In last month’s newsletter, I asked if anyone had done something new recently (Ed.)
I am amazed at the technology that is now common for me to use. Just today I was able to successfully send performance files using an iCloud link. This makes it possible for me to prerecord hymns on my phone for a singer to add her part for videos included in live-streamed Worship services.
Since a congregation is allowed to attend, we musicians were offered this option to prerecord. I’m also able to have the tech person record my organ pieces on the same equipment used for the live-stream. This provides a safe environment for me to serve as Organist. Since I’m Organist at two churches and a member at a third, I now spend Sunday mornings watching 3 services from home.
Something new Charley, my husband of 41 years, and I have learned is how to take care of an adopted stray dog. Bernie, an 81# black Lab/Rottweiler mix from “the Pound,” came into our lives in early September. Charley had recently retired, and our children recommended getting a dog as a retirement project. As the vet I first took him to commented, “You chose quite a project!” In other words, it took a bit of time and patience to find a vet who could treat him, diagnose and treat his ailments, and help him adjust to being a house dog instead of a stray.
Bernie is now a delight, having developed trust that I will feed him, (& not pet him while he’s lying down,) and that Charley a will walk him 3-4 times per day. Bernie has taught us that “Let sleeping dogs lie” is really true, and he has endless energy when outside. Our constant battle is to put all food away off the counter, since that big snout can reach everything. It’s a constant battle with bread, but otherwise he’s not too interested. By the way, Bernie lies by the piano when I play, and he enjoys the music we leave on when we have to go away without him.
So, giving someone/something a second chance, taking time for adjustment, developing trust, knowing when to correct or “go with the flow,” and enjoying music: these are life lessons we have learned from Bernie.
May you have a Blessed, resourceful, music-filled New Year, filled with opportunities to show love.
Sharon R. Peterson
Christ Church Choir members and organist Jay Peterson recorded this piece written by Richard Clemmitt. It was performed safely together using separate rooms, individual microphones, FM radios, and an audio mixing console.
Submitted by Richard Clemmitt
Phillip Kloeckner
These dates are included in this month’s newsletter so you have them handy for your reference. Please pass them along to your colleagues and students. (ed.)
On the third Sunday of every month, October through May, from 7 to 8 p.m. (CST), Phillip will explore a variety of topics from several levels of the AGO Certification Exams will be explored, with resources offered for additional practice and skill development. These are practical, skills-based workshops designed to launch or advance your preparations for portions of the SPC, CAGO, AAGO, and FAGO exams.
Though these began in October, it is not to late to join in these enriching workshops.
Conducted via video conferencing, participants may also choose to play for the class from their home/church pianos or organs as a means of engaging with the subjects more deeply.
Phillip Kloeckner, DMA, is artistic director of the Chicago International Organ Academy (cioa.global), and has been teaching these subjects to organists around the world for more than 25 years. He has served on the faculties of the Shepherd School of Music at Rice University and the University of Chicago. He earned degrees from Swarthmore College, the Oberlin College Conservatory of Music, and Rice University. Questions about the series should be directed to phillip@cioa.global or 773-309-1769.
| The schedule of dates and subjects are as follows: December 20 Transposition: Learn multiple techniques to assist you in developing this skill with applications to a variety of hymn styles January 17 Modulation: Learn to modulate from one hymn to another in the AGO Certification Hymn Manual February 21 Organ repertoire for SPS/CAGO March 21 Figured bass: Learn the rudiments of the figured bass system and receive material to practice April 18 Adapting piano/orchestral accompaniments to the keyboard: From Ave Maria to Elijah May 16 Accompanying anthems, solos, and psalms, with reference to certification requirements |