Music and Much More
Music has been a part of my life for as long as I can remember. I honestly don’t know life without it. My great-great grandfather played fiddle in a country band. My grandmother was a pianist/organist/composer. My mother is a violinist and vocalist. My mother-in-law is a pianist. All four of my sisters and I are violinists.… Read More...
In today’s episode, I interview special guest Kent Sanders, who helped write The Faith of Elvis with Elvis’s stepbrother Billy Stanley. Find out more about the behind-the-scenes life of the King of Rock n’ Roll!
Billy Stanley, Elvis Presley’s stepbrother, shares the untold story of the iconic singer’s Christian faith–its deep influence on his music, films, relationships, commitment to his family and fans, and his love for the Gospel.… Read More...
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...
With school just around the corner and music lessons are starting back up, I know I need a pep talk as a teacher and music mom to get my students and children back in musical shape. And who better to ask for advice than my own mom, violinist and vocalist, veteran violin teacher, and mother of five professional violinists!… Read More...
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...
I hope you enjoy this interview with my aunt and former violin teacher, Valerie Sullivan. She helped me prepare for competitions and college auditions, with great success I might add! Check out her tips of the trade!
Even if you’re not a music teacher, you might enjoy learning a little about what it takes to be a professional violinist.… Read More...
Thanks sooooo much for all of your support in my musical journey. I’m excited to let you know that my 3 singles: Amazing Grace/Sublime Gracia/La Grace du Ciel are now live! I’d be honored to have you listen in whichever language you prefer (or all 3)!
If you haven’t yet, sign-up to Music Updates for access:
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Composed by Philip Parker
Performed by Ashley Rescot on Violin and Valerie Sullivan on piano
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A couple of weeks ago, my mother Allison and I taught a summer music camp for beginning violinists, and we were thrilled to invite Kim and Phil as guest musicians to teach our string players about other instruments in the orchestra. The students couldn’t believe how many household items could be turned into percussion instruments!… Read More...
Today, in honor of the French holiday Bastille Day, July 14, 1789, I wanted to share music by a couple of the lesser-known French composers, Lili Boulanger (1893-1918) and Joseph Bologne (1745-1799). Thank you again to all my French listeners! After living in France, your country will forever hold a special place in my heart.… Read More...
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...
I hope you all have a happy Father’s Day! I’m always blown away by my Dad’s quite wisdom. I really enjoyed spending the holiday with him a couple of years ago when I filmed this. I can’t wait to see him again in a couple of weeks!
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I’m on vacation with my family, but I thought this interview was worth revisiting!
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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...
Happy 5 de Mayo!
This year, I am celebrating again with piñatas, chips and salsa, and Mexican music as I teach foreign language at my children’s school! I love to see the joy in the students’ faces as they discover different cultures.
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Have you ever been surprised by someone who said that they couldn’t speak another language, but you found out that they could actually read it really well? Or have you been confused when meeting a musician who admitted she couldn’t read music? Welcome to the audio vs. visual debate!
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Violinist Karen dominates the music scene at Belton University until a transfer student usurps her position and forces Karen to play “second fiddle,” much to her chagrin. When the unforeseen happens during their performance of Handel’s Messiah, will Karen do what it takes to save the performance?
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As an aficionado of French and Music, it doesn’t get much better than Debussy!
Claude Debussy wrote his Violin Sonata in G Minor in 1917, near the end of his life. The unusual harmonies deviate from his earlier impressionistic works, like the famous piano Arabesques composed during the Impressionist era.
I hope you enjoy this little taste of French music composed during the early twentieth century!… Read More...
I hope you enjoy my recording of the this springtime classic.
American Jazz Violin Hit Song with Ukrainian/Russian Roots
Paul Nero, a mid-twentieth-century composer known for his hot violin jazz tunes, made a splash in 1949 with his successful song, The Hot Canary. This hilarious hit would have been the talk of Twitter, full of bird tweets and trills throughout.… Read More...
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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...
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. French horn player Terrence makes it his mission to help Etta become more comfortable with the sea. Will Etta find a way to be noticed in spite of her position at the back of the orchestra?… Read More...
Family, Fiction, and an adorable violin as the main character? How could I resist this fabulous children’s book by music teacher/author Courtney Woodward?
A fellow music fiction author with an amazing passion for bringing music education to students of all ages and stages, I had a blast chatting with Courtney today!… Read More...
