Today my hands were in band shape. Because of the Tchaik tambourine part and the 182 cymbal crashes I have in this program, my little fingers were pretty bruised and blistered today! Luckily we just had sectionals, individual practice time, a private lesson with Damien, and some free time to enjoy the lake, the sun, and the scenery.
Yes, you read that correctly…I’m playing 182 crashes for 5 different pieces (of the 15 or so pieces we have for this tour!) I’m not complaining, because I love the instrument, but my hands are pretty mad at me! They will be in shape within the next few days, but this morning it was painful to pick anything up! Aside from polishing my crashing skills, another upside to the massive amount of cymbal playing…is that there is no need to go to the gym when I’m lifting large metal plates all day!
Although we didn’t have full orchestra rehearsals today, we were all exhausted on the way back home. I really wanted to go into downtown Berlin (we are staying on the outskirts of the city, and I haven’t been able to really explore!), but it was really hard to gather people together to go with me. The percussion guys wanted to stay near the hotel, and I couldn’t find the girls that talked about going earlier today. It’s been hard to hang out with specific people because there is no way to contact each other. It’s a little frustrating, but I hope that once the tour starts it won’t be so much work!! I am slowly making friends, and figuring out who is cool…I’ve bonded a lot with the percussionists and two cellist (Maria from Denmark, and Anna from Estonia), and there is Leann, the American…but I still don’t feel like I can count on anyone for a good hang! :-( I miss Piteå!!!
After a long conversation with Arvid (I miss him so much!), I ended up hanging out in the lobby/bar of our hotel to watch the USA vs. Ghana soccer match. I got really into it, and soon there was a crowd watching with me. I’m sad we lost, but I think the rest of the spectators were happy!
Once again, it’s time for bed (and if you are wondering, I am paying 3 Euros every time I’m online…well, actually the young guy at the desk only charged me 2.50 tonight, but it’s still a lot! I’m so dependent on the internet!!!)
26.6.10
Midsommar and Tchaikovsky
Today is the Midsommar festival in Sweden. Arvid, along with everyone else I know in Sweden, has been celebrating all day by eating and drinking outside, and enjoying the 24 hour sunlight. There are a lot of Swedes here in Berlin for the orchestra gig as well, but our Midsommer fest only lasted about one hour tonight since we are all so exhausted from the week.
Rehearsals were a lot of fun today. The percussion section is becoming more of a unit, and everyone is starting to open up more. I’m starting to learn a lot more about each one of them, and the jokes and silly comments are coming more often…just like it should be amongst percussionists! Alexander, the mysterious Russian, is still quiet…but my made up sign language communication skills have vastly improved the last few days. I think he’d be a really cool guy if he could say what he wants. Everyday he is trying to say more and more, and he is a nice guy…he’s only one that always gets me a chair and holds the door for me. Russians may be scary, but at least they are chivalrous!
I played a lot more today, and even made Kristjan (the conductor) smile because of my tambourine action on Tchaikovsky’s ‘Dance of the Buffoons’. It is one of the big parts I have in the entire program, and I’m proud of myself for kicking butt! I have a huge blister on my hand now, though…battle wound no. 1 of the BYP.
We rehearsed until 8:00pm tonight, and then the bus was late. Needless to say, by the time we got back to the hotel I was starving and cranky! We tried to go out to eat in a big group, but it was too hard to keep track of everyone and make everyone happy. So, five of us went to a restaurant close by, then bought a beer and went to a park across the street to celebrate Midsommar! A lot of the orchestra members were hanging there, and it was nice to sit outside and relax. It’s definitely not that same as being in Sweden (mainly because it’s dark!), but it was lovely to spend some time chatting and relaxing. I guess I just have to stay in Sweden next summer…just so I can experience the true holiday :)
Rehearsals were a lot of fun today. The percussion section is becoming more of a unit, and everyone is starting to open up more. I’m starting to learn a lot more about each one of them, and the jokes and silly comments are coming more often…just like it should be amongst percussionists! Alexander, the mysterious Russian, is still quiet…but my made up sign language communication skills have vastly improved the last few days. I think he’d be a really cool guy if he could say what he wants. Everyday he is trying to say more and more, and he is a nice guy…he’s only one that always gets me a chair and holds the door for me. Russians may be scary, but at least they are chivalrous!
I played a lot more today, and even made Kristjan (the conductor) smile because of my tambourine action on Tchaikovsky’s ‘Dance of the Buffoons’. It is one of the big parts I have in the entire program, and I’m proud of myself for kicking butt! I have a huge blister on my hand now, though…battle wound no. 1 of the BYP.
We rehearsed until 8:00pm tonight, and then the bus was late. Needless to say, by the time we got back to the hotel I was starving and cranky! We tried to go out to eat in a big group, but it was too hard to keep track of everyone and make everyone happy. So, five of us went to a restaurant close by, then bought a beer and went to a park across the street to celebrate Midsommar! A lot of the orchestra members were hanging there, and it was nice to sit outside and relax. It’s definitely not that same as being in Sweden (mainly because it’s dark!), but it was lovely to spend some time chatting and relaxing. I guess I just have to stay in Sweden next summer…just so I can experience the true holiday :)
24.6.10
I don't know german
Baltic Youth Philharmonic June 21-July 10
Day One
I’ve been looking forward to this tour for such a long time! However, as I spent the last few days packing and preparing to move out of my apartment, touring around the Baltic is the last thing that I saw myself doing this week. It still doesn’t feel like the tour has begun yet, but tomorrow’s rehearsals will hopefully make the experience come to life.
