First Online Vocal Recital

My first online vocal recital on the 26th was quite the success! 
 
The basic format was simple; every student pre-recorded their solos.  I then created a playlist and shared each video over Zoom with the attendees.  I was a nervous wreck for the entire recital.  I wasn’t worried about my singers – they sounded great – but it was the first time for me to use Zoom in such a way that all the technology was quite intimidating.  However, I learned a lot and the next time I have an in-person recital, I will be able to easily create an online version for parents and family that cannot attend in person.
 
I will post some students’ songs in the near future – there were some incredibly creative performances that will make you laugh and cheer. 
 
I want to share a longer version of two thoughts I wanted my students to come away with during the recital.  Every year I hold these recitals and give the same general speech of “how great the year was etc…”  This year has been different.  We have been robbed of our daily routines, jobs, financial security and health concerns.  It has been a tough three months.  But we are going to get through this as a nation and as a community TOGETHER.  It is almost comical how many challenges our country has faced since its birth.  Wars, bank runs, economic depressions and domestic instability seem to happen literally every decade.  But Warren Buffett says it best – “it’s a terrible mistake to bet against America.”  No matter how incompetent our politicians or disastrous our circumstances, we as a people and nation seem to get through each struggle stronger and more resilient.  One virus will not bring down our country’s future.
 
Finally, the best part of my day is seeing my students walk through the door.  I do not teach voice lessons for the music or the money.  I do it, day after day, year after year, because I love getting to know my students, their quirks and passions, and watch them develop through their school years.  Getting to know you is the best part of my job.  I look forward to seeing you all in-person very soon.  God bless you and your family.