–Excerpt by Author/Podcast Host Kent Sanders. Click HERE for the episode!
“I’ve always been fascinated by personality assessments and typology. If you’ve been paying attention the last decade or two, the Enneagram has been the tool of choice for many people. A lot of organizations, companies, and churches use it to help people better understand themselves, and to enhance teamwork, as well.… Read More...
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...
I had a wonderful time speaking with author Esther Pannebaker about the role music has played in her life. She particularly emphasized the importance of the pauses in music, which can make the difference between a mediocre performance and a stellar, emotionally satisfying experience.
The Divine Fermata
f r m d /fermata
noun MUSIC
In 2013, the film The Devil’s Violinist portrayed the life and career of Niccolò 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. Paganini’s intense popularity, bravado, love of violin and guitar, and lascivious behavior made him the rock star of his century, earning him the title “the devil’s violinist.”… Read More...
Happy Valentine’s Day! I couldn’t resist sharing this again with you all. I hope you’re having fun with family, friends, or another special musician in your life!
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I’m curious to see which cover you guys prefer, the existing one, or this original one that features more of the red? Or do you prefer the cartoon style like The Chronicles of Music Majors?The Red Violinists was also my originally working title. This chapter shows why…
I was also inspired by the movie, The Red Violin.… Read More...
Are you someone who likes to try everything? Do you delve into research, or learn by experiencing new things for yourself? Or, do you prefer to stick with what is comfortable and familiar?
Do you struggle with performance anxiety? Want some techniques to combat it?
Let’s delve into these three Enneagram types to see if you relate.… Read More...
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 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.… Read More...
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.
This past week, I enjoyed listening to my writing mentor K.M.… Read More...
Today, we’re looking at how art and music play a huge role in books. If you haven’t already, take a listen to artist Heather Deiter’s interview about her role as a cover designer and illustrator!
For music, Christian Inspirational Author Esther Bandy shares how hymns have influenced her faith and writing.… Read More...
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...
Several years ago, I found out that my musical heritage dates back to my Grandpa Scheer’s grandfather. Apparently Granfather Panter McIlvain played the fiddle in a country band, performing for dances and parties in his town. He passed on his violin to his grandson, Harold, who gave it to his own children to learn.… Read More...
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!
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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...
I can’t believe I wrote this short story nearly two years, at the start of the pandemic. It feels appropriate after the passing this week of my own Grandmother, a wonderful pianist/author to the end.
Pauline, a senior piano major at Belton University, nearly lives at the music school as she prepares for her capstone recital.… Read More...
Farewell to a Legend A legend died today, I know It’s hard to comprehend. That after nearly a century Your era came to end. You taught me how to write in verse When I was just a girl. The words would form within my mind Then on the page unfurl. Your love of music, poetry, And all creative things, Developed deep within your soul, Then flew on feathered wings.… Read More...
Last night, I watched old videos of the ball drop in New York City. I’ve never been there for New Year’s Eve, but I’m sure it would be a lot of fun!
I’ve only been to New York once, when my mom had the chance to perform in Carnegie Hall.… Read More...
2022 Goals:
Release the audiobook versions of my two books
Release new music video mashup for the audiobook release
Chat with more authors about the role music plays in their stories
2021 Goals Accomplished:
Released The Chronicles of Music Majors in the Spring
Released A Change in Tune in the Fall
Started the Music Fiction Podcast!… Read More...
First of all, I wanted to thank you all for being incredible supporters of me this year. It’s been incredibly busy, with the release of my first two books, The Chronicles of Music Majors in the Spring, and A Change in Tune in the fall.… Read More...
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...
It’s our final week of Christmas Carols! I hope you’ve enjoyed this musical journey with me this season. It’s not too late to enter for a chance at the giveaway! Just subscribe to Rescot Creative and let me know which Christmas carol you enjoyed the most on one of my socials!… Read More...
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...
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...
Ready for Week 3 of Christmas Carols? This week features some of my favorites!
If you haven’t yet, don’t forget to subscribe and comment on one of my socials for a chance to win the I LOVE Christmas sweatshirt. And you’ll receive more fun music and fiction posts, of course!
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Ever since I can remember, my mother would sing “O Holy Night” 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...
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, Dvořák’s American Quartet did that for me. Click HERE for full article.
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I hope you’re enjoying your daily dose of Christmas music. Click this post for access to the full week of carols!
