violinist & educator

Recently I’ve been listening to NPR while driving to various gigs. I especially look forward to their Jokes segment and the hour filled with random/interesting news about musicians and composers. Today I heard a short interview with Jennifer Higdon, a composer who has gained a huge amount of popularity within a very short time, and her notes about her piece, Blue Cathedral. I only managed to hear the first few minutes, but it was quite captivating how she used bell-like sounds and strings to indicate the light shining and reflecting through the crystal edifice in the sky. She also commented on the psychological journey from being introspective to being extroverted as one ages and goes through life with the purpose (?) or natural tendency to become associated with many people. Being introverted myself and having to coerce myself to meet new people as I expand my career, hearing that statement by Higdon made me want to listen to the piece and others written by her, perhaps for chamber ensemble. I am curious to hear how she translated all of the above into a cohesive work for orchestra.

Have you ever played with someone, be it a stand partner or a bandmate, a friend or a stranger, and for some reason, everything just clicks? During WAITIKI rehearsal last night, I was lucky to have that feeling and self-assurance as I was literally sightreading some tunes on the fiddle and keyboard. Usually, my first reaction to new things is always to panic, but having Randy and the rest of the gang there, I knew that I could be myself. It took me a few times playing with them (in various shows) to feel that way; less times than with most other people. Perhaps it’s because they’re seasoned professionals in their field, but I just feel like I can trust them musically and have faith that their support will help me grow and learn more about playing together. I wish all the people I encounter can be like that.

Upcoming show: WAITIKI at the Enormous Room (Central Square, MA). Visit WAITIKI.COM for details.