Do you love audiobooks? I do! My first two just hit Audible! I narrated them myself, and had a lot of fun with the character voices. The new one is coming soon, so now is a great chance to catch up!
My Audiobooks Available Online!
The Music of Houses, with Author Mary A Felkins
Meet Mary A. Felkins
I’m an inspirational romance author, blogger, and contributor to writerโs blogs and online publications. My swoony debut novel, Call to Love, delivers a good bit of hilarity, passion, and truth.
A Lone Star girl at heart, I moved with my husband Bruce in 1997 from Houston to the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains of North Carolina.… Read More...
New Updates, ACFW Conference Photos, and Giveaway Winner
Hello music friends,
I apologize that it has been a few weeks since I posted! With the start of school I needed to prepare for teaching Spanish as well as music this year. I am really enjoying my time teaching!
I also had the pleasure of attending the ACFW conference this past weekend, where I made several new friends, met up with critique partners, and learned from some of the best experts in Christian fiction!… Read More...
The Songs That Could Have Been-Interview and Giveaway With Musician/Author Amanda Wen
Professional musician, native of Wichita, Kansas, and inspirational fiction author who shares my same maiden name, Amanda Wen is an author I personally couldn’t wait to interview! Listen to the end for a special performance by Amanda and me as we “hymnprovise” on Amazing Grace!
Although surprisingly we aren’t related, she’s a kindred spirit whose books ring true and strike a chord that resonates with me, and countless other readers as well.… Read More...
Merci! Late On The Draw-Hamildrop (Audio Version)
I wanted to say a quick thank you to my podcast listeners! Like you, I’m an audiophile myself. I don’t know what I’d do without my favorite podcast creators and music playlists!
I especially wanted to say “merci” to all my fabulous French listeners!… Read More...
“Borod-in” Class
Cellist Jerry Chang is bored in class due to the repetitive nature of his music. What’s the point in playing an instrument if he’s stuck accompanying Franklin, the uppity first violinist? Even the second violinist and violist, the pretty Pearson sisters, seem ready for a change in tune. When Jerry suggests they play a song by the Romantic composer Borodin, the girls jump at the opportunity.… Read More...
Return to Mozart
Get a “Hรคndel” on It this Easter Season!
Violinist Karen dominates the music scene at Belton University until a transfer student usurps her position and forces Karen to play โsecond fiddle,โ much to her chagrin. When the unforeseen happens during their performance of Handelโs Messiah, will Karen do what it takes to save the performance?
Podcast: Play in new window | Download… Read More...
Work to Live, or Live to Work?
I loved Kristi Ann Hunter’s recent release, Enchanting the Heiress! It has a fun, Pride and Prejudice vibe. Lots of great banter! It also addresses the theme of working to make a living, or living for the work you do. This is one that I plan to explore further in my next novel!… Read More...
Surface Pressure Viola Cover, from the Movie Encanto
If your house is anything like mine, we’ve been OBSESSED with the recent Disney feature film Encanto. As a Spanish teacher, musician, sister, and mom, I loved it!
The perennial theme of family and how different people find their place within their family really resonated with me. I liked that the three sisters each possessed their own distinct personalities, while still learning to get along with each other.… Read More...
Paganini and Passion
In 2013, the film The Devilโs Violinist portrayed the life and career of Niccolรฒ Paganini, the famous 19th century virtuoso whose compositions are so challenging even the devil might have a run for his money! He had a disease that caused his fingers and limbs to be exceptionally long. Paganiniโs intense popularity, bravado, love of violin and guitar, and lascivious behavior made him the rock star of his century, earning him the title โthe devilโs violinist.โ… Read More...
No Strings Attached on Valentine’s Day
Finding a date for Valentine’s Day may not be easy for everyone. Especially a couple of musicians who have unusual musical tastes.
I realize this phrase doesnโt always have the purest connotations, but as a romance writer, parent, and teacher I decided to read a couple of books on the topic.… Read More...
