RIP Patrick Swayze
I was fortunate enough to have met this amazing man. It was the summer of 1998 after my first year of college. My teacher then, dear Mr. Heifetz, had recommended that I attend his festival (Heifetz International Music Institute) which was located in Annapolis, MD at that time (now, it’s held somewhere in Vermont). As part of the curriculum, we had to take a series of courses that would help project our expression better through our music performances, such as public speaking, dance/movement, drama, and improvisation/freedom of expression. What I remember the most was the dance class as I believe I am a visual and physical person. The class was beautifully taught by Swayze’s wife, Lisa Nieme, who taught us the basic moves of ballet and baroque dance and introduced to us how music and dance can be integrated by bringing in guest artists (Patrick!!) to show us. It was a complete summer and I had learned so much in that short span of time. Here’s a picture of me with the Swayze couple. I will always remember their graciousness and gracefulness.
with Patrick and Lisa