December 8: I Want A Stradivarius for Christmas
December 9: God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen
December 10: Deck the Halls
December 11: What Child is This
December 12: O Christmas Tree
December 13: Czech Carol (Bells Ringing in the Tower)
Don’t forget to let me know your favorite carol on one of my socials for a chance to win a I LOVE CHRISTMAS sweatshirt!… Read More...
Jerry lifted Victoria’s chin with his finger. “You need to embrace your family.”
She reached out to stroke his cheek. “And maybe you should stand up to yours.”
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I don’t know about you, but I LOVE CHRISTMAS MUSIC!
Now that it’s December, join me for 25 Days of Christmas Carols! Each day I will feature one of my favorite Christmas songs. Tell me which ones you like best on one of my socials (Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, Twitter, or YouTube) for a chance to win this fabulous sweatshirt!*… Read More...
In spite of it being Monday night, people crammed into every corner of Café 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...
Black Friday Sale! Great Deals this Week!
Santa’s Top 3 Favorite Books of All Time (He’s read each of these multiple times.)
Santa’s Current Read: The Last Book of the Poldark Series
Santa’s Favorite Poems: YouTube Playlist: Some A Bit Spooky!
Santa’s Role as Proofreader for A Change in Tune (He’s checked it more than twice!)… Read More...
Bonus episode!
Here’s a little fiddling Marie Pearson style, in case you need some peppy music on your way to celebrate Thanksgiving!
(I’m not actually shipping up to Boston, haha.)
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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...
My favorite composer of all time is Romantic-Era Frenchman Camille Saint-Saëns. The storytelling nature and emotive quality of his works have always resonated with me.
In my book A Change in Tune, protagonist Victoria finally decides to compete with the Saint-Saëns Violin Concerto No. 3 in B Minor (1880).
Today, I’m excited to share with you the LIVE VERSION of my 18-year-old self’s performance of the Saint-Saëns Violin Concerto, accompanied by my high school Youth Symphony!… Read More...
Both of my Grandmothers served as the inspiration for Gigi. They’re amazing nonagenarians and still enjoy music, history, and literature!
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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?
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...
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!
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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!
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I was thrilled to speak with Author/Suzuki teacher Christine Goodner from The Suzuki Triangle Blog/ Time to Practice Podcast! Click HERE for full episode!
If you haven’t yet, I highly recommend checking out Christine’s incredible resources for teachers and parents of musicians! I took one of her online courses a year ago, and it was incredible!… Read More...
After the dramatic turn of events from the last chapter, the quartet reconvenes at the coffeeshop: Café Chocolat.
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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.
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This chapter was inspired by my mother’s real life collegiate concert. Apparently, it took place at midnight on Halloween. The conductor rose out of a coffin dressed as Dracula!!!
Here she is featured with three of her sisters. All four of them have been my teacher at some point in my life!… Read More...
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...
Ahhh, Franklin… More on him in next week’s post!
Check out his featured design on my Merch store! All purchases help fund the cost of labor, editing, cover designs, and marketing involved in publication. Help me write book 2 in the series!
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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...
Thanks again everyone for your incredible support this month. I couldn’t have had such an amazing book launch without all of you!
I had an amazing time at the Book Signing event last Friday with live music performed by my wonderful quartet: Blackwater String Ensemble.
I am still waiting for results from the JustRead Blog Tour, but I will keep you posted once I am notified of the winners, who will each receive a signed copy of A Change in Tune, as well as a copy of another violin-related novel.… Read More...
It’s October!!! Are you in the mood for some spooky classical music?
This week’s sponsor is my new Merch store on Zazzle!!
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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...
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!
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Audio version
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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...
Audiobook sample
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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:
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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...
Have you ever wondered the difference? It’s not the instrument; it’s the way you play it. Check out this video to see how!
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Have you ever thought about the intersection of the arts? Do they all stem from a common place?
I was thrilled to philosophize about the nature of music with writer and podcaster John Biethan on his podcast What Has My Attention. I hope you enjoy it!
Your host John Biethan, President of Heard Not Seen Media, Inc.… Read More...
Grab a coffee and join me for a chat!
Episode sponsored by the kind brides and grooms who have hired strings this summer!
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Grab a coffee or hot chocolate at the local Cafe Chocolat, the French bistro near Belton University!