I woke up super early this morning, in an over analytical “did I forget anything” mode. It was hard to figure out how to pack all my percussion stuff, computer, camera, and 3 weeks worth of clothes/concert dress…but I finally found a way that to do so in just 2 bags plus a cymbal bag...all very heavy bags! Aside from that accomplishment, I felt so bad because I barely got the rest of my stuff packed away. So, Arvid is going to have to pack/clean/move everything while I’m gone. He kept saying it’s ok, but I definitely owe him big time! Once everything was situated, he and I went into town to pick up a few last minute things, had lunch, and drove up to the airport in Luleå. Since I was so worried about being on time and not missing the flight (it’s weird not booking it yourself, I felt so disconnected), we got there 2 hours early….which in Luleå is about 1.5 hours too early! Arvid and I got to sit down and have a cup of coffee, before having to part ways. I was so sad to leave, 3 weeks is a long time!
The travel itself was super easy, no troubles at all, and 2 good naps :) when I arrived in Berlin I noticed a girl with a cello on my flight and asked her if she was going to the Baltic Orchestra. She was, and soon we both met Markus outside of the gate to take us and 5 other musicians to the hotel.
At the hotel we were given our room key, stipend, t-shirt, bag, and extra information. Then, we all gathered in the lobby at 8:30pm to walk to dinner. It seems as though a lot of the musicians know each other from last year. I had to suck it up and just approach people, which isn’t the most fun thing…but did end up meeting some nice new girls.
The best story of the night is of a really nice girl named Simone. She is a clarinetist from Luxemburg that studied at Miami University in Oxford, Ohio! (about 40 minutes north of my hometown!!) What are the odds?!?! We ended up chatting most of the night, she seems really cool.
Now it’s time for bed…tomorrow we actually start playing, YAY!
BYP Day 2
Good thing my roommate, Bettina (plays double bass), and I get along…because we have to sleep in a double bed! What better way to get to know someone?! She is from Germany and studied in Finland for a few years and is really nice and easy to talk to. We got up this morning with no problem, and I think we’ll get along fine for the next few weeks!
Breakfast was a mess, everyone went at the same time, but it was decent, and free. After the quick breakfast we were herded into vans and buses and drove about 40 minutes to our rehearsal space. When we got there, the percussionists were shown into the main space where tons of cases awaited us….full of all our equipment. Damien, our coach wasn’t there yet (on his way from NYC), so we just started unpacking everything and setting up. I accidentally took my usually leadership role, because no one knew what to do…so I made a few suggestions :) Luckily the guys are very chill, and have taken to my “American” personality just fine.
Damien soon arrived and said that we would be auditioning for what parts we would play on Rite of Spring, Sibelius No. 7, and a Nielsen piece. I was aware of this, but felt very under prepared….life has been getting in the way of some practice time. I tried to be calm and focused, but something weird happened when I walked into the audition room. All of a sudden I felt like I was in junior high again. I was confused about which part of the piece we were supposed to play, and I literally felt like the 10+ years of percussion education left me. I was feeling weirdly intimidated by the situation, even though I had no reason to feel that way. It was probably the worst playing I’ve done in the past 6 years, and I am thankful that he didn’t kick me out of the orchestra! When I left the room, I had to sit by myself for a few minutes to get a grip. I wasn’t upset necessarily, just mad that I let the situation get the best of me…I pretty much just psyched myself out. I really wanted to impress Damien, but all of a sudden felt small and way too feminine (welcome back to junior high!) Once I gave myself a little mental talk-down, I joined the rest of the guys to wait for the rest of the auditions to be done.
There are 6 percussionists total. Wictor and Johan both study/studied in Gothenburg; Daniel is French, but studied in Gothenburg and now lives in Oslo, Norway; Jussi is from Finland; and Alexander is Russian, speaks very little English and winks at me all the time. There isn’t a great percussion section energy yet, but I think that we will get there. They are all really nice and the jokes are started to be told…let the fun begin, soon, hopefully!
We had a short lunch at the rehearsal space, and then the full orchestra met. First we played through Rite. I’m playing crotales and crash cymbals. I was really hoping for the bass drum part, but like I said….audition stunk! It’s just nice to be apart of the group, and experience the music. We then read through a piece that was commissioned for the group…it’s very rhythmically complicated for the rest of the orchestra, but I just play a few things here and there…have to count my butt of still, so at least I’m alert. On Sibelius No. 7, the Russian kid is playing timpani. Music really is the universal language, because he can’t communicate with us, but he played the part really well!
Once we were all sweaty and stinky (the room was not air-conditioned) we were herded back onto the vans and buses. We went to the hotel quickly, changed, and had to get right back on the buses to go into the Berlin center to take a group photo. It was slightly annoying, but during the photo I met another American named Leann! She lives in Norway now, is from NYC, studied at Cleveland (another Ohio connection!) and at Temple. She is loud, funny, and cool…my type of girl! There is also another clarinetist (besides Simone) that went to CCM (Cincinnati Conservatory of Music) for his undergrad. Along with Damien’s studies at CIM (Cleveland)…that is 5 people with an Ohio connection in this Orchestra. HOW CRAZY IS THAT?!?!?
Once the picture was taken (or about 100 pictures takes) we…you guessed it…got back on the buses to head back to the hotel and have dinner. We were on our own, but given a per diem. We headed to the closest restaurant (we were so hungry!) and had a nice German meal….along with a beer ;) The conversations were really fun, and people are starting to open up.
Now that I’ve been fed and am exhausted…it’s time for a good night’s sleep…with Bettina.
BYP Day 3
Today was fun, but boring, organized, yet hectic, and eventful, but normal. Make sense?
It began with the percussionists and bassists taking public transpiration to the Berlin Radio House for sectionals. We had to take two trains, and no one told us the directions before blindly following the guide. It was nice to get to see more of the city, but a little nerve wracking in such a big group. I would be very, very lost without the guides and few German speaking colleagues! My Swedish knowledge does nothing for me here!
During sectionals we spent 3 hours working on Rite. I really wish I had the bass drum part! It was killing me just sitting there, watching the score and listening. I still can’t believe that I bombed the audition so bad. But, I can’t change the past and now, considering I only play a few bars for the whole piece, I had a lot of time to contemplate my actions. At least I nailed what I do play…my soft crashes felt good, consistent, and solid. It’s going to be an uphill battle (with myself) to feel good about my playing the next few weeks.