The Power of Listening-Music, Podcasts, and Audiobooks
As a musician, I have been trained ever since a very young age to rely on my ear. This skill has translated into so many areas of my life, including.
- Learning music
- Improvising music
- Educating myself via podcasts while multi-tasking
- Enjoying stories on audiobook
This past week, I enjoyed listening to my writing mentor K.M.… Read More...
A Look at the Luthier’s: Like Hoarders!
I find luthier shops to be very fascinating. They’re the string doctors of my profession. If a stringed instrument needs fixed or adjusted, this is who to visit.
I’ve visited a number of luthiers over the course of my career, and they’ve all had a big thing in common. Their shops always look like a set out of a Hoarders show!… Read More...
My Thoughts on the Enneagram
After a half-year hiatus, I’ve finally released my Enneagram 2 skit: The Helper Musician. It was fun to tap into violin teacher mode. I hope you enjoy it!
Stay tuned for my music video for my Enneagram 1 character, coming 2022!
Podcast: Play in new window | Download… Read More...
The Scene You’ve Been Waiting For…
I’m sure you’ve all been waiting on the edge of your seats for this chapter, lol. Do Jerry and Victoria finally get together?
Listen to find out…
Chapter 21
Today’s episode is sponsored by Jerry Chang’s super suave collection. Who doesn’t love the hunky hero of the novel?… Read More...
Rarely Too Young, and Never Too Old
Hippo Christmas!
I know I’ve been a little post-happy this season, but Christmas is definitely my favorite time of year! And I figured some people need more fun music and podcasts to listen to while holiday baking, cleaning, and traveling! (And when I say some people, I’m including myself. So if you’re a musician or podcaster, send your posts my way!… Read More...
Music of the Harp-Interview with Bestselling Author Angela Breidenbach with Full Series Christmas Giveaway!
Bonus Holiday Episode! Listen to our interview where Angela shares how music has played a role in her family and fiction!
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Calista Blythe enters the first Miss Snowflake Pageant celebrating Montana at Christmastime to expose the plight of street urchins.… Read More...
Christmas Glee Club-El Club Glee de Navidad
Sophia, the lead soprano of the Belton Glee Club, faces losing her celebrity date to the sorority formal due to a required concert for the university donors. When the lead tenor falls sick with laryngitis, Brett fills in for his role as Santa. Can Sophia and Brett pull off the concert together at the last minute?… Read More...
O Holy Night-Special Edition
Ever since I can remember, my mother would sing โO Holy Nightโ every year in our family Christmas shows. As a result, it has always been my favorite Christmas carol. Last year, I was honored to direct and produce a music video of this hymn in collaboration with my sister musical group Uptown Violins. … Read More...
New Music For the Holidays-Author Marie Sontag
I enjoy music, especially when it feeds my soul. I also love books. How much more powerful is the draw on my emotions when a dramatic piece of music also paints a story!
This month, Dvoลรกkโs American Quartet did that for me. Click HERE for full article.
Podcast: Play in new window | Download… Read More...
Embrace Your Family
Jerry lifted Victoria’s chin with his finger. โYou need to embrace your family.โ
She reached out to stroke his cheek. โAnd maybe you should stand up to yours.”
Podcast: Play in new window | Download… Read More...
Chapter 15-Don’t Fiddle With My Coffee
In spite of it being Monday night, people crammed into every corner of Cafรฉ Chocolat. A strong scent of espresso filled the air. Victoria glanced at the stage where the guys were setting up. The guitarist, Matt, wore a checkered flannel shirt and cowboy boots, while Eddie sported a T-shirt and jeans.… Read More...
Chapter 14-Auditions (And Thank You Mug Giveaway Winners!)
In the dingy hallway outside the audition room, Victoria slipped on gloves to keep her fingers warm. The orchestra auditions were running forty-five minutes late, which allowed too much time for her hands to grow cold. The committee had decided to hear the violins last. The cellists had finished hours ago.… Read More...
Chapter 13: Dueling Violins
In spite of their rivalry, Victoria and Adrienne attempt to perform together like when they were little. Can they put aside their differences for a few minutes to play together? Or will the cat claws emerge?
