a thought or two

My viola has never been so calming and inspirational to me as it has in the last few days. Unfortunately, I haven't been able to play a single note in the last week and a half. I picked it up today and played all of my Bach from memory. I've nearly memorized Suite 1 and Suite 3. Yet, I can't play a single note of the second suite. The second suite is my absolute favorite, yet I have some sort of emotional block with it. I can't seem to even memorize two bars. I've decided that I want to conquer the 4th suite next. I've been using Bach as my exercise guide. My problems with the viola come mostly from all of the romantic shit I play. I get too aggressive and lose focus...so, it is Bach Bach Bach (and no, I'm not clucking like a chicken). There are quite a few modern pieces I would like to take a look at this year. I've decided I need some focus in my playing, so I am going to work towards a viola competition. I need one entire Bach Suite memorized, one concerto memorized (there are specifics), one modern work memorized, and a sonata. So far, I've tackled one of them. My next objective is to get that sonata under my belt. It doesn't have to be memorized so that is a load off my shoulders, but I still want to get that under my belt. I could pull out the sonata I've played for a hundred years, but I would prefer to do Shostakovich or Brahms....probably Shostakovich. Now the most difficult work will probably be the concerto since I'm going to do the Bartok. The last lesson I had on the piece didn't go so well, but definately gave me incentive to work harder. In addition, it has to be memorized! SHIT! I'm sure all of my focus will then go to that piece.

Singing is yet the other joy in my life! I've been really working hard with my voice and I've already looked a few vocal works. I was able to obtain some sheet music recently. Brahms is sounding pretty well. My German is getting much better! I've been practicing the words with out the melody....definately helps!

Unfortunately, I've been given some free time recently. My Mom is very ill and is hospitalized. So, I will remain up in Northern California for the next several weeks. I'm trying to hold up as best as I can, but times are rough and my adorable little nephew is keeping me grounded. Music has never felt so good to me at this very moment. I could get lost in it.