Lunch was fine, and much better food than yesterday. This time we ate at a proper cafeteria in the Radio House, and got to choose whatever we wanted…the poor rest of the orchestra had to eat at the campus with the really bad food! The orchestra came together in the afternoon, and we rehearsed Rite. I didn’t play one note. I did stay awake though, and I now know all of the percussion parts really well. Maybe one day I’ll actually get to play one of the good parts…
At the end of the rehearsal, one of the orchestra managers came up to me and said that all of the Americans (three of us, plus one guy from New Zealand), had to fill out extra paperwork and provide an additional passport photo for our visa into Russia. WHAT!? How annoying! The paperwork was a joke…no, I haven’t operated nuclear weapons, and do no carry any rare, life threatening diseases (to my knowledge…!) None of us had an extra passport photo on us, so they sent us alone with some money, onto the train to one of the central stations to get photos taken at one of those self-serve booths. The New Zealand guy lives in Berlin now, so he showed us the way…but it was still really annoying that we had to take an extra trip just to get this photo taken for paperwork that is a joke! Silly Russia!
We made the best of it, and Leann and I had fun chatting during the side trip…it’s fun to have another loud and fun American around. We even treated ourselves to Dunkin’ Donuts, because we felt like we deserved it :) hehe. When we finally returned to the hotel, everyone else was relaxed and ready to go out. We still hadn’t eaten dinner, so got a group together to find some food, beer, and a good place to watch the Germany vs. Ghana World Cup game.
We finally stumbled upon a great, slightly posh, but not very crowded outdoor space to eat, drink, and watch the game. I paid too much for a pasta dish, but did enjoy my beer. Thankfully, Germany won, and soon the streets were filled with drunk, screaming, proud Germans. Most of which were wearing the German flag as a cape or skirt (that’s illegal in the US, right?)
We just came back from the outing, some people are still partying, but I’m too poor to have too much fun. Plus, besides Leann, there aren’t many people I’ve bonded with. The percussionists are cool, but quiet. Putting too much effort into being overly social just does not sound too appealing right now!
Tomorrow’s schedule is similar, but I will be playing more…so that gives me something to look forward too!
BYP Day 4
I’m in a much better mood this evening after a full day of playing (not as much as I’m used to, but more than just a few notes!), some good conversations, cheap Italian pizza in Germany, and the best ice cream I’ve had while in Europe!
This morning was much more relaxed because we started rehearsals an hour later than we have the rest of the week. It was nice to sleep and take my time eating breakfast and having coffee (Scandinavia sure has changed me! I used to hate coffee!) It was just percussion sectionals again all morning. We rehearsed the piece commissioned for the orchestra that is really groovy and modern. I’m playing all the “toys”, so the part isn’t as involved, but it’s fun. I play a mean slide whistle :) I’ve enjoyed sectionals because Damien is an energetic coach and he has a ton of good ideas. It still kills me sometimes when I’m not playing the meatier parts, but I’ve learned to be very patient and just absorb the information this week.
Lunch was at the same cafeteria in the Radio House, just with the percussionists and the bassists. I’m so glad we are eating at this place and not with the rest of the orchestra! I asked Damien about his Broadway career in NYC, and it was cool to learn about how he got to where he is now. Moving to the city will always be apart of the future game plan!
The afternoon was a full orchestra rehearsal at full speed. We didn’t know what we were going to rehearse (we have about 15 pieces in the tour repertoire), so there were moments of panic within the percussion section. Plus, the Maestro is infamous for his fast tempos, so that, along with trying to fit 4 hours of rehearsal into 3 hours…let’s just say we were all just trying to keep up.
We got back to the hotel about 7:30pm, and two of the percussionists and I decided to go grab some dinner. They are both from Gothenburg, and really nice (and reserved, Swedish) guys. None of us know the area at all, so we decided to just start walking and find something. After a few blocks we found an Italian place with ourdoor seating and really cheap pizza. The food was actually really good, and our waitress was so nice! She even brought us some bread “on the house”! She was an older lady, and she seemed as though she wanted to make sure we were taken care of and nice and full! It’s crazy because most of the locals that I have been in contact with have been extremely nice…I don’t know why people think that Germans are unfriendly!
Anyway…during dinner Wictor, Johan and I chatted a lot about Sweden and music, of course. We also complained that the members of the orchestra aren’t very social and open…which was bugging me the last few days, so I’m glad that they feel the same way! It’s nice to feel like I’m starting to get to know the percussion guys more, and hopefully more people in the group with open up as the rehearsals/tours continue.
On our way back to the hotel we passed a huge ice cream place that was full of people. We decided to stop and have a treat, which was the best idea we’ve had in a long time! It was homemade and delicious! I have a cone with Chocolate and hazelnut. Yum yum! Plus, once again, the workers were really nice to us!
Tomorrow the schedule is (again) the same…but it will be the famous “Midsummer” holiday. Since there are so many Swedes, Finns, and Norwegians in the group we will probably go out and celebrate, which will be fun!
Day One
I’ve been looking forward to this tour for such a long time! However, as I spent the last few days packing and preparing to move out of my apartment, touring around the Baltic is the last thing that I saw myself doing this week. It still doesn’t feel like the tour has begun yet, but tomorrow’s rehearsals will hopefully make the experience come to life.
