent’s bedtime!

The flight was delayed because of the aweful weather in Chicago…it was snowing and icing. I joked by apologizing for bringing the winter weather with me. On the 45 minute flight (seriously…I hate when I have to fly to and from Chicago, it just seems so silly!), I sat next to a very chatty guy. He literally talked for about 35 minutes of the flight…about all the places he’s gone, his wife (newlywed, kind of cute) and his job. I got in a few words here and there, but it was nice to listen. It was also a little odd…he really liked talking about himself!

...and...finally....I was back in Ohio! Mom, dad, and bro were waiting outside the gate at CVG! I felt so out of it, I couldn’t even process the fact that I was home!!! I recalled as many travel stories as possible during the drive to West Chester, and was really happy to see our beautiful house, and sleep in my huge, comfy bed. Välkommen hem till mig!

Homeward bound

I haven’t done a good job of remember to write since I got back from Paris. Again, time is just flying...and it about 2 hours I’ll be climbing into the taxi to take me to the airport and begin my travels back HOME! woohoo!

When I got back from Paris I was exhausted. Absolutely exhausted….2-4 hours of sleep a night just didn’t cut it! At first I was really happy to be back in Piteå, but once the comfort of my own things wore off, I was really cranky! I was on such a high the whole vacation, I think my body and mind just crashed. It took me a few days to be happy again…my great friends and some great practicing helped a lot!

The great weekend also assisted with getting over my post-awesome-trip-depression. I threw an “American Style” party at the community building (called Kvartes) on Friday. Anna and Lou (and Facebook) helped me spread the word. We set up beer pong, flip cup, and a kings (card game) table. I also maybe Skyline Chili dip…it was to be as American as it can get! My friend, Marcus, also agreed to be the DJ, so we were all set!

The party was a blast…and people are still talking about it :) So, if Piteå doesn’t remember me for my music, at least they will remember me for being the hostess with the "mostess"! Haha…here are a few pictures. A ton of people showed up...half of which I didn't even know!

We come as a Trio...most peole know that by now! Couldn't have thrown the party without Lou and Anna!

Swedes love beer pong...and I love that I can actually win playing against them :)

Ulf made me a necklace, because one of mine broke and everyone blamed him (I didn't). It was a funny joke, and I can't believe he actually came through and made me another one...from plastic wrap, almonds, paper clips and a chain. I wore it all night...it was a bold fashion statement!

David and Alexander practicing their flip cup skills!

Ola and I try to convince people we're cousins (he studied in the States for a year)...more people believe us than I ever thought would!

 Happy friends = happy Maria!

On Saturday, Anna and Lou helped me clean what was the biggest mess I’ve ever seen. Then, we went into town to go to Max…our 'McDonald’s'. We felt like we deserved a burger :) We got stared at though...first because we were speaking English, and second because we looked and smelled really bad…oh well, th food was worth the horrible looks! Later, we watched a movie and made dinner that night to recover from the party. Being a hostess is tiring!
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For the past few days I have spent a lot of time in the practice room. Next Monday I’m playing a concerto and a xylophone rag with Lakota West, and I really needed to focus on memorizing! I was a little worried over the weekend, since I’ve spent so much time away from the instruments…but I’m feeling good about it now. I’m actually really excited! I think it’s going to be a fun concert!

I’ve also said a lot of “hejdå” (goodbye) to my friends the past few days. Although Piteå may not be the most lavish town, I think that as long as you surround yourself with good people, positivity, and a trade that you enjoy…any place can become home. I’ve made so many memories here the past 4 months, I can’t wait to see what is in store for the next 6!

On that note...I CAN NOT WAIT to get home to Ohio…I am just happy that this adventure has turned as it has. Sharing my stories and what I’ve learned with friends and family will make the experience even more rewarding.

Next time I write, I will be in Ohio!!!!!!!!!!!!!

An American in Paris!

