tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-244281690697447662024-03-08T07:11:00.154-08:00Focusedhour88keysRosemary Ebner Pomeroyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13120231507504214477noreply@blogger.comBlogger67125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24428169069744766.post-62747109616108400062023-10-31T07:56:00.003-07:002023-10-31T10:10:55.120-07:00Pianos - What’s happening folks!!!<p> It’s been over three years since I have posted in my blog FocusedHour88Keys. I decided it was time to jump back in and focus on my favorite instrument, as well as a lifetime of committing to playing the piano capably and with great musicality!</p><p>So, I am 67 years old and my first piano was a small Baldwin spinet- an Acrosonic. My Dad received a promotion at the bank where he was a real estate attorney. So, he knew how much my mom wanted a piano and he bought her one. I can still remember the day the piano was delivered. My mom was at the corner of our street Vaughan in NW Detroit, and I remember her screaming. “Run Rosemary run we just got a piano.” I was walking with my childhood friend Mark James, and I turned to him and said something like “I’ve got to go!” And off I went. </p><p>My mom took piano lessons first, but eventually it was I who raised my hand, when my dad asked “who wants to take piano lessons?” It was the start of my musical journey….and helped me to create my piano motto - Changing hearts and minds one note at a time. Whatever your reason for playing the piano, come up with a statement that holds you accountable to practicing, playing and even performing.</p><p>But I digress. I am a social media person to an extent, and I find myself perusing my Facebook page, for several reasons. I like to see pictures of my adult children, on vacation, with their friends, or even their posting of humorous anecdotes. I also have a judge colleague, who posts loads of interesting things about history, as well as fun family vacations. I love to post about my home town of Detroit, my favorite musicians, and interesting stories, about historical figures. </p><p>Facebook, also has groups particularly community Buy Sell and Trade pages. Here, people put their items on the page to sell—-It’s an interesting approach to the old fashioned garage or tag sale. The concern I have is that folks put pianos up for sale on the site. And they sell these instruments for $1.00 or $5.00. The pianos are beautiful spinets with a history and a story. Shouldn’t these pianos become part of a school music department where they can be used by students to become better musicians?</p><p>I have friends who often tell me, I bought my child a keyboard, then I I don’t have to tune a piano. Really? How can a keyboard replace a real live piano? It can’t and don’t lull yourself into the the thought process that it can. The touch and feel of a real piano, the sound, the craftsmanship, well there is nothing like it in the world. </p><p>I even suggest that if you want a real piano, go on one of these Facebook Buy Sell Trade pages, and buy one of these instruments for cheap. Then turn around and contact your local piano tuner guild, find a tuner, and get it tuned. It might require having the tuner coming back a couple of times in a year, to bring the piano to an amazing place . But I guarantee this will work. Be part of this piano’s story. This piano could change your life! We all want to change hearts and minds one note at a time. And here is a way to start!</p><p><br /></p><p>I</p>Rosemary Ebner Pomeroyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13120231507504214477noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24428169069744766.post-85766999803707343122021-03-26T07:55:00.004-07:002021-03-26T07:55:42.768-07:00Broken again-but it is only my finger<p> So in my last post from September 2020, I spoke about breaking my left wrist-my dominant hand, and the challenges it would present for playing the piano. Well, on January 20, 2021 -yes Inauguration Day in the States, I headed to our condo club house gym to use the elliptical and treadmill. Having recovered mostly from my wrist injury, I though it would be good to get back into the exercise routine. Well, as luck would have it, I got on the treadmill, and pressed the speed up button. It was a treadmill I was unfamiliar with, in terms of exercise equipment. I couldn’t get the machine to stop and end up rolling off of it, injuring my right index finger. It was bleeding between my first and second finger, and I thought, well-I don’t think it was broken.</p><p>My husband was with me, and we headed to the emergency room. And yes it was in fact broken, a minor break, but nevertheless broken. I could only think....here we go again, doctor visits, splints, bandage wraps and alas, playing the piano on hold.</p><p>After I spent some time in the ER I left there with my finger in a splint, and the directive, to see my hand and wrist surgeon Dr. Marlo Van Steyn. Interestingly, when I met with Dr. VanSteyn, she kindly told me that my finger break could have been a lot worse. And that I was lucky. I also got the impression that she didn’t put much stock in treadmills, and though she didn’t exactly say that, I made a decision then and there, that walking, the elliptical, and swimming would be the order of the day going forward.</p><p>I have to put in a bit of kudos to Dr. Van Steyn. First and foremost, she is one of the kindest doctors I have ever met. When you are sixty five and a hand surgeon tells you -“you have beautiful hands” you automatically start to feel better. I wanted to say hey Dr. Marlo, I have handled paper, paper clips, staples, cleaning products, and all kinds of cooking utensils for over 30 years, and let me tell you, you can’t mean me.</p><p>She also made me realize that I could conquer the injury to my finger, and get back to a good degree of normal. She also renewed my personal belief that one must always protect their hands. I think that goes back to 7th grade at OE Dunckel Junior High in Farmington Hills, Michigan, when I received a D in gym for our volley ball unit. I told my gym teacher that I was not playing volley ball, simply because I had to protect my hands, in case I became a concert pianist. I am sure my gym teacher thought I was a kook, but here is the thing, I had a such good grades in my other subjects. And I was able to weather the storm of a D in volleyball, for the sake of the piano. Hurray.</p><p>I have also learned that if you believe in your physician, and she or he believes in you, you can accomplish just about anything. Dr. Van Steyn ended up sending me to hand therapy and it is improving flexibility in my left wrist, and stiffness and mobility in my right finger. And my hand therapist is strengthening my grip, which is sadly needed at my age. So if your physician suggests therapy, don’t scoff and say to yourself, “self I really don’t need to do this,” because you probably do need it.</p><p>I add, hand and wrist therapy is occupational therapy and my therapist is on task and all business. When you work hard and do your homework, you get a well deserved “congratulations.” I also learned from Tammi Hartshorn, that she was at the Orthopedic One facility here in Columbus, Ohio, because she wanted to work with Dr. Marlo Van Steyn. That was reassuring, because I know that they are working together, to make my hand and wrist better. They both make an amazing team!!</p><p>There are loads of crazy hand and wrist therapy exercises. Squeezing a tennis ball in different positions, rolling large glass marbles in your hands, and my all time favorite, rolling a tennis ball round and round a plastic plate or frisbee, to increase wrist mobility. Every exercise, has a specific reason to do it. And I have learned that if you do the exercises, results come, and they are generally good.</p><p>There is also the “grip measures” where you can find out if you are increasing your grip strength. My grip strength is getting better, although incrementally. And honestly, when you are in a hand, wrist, arm and shoulder therapy room, you look around and realize—-count your blessings. A lot of folks have a lot worse crap than moi. So again, one more reason not to whine.</p><p>So, I’m back to practicing. There are still some pieces, that are taking a back seat for the moment. But, I am discovering there is a lot of playing I can still handle reasonably well. One must take a tortoise approach when playing a musical instrument after an injury, and I have always subscribed to the theory that slow and steady does win the race.</p><p>More piano adventures to come!</p>Rosemary Ebner Pomeroyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13120231507504214477noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24428169069744766.post-19614358697515724322020-09-29T08:32:00.002-07:002020-09-29T13:35:40.160-07:00Broken but determined<p> So Sunday September 6th, 2020 added some excitement to the Labor Day weekend. A couple of our friends stopped by with an outdoor pizza, as we really haven’t seen many friends in months. We just moved to a new condo development, and decided to take our pals down the street to look at a new patio home model that was under construction. </p><p>Walking back to our condo, I cleverly tripped on a small rock, fell, and tried to break my fall with my left hand, which is in fact, my dominant hand. Wrong move. I could feel my wrist swelling as I got up from my slow motion fall, and what went through my mind was....piano playing is going down the tubes.</p><p>As luck would have it, our new patio home is close to the local urgent care/emergency room. Since I don’t have a medical background, I decided a trip to the ER was warranted. It must have been far too early when we arrived at the Urgent Care, as the place was basically empty. They took xrays and determined I did in fact have a hairline fracture of my left wrist. There is nothing like bandaging by a medical professional, and I left the place with a very white ace bandage, almost to the tips of my fingers.</p><p>On the way home I started to think about what I wouldn’t and couldn’t be doing over the next 6 weeks. When it is your dominant hand it is always a bit daunting. I add I am full on left handed, and cannot do much of anything with my right. And after a visit to the local hand surgeon, it looks like I was looking at 6-8 weeks of inconvenience. I don’t know, it is in my nature to cry, particularly, when I am not thinking clearly and can’t seem to find an initial way out of things. But as head of the national crying committee, crying doesn’t take one very far...and honestly you can wreck your eye make up.</p><p>But when I got past those feelings, and realized I had already had two foot casts for bunion surgeries more than 10 years ago, I knew in my mind I would find a way. In a pandemic world I rely on all my hobbies to see me through. I am just a piano playing fool, and realized that a cast on my left hand is going to take away time from working on my new play list for a time, until playing at the Ohio State James Cancer Hospital will resume. I also love to create through needlepoint, and I think for now, I am putting that on hold. You can needlepoint with one hand, but I like needlepointing with two. </p><p>So in thinking ahead, I decided that when my amazing piano tuner arrived for my 6 month tuning of my beautiful grand piano, I was at least preparing for the day when I would play again. In fact, Mark Ritchie, decided that now was as good as time as any to pull the “action” out of the piano, and take it with him, so he could file the felt hammers, and generally get this amazing instrument in even better shape. I bought my piano in 2002, and I have always been committed to tuning my piano twice a year. If you care about the piano, you want the sound to be perfect. There is nothing more horrible than playing on an untuned piano. And there is nothing better than playing even the simplest of exercises on a piano that sounds great.</p><p>Mark Ritchie, is an incredibly knowledgeable piano tuner and piano restorer. He has the confidence of many long time customers as well as the confidence of various local Central Ohio school systems. He takes this artistic craft seriously, and appreciates that even amateur pianists like me, are willing to commit to excellence. So if you need a tune up- message me if you are in the Central Ohio area, and I will send you his number.</p><p>So without my piano action/piano keys, my piano sits in our new house, as a reminder, that music is what makes this family, this home, this house Better, everyday. I’ve blogged before about the piano symbolizing possibilities, and in this pandemic world I know I need all the possibilities I can get right now.</p><p>Interestingly, Mark Ritchie, is actually going to do some work on the action, that will voice the piano down a little. We have a great room with an adjoining den, and the piano is in the beautiful den space. With our wood floors, the sound is almost a bit too big, so, some professional work on my instrument might really make a difference.</p><p>For now I put piano lessons on hold. But Dr. Suzanne Newcomb, ever the optimist, scanned and emailed some piano pieces to me for the right hand only. Suzanne was a student of the great Leon Fleisher at Peabody, and he had a neurological condition in 1964, when he lost the use of his right hand. It was diagnosed as focal dystonia forcing him to focus on the repertoire for the left hand, including Ravel’s Piano Concert for the Left Hand. And in 2004, he played the world premier of Paul Hindemith’s Klavier music, a piano concerto for the left hand. See Wikipedia notes on Leon Fleisher.</p><p>Just reading this about Maestro Fleisher, gives me hope, and I hope any pianist with an injury, hope. He could have pulled back, and given up, but from what Dr. Newcomb tells me, he never did. Isn’t that one of the points about any artistic endeavor, not giving up on creativity, not giving up on playing the piano, not giving up on drawing, not giving up on painting, not giving up on dance, or not giving up on cross stitch, needlepoint, knitting ever. The story of Leon Fleisher and this set back for him is in part about not giving up on whatever feeds your soul.</p><p>So I am still whining, I’m still saying a Charlie Brown “aaaaargh,” but like a lot of other things that don’t go my way, when I take the necessary pause, I usually try to find a way.</p><p>So, re grouping, at 64, I would like to think I can always get better at it. And I should have this cast off in time to start working on my Christmas music sets. Aaaaargh!!!!</p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p>Rosemary Ebner Pomeroyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13120231507504214477noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24428169069744766.post-6600482246069632422020-08-31T08:18:00.001-07:002020-08-31T08:18:26.321-07:0030th Birthday Tribute to our own Sarah Pomeroy<p> August 19, 2020</p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">It's Sarah Catherine Pomeroy's birthday today! Thirty
years of our amazing daughter! Sarah has played the piano since she has
been about 6 years old. She can play classical, Broadway show tunes, and
most importantly she can play jazz. One of Sarah's favorite pieces of
music is Take Five by Dave Brubeck. I have thought over the last few days,
about how that piece of music correlates with her life.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">First and foremost, Take Five is in 5/4 time. Paul
Desmond who was Brubeck's alto saxophonist wrote this amazing song, in the
unusual 5/4 meter. It sets the song apart from other jazz standards.