Fact or Fiction?
Growing up, I loved reading authors of autobiographical fiction. My favorite, of course, was Louisa May Alcott’s legendary Little Women. She drew from her real life to create memorable, realistic characters that have charmed readers for centuries.
Another that inspired me, Laura Ingalls Wilder, wrote her Little House series based on her own autobiography.… Read More...
Chapter 12: Band Brothers
The guys stir up trouble for Victoria as she broods on her current dilemma.
I’ve opened up my whole merch store for the holidays. I hope you check out the fun character designs!
Podcast: Play in new window | Download… Read More...
Chapter 11: Sisters, Sisters
Victoria shares a sweet moment with Louisa as they try to decide what concerto Victoria should play for the competition. However, the sweetness is gone the next day when Adrienne barges in to borrow clothes, and Victoria makes a shocking discovery.
Last chance to get your Halloween merch!
Podcast: Play in new window | Download… Read More...
Chapter 10: Costumes, Coffee, and Competition
After the dramatic turn of events from the last chapter, the quartet reconvenes at the coffeeshop: Cafรฉ Chocolat.
Podcast: Play in new window | Download… Read More...
The Spookiest Classical Music
Check out the list and descriptions of my favorite Halloween songs from my previous blog post!
Don’t forget to buy your Christmas gift for the cynical musician in your life!!!! LOL.
Podcast: Play in new window | Download… Read More...
Villainous Violinists
While violinists may often portray angelic voices, this isn’t always the case. Consider Niccolo Paganini, the infamous Romantic era rock star who allegedly sold his soul to the devil! Or Satan himself when he takes on Johnny in “The Devil Went Down to Georgia.” Fortunately Johnny wins!
In this week’s Fiction Fridays, I focus on my villain, violinist Franklin Curtis.… Read More...
Back to Bach
After all the excitement of launch, it has taken me a little while to reset, but it’s time to return to some of our favorite composers!
Johann Sebastian Bach (1685-1750) is the most well-known composer of the Baroque period, and one of the most famous composers of all time! He played many roles throughout his life, including composer, church organist, husband, and father to twenty children!… Read More...
“Bach” from the Grave/ “Bach” de la Tumba
It’s October!!! Are you in the mood for some spooky classical music?
This week’s sponsor is my new Merch store on Zazzle!!
Podcast: Play in new window | Download… Read More...
Book Launch Party- Meet the Family!
I was thrilled to have my family on the show to celebrate my new book, along with our amazing host Lindsey P. Brackett! Thanks to all of you who came and participated. I have been blown away by all of your love and support!
For more information about our family music business, check out Uptown Violins!… Read More...
Favorite Scene: Chapter 7
When I’ve asked people their favorite scene from the book, this one tops the charts! It also happens to be my favorite as well…
Tonight, meet the real life Strings of Sisterhood! Click Here to attend on Facebook!
Podcast: Play in new window | Download… Read More...
Chapter 6
Audio version
Podcast: Play in new window | Download… Read More...
Traditional vs. Contemporary?
Historical or Contemporary Fiction?
Classical or Pop Music?
Traditional or Contemporary Worship?
Conservative or Liberal?
This debate is centuries old, and pops up in almost every field.Where do you fall on the spectrum? And is there room for a middle ground?
Join me in celebrating book launch for A Change in Tune!… Read More...
A Change in Tune: Chapter 5
Audiobook sample
Podcast: Play in new window | Download… Read More...
To Be or Not To Be a Teacher?
Do you want to be a performer or a teacher? Or both? The same applies to a scholar, a teacher, or both?
Reading for next week:
Podcast: Play in new window | Download… Read More...
Labor Day Book Baby is Here! Early Paperback Release
After a long labor, I’m having a book baby! After years of waiting, multiple drafts, revisions, tears, and several days of nearly giving up, my first novel is finally here! And thanks to you all, it’s already the #1 New Release in the Teen & Young Adult Music Fiction category.