Well...not just one American...but MANY Americans! This trip was even better than I could have imagined. Seeing Kana and Morgann from Ohio State, and then the majority of the Eastman Percussion Studio in such an amazing city was such a wonderful experience! I think I could write for ages about the whole trip, but will just share a few pictures to give you an idea of the insanity that was the past two weeks of my life!

The trip began with 5 days in Stockholm. I spent a ton of time with Tove and Emma. We went to the premiere of "New Moon" (not good, but really entertaining!), shopped, baked, and ate! I had a fabulous time with them, and really feel like one of the family...which is the best feeling ever! This is a picture of us outside the huge gingerbread house in Central Station in Stockholm.

We made cookies and did a lot of Christmas-y things!

Then, it was off to Paris! I had to take a 1.5 hour bus ride to the airport, because I was flying RyanAir (a really cheap airline!) The traveling went really smoothly. Kana gave me detailed directions for the Metro once I arrived in Paris. I was a little nervous to navigate through the city by myself, but I'm a smart chick, and figured it out! Morgann was waiting for me because Kana was at work. We chatted and walked around until Kana was home.

When I heard Morgann's voice shout my name, I flipped out...first because it was in English, and second because I haven't seen her in over 2 years!

Walking around with the girls...the lights were so pretty!

Notre Dame was incredible. We listened to the Mass for a bit, and took communion. I actually started to cry a little bit, just reflecting on how lucky I've been to experience such great things. Wow, it gets to me just thinking about it right now!

Kana and Morgann

Eiffel Tower!! it was so huge! Plus, since it's her 120th birthday, they do an amazing light show every hour. We got there just in time to see it, on accident!

View outside of Kana's apartment....so Parisian!

Out shopping in the morning before I have to leave for the percussion festival

Thanksgiving Dinner with the Eastman percusion studio in Paris. I have a TON to be thankful for!

Professor Burritt and our super cool waiter!

Then it was time to walk to the Eiffel Tower, and go to the top. Our perfect plans were spoiled by the rain....and man, did it pour! Although some may have turned back to take shelter, we all powered through and were drenched...it was a ton of laughs, and even more memorable than if we would have been dry!

Annie, Amy, and I right before the rain started...

And....we're soaked!

The rain stopped when we got back to the ground, of course! The moon looked amazing too!

We did a lot of sight-seeing inbetween the concerts and my work schedule. Annie, Sean and I ran over to the Louvre one afternoon...

Nutella and banana crepe! Yummy!

We went out on the town everynight. I will spare you of those crazy pictures! But, this one is fun. Chris and I outside of the Moulin Rouge the last night. It was so sad to have to say goodbye to everyone!

The ESMers left on Monday morning, and since my flight wan't until the evening, I decided to do some solo sight-seeing, which I thoroughly enjoyed! I went up to Sacre Coeur...a very artisty district, beautiful church and amazing view of the city!

I can't believe that the trip is over, since I was looking forward to it so much! Reuniting with some of my best friends made me realize how important it is to keep in touch with and support those that mean so much to me. No matter where we are in the world, they know and accept the real me, which is all a friend can ask! It also gave me motivation to create opportunities to play with them...because I sure so miss it!

2am

The last two days have been packed, which means I haven't had time to write! Last night we recorded Hittade. I'm so excited to hear the final product. It took a really long time, and I was exhausted by the time we finished at 1 in the morning...but I know it was worth it! I'll post pictures and more details when I'm back from...

PARIS!!

I just finished packing (well, at least for now...) for the 10 day trip. I'm trying to keep my luggage light, but 10 days is a long time. Plus, I am taking nicer clothes than just "touristy" things because I'm helping out at the Zildjian booth in Paris at the marimba competition. I can't believe that this trip is finally here! I have a lot of fun things lined up for Stockholm as well...Tove (Anders' daughter) has promised to be a good guide!

I will write a lot when I get back...but you won't hear from me for a long time... :)

Palt coma

Too tired and full to write. I am experiencing what they call “palt coma”. I had PitePalt for dinner with Lou, Anna, Vanessa and Marcus. It was a lovely evening…a ton of laughs! I can really be myself around them, which is the best feeling in the world! Unfortunately now we all feel like poo! But, we had to have a palt night becuase it is a famous dish from Piteå...we will endure the pain!

