A Real Blast from the Past

As I finish grading all of my student's finals for the school year, I thought it would be nice to share an experience from Saturday past. My phone rang and I heard the voice of my favorite HS chorus teacher for the first time in over 25 years! Karen French Fruits is still teaching in her hometown of Waynetown, Indiana. I found out about her through her brother Rex on Facebook. If it hadn't been for her care and concern for me my senior year, I might not have attended DePauw University with a very nice scholarship. She took it upon herself to drive me and Ina Carlin to the audtions on a weekend in January, putting us up at her parent's home in Waynetown (they are still both alive and doing well in their 90s!) the night before and making sure we had a wonderful weekend. The thing I remember most about the audition was that almost all the entire music faculty was there to hear me play my flute. That hadn't happened elsewhere. So, Karen, "here's to you" with all my gratitude.

The suprise visits get better and better!

Shelby and Erica (without Anna, Thank G-d!) came and visited me today as well. Where is the McEachern security when you need them!! Seriously, I am always impressed when students from the past come by for their annual parole meeting.

The Lights were Bright at Stardust 2009

All Orchestra students are to be commended for a wonderful final performance for the school year last night. We performed to a packed house, and every number was wonderful. Special kudos go to the Symphony Orchestra for their rousing renditions of the Sound of Music and Andrew Lloyd Webers Biggest Hits. I got to see graduates Charisse, Martha, Felicia, Juanita, Melissa,Michelle and Tony among others. NOW we collect the music, pass out the awards and have our final Senior Banquet on Saturday night.

Felicia comes to visit!

I was so pleased to receive a special visitor today from Valdosta St. University. Ms. Carwise came in to check up on me and even shared some of her experiences playing in her college Symphony Orchestra. In addition, I received my DePauw University Alumni Magazine and lo and behold, there was a picture of the Orchestra with Citlaly Serrano-Barron performing. I hope more of my former students will drop by and see me.

Seniors have their Assembly

It was so sad to see my Senior boys and girls all grown up today! Juniors were excited about taking over the soon to be empty ranks; they will be the new "top dawgs"! As a result, very few students are left to teach today. Ms. Cicco was kind enough to leave her piano class for me to watch today as she went to the Walton HS Jazz Festival. THANKS! I continue to play at the Strand Theater until May 10th. It has turned out to be a really great production, and I've met some great people! Tomorrow is my shared recital with Susie Hines and her students at the 1st Presbyterian Church of Marietta at 2 P.M.; then I'll go home, nap, and do another performance until 11 P.M.