Listening: Pachelbel’s Cannon in D (Baroque wedding piece)
Comedic Rendition of Pachelbel’s Cannon in D: the 17th Century 1 hit wonder I couldn’t resist including this, even though as a violinist I still enjoy the song!… Read More...
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
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Here is: A Change in the Winds: audio version.
I apologize that I did not include the podcast version in my earlier post!
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For those of you who prefer to listen to your book club sessions…
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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...
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...
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 life—music. 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...
Interview with Author Amy Walsh, from Walsh Mountain Publishing
Hello Amy, I’m 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. My brothers and I grew up without a television, so we spent our days playacting indoors and out. … Read More...
Last weekend, I had the honor of celebrating my parents’ 40th wedding anniversary, and later this month my husband and I will celebrate our 10th anniversary. My youngest sister just got married a couple of months ago. Clearly, love is in the air!
As a surprise gift for my mother, my Grandma, sisters, aunts, and I displayed the beautiful wedding dress Mom and her sisters wore for their weddings, purchased by my Grandfather in Paris 50 years ago.… Read More...
Research from the Enneagram Institue
Threes are self-assured, attractive, and charming. Ambitious, competent, and energetic, they can also be status-conscious and highly driven for advancement. They are diplomatic and poised, but can also be overly concerned with their image and what others think of them. They typically have problems with workaholism and competitiveness. … Read More...
What is it like to be the non-musical parent of a budding musician? I couldn’t think of a better person to ask than my own amazing dad. Having attended countless violin recitals, orchestra concerts, and gigs, he’s been my number one supporter. A seasoned teacher and mentor, as well as a leader in his field, I decided to interview him to get his take on the world of music education.… Read More...
*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...
Have you ever wondered what music fiction is? Why would anyone write it? This week, I’m excited to be featured on author Deena Adam’s blog All Things Bookish. Enter her giveaway for a chance to win a FREE paperback copy of my book The Chronicles of Music Majors!
An author herself, Deena seeks out authors whose message is one of hope in spite of formidable circumstances.… Read More...
Have you ever wondered about the art of books? The cover, illustrations, aesthetic appeal? Check out this week’s interview with my recent cover designer, my cousin Heather Deiter.
1. Heather, can you tell us about your artistic background?
I’ve been interested in it since I was a little kid. I wanted to recreate what I saw in the world, and I spent time developing those skills.… Read More...
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...
Concerts and auditions are coming back, and I have the perfect solution to get you, or your students, in peak performance state!
This past week, I had the privilege of chatting with one of my wonderful colleagues and fellow Francophile violinist, Dr. Renée-Paule Gauthier. I have loved listening to her delightful Mind over Finger podcast for the past year, and have attended several practice workshops in her Facebook Group.… Read More...
This week, I was thrilled to be featured on Andrea Miller’s podcast: Music Studio Startup, one of the best resources for music teachers! Her material is always so helpful for me as I run my violin studio, and I highly recommend that you listen to her content! She also offers several music business courses for teachers.… Read More...
Have you ever wondered what goes on behind the scenes of touring artists? Are you a musician with a love of all things tech? Check out this interview I conducted with my cousin Shawn Sullivan while he was on tour hiatus in 2020. Great news, he is now on tour again in 2021!… Read More...
*Research from the Enneagram Institute
Fives are alert, insightful, and curious. They are able to concentrate and focus on developing complex ideas and skills. Independent, innovative, and inventive, they can also become preoccupied with their thoughts and imaginary constructs. They become detached, yet high-strung and intense. They typically have problems with eccentricity, nihilism, and isolation.… Read More...
Hymn: I Know that My Redeemer Lives
I know that my Redeemer lives;
What comfort this sweet sentence gives!
He lives, He lives, who once was dead;
He lives, my ever-living Head.
He lives to silence all my fears,
He lives to wipe away my tears,
He lives to calm my troubled heart,
He lives all blessings to impart.… Read More...
Johann Sebastian Bach was born March 31, 1685. As one of the most prolific and renowned composers of all time, I figured today we’d celebrate his legacy. I had the privilege of performing a couple of movements of his Sonata No. 3 in C Major.
Sadly, I never performed the infamously challenging Chaconne, but I can’t wait for Jennifer Roig Francoli’s upcoming recording of the beautiful work!… Read More...
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 anxious—running on stress while complaining about it.… Read More...