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pitepalt

Tomorrow Daniel and I are recording Hittade! I met with my sound engineer “crew” this afternoon to talk through the process. They are really nice guys and I think it will be fun to work with them. More tomorrow...when I don't have lumps of flour and potatoe in my stomach!!

Jammin'

This morning I had a funny email in my inbox. It was from Sven-Åke, who is in charge of the music classes at Medbörgarskolan. Remember how I was hired there when I first got here to create the Junk Jammers class? Well, we’ve had a hard time getting enough people signed up because of the cost. So, the email this morning said “get your butt down here, we have some news”.


Fortunately, I was planning on going into town anyway to pick up a package sent from mom and dad. The package was filled with food, or course! Pumpkin pie mix, goldfish crackers, peanut butter, a smushed/exploded bag of Chex Mix, hot chocolate, tea bags, and Easy-Mac (although I don’t have a microwave, so I have no idea what I’m going to do with that! It’ll just be regular-amount-of-preparation-Mac!)

When I stopped in to Medbörgarskolan we first had coffee, of course. Then Sven-Åke told me that he figured out a way to offer the class FOR FREE!! I will still get paid (a smaller amount, but it’s better than nothing), but the students won’t have to pay. We are going to start the course on February 1, and hopefully do about 6 sessions a week. Teaching + good people + paycheck = happy me.

Hejdå helg

The theme of my life lately is; where is the time going!? Hejdå helg means ‘goodbye weekend’…I can’t believe it’s Sunday night. I have no idea where the weekend went...

Yesterday didn’t really feel like a Saturday because I spent more time at school that I usually do on the weekdays! The school was hosting an Open House for perspective students, and there was more activity in the halls than I have seen since I got here. I was asked to play for a few events during the day. The first two mini concerts were held in the small auditorium, called ‘Aula’. Five current students played solos for those interested in the music program. Not many people showed up for our presentations, so it was a low stress situation.

Martina came to hear me play (what a good friend) and afterward I went on a walk around town with her, Sarah, and Sofia. I had been at school since 10am, so I really wanted to get out of the building. It seems that people get together to go on walks a lot here, which is one of things I like about this place! We walked along the water, and through a part of town that I’ve never seen (haha, that’s so sad since it’s so small!)

I had to get back to school to practice, and prepare for another performance at 5pm. I was to play for the cocktail hour (in this case, half an hour) for a dinner in honor of a man who donated money to our media department for documentaries. So, I wheeled a marimba and xylophone into the lobby area of the Acusticum, and played some relaxing music along with one xylophone rag (to get the crowd in a good mood!). It was actually a fun little gig! Plus, I got a free meal out of it…which will suffice for a paycheck in my book any day!

I didn’t really have time to relax or go home because I had to go straight to Kåren…my barlåg (bartending team) was scheduled to work. The night was themed as a ‘Lounge’, and we didn’t expect many people to show up…but we still had to be there early. We were open from 8pm-2am. A total of about 30 people showed up, and everyone just sat around and played board games. Luckily, we didn’t have to do much and got to just hang around with our friends. I played a Swedish board game where you had to try and get your partner to guess the word on the card. Except, I couldn’t read the cards! We had a lot of laughs trying to get each other to say the right thing. Then, the whole group did a few rounds totally in English, and it was hysterical!

We were exhausted when we finally closed at 2 in the morning. The time went by slowly since there wasn't much activity. Thankfully cleaning up didn’t take too long and since it had been snowing all evening the walk home was quite lovely. We ran into Lou and Anna who had gone out in town, which was perfect timing…and they were really entertaining!

Artsy pics by Martina on the walk home at 2:30am...

