Happy November and season of thanks!
If Autumn is my favorite season, it’s because November is my favorite month. I love to watch the leaves changing color in a dramatic and colorful farewell as the trees drift off into their wintery slumber. I love the changing of the weather. Somehow, the cooler weather has a lovely calming effect and invites us to spend more time outside. It is a reminder that festive times are ahead.
For singers, this is often the busiest time of the year. Holiday parties (which sometimes equates to holiday gigs), choirs, Christmas concerts, and audition deadlines keep us busy and stressed out. Even though we are still sort of on lockdown, I find that there is still a lot to do. Many companies and competitions are doing things digitally, so audition deadlines are still looming. Performances are going on, so we still have to sing and learn and prepare. Isn’t that great?!
For PVA, moving to a digital medium has proven to be a blessing. Our students are growing and progressing and, most importantly, performing. Two of our students, Arya Kamath and Neer Jain, have each presented solo recitals this Autumn. They did such a beautiful job and I see and hear their growth and confidence in their lessons. We hope to continue offering virtual student recitals in the coming months as our sweet singers continue to grow. And we continue to accept new students both in-person and online.
On a personal note, I am excited to announce a new Youtube channel: Sewing Room Opera. As a teacher, I need to be an example to my students. If I encourage them to perform, then I need to be continually working on my skills and performing, also. Because COVID makes live performances nearly impossible, I decided to create my own performance space right in my sewing room. The channel is just me singing my favorite opera and musical theater pieces that I’ve learned over my 20+ years as a music professional. I miss the stage; I miss the energy of live theater; I miss performing; this is my solution.
So, I hope all of you come by the channel and check it out. Subscribe and leave a comment as I am always looking for ideas and ways to improve. If nothing else, just come by and enjoy some good music while you escape the cares of the world for a few minutes. I am grateful for your support.
One final note: Thank you to all of you for your support of Peak Vocal Academy. Thank you to the singers for trusting me with your instruments. I know how precious they are. Thank you to the parents for supporting your children in their musical pursuit. I am thankful that I get to share my gift and love of music with all of you.
Happy Thanksgiving!
Fran