If you have enjoyed my work so far and you want to help share our love of music to others, please help me spread the word.… Read More...
Music Fiction Fridays: Discussion- A Change in Tune, Ch. 1
Sneak Peak of A Change in Tune: Chapter 1
I’m so excited to share a sneak preview with you all of my upcoming release: A Change in Tune!
I hope you like it, and I can’t wait to hear your feedback. Enjoy!
Featured Listening for this Chapter: Tchaikovsky Violin Concerto in D Major
Podcast: Play in new window | Download… Read More...
Music Fiction Fridays: Discussion-A Change in the Winds
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A Change in the Winds
Listening for next week: Dvorak Symphony No. 8
This week’s Music Book Club is sponsored by The Chronicles of Music Majors
Brandon clamped his large fingers around the thick neck of his six-foot upright bass.… Read More...
Music Book Club: Fiction Fridays/Because Fiction Interview
For more about my book A Change in Tune, check out my interview with Chautona Havig, the hilarious host of the Because Fiction podcast! Click HERE for the full post! (Please forgive the bad audio on my part! I was having mic trouble that day.)
With the approach of the new school year, as well as my upcoming book release, I am launching my own Music Book Club: Fiction Fridays.… Read More...
Title and Cover Reveal for Music Novel
A Change in Tune:The Strings of Sisterhood, Vol. 1
Violinist Victoria Pearson dreams of attending Johann Conservatory of Music in New York City for graduate school. As the oldest of five sisters, she hopes to escape her Midwestern college town and hectic family situation to fulfill her passion in lifeโmusic. But when she decides to participate in Belton University’s Concerto competition to bolster her chances of acceptance, Victoria finds herself competing against her sister Adrienne and lifelong cellist friend Jerry Chang.… Read More...
Music in Story-Telling, with Author/Educator Amy Walsh
Interview with Author Amy Walsh, from Walsh Mountain Publishing
Hello Amy, Iโm thrilled to have you on the blog today. What inspired you to become a writer?
As far back as I can remember, I loved reading about imaginary worlds and creating my own.ย My brothers and I grew up without a television, so we spent our days playacting indoors and out.ย … Read More...
4: The Individualist Musician
*Research from the Enneagram Institute
Fours are self-aware, sensitive, and reserved. They are emotionally honest, creative, and personal, but can also be moody and self-conscious. Withholding themselves from others due to feeling vulnerable and defective, they can also feel disdainful and exempt from ordinary ways of living. They typically have problems with melancholy, self-indulgence, and self-pity.… Read More...
Using Your Teaching Skills as a Writer
This week I was honored to be on The Daily Writer Podcast to talk with host Kent Sanders about the importance of stories in teaching. We also take a deeper dive into the creation of short stories.
FREE epubs of The Chronicles of Music Majors this month for Student/Teacher Appreciation! Feel free to share with fellow students/colleagues!… Read More...
#6: The Loyal Musician
For all my author friends, this girl is for you!
*Research from the Enneagram Institute
“The committed, security-oriented type. Sixes are reliable, hard-working, responsible, and trustworthy. Excellent “troubleshooters,” they foresee problems and foster cooperation, but can also become defensive, evasive, and anxiousโrunning on stress while complaining about it.… Read More...
#7: The Enthusiast Musician
Bring on the life of the party! Enneagram 7’s are a blast!
*Research from the Enneagram Institute
“Sevens are extroverted, optimistic, versatile, and spontaneous. Playful, high-spirited, and practical, they can also misapply their many talents, becoming over-extended, scattered, and undisciplined. They constantly seek new and exciting experiences, but can become distracted and exhausted by staying on the go.… Read More...
Cover Reveal: The Chronicles of Music Majors
Now available for ebook preorder! Stay tuned for paperback release dates.
E-mail me with your receipt, and I’ll send you an autographed postcard of The Chronicles of Music Majors and an invitation to join my Music Fiction Book Club!
The Chronicles of Music Majors
Les Chroniques des Majors de la Musique
Las Crรณnicas de las Mayores de Mรบsica
Le Cronache delle Major Musicali
Original artwork by artist Heather Deiter.… Read More...