Almost everyone knows how Take Five begins, and if you don't, as soon as
the left hand starts, you will know. Just as that 5/4-time meter sets the
song apart, the rhythm of Sarah's life sets her apart. In the past 30
years, Sarah has internalized her own particular beat, and marches to it,
loving us and Michael and standing by her many wonderful friends.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Jazz music, has the ability to calm folks down, and gives
most of us a chance to focus on the actual music. Sarah is simply like
jazz. She can calm her crazy anxious mom down, and also has the ability
to make friends and family feel at ease.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>In that way her family and friends can focus on a particular issue, a
funny story, or any of the other exciting things going on in her
life. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Take Five as envisioned by Dave Brubeck and Paul Desmond is
about collaboration! And our own Sarah Pomeroy is also about being
collaborative. She has been bringing friends together, since her marching
band days at Watterson. She never neglected her Watte high posse, which
is incredible. At Michigan State, she managed to forge amazing
friendships, and marched to her own person beat, befriending professors,
students and marching right to the Presidency of the Michigan State University
Residence Hall Association. And always listening to her own beat,
with grace, and good humor.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Moritz College of Law was where she shook things up, just
the way the song Take Five did. She managed to live at home with the
folks, while still studying her derriere off, and being part of a wide variety
of law school activities. Sar has so many cherished friends from law
school, and we got a glimpse of those relationships, when various law pals
would pass through chez Heischman.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Sarah began her career as an associate at Jones Day in Washington
DC. Again, she found her rhythm there, and again forged wonderful
friendships. But she knew that her real beat, the pulse on which she
moves through life was in public service. So, she came back to Columbus
and is currently working with the City Attorney in the Zone Initiative
group. Often in jazz there are solos, but in the case of her
current job, she is part of an amazing collaborative team with wonderful young
lawyers. at the Zone Initiative, and I have never seen her happier professionally
than she is right now.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She is also
collaborating with wonderful friends who are part of the New Leaders Council –
NLC.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">So, on her 30th birthday, I think I can say what many
critics have said about Take Five....it is a joy. That aptly describes
what Mark, moi and Michael think about Sarah – yes, she's an absolute
joy. Thanks for taking care of Michael like the wonderful big sister you
are.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And thanks for sharing your views
and thoughts on everything Sar.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Happy
birthday Sarah Catherine Pomeroy. Thanks for being a wonderful daughter
and sister, and making our lives absolutely so much fun!<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Love Mom Dad and Michael<br clear="all" style="mso-special-character: line-break;" />
<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p>Rosemary Ebner Pomeroyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13120231507504214477noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24428169069744766.post-64164535407677983132020-07-22T11:38:00.000-07:002020-07-22T11:38:08.819-07:00Musically speaking during the pandemicSo folks, what does the amateur pianist do during the pandemic? Well folks, the amateur pianist plays. Dr. Suzanne Newcomb, yes folks, she has a doctorate from Peabody Institute of The John Hopkins University, is one of the leaders in piano for the adult student. Here in Central Ohio, that means that she has Adult Student Fridays. You can sign up for a lesson, whether it is one, two or even more lessons a month. This allows the adult piano students the flexibility that they need. Sometimes, weekly lessons as an adult student can be a tall order, so with this arrangement, you can take the lessons, to meet your needs.<br />
<br />
I took some time off from lessons to downsize our home and move to a condo. That is a spectacular feat, within the throngs of a pandemic. However, I can say that my trusty husband and I actually did it. We moved during a pandemic, crazy but true. The lessons and the work required to have a good lesson take me away from the constant unpacking and organizing and I am grateful.<br />
<br />
Right now, I am working on several piano issues. The first is use of the pedal. I come from the amateur view, that I can simply depress the damper pedal, and consequently get through any piece with flying colors. Well folks, that is an incorrect assumption, on the part of any student of piano. So to correct my pedaling issues, I am working on a book of Pedal Preludes by Samuel Maykapar. Born in Russia on December 18, 1867 and passing away on May 8, 1938, Maestro Maykapar saw a need for progressive training in pedaling, and I think this book of preludes fits the bill. The book is critical in that each prelude contains a note on the pedal’s role in the prelude. For folks like me, it has been helpful, and secretly, I add that I need to read the note first and then play.<br />
<br />
I’m also working on a book of Nocturnes by Dennis Alexander. The nocturnes are from early intermediate to late intermediate stage, and, I think they capture the magic of Nocturnes especially when one thinks of the Nocturnes of Frederic Chopin. I have learned several Chopin nocturnes, and albeit, Mr. Alexander’s Nocturnes seem easier, I think they will help when I return to the nocturnes of Chopin.<br />
<br />
I am also an avid fan of the Sonata format and I am currently working on the Sonate Opus 26, Number 3 by this incredible composer. In all the time I have read about Muzio Clementi, I am most intrigued by his influence on Beethoven, Chopin and Czerny. This sonata is beautiful, and not too long. So for the amateur, one can feel like they are accomplishing something, musically. <br />
<br />
I always have a secret popular piece to work on, just to branch away from the classical music genre. Usually the piece is not one I take to my teacher, but something that allows me to break away from the lesson list, with a piece that intrigues me. The latest piece falling under this category is a jazz piece called My Baby Just Cares for Me. This is a 1930 jazz standard by Walter Donaldson. Nina Simone has been referred to as the high priestess of soul, and she her rendition of My Baby Just Cares for Me, is well, incredible. In fact, on YouTube.com there is a claymation cartoon of her singing this jazz classic. <br />
<br />
I can play it very slowly, and honestly, the piece if I get it close to the marked speed is simply a dream. The dream is always the same, I’m in a dark jazz piano lounge, wearing black velvet, with an alcohol free chocolate martini, at a 9 foot black Steinway, playing this song, and with an amazing singer. In fact, I have the singer in mind, Faith Maupin from our own St. Peter Choir. It is just a pipe dream, but the pipe dream is always about possibilities, and I never want to be in a place where I don’t think about the possibilities in life. <br />
<br />
So that is at least at this time, my pandemic music activity. I also recorded the piano accompaniment for a zoom choir song, that we will be putting together in the next week or so, so musically I manage to find a way. I hope you step back into your musical journey soon, meaning today. Rosemary Ebner Pomeroyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13120231507504214477noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24428169069744766.post-7447217080388427062020-04-30T11:38:00.000-07:002020-04-30T11:38:05.209-07:00Rest in Peace Ellis MarsalisDuring the Covid-19 crisis, about three weeks ago, I awoke to the news that Ellis Marsalis had passed away. He was Wynton Marsalis' father, and a skilled jazz pianist in his own right.<br />
<br />
Often, when I think about musicians I love, such as Wynton, I often wonder what their background was, and whether their parents or siblings had the gift of musicianship. I discovered that Wynton's Dad, Ellis Marsalis was a jazz pianist in his own right, and taught piano to many jazz musicians. In fact, one of his pupils was the pianist Harry Connick Junior.<br />
<br />
Twenty plus years ago, I happened to be in Borders Books Store, perusing the wide selection of CDs they had in one section of the store. I found myself in the jazz CDs and noticed a CD cover with Wynton and Ellis Marsalis. The CD was Volume 3 The Standards, Resolution of Romance. I flipped over to the back cover, and realized that the songs listed, were ones that my mother sang, and listened to, particularly when she was cleaning around the house. <br />
<br />
Jazz standards are musical compositions that are an important part of the musical repertoire of jazz musicians, in that they are widely known, performed, and recorded by jazz musicians. And they are songs that are widely known by listeners. I always think about the beautiful ballad Time After Time as a classic jazz standard. Written in 1947 by Sammy Cahn on lyrics and music by Jules Styne, it has been recorded and performed by so many jazz musicians I particularly like two versions, one by the singer Ella Fitzgerald and the other by the singer Tony Bennett.<br />
<br />
So, when I saw the CD with Standards in the title, I thought, I need to buy this one! I learned after my purchase, what a gifted musician, Ellis Marsalis was, and the great musical influence he had on Wynton, and his other sons Branford, Delfeayo, Jason, Mboya, and Ellis III.<br />
<br />
Take a look at this quick and wonderful summary of Ellis Marsalis. I think the article touches on Ellis as a husband, father, teacher and musician. <a href="https://apnews.com/571a69e03af0a78dbc5d0899ad156270">https://apnews.com/571a69e03af0a78dbc5d0899ad156270</a><br />
<br />
One of the things that touched me in the article link was when sons Ellis III and Delfeayo went to see their father play in a club. At the second set, there was only one man listening, but he was sleeping and drunk. Ellis III asked his father why he was continuing to play for an audience of one. Ellis responded that he was being paid to play a set, and he was going to stay and play, even if that man was the only person there. Ellis III told the article's author, that he learned that first lesson about integrity from his father.<br />
<br />
It made me think about when I play at the James, sometimes, there may only be one person sitting in that area of the lobby. I often say to myself, this listener took the time to sit down and listen to me play, and I am going to give that listener, the best quality I can, in part because I committed to do so. It made me feel good to read that about Ellis Marsalis. Let's get real folks, musicians, both professional and amateur, we play our instrument or sing because we absolutely love it. We want to share the music that is in each of us. My mantra has always been changing hearts and minds one note at a time. This story reminds me that, this is exact what Ellis Marsalis was doing.<br />
<br />
Ellis Marsalis had a great influence on the musicians of New Orleans. As a teacher, he spent his time and energy teaching students to play his kind of music. And the musical world is better for the knowledge he imparted, as a teacher and fellow musician.<br />
<br />
Many lives are being lost during this Covid-19 crisis. Ellis Marsalis is one of the examples of the gems of this world who are lost to us. But, we have his music, and we will listen, and be inspired. And if you want to carry the inspiration with you, get that Standards CD, or download it, and experience the amazing Ellis Marsalis for yourself.<br />
<br />
Rest in Peace Ellis Marsalis. It is a continuing honor to listen to your music......one of the best!<br />
<br />
<br />Rosemary Ebner Pomeroyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13120231507504214477noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24428169069744766.post-10495863845467151302020-03-23T07:49:00.001-07:002020-03-23T07:49:19.534-07:00Piano during the pandemicIn my 64 years, I never quite imagined a time like the one we are having right now. I live in the Central Ohio area, near Columbus, and our Governor Mike DeWine, just issued a 15 day stay at home order. I don't think it will be simply for 15 days, so I am starting to look around my home, and determine how I will spend my time.<br />
<br />
I have written before in this blog, about my beloved grand piano and how it has saved me and will save me in the months ahead. The piano to me means possibility. First, and foremost, I am taking lessons from Dr. Suzanne Newcomb, and she is using i-pads and i-phones to give on line lessons. Honestly, my first thought was "I don't think this can work." But when I really stop to think about it, these technologies are providing a way to connect. And connect I will. <br />
<br />
I have also thought of borrowing my mother-in -law's key board when the weather gets better, and heading out to the front porch to put on an outdoor concert for anyone who will listen. I think it is possible for neighbors to hear some tunes and still maintain their 6 feet of obligatory distance.<br />
<br />
