I feel like now that I've explained my daily routine for the most part, not much has changed that is worth writing about...let's see: I have played in studio class three times, and each time has gone pretty well (we're required to play six times a semester--halfway done!). Many people have midterms this week, but due to my somewhat relaxed schedule (only three classes that aren't performance-based), I haven't had any yet. My Modern Novel professor informed us at the start of the year that he does not give midterms or finals. Oh well! And as far as Theory/Aural Skills, I might have an extremely small midterm (realizing figured bass at sight with good voice leading) coming up, but not for another two weeks or so.
I am still disliking the two choral groups the school placed me in; in Rep. Singers (made up of mostly freshman/sophomore piano majors, a handful of organists, and most of the freshman female vocalists) we are preparing for our first concert, which takes place this Friday. It will not be fantastic, by far. It is interesting how hard it is for such talented keyboardists to sing musically. I am lucky that I developed that skill more or less at the same time as when I learned to play piano proficiently. In the other group, ERC (the large choral society with plenty of grandmas and grandpas mixed in), we are still making extremely slow progress on our two pieces. Unfortunately, those two hours of rehearsal are one of the most dreaded parts of my week. It is frustrating to be chastised for not being more engaged and enthusiastic when we're placed in the group not by choice. Also, if I was singled out to sing my part alone, I am confident that I could do so with good accuracy. Once I've learned the notes, the musical expression makes sense and comes quickly, so the two hours of listening to the conductor repeat himself and pound out notes can be a little dull. That is the snobby "Eastman-quality" musician coming out in me, I guess. I can see that it is a good experience to sing in a choir as an organist, because I will likely direct one in the future, but I can't say I see myself directing a group of 150 anytime soon. We'll see!
The third choir I'm in, the Christ Church Schola Cantorum, is awesome. The repertoire is mostly known to me, but I am happy to sing anything with these people- they are all extremely musical (they know how to sing, also, which is a plus!), and the sound we make is pretty sick! We sing Compline every Sunday, and we will tour next month to sing a concert at another university nearby. It should be fun. I look forward to rehearsals, and it is rejuvenating to sing music that I enjoy with people who love it in the same way I do.
Harpsichord is coming along, as is organ. I am dutifully practicing my piano scales everyday, as well. Getting good grades in my English class, too. Golly gee, college isn't so bad. Definitely a lot more enjoyable than last year!!!
Also, the leaves are beautiful outside. Here's a pic to leaf you with:
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