Set apart and blessed...

Normally, I write this blog AFTER a rehearsal in order to reflect upon what went well or what needs changing. For the next few entries, I want to write IN ANTICIPATION of rehearsal in order to prepare us as we approach the music.

I have been immersed of late listening to the MASS OF THE CHILDREN~more specifically, I'm absolutely in love with the Sanctus and Benedictus. I was wondering if you all know what these words mean? Sanctus is, of course, talking about holiness...being so incredibly pure and without blot or stain. It also means "set apart".

We are not a society that particularly values things that are special and unique. Everything seems to be expendable. Used to be, we would "cherish" things that were old; respect things that had history and wisdom and WEAR. Things are just not "set apart" anymore for their uniqueness, their individuality and irreplaceable beauty. This beautiful musical portion of the mass celebrates that idea while offering praise to the God who creates all things unique.

Part of this section of the Mass also offers a benediction. I KNOW we don't do that in 2010. The best we can come up with is "Have a nice day!". Giving others a blessing when we leave them. I think the world would be a better place if we would offer a benediction to those we love. My kid sort of does that. She never goes to sleep at night without a "love you!". That is her version of a benediction. Why don't you think about all this as you ponder the meaning of the latin text during Wednesday's rehearsal:

Holy, Holy, Holy is the Lord
God of power and might
Heaven and earth are full of Your glory.
Hosanna in the highest!
Blessed is He who comes in the name of the Lord.
Hosanna in the highest!

HAPPY NEW YEAR! Time to get back to blogging. Took a much needed break from music teaching. Read a lot of books. One novel alone was 800+ pages. Enjoyed domestic chores. Played with my kids. Laughed with extended family. The stuff of real life. Oh, sure, my real life also includes the musical score and its interpretation. However, it is good every so often to back away from the score. To EXPERIENCE life in order to then INTERPRET life in music.

Now it is time to start another year. I think I have a better understanding of my own limitations and what I need to do to remain effective. Much of it is application of what Twyla Tharp calls analyzing your own skill set. Look at page 169. Here she reminds us to "See where you're strong and where you need dramatic improvement, and tackle those lagging skills first. It's harder than it sounds (most useful habits are), but it's the only way to improve".

So for all you students looking down at the "blank slate" of a new term, take this advice to heart. It is easy to keep doing what you do well; the real work comes with acknowledging where you are weak and working to improve THESE skills (whether they are piano or aural skills or music history). So, here is to 2010 and hard work! May they both be rewarding!