- What is sitting on your desk right now?
Although my wife Cheryl and I regularly subscribe to at least five Chicago musical/theatrical venues, my desk presently contains five flyers from other worthy arts organizations that urge my attendance. We’ll have to see what future calendars and pocketbooks can accommodate. I always learn from listening to non-keyboard instrumental and vocal artists.
- What would I rather be doing right now?
I really would rather be practicing/reviewing organ voluntaries and demanding choral accompaniments on my grand piano for my rewarding position as Organ Associate at Christ Church Winnetka. I’m already in my thirteenth season at Christ Church, and I don’t want to tempt any “bad luck” thru lack of preparation.
- The best advice I ever received?
My most amazing BM and MM major organ professor, David Craighead, at the Eastman School of Music, played a huge number of guest organ recitals throughout the country. As his assistant organist, I was “left behind” in Rochester to play both services at St. Paul’s Episcopal. Mr. Craighead never ever complained about his many recital experiences, whereas I myself often complained (arrogantly) about many specific organs. Mr. Craighead’s loving advice, almost verbatim: “Young man, sponsors of organ recitals ask you to play an instrument that they enjoy. So, always play as if that recital instrument is the most wonderful you’ve ever played!”
- The best advice I ever gave.
I’ll admit that when I was a full-time faculty member, my students received lots of my advice. In addition to ample practice hours, there are only three advices that I’d still recommend for a performing musician. a. Listen to yourself very carefully. b. Analyze the composer’s score thoughtfully. c. Be very physically comfortable and relaxed. I believe that these three statements can produce lots of confidence for performers.
- What keeps me motivated in life?
I feel very fortunate to perform (play) in situations where listeners often express their appreciation. Ample motivation is provided by knowing that I brought them pleasure.