I woke up super early this morning, in an over analytical “did I forget anything” mode. It was hard to figure out how to pack all my percussion stuff, computer, camera, and 3 weeks worth of clothes/concert dress…but I finally found a way that to do so in just 2 bags plus a cymbal bag...all very heavy bags! Aside from that accomplishment, I felt so bad because I barely got the rest of my stuff packed away. So, Arvid is going to have to pack/clean/move everything while I’m gone. He kept saying it’s ok, but I definitely owe him big time! Once everything was situated, he and I went into town to pick up a few last minute things, had lunch, and drove up to the airport in Luleå. Since I was so worried about being on time and not missing the flight (it’s weird not booking it yourself, I felt so disconnected), we got there 2 hours early….which in Luleå is about 1.5 hours too early! Arvid and I got to sit down and have a cup of coffee, before having to part ways. I was so sad to leave, 3 weeks is a long time!
The travel itself was super easy, no troubles at all, and 2 good naps :) when I arrived in Berlin I noticed a girl with a cello on my flight and asked her if she was going to the Baltic Orchestra. She was, and soon we both met Markus outside of the gate to take us and 5 other musicians to the hotel.
At the hotel we were given our room key, stipend, t-shirt, bag, and extra information. Then, we all gathered in the lobby at 8:30pm to walk to dinner. It seems as though a lot of the musicians know each other from last year. I had to suck it up and just approach people, which isn’t the most fun thing…but did end up meeting some nice new girls.
The best story of the night is of a really nice girl named Simone. She is a clarinetist from Luxemburg that studied at Miami University in Oxford, Ohio! (about 40 minutes north of my hometown!!) What are the odds?!?! We ended up chatting most of the night, she seems really cool.
Now it’s time for bed…tomorrow we actually start playing, YAY!
BYP Day 2
Good thing my roommate, Bettina (plays double bass), and I get along…because we have to sleep in a double bed! What better way to get to know someone?! She is from Germany and studied in Finland for a few years and is really nice and easy to talk to. We got up this morning with no problem, and I think we’ll get along fine for the next few weeks!
Breakfast was a mess, everyone went at the same time, but it was decent, and free. After the quick breakfast we were herded into vans and buses and drove about 40 minutes to our rehearsal space. When we got there, the percussionists were shown into the main space where tons of cases awaited us….full of all our equipment. Damien, our coach wasn’t there yet (on his way from NYC), so we just started unpacking everything and setting up. I accidentally took my usually leadership role, because no one knew what to do…so I made a few suggestions :) Luckily the guys are very chill, and have taken to my “American” personality just fine.
Damien soon arrived and said that we would be auditioning for what parts we would play on Rite of Spring, Sibelius No. 7, and a Nielsen piece. I was aware of this, but felt very under prepared….life has been getting in the way of some practice time. I tried to be calm and focused, but something weird happened when I walked into the audition room. All of a sudden I felt like I was in junior high again. I was confused about which part of the piece we were supposed to play, and I literally felt like the 10+ years of percussion education left me. I was feeling weirdly intimidated by the situation, even though I had no reason to feel that way. It was probably the worst playing I’ve done in the past 6 years, and I am thankful that he didn’t kick me out of the orchestra! When I left the room, I had to sit by myself for a few minutes to get a grip. I wasn’t upset necessarily, just mad that I let the situation get the best of me…I pretty much just psyched myself out. I really wanted to impress Damien, but all of a sudden felt small and way too feminine (welcome back to junior high!) Once I gave myself a little mental talk-down, I joined the rest of the guys to wait for the rest of the auditions to be done.
There are 6 percussionists total. Wictor and Johan both study/studied in Gothenburg; Daniel is French, but studied in Gothenburg and now lives in Oslo, Norway; Jussi is from Finland; and Alexander is Russian, speaks very little English and winks at me all the time. There isn’t a great percussion section energy yet, but I think that we will get there. They are all really nice and the jokes are started to be told…let the fun begin, soon, hopefully!
We had a short lunch at the rehearsal space, and then the full orchestra met. First we played through Rite. I’m playing crotales and crash cymbals. I was really hoping for the bass drum part, but like I said….audition stunk! It’s just nice to be apart of the group, and experience the music. We then read through a piece that was commissioned for the group…it’s very rhythmically complicated for the rest of the orchestra, but I just play a few things here and there…have to count my butt of still, so at least I’m alert. On Sibelius No. 7, the Russian kid is playing timpani. Music really is the universal language, because he can’t communicate with us, but he played the part really well!
Once we were all sweaty and stinky (the room was not air-conditioned) we were herded back onto the vans and buses. We went to the hotel quickly, changed, and had to get right back on the buses to go into the Berlin center to take a group photo. It was slightly annoying, but during the photo I met another American named Leann! She lives in Norway now, is from NYC, studied at Cleveland (another Ohio connection!) and at Temple. She is loud, funny, and cool…my type of girl! There is also another clarinetist (besides Simone) that went to CCM (Cincinnati Conservatory of Music) for his undergrad. Along with Damien’s studies at CIM (Cleveland)…that is 5 people with an Ohio connection in this Orchestra. HOW CRAZY IS THAT?!?!?
Once the picture was taken (or about 100 pictures takes) we…you guessed it…got back on the buses to head back to the hotel and have dinner. We were on our own, but given a per diem. We headed to the closest restaurant (we were so hungry!) and had a nice German meal….along with a beer ;) The conversations were really fun, and people are starting to open up.
Now that I’ve been fed and am exhausted…it’s time for a good night’s sleep…with Bettina.
BYP Day 3
Today was fun, but boring, organized, yet hectic, and eventful, but normal. Make sense?
It began with the percussionists and bassists taking public transpiration to the Berlin Radio House for sectionals. We had to take two trains, and no one told us the directions before blindly following the guide. It was nice to get to see more of the city, but a little nerve wracking in such a big group. I would be very, very lost without the guides and few German speaking colleagues! My Swedish knowledge does nothing for me here!
During sectionals we spent 3 hours working on Rite. I really wish I had the bass drum part! It was killing me just sitting there, watching the score and listening. I still can’t believe that I bombed the audition so bad. But, I can’t change the past and now, considering I only play a few bars for the whole piece, I had a lot of time to contemplate my actions. At least I nailed what I do play…my soft crashes felt good, consistent, and solid. It’s going to be an uphill battle (with myself) to feel good about my playing the next few weeks.