 

Running into Anna and Lou

Today I slept in longer than I have in a few weeks. Usually this makes a person feel good and rested, but it just made me feel gross! The weather was horrible, grey and dark. Then it got so dark so early I felt that I wasted my whole day! I got some work done, planned for the upcoming weeks accomplished, went on a walk with Anna, and had Swedish class. I didn’t have a chance (or the motivation to get my butt in gear) to practice, which stinks! I’ll just have to wake up early tomorrow…

Although today was a bit of a waste, the evening was nice! Anna had Lou and me over for some non-alcoholic glögg and gingerbread cookies. YUM! As always, I don’t know what I would do without my Swedish “mom” and British au pair!

I am so anxious and excited about the next few weeks…recording in 3 days…Stockholm in 5 days...Paris in 10 days…home in 23 days...and so much to do (both work and for fun!) in between. I seriously have no idea where the time is going!

What day is it?!

The last two days have been a whirlwind! I can’t believe time that time is going by so quickly…I only have 2 weeks left in Piteå (and a couple weeks in Stockholm and Paris!) before going back to the States for Christmas!

Yesterday began with a practice session, followed by a dance class that I accompanied. Niether the teacher nor the students had ever worked with a live drummer, so it was really rewarding to see how positively they responded! I could see that they were excited to be dancing to a new kind of music/time keeper. It was great for me to feel like I had creative freedom, and I was happy with the different grooves and sounds that I came up with. The teacher, also named Maria, wants to hire me on a regular basis!

Then, I changed to educator mode and met with 6 composing students to teach them more abou percussion instruments, and how to write for them. They are putting on a concert that I am playing for in February, so they volunteered me to teach them about percussion (haha). I wish some one was video taping me…it's common knowledge that composers tend to be quiet…but Swedish composers are even more shy! I was trying my hardest to be upbeat, but at times I swear I heard crickets! Phil (the American) laughed a lot because he could tell that I was frustrated that no one was laughing at my jokes. And, we all know that I’m pretty darn funny.

After a fun filled day at school, I came back to my apartment to prepare for an even more fun evening. Louise was staying the night (she had today off), and we planned to make a big dinner then go out for a drink in Piteå. That’s right…we wanted to brave the cold to see if people actually hang out on the weeknights.

Anna and Martina also came over dinner, which made it my first official dinner party! We had roasted chicken, veggies, and cous cous. Everyone needs a best friend au pair. Seriously! I had a great time hanging out with these girls; it was probably one of my favorite nights!

My cute kitchen and pretty friends!

Lou and Anna (and the butter. which is seriously the best butter in the world...plus it's "light"!)

Me and Martina...attempt 1

Attempt 2

Attempt 3...this will have to do! haha

After dinner, Louise and I did exactly what we had intended…trekked into town to see if any pubs were open. We waltzed into a place called Kalles and were happy to see about 10 others there. The special of the night was Coors Light for 29 Kroner, which is actually quite a deal in Sweden (that is about $4, but a beer is usually about 50 Kroner). The bartender asked us if we wanted glasses, and I replied “I’m American, we drink out of the bottle”…I’m such a classy lady!

We took a seat and tried to look as friendly as possible. Everyone glanced in our direction, because we are not afraid to speak loudly and laugh! The only person that dared to talk to us was a drunken old man, who had had a stroke. He sat down with us, and at first it we thought he was nice, and it was interesting to try and talk with him (in broken Swedish and English) but then he kept touching Lou (who was sitting on his “good/working” side…I lucked out). It got to the point where it was uncomfortable, so we excused ourselves. I felt bad, but that behavior is just inappropriate no matter what country you are in!

Around 11pm we decided to leave and see if the hotel bar was “hopping”. It wasn’t. In fact, it closed at 11pm. So, we decided that we “came/saw/conquered” the Piteå weekday nightlife, and walked home. It was freezing, and the ground is still covered with snow and ice…Lou slipped and fell twice…and I laughed really hard (sorry for telling everyone, Lou…but it was hysterical! Don’t wear those boots anymore!)