I have been playing once a month at The James Cancer Hospital in Columbus, Ohio and right now all visitors are stopped from entering the hospital. So music at the James through the Heather Pick Music Program appears to be on hold. So again, when the weather gets better, I may simply head outside and give the naybors a small element of relief. There was a recent story on the Today Show, where two young cellists right here in Columbus Ohio, entertained a neighbor sheltering in place on her front porch.<br />
<br />
I have also thought about, the music I would like to learn, and now perhaps I have the time to learn it. I don't want to give up on a Bach Prelude or even another Mozart Sonata. I have some challenges right now in my practice efforts, working on use of the pedal and rhythm in duets. However, I keep thinking now is the time to choose something bold, and really learn it. Then I have my moments where I don't feel bold, but I feel scared, nervous, and even a little bit cray cray as my adult children like to say. <br />
<br />
And for my blog followers, if you have a wide variety of popular or lounge lizard music, as I like to call it....perhaps now is the time to work on some of the measures in those songs that you have been meaning to break down, but you let them get away. Here is your chance amateur pianists of the world....Be bold, be big and dig in. Which makes me think I could work more on the use of grace notes instead of ignoring them, as I often like to do. <br />
<br />
Looking ahead to beyond isolation, I think, wow perhaps it is the time to organize a concert of amateur pianists. Perhaps we can play for a cause. One near and dear to my heart right now, is my daughter's organization New Leaders Council here in Columbus, Ohio These wonderful young people are part of a national organization that recruits, trains and promotes a rising generation of progressive leaders. I've also considered a fund raiser recital for local artists, or an organization assisting foster youth aging out of that population. I don't know, but simply because I'm isolated I don't plan to stop dreaming ever! <br />
<br />
So when you play your piano, thank your parents if they decided You should take piano lessons. Piano lesson are one more tool in the parental arsenal to expand your children's horizons, open their possibilities. Also, if you have a piano, and want to take lessons, explore in this challenging time a teacher who may be willing to teach you remotely. Again, this is a time of being bold. perhaps Winston Churchill's words must be taken to heart, "never give up, never give up, never give up." There is some boldness for you.<br />
<br />
Think of the music, scales, exercises, waltzes, nocturnes, preludes, lounge lizard songs. You can play and you must play. You as an amateur pianist can change hearts and minds one note at a time!!!Rosemary Ebner Pomeroyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13120231507504214477noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24428169069744766.post-85029299903075954642019-12-12T16:29:00.002-08:002019-12-12T16:29:46.801-08:00The Pedal!It has been a while since I have taken the time to blog about my beloved instrument. Today I hope to focus on one of my issues in my piano journey, use of the pedal. Pedal markings are diagrammed in most pieces, but often I think the average student simply ignores these keys to better pedaling. <br />
<br />
The amateur student often approaches pedaling with this thought, "I can figure it out on my own." Since I have used this approach, and not had much success, I believe that one should be prudent and frankly "trust the professionals." In creating my own pedal approach, I am basically ignoring the intent and let's just say the will of the composer. On some level, it simply seems wrong.<br />
<br />
So in taking lessons from the incredible Dr. Suzanne Newcomb, I have learned that she is not afraid to confront a student's issues. Dr. Newcomb determined that I needed help in the pedal department, and assigned a book of music entitled Pedal Preludes by Samuel Maykapar. <br />
<br />
Mr. Makapar was born on December 18, 1867 in Kherson, Russia. He created many books of compositions in miniature form, for the committed student, and again, the special exercises for pedaling. Maestro Makapar even wrote an autobiographical book entitled The Years of Study and of Musical Activity. I'm sure it is insightful. In fact, I wonder what it would be like if hundreds of piano students wrote the same type of autobiography. Would we change the hearts and minds of piano students for the better? I like to think we would, if we in fact took pen to paper and described our years of study. <br />
<br />
The Pedal Preludes book gives an excellent description of the pedals of the piano and the use of the rhythmic and delayed pedal. The book also describes the left pedal that decreases sound volume and the infamous middle pedal, often found on many grand pianos. Even if you think you know the purpose of the various pedals on your piano, it never hurts to review the basics.<br />
<br />
There are 19 pedal etudes, and interesting, number 10 is missing. Perhaps Mr. Maykapar had an aversion to the number 10. There is no explanation in the book as to why the number is 10 is not listed. <br />
<br />
The last few pages of the book has notes on each of the various preludes, and what the composer wanted a student to accomplish while learning the piece. So if you leave a lesson and have questions about one of the preludes, a student can at least look back at the notes and review the objective that is trying to be achieved.<br />
<br />
When I was a young piano student, I simply wanted to depress the right pedal, or the one that operates the dampers. I felt that by using the right pedal, I could simply create a larger and grander sound. In the Pedal Prelude book, the editor indicates "The right pedal influences sound in several ways:<br />
the duration of sound after the key is released<br />
fusion of sounds produced while the pedal is depressed<br />
magnification of sound<br />
enrichment of tone color."<br />
<br />
I think what I loved starting out as a piano student was that the right pedal continued the sound of the chords and notes I loved, even after the keys were released. And I felt that by using the right pedal, I was farther along in my competency than I truly was at the time.<br />
<br />
The left pedal decreases the volume of sound. When you grow up with two brothers, I often relied on the left pedal to quiet the sounds of tedious scales and Czerny exercises, I was trying to "get right." As I grew up, I often thought that if I lived in a small apartment in New York City, I would need to make judicious use of the left pedal. The left pedal did result in a good compromise for my brothers who weren't interested in the classical music of exercises inventions and sonatas. <br />
<br />
In the Pedal Preludes notes, I learned that the use of the left pedal is indicated by the words Una corda which is Italian for one string. I have seen this indication often in classical music, but it is good to be reminded of what it means, and how it will enhance my playing of a beautiful piece of music.<br />
<br />
This little book is still in print, and if you are looking for a primer on pedaling technique,Pedal Preludes might be a good place to start. Don't be intimidated by the pedaling process. Instead use this interesting little book, to take on the challenge of pedaling. You will be a better pianist from making the effort. <br />
<br />Rosemary Ebner Pomeroyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13120231507504214477noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24428169069744766.post-57610476435210219492019-09-24T11:47:00.001-07:002019-09-24T11:48:22.913-07:00The music of Michigan State University<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
I will digress from my usual piano focus, to music pure and
simple.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> With serious sport/college administration scandals, it has been tough to be a Michigan State Spartan. But it is in the music of my beloved campus, that I can take heart, because the music of Michigan State is the heart of this incredible university.</span><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Well folks, it’s football season in Columbus, Ohio, but alas, I am a
Michigan State Spartan.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Big Ten football
aside, I think back to my college days with a great many fond memories.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Beyond the sports, and intellectually
stimulating classes, I find myself thinking back to the music that is Michigan State
University.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I have always been a musical person.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I play the piano, I sing in my church choir,
and I serve on the board of Chamber Music Columbus.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Music is in my heart and my soul.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>When football season rolls around, it is the music
of Michigan State that draws me back to East Lansing, Michigan.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I still believe Michigan State has the most beautiful campus
in the Big Ten, and well, in the world.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>The changing seasons, the greenery, the Red Cedar River, I could go on,
but as many Spartans like to say when remembering MSU, “the Michigan State
campus captured my heart.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
First and foremost, I lived in the West Circle area of
campus.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Back in the 1970’s, it was
simply referred to as the Virgin Isles, because the dorms were housing solely
for girls.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>During my Landon Hall days, I
had the good fortune of living across the street from the practice field for
the Spartan Marching band.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As Buckeyes
know all too well, there is nothing like the stirring music of a college band
practicing during football season.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I
often heard a first run of the band’s half time show.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Even in my worst days of intro to accounting
or statistics 315, the Spartan Marching Band, and its amazing drum line could change
my outlook, like nothing else in this world.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>And on those dreary November days, when you knew a Michigan winter was
coming, the Spartan Marching Band could simply take you away from the impending
Michigan winter chill, and the hard studying awaiting you back in your dorm.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
My junior year dorm, Mary Mayo Hall, was also in West
Circle, and very close to the School of Music.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>On many of my walks back from Economic Business History, on the far
southern part of campus, I could hear incredible music coming from those
hallowed halls.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I listened to voice
majors working on an operatic aria, or even individual instrumental students,
practicing a scale or a difficult passage in the music school court yard.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It made me almost a bit envious, because
these amazing students had the courage to pursue their musical passion.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I had dreamed about a career as a
professional musician in terms of my piano studies, but simply didn’t have the
guts to give it a try.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
My college roommate’s sister was a voice major, and she
managed to convince me and my roommates, on several occasions to attend her recitals and those of
her friends.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was our good fortune to
be at her senior recital, and she gave an incredible recital of operatic arias
in Italian and German.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
In all the dorms of West Circle, there was always
music.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>So many music majors lived in
these dorms, that you could hear kids playing in the lobby every day.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I am an amateur pianist, and it was often
challenging to get to the piano on Friday afternoons, because someone without
Friday afternoon classes beat me to it.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The West Circle area of campus, was also home to the beautiful
Beaumont Bell Tower.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The Tower was built
in 1928.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The incredible carillon tower,
filled the north end of campus, with beautiful hymns and other familiar choral
works.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>When it was snowing on campus,
and you simply didn't feel like you could walk another step, the familiar music
of the carillon tower, reminded you it was only a few more weeks or months until
spring time was coming to Michigan State.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Legend has it that Michigan State students aren’t officially Spartans
until they share a midnight kiss beneath the 104-foot-tall structure.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I found out about that legend long after I
graduated in 1977, unfortunately.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Yet, I
still believe that the Beaumont Tower is a musical inspiration for generations
of Spartans too come.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The music of Michigan State also carried me through on most
Sundays to the Michigan State University St. John Student Parish.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Most Sundays, I could be found at 10:00 a.m.
