This week started out with a totally unexpected bang -- I got see the President of the United States of America!Yes, I took that picture.
Unfortunately, I didn't know I would get to see the President, so I didn't have my good camera. I got a last minute ticket. Luckily, my department has a camera that I took with me. But, the camera wasn't charged and only took seven pictures! Talk about good news, bad news.
Regardless of the camera situation, getting to see the President speak was very exciting!
My new-old violin got to play in a quintet (2 violins, viola, cello, and harpsichord) the Sunday before Thanksgiving. It was AWESOME! I love playing chamber music, especially with a harpsichord. If I had room and money, I'd have a harpsichord (and a soundproof room for Jamie's sake).
The one time of year that I hate the crappy economy the most is at Christmas. I only have one gig this year, and I only had one gig last year. The first few Christmases after I graduated college I could easily get six or seven gigs. With the economy in the dumps, fewer people want to hire musicians to play for parties, open houses, ect. But, I am very thankful for the one gig I have -- it just wouldn't be Christmas without playing Christmas music somewhere! I've played for this particular church's Christmas cantata for at least five years. It's a no-pressure job where I'm one of only two violins trying to be heard over 8-10 brass and woodwind players. Plus, I get to play second fiddle to my favorite violin buddy.
I'm looking forward to winding down the fall semester and gearing up for the holiday break. The best part about working for a college is Christmas break! Free vacation time! Woohoo!
