Today was the 7th annual Music by DESign recital, and I believe it truly was the best yet.
I know, I know, I said that LAST year, but this year it REALLY was.
We had 11 students perform out of my current enrollment of 13 (one student is an adult, and the adults don’t usually perform in recitals), and they all performed beautifully. Not perfectly, but beautifully. They showed composure, poise, and according to one attendee, showed tremendous emotion in their playing. I think the students really FELT something about their pieces: pride, satisfaction, enthusiasm, plain and simple enjoyment…whatever it was, they connected with their pieces and there was a sense of truth and authenticity about their playing. I was so proud of them.
Following the recital, I gave a reception in honor of the students and their families. Taking my mother’s wise advice, I simplified this year (read: no balloons, and MUCH simpler fare) and had punch, cake, strawberries, nuts, and some girl scout cookies that had been donated to the church. Though the cake was expensive, I spent far less on food and have far fewer leftovers than in the past.
The only drawback is that we had to set up and tear down ourselves. But I have a wonderful husband and a terrific mother who were tremendous helps in that regard. It only took a couple of hours to set up, and about 1 hour to have the room cleaned up and set in the “default” position with their help.
I was so proud of my students. What a great day of celebration!!