Do you want to start or improve your violin studio, but don’t know where to begin? On March 10, I’m sharing my Violin Studio 101 Course for FREE to my subscribers. Sign-up here, and you’ll receive a link to the course and eBook translations on release day. You can also sign-up by joining my What’sApp Group.… Read More...
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...
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 Crónicas de las Mayores de Música
Le Cronache delle Major Musicali
Original artwork by artist Heather Deiter.… Read More...
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...
A few months ago, I had the privilege of interviewing my own high school violin teacher, my aunt Valerie Sullivan, on this topic.
Over the course of her career, Valerie has served as a violin professor, strings sectionals coach for the youth symphony, orchestral musician, soloist, chamber musician, and private violin teacher.… Read More...
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...
Paul Hemenway was described in an Illinois Times news article as a “punk rock pastor.” Over the course of his career, he has always been dedicated to his faith, music, and service to others.
During the 1990s, he played in a the 8-piece punk rock band Black Happy. The group enjoyed reunion tours in both 2010 and 2018.… Read More...
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...
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...
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...
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...
Ever since I can remember, my mother would sing “O Holy Night” every year in our family Christmas shows. As a result, it has always been my favorite Christmas carol. Over the Thanksgiving holiday, I was honored to direct and produce a music video of this hymn in collaboration with my sister musical group Uptown Violins. … Read More...
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...
Now that Christmas season is here, I wanted to release the audiobook version of my previously published short story “Get a ‘Händel’ on It.”
Stay tuned next week for my newest short story, “Christmas Glee Club!”
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...
“Christmas is coming, the geese are getting fat. Please do put a penny in the old man’s hat. If you haven’t got a penny, a ha’penny will do, if you haven’t got a ha’penny, God bless you!”
-Traditional Christmas Carol
Fall has always been one of my favorite seasons. With Halloween, my November birthday, Thanksgiving, and my daughter’s birthday, I always have so much to celebrate!… Read More...
“… I don’t want Amati, a Stainer or a toy. I want a Stradivarius to play with and enjoy. I want a Stradivarius for Christmas. Only a Stradivarius will do. No French Vuillaumes, or Guarneriuses. I only like, Stradivariuses. And Stradivariuses like me too!”
If you know anything about violins, you’re probably aware you can’t go wrong in buying your sweetheart violinist a Stradivarius for Christmas.… Read More...
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...
“Death at midnight plays a dance-tune, zig, zig, zig, on his violin.”
“Danse Macabre” by Henri Cazalis (French symbolist poet: 1840-1909)
The haunting month of Halloween is upon us, and I couldn’t help but revisit my favorite ghostly violin music. Over the past couple of centuries the violin has had it’s bout with the devil, from Berlioz’ Symphanie Fantastique (1830) and Saint-Saëns’ Danse Macabre (1874), to Mussorsky’s Night on Bald Mountain.… Read More...
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...
A little late on the draw, but I had to jump on the internet bandwagon and create a tier list, this one based on my favorite (and a couple of not-so-favorite) composers.
Who would you put at the top? And at the bottom? Check out this tier list for my answers!… Read More...
“Chamber Music— a conversation between friends.” –Catherine Drinker Bowen
One of the advantages to being a professional violinist is its variety! I love to learn new material, explore multiple genres, and uncover old gems from centuries past. I enjoy playing in a variety of capacities, whether as a soloist or as a member of small ensembles.… Read More...
Check out the music playlist!
Freshman bassoonist Adam Heckel faces hazing in the music fraternity at Belton University while organist Miguel Guzmán 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...
“Everything living has a rhythm. Do you feel your music? ”-Michael Jackson
As a violin instructor of many young children, I believe it is important to use resources that appeal to the age demographic I teach. In addition to the resources I mentioned in my previous post, I use The Rhythm Train books with my young protégés.… Read More...
While most people find it daunting to motivate even one child to practice regularly, my mother Allison managed to motivate all four of my sisters and me to practice nearly every day from the age of 3 until we went to college, all of us with violin scholarships in hand. As the mother of a budding music student myself, I wanted to find out her tricks of the trade, not just as a professional violin teacher, but also as a busy mom, with all of the responsibility that entails!… Read More...
In this post, I’m thrilled to feature my uncle and aunt, fellow music educators Philip and Kim Parker! Visit their site at philipparkercomposer.com.
Phil, as a professor of music, what is the best advice you offer to students who want to pursue a career in music?… Read More...