Is “No Strings Attached” a Good Thing?
I realize this phrase doesn’t always have the purest connotations, but as a romance writer, parent, and teacher I decided to read a couple of books on the topic. In an age when the marriage rate has plummeted and many are simply not getting married, how can we encourage people to date and eventually marry in healthy ways?… Read More...
#8: The Challenger Musician
If you haven’t yet, check out my introduction to the enneagram musicians series!
*Research from the Enneagram Institute
“Eights are self-confident, strong, and assertive. Protective, resourceful, straight-talking, and decisive, but can also be ego-centric and domineering. Eights feel they must control their environment, especially people, sometimes becoming confrontational and intimidating.… Read More...
#9: The Peacemaker Musician
For a fun twist, I’m starting my introduction to enneagram musicians with 9 and working down to 1 over the next several months. Stay tuned!
*Research from The Enneagram Institute
“Nines are accepting, trusting, and stable. They are usually creative, optimistic, and supportive, but can also be too willing to go along with others to keep the peace.… Read More...
Enneagram Musicians Series
Happy New Year, music friends! I wanted to share a little about the new series of posts I’m launching in 2021.
A couple of years ago, I listened to K.M. Weiland’s writing podcast episode on how authors can use the enneagram to help type characters. At the time, I was still in the planning stages of my novel, so this appealed to me as a way to make my characters more real.… Read More...
Beethoven’s 250th Anniversary
To close out the year, I thought it fitting to honor one of the greatest composers of all time. This month, classical music aficionados around the world are celebrating Beethoven’s 250th birthday.
I was thrilled to be featured by Applause to the Musician for Beethoven’s Duet in C Major with cellist Chet Lord-Remmert.… Read More...
From Book to Ballet: The Story of St. Nicholas
This week, I had the privilege of speaking with Eric Elder: author, musician, composer, and director of The Ranch ministry!
Several years ago, he wrote St. Nicholas: The Believer, about the man now known as Santa Claus. The book really touched me as I read about the saint’s treatment of the sick during the plague.… Read More...
Christmas Glee Club
Sweet Contemporary Romance: FREE through Friday, December 11, on Amazon Kindle! I am offering $5 Amazon gift cards to the first person in each language to send me a message with their comments. I am especially interested in whether or not you like the content, and what you thought of the AI translation.… Read More...
Get a “Hรคndel” on It: Audiobook release!
Now that Christmas season is here, I wanted to release the audiobook version of my previously published short story “Get a ‘Hรคndel’ on It.”
Stay tuned next week for my newest short story, “Christmas Glee Club!”
I Want to Write, but Where Do I Start?
Many people want to write, whether it’s a blog, a book, a musical composition, or an annual Christmas letter. But where do you begin?
This week I had the privilege of serving on an author roundtable for the podcast The Daily Writer, hosted by Kent Sanders.
Kent, Eric, and I are all musician/authors, and we were joined by my fellow inspirational author Mary Felkins.… Read More...
What Does it Feel Like to Be a Classical Musician?
This week, I was thrilled to speak with Jerry Pollio from Applause to the Musician about the wonderful profession of being a classical musician. We delved into many of the career opportunities it affords, as well as how to keep it relevant and thriving in our 21st-century society.
I hope you’ll check it out, and please share feedback with more ideas on how to make classical music accessible for listeners today!… Read More...
My Story Behind the Music
Music has played a significant role in my life since before I can remember, weaving its melodies into the fabric of my identity. My mother, a violinist and singer by trade, began to teach me violin at the age of two. She taught my four younger sisters to play the instrument at a young age as well.… Read More...
“Bach” from the Grave
Check out the music playlist!
Freshman bassoonist Adam Heckel faces hazing in the music fraternity at Belton University while organist Miguel Guzmรกn struggles to overcome the pain of his past while preparing music for All Saints Day. When the two friends cross paths in an eerie locale Halloween night, will they finally find the brotherhood they both desperately need?… Read More...