Lunch was fine, and much better food than yesterday. This time we ate at a proper cafeteria in the Radio House, and got to choose whatever we wanted…the poor rest of the orchestra had to eat at the campus with the really bad food! The orchestra came together in the afternoon, and we rehearsed Rite. I didn’t play one note. I did stay awake though, and I now know all of the percussion parts really well. Maybe one day I’ll actually get to play one of the good parts…
At the end of the rehearsal, one of the orchestra managers came up to me and said that all of the Americans (three of us, plus one guy from New Zealand), had to fill out extra paperwork and provide an additional passport photo for our visa into Russia. WHAT!? How annoying! The paperwork was a joke…no, I haven’t operated nuclear weapons, and do no carry any rare, life threatening diseases (to my knowledge…!) None of us had an extra passport photo on us, so they sent us alone with some money, onto the train to one of the central stations to get photos taken at one of those self-serve booths. The New Zealand guy lives in Berlin now, so he showed us the way…but it was still really annoying that we had to take an extra trip just to get this photo taken for paperwork that is a joke! Silly Russia!
We made the best of it, and Leann and I had fun chatting during the side trip…it’s fun to have another loud and fun American around. We even treated ourselves to Dunkin’ Donuts, because we felt like we deserved it :) hehe. When we finally returned to the hotel, everyone else was relaxed and ready to go out. We still hadn’t eaten dinner, so got a group together to find some food, beer, and a good place to watch the Germany vs. Ghana World Cup game.
We finally stumbled upon a great, slightly posh, but not very crowded outdoor space to eat, drink, and watch the game. I paid too much for a pasta dish, but did enjoy my beer. Thankfully, Germany won, and soon the streets were filled with drunk, screaming, proud Germans. Most of which were wearing the German flag as a cape or skirt (that’s illegal in the US, right?)
We just came back from the outing, some people are still partying, but I’m too poor to have too much fun. Plus, besides Leann, there aren’t many people I’ve bonded with. The percussionists are cool, but quiet. Putting too much effort into being overly social just does not sound too appealing right now!
Tomorrow’s schedule is similar, but I will be playing more…so that gives me something to look forward too!
BYP Day 4
I’m in a much better mood this evening after a full day of playing (not as much as I’m used to, but more than just a few notes!), some good conversations, cheap Italian pizza in Germany, and the best ice cream I’ve had while in Europe!
This morning was much more relaxed because we started rehearsals an hour later than we have the rest of the week. It was nice to sleep and take my time eating breakfast and having coffee (Scandinavia sure has changed me! I used to hate coffee!) It was just percussion sectionals again all morning. We rehearsed the piece commissioned for the orchestra that is really groovy and modern. I’m playing all the “toys”, so the part isn’t as involved, but it’s fun. I play a mean slide whistle :) I’ve enjoyed sectionals because Damien is an energetic coach and he has a ton of good ideas. It still kills me sometimes when I’m not playing the meatier parts, but I’ve learned to be very patient and just absorb the information this week.
Lunch was at the same cafeteria in the Radio House, just with the percussionists and the bassists. I’m so glad we are eating at this place and not with the rest of the orchestra! I asked Damien about his Broadway career in NYC, and it was cool to learn about how he got to where he is now. Moving to the city will always be apart of the future game plan!
The afternoon was a full orchestra rehearsal at full speed. We didn’t know what we were going to rehearse (we have about 15 pieces in the tour repertoire), so there were moments of panic within the percussion section. Plus, the Maestro is infamous for his fast tempos, so that, along with trying to fit 4 hours of rehearsal into 3 hours…let’s just say we were all just trying to keep up.
We got back to the hotel about 7:30pm, and two of the percussionists and I decided to go grab some dinner. They are both from Gothenburg, and really nice (and reserved, Swedish) guys. None of us know the area at all, so we decided to just start walking and find something. After a few blocks we found an Italian place with ourdoor seating and really cheap pizza. The food was actually really good, and our waitress was so nice! She even brought us some bread “on the house”! She was an older lady, and she seemed as though she wanted to make sure we were taken care of and nice and full! It’s crazy because most of the locals that I have been in contact with have been extremely nice…I don’t know why people think that Germans are unfriendly!
Anyway…during dinner Wictor, Johan and I chatted a lot about Sweden and music, of course. We also complained that the members of the orchestra aren’t very social and open…which was bugging me the last few days, so I’m glad that they feel the same way! It’s nice to feel like I’m starting to get to know the percussion guys more, and hopefully more people in the group with open up as the rehearsals/tours continue.
On our way back to the hotel we passed a huge ice cream place that was full of people. We decided to stop and have a treat, which was the best idea we’ve had in a long time! It was homemade and delicious! I have a cone with Chocolate and hazelnut. Yum yum! Plus, once again, the workers were really nice to us!
Tomorrow the schedule is (again) the same…but it will be the famous “Midsummer” holiday. Since there are so many Swedes, Finns, and Norwegians in the group we will probably go out and celebrate, which will be fun!
19.6.10
The big 'Next Year' update
I have a lot of entries to post and pictures to share about random events that have happened the past few weeks, but first I need to write about my plans for the fall. The past two weeks have been slightly stressful, filled with mile long to-do lists, unanswered questions, and meetings that just lead to other meetings. However, it’s now Saturday…two days before I leave for practically the entire summer (orchestra tour and a visit home), and I feel really good about where life is at the moment.
