Of Various Things and Sundry

Dear Blog Readers,

I wish to inform you the reason for the lack of picture-posting lately, viz. (1) our desktop is down, (2) therefore, our laptop has become our main computer, (3) I have not figured out how to post pictures using the Adobe software on our laptop! Ahem...

Things are staying very busy for me. I am acquiring several new piano students of varying ages and abilities. Until now I have only worked with beginners. It is precious to invest in the lives of these younger ones (or older beginners too!), but I must say that I have appreciated being able to teach someone who is more advanced. :-) Plans are under way for an autumn recital - and I hope to be able to put together some "one piano, four hands" music (either two students, or myself and a student).

The orchestra which I mentioned in another post has progressed wonderfully, and is now officially named the Northern Illinois Christian Youth Orchestra! The students are attentive and hard-working, and despite the wide pendulum between ages and talents, the Caswell family has very skilfully put together a system of levels. The Festival orchestra includes everybody - even some early beginners who have been given a simplified part. The Jubilee is made up of those in the Festival who can be "pushed" to greater heights musically and technically - of course for some it's a greater challenge than others. Finally, we have put together a Chamber string ensemble of nine players, who are working on harder literature.

I have been thrilled to work with such an outstanding representation of home schooled musicians. From the cute seven-year-old young man playing his little cello to the concertmaster calibur, each is striving for excellence and I am proud of them. For those of you who would like to support this project, NICYO is accepting donations to help offset expenses. The founding directors, Dan and Beth Caswell, may be reached at vb.academy (at) hughes (dot) net. But financial support is not the only way you can encourage these young people. You can come to the concert and hear the fruits of their labors over the summer!

Northern Illinois Christian Youth Orchestra

Summer Concert

Saturday, August 15, 2009 at 7:30

St. John United Church of Christ - Fellowship Hall

1010 S. Park Blvd., Freeport IL

Doors will open around 7:00 - admission is free, but donations will be accepted!

It has been a joy to see the blossoming relationship between our grandmother and our soon-to-be grandpa! They will be married in approximately four weeks! I am so pleased to have another godly, gentlemanly grandpa. Busy times - looking for dresses, preparing music, practicing organ, etc.