Within the past couple months, I have gone through some big changes, in both my personal and professional life (the latter being all good changes). I have had about 6 or 7 new students sign up for piano lessons, and have gotten closer to plans toward expanding my piano teaching business to the point where I can hire teachers. In addition, I have gotten hired onto one very interesting and involved composing project that I am excited about called The Elements Club http://www.kysrealm.com/. I've also gotten great news about future potential projects with people whom I've collaborated with in the past. So all good things.
Another thing I am doing that is completely new to me, is signing up with the IronTeam which is a part of the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society's Team In Training. Team In Training participants work toward fundraising and training in various endurance sporting events to support cancer research, provide patient services for those fighting Leukemia, Lymphoma and other blood diseases, as well as support their families while their loved ones are undergoing treatment. I am going to be the Vineman Ironman next year in July. Yes, a whole Ironman. Any of you that may have read this blog in the past know that I am a runner and that I often compare the time and commitment required in endurance athletics (well, any sport really) with that required to excel at music. So now I am embarking on what I think will be an incredible journey, training and fundraising alongside some really amazing people (several of them I've already met and gotten to know a bit) as I prepare for the mother of all triathlons. A full Ironman consists of a 2.4 mile swim, a 112 mile bike, and 26.2 miles of running. Yes, that's right, a full marathon. It's a big undertaking.
Another thing I am doing that is completely new to me, is signing up with the IronTeam which is a part of the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society's Team In Training. Team In Training participants work toward fundraising and training in various endurance sporting events to support cancer research, provide patient services for those fighting Leukemia, Lymphoma and other blood diseases, as well as support their families while their loved ones are undergoing treatment. I am going to be the Vineman Ironman next year in July. Yes, a whole Ironman. Any of you that may have read this blog in the past know that I am a runner and that I often compare the time and commitment required in endurance athletics (well, any sport really) with that required to excel at music. So now I am embarking on what I think will be an incredible journey, training and fundraising alongside some really amazing people (several of them I've already met and gotten to know a bit) as I prepare for the mother of all triathlons. A full Ironman consists of a 2.4 mile swim, a 112 mile bike, and 26.2 miles of running. Yes, that's right, a full marathon. It's a big undertaking.
And here is where I can tie it into piano (of course you knew this was coming, right?). Learning any instrument requires a great commitment of time, effort, grit and heart. There are times when you might sit down to practice, and nothing comes out right, the notes are confusing, you can't get your fingers to play the rhythms correctly.....you know what vexes you the most. Going back to the topic of my Ironman training and fundraising efforts for the LLS, I know there are going to be times that I will be tired, frustrated, unmotivated and feel like throwing in the towel. But it will be important to remember my end goals, as I do with piano, and through this, I will be able to keep myself going till the race comes, raising money for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society so that they can keep doing the great work that they do.
Something else new I'm just trying for fun-- I decided to learn every song from "A Charlie Brown Christmas," here is the picture of my brand new shiny book. Enjoy!
One final note, anyone that would like to donate to my fundraising campaign can do so here. I would be very much appreciative, and it is tax-deductible!