First, I need to say that…I am definitely staying in Piteå next year!!! There will be two new Masters Students here (one from Texas and one from Australia), and I know this will be a great chance to collaborate and continue to build a career. Plus, I get to continue my work with Anders, travel, and make connections on this side of the pond. I know that if I would move back to the States now, I wouldn’t have this kind of opportunity ever again. So, even though my exact means of income for the next year is unknown…I’m confident that one of my endeavors with work out! Plus…there’s the whole “I’m dating a Swede thing”... (we found an amazing apartment that I will write about later!) :-)
So…let’s start explaining what’s been happening in my professional life…
As you know, last March I applied for a new Doctorate program created by the Swedish government. Piteå was given two positions, and each candidate was asked to send in a proposal of study (no specified guidelines). I sent in my application and waited patiently (well, sometimes) for the answer. To make a very long story short, I did no make it into the program. But…I really do see it as a blessing in disguise. I was bummed at first (of course), but not really upset enough to make me think that this would have been the right path for me. The process of applying was very frustrating and unorganized, so I felt that the program will probably be the same. Plus, it is a four year commitment….and wow…that’s a long time! I did let the committee know that I was disappointed in the application process because it caused so many headaches and the communication was so minimal.
So, since I just can’t keep my mouth shut, I met with the head of the committee to discuss my application and my complaints on Monday. I requested a formal review of my application, and to my delight…he praised it. He said that it was very clear and well-written, and that musically the committee did not doubt my talent and dedication to music for a second. This made me very happy. However, they felt that my project was too focused on pedagogical research, which was not the aim for the program. And that’s it. Seriously. That’s the only reason they didn’t chose me. I left the meeting feeling good about how I represented myself and glad that I voiced my opinion regarding the committee’s decisions.
At the end of the meeting, he gave me a few ideas about how to get funding for my doctorate proposal from other Swedish research foundations. This led to a meeting on Wednesday with Micke (advisor, and great help throughout this process…and this year) and a music pedagogy professor and former Dean of the school. We discussed my proposal and options. Nothing concrete came from this discussion, I was just reassured that my idea was “really great and innovative”. They want me to go through with my studies, but no one can give me a step-by-step way to do so. He said he would discuss it with the head of the educational department to see if I can get some funding and support. But, since it’s practically summer, I doubt anything can happen. I may be able to find something for the second semester though…we’ll see…
My final meeting this week was to discuss the school hiring me as a teacher (with more than the one student, and hopefully a percussion ensemble class), a dance department accompanist (a consistant schedule, not just randomly like I did this year), and as an administrator (composing documents in English, helping with the international students, etc...). I was talking with the head of the whole music department and she was optimistic about all of these jobs. However, the entire administration at school is practically imploding, and they won’t know how it will be structured until August…so I won’t know anything until August. Brilliant.
My last idea to build my career revolves around a duo that I’m starting with my good friend, and amazing classical vocalist, Margret. I will explain the specifics of the duo in a later entry, once we get more established…but I will say that I have a lot of confidence in this collaboration! Our repertoire is unique, and we will both be done with our studies… willing, able, and excited to put a lot of energy into playing, planning, creating, networking, and all the fun stuff that goes along with a performance career! I can’t wait to see what happens!
The creation of this duo (and the million other ideas floating around in my head), has lead me to contact the Swedish government about starting a non-profit organization. It may sound crazy, but if I am allowed to start it, it will create a lot of opportunities to perform, teach, travel, and collaborate with a lot of friends (because most of my friends are amazing musicians!) The idea is to start an organization that helps “create performance and educational opportunities for young musicians and chamber ensembles that focus on crossing cultural boundaries”. I would help groups (and if I can, groups that I am in) apply for grants and organize travel, concerts, seminars, etc… Since I worked at the Arts and Cultural Council for Greater Rochester, I know a lot about grant writing and the inner workings of a non-profit. If the government approves me, I think this could be a great new, lasting career move!
So, I think that about sums up my professional goals for the next year. Out of the various ideas, I know that some sort of financial stability must arise. Right?! Both Arvid and I have been working very hard the past two weeks on getting everything organized before I leave for Berlin on Monday. Thankfully, yesterday we both finally felt more relaxed and optimistic that this will logistically work out!
Now I feel like I can look forward to what is next this summer….three weeks with the Baltic Youth Philharmonic, three weeks at home in Ohio with Mom, Dad, friends, family, and Arvid, one more week with the orchestra, and some relaxation at Anders summer home in Goteland…by then it will be mid-August and time to move into the new apartment and get all of my ideas truly happening!
First, I need to say that…I am definitely staying in Piteå next year!!! There will be two new Masters Students here (one from Texas and one from Australia), and I know this will be a great chance to collaborate and continue to build a career. Plus, I get to continue my work with Anders, travel, and make connections on this side of the pond. I know that if I would move back to the States now, I wouldn’t have this kind of opportunity ever again. So, even though my exact means of income for the next year is unknown…I’m confident that one of my endeavors with work out! Plus…there’s the whole “I’m dating a Swede thing”... (we found an amazing apartment that I will write about later!) :-)
So…let’s start explaining what’s been happening in my professional life…
As you know, last March I applied for a new Doctorate program created by the Swedish government. Piteå was given two positions, and each candidate was asked to send in a proposal of study (no specified guidelines). I sent in my application and waited patiently (well, sometimes) for the answer. To make a very long story short, I did no make it into the program. But…I really do see it as a blessing in disguise. I was bummed at first (of course), but not really upset enough to make me think that this would have been the right path for me. The process of applying was very frustrating and unorganized, so I felt that the program will probably be the same. Plus, it is a four year commitment….and wow…that’s a long time! I did let the committee know that I was disappointed in the application process because it caused so many headaches and the communication was so minimal.
So, since I just can’t keep my mouth shut, I met with the head of the committee to discuss my application and my complaints on Monday. I requested a formal review of my application, and to my delight…he praised it. He said that it was very clear and well-written, and that musically the committee did not doubt my talent and dedication to music for a second. This made me very happy. However, they felt that my project was too focused on pedagogical research, which was not the aim for the program. And that’s it. Seriously. That’s the only reason they didn’t chose me. I left the meeting feeling good about how I represented myself and glad that I voiced my opinion regarding the committee’s decisions.
