As July draws to a close and August brings the beginning of the season ever closer, I’m thinking about the fruits of a particularly verdant summer.
- I’ve taught at two great programs, one brand new and one an old friend, and been inspired and energized by the participants.
- I conducted at a new company and got an invitation to come back.
- In the next few weeks, I have a brand new work to play and a well-loved piece to coach and conduct.
- I’m learning how to be artistic director of a funky, well-loved venue in Ann Arbor.
- I’m getting ready to teach young people who are planning to work in prison outreach.
- I’m serving on the board of a new, inclusive, community chorus in the Detroit area.
I love the combination of big career things, teaching things, and community things. It feels like life.
If you know me outside of this blog, you know this summer has also dealt me and mine some pretty intense loss. That’s part of life too. I’m sometimes flabbergasted by the juxtaposition of artistic life with that loss, and often humbled by the gift of each to the other.
What does it mean to be an artist in the world? This is on my mind all the time these days. I’d love to hear what you have to say.