The room was dark, except for a small area of light around the harp. I had come out onto the stage with one purpose--to draw the audience into a musical story so compelling that everyone in the entire performance hall would listen.
I was already halfway through the piece when the voices of doubt started to intrude. “What if you haven’t practiced enough?” “Don’t make a mistake!” The truth was, if I focused on weaving the musical story those thoughts would fade away. Bringing my attention to the present, I performed a wild and impressive passage, followed by the most delicate moment of the piece. As the notes whispered into the air, the audience was completely silent, breathlessly waiting for the next turn of music. At that moment I knew I had accomplished my goal. My audience had become a part of the story. It took many years of practice to reach that moment. My longtime harp teacher, Elizabeth Richter, believed in my potential and guided me as I learned to use music as a language of expression. Today I pass the legacy of those who influenced my musical development to my students and audiences.
I invite you to be a part of that journey! |