Public Radio

First, a link for the season, an interview with John Rutter about Christmas Carols.

Second, a Colorado Matters segment regarding arts in schools.

Hopefully the links will work!

The Arts: Contributing to Denver's Economy

"Denver's arts and cultural community created $1.69 billion in total economic activity in 2007, up 19% from 2005."

- Colorado Business Committee for the Arts

A lot has happened since my last post, especially regarding the economy. It is important to remember that while many arts organizations are not-for-profit, they contribute greatly to economic as well as cultural vitality. This is especially important with regards to arts education. I recently learned of a local orchestra's cancellation of educational concerts due to budget shortfalls. Not only will this impact the economy now, but the future health of Colorado's arts and economy.

Please consider donating to local arts organizations, or patronizing them generously during the holidays. Season tickets make great gifts! Take a friend to a concert or recital, *especially* if they have never experienced anything like it before.

Surf on over to Tenly's Blog and click around for some wonderful organizations that contribute to the health and vitality of Colorado's culture AND economy.

Don't Forget...

... to check out Tenly's Blog for upcoming concerts, broadcasts, and more!

Excellent Advice

Thanks to Oboeinsight for this post!

Reed Making Videos by Bob Atherholt

The previews are free!

View them here!

It is back-to-school time, so this is my annual reminder that I teach oboe and English horn lessons in Denver (near the Broadway light rail station), Boulder (at Parlando School for the Arts), and Lafayette (at the Rocky Mountain Center for Musical Arts) in the beautiful state of Colorado. Email tenly.williams@gmail.com for more information.

Extended Techniques

This has been a watershed summer for me in terms of expanding my technical skills. I have learned to circular breathe, flutter tongue, and even experienced a few seconds of singing while playing (although I wouldn't want to perform this in public just yet). I've always believed that one is never "done" learning music, and it is nice to have some new skills to add to the mix. Of course I will continue to hone these skills along with others and try to remember that even goals that have baffled me for years can be achieved! I highly recommend using the "easy button" for positive reinforcement!

I admit it.

The Tuning CD changed my life. Listening to the CD would probably drive most people completely mad, but playing with it has become an essential, almost meditative part of my practice routine. I highly recommend it, and highly recommend using it in such a way (with headphones or when no one else is around) that those you care about will not resort to sabotage to save their own sanity!

Sightreading genie!

I just found this great tool for sightreading skills! Oboists, pick an example that has only one melodic line, or just play the top note throughout, then listen to the musical example and pick out the part you just played!

Also check out the rhythm gym!

This football star plays the oboe...

So should you!

Chester Pitts Superbowl Ad WITH OBOE

If you watch the "Behind the Scenes" footage of the making of the ad, Chester clarifies that he had *plenty* of dreams and achievements when he was playing the oboe as an electrical engineering major in college. Chester, you are my new hero!