Mass, for an incredible Eucharistic celebration accompanied by beautiful church
music, both traditional and contemporary.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Sometimes in the church pew, I would say to myself, this….is the last
place I want to be.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But the music often
reaffirmed my faith, and changed my point of view for another week of classes
and work.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Yes, music was the connecting thread during my Michigan
State days.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Whenever I look back at my
college years, I can still hear our fight song, and strong beat of the Michigan
State Marching band drum line.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I can still
hear music students, practicing, with the hope of changing the lives of all who
want music to be a part of their life.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>And I can still feel the music, as I walked across campus in a beautiful
snow storm, knowing that the music would carry me on my educational journey to
the next chapter in my life. Yes the campus and its music captured my heart! Go green!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<br />Rosemary Ebner Pomeroyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13120231507504214477noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24428169069744766.post-79585863591551234902019-08-21T15:05:00.001-07:002019-08-21T16:45:48.953-07:00Playing in the lobby - more thoughts on the James Cancer HospitalI have posted about playing at the Ohio State University James Cancer Hospital a few posts ago, but I decided to circle back with some additional thoughts.<br />
<br />
So what have I learned from playing at the James? First and foremost, I have learned that for the most part I have good health. From the piano bench, I have seen a lot, particularly cancer patients, lots of them, fighting their individual health challenges with great courage and dignity. I have seen family members, wheeling their loved ones in the lobby, simply trying to have a few better moments, than the moments they are facing on the other hospital floors. I have seen physicians, so many physicians, in full on scrubs, white coats, and even the little head coverings, meaning they probably just finished a surgery. I have seen med students and nurses, hundreds of them, moving quickly often<br />
picking up a lunch, eating on the go, and on the way to the next breakthrough, exam or family meeting. And I have seen volunteers, yes, people giving of their time in a small way, to make a difference for the patients and families fighting cancer.<br />
<br />
From the piano bench, it is easy to get lost in the music. I hope I know this well enough. I hope this is a piece that someone will like. I hope it's okay if I practice my favorite church hymns. And wow, I hope they like Aretha as much as I do. I often smile, when a busy physician walks by trying to hum whatever tune I am playing. And I particularly like it when just about any physician or nurse can belt out a tune from Lion King or the Little Mermaid. And this is crazy, but I even heard a physician sing Strangers in the Night when he walked by, and I wasn't even playing it. But honestly, almost anyone can chorus a doobee doobee doo in tune.<br />
<br />
When I first started playing at the James, I almost felt sick when I saw patients, families, visitors or medical personnel, sitting at the tables by the piano. I would say to myself "Oh God (and that's a prayer) I can't wait to screw up. Or, I didn't practice this one carefully enough, or I can't do this, I'm just an amateur. However, the last time I played about a month ago, I realized that what the volunteer musicians are providing, is simply pure relief from the difficult medical challenges going on with the patients, their family members and their friends.<br />
<br />
Several months ago, a nurse actually sat down on the bench when I was playing Natural Woman, and he did sing. In fact, he even asked me when I would be back so he could sing again. I think he was just happy to have a few minutes off. I have known a few nurses in my life, and they are on the front lines of patient care, often working 12 hour shifts, and making quick and tough decisions with a smile.<br />
<br />
I have even seen friends. That is one of the toughest things, because again, you are seeing folks you love going through medical challenges. Pure courage is about the only thought I can muster when I see friends going through the lobby. They are putting one foot in front of the other, and I often say, could I be that brave, could I be that strong?<br />
<br />
On a lighter note, as a fashion oriented person, I do not like wearing a James Hospital polo. As a Michigan State Spartan it is difficult on any day to wear scarlet or gray. But when I think about putting up with my blasted polo, I always remind myself, that it's a small price to pay to give people some music for one short hour. The polo says you are a part of a team, a team of amazing people making a difference.<br />
<br />
Sometimes while playing I hear physicians walking by, talking about a medical procedure, or even a small break through, and I start to say, maybe some of these challenging cancers will be cured. I don't know if they will, but I can have hope and I will have hope. Yep, you can't take hope away from me.<br />
<br />
I have about 25 pieces copied and in a white binder. I also bring along a few extra music books, just in case I run out of pieces, or simply want to play something different. I add that I end with the Ohio State University alma mater Carmen Ohio. I never thought I would play that piece, but I think on some small level it makes a difference. Carmen Ohio is really a hymn called Come, Ye Children of the Lord. It is a Spanish melody arranged by Benjamin Carr The words were created in 1881 by James H. Wallis<br />
<br />
The text of the first verse is as follows<br />
Come, ye children of the Lord,<br />
Let us sing with one accord,<br />
Let s raise a joyful strain<br />
To our Lord, who soon will reign<br />
On this earth, when it shall be<br />
Cleansed from all iniquity ;<br />
When all men from sin will cease<br />
And will live in love and peace.<br />
<br />
There are two other verses as well. <br />
<br />
As the OSU story goes, in 1903, Fred Cornell a freshman at Ohio State, and a backup defensive end, and a member of the Ohio State Glee Club, wrote the lyrics to Carmen Ohio, following a devastating loss to the University of Michigan. Not sure if this is the correct story, but blog followers can email me at ebnerpom@gmail.com with the correct facts. I will add that Carmen is Latin for song and the title Carmen Ohio literally means Ohio's song.<br />
<br />
But I digress, and add, that the alma mater is beautiful, and it says so much about the people of my adopted state of Ohio, and particularly my children (who are OSU graduates,) that folks are simply proud of their education, and their connection to the firm friendships of The Ohio State University. I hope for patients and their families that the alma mater brings them a moment of pride, and memories of their many happy years as Buckeyes.<br />
<br />
So what have I learned from playing at the James? That I can give a piece of myself to the lobby crowd by playing my favorite instrument. That perhaps some piece I am playing will remind them of their spouse, their best friend, their first date, Frank Sinatra, or even their child's first Disney movie. But I hope that even for a brief hour, I can make someone feel that a piece of the world is still all right, even while facing great challenges with hope and courage. The world is always magical when there is a piano, someone to play it and music!! Who knows maybe the crazy James polo is not that bad!Rosemary Ebner Pomeroyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13120231507504214477noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24428169069744766.post-47953899520499690422019-06-19T06:57:00.000-07:002019-08-21T16:57:40.473-07:00I've posted before on this subject - adult piano studentsSo when I think of the word spectrum, I often think of an adult piano student. One definition of spectrum is a noun used to classify something, or suggest that it can be classified. In my work as an adoption attorney, I have had adopted children who "fall" somewhere on the autism spectrum, again, a way to classify the development condition that affects the ability to communicate and interact. So can the adult piano student be classified? I believe the answer is yes.<br />
<br />
As an adult piano student, how do I see myself and others pursuing their piano dreams? I will start with others. Often when I chat with friends or family about adult piano lessons, I receive a myriad of responses. Some tell me they want to learn just enough piano, to play Christmas carols with their grandchildren. One of my former hair dressers, only wanted to learn and play Debussy's Clair de Lune proficiently. Others have told me they want to go as far as they can go, with the time they have left on this wonderful planet.<br />
<br />
So, how do I see myself.? My dreams about the piano, and playing it have changed over the years. When I was a young girl, I dreamed of playing ragtime piano like Jo Ann Castle on the Lawrence Welk show. As I got into my lessons, (starting at 6 years of age), I wanted to play like my teachers, and some of the more advance students that had lessons before or after me.<br />
<br />
When I attended Albion College for one year in 1973-74, I wanted to play like Edward Rosser, who had the lesson before me. He is an incredible pianist, and I have blogged about him and his amazing piano story in this blog. I came to the conclusion in college, that I didn't think I had the ability to teach piano or teach music, so I started to look at my next set of dreams, a career in the law, or even as a department store buyer.<br />
<br />
But even with my life heading down another path, I always held on to the dream of being a respectable and capable pianist, meaning I could entertain myself, family and friends, and I could pass on my love of the instrument to the children I dreamed of having some day.<br />
<br />
When ever I went to a concert of a pianist I loved, I still dreamed, that I could play this piece or that piece with proficiency and great conviction. So I started to list my favorite pianists, Emanuel Ax, Kathryn Stott, Jean - Yves Thibaudet, Jon Nakamatsu, Aaron Diehl, Bobby Short, Herbie Hancock, Dave Brubeck, and wondered if I could play one of their concert selections. All of these pianists and many more reinforced my dream of playing respectably and capably.<br />
<br />
So where am I today? Well, first, I realize that I can't play all of the repertoire that I want to play today. And, I have come to terms with the fact that I am not the pianist I was at 17 years old, when I was practicing 1-2 hours a day, and had all the time in the world to work on a difficult measure of music, or stage a piano recital performance in my living room. Back in my later teens, I didn't have a job or children, or real responsibilities on the home front. I may have had a chore or two, but honestly, if I was playing the piano before or after dinner, my mom often set the table or did the dishes....because I was playing her favorite instrument.<br />
<br />
But as an adult piano student today, I can play better than I did yesterday. I can work on my challenges, rhythm, correct fingering, pedaling and dynamics. I can re examine a piece I learned to play years ago, and maybe even learn something new. I can receive a challenge from my teacher, accept the challenge, and maybe even surprise that teacher by listening to her ideas about a particular piece and implementing those ideas.<br />
<br />
I can also take my piano skills and give music to others. Whether it is as a pinch hit pianist at my church, or playing in the lobby of our local cancer hospital, I can share this amazing instrument with my friends, family and even strangers. Perhaps the difference I will make is that I will sooth someone's soul, or trigger a memory they had about a song or melody they heard years ago. And most importantly, a listener may conclude ....."hey I want to start taking lessons again, and change my life and the lives of others I love."<br />
<br />
In the Summer 2019 issue of The Piano Magazine for Clavier Companion Barbara Kreader Skalinder has written a beautiful essay entitled What My Adult Students Have Taught Me. The three subtopics of the essay are 1. Honor My Interests, 2. Help Me Learn the Music I love and 3. Teach Me to Trust Myself. These three concepts are explained with great references to some of the adult students she has taught and that she is currently teaching. I came away from the essay realizing that I could see a small part of me in each of the three subtopics.<br />
<br />
To honor your interests as a student, your teacher needs to know what your interests are. So, as a student you must be bold and speak up. Tell your teacher you want to perform, or play at church, or even teach a neighbor or friend. Tell your teacher the composers that you really love. Perhaps there is a piece by that composer that is at your level, and you can in fact master that piece. And as a student, you again need to be bold, and tell your teacher, what your challenges were in your practicing week, and what you tried musically to get the proficient result you want.<br />
<br />
The adult piano student is in fact brave, courageous and bold. As and adult student you are taking on new challenges, and learning that you can make a difference in your piano lesson journey.<br />
<br />Rosemary Ebner Pomeroyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13120231507504214477noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24428169069744766.post-77784533904281258512019-04-18T10:58:00.001-07:002019-04-18T10:58:24.455-07:00The Heather Pick Music ProgramA few months ago, I was chatting with my piano teacher Suzanne Newcomb. She told me that she played piano for the Heather Pick Music Program at the James Cancer Hospital in Columbus, Ohio<br />
<br />
To take a page from the program's website,<br />
<br />
<div class="mod" data-md="61" lang="en-US" style="background-color: white; border-radius: 8px; clear: none; font-size: small; padding-left: 16px; padding-right: 16px; padding-top: 16px;">
<div aria-level="3" class="LGOjhe" data-hveid="CAsQAQ" role="heading" style="color: #222222; font-family: Roboto, arial, sans-serif; overflow: hidden; padding-bottom: 20px;">
<span class="ILfuVd" style="font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.375; padding-right: 8px;"><span style="background-color: #f9f9f9; color: #777c7c; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;"><b>Heather Pick was a beloved news anchor for WBNS 10-TV, as well as a wonderful singer and songwriter. In November of 2008, she passed away from breast cancer after a courageous battle, leaving behind a mourning community and a legacy of healing through music.</b></span></span></div>
<div aria-level="3" class="LGOjhe" data-hveid="CAsQAQ" role="heading" style="overflow: hidden; padding-bottom: 20px;">
<span class="ILfuVd" style="font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.375; padding-right: 8px;"><span style="background-color: #f9f9f9; font-size: 14px;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Suzanne encouraged me to consider playing in the program, and I mulled it over for awhile. I finally got my courage up to submit and application and a tape of my playing. It was several weeks later, when I heard from Blake from the Pick program, and he basically told me I had passed. I was surprised but somewhat excited, as I believed I could make a difference for patients and visitors at the James, by playing my favorite instrument.</span></span></span></div>
