Tuesday, August 26, 2008

Back in the Saddle

Emily's post today was quite appropriate, since today was my first major practice session since April 27th. I've picked up my cello now and again since Elizabeth was born, but just for a few minutes at a time. Now, with my orchestra season less than two weeks away, it's time to get serious.

It's like coming home.

Things are a bit tight, especially since I'm always carrying at least one child in my arms and my trapezius is generally a wreck. All things considered, though, it wasn't too terrible. It's quite exciting, really, how much my chops have come back since I got my new cello. Last summer in particular I practiced a lot and I think was pretty much back to my college level (in fact, I have surpassed my abilities then in some areas thanks to the playability of this instrument).

I heard auditions last night and it was just such a joy to be back with my fellow principals. I'm looking forward to getting my seating figured out for the season. I only wish this season had a bit more excitement musically. After Ein Heldenleben, I suppose anything is going to seem anti-climactic, but the first concert is focused on Opera, and we have several members of the MN Opera coming to sing with us. Woohoo . Don't get opera much, and the cello parts are BORING. In fact, for one of the pieces we're doing I think we have 4 different notes through the entire piece. I guess I should look on the bright side that bowings and fingerings will be easy to get done!

Now we'll just see if I can practice enough in the next two weeks, with all else I must do, and E's baptism coming up.

3 comments:

Kate said...

In general, I love pretty much anything, but opera? Yucko.

gottagopractice said...

Yes, it's almost Fall. I was wondering... Do you have any experience with other local orchestras? I'm looking for one that 1) has a high but realistic standard of playing, welcoming less able players who are willing to work hard, 2) is educationally oriented, with a large dose of "standard repertoire", marked parts, and sectionals, and 3) an inspiring conductor who loves to work with amateurs. Does such a beast exist?

Cellomama said...

gottagopractice - are you in the Twin Cities area? Gosh, how did I miss that?

I know about some of the other local orchestras by reputation, but have only played in the BSO since I graduated college. Might get a bit long for a comment here, so if you want to chat more email me at cello.mama@yahoo.com.