It was nice that Lou stayed the night. I decided that I need to have a roommate in the next place I live. It’s just nice having someone to chat with, eat breakfast with, and get advice from!

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Today was eventful as well! We went to the Red Cross store this morning (they know us by name) because I needed to get some winter gear. We’re hoping to go sledding this week, and there is a ski trip on Dec. 5 (no, I will NOT fall and hurt myself!). I picked up some huge snow pants and a thick waterproof coat…and, I only spent $20!

After the errand filled morning, we went to a concert at school. Anna was singing with all of the first year musicians majoring in performance. It was wonderful to hear her! I love having talented friends!

I also did a lot of teaching today since Daniel is in the States. I really miss having private students (and teaching classes…having the composer’s forum yesterday made me miss teaching percussion methods at Eastman! Except, my students then actually laughed at my jokes…haha). I hope that I get to do more teaching here after Christmas It's a really good experiece and the students seem to be responsive to my ideas! Plus, I have to be really creative with how I explain things to make sure that the language is clear and articulate.

I really can’t believe that it’s already November 13. I feel like it was just yesterday that I almost teared up when I got off the plane in Stockholm and saw Anders! I wonder how emotional I’ll get when I get off the plane in Cincinnat in LESS THAN A MONTH!

ä å ö

I probably shouldn't post this, but I am going to anyway…Disclaimer: the following video contains American swear words. Don't worry dad, even if they don't mean anything in Swedish I don't use them when I'm practicing the language. :)

I found this video posted by the Hairy Swede:  http://welcometosweden.blogspot.com/  This blog is really entertaining. I started following it over the summer before I moved here. There are a few entries about what to expect as a ‘newbie’ that were really helpful. It’s much more insightful and comical that my daily anecdotes!

I watched this video right when I got back from my Swedish class this evening. Tonight we began applying indefinite and definite forms (both singular and plural) of En and Ett words. Just like the guy in the video says, there are no grammar rules! You just have to know it! It’s so silly! Why did I pick a country with such a hard language?!

So, if you’re looking for a good laugh, and won’t be offended by some American profanity…Enjoy…

Neo

Today I completed my first paid gig! Woohoo! I subbed for Daniel in his group, Neo. Norrbotten Neo is a chamber group dedicated to play contemporary works. Everyone in the group is an incredible musician and friendly too :) Check them out: http://www.norrbottenneo.com/

Daniel is in the USA with Anders and Rolf for a tour with GPN (Global Percussion Network), and then for PASIC (Percussive Arts Society International Convention). Needless to say, I’m jealous considering they are in Indianapolis…so close to home! However, I was thankful for the opportunity to play with this group.

I was nervous about the rehearsal today, just because really I wanted to put my best foot forward. Luckily, the music isn’t too complicated (as a lot of new music can be); we are doing a reading workshop of compositions by students from a specialized school outside of Piteå. We went through about 7 pieces today, and will continue with a few more for 2 hours tomorrow. I feel good about my performance, and hope tomorrow goes just as well!

I can’t describe what it feels like to be in a rehearsal when you can’t understand the conductor. It can be stressful at times, but always intriguing. I know my numbers, so when we start at a specific measure I can always tell where we are in the music. Thankfully, whenever the conductor had to address my part, he always switched to English. Maybe by June I’ll be able to follow an entire rehearsal…hopefully!

Keeping it real

I just had a bit of a laugh as I read through a few of my entries when I first arrived here. It feels like a long time ago, even though it’s been just over two months! So much has changed, and I sure have learned a lot.

In September, as I attempted to acclimate myself with Piteå, and Sweden in general, it seems as though I was obsessed with fitting in. For awhile it made me self conscious to speak differently, to dress differently, and to carry myself differently. These introverted tendencies and awkward feelings just make me laugh now. Among the many things I’ve learned here, I’ve realized that embracing one’s strengths and weaknesses is really all you can do. So…I talk and laugh loudly, wear gym shoes everywhere, say “hej” to people as they walk by, and take my backpack to the grocery store so I don’t have to buy a bag. Yes, I’m the American…and you can stop, say “hi” to me, and chat…or not.

