I have started to send message to a couple of contacts to gauge their interest in having me perform online as a guest artist. So far, I have reached-out to five music teachers. Three have responded that there is some interest; one has actually extended an invitation. This is great news. So, I am busy preparing. In fact, this school is interested in my performing, plus adjudicating some of the student musicians, and offering a workshop, masterclass. So, I am very excited about this opportunity. I am trying to generate some work. My plan is to continue to reach-out to other music teachers, with the hope of generating even more performances.
(December 5). Followup posting to share the satisfaction feeling I experienced delivering performances, workshop and adjudication on December 3rd, arranged at St. Elizabeth CHS. Wow, what a treat, indeed. While I was a bit nervous a few days prior, dedicating time to preparation, I feel that I accomplished a great deal of success. In the morning, I performed, answered questions, mainly from Mrs. Mansell - which helped a great deal to keep things moving. This performance & Q / A first hour was followed by a workshop lesson, introducing students to graphic notation, sparking their creative spirit and inviting students to appreciate the sounds in their environment. I think this second hour went well. The afternoon session started similar to the am session: I performed and completed a Q & A segment in the first hour; then, the second hour, I was invited to listen to an original composition, and two vocalists perform. It was fantastic. I truly do miss teaching.
I think the performance part demonstrated and offered many tunes in a medley; lots of variety in styles. I actually prepared a listening guide with questions. I also prepared additional handouts for the graphic notation experience and some suggestions to listen to Epitaph for Moonlight by R. Murray Schafer. The preparation for this presentation was busy, but enjoyable. I think the most nervous part is using the virtual platform to perform, speak, teach, listen, etc. One is always concerned about the sound quality and if other technical difficulties occur with surprise.
I hope that I can do more of these presentations in the future.