The pessimist complains about the wind. The optimist expects it to change. The leader adjusts the sails. - John Maxwell I look back on my relationship with classical music and the years it took me to get hooked: years of trumpet lessons with a mentor that I looked up to, years of attending Atlanta Symphony Orchestra performances and developing the curiosity to stay awake for an entire performance, years of opportunities of playing in ensembles and performing throughout the metro-Atlanta area and the pride my family had for my accomplishments. … [Read more...]
Empty Forest. Tree Falls. Was It Heard Or Felt?
Blog Post for ArtsJournal.com's "Lead or Follow" Discussion - "If a tree falls in a forest and no one is around to hear it, does it make a sound?" How would the City of ______ be damaged if the ______ Symphony Orchestra / Opera Company / Ballet Company / Theater Troop / Art Museum were to disappear tomorrow? How would the City of ______ be damaged if the all arts education programs were to disappear tomorrow? Recent data from the Americans for the Arts Economic Impact reports that there are $63.1 billion in total expenditures from arts … [Read more...]
I Have Something to Say
Over the past year, I've had several people encourage me to write a book. I always laugh. My third, eighth, and eleventh grade teachers all encouraged me to stick to the trumpet... and believe me, it wasn't because they thought I was a good trumpet player. However, after two years of planning and implementing a music program based on solid social values, I've learned a lot through the process and want to share my thoughts and findings. As the after school music program at St. Francis de Sales School continues under a new banner, I'm sure there … [Read more...]