I think this thought of embracing my “American” ways is making its way into my perspective in the musical world as well. Here in Sweden (and in the rest of Scandinavia), they have what is called “Jantelagen” (Jante Law), where no one is to think they are better than anyone else. There are even “10 Commandments”:

•Don't think you are somebody
•Don’t believe that your are as good as us
•Don't believe that you are smarter than us
•Don't believe that you are better than us
•Don't believe that you know more than us
•Don't believe that you are more than us
•Don't believe that you a good at anything
•Don't laugh at us
•Don't think that anybody cares for you
•Don't believe that you can teach us anything

Kind of harsh, right? As I understand it, these ideals were put into place for the survival of the community. If no one stands out and everyone works on the same level, all will survive. Although I do believe that it is important that you look after your neighbor, I think that there is nothing wrong with embracing your gifts and talents…and more importantly, what you are passionate about.

Under this “law”, if I were to have dinner at a friend’s house, instead of saying “This is a great meal!” I would say “this meal isn’t that bad”. If I were to compliment them, I would actually be indirectly degrading my own cooking abilities, and therefore putting myself in a subservient role. Translate this to the music world…not much encouragement floats around...that’s for sure.

Although this way of thinking is a bit dated, and it’s said that my generation is deviating from it….as a foreigner, it is still apparent. Maybe it’s because I don’t speak fluent Swedish, and that people are still timid to approach me, but it seems as though positive reinforcement is a bit taboo. When talking to musicians who have been to America, they agree. Although the competition is intense amongst musicians, in America we are generally supportive and encouraging of one another and this support is what keeps the artistic world alive and progressing.

As I continue my studies and adventures here, I’ve decided to embrace every little thing that makes me…me. (While continuing to try and grow and improve, of course!) I will compliment and praise my peers if I feel moved to do so, and hope that the positive energy inspires some sort of change, or at least a greater understanding of one another.

perfect winter day

As I stirred out of my enjoyable night’s sleep, I noticed a nice white glow coming from my windows. Could it be?!? I jumped up, ran to the windows, and peaked through my curtains (like the child that I am) and was so excited to see that the ground covered in white and huge flakes falling from the sky. It’s officially winter, and I finally feel like I’m truly living 200km south of the artic circle!!

view from my window this morning!

I was in such a good mood (which was nice, Friday was a very frustrating, wake up on the wrong side of the bed, kind of day! Hence…no entry. Everything that annoyed me was minimal, and I didn’t even see the point in writing about it) I wanted to take advantage of my insanely wonderful mood, so I scrubbed, and I mean SCRUBBED my apartment clean…and may have sang some Christmas songs and danced around once or twice :)

After the random cleaning/organizing spree, I headed up to school to practice…camera in hand…

Just outside of my building

cute houses

View from my practice room! It felt so cozy :)

Walk home...EVERYTHING was covered and beautiful

After practicing, I was excited to get back home. I have been looking forward to this evening all week. Since I’ve been complaining about the lack of pumpkin flavored food, Lou and I decided to take action. We saw pumpkins in the grocery store, and found a few recipes online. Tonight was the night to try to make a pumpkin pie from scratch!

Lou making the crust

I gutted the pumpkin slices, cleaned the seeds to roast, then we put the slices in the oven to soften

pumpkin puree. yum. yum.

mixing in the ingredients: puree, 3 eggs, sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and icecream. yes, icecream...it works instead of condensed milk!

baking!

doesn't look perfect, but it tasted fantastic!!! It was fun to enjoy it with Emma, Thomas, Lou and Anna...none of them had ever had it before! I was one happy American.

Now, it's time for bed..we had a huge dinner, pie, and glögg (a traditional Swedish wintery drink. It's kind of like a hot wine. Really good!!!) We played Skip-Bo (card game) and enjoyed each other's company in a beautiful, warm and cozy home. This was the PERFECT winter day...snow, music, good friends, and pie :)