Back to School!

It is time to go back to school, so make sure you go back having the guidance you need with weekly private oboe lessons! Remember to register at Parlando School for the Arts in Boulder or the Rocky Mountain Center for Musical Arts in Lafayette. Currently I am only teaching occasionally in Denver, but feel free to contact me if you are interested in that option. Lessons in Denver are perfect if you want some help on oboe, English horn or reeds without making a weekly commitment. You may call my cell phone at 303-910-2718 to inquire. Happy practicing!

Taking Time For Creativity

This is a perfect tag-a-long to the John Cleese video post below. I don't want to seem like I am a proponent of laziness - on the contrary, the creativity fostered by idleness is only brought to fruition by deliberate execution (usually through hard work and determination). So find your balance. Take time to refuel, relax, and reflect. This is a skill which takes time and practice just like learning to play an instrument.

When was the last time you sat down with colors and a blank sheet of paper? When was the last time you slept without an alarm to wake you? When was the last time you allowed yourself a day free of obligations, and let the day unfold?

Why WOULD anybody want to play the oboe?!?

I have had the great fortune to see Joseph Robinson in person a couple of times in the last few years right here in Colorado! The first time at CSU's OboeRAMa, and the second time at a master class hosted by CU-Boulder. It appears he has had his wonderful attitude for quite some time! He has also, of course, always been a fabulous player. I have not had the opportunity to meet most of the other people featured in the video, but I have heard Sherry Sylar play live and admire her playing very much. I love this clip for its complete honesty: from the trials and tribulations of dealing with our temperamental reeds, to confessions of love for the oboe's unique sound.