<div aria-level="3" class="LGOjhe" data-hveid="CAsQAQ" role="heading" style="overflow: hidden; padding-bottom: 20px;">
<span class="ILfuVd" style="font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.375; padding-right: 8px;"><span style="background-color: #f9f9f9; font-size: 14px;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">The week before my first hour session, I was reviewing my extensive music collection trying to determine what I would play. As I looked through classical and popular selections, I thought wow, do I know this well enough, or is this appropriate. I finally concluded that I would play pieces that inspired me, and that I thought were interesting and thoughtful. I also decided that the audience was cancer victims, their families, and hospital staff, and that I should play with the idea or concept of making a difference.</span></span></span></div>
<div aria-level="3" class="LGOjhe" data-hveid="CAsQAQ" role="heading" style="overflow: hidden; padding-bottom: 20px;">
I found my travel rolling brief case, and began selecting books of music, with pieces I could play fairly well . I began to tab various pieces, and number them, putting them in the order I wanted to play. I knew I would be playing for an hour, and came up with about fifty pieces I could play proficiently. My selection included classical pieces, Broadway show tunes, easy listening songs, and what I like to refer to as standards, pieces my mother loved, because well, Frank Sinatra or Tony Bennett sang them. </div>
<div aria-level="3" class="LGOjhe" data-hveid="CAsQAQ" role="heading" style="overflow: hidden; padding-bottom: 20px;">
The day I arrive at the James Hospital, I was nervous. As I collected my thoughts and sat down to play, I realized, that I was playing piano in the middle of a busy hospital lobby. People were walking by with lunch in tow, others were shuffling along while texting on their phones, and some were wheeling their precious loved one in a wheel chair. </div>
<div aria-level="3" class="LGOjhe" data-hveid="CAsQAQ" role="heading" style="overflow: hidden; padding-bottom: 20px;">
I started to realize that it wasn't going to be a captive audience, so the best I could hope for, would be that someone would recognize a piece and have a simply moment of solitude, while listening and going about their day. Occasionally someone would sit down in the lobby chairs and listen intently, and even clap. In fact my third volunteer effort, resulted in a man singing along while I played Natural Women, an Aretha Franklin favorite.</div>
<div aria-level="3" class="LGOjhe" data-hveid="CAsQAQ" role="heading" style="overflow: hidden; padding-bottom: 20px;">
What I truly learned from my first session was that the purpose of playing in this setting is to bring a brief moment of sunshine to an often challenging and dark place. I've heard physicians start singing as I play the Lion King's Can You Feel the Love Tonight, and sighs, when I play the beautiful music of La La Land. I've also heard folks tap their pen on a notebook, as I play an orderly Bach prelude.</div>
<div aria-level="3" class="LGOjhe" data-hveid="CAsQAQ" role="heading" style="overflow: hidden; padding-bottom: 20px;">
After my first volunteer hour, someone had filled out a comment card about my playing. He or she said something like, and I paraphrase....'this place would be a lot happier if someone like this woman played every week.' That meant so much to me. I used to play in yearly recitals, but now my playing is honestly confined to after dinner time, while my husband does the dishes. And during piano lessons, in part, you are playing for an experienced musician, who is critiquing your efforts, to make a difference in the kind of pianist you are, and the kind of pianist you hope to be.</div>
<div aria-level="3" class="LGOjhe" data-hveid="CAsQAQ" role="heading" style="overflow: hidden; padding-bottom: 20px;">
So, I think I will continue my volunteer efforts for awhile. If you can play the piano, and want to perform, look for a similar type of setting, where any music you play will be appreciated. Take some time to give of your musical self that you have worked hard to cultivate. By your time and attentive playing, you will brighten a person's day, change their point of view and perhaps, give someone a moment of peace and relaxation. </div>
<div aria-level="3" class="LGOjhe" data-hveid="CAsQAQ" role="heading" style="overflow: hidden; padding-bottom: 20px;">
Even as an amateur pianist, your efforts should be shared with others. It just strengthens the importance of the piano in our everyday lives. So get out there and practice and play. And if you are in Columbus, Ohio, look into the Heather Pick Music Program. I would like to think that Heather Pick would be glad you did.</div>
<div aria-level="3" class="LGOjhe" data-hveid="CAsQAQ" role="heading" style="overflow: hidden; padding-bottom: 20px;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<div class="g" style="background-color: white; clear: both; color: #222222; font-family: Roboto, arial, sans-serif; font-size: small; line-height: 1.2; margin: 0px; padding-bottom: 16px; padding-left: 16px; padding-right: 16px;">
<div data-hveid="CAsQAw" data-ved="2ahUKEwjh17-46NThAhVLIqwKHfu0D6UQFSgAMAF6BAgLEAM">
<div class="rc" style="clear: both; padding-bottom: 0px; position: relative;">
</div>
</div>
</div>
Rosemary Ebner Pomeroyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13120231507504214477noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24428169069744766.post-75616756447226537492019-02-22T09:48:00.006-08:002019-04-16T17:40:28.291-07:00The piano will save you - revisited<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
I started piano lessons when I was six.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I can still see my mom at the corner of
Vaughan Avenue and Grove Street (Northwest Detroit.)<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She was calling my name, and she told me
“Rosemary they just delivered our piano,,,,,run!”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>So that is what I did-- run, to find a
beautiful brown Baldwin spinet in our living room.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Initially my mom took lessons, but with family
responsibilities, no time for lessons or practice.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>One evening at dinner, my Dad asked me and my
brothers, “who is going to take piano lessons?”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>My brothers’ hands didn’t shoot up, so I said yes.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
That started my long relationship with my favorite
instrument.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My first teacher was our
parish organist.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He was a taskmaster,
rapping my hands with a wooden stick when my hand position wasn’t correct.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As an outspoken child, I told my mom…and
quickly moved on to another teacher.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
In 7<sup>th</sup> grade when I found my dream piano teacher,
Katherine Lemon.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I took lessons from her
through 12<sup>th</sup> grade.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She was
an Oberlin graduate, and very accomplished. I began to dream of a career as a
piano teacher, and professional musician.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>My senior year I played a Debussy Prelude in my final piano recital, and
to my surprise, I only played one or two incorrect notes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I had just told my teacher a few weeks
earlier, that I wasn’t sure I had the ability to be a piano teacher, and that I
was thinking of law school.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
During my first year of college, I took piano lessons
through the school of music.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My teacher
criticized my playing and told me I didn’t have the right type of thumbs to be
a pianist.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I was heartbroken and quit
lessons after a semester.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I didn’t even
play the piano in our dorm lobby.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I
boxed up my love for the piano and my musical dreams.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
When Sarah and Michael were little, my mom called me one day
and asked me whether I wanted our little Baldwin piano.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I thought, maybe I would start playing again
even though I told my mom that I didn’t think I could play anymore.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My mom firmly responded “no, Rosemary, you
need the piano, and eventually it will save you many times in life.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
You know my mom was right.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I spent the 1990s playing all kinds of Disney music.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I played the Winnie the Pooh theme at least
100 times as Sarah marched around the living room.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I found an amazing piano teacher Madeline
Karn, who also graduated from Oberlin for Sarah, and I watched Sarah’s progress
from Piano Adventure books to sonatas.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>When Sarah was in eighth grade and Michael was in fifth grade, I started
taking piano lessons from Dr. Suzanne Newcomb.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Suzanne like my other great teachers focuses on your current ability
while tackling your collective musical challenges.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
During my children’s busy high school years, I again took
some time off from the piano, but I have gone back to the instrument, taking lessons
in my 40s, 50s and now in my 60s.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I am
currently taking lessons from Dr. Suzanne Newcomb, but also took lessons from
Madeline Karn.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Both have given me the
courage to try anything I am willing to practice.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I’m close to finishing my legal career, and my parents are
now no longer with me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My mom’s words stay
with me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Yes, the piano has saved me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It has provided moments of order when I’m
anxious, joy when I am sad, goals to achieve when I am bored, and peace when
I’m troubled. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I feel as connected to
the piano as when I was six.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And I have
created a blog on piano playing through the mind of the amateur called
FocusedHour88keys.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The piano stands alone for me as the greatest instrument.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>So take a moment and see if playing the piano
or any instrument can save you.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />Rosemary Ebner Pomeroyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13120231507504214477noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24428169069744766.post-80773658501663245352019-02-01T14:59:00.000-08:002019-02-02T15:07:34.173-08:00Michelle Obama A Glimpse into her Piano JourneyI have taken the opportunity to blog about Presidents who have played piano. However, I have yet to explore the piano playing efforts of our First Ladies.<br />
<br />
I am currently reading Becoming by First Lady Michelle Obama. Her book is an interesting read, and she writes in a conversational tone, that simply feels like she is speaking directly to the reader.<br />
<br />
Mrs. Obama was four when she wanted to learn to play the piano. Okay folks, I feel like Mrs. Obama is simply so down to earth, I am going to call her Michelle. If you ever read my blog Michelle, please forgive me. Michelle's Great Aunt Robbie owned the house where Michelle resided with her parents and her brother Craig. What I thought was so interesting, was Michelle's first thoughts about the piano. In her words "When you're little, a piano can look like it has a thousand keys. You're staring at an expanse of black and white that stretches farther than two small arms can reach." It was the first time that someone put into words, what I thought, the first time I stared at our brand new piano, arriving in our home in 1962.<br />
<br />
Michelle went on to describe that she liked the piano and that sitting at it felt natural, like something she was meant to do. Again, that was how I felt, the first time I climbed on our piano bench. I had a family who loved music. My mom listened to Frank Sinatra while cleaning. My parents went to the symphony and the opera, and yes, we watched Lawrence Welk, every Sunday evening, whether it was at home, or at my grandma's house. The way Michelle described how she was surrounded by music lovers, was exactly the way I felt about my family, yes we too were music lovers.<br />
<br />
Michelle had a focused pursuit on learning the piano. She picked up scales and filled out sight reading worksheets that her Aunt Robbie gave her. I loved her thought process in this part of the book, because Michelle commented that there was magic in the learning. Learning the notes for the first time is magic. It's a whole new language and to coin the Aladdin lyrics, it is a whole new world.<br />
<br />
Interestingly, Michelle like me, often would look ahead in her piano books, and work on pieces that were more advanced. In reading the book, her Aunt commented on the fact that she wasn't ready to move ahead. However, I sensed a dogged determination on the part of Michelle, that she was moving ahead anyway.<br />
<br />
Often in the piano world of Rosemary Ebner Pomeroy, I found myself at the music store, IMC Music Center in Berkley, Michigan to be exact, always asking my mom to buy me sheet music that said advanced. I was confident, that I could in fact learn it even if I wasn't ready. Perhaps that is a sign of a real musician, knowing that you might not be ready for a piece, but you are going to take a leap of faith and see if you can play any part of it anyway. As a young pianist, I wanted to be bold. I wanted to play like famous pianists on the covers of albums my mom had.<br />
<br />
Michelle also took some time to describe her performance in an early piano recital. Her piano recital was held in a practice recital at Roosevelt University in downtown Chicago. Just like my mom, Michelle's mom saw to that she was wearing a nice dress and patent leather shoes. My mom was obsessed with black patent leather shoes, and that was what I had on for just about every piano recital. On page 15 of her book, Michelle described her first cold sweat of her life, and her anxiety about performing. I so remember those feelings, fear, wanting to play well, and most of all not disappointing my piano teacher.<br />
<br />
She got to the grand piano she was going to play for the performance. Michelle realized when she sat down on the bench that the piano was perfect, unlike the piano she played at her Aunt Robbie's home. The middle C on her piano at home, had a chipped middle C key. The recital piano was in mint condition. I was relieved when her Aunt Robbie stepped up on stage, and showed her where middle C was on that piano. When I read this excerpt, I was feeling her fear and anxiety just as if it was me. The car ride to your piano recital is one of the toughest ones you will ever make. You are hopeful, you will play the way you have in practice, but you are also thinking of what you will do if something goes wrong. I used to use the strategy, that I would return to my strong place in a piece, and hope for the best on the second attempt.<br />