At the end of the meeting, he gave me a few ideas about how to get funding for my doctorate proposal from other Swedish research foundations. This led to a meeting on Wednesday with Micke (advisor, and great help throughout this process…and this year) and a music pedagogy professor and former Dean of the school. We discussed my proposal and options. Nothing concrete came from this discussion, I was just reassured that my idea was “really great and innovative”. They want me to go through with my studies, but no one can give me a step-by-step way to do so. He said he would discuss it with the head of the educational department to see if I can get some funding and support. But, since it’s practically summer, I doubt anything can happen. I may be able to find something for the second semester though…we’ll see…
My final meeting this week was to discuss the school hiring me as a teacher (with more than the one student, and hopefully a percussion ensemble class), a dance department accompanist (a consistant schedule, not just randomly like I did this year), and as an administrator (composing documents in English, helping with the international students, etc...). I was talking with the head of the whole music department and she was optimistic about all of these jobs. However, the entire administration at school is practically imploding, and they won’t know how it will be structured until August…so I won’t know anything until August. Brilliant.
My last idea to build my career revolves around a duo that I’m starting with my good friend, and amazing classical vocalist, Margret. I will explain the specifics of the duo in a later entry, once we get more established…but I will say that I have a lot of confidence in this collaboration! Our repertoire is unique, and we will both be done with our studies… willing, able, and excited to put a lot of energy into playing, planning, creating, networking, and all the fun stuff that goes along with a performance career! I can’t wait to see what happens!
The creation of this duo (and the million other ideas floating around in my head), has lead me to contact the Swedish government about starting a non-profit organization. It may sound crazy, but if I am allowed to start it, it will create a lot of opportunities to perform, teach, travel, and collaborate with a lot of friends (because most of my friends are amazing musicians!) The idea is to start an organization that helps “create performance and educational opportunities for young musicians and chamber ensembles that focus on crossing cultural boundaries”. I would help groups (and if I can, groups that I am in) apply for grants and organize travel, concerts, seminars, etc… Since I worked at the Arts and Cultural Council for Greater Rochester, I know a lot about grant writing and the inner workings of a non-profit. If the government approves me, I think this could be a great new, lasting career move!
So, I think that about sums up my professional goals for the next year. Out of the various ideas, I know that some sort of financial stability must arise. Right?! Both Arvid and I have been working very hard the past two weeks on getting everything organized before I leave for Berlin on Monday. Thankfully, yesterday we both finally felt more relaxed and optimistic that this will logistically work out!
Now I feel like I can look forward to what is next this summer….three weeks with the Baltic Youth Philharmonic, three weeks at home in Ohio with Mom, Dad, friends, family, and Arvid, one more week with the orchestra, and some relaxation at Anders summer home in Goteland…by then it will be mid-August and time to move into the new apartment and get all of my ideas truly happening!
17.6.10
new youtube vids
Arvid helped me get these videos up (finally!!!) They are from my concert on March 2, 2010. We have a few more videos to format, but these are my two favorites. I performed in the Black Box Theatre and tried to take classical percussion to a more "trendy" environment. It was so much fun! I hope to create more performances like it in the future (and maybe get paid to play one of these days!)
14.6.10
25th Bday
On June 5, I turned the big 2-5! I’ve never been one to make a big deal out of my birthday, but wanted to celebrate it in a special way. You can’t blame me…it’s my first birthday in a foreign country, and 25 is kind of a big one! Plus, it landed on a Saturday, which lends itself to many celebration opportunities!
BUT...I wasn’t allowed to plan anything. I tried. Many times. I knew Anna and Arvid had it covered, but they eventually convinced me that nothing was going on. I was getting frustrated (because I hate not knowing what is happening!) But, of course, letting them plan everything was worth it...I had such a fantastic day!
The day began with Arvid calmly saying “Happy Birthday” and telling me that we could get a little work done, then go into town for a fika. Grand. I didn’t want to get my hopes up that we would do something fun, so I tried my hardest to ‘go with the flow’! He made me a crappy breakfast and said that his friend Victor may stop over because he was on his way to Ikea in Haparanda. I got a shower and put my PJs back on because I was bored. Then, Anna knocked on the door and came in for coffee; she had a jar of Nutella in her hand, which did put a smile on my face. Then Victor came by and we sat there for a bit chatting. They both left, and a few minutes later Arvid told me to get dressed to go into town.
Then I started to get excited. I could tell that something fun was going to happen! He coached me on what to wear…‘something you can be outside in’…and as we were heading out the door, he put a scarf around my eyes to blindfold me!! It was scary! But, I was too excited to care. He led me downstairs and to the parking lot. After a lot of giggling and ramming into a door, I finally made it into a car. The car took off and no one would talk to me!!!! I kept asking questions and laughing, but they were silent. After 5 minutes, I actually felt nervous! What was happening?!
When the car stopped, they guided me down a path a few feet. They removed the blindfold and I was facing a beautiful beach! I turned around to see Arvid, Anna, and Victor (and soon Mira, Johann, Elias, and Sebastian joined us)! We were at the Pite Havsbad, a big resort type of place. We spent the whole day playing on the beach and bbq-ing a yummy meal!
We left the bar earlier than most, went to Max for a burger (haha, what a typical night in Piteå), and went home! Victor stayed over (yay, sleepover!) and we had a very chill Sunday….watched movies, took a walk, had pizza with some friends. The boys even cleaned their cars once they had the energy! It was a great weekend…and one of the best parts is that all I had to do was show up :-) Thanks for Arvid for thinking of everything and Anna for helping him with all the details! I have such amazing friends here!
BUT...I wasn’t allowed to plan anything. I tried. Many times. I knew Anna and Arvid had it covered, but they eventually convinced me that nothing was going on. I was getting frustrated (because I hate not knowing what is happening!) But, of course, letting them plan everything was worth it...I had such a fantastic day!