Violin Book Club: The Main Dish and more!
Like many of my fellow music teachers, I’m looking for new ways to connect with students and help them connect with each other. When I found Victoria Kimbleโs new Young Adult release The Main Dish with a violin featured on the front, I had to check it out.
As it turns out, Victoria must be my long-lost twin, considering we share a love of music, fiction, faith, and sisters.… Read More...
Brass at the Beach
For all my romance readers, here’s a summer romantic comedy that takes place on the French island of Guadeloupe. Available on Kindle. Audiobook available on YouTube.
Etta, a tuba player for the Belton University Symphony, is forced to face her fear of the ocean when the orchestra travels to the Caribbean for a concert.… Read More...
Ruth Scheer: Children’s Book Author
Mother of ten, grandmother, great-grandmother, fellow musician, author, and the person who taught me how to be a writer, this larger-than-life person has inspired so many people over the course of nearly a century. Today, Iโm honored to talk with my own Grandmother, Ruth Scheer.
Grandma, how did you begin your writing career?… Read More...
Vicky Weber: Music Storyteller at Heart
Vicky Weber is a musician and an elementary educator with a love for childrenโs literature. While she has taught a variety of grade levels, primary level education is where her passion lies. It has long been a dream of hers to teach children through the magic of books and she hopes you love reading her works as much as she loved writing them.… Read More...
Senior Recitals
A year ago, I had the privilege of returning to my Alma Mater to attend my youngest sister’s collegiate senior recital. The entire performance was phenomenal! I was such a proud big sister. Her professor, Dr. Eka Gogichashvili, taught all four of my sisters and me over a sixteen-year time span.… Read More...
A Change in the Winds: Part 2
Check out this music fiction Audiobook on my YouTube channel! If you like this short story, please give it a thumbs up and hit subscribe!
If you prefer to read the story and need Part 1, click here to subscribe. If you’re already subscribed, click here. Password: getebook
Part 2
The following night, Francesca slipped into a blue dress and matching heels.… Read More...
Get a โHรคndelโ on It
My short story “Get a ‘Hรคndel’ on It” from The Chronicles of Music Majors series is available today on Amazon!
I hope you check it out on Kindle. If you don’t already have Kindle, you can download the app on any device, including your phone. This will allow you to see the music links which I include to accompany the story.… Read More...
Interview with RB Hayek Productions
This week, I was honored to be featured for the Author Spotlight on RB Hayek Productions.
In the interview, I talk about the role of family on my family, as well as the relationship between music and foreign language pedagogy.
Robert Hayek writes:
“Learning how to play an instrument and learning a different language are two of the most difficult concepts to many people.… Read More...
The Ivory Touch: The Chronicles of Music Majors, Short Story No. 2
Pauline, a senior piano major at Belton University, nearly lives at the music school as she prepares for her capstone recital. Her boyfriend Trenton, a jazz trumpet player, convinces her to perform an insane duet with him for the final number. While they dedicate themselves to rehearsals, the Coronavirus sweeps the globe.… Read More...
A Change in the Winds: The Chronicles of Music Majors, Short Story No. 1
Brandon, a sophomore bass player at Belton University, grows bored playing the same repetitive lines at the back of the orchestra. He rouses from his stupor when an attractive flutist plays a beautiful solo from the fourth movement of Dvorak’s Symphony No. 8. How can Brandon attract her attention without raising the ire of the conductor?… Read More...
Music Novel Review: A Note Yet Unsung- Tamera Alexander
At heart, she was a violinist. No other instrument, for her at least, could capture the strains of the soulโs deepest yearnings and desires, its bitterest disappointments and losses. โ Tamera Alexander: A Note Yet Unsung (2017)
I first read Alexander‘s book shortly after its release in 2017 and loved it!… Read More...
Poem of Christmas Carols
Merry Christmas! I’m having an amazing time celebrating with my whole family. We don’t all live in the same city, so it is such a joy to be together. While here at my parents’ house I ran across a poem I wrote 15 years ago that combines several famous Christmas songs.