<br />
I'm about half way through her book. I took a hiatus to finish my Hamilton book, before I see the amazing musical this Sunday. So I hope to return to Michelle's conversation very soon. I guess what I take away from Mrs. Obama's piano journey, is that she loves music. You see it in the way she listens, when there is a concert at the White House, that is part of a news clip on television. You see it, when President and Mrs. Obama are at the Kennedy Center Honors program, that music is part of their souls. And you see it in their eyes, when dancing at a State Dinner.<br />
<br />
I've said this before in my blog, but there is order and discipline in learning to play the piano. But more importantly, there is pure joy when you learn to play a piece you heard on the net, or a piece that an experienced or famous pianist is playing. It is great, when you are singing a song you heard on the radio, or on your I-phone, and you make a decision right then and there to buy that piece, and learn it.<br />
<br />
I know that playing the piano, does mean a certain focus on the pieces your teacher wants you to play to advance your progress. But playing the piano also means that you are going to conquer a musical work that has changed your life, sent chills up and down your spine, or reminds you of that first kiss, first date, the receipt of good news, or the chilling sadness that can happen on life's journey.<br />
<br />
So Michelle, I am glad I am reading your book. I didn't come from the same place, but if we had met as kids, we could have been friends. It feels good to know that we have some common experiences, especially when they involve my favorite instrument the piano. Now that the hustle and bustle of White House life is behind you, I hope you can take some time to play more, and maybe even take some lessons. Who knows you might be able to accompany the President on "At Last."Rosemary Ebner Pomeroyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13120231507504214477noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24428169069744766.post-6861663701684509942018-12-25T11:08:00.000-08:002018-12-25T11:08:29.201-08:00Christmas CarolsI have lost some of my zest for the Christmas holiday season, but I never lose my interest in Christmas carols, and hymns, and the beautiful Christmas liturgies that are part of the Catholic Church.<br />
<br />
I have a wide variety of Christmas music. I happened to be looking through my trove of holiday treasures the other day, looking for easy Christmas carols to share with my neighbor, Ann. Ann wanted some carol books that she could share with her grandchildren, so she could play simple carols and they could sing along.<br />
<br />
I happened to find an addition from the Willis Music company, that dated back to my earliest days of piano study. As I leafed through the small blue book, that was titled something like Christmas Carols for Children, I noticed that my teacher at the time George Assemany, had dated some of the carols during December of 1962. I was 7, and had just started piano lessons that previous summer. I was always happy that my mom took the time to find music for me that I WANTED to play. I could learn whatever my piano teacher had planned for me, but my Mom also wanted me to have a book or sheet music pieces that represented what I was interested in learning.<br />
<br />
In looking at this little blue Willis addition of Christmas carols, I now realize how far I have come as an amateur pianist. I can still play these one note versions of familiar carols straight or with the panache of a more experienced player. I also look at the many carol books I now play, and realize that my mom knew that music is about what you feel and how much you feel in terms of sharing music with others. I sort of laughed, when I saw the 1962 dates. In 1962 I was in second grade, leading what I considered to be a fairly carefree life. Christmas holidays, meant incredible presents, amazing food cooked by my mom, my grandma and my Aunt Irene. But it also meant rich musical treasures, played or performed at church, or by me at home, or by my Aunt Irene at her house or ours.<br />
<br />
In second grade, I was always impressed that my Aunt Irene could simply sit down at the piano and play all types of Christmas carols with ease. I knew even at 7 years old, that Aunt Irene had been a real practicer. She took the piano seriously and I think she took all music seriously. My mom was musical too, but she had not been exposed to piano lessons the way my Aunt Irene had. In some ways, I associated Frank Sinatra and Tony Bennett with my mom, but I associated piano music with my Aunt. I add that my Aunt also sang in her church choir for almost all of her adult life, and that commitment to music,was the same commitment you needed to make to become a good pianist.<br />
<br />
So in looking at my little Willis book, I took some time to find out about the Willis Music Company located in Florence, Kentucky. The Willis music company has always been about music education. In fact the Willis company was sold to Gustave Schirmer in 1919 and as mentioned in previous blogs, if one was playing a Schirmer edition, as a pianist you had arrived.<br />
<br />
I looked at the www.willismusic.com website and learned that Willis added the Modern Course for the Piano by John Thompson to its catalogue in 1936. Again, the red John Thompson book, was another side, that you were progressing as a pianist. Willis also added the Dozen a Day series by Edna Mae Burnam. Take a moment during the holidays, to read about Willis and learn about how the company has expanded to serve the musical community with music educational materials, musical instruments and accessories. Willis is also well known for its support of school band and orchestra programs, particularly in the Cincinnati and northern Kentucky areas.<br />
<br />
When I look at my treasure of music, I am always reminded of the great history in my many music books. There is a history of my progression as an amateur pianist, and a history of what I think I can accomplish as a pianist. There is always hope, when you sit at a piano, hope to become better, hope to calm your fears, hope that you can share the music which is such a part of your heart and who you are.<br />
<br />
My Aunt Irene is gone now, but when the Christmas holidays come around I always think of her, and I am proud that I can sit at the piano and play those familiar carols. I also know that our Sarah can do the same, and will assume the mantle of piano playing when I can no longer do so.<br />
<br />
If you play even at a beginning level, get out your Christmas carol book, or buy one and start a new holiday tradition...now!Rosemary Ebner Pomeroyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13120231507504214477noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24428169069744766.post-46066372166243944972018-10-06T14:05:00.002-07:002018-10-06T16:03:30.209-07:00J.S. Bach Prelude Eleven- Ornaments!I had always thought I had arrived as a student of the piano, when my teacher Katherine Lemon started purchasing Schirmer editions of classical music for me. As the years have passed, I am now in possession of the G. Henle Verlag, Urtext editions of several classical composers. The Henle edition, elevates you to an even higher status, once you can master a work within the volume.<br />
<br />
I love Bach, and I have both volumes of The Well- Tempered Clavier, or Das Wohltemperierte Klavier, Teil I and Teil II. As an amateur, in the Henle edition, there is not a lot of direction in terms of fingering patterns, or the notes to be included in an ornament. There is the Vorwort or Preface, for basic guidance. However, in my quest to learn quickly, I generally don't spend a lot of time reading the editor's notes that accompany these challenging preludes and fugues.<br />
<br />
Currently I am working on the Praeludium XI. I am the second string pianist at my church, and on rare occasions, I fill in as the pianist, for Saturday night Mass. I'm not sure about the congregation's affinity for classical music, but I like it, and I think my pastor does as well. I am always hopeful, that if I can master a prelude, it can become an after communion interlude, before the final announcements, blessing and recessional hymn. There is nothing like a Bach prelude, to make you feel like you are in a house of worship, a place of peaceful reflection.<br />
<br />
The Prelude in F major, is in 12/8 time, which always adds another dimension and another challenge. I know this is a bold statement on my part, but without the ornamentation, I believe I could master this work of Bach, in a reasonable amount of time. But this prelude has ornamentation, otherwise known to the common amateur pianist as the trills, mordants and cadences. So proper mastery of the prelude is simply going to take more time.<br />
<br />
I add that two of my piano teachers, Katherine Lemon and Suzanne Newcomb each had a book on ornamentation. I would guess that my other teacher Madeline Karn also had such a book, but I don't recall asking her about such a necessary volume of musical information. You don't get to piano greatness, like these three amazing teachers, without a volume on ornamentation.<br />
<br />
The trill focuses on this concept, integrating the stream of notes that comprise the trill into the musical melody, while maintaining the steady beat of the time signature. Often over the years, teachers have told me, learn the prelude, and add the trills, once you have mastered the notes and rhythm. Some teachers over the years have even told me to forget the trills. However, when you are a serious musician, even as an amateur, you want to take on the challenge of the trills, no matter how difficult and frustrating they might be.<br />
<br />
I was scouting around on the internet this week and, I found a transcription of an ornament table(transcribed by T. L. Hubeart, Jr.) appearing in the Clavier-Buchlein vor Wilhelm Friedemann Bach, written by Johann Sebastian Bach for the keyboard instruction of his eldest son. If you put J. S. Bach's Ornament Table in an internet browser, you will be brought to a graphic of the table.<br />
<br />
The table gives a good description of the symbol for the ornament, as well as the written out notes for each ornament. So, at least for the music of Bach, you can refer to the table when trying to determine how in practice, you will accomplish the ornamentation.<br />
<br />
I add, that in time one probably will learn "the how" of playing the ornaments without referring to the table, but keeping the table close by, when playing Bach, will help you to figure out the ornamentation, and perhaps you may even surprise your teacher.<br />
<br />
Without spending time to define the ornaments, I can add that there are at least the following ornaments:<br />
trillo<br />
mordant<br />
trillo und mordant<br />
cadence<br />
doppelt-cadence<br />
idem<br />
doppelt-cadence und mordant<br />
idem<br />
accent steigen,<br />
accent fallend<br />
accent und mordant<br />
accent und trill<br />
idem<br />
<br />
I add in defense of all of my wonderful teachers, all have been willing to write out how the ornament should be played. Particularly in Bach's music, the addition of properly played ornaments, adds to the dimension of the prelude or fugue. The beauty of Bach's music is enhanced by the ornaments, and therefore, the ornaments must be integrated into the melody and counterpoint melody.<br />
<br />
<br />Rosemary Ebner Pomeroyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13120231507504214477noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24428169069744766.post-41454372167545788322018-08-21T11:38:00.003-07:002018-08-21T11:38:57.905-07:00Thoughts About Aretha FranklinI couldn't let the death of Aretha Franklin pass without a few words. Since I grew up in Detroit, Stevie Wonder and Aretha Franklin remain my favorite Motown musicians. The Queen of Soul and her music are both a part of me. I also love the fact that Aretha recorded one of my favorite Stevie Wonder songs "Until You Come Back to Me." So there will be time for Mr. Wonder, but for now I want to focus on Aretha.<br />
<br />
When I moved to Columbus, Ohio in 1987, my friends and colleagues began to identify me with Motown music. People often would ask me whether I was a fan of Aretha or a fan of Stevie Wonder and I always responded with a resounding "yes!"<br />
<br />
Aretha had her roots in gospel music, and in any good gospel performance there is always the amazing piano accompaniment and a great soloist. Since Aretha's death I learned that she played piano by ear, and was more often than not, able to play and sing one of her amazing songs at the same time.<br />
<br />
In one of the many news shows covering Aretha's recent death, it turned out, she sought out classical training on the piano, and decided to attend The Juilliard School. Can you even imagine what it would be like to teach Aretha? I have nothing to base this on, but I think she would have approached her lessons with great humility. I would hope that Aretha would subscribe to my motto, while taking piano lessons, that of "trusting the professionals."<br />
<br />
Aretha had occasion to collaborate with many musicians, but I loved the fact that she connected with former Secretary of State, Condoleezza Rice. Aretha and Secretary Rice, teamed up to perform for one of President Obama 's fundraisers for underprivileged children. Secretary Rice even accompanied Aretha on "Say a Little Prayer." It is simply good to know that a Republican like Secretary Rice and a Democrat like Aretha Franklin can team up and accomplish something great. Greatness comes, when folks put aside their differences for the good they can do!!!<br />
<br />
Take a moment to read Randy Lewis' tribute to Aretha in the LA Times. Mr. Lewis has been covering pop music for the LA Times since 1981. He hit some of her music highlights, and has praise for her ability as a pianist. Mr. Lewis aptly describes Aretha, "But there was something special when she sat at the keyboard: a fusion of singer, instrumentalist and song that inevitably pushed the goose-bumps quotient up several notches."<br />
<br />
<b> http://www.latimes.com/entertainment/music/la-et-ms-aretha-franklin-piano-20180816-story.html#</b><br />
<br />
Mr. Lewis also writes about Aretha's 2015 performance at the Kennedy Center Honors in Washington DC. He mentioneds that the performance has had over 12 million views on Youtube. <br />
<br />
I must add that everytime I see that performance, I literally cry. First, Aretha is playing and singing for Carole King, an accomplished pianist and song writer. In fact, Aretha is performing Carole King's (You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman. To see Carole King's reaction to Aretha's performance, is so amazing. You are swallowed up by the emotions of Carole King. At the same time, the video pans to President Obama, as he wipes away tears during this song. You can only imagine what he is thinking, but at least I feel that he is recognizing how much Aretha means to citizens of this great country, and particularly citizens, people of color, who look to her for meaning, understanding, leadership and frankly soul.<br />
<br />
