“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...

Paganini and Passion

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...

The Red Violinists

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...

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...

An Unexpected Heirloom

Grandfather Panter McIlvain’s fiddle

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...

The Scene You’ve Been Waiting For…

My husband and me at our rehearsal dinner

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...

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...

O Holy Night-Special Edition

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...

Flashback to my Senior Solo Concerto Competition: Saint-Saens Violin Concerto in B Minor, 1st Movement

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...

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?

My youngest sister and me as dueling violins at a talent show. I think she won!
Read More...

Chapter 9: The Halloween Concert

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!!!

Mom and 3 of her sisters

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...

Thank you!!

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...

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...

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...

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 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...