After a nice break for Thanksgiving, things are back in full swing for the end of the semester and the holiday season. This time of year is usually quite busy for musicians and especially brass players, and with the end of the semester coming up it makes for a very full schedule. I’m thankful for the work, of course, but such a packed schedule requires that I fight my natural inclination to waste time and instead focus on short, efficient practice sessions.  Here’s some of my upcoming performances over the next few weeks.

• November 29th: Faculty Recital, Music for Horn by Jan Koetsier
• December  2nd: Rapides Symphony Concert
• December 4th: Black Bayou Brass Christmas Concert
• December 5-7: Black Bayou Brass tour (Southern Louisiana)
• December 8: Monroe Symphony Concert
• December 15-16: Shreveport Symphony Concert
• December 17-19: Recording Session, Music of Jan Koetsier

In addition to rehearsals and performances, there are juries to hear, exams to grade, and various kinds of paperwork involved in wrapping up the semester. If this seems excessive, I’m sure it’s nothing compared to what full time orchestral players and top freelancers in major cities do. For me, though, it’s just about the limit of what I can comfortably take on and still put forth my best effort. Finding this balance is an important issue for students to deal with during their college years, as life often gets busier afterwards. I really wanted to play for The Nutcracker this year, but it just wasn’t possible with the other obligations in my schedule.

To all my colleagues out there who are doing the same thing, I wish you safe travels, great chops, and lots of relaxation time afterwards!