I'm going to miss Aretha. Her songs are entwined in the tapestry of my life. But music reminds of us of one thing, that it lives on. Her singing, her piano playing will continue, everytime you tap your music on your I-phone, when you pop your vinyl on the turn table, when you still push a CD into your car player. That's the essence of music, the musicians may not physically be here, but the music is still with us, whether we are singing it playing it, or watching memories on television or the net. Aretha is truly the key ---to my peace<br />
of mind!!Rosemary Ebner Pomeroyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13120231507504214477noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24428169069744766.post-34887786469720326202018-06-26T12:39:00.001-07:002018-06-26T12:40:11.304-07:00Suite Detroit Sounds of an American CityDuring the last several months, I have been focused on some chronic medical issues, and closing my solo law practice. I have been an adoption and estate planning/administration attorney for the last 25 years and have been practicing law in total for 30 years. I often think about the big events in my life that have brought me such happiness, and I can honestly say there are several: meeting and marrying my husband Mark, the births of my children Sarah and Michael, graduating from law school and passing the bar examination and buying a 6 foot grand piano.<br />
<br />
I think now, I am going to have a little more time to pursue hobbies and interests, including this blog. In keeping with the spirit of my blog, to focus on the mind of the amateur pianist, I want to spend a small amount of time writing about composer Catherine Rollin.<br />
<br />
I have had a variety of piano teachers over the years, and currently I take lessons from Dr. Suzanne Newcomb. I will try to blog about her interest in adult students, her sign up genius program to schedule lessons, and what I think her approach is to adult piano students with some level of experience, in a follow up blog post.<br />
<br />
But for now back to Catherine Rollin. I was born and raised in Detroit the Motor City. Ms. Rollin is a pianist, composer, clinician and teacher, and is a graduate of the University of Michigan and Oakland University. You can take a look at her many accomplishments at CatherineRollinMusic.com. Ms. Rollin is a committed teacher, clinician and composer. Frankly she is quite amazing!!<br />
<br />
Suzanne had the good fortune to connect up with Catherine Rollin at a recent Music Teachers National Association conference. I showed up for a lesson one Friday morning, and Suzanne told me that she had a present for me. Suzanne presented me with a suite of music called Suite Detroit, Sounds of an American City. The cover of the music even had the modern glass structure the Renaissance Center, which has ended up on almost any travel brochure for Detroit, over the last 30 years. The Renaissance Center was the skyscraper building in Detroit that symbolized Detroit rebirth after the riots in 1967. The riots were the results of escalating tensions between the white and black communities, and our community was struggling for civil rights, civility and fair treatment by law enforcement. So the Renaissance Center in a way was Detroit's way of saying, we are committing to our citizens of this great city.<br />
<br />
Back to the suite of music, at first when I opened the score, I thought, in my usual cavalier manner "this doesn't look too challenging." Well, as I started to discover this suite of pieces, even in music that does not appear to be challenging, there is always something to learn, and always a challenge to be conquered.<br />
<br />
The suites are entitled, The City: Overture and Improvisation, Belle Isle: An Interlude and Good Vibes: Finale. I found that these three short pieces brought back a lot of memories for me about growing up in Detroit.<br />
<br />
The City: Overture and Improvisation. When I first learned this piece, I realized that the melody made me very nostalgic for the Detroit I grew up in, especially in terms of my memories. Northwest Detroit, was a beautiful area, with every street containing elm trees that formed an actual tunnel of trees. Our street was filled with children, and all the activities that children used to play, hide and seek, tag, jumping rope, kick ball, snowball fights, playing army and bike races. For me, growing up in that beautiful Detroit neighborhood also meant, carving out my time to practice the piano. No matter what I was up to after school 5:00 to 5:30 was piano practice time. As I grew older, the time would become 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. or even 4:00 to 5:30 as my practice assignments grew in length and complexity. I never had to be reminded by my mom to practice, I practiced because I loved it so much.<br />
<br />
This melody reminds me of what Detroit was in my memory bank, but also makes me think of the amazing people of this city. Many of my grade and high school friends still reside in Detroit and the surrounding suburbs. I keep track of these folks on Facebook, and many share memories of our growing up years. The Overture, reminds me that I must keep the memories of my family, friends and neighborhood alive.<br />
<br />
Belle Isle: An Interlude. This melody captures the feeling you might experience if you were riding on boat on the Detroit River. In fact, growing up, my mom, Grandma and my brothers used to take a large sight seeing boat called the Bob-Lo Boat to Bob-Lo Island with a small amusement park south of Detroit, near Amherstburg, Ontario. If you went north on the Detroit River, you would come to Belle Isle, complete with a beautiful park and picnic area. In fact, when my maternal grandmother was young, she told me that Belle Isle was often the place she went to picnic with my grandfather.<br />
<br />
The piece captures what is like to live near so much water. I took my time in Michigan for granted. I didn't realize how much I missed living near water until I began living in Ohio. And it seems that folks in Ohio, don't even seem to care, that they don't live near water. I don't know, I just know I cannot explain how living away from water has changed my life, and not in a good way.<br />
<br />
So this piece reminds me of what it was like to live in Detroit, not far from the Detroit River, close to multiple lakes, and the peace of mind I experienced in owning a sail boat and sailing with my Dad on Orchard and Elizabeth lakes.<br />
<br />
Good Vibe: Finale. The finale piece leaves the listener with hope. Hope that the once beautiful and vibrant city is returning. In fact, when I go to Detroit now to visit, I see so many exciting things happening in Detroit, that there seems to be a real renaissance within the city. I was in Detroit, last summer, and took time out to walk along the newly created River Walk near the Renaissance Center, and took a boat tour of the Detroit River. I was beginning to feel a small glimmer of hope for the city I love so much.<br />
<br />
Good Vibes also has a rhythmic, jazz feeling, that sums up the sense that Detroit is in fact a musical city. Detroit has so many music venues, and even Detroit has its own Montreaux Jazz Festival. The Detroit Symphony is going strong, and Detroit's Orchestra Hall is one of the top classical music venues in the City. In Good Vibes, measure 9 starts a melodic passage that sort of feels like you are travelling upward. Perhaps upward to more good years ahead for this amazing city, my home town.<br />
<br />
I don't know Catherine Rollin, but I think you should take some time to explore her website, and perhaps even encourage your piano teacher, to purchase some music that she has created. You might even consider the Suite Detroit. It may make you even a little appreciative of the beautiful Motor City. Another opportunity for you to be inspired!!Rosemary Ebner Pomeroyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13120231507504214477noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24428169069744766.post-47187103269782053822018-03-07T11:06:00.000-08:002018-03-07T11:06:27.669-08:00Pianists in the moviesI have a great obsession with old black and white movies. I am a particular fan of the directors William Wyler and Alfred Hitchcock. The playwright and writer Robert Sherwood, created two of my favorite screen plays The Best Years of Our Lives and Waterloo Bridge. Robert Sherwood was an original member of the Algonquin Round Table, a group of writers, poets and satirists that met at the Algonquin Hotel in New York City during the years from 1919 to 1929.<br />
<br />
The Best Years of Our Lives, directed by William Wyler, focuses on the stories of three United States servicemen returning from World War Two. Each little vignette within the movie, tells of how these three brave men acclimate themselves to live after the war. Teresa Wright, plays the daughter of one of the service men who returns home, and she ends up falling in love with one of the other men, who returns to the states, realizing his wife no longer wants to be married to him.<br />
<br />
Harold Russell plays Homer, a returning sailor who has lost both hands in an accident on his naval ship. The film beautifully portrays how Homer comes to grips with the loss of his hands, and how he finds that the promise he made to his girlfriend Wilma before the war, to marry, is still the promise she shares and wishes to keep.<br />
<br />
Harold's relative owns a bar establishment called Butch's in the film. The relative Butch is played by the great jazz pianist Hoagy Carmichael. Hoagy Carmichael's simple duets with Homer, including Chopsticks, showcase Mr. Carmichael's versatile style. While at the same time, the piano again, is displayed at as a force for good in a difficult world, an instrument, that since it's inception has brought people together. <br />
<br />
Mr. Carmichael was born in Bloomington, Indiana. His mother Lida was a versatile pianist, and she taught him to play and sing at an early age. As a lawyer, it is a comfort to know that he earned his bachelor's degree and law degree at Indiana University. After graduating from IU's law school he did move to Florida, where he failed the Florida bar exam, but managed to pass in Indiana and he joined an Indianapolis law firm. The law was not to be, as Carmichael devoted most of his energies to music, arranging gigs and writing tunes. I must admit, I can relate to this part of Hoagy Carmichael's life. Throughout my law practice career, I find myself during the day, listening to clips of classical music or jazz, and reading about my favorite musicians.<br />
<br />
The beautiful melody Star Dust was composed by Mr. Carmichael and recorded in 1927. Carmichael also composed Georgia on my mind, and arranged and recorded Up a Lazy River. Interestingly, as it drives a lot of amateur pianists crazy, Carmichael composed Heart and Soul, which has become a popular duet performed by American children everywhere.<br />
<br />
For me, my favorite song he collaborated with Johnny Mercer to create Skylark. It is a beautiful song, and has been recorded by many artists, including my personal favorite Linda Ronstadt.<br />
<br />
In his performance in Best Years of Our Lives, he taught a disabled veteran to play Chopsticks, and I find that so endearing. Even teaching someone a simple piano tune, can change someone's life. William Wyler as a director had a real gift, in determining what scenes to keep and which ones he should cut. This is one of the beautiful stories, within the whole story of this incredible film<br />
<br />
And though he was a pianist, his greatest strength was as a melodist. His songs have stood the test of time, and the beautiful Georgia on My Mind, is the State of Georgia's official song.Rosemary Ebner Pomeroyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13120231507504214477noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24428169069744766.post-8275020825581523522018-01-11T16:30:00.003-08:002018-01-11T16:31:16.859-08:00Jon NakamatsuColumbus, Ohio is known for its infamous Big Ten football team, The Buckeyes of The Ohio State University. Yet outside Columbus, many do not realize that my adopted city is home to a thriving arts scene. Discriminating customers of the arts, will find that Columbus is home to several incredible chamber music organizations. In the past few years, I have attended Chamber Music Columbus concerts, in the acoustically perfect, Great Southern Theater.<br />
<br />
I had the good fortune on December 16, 2017 to attend a concert of the Escher String Quartet with pianist Jon Nakamatsu. I am a fan of chamber music, but I add that I am definitely a fan of Jon Nakamatsu. When I think of my favorite pianists, I think of this quintet, Emmanuel Ax, Angela Hewitt, Kathryn Stott, Jon Nakamatsu, and Jean Yves Thibaudet. So when I saw that Jon was coming to Columbus, I simply had to attend. If nothing else, the concert would be a glorious way to celebrate Beethoven's birthday.<br />
<br />
The concert was amazing. The Escher Quartet started off the program with Mozart's Quartet in B-flat major, K. 458 otherwise known as "The Hunt." Mozart continues to be my absolute favorite classical composer, and the chamber music he composed is beautiful. There was another work by Thomas Ades, called Arcadiana. It was very modern but like eating grand cuisine, I am willing to try anything<br />
<br />
Then the Escher String Quartet, performed Erno Dohnanyi's Quintet in C minor, with Jon at the grand piano. Escher takes its name from Dutch graphic artist M. C. Escher, inspired by Escher's method of interplay between individual components working together to form a whole. I love this description, so apt in terms of chamber music!<br />
<br />
Dohnanyi was a Hungarian composer, and this was the first time I had the opportunity to listen to this beautiful chamber music work. I had forgotten what attention to detail is necessary to perform such a beautiful chamber music set with five movements. All in all, it was an incredible evening of exciting chamber music. Sometimes I hear friends say that classical music is boring. Well, then you might find your musical place at a chamber music concert. There is always something knew to listen to and learn about. You also get to see firsthand, the commitment that chamber musicians make to each other and the audience. I do not have a disc of the Escher, but I plan to get one very soon.<br />
<br />
What a country, to hear such incredible musicians, including one of my top favorite pianists Jon Nakamatsu, in our incredible Southern Theater. I am very blessed indeed.<br />
<br />
As luck would have it, I am friends with Charlie Warner, who is a labor and employment attorney with the law firm of Porter Wright. Charlie is a consummate arts aficionado, and he extended an invitation to my husband Mark and me, to attend an after concert reception, where we could meet Jon.<br />
<br />
As an amateur pianist, meeting Jon Nakamatsu was just another fine example of "dying and going to heaven." As a Gold Medal Winner of the 10th Van Cliburn International Piano Competition, I purchased his Chopin cd, that included Impromptus, the Fantaisie-Impromptu, Mazurkas and Polonaises. The cd is still one of my favorites, and a "go to" when ever I want to be inspired by beautiful playing.<br />
<br />
Getting a chance to meet with Jon was a dream come true. He was incredibly kind and gracious, and I hope he returns to Columbus very soon. His playing was truly wonderful, and it was simply an honor to be in attendance. And one of his classmates from Stanford showed up at the after concert reception, so it is good to know that folks are following his exciting career as a concert pianist.<br />
<br />
I add that Jon was happy to chat with his fans. I guess what I find so appealing about Jon, was the fact that he was a high school German teacher, before winning the Cliburn. And with his concertizing he is changing up classical music in an inspirational and positive way.<br />