Build your own little violin! This craft works great for teachers as well as parents of young students. It can also just be a fun introduction to musical instruments.
Prospective students are usually anxious to get started on the real violin, but often they’re not ready.… Read 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 Kimble’s 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...
Check out my favorite beginning violin books! My primary method is the Suzuki Method, which emphasizes aural training and imitates language learning. In graduate school, I took a couple of linguistics classes on Second Language Acquisition, which further reminded me of Suzuki’s genius to combine these principles with music education.… Read More...
“Where can I buy a violin?” students often ask. My answer is usually threefold.
Local Strings Shop
Please don’t buy from Amazon for an acoustic (not as good of quality)
As students get more advanced, they can always try out violins from other string shops as well.
Don’t forget to check their size!… Read More...
Whether you’re a veteran music teacher or just starting your studio, it’s important to consider the nuts and bolts of your business. These are the “who, what, where, when, how” questions about your studio. Those of us who’ve been in the business for awhile know several of the traps people can fall into in a small business, so it’s best to address these issues before they even start.… Read More...
Whether you’re a veteran music teacher or just starting your studio, it’s important to consider the nuts and bolts of your business. These are the “who, what, where, when, how” questions about your studio. Those of us who’ve been in the business for awhile know several of the traps people fall into, so it’s best to address these issues before they even start.… Read More...
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...
“For I assure you, without travel, at least for people from the arts and sciences, one is a miserable creature!” -Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart
Wow, this quote really hits home after everyone was literally stuck at home for at least two months! I’m afraid that, like Mozart, the travel bug runs in my family.… Read More...
Random fact: I majored in violin performance for undergrad, but I got my Master’s Degree in French Literature. A bit of a shift in areas of specialization, I know, but both disciplines have shaped who I am today.
The French are a philosophical bunch.… Read More...
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, I’m honored to talk with my own Grandmother, Ruth Scheer.
Grandma, how did you begin your writing career?… Read More...
Mother of ten, grandmother, great-grandmother, fellow musician, and author, this larger-than-life person has inspired so many people over the course of nearly a century. Today, I’m honored to talk with my own Grandmother, Ruth Scheer.
Grandma Ruth, how did you develop an interest in music?
I discovered music for myself when I was about eight years old.… Read More...
“O say does that star-spangled banner yet wave, o’er the land of the free and the home of the brave?” –Francis Scott Key
Happy Independence Day! Growing up, I loved celebrating the 4th of July with my family. We had a great view of fireworks from our elevated back porch, so we often invited other family members to our house.… Read More...
Chenoa Alamu resides in Springfield, is a violinist in the Illinois Symphony Orchestra, Peoria Symphony Orchestra, and the Decatur-Millikin Symphony Orchestra. She teaches violin and viola privately, and is a Starter Strings Teacher through the Sangamon Valley Youth Symphony programs and Springfield Public School District #186.… Read More...
After nearly a decade of running my own studio, I decided to re-examine my studio and methods, taking a good look at which techniques I’ve found successful, and which areas leave room for improvement.
Rather than reinvent the wheel, I want to share the resources that have been most beneficial to me over the years.… Read More...
Alyssa Hunt is the songwriter, singer, composer and co-producer of all Ascending Music. Inspired by artists such as Steffany Gretzinger, Björk and Sade, she allows her faith to reflect in her words, creating a sort of lounge effect. She also writes short stories under the pen name A. Renee Hunt.… Read More...
This spring, several of my students have graduated from their Suzuki Books. They’ve put their quarantine time to good use by practicing their instruments.
During the normal academic year, students become bogged down by the demands of school and other extra curricular activities, and often their music practice suffers.… Read More...
“I am not the same, having seen the moon shine on the other side of the world.” – Mary Anne Radmacher
A few years ago, several members of my family had the opportunity to conduct a music camp at St. Mary Kevin Orphanage and Primary School in Kajjansi, Uganda, a suburb of the capital city Kampala.… Read More...
Vicky Weber is a musician and an elementary educator with a love for children’s 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...
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...
I don’t want this music to die. The older people are passing it on to the younger generation so the younger generation can pass it on to the next generation.
-Vy Higginsen
I hope that all of you moms enjoyed Mother’s Day this past weekend. As a mother of two young children myself, I am fascinated by the family life of composers.… Read More...