The day began with Arvid calmly saying “Happy Birthday” and telling me that we could get a little work done, then go into town for a fika. Grand. I didn’t want to get my hopes up that we would do something fun, so I tried my hardest to ‘go with the flow’! He made me a crappy breakfast and said that his friend Victor may stop over because he was on his way to Ikea in Haparanda. I got a shower and put my PJs back on because I was bored. Then, Anna knocked on the door and came in for coffee; she had a jar of Nutella in her hand, which did put a smile on my face. Then Victor came by and we sat there for a bit chatting. They both left, and a few minutes later Arvid told me to get dressed to go into town.
Then I started to get excited. I could tell that something fun was going to happen! He coached me on what to wear…‘something you can be outside in’…and as we were heading out the door, he put a scarf around my eyes to blindfold me!! It was scary! But, I was too excited to care. He led me downstairs and to the parking lot. After a lot of giggling and ramming into a door, I finally made it into a car. The car took off and no one would talk to me!!!! I kept asking questions and laughing, but they were silent. After 5 minutes, I actually felt nervous! What was happening?!
When the car stopped, they guided me down a path a few feet. They removed the blindfold and I was facing a beautiful beach! I turned around to see Arvid, Anna, and Victor (and soon Mira, Johann, Elias, and Sebastian joined us)! We were at the Pite Havsbad, a big resort type of place. We spent the whole day playing on the beach and bbq-ing a yummy meal!
What I saw when they took the blindfold off!
Arvid laughing! (probably at my expense! they had me fooled!)
heading out to the beach to play "Cube" (an old Viking game very popular in Sweden...it reminds me of cornhole!)
The sky was amazing!
Action shot!
Anna taking a walk
It eventually started to rain, so we had to move the bbq to a shelter. No worries though! still a fun time, and some great food!
After an exhausting day, we went home. I was instructed to nap and take a shower. I followed along flawlessly (especially the napping part), and got dressed to go over to Anna’s for some drinks. She had a lovely party prepared with friends and food (what more can a girl ask for?!) We stayed there for a few hours, and then took a cab to Challenge. It was such a fun night!
Party at Anna's!
I like presents!
People at Anna's enjoying the treats and conversations!
We left the bar earlier than most, went to Max for a burger (haha, what a typical night in Piteå), and went home! Victor stayed over (yay, sleepover!) and we had a very chill Sunday….watched movies, took a walk, had pizza with some friends. The boys even cleaned their cars once they had the energy! It was a great weekend…and one of the best parts is that all I had to do was show up :-) Thanks for Arvid for thinking of everything and Anna for helping him with all the details! I have such amazing friends here!
13.6.10
First Fish
One weekend this month was spent at Arvid's family's summer house. (The same place that we spent Easter...but it looks much different without all the ice and snow!) I thought the plan was to just spend Saturday with his parents...good company and some good food. I didn't realize I'd be responsible for catching the food!
After a lovely afternoon of relaxing and taking a long walk though the woods with Arvid's mom, I was informed that we would be going fishing to catch a fish for dinner! A "put and take" lake close by and they said it was about time that I learn. At this lake you just pay the owners, then fish for your dinner and take it home. The amount of fish in that area of the lake is regulated, so it's pretty easy to get one.
There was still a little snow on the ground! in MAY!!
Arvid gets my fishing pole ready
After a few tries, and a few foul words later...I got one! I didn't realize that it wouldn't die right away and freaked out a little when Arvid's dad had to beat it. They said I handled it like any 6 year old would. :)
Arvid's mom handed me my catch....needless to say, I wasn't ready for it!
Arvid caught one too! he's kinda good at it!
mine was bigger!
what a team!
Time to prepare our fresh catch!
Arvid and his dad BBQin' dinner
mmmmmmmmm
After dinner we played Cube, an old Viking game (the outdoor game equivalent to Cornhole)
I like this place :-)
Prom in Piteå
I've taken another hiatus from blogging, so I'm going to catch up in a hurry! The past month has flown by; due to a crazy concert schedule, an effort to make plans for next year, and because of my personal life, of course! I’ve been taking a ton of pictures, so I’ll use them to tell the last chapter of my “Year in Sweden” story…which has turned into my “First Year in Sweden” story (but more on that later!!)
A few weekends ago, Arvid and I attended an event called a ‘sittning’ at the student union. Sittnings are formal dinners that are held periodically at universities. They are similar to just a formal dance hosted by a sorority or organization, but there is much more group involvement in the Swedish version.
This ‘Vårsittning” (spring formal) was hosted by my two friends Sanna and Karin, and it had a ‘prom’ theme! They asked me for some advice, and it was so much fun reminiscing about my high school prom experiences (haha, yes…that’s plural, because I went to prom 3 times…I was such a crazy kid!) I told them that the most important elements would be an overall theme (usually based on a popular song), a color pallet, a balloon arch, and a vote for king and queen. I think that they did a great job!
A few weekends ago, Arvid and I attended an event called a ‘sittning’ at the student union. Sittnings are formal dinners that are held periodically at universities. They are similar to just a formal dance hosted by a sorority or organization, but there is much more group involvement in the Swedish version.
This ‘Vårsittning” (spring formal) was hosted by my two friends Sanna and Karin, and it had a ‘prom’ theme! They asked me for some advice, and it was so much fun reminiscing about my high school prom experiences (haha, yes…that’s plural, because I went to prom 3 times…I was such a crazy kid!) I told them that the most important elements would be an overall theme (usually based on a popular song), a color pallet, a balloon arch, and a vote for king and queen. I think that they did a great job!
The entrance to Kåren decorated for the event
My date!
during dinner there is a lot of singing (very typical over here)...I was trying to keep up!
Arvid was nominated for prom king!!!
with Sarah and Astrid
Everyone having a good time!
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