One Breath at a Time


Before I leave town, one thing I often remember to do is to record Erik's practice sessions on video to 'carry " the melody with me. I have a ton of recording on my mac and iPhone this time to show my mother when I see her and also to help me feel my home when I am away. We happened to be working on a duet piece for a month or so. With me going in and out of town, I find myself regress each time I return home, in the mean time, Erik's playing improves. This piece was almost together. We made a quick recording of it and I am afraid that I would be terrible when I return in two weeks after not playing for the whole time I am away. My breath control is definitely challenged by the lack of daily practices.

I am very very fortunate to have an accompanist right at home who is interested and excited about playing new pieces. I think of my mother who encouraged me to take flute lessons when I was 13 or 14. She had no way of knowing that I would be reaping the benefit of her financial sacrifice and support that allowed me music experiences (I was already taking piano lessons when we added flute) over 30 yrs later. Many adults regret that they stopped taking music during the teen age years when other activities or academic pressure appear to diminish the value of music. Having had a brother who was quite musically gifted propelled me somewhat but my mother's continued interest and support for the less gifted of the two is worthy of recognition. Although, I never achieved anything in terms of placements in competitions or awards in my life with music, getting to play with my son is a prize far more valuable than ribbons and trophies. I am afraid that one day, I would not be good enough to play with this young accompanist who keeps getting better each month.

My pitch is often definitely not steady and some of you with perfect pitch may have to close your ears now and then but I decided to post this...

I will just have to get more serious with my practices and breathing exercises so that I can keep up with his black and white keys with my silver tube,,,,,,,one breath at a time.

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