...Now What?

Six days before my final DMA recital, I watched my good friend and colleague perform his final recital. It was an excellent demonstration of artistry and the perfect exclamation point to his academic career. When asked afterward how he felt, he said, “Pretty much the same as usual.”

I chuckled at this, but it’s a statement I figured I’d soon be able to relate to. The following Sunday, I gave my self-prepared recital, complete with two memorized pieces, a world premiere by David Faleris with my dear friend Seth Lafler, and a Massachusetts premiere of a Jack Wilds piece I contributed to a few years ago. There was an epic mute drop and some notes I wanted back, but all in all, it was a product I could look back on with pride (I’ll share some soundbites when I get the final cut in a few weeks).

Sure enough, I would characterize my post-recital and soon-to-be post-degree feelings as “pretty much the same as usual.” Of course, I’m pleased to finish this three-year chapter of my life, but I’m also very aware of the work ahead. The DMA is a great thing, but it’s merely one ticket that can be used to continue the journey along this winding road. I cannot rely solely upon the degree to gain employment, nor have I ever thought that would be the case.

So what now, Doctor?

I cannot stop moving. If I’ve learned anything since completing my master's degree in 2015, it’s that if there isn’t something to work toward, my growth will stagnate. I love the seclusion and meditative progress made in the practice room, probably more than most, but it is only one part of the equation. Practicing perpetually without bringing those efforts to light doesn’t allow for proper realization.

Over the next year, I plan to commission more music to be written, give recitals in New England and around the United States, take auditions, and develop a studio of students. Ultimately, I want to return to the college classroom wherever possible, but in the meantime, I am in one of the best places in the US to “make it.” Amidst all this, I will be taking on my most significant role to date, which is that of fatherhood. Being a dad will add a dimension of complexity to my musical journey, but there’s nothing I could imagine being more excited about.

Figuring out how to practice… again.

This past year, I have asked several musicians I admire, “How do you go about your practice life?” The answers I got repeatedly centered around a commitment to fundamentals to a larger degree than I have been willing to invest in despite thinking I was doing enough. Moving forward, I plan to commit more fully to practicing songs, etudes, scales, and techniques while balancing the previously mentioned performing opportunities I look to create myself. Being out of school, I am once again my own teacher and boss, and I can curate a routine to ensure my progress continues. As I figure out what works for me, I plan to develop and share this routine on my website as an additional resource for those interested.

Let’s collaborate

If you’ve made it this far in the blog, and there’s an idea you have that I could help with, let’s make it happen! The beauty of my immediate future is I’m in the business of creating business. I’m happy to receive feedback or listen to ideas, so don’t be a stranger. Until next time!!