“An hour of hard practice is worth five hours of foot-dragging.”
-Pancho “Segoo” Segura
Cinco de Mayo is here, and although we may not be able to eat at our favorite Mexican restaurants this year, we can still order takeout!
I had the privilege of collaborating with Paris-residing Mexican composer Esteban Zuñiga, recording with him and giving the premier of his excellent work for violin and piano based on Proverbs 19 in both the United States and in Paris, France.… Read More...
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...
My short story “Get a ‘Händel’ 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...
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...
“All music is folk music. I ain’t never heard a horse sing a song.”
-Louis Armstrong
It’s April Fools Day! We could all use a laugh, now more than ever. Classical musicians like to play practical jokes as much as anyone, and several composers even wrote jokes into their works.
Joseph Haydn (1732-1809) composed two works in particular that have entertained audiences for centuries with their humorous nature.… Read More...
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...
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...
In addition to virtual lessons, I am offering my students a virtual practice contest to keep them motivated/practicing during this unusual time!
1. Set up a Facebook Group or Zoom for your Studio families. (Or some other way for the studio members to communicate with each other.)
2. Group students into pairs.… Read More...
“Man cannot discover new oceans unless he has the courage to lose sight of the shore.” –André Gide
We live in an unusual time when one of our favorite pastimes, travel, isn’t a viable option. We can barely leave our homes, let alone travel abroad. During this time of confinement, I wanted to virtually relive my travel memories.… Read More...
As a violin teacher, one of my goals is to pass on my love of music to the next generation. My biggest inspiration, as both violin teacher and performer, is my own mother, Allison. Growing up, she taught my sisters and me how to play the instrument. When we were older, she taught us how to teach.… Read More...
At heart, she was a violinist. No other instrument, for her at least, could capture the strains of the soul’s deepest yearnings and desires, its bitterest disappointments and losses. – Tamera Alexander: A Note Yet Unsung (2017)
I first read Alexander‘s book shortly after its release in 2017 and loved it!… Read More...
It takes a special kind of person to be a music major. And when I say special, I mean you can’t be embarrassed to clap rhythms in the hallway, singing “Queen of the Night” in your dorm room (much to the chagrin of your roommate). Or you realize that you should have clarified whether your 9 o’clock lesson meant 9 a.m.… Read More...
Most little girls are enamored by ballet. My daughter certainly is! Nearly a year ago, she I had the opportunity to see Tchaikovsky’s ballet Sleeping Beauty performed live by a phenomenal group of dancers and musicians. I especially enjoyed hearing a friend of mine play the beautiful violin solos as the concertmaster of the pit orchestra.… Read More...
In recent years I have found the history of the violin quite fascinating. Here I look at a few of the precursors to the violin: the lyre, the rebab, the vielle, the rebec, the lyra family, and the viol family.
Ancient Greek lyre: Antiquity, c.14th century B.C.… Read More...
Happy Valentines Day! If you’re like me, you enjoy all things Romantic, and I’m not just talking about the musical time period! I recently read a post called “8 Things You Need to Know Before Dating an Organist,” which served as my inspiration for this post.
1. You’ll eat late: Dinner starts whenever we have finished teaching our students, practicing, or meeting with prospective clients.… Read More...
Valentine’s Day is just around the corner, bringing thoughts of love and warmth to our cold winter. The love story we look at today is not as warm, but its longevity has stood the test of time. Written at the end of the sixteenth century by William Shakespeare, Romeo and Juliet is arguably the most famous play of all time.… Read More...
Several years ago, I had the opportunity to perform a faculty recital entitled “An American Taste of Paris” at both the university where I taught and at the Fondation des Etats-Unis in Paris, France. The pianist, a Franco-American colleague of mine, introduced me to two short, relatively obscure French pieces—“Nocturne” (1911) and “Cortège” (1914), which captured my fancy. … Read More...
A fun, simple addition to your music studio this New Year is an abacus! I just purchased the GYBBER&MUMU Wooden Abucus although you could use any abacus you prefer. I wanted something students could use in order to count their violin drill passages. I liked the detachable one better than the other options because I can give a row containing 10 counting beads to each of my students.… Read More...
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.
I love my job as a professional violinist. I’ve played violin for as long as I can remember, and I can’t imagine life without it. The music profession is a unique lifestyle, one I often take for granted.
On this site, I want to share the joys and challenges that come with the territory.… Read More...