<br />
Jon is also the Artistic Director of the Cape Cod Chamber Music Festival. I hope to get there, since it is on my musical bucket list. He also had the same piano teacher, Marina Derryberry for most of his life. There is something so admirable about great loyalty. He also studied with Karl Schnabel, which enhances his already impressive resume.<br />
<br />
I believe the Great Southern Theatre, lives up to his concertizing expectations, because it is in fact the second time I have heard Jon play in this venue.<br />
<br />
I have lived in Columbus for over 30 years, and I never give up, on the citizens of this city and their commitment to the arts. To have a piano gem like Jon Nakamatsu performing in our fair city, is such a gift. I hope he will continue to introduce us to new and exciting chamber music works. The piano never ceases to amaze me.Rosemary Ebner Pomeroyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13120231507504214477noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24428169069744766.post-50228641124192823192017-09-26T05:34:00.001-07:002017-09-26T12:55:35.258-07:00Beyond Czerny and Hanon ExercisesAs a long time student of the piano, I have done my fair share of Hanon and Czerny exercises. At times, one can get bored with the repetitive nature of these exercises. Yet at the same time, when you really analyze what the exercises are working on, often strengthening of a specific finger pattern, you come to appreciate the value of these tried and true etudes.<br />
<br />
I know I have mentioned before in this blog, that one of my teachers Dr. Suzanne Newcomb, who is a piano professor at Otterbein University. As a pre-teen she actually played Czerny Exercise #5 in a piano recital. I must admit, that over the years it has become one of my favorites. It is fast, and has the quality and intricacy of a piano sonatina or sonata. It actually is fun, and whether you play it slowly or speed it up, you can sound like you know what you are doing.<br />
<br />
So beyond Czerny and Hanon there is Stephen Heller. Born in Hungary in 1814, Mr. Heller developed a career as a brilliant pianist, and from the notes of my Heller book by Lynn Freeman Olson, he actually studied as a boy with Carl Czerny. Quoting Maestro Heller, his purpose in writing the etudes was "not only to help the development of finger ability,but also to enable both students and amateurs to perform a composition with the expression, grace elegance, or verve demanded by the work."<br />
<br />
Well, to quote a famous movie line from My Big Fat Greek Wedding...."there you go" I guess I should have read the music notes before I started conquering the etudes. Perhaps I would have been a bit more tolerant of the work required of these gems, to become a more capable pianist.<br />
<br />
So now to focus on the Etude in E Major Opus 45, No. 20. This is an exercise that can bring out the expletives in even an upstanding person like myself. From the view of the amateur, there are a number of partial arpeggios that require you to use the fingering patterns that are in the edition. In my line of work as a lawyer, we legal types often think we know everything. Well when it comes to piano fingering, I have learned, I DON"T.<br />
<br />
The next tricky aspect to this etude in particular, is playing legato notes in the right hand, and staccato notes in the left. I can add that for an older student, this probably works important parts of your brain, and could contribute to sustaining your memory. Maestro Heller does let you off the hook,starting around measure 68 with a passage, that is more like a simple sonatina. So if you can conquer the first two pages, the third and fourth pages offer smooth sailing ahead.<br />
<br />
I often start my practice sessions playing popular music of the days. But in my stacks of music, Czerny, Hanon and Heller, are there, and you can't ignore them, if you want to play with more ability, control and even elegance. So pianists, put on your poker faces, grit your teeth and jump in. You will be glad you did. And quoting Lynn Freeman Olson the editor of my Heller edition, "And do keep in mind Heller's own goal of finger "ability" as a servant of the expression inherent in each piece."Rosemary Ebner Pomeroyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13120231507504214477noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24428169069744766.post-39231246754584061842017-08-17T17:11:00.000-07:002017-08-17T17:11:28.094-07:00The piano will save youThe title of my blog post references two conversations I had with my mother over the years. One took place, I believe when I was in college in the 1970s, the other when I was a young mother in the 1990s and my mom moved our little Baldwin piano to my house.<br />
<br />
Both conversations took place in the context, that even if I was not going to pursue a career that involved piano, the piano, and the time I spent in lessons would "save me" during multiple peaks and valleys in my life. In my early twenties, I laughed off my mother's statement as almost ridiculous, and in my early 40's I was simply too busy juggling the balls, of work, and family to think that anyone could save me from my far too busy life.<br />
<br />
But now that I am in my 61st year, I finally understand what my mom was saying, and how much the piano has saved me from so many things, recuperation from "discussions" with adult children, making mistakes with friends that cannot be turned around, anxiety and worry from job pressures, working through family peaks and valleys both immediate and extended, and many other situations that make up life.<br />
<br />
I now admit that all of the lessons have paid off, in the sense that I have a place to turn to, and a place where I can create, sort of a no judgment, no ridicule zone. Whether it is working through a classical piece that is far too difficult, or leafing through a book of popular music, I can find music that will make any day better, even if I can only plink out the melody.<br />
<br />
The practice of law can be so challenging, that sometimes, the worries can only be removed, when I play a Beatles song, a Mozart sonata, or a Bach prelude. I can make the day better, just by getting to my peaceful place of 88 keys.<br />
<br />
Music also helps me to work through how I interact with friends and families. Through music, I can understand fences I need to mend, or bridges I need to build. Music can be the background to devising a solution for almost any problem. Music can also speak, when honestly, no words are exactly right.<br />
<br />
When I first started taking piano lessons and playing, I sometimes became caught up in the smaller picture, glossing over a difficult measure to play through, or not practicing scales and arpeggios diligently, to improve my dexterity and hand position. Perhaps if I had thought about what the piano would mean to me later in life, I would have realized how much I needed to look at the big picture, and the difference piano playing would make to me in so many ways.<br />
<br />
I've mentioned in prior blog posts, how grateful I am when I come down the stairs and see my beautiful piano in the living room. I think of all of the ways the piano by its very presence has changed my life. And how my ability to play it, has taken me through the joys and struggles in my life. It's quite amazing actually!Rosemary Ebner Pomeroyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13120231507504214477noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24428169069744766.post-28671932574789803502017-08-17T10:18:00.001-07:002017-08-17T10:18:11.942-07:00I renamed my blogI loved the idea of my blog title 10000hours88keys. I had listened to several radio segments about the concept of becoming an expert after spending 10000 hours trying to develop an expertise. I thought of the 10000 hours as a potential goal.<br />
<br />
As an adult amateur pianist, I began to get very discouraged about practicing for 10000 hours. I even started to determine, using a calculator, if I practiced 2 hours a day for the next thirteen years, that would result in 10000 hours, and I would be 74. 10000 hours seemed far too daunting.<br />
<br />
That might have been possible, when I didn't have a job, didn't have responsibilities, and honestly when I had more energy. So I thought it through and said to myself, "Rose, what if you took your practice time week by week and simply tried to devote a focused amount of time each day, to half the assigned pieces of your lesson, or learning a piece of popular music of the day."<br />
<br />
A focused hour sounds possible, whereas 10000 hours can seem like the impossible. And what about the crazy weekday, when the best you can give is 20 minutes. Well 20 minutes is better than nothing. Sort of like working out, 20 minutes walking around the block, beats 3 hours in your favorite chair watching teevee.<br />
<br />
So I have renamed my blog FocusedHour88keys.Rosemary Ebner Pomeroyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13120231507504214477noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24428169069744766.post-40647326405147214032017-05-25T12:17:00.002-07:002017-05-25T12:17:16.143-07:00Matthew EbrightMy husband and I both engaged in barbershop quartet singing over the years. When we were in our twenties, Mark was member of the Motor City Chorus in Detroit, Michigan and I was in a Farmington Hills, Michigan Sweet Adelines Chorus. After we got married, my husband sang in the Singing Buckeyes in Columbus, Ohio, and I sang in Columbus based, Scioto Valley Chorus of the Sweet Adelines.<br />
<br />
Although we don't commit to barbershop singing in our current busy lives, we still love to attend barbershop shows and competitions. The Society for the Preservation of Barbershop Quartet Singing in America, and Sweet Adelines, have brought us many hours of musical happiness in participating and singing in this amazing art form.<br />
<br />
Last weekend, we had the opportunity to attend the Singing Buckeyes performance with the Bishop Watterson High School jazz band. Both of our children performed in the Jazz Band, and we cannot say enough about the band's director Mike Renzi and his incredible musical talent.<br />
<br />
The concert featured both the Singing Buckeyes Chorus, as well as the Watterson Jazz band. And the concert also featured pianist Matthew Ebright. Mr. Ebirght has worked as a featured pianist for Prince Cruises as well as being a music director for various theater productions. He received a Bachelor's Degree in Music from The Ohio State University. Matthew has also served as accompanist and assistant direct of the Ohio State University Men's Glee Club.<br />
<br />
Currently Matthew works as the primary accompanist for several high school choral programs throughout the Columbus metropolitan area.<br />
<br />
Matthew played several jazz numbers with great technical prowess. He also accompanied the Watterson Jazz Band with their rendition of Breaking Up is Hard to Do. Look for Mr. Ebright to go very far professionally. With just a small glimpse of his performance style, he seems to be able to move freely through the various musical genres.<br />
<br />
It was an incredible evening among amateur musicians who simply love music.<br />
<br />Rosemary Ebner Pomeroyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13120231507504214477noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24428169069744766.post-47667082500913789742017-05-25T08:23:00.000-07:002017-05-25T08:24:24.686-07:00Aaron Diehl and Cecile McLorin SalvantOne of my musical pipe dreams has been to attend a concert at the Barns at Wolf Trap, in suburban Washington D.C. Our daughter granted our wish, when she obtained tickets for jazz pianist Aaron Diehl and singer Cecile McLorin Salvant. The occasion---to celebrate our upcoming 30th anniversary this August 29th, and going to this concert was a great way to start our anniversary year.<br />
<br />
The concert was quite frankly, amazing. I have heard Aaron Diehl before, and being from his home town of Columbus, Ohio, He attended St. Charles prep in Columbus, and was the pianist organist at the beautiful St. Mary's church in Columbus' historic German Village. I have followed his career, and his foray into the world of jazz. He is an absolutely incredible pianist, and I believe he is in his early 30's so I know he has a long career ahead of him. <br />
<br />
Aaron collaborates with Cecile, and this collaboration this night was simply beyond words. Cecile reminds me of Ella Fitzgerald or Nancy Wilson, but with her own style, and vocal quality. She is a joy in her performance, and I kept saying to myself, over and over, "I cannot believe that I am here....tonight!!"<br />
<br />
Cecile is very mod, or hip or fashion minded. She always wears very distinctive glasses, and there are also photos of her wearing very sophisticated millinery. This very evening she had an incredible dress on, that Cecile described as her "dinosaur dress." Cecile is not a "skinny jeans" person, but I tell you this, she has that je ne sais quoi about her, and she frankly rocked her style. You are not going to forget this fine young woman of jazz. I don't know if je ne sais quoi applies, but I love to utter a French phrase or two.<br />
<br />
Cecile and Aaron played and sang for about one and a half hours without a break. The thing I noticed about Mr. Diehl, that differed from the past concerts I attended, is that he played with an elegance. For the amateur pianist, this simply means he played effortlessly, but even the amateur piano knows that effortless equals thousands of hours at the piano, hanon exercises, Czerny, etudes, breaking down the difficult measures. Aaron Diehl is the real Diehl, because he gives so much to the audience in his performance. Still waiting for his interpretation of Viper's Drag in an encore.<br />
<br />
I just kept saying to myself throughout the concert, this performance is pure class.<br />
<br />
Well as luck would have it, my husband, our daughter Sarah and I stayed until the end, and waited in line to purchase Cecile's CD and vinyl. We were at the end of the queue, and when we came face to face with Cecile, we asked her if Aaron Diehl was coming out to greet his fans. We also mentioned that we were from Aaron Diehl's home town of Columbus, Ohio. And though he couldn't come out to meet and greet, due to a dental issue, Cecile spent a few moments chatting with us. I encouraged her to come to Columbus, and she had been there before, and even seemed amenable.<br />
<br />
The most amazing thing about our serendipitous encounter was that she texted Aaron and begged him in a cell phone begging kind of way to come out and meet the home town folk. I've learned that even though he didn't come out to greet us, it's okay. I don't know anything about concertizing, but I am sure it is physically draining, and I guess like any professional, sometime after a big moment you just have to decompress.<br />
<br />
I add that I was glad my daughter got to see both Aaron and Cecile. Sarah is a very fine amateur pianist in her own right, and she got to see the excellence that only Aaron Diehl can provide. Sarah also got to see Cecile, who is Sarah's age, a woman with her own style, who knows where she is going. I like it when my daughter sees women who march to the beat of their own drum. I find myself wishing I could take both of them out for a grand lunch or tea, and we could talk music, clothes, romance, and vacations. <br />
<br />
Any present from my children is wonderful. Sarah really got an "A" this time allowing my husband and I to accompany her to such an incredible evening of piano and song. I'm still dreaming of that "dinosaur dress."Rosemary Ebner Pomeroyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13120231507504214477noreply@blogger.com0