practice vs rehearsal

I believe that words have power. Whether I’m teaching or coaching or practicing on my own, I try to use words to communicate my meaning clearly and positively and to evoke the most productive images possible. What does this have to do with ‘practice vs rehearsal?’ While on a break from orchestra rehearsal this weekContinue reading “practice vs rehearsal”

Wouter Kellerman, wow!

Sorry to be just posting links to what other flutists are doing rather than writing pithy, insightful posts all the time, but this guy just blows me away. He is a wonderful example of a complete musician, he has amazing technique, terrific creativity, and wonderfully engaging musicianship. Since I first heard about him earlier thisContinue reading “Wouter Kellerman, wow!”

Tanked Audition

I am still recovering from a badly botched audition that I took for a local orchestra. I thought I was relatively well prepared, though I hadn’t practiced that much. I admit, I was relying on previous experience and practice to get me through, but I was still shocked at what happened. It was like aliensContinue reading “Tanked Audition”

Christmas in August, and September, and ….

I’m planning the winter concert for the flute choir that I conduct and listening to CD after CD of Christmas music. You’d think this would be the easiest concert to plan, everyone loves Christmas, right? But who wants to rehearse it for three months!!! I’m trying to put together a program that is about halfContinue reading “Christmas in August, and September, and ….”

Practicing Piccolo

Argh! I have to play piccolo on the next concert and it has been so long since I’ve put any time in on the lovely little petite member of the flute family. When I was very young, I thought playing picc was the greatest thing on earth! When I first was asked what instrument IContinue reading “Practicing Piccolo”

Rehearsal Flutist Syndrome

Wow, I’ve been so busy these last couple of weeks, again, that I’m beginning to feel like a weekend warrior. You know, one of those people who go all out on weekends or during the once a week practice session for whatever sports league they play in while the rest of the week they sitContinue reading “Rehearsal Flutist Syndrome”

Flute Tip of the Week: Protect your flute from your cats

For those of you with cats, you probably already know that they do not always mix. Here are a few things you can do to safeguard your flute from your beloved pets. 1. Cats have a tendency to want to knock things off shelves, desks, or tables so if you must leave your flute outContinue reading “Flute Tip of the Week: Protect your flute from your cats”

Who Has Time to Practice?

Well, not too long ago I wrote about not making excuses for being too busy to post or practice, but what have I done now? Besides my 9-5, I’ve taken on a contract editing job that will keep me incredibly for the next month. Ah, the things we do for a little extra money! SoContinue reading “Who Has Time to Practice?”

Flute Overhaulin’

Wow! Just got my flute back after a long overdue overhaul and I cannot believe the difference! The sound is so resonant, the low notes come out without coaxing, and the runs really rip. It’s amazing! Finding good repair people can be really difficult, but I have had excellent luck sending mine to the USContinue